Extra Points: Holmqvist maintains lead at ShopRite LPGA Classic

By DAVID WEINBERG

Dani Holmqvist has been toiling on the LPGA tour for almost a decade without much success, but the 35-year-old is 18 holes away from ending that slump at the ShopRite LPGA Classic.

Holmqvist, a nine-year LPGA tour veteran, shot a steady 4-under-par 67 in Saturday's second round at Seaview Hotel and Golf Club's Bay Course.  She is now at 11-under for the tournament and holds a one-shot lead over Hyo Joo Kim heading into Sunday's championship round.

"You know, it's always some nerves and stuff, but it was nerves in a good way (on Saturday)," Holmqvist said. "(Being in the lead) is a position you really want to be in; We work hard to be in (the lead).  I'm just going to try to stay in my own bubble and just try to execute as good as I can."

Ashleigh Buhai is currently third at 8-under, followed by six players at 7-under. Six more players, including two-time ShopRite Classic champion Anna Norqvist, trail Holmqvist by five shots at 6-under.

Defending champion Brooke Henderson is at 3-under after shooting a 1-under 70 Saturday and Seventy-three players made the cut at 1-over.

This marks the second time in her career that Holmqvist has led a tournament after 36 holes. She also led the AIG Women's Open in 2020 before finishing tied for 29th in that 72-hole event.

"Well, I hope it turns out better (Sunday) than it did the last time," Holmqvist said with a laugh. "You know I think there are so many good and talented players in this field, and it's going to be low scores (Sunday).  Only thing I can do is try to do the best that I possibly can, and hopefully that's enough."