Pedersen Takes the Lead at Pelican Golf Club | LPGA

Emily Kristine Pedersen has emerged as the leader after 36 holes of The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican, marking the first time in her career that she has headed into the weekend at the top. The 27-year-old from Denmark was one shot behind the leader, Brooke Henderson, and tied with three other players after her impressive 63 in round one.

Starting on No. 10, Pedersen made a strong start with back-to-back birdies on the first two par 4s, moving to nine-under. She continued to maintain her position with two pars before picking up momentum once again by making three birdies over the last five holes on her front nine, including one on the par-5 No. 14. Pedersen ended the front nine at five-under par for the day and 12-under for the tournament. She extended her lead with another birdie on the par-4 1st but experienced some ups and downs, ending with bogeys on a few holes, balanced out by additional birdies.

Reflecting on her performance, Pedersen stated, “Obviously I started really well, 5-under on the front nine. Holed some good putts. I think the greens were so pure in the morning. Not that they weren’t this afternoon, but I had a few good rolls to start with. I think it got a little bit more windy out there and my back nine was not as I hoped. I hit a few uncommitted golf shots that I’m a little bit mad at myself about. I mean, that happens. Hopefully I can commit a bit more tomorrow and keep it going on the whole round.”

Pedersen finished the day with a 65 and a 36-hole total of 128, breaking her previous 36-hole scoring record by six strokes and setting a new record for this tournament. A win this week could greatly impact her position on the Race to CME Globe points list, potentially securing her a spot at the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship in Naples, Fla.

Japanese player Minami Katsu is just two shots behind Pedersen after shooting a second-round score of 67 at Pelican Golf Club. LPGA Rookie Jasmine Suwannapura sits in third place after a strong second round, while six players including Jin Young Ko are tied for fourth place.