Hall-of-Famer Karrie Webb Returns to Familiar Territory This Week at the ShopRite LPGA Classic

By Carson Racich

 

GALLOWAY, N.J. – Hall-of-Famer Karrie Webb, reminisced fondly about her many rounds of golf, celebrated victories, and the unwavering support from a community that has become like a second home at Seaview. Her return to LPGA Tour competition and the ShopRite LPGA Classic has stirred excitement and sentimentality for both her and her fans.

 

"It's always fun to come back to ShopRite and Seaview Resort. I always have a lot of memories, friends, and family that come and watch," Webb shared.

 

Webb's connection to the course and community is deep-rooted. Since joining the Tour, the ShopRite LPGA Classic has been a constant stop on her schedule, thanks to the mutual loyalty and respect developed over the years among sponsors and the Tour.

 

"The community has always supported this event, so it is always nice to come back, you know, to a sponsor that has supported the LPGA Tour since I've been on it. It's great," she said.

 

As a past champion of the ShopRite LPGA Classic, Webb noted that her bond with the tournament grew significantly after her victory in 2013.

 

"I think after I won in 2013, the fondness with the staff here at the Seaview and the tournament staff went up a notch. I get treated like a local," Webb recounted with a smile.

 

Preparing for her return at this year's tournament, Webb reflected on the memories that stood out the most aside from her 2013 victory. The ShopRite LPGA Classic has always been more than just a competition; it was a gathering of loved ones.

 

"I think since I've had so many friends and family travel to watch this event, that's my fondest memory. It’s getting to catch up with people I don't always see very often," Webb said. "All the Aussies got together for dinner the other night. It was great."

 

Webb's return was met with an outpouring of support from fans, both at the course and on social media.

 

"It's nice to feel the love about coming back. I think that's why I've never said the 'R' [retirement] word, because every once in a while, I get the itch to compete," she admitted.

 

The competitive spirit that drove her to greatness still flickered, urging her to test her skills against the younger generation.

 

"I still like to see what I have left in the tank. When I practice and show a little bit of form, I think, 'Oh, maybe I’ll go and play.'"

 

Her primary motivation for participating in a few events this year was clear. Both a test to herself, but also a destination.

 

"I think the main reason I'm playing a few events through the summer is that I wanted to play in The Open Championship at St. Andrews in August," Webb revealed.

 

The history of the Old Course at St. Andrews, with its rich traditions and challenging layout, was too strong to resist. It was a venue she held in high regard, despite never quite mastering its intricacies, but she was determined to go back.

 

"I just think St. Andrews and the Old Course is such a magical place," she mused. "I just love everything about being there, from the town to the course."

 

Despite stepping away from regular competition, Webb has taken on the significant role of mentor to many younger players. Her role as a mentor to Australian players like Hannah Green brought her immense satisfaction.

 

"It's been really special and rewarding for me just to be a small part of their careers," Webb said.

 

Webb’s voice filled with pride as she expressed that watching these young players succeed, knowing she had played a part in their journey, was a source of immense joy for her.

 

"I’m a wreck watching live scoring and the telecasts," Webb laughed. "I feel like their big sister, I guess, but I now know what my parents went through while they watched me live all those years."

 

As the tournament approaches, Webb was filled with anticipation and gratitude. Her journey back to the ShopRite LPGA Classic was not just about competing; it was about reconnecting with a place and people integral to her career. Whether or not she claims another victory, her presence alone is a celebration of her enduring legacy and the timeless spirit of golf.