At Glance
‣ Angela Stanford is aiming to become the first LPGA Tour player to reach 100 consecutive starts at a Major championship, viewing this milestone as a potential end to her playing career.
‣ Stanford has had a successful career since turning professional in 2000, winning a Major championship, six regular tour titles, reaching World No. 9, and earning over $12 million, alongside representing her country in the Solheim Cup and Lexus Cup multiple times.
‣ Despite the challenges of maintaining physical fitness and the increasing difficulty of recovery with age, Stanford is motivated by the historic significance of reaching 100 consecutive Major starts, a feat only achieved by Jack Nicklaus, and is determined to try for it despite the uncertainties ahead.
Angela Stanford set to play in her 98th consecutive major. #roadto100
— Beth Ann Nichols (@GolfweekNichols)
Angela Stanford, with a gleam of determination in her eyes, believes she’s on the cusp of making history. She’s aiming to be the first LPGA Tour player to notch up 100 consecutive starts at a Major championship. Yet, she hints, reaching this milestone might just signal the end of her illustrious playing days.
In the heat of this week’s Chevron Championship, Stanford is teeing up for her 98th straight Major. She’s not just there to make up the numbers; she’s had top-five finishes in all five major events. And she’s gunning to outdo her T3 finish from 2011 at Mission Hills.
Since turning pro in 2000 and joining the LPGA Tour a year later, Stanford’s career has been nothing short of stellar. She’s clinched a Major championship, bagged six regular tour titles, hit World No. 9, and amassed over $12 million in career earnings. Not to mention, she’s donned the stars and stripes eight times across the Solheim Cup and Lexus Cup.
But, the crown jewel in her career? Her unbroken streak of Major appearances since the 2002 McDonald’s LPGA Championship. It’s a testament to her resilience, dodging injuries and bad luck with a little help from her trainer, Dan Riley.
Speaking of Dan, there’s a neat twist to his story. His dad worked for Chevron, and Dan himself benefited from a Chevron-funded scholarship as a kid. Fast forward, and he’s played a pivotal role in Stanford reaching her 98th consecutive major.
Stanford reflects on her journey with a mix of awe and gratitude. “It kind of seems like a dream sometimes,” she muses. Despite a major injury in 2018, she feels blessed. Her trainer, Dan, has been her rock since 2004, keeping her dream alive.
Holding the Evian Championship trophy in 2018, Stanford looked to the skies, perhaps pondering her place in the annals of golf history. She’s already surpassed Cristie Kerr’s 92 consecutive Majors. The thought of setting an all-time record? It’s something she’s mulled over, acknowledging the significance such a milestone would hold, not just for her but for any LPGA player.
Jack Nicklaus is the only other golfer to have achieved such a feat. Stanford is keenly aware of the history at her fingertips, grateful for Chevron’s role in her journey. With the U.S. Open qualifier looming, she’s not ready to stop at 98.
Yet, Stanford knows the clock is ticking. The recovery times are getting longer, and the game is demanding more from her body than ever before. She’s contemplating what’s next, with an eye on playing her favorite events this fall before possibly calling it a day.
Why does she keep pushing, especially when many of her peers have already hung up their clubs? It’s all about the magic number: 100. Last off-season, she faced a crossroads but chose to chase this historic milestone. The thought of stopping at 97? Unthinkable.
Her journey has been fueled by faith, determination, and a bit of luck. Despite setbacks, like a missed sponsor invite to Singapore, Stanford remained steadfast. She’s always been about giving her all until there’s nothing left. And for her, that “all” means reaching 100 consecutive Majors. It’s not just a number; it’s her finish line.
