For One L.P.G.A. Golfer, a million dollar prize is worth the pain

Tempo, whose course is reminiscent of someone walking barefoot over rocks, was five laps shorter than the Aon minimum that entered its most recent start at the Portland Classic in Oregon at the end of August. She played the first 36 holes in 11 under par while she usually took half swings with her driver to protect her injured back. She was in fourth place over the weekend – fully aware that a top 3 finish would make her way to the lucrative, limited field events in Asia for which she is not yet qualified.

She played the last 36 holes in eight over par and finished in 57th place – but somehow stayed on top of the Aon Challenge position. Pace's plan was to play in the last two events in the United States before the tour moves to Asia, starting with this week's Indianapolis tournament.

Her body had other plans.

"Unfortunately, playing four rounds in Portland has done more damage," says Pace, who adds, "I don't think it's wise to play two more events with a back injury."

During the three weeks of September that the LPGA tour was on break for the Solheim Cup, Pace returned to her part-time stay in France, where she was diagnosed with a spinal disorder, Maignes Syndrome, which is characterized by problems with turning the torso without much discomfort.

Crossing continents demand the body in the best conditions.But with Pace in severe pain and the failure of her game, the decision to open the Indianapolis tournament this week "Resting to rest easier.

" If you don't play well, it doesn't really make sense to keep it, & Pace said. "I feel like I can do much more with my life now, almost 40, than to keep traveling and be away from my family."

Tempo grew up in wine country, in Paarl, in the West The province of Cape, and although she rarely returns during the season because it is too far to travel during her free weeks, it is never far from her head . Pace & # 39; s sister, Krog, had her first child this year, a daughter named Cara, who described Pace as "the light of my life".