My new announcing spot

It was great to be back as the first major of the year’s 18th green announcer (although in a new spot-right next to the grandstand directly behind the green and not behind the bridge as in my first 5 years here).

And the LPGA tour couldn’t have asked for a better final pairing on Sunday with the popular two-some of Lexi Thompson and Michelle Wie taking their 10 under par totals onto the Dinah Shore course at 2:01 (pacific time) for a chance to leap into Poppy’s Pond at the end of the 43rd Kraft Nabisco Championship.

After Lexi’s 3 under par 68, she graciously gave me a few minutes to react to the possibility of her first major championship on her favorite course on tour.

Lexi’s 80 foot birdie putt on 18 was a tough finish to a great day.

Lexi Thompson with Ted Sobel:

After Wie’s 4 under 67 and her post-round newsconference, I asked Michelle for a quick interview but as she put it…”I can’t now, I have to pee”. And I looked at her funny when she quickly stated—“Drug test”! She was randomly chosen to take one, so I certainly understand that. Hopefully all is good in the specimen cup and we’ll see her go for her first major tomorrow.

Wie finishing up on 18 right in front of me

I told Michelle at Tuesday night’s Pro-Am pairing party that I tend to be good luck with those who take a picture with me there….and look at her now! 😉

(photo courtesy of Paul Lester)

Sitting only 2 shots back are Hall of Famer Se Ri Pak (who needs to win tomorrow to complete the career Grand Slam) and her playing partner the impressive 18 year old Brit Charlie Hull. Hope to see you out here before I leave for Augusta on Tuesday. FINALLY! 🙂