The Hanwha Lifeplus International Crown started on May 4. But before the event could begin, the LPGA Tour family lost one of its crucial family members. Loss is always tragic, it doesn’t matter if it is personal or professional. Sometimes the loss of a colleague can also feel like a loss of a family member.

The feeling that LPGA golfers, caddies, and other members carried in their hearts today was indeed a sad one. A sweet gesture was announced in order to honor and respect the life that the departed legend had lived. 

LPGA members remember a beloved member of the LPGA family

Dr. Bruce Thomas was appointed as the LPGA’s Medical Director in 2006. He had served in the position with utmost diligence and dedication. He has always been of great help and service to the LPGA players.

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Sadly, he passed away last Wednesday, May 3 after facing certain complications from his recent surgery. Many players and caddies gathered today to pay homage to his life and career. A video was shared on the official Twitter page of the LPGA Tour to do the same. 

“LPGA would like to recognize the life and career of Dr. Bruce Thomas. He was a treasured member of the LPGA family.”

Dr. Bruce Thomas was immensely caring and passionate about women’s golf and LPGA athletes. “His willingness to always provide quick assistance and guidance to member staff and those around the organization made him a highly valued colleague and friend to everyone at the LPGA,” spoke the announcer. 

In order to remember him and his life, players and caddies will be wearing red ribbons this week. The announcer also shared a joke about his love for Washington Nationals and choosing red ribbons. But she continued and laughingly spoke, “We are gonna forgive him for that.”

May the departed soul rest in peace.

The LPGA  Hanwha Lifeplus International Crown begins

The LPGA Tour moved to San Francisco to begin the Hanwha Lifeplus International Crown after 5 years. The event is a team match-play event that features the best golfers from eight countries in the world. 

Sweden was leading Group A with one victory each for the United States and China. Defending champions South Korea, was stunned by Australia in Pool B, while Japan was swept by Thailand.

Sweden’s Madelene Sagstrom and Maya Stark had beaten Liz Young and Alice Hewson from England by 5-4 in a four-ball competition. The Sweden team seized control early as Nordqvist started her day with three straight birdies giving the team a 3-up lead.

Which team do you think will win the International Crown event this year in California? Let us know in the comments below.

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