Barb Moxness made history once again at the U.S. Senior Women’s Open, becoming the oldest player to make the cut at age 72. The veteran golfer surpassed her own mark of 69, set in 2022, and did so at San Diego Country Club in Chula Vista.
Moxness carded a 2-under 71 in both the opening and third rounds, followed by a 79 in Round 2, leaving her in a share of ninth at 2 over heading into the final round. She sits six shots behind leaders who stand at 4 under.
This marks the seventh edition of the U.S. Senior Women’s Open for Moxness, whose best finish came in 2019 when she tied for seventh. An LPGA veteran who greeted the tour as a rookie in 1978, she attended Arizona State and San Diego State. In her early career she also worked as an occupational therapy aide at a children’s hospital in San Diego. A top-10 finisher in all four majors of her era, Moxness helped spark the tour’s Christian fellowship group and retired from the tour in 1986 to focus on family life as a stay-at-home mom.
“I’m so grateful,” Moxness said after twice breaking her age record in the same week. “I feel so blessed to be able to do that. It’s fun for me.” She added that maintaining physical and mental strength comes from a combination of faith, disciplined living, and staying active through eating well and regular workouts, acknowledging that aging brings fatigue but expressing gratitude for the ability to compete.
In the final round, Canada’s Corina Kelepouris, Sweden’s Maria McBride, and Wales’s Becky Morgan are at the top of the leaderboard at 4 under. LPGA and World Golf Hall of Famer Juli Inkster sits five back in a tie for sixth with former USSWO champions Trish Johnson and Leta Lindley, signaling what could be a thrilling finish.
Moxness’s enduring presence on the course is more than a statistical milestone; it’s a powerful example of longevity and determination that resonates with aspiring golfers of all ages. Her journey—from a practicing LPGA player to a longtime mentor and pioneer in the tour’s fellowship community—highlights how passion and discipline can sustain a lifelong athletic career.
Summary: A record-setting week for Barb Moxness culminates in a hopeful reminder that age is not a barrier to competing at a high level in golf. The final round promises to offer an inspiring chapter as seasoned competitors chase a breakthrough moment and new leaders emerge.
Commentary: Moxness’s story underscores the value of consistency, faith-driven motivation, and a healthy lifestyle in maintaining competitive form. Her example could inspire programs focused on senior athletes, showing that it’s possible to pursue peak performance later in life with the right support and mindset.