Three Massachusetts natives will tee off at the second annual FM Championship at TPC Boston this week, returning to their home state for a high-stakes event that promises plenty of local buzz.
From Rockland, Megan Khang is joined by Westborough’s Alexa Pano and Shrewsbury’s Brittany Altomare for the tournament, which runs August 28-31. Khang, an FM ambassador, is aiming to improve on her 35th-place finish from last year’s event, while Pano looks to rebound after missing the cut following Round 2 in 2023. Altomare, who took time away from competition in 2024 after welcoming her son Wyatt in March, is excited to compete before a home crowd and reconnect with family and friends.
“I was sad to miss the first year last year, but I’m really excited to play this year and to see a bunch of family and friends and to play in front of a home crowd,” Altomare told Golf Week, adding that the experience should be a lot of fun.
For Khang, returning to her home state is a bright spot, and she’s hopeful for a stronger showing than last year. “I think the first season was the scariest. You never know what to expect,” Khang said. “I hope to do well, hope to raise the trophy at the end of the week.”
The FM Championship is scheduled for late August in Norton, Massachusetts, with a purse of 4.1 million dollars, up from 3.8 million in 2024, signaling growing depth and prize money as the event continues to establish itself on the LPGA Tour.
What to watch:
– Home-field advantage: The three Massachusetts players will have strong local support as they navigate the TPC Boston track.
– Comebacks and momentum: Altomare’s return after maternity leave adds an uplifting storyline; Khang’s renewed focus to climb higher in the standings; Pano’s aim to build on her experience at this event.
– Competitive field: A larger purse could heighten pressure and elevate performances throughout the four-day tournament.
Summary: With three hometown stars in the field and a bigger prize on the line, the FM Championship at TPC Boston shapes up as a compelling showcase of resilience and local pride, as these first-term players look to translate their momentum into a breakthrough week on home soil.
Commentary: Local fan support can be a meaningful edge, especially for players balancing family and professional ambitions. If these three can leverage the crowd and stay steady under pressure, this event could become a breakout week for one or more of them on the LPGA Tour. Positive trajectory for Massachusetts women’s golf is evident as the tournament grows.