February 21, 2005
2001 graduate Liz Uthoff Alum competing in Golf Channel reality show
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Uthoff, who earned her bachelor's degree in animal science production in 2001, now is vying for a spot on a much larger venue — the LPGA, or Ladies Professional Golf Association, tour. She is one of 10 contestants in The Golf Channel's reality show, "Big Break III – Ladies Only," which debuted earlier this month.
Winning the competition means an exemption to select LPGA events.
Uthoff, 25, is a golf instructor at Norwood Hills Country Club in St. Louis.
Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Va., was the site of the competition and filming of the 10 episodes last October. New episodes air to an international television audience at 8 p.m. each Tuesday through April 26, and are shown during the week. The prior week's episode airs each Tuesday at 7 p.m.
The next segment airs at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22.
The women compete in a series of physically demanding and mentally challenging tasks that results in the elimination of one golfer each week. The series includes best ball, match- and stroke play, putting events and skills competitions.
Uthoff avoided possible elimination in last week's show when her flop shot from 25 yards away landed closer than another competitor's effort.
The key is playing the game within the game of golf, according to Matt Friedman, The Golf Channel's public relations manager.
"You are going to see a lot of great golf and compelling television," he said. "That is one of the things that has made the Big Break series the most successful original programming we have done in our 10 years."
Uthoff says in her show biography she hopes to win Big Break III to avoid pressures of the LPGA Qualifying School.
Uthoff started in golf when she was five years old. She rose through the ranks of junior golf and helped her St. Joseph Academy High School team win state titles in 1995 and 1996, and was a state medalist in 1996.
This is the third "Big Break," series produced by The Golf Channel. More information on "Big Break III – Ladies Only," is available at http://www.thegolfchannel.com/23239/3644