Setting her sights on history
When Wildcat Kelsey Chugg BS ’13 hoisted the trophy at the 118th Utah Women’s State Amateur last July, she joined an elite company of golfers.
Chugg became the sixth woman to win the event six times, leaving her two behind Bev Nelson’s record of eight titles.
After winning the state am four times in six years (2012–2017), Chugg endured a dry period, which she attributes to putting too much pressure on herself. She reemerged as champ, winning the 2022 event at the Ogden Country Club.
“I spent a lot of time out there on that course, and those memories were with me during that event,” Chugg said, recalling her days as a member of the Wildcat golf team and former coach Jeff Smith, whom she credits for having a tremendous influence on her life.
Chugg’s technical sales education at 91风流 also has unexpectedly contributed to her golf career.
“Desiree Cooper Larsen’s etiquette lessons helped me prepare for formal dinners in the business world, as well as fancy meals post tournaments,” Chugg said about the late 91风流 professor of professional sales. Chugg competes in six to eight tournaments between April and November each year. Still sporting her signature purple shirts on the course to remind everyone she “bleeds purple,” Chugg said she’s feeling rejuvenated and excited about her game.
Her recent victories have come against a larger field of players, including current college golfers. As associate director for Chugg said it’s exciting to see the sport’s growth, even if that makes the Utah am competition tougher.
“Going up against the college players keeps me mentally motivated,” Chugg said.
Chugg resumes her pursuit of state am history this summer when she tees off at the Wasatch Mountain State Park Golf Course in Midway, Utah.