Oklahoma member — a woman — qualifies for Canadian men’s professional golf tour

Isabelle Beisiegel

For the first time, a woman has earned a playing card on a men’s professional golf tour, The Associated Press reports.
That woman: Isabelle Beisiegel, a member of the Broken Arrow Church of Christ in Oklahoma.
The AP reports:

The 32-year-old Montreal native finished equal ninth Friday in the Canadian Professional Golf Tour’s Spring Qualifying School to take one of the last two nonexempt spots.
Beisiegel had a 4-under 68 in the third round, then closed with a 75 in rainy conditions to finish at 8-over 296. She opened with rounds of 75 and 78.
“I still can’t believe it. It’s a little overwhelming,” Beisiegel said. “I went into today just trying not to get ahead of myself. I focused on thinking about where I was and not what could happen. I was assured in the fact that no matter what happened it was going to be OK.”

Tim Pyles, the Broken Arrow church’s preaching minister, describes Beisiegel, who played collegiate golf at the University of Oklahoma, and her husband, Daniel, as “wonderful people.”
Pyles said “Izzy,” as she is known, gave up the LPGA tour for a time because of Graves’ disease. She had her thyroid removed and is playing on the LPGA Futures tour.
In a blog post, Beisiegel recounts her heartwrenching journey and gives God the credit for her accolades:

This was the best golf of my life. Can I take credit for this? Did I deserve it? I just can’t say yes to those questions. I have been told I should take more pride in my accomplishment – but it isn’t mine to boast! I know with certainty that it was beyond my “physical” ability. Anyone who has played with me and seen me miss 2 footers knows it. I am so thankful for that, because confidence in myself is so temporary and fleeting, and would only ultimately end in disappointment.
I know God’s love is enough, and that tournament results can never give me the joy and hope and purpose that I have in Him.

• Feedback
  Izzy is truly an inspiration, a testimony to the power of prayer, and an encouraging example of persistence in the midst of hardships and setbacks. She shares her faith openly and enthusiastically with others, always giving glory to God. The light of Christ shines brightly through her on the Futures Tour and now on the Canadian Tour. She and Daniel are a blessing to all who know them!

  Tim Pyles

  June, 1 2011

  Wonderful News! So good to hear when women have the courage to participate in a healthy sport and accomplish. Congratulations!!!

  Gerri Means

  June, 1 2011

  Blessing as you go its a David in the ring, so hit hard , i am happy for her .
  Nate.

  Nate

  June, 6 2011

  my ambition was to play professional golf. however, the Lord led me into golf teaching and other adventures. it is wonderful knowing that a sister in the Lord is also a “fella” golf lover. i hope you have many wins and win many to the Lord. mary

  mary belle patchell

  June, 6 2011

  Keep up the good work, my sister, you are such an inspiration. May God continue to bless you and your family!

  Akeisha

  June, 12 2011