Higgins, Mohler top Senior Women's qualifying

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TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- U.S. Women's Mid-Amateur champion Joan Higgins and Noreen Mohler shot even-par 71s on Saturday to share the first-round lead in stroke-play qualifying for the USGA Senior Women's Amateur at Tulsa Country Club.

Higgins, 52, of Glendora, Calif., and Mohler, 54, are trying to earn spots in the 64-player match-play competition that will begin Monday.

"I'm a bit surprised," Higgins said. "My practice round was terrible. I felt so burned out. I was just hoping I'd break 80."

Four-time champion Carol Semple Thompson, 55, of Sewickley, Pa., opened with a 77. Defending champion Anna Schultz, 53, of Rockwall, Texas, shot a 79.