Emma Talley has two more days to make birdies for her hometown.
Talley recorded six birdies on Friday and will play the weekend in Florida after carding a 4-under-par 68 in the second round of the Gainbridge LPGA in Boca Raton, Fla.
That put the former Caldwell County High School and University of Alabama star at even par overall through 36 holes after a 4-over 76 in the first round on Thursday.
Talley not only got in under the cutline, but is tied for 49th entering third round action on Saturday. (The top 70 and ties advance to the final two rounds.)
The Princeton native said on social media before the Gainbridge LPGA started at Boca Rio Golf Club that she was playing this week for those affected by last month’s devastating tornado.
“As much I am thankful to play golf for a living the best part is being able to use my platform to help others. This week I am #PrincetonStrong. My hometown of Princeton, Kentucky, got hit by the tornado in December right before Christmas. This week I am playing for my friends and family who lost everything.
“Every birdie I make I will be donating to our local Chamber of Commerce through the GoFundMe page in my bio. If you feel lead to follow along with my birdies this week and donate yourself it would be greatly appreciated. I am so thankful for my hometown and hate to see it in so much pain. Now let’s make some birdies yall!”
Talley can almost drive a golf ball from the backyard of the home she grew up in — just off the Princeton Golf Club course — to where the tornado tore through the neighborhood.
She has made eight birdies so far through the first two rounds in this week’s LPGA Tour event.
Talley will tee off in the third round at 7:43 a.m. Eastern time on Saturday. One of her playing partners will be former Alabama teammate Stephanie Meadow. Joining them will be Kelly Tan of Malaysia.
GoFundMe link:
