Michelle Wie to Compete in 2008 CN Canadian Women's Open

Ottawa, Ont. - CN and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) announced today that Michelle Wie has accepted a sponsor’s exemption and will be at Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club this August 11-17 to compete for the $2.25 million (US) CN Canadian Women’s Open.

The CN Canadian Women’s Open will be one of only six LPGA Tour events that Wie is eligible to compete in via sponsor exemptions during the 2008 season.  Her Canadian debut came at the 2007 CN Canadian Women’s Open at the Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton. 

One of the world’s most recognized international athletes, Wie began making headlines in 2002, competing in LPGA Tour events as a 12-year old.  Since turning professional in October of 2005, the 18-year old Hawaii native has amassed more than $775,000 (US) in LPGA Tour events.

“We are delighted to welcome Michelle Wie back to Canada for the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open,” said Sean Van Kesteren, Tournament Director, CN Canadian Women’s Open.  “Michelle’s global notoriety will no doubt attract a following at Ottawa Hunt and I’m sure golf fans will offer Michelle a tremendous welcome as she challenges the world’s best players.”

Wie joins an already impressive field that includes defending champion Lorena Ochoa, Annika Sorrenstam, Paula Creamer, Morgan Pressel, Suzann Pettersen, Meg Mallon, Cristie Kerr and Karrie Webb as well as Canadian notables Alena Sharp, Dawn Coe Jones and Lorie Kane.

The deadline for players to confirm their intention to compete at the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open in Ottawa is Tuesday, August 5.

The 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open will take place August 11-17 at the Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the club.  The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) has been designated as the official charity of the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open. 

Tickets for the 2008 CN Canadian Women’s Open can be purchased online at www.cncanadianwomensopen.com or by calling 1-866-571-LPGA.