For Hawaii native Mariel Galdiano, life as a full-time professional golfer means less in-person family time than she’d like. And while her primary support system is always a phone call away, it can be hard to be separated from those who love and support her the most.
But next week, at the U.S. Women’s Open presented by Ally, Galdiano will have a unique opportunity to have her family on-site, following her rounds at Lancaster Country Club on foot instead of online and cheering for her right outside the ropes in Pennsylvania.
“It’s really special to have them out there in person,” said Galdiano. “It's different when you have them just texting you good luck versus them actually walking all 18 holes and being there every step of the way.”
Galdiano will once again compete against fellow Hawaiian and U.S. Women’s Open defending champion, Allisen Corpuz. The duo goes way back, growing up together and playing on the same high school team, making Galdiano much prouder of Corpuz after becoming a Rolex First-Time Winner at the major championship.
“It was amazing to watch Allisen win the U.S. Women’s Open last year. I had chills watching her stay composed on the last day to get the job done and win the title,” said Galdiano. “We grew up playing on the same high school team together, so we’ve known each other for a long time. She’s always been a great competitor and person since we were young, so it’s amazing to see her accomplish something we all dreamed of when we all started golf.”
Corpuz’s victory was one for all of Hawaii and has motivated Galdiano to make an impact in a similar way. Competing in a U.S. Women’s Open is already a special opportunity, but to be one of two Hawaiians in this year’s field is something the 25-year-old will never forget.
“It is such an honor to compete in any USGA event, but this year it feels even more special since the defending champion is from Hawaii,” said Galdiano. “It showcases the talent that comes from the islands and shows people back home that when you work hard and chase your dreams, they can become a reality.”
In her third year on the Epson Tour, the former UCLA Bruin has found ways to find home while on the road. Outside of her family, Galdiano misses Hawaiian food the most and is always looking for the best restaurants at which to get it.
“Number one is food. I love poke,” said Galdiano. “So that's always the first thing I try to look for when I'm out here on the road.”
With just days until the 25-year-old tees it up for her sixth U.S. Women’s Open, Galdiano has reflected on her last stretch of Epson Tour tournaments and is happy with the results. She has made three out of four cuts, with a best result of second place at the Carlisle Arizona Women’s Golf Classic.
“I feel like it was a long time coming. In Tucson, I felt like my game wasn't where it was. I knew a lot of better golfers out there,” said Galdiano following her runner-up showing in Arizona. “Same thing in Beaumont. I came off of playing a U.S. Open qualifier, so I think I was pretty tired there. I'm happy to see where I am on the leaderboard.”
Galdiano is currently 12th in the Epson Tour’s Race for the Card standings and is one of 16 members to qualify for the 2024 U.S. Women’s Open presented by Ally. With her game trending in the right direction and the momentum of having her support system walking alongside her, the Hawaiian will be a storyline to follow at Lancaster Country Club.
)
)
)
)
