When you grow up dreaming of LPGA stardom, you imagine the bright lights, the big crowds, and the pressure of a final-round putt. But for Alexandra Swayne, this week's Kroger Queen City Championship comes with something even more valuable than a trophy—a serious home-field advantage.
The Kings High School graduate and Maketewah Country Club member is trading her usual routine for a once-in-a-lifetime moment this week. Before she tees it up on familiar fairways, the Cincinnati native will take the mound at Great American Ball Park for a ceremonial first pitch before the Reds take on the Nationals. It's a switch that has her feeling a little less confident than her usual driver swing.
"We did some practice last night," Swayne said with a laugh. "My dog was confused why we were using one of his toys to practice. I'm interested to see what my form will be. As long as I get it to the plate, I'll be fine."
Throwing strikes from a baseball mound might be unfamiliar territory, but playing Maketewah? That's second nature. While most of the LPGA field is scrambling to learn the classic Donald Ross layout during practice rounds, Swayne arrives armed with years of course knowledge that could prove to be her secret weapon.
"I know the subtle breaks. I know how to play certain holes. I know which ones are birdie holes, which ones will be bogeys and you just have to walk away and be happy that you got a bogey," Swayne explained. "There is a huge advantage of already being 100 rounds in versus some of the girls just doing two or three practice rounds."
The Ladies European Tour player knows every inch of Maketewah, from the grounds crew to the pro shop staff. She's dialed in on the sightlines, the danger zones, and the strategy that makes this course a true test of skill. With thick rough waiting to swallow errant drives and lightning-fast greens that make downhill putts a heart-stopping challenge, course knowledge isn't just helpful—it's essential.
"It's a Donald Ross course, so he knows what he's doing," Swayne said, acknowledging the legendary architect's reputation for crafting layouts that reward precision over power.
As the Kroger Queen City Championship gets underway, all eyes will be on Swayne to see if her hometown edge translates into low numbers on the leaderboard. One thing's for sure: whether she's throwing out a first pitch or draining a birdie putt, this Cincinnati native is ready for her close-up.