Harper McClard recently etched her name into Cape Central High history as the first female Tiger golfer to qualify for state. The CHS junior took the time to answer a few questions for us as she prepares to travel to Springfield, Missouri, to play in the 36-hole state tournament beginning October 21st.
How old were you when you started playing golf, and how did you start?
I was 11 when I started playing golf. I got into the sport because of COVID; the only place open was the TeeHouse driving range, so that is when my dad started teaching me to play. Now I take lessons with Jake Seabaugh at that same driving range.
What do you like most about playing golf?
The thing I like most about golf is that it gives me the opportunity to play on many beautiful courses and meet some amazing people. The most challenging part about golf is the mental game; if you think too much about it and get into your own head, you just won't play well.
What does it mean to you to become the first Lady Tiger to play in the State Golf Tournament?
Being the first female Tiger golfer to qualify for state has been extremely exciting, especially because I have worked so hard in my off-season to get to where I am now. For the last two years, I have barely missed the cutoff for state, and this year I told myself over and over again, "This is the year."
What other clubs or activities are you involved in?
Golf eats up most of my free time, but I am also a part of the Beta Club, play in a Thursday night ladies' league at the Cape Girardeau Country Club, and am the youngest golfer in the league.
What would you like to tell other students who are interested in playing golf but haven't?
If someone is interested in playing golf, I would definitely say to go for it because golf is not only rewarding, but it is also a sport you can play for the rest of your life.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am also looking forward to meeting all the rising female golfers who will join our team in the coming years.
Congratulations, Harper! We're so proud of you and will be cheering you on at STATE!
