Golf | IMG Academy's Rino Sasaki qualifies for Guardian Retirement Championship

MANATEE -- Rino Sasaki of IMG Academy in Bradenton made birdies on four of her final five holes to post a 72 to qualify for the Symetra Tour's 2016 Guardian Retirement Championship. Sasaki's score was the lowest of the 14 amateurs in the local qualifier on Monday at Sara Bay Country Club.

Sasaki, 17, came to IMG Academy from Mexico two years ago. She was born in Japan.

"I actually began a little slow today, I was a couple over early," explained Sasaki. "I wasn't really on it and then I talked with my caddie and just settled down and brought it back together. I made four birdies in a row on the back nine and that was the key."

Sasaki birdied holes 14 through 17 before a par to close on the 18th. She will play in her first professional tournament this week.

"I'm very nervous, but I'm really looking forward to playing in the event," said Sasaki. "I just want to play well, have fun and learn from better players."

Sasaki will join the field of 144 that begins play on Friday. Final-round play is scheduled for Sunday.

This story was originally published April 18, 2016 at 11:52 PM with the headline "Golf | IMG Academy's Rino Sasaki qualifies for Guardian Retirement Championship ."