Pregnant Matthew wins HSBC LPGA Brazil Cup

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – Catriona Matthew, the 39-year-old Scot five months pregnant with her second child, won the inaugural HSBC LPGA Brazil Cup by five shots over Kristy McPherson of the United States on Sunday.
 
Matthew had a 3-under 69 on the second day of the 36-hole exhibition tournament to finish at 6-under 138 at the Itanhanga Golf Club. McPherson was 1-under after shooting a 72.
 
“When you play well you don’t feel tired,” Matthew said. “Maybe tomorrow I will feel it a bit.”
 
She started her final round with a birdie at the first hole and a bogey on the second, but built her lead with birdies on Nos. 5, 6 and 14.
 
McPherson had four birdies and four bogeys in her round, with two of the bogeys coming on par-5s.
 
Angela Park finished third in front of her home fans after a 75 left her nine shots back.
 
“I’m not too happy,” she said. “I thought I would be able to play better here.”
 
Laura Diaz shot a 73 to finish fourth at 4-over.
 
The unofficial money event featured a 15-player field and a $500,000 purse.