May 9, 2024 By Jim Downey 3 min read

Rachel Rohanna Virgili sliced out some time from her busy professional and family schedules, and she made the most of the day by qualifying for her fourth U.S. Women’s Open Tuesday at Shannopin Country Club.

The Waynesburg Central graduate finished first in the U.S. Women’s Open sectional qualifier on the Pittsburgh-area course in Ben Avon Heights with a two-round score of 2-under 140.

Rohanna shot 2-under 69 in the first round and even-par 71 in the final 18 holes for the spot in the national tournament to be held at Lancaster Country Club on May 28-June 2.

“I’m excited to be heading to Lancaster C.C. at the end of the month to play in my fourth U.S. Open!” said Rohanna, as she rushed off to get settled with her host family Wednesday afternoon before playing in the pro-am of the Carlisle Arizona Women’s Golf Classic in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Rohanna explored other sectional sites, notably in the western region, to better match her Epson Tour schedule. But, as those sites filled in, Rohanna opted to stay close to home despite the hectic travel schedule.

“Plus, any time I can be home (with her family), I’m happy,” said Rohanna.

Rohanna last played in the U.S. Women’s Open at the Country Club of Charleston in 2019. She also played in the USGA championship in 2013 at Sebonack Golf Club (NY) and in 2011 at The Broadmoor East Course in Colorado as an amateur.

Marissa Steen secured the second qualifying berth with a 1-under 141 (71-70). Amateurs Vanessa Borovilos (141) and Gianna Clemente (142) are the first and second alternates.

Rohanna had a strong start to her first round with a 32 on the front nine. She closed with 37 on the back. Rohanna started on the back in the second round with 36 and came back in 35.

“I played really solid over the 36 holes, but started off really hot,” said Rohanna. “I think I was 4-under through 12 holes and bogeyed my 17 and 18 (holes) to finish at 2-under for the first 18.

“I was hoping I’d start off No. 10 for my second 18 because I knew that 17 and 18 would be harder finishing holes. Luckily, I did, and just played solid golf for the back 18. I hit a lot of very good tee shots, some good wedges, and my short game around the green was solid. My putting was up and down, but I made a lot of very good saves coming in.”

The sectional qualifier was a family affair with her husband Ethan handling caddy duties and daughters Gemelia and Greenlee in attendance, under the watchful eyes of their grandparents.

“Ethan caddied the whole 36, and we stayed pretty calm and patient the whole day,” explained Rohanna. “Neither of us knew where we stood on the second 18 and I think that actually helped me a little.

“Typically, I’m a scoreboard watcher. I like to know where I stand and what I need to do. But, I told Ethan after about 27 holes that whatever happens, happens. I’m just enjoying playing good golf right now.”

Lancaster Country Club is about a four-hour drive from her home in Greene County, so Rohanna expects to have her family in attendance.

“I think the whole family will be heading to Lancaster. We’ll be juggling T-ball games, dance, and nap times, but we have such an amazing family and support group that makes us feel like we can accomplish it all,” said Rohanna, adding with emotion, “And, I’m very excited to be representing Western PA this year in Pennsylvania!”