The opening round of the ANNIKA Women’s All Pro Tour Coke Dr Pepper Open concluded Thursday, as 130 athletes teed it up at Links on the Bayou, competing for a share of the $57,500 purse.

Favorable early conditions helped set the tone, as players took advantage of calm weather and receptive greens, resulting in over 40 competitors finishing the day under par.

Leading the field is 23-year-old Caroline Smith of Inverness, Illinois, who carded an impressive 8-under-par round. The Indiana University graduate delivered a bogey-free performance, highlighted by a strong back nine that featured five birdies.

“My putter was hot. I definitely made a couple of bombs, which helped. My ball striking was good, and it was just a good day all around,” said Smith. “But honestly, I’ll probably head to the range after this and hit a few iron shots because they were a little iffy — but the putter came in hot.”

Just one shot behind is Taglao Jeeravivitaporn of Thailand at 7-under par, who also recorded a bogey-free round to stay firmly in contention.

The second round of the Coke Dr Pepper Open is set to begin today at 7:30 a.m., as players look to position themselves inside the cut line. The top 48 players and ties will advance, competing for a share of the purse, with $10,000 awarded to the tournament champion.

This marks the fourth year the ANNIKA WAPT has competed in Alexandria, where the event continues to provide opportunities for players to give back to the local community.

Earlier in the week, athletes volunteered at the Manna House, supporting the organization’s ongoing efforts of serving meals and helping those in need.

The athletes will also be competing for valuable points in the Callaway Race To Qualifying Standings – with 500 points awarded to the tournament champion.

For more information on the ANNIKA Women’s All Pro Tour or to follow live scoring, visit wapt.golf.