Lauri Merten - Part 1 (The Early Years)

In this first installment of our four-part conversation with 1993 U.S. Women’s Open Champion Lauri Merten, we journey back to where it all began. A self-proclaimed “cheesehead” born in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Lauri shares her early memories of snowy winters, fried cheese curds, and a childhood move to Arizona that would unknowingly set her on the path to major championship glory.

Lauri opens up about a childhood shaped not by early athletic success, but by determination, resilience, and a tight-knit family. With heartfelt humor and humility, she recalls her initial forays into sports — including a memorable knee injury during a failed long jump attempt — and how golf became her sanctuary. A set of hand-me-down Patty Berg clubs and a desire to spend time with her father sparked a love for the game that would carry her to the top of women’s golf.

Listeners will hear about the summer golf school that transformed Lauri’s outlook, the strict (but loving) influence of her father, and how her shorter left leg created challenges — and ultimately forged a gritty, repeatable game that made her the “Trash Queen” on tour, getting up-and-down from everywhere.

Lauri’s authenticity shines as she reflects on meeting Bob and Dolores Hope, playing in celebrity pro-ams, and the powerful women who helped pave her way in the game. Her voice adds an intimate touch to a story that is both deeply personal and inspiring.

Join us as we uncover the roots of a U.S. Open champion — a story that’s as much about heart and perseverance as it is about fairways and greens.

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About

"FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.”

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