Playing key roles in the public team's convincing win over the private team in last weekend's Atlas Trophy matches were Plymouth sophomore Kelsey Murphy (bottom row, second from left) and Salem graduate Ashley Smith (back row, far right).

Pair of local players help public team capture Atlas Trophy title

  Former Salem golfing standout Ashley Smith and current Plymouth star Kelsey Murphy played key roles in the public team's resounding victory over the private team in last weekend's Golf Association of Michigan Women's Atlas Trophy event that was played at Candlestone Golf & Resort in Belding.

  The public team defended its title by winning 17.5 points to 6.5 points over the private team in a format that is similar to the Ryder and Solheim Cups.

  The margin of victory was the largest ever for the public contingent.

  The private team consisted of players whose home course is a private country club while the public team's players hone their skills at public courses.

  Each team was made up of 12 players who earned invitations base on the GAM's women's honor roll, the top player from the junior honor roll (Murphy) and the top player from the senior honor roll.

  In Saturday's four-ball event, Murphy and Smith teamed up to earn a half point in their match with Christine Edwards and Donna Benford.

  In Saturday's foursomes competition, Smith and Murphy won, 2-and-1, over Betsy French and Terry Delcamp. Among the highlights of the victory were a 125-yard chip-in eagle from Murphy following a solid Smith drive. Murphy also added a chip-in birdie.

  In Sunday's singles matches, Smith defeated Delcamp, 6-and-5, while Murphy lost a tough match to Edwards, 5-and-3. Edwards is a Plymouth resident.