In this first episode of our three-part conversation with 1985 U.S. Women’s Open Champion Kathy Guadagnino (Baker), we tee off with a delightful surprise—singing happy birthday to Kathy on the very day of our interview. What follows is a heartfelt and revealing look at the early chapters of a champion’s life.

Born in Albany, New York, Kathy reflects on her childhood split between upstate New York and Florida, where her father’s love of golf first planted the seeds of her future in the game. She shares colorful memories of backyard putting contests, nickel wagers to hit past a tree, and the backyard bunker that shaped her early skills. Listeners will hear how her father’s gentle persistence and passion for sports—not to mention his role as CEO of a swimming pool company—steered Kathy toward golf.

Kathy recounts the story of her reluctant but steady climb into competitive golf, from family vacations to her first state tournament, where she surprised even herself with a runner-up finish. She candidly discusses the challenges of being a latecomer to the game and the pivotal role her father played in recognizing and nurturing her talent.

We follow her rise through amateur golf—state wins, national events, and early U.S. Women’s Open experiences—culminating in her time at the University of Tulsa. Along the way, Kathy reflects on her early struggles with match play, her mixed emotions about golf during her teen years, and the faith that would eventually reshape her purpose and passion for the game.

From Ferris wheels to fairways, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the formative years of a major champion whose journey was anything but conventional. Stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3 as Kathy’s inspiring story continues to unfold.

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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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