Round 1 of the USGA Women’s Open began at 7 this morning at Saucon Valley Country Club in Pennsylvania. After the first few hours there are few suprises amongst the leaders: Lorena Ochoa from Mexico leads with a 2 under par after 14 holes,  tied with Hee Young Park from South Korea.

The major TV and Radio broadcasters will be following all the top pros as the rounds continue. ESPN is broadcasting live from 2 – 6 pm today. We would like to focus on the amateurs instead: these remarkable “ordinary” young women who make it to the U.S. Women’s Open.

At this time, the leading amateur in the field is Alison Lee from Valencia, CA. She is only 14 years old and is holding her own at even par after nine holes of play. She is averaging only 1.33 putts per hole – currently ranked #1 in putts!!! Go Alison. You gogurl!

From the USGA Player Notes:

Won a 2-for-1, two-hole playoff, recording birdie on both holes, to qualify at Santa Cruz, Calif.. Was leader after first 18 holes, finishing with rounds of 68-82-150. Won the 2009 L.A. City Junior Girls’ Championship. Tied for fourth at the AJGA’s 2009 Heather Farr Classic. Qualified for match play at the U.S. Women’s Amateur and the U.S. Girls’ Junior in 2008. Won the 2008 Hanmi Bank Junior Open and was runner-up at the 2008 McDonald’s Betsy Rawls Girls’ Championship. Advanced to match play at the 2007 U.S. Girls’ Junior. Named a first-team AJGA Rolex All-American selection in 2008. Will have her dad, Johnny Lee, caddie for her at the U.S. Women’s Open.

As play continues, we will keep you up to date on Allison’s progress and that of other amateur players who are making their mark at this great event.

Click here to see the latest stats.