Event: 28th Carolinas Women’s Match Play Championship
Host Site: Pinewood Country Club
Playing Dates: August 3-5, 2026
Social Media: @CGAgolf1909

Related Links: Bracket Results | Photos

ASHEBORO, N.C. (August 6, 2026) – Anna Howerton captured the 28th Carolinas Women’s Match Play Championship with a dramatic 20-hole victory over Emerson B. Dever at Pinewood Country Club.

Howerton entered the eight-player championship bracket as the No. 4 seed after advancing through group play. She opened the knockout stage with a quarterfinal victory over Leah Edwards before needing 19 holes to defeat Ella June Hannant in the semifinals.

Dever, the No. 6 seed, earned her spot in the championship match with a win over Eleanor Burnette in the quarterfinals before defeating No. 2 seed Kasey McIlvaine, 4 & 3, in the semifinals.

The championship match proved to be the closest of the week. Howerton and Dever each carded rounds of even-par 72, with neither player able to build more than a 1-up advantage during regulation. Howerton won Nos. 1 and 3, while Dever answered with wins at Nos. 2 and 6. The two remained all square for the final 12 holes, sending the match to extra holes.

After both players made par on the first playoff hole, Howerton secured the championship on the 20th hole, making a birdie 3 to Dever’s par 4 to close out the victory.

The title capped a demanding final day for Howerton, who played 39 holes between her semifinal and championship matches, with both victories requiring extra holes.

The Carolinas Golf Association extends its sincere appreciation to the members and staff of Pinewood Country Club for their hospitality and support of the 28th Carolinas Women’s Match Play Championship.