FORSYTH, Ill. (WAND) - The Decatur Area Women's Open has been renamed after Marilyn Dechert.

The Decatur golfing legend and former Millikin women's golf coach won the open nine times.

And one person looking to take after her legacy is Amy Rankin.

Rankin has won the past five Decatur Area Women's Opens. "Five was awesome." said Rankin. "But six would be excellent. Trying to catch Marilyn Dechert's record."

Although Rankin is chasing greatness, golf is never a given. There was one point in her life when Rankin thought she would never play again. Rankin injured her wrist in college and had to take nine years off.

"I hated that time off," said Rankin. "So i did everything to try to get back and get my strength back."

Rankin said the injury actually helped her to not put too much pressure on herself. And it seems to be working. After shooting a 69, Rankin currently sits atop of the leaderboard after play on Tuesday.

   RT Tee Time
8:42 AmyRankin69
8:42 GraceMiller73
8:42 JanDevore78
8:34 CarlaSloan79
8:34 JodiFerguson80
8:34 TerriKuhle80
     

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