Young fans rally behind Brooke Henderson at CPKC Women's Open

The CPKC Women's Open in Edmonton is drawing golf fans of all ages, with Canadian golf star Brooke Henderson being a significant draw. The tournament provides an up-close opportunity to watch some of the world's best female golfers compete.

A notable aspect of the event is the presence of 'Brooke's Brigade,' an initiative started in 2017 that connects junior golfers across Canada who share a passion for the sport and admire Henderson. On Friday, many of these young fans occupied a dedicated viewing zone, enjoying a front-row experience of the action at the Royal Mayfair Golf Club.

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The CPKC Women's Open is a chance to watch the world's best female golfers compete up close.

Henderson, the defending champion from Smiths Falls, Ontario, is aiming for her third career win in Canada's LPGA tournament. She posted a second-round 68, bringing her total to 5-under par. With two rounds remaining, she trails clubhouse leader Soo Bin Joo of South Korea by four strokes.

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Since 2017, the Brooke’s Brigade initiative has brought together junior golfers across the country who share a passion for the sport and Canada’s winningest golfer.

Despite a couple of bogeys on the back nine, Henderson's performance remains strong. In one instance, her tee shot strayed left and hit a spectator, to whom she promptly apologized and gifted a golf ball.

The tournament also features other notable Canadian talents, including Calgary's Aphrodite Deng, who finished her round with back-to-back birdies to reach 3-under par. Canadian teenagers Anna Huang and Michelle Xing also had afternoon tee times, competing against a field that includes the top 65 players and ties vying for a share of the US$2.75 million prize purse.

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The defending champion from Smiths Falls, Ont., seeking a third career win in Canada’s LPGA tournament, shot a second-round 68 on Friday to sit 5-under par.