Friedman advances in WGAM amateur championship

Golf has provided plenty of storylines on the national level lately, among them Greg Norman’s pursuit of a British Open title. The Shark was unable to swim away with a claret jug, but on the local front, things seem to be developing nicely for one of Lynn’s own.Tara Friedman of Gannon advanced in the Women’s Golf Association of Massachusetts (WGAM) Amateur Championship on Tuesday. The WGAM is holding its amateur championship and President’s Cup for the 105th time. This year’s edition is taking place at Salem Country Club in Peabody.On Tuesday, in the first round of the championship flight, Friedman was seeded 13th in match play. She defeated Marion Webster (Kittansett Club), winning the match on the 17th hole, 3 & 1. Today, in the top 16, she plays Lisa Anderson (Ferncroft CC, Danvers).Asked how she was preparing for today’s round, Friedman said, “Rest. Just mentally prepare and enjoy the moment. It’s a great experience.”Friedman has played with a strained muscle in her lower back, an injury she has had for about a month or so.”Golf caused it to become a little tight,” she said.She will have physical therapy on Thursday.In the qualifying round on Monday, Friedman shot a 79 to advance. She was the only one of four participants from Gannon that day to move on.