Wie secures LPGA tour card

Michelle Wie will be a part of the LPGA Tour in 2009 after securing her place through the qualifying school.

The 19-year-old Hawaiian carded a two-over-par 74 in the final round but still finished among the all-important top 20, tying for seventh on 12 under.

“It’s a weird feeling right now,” Wie said. “It’s a good feeling. I really earned it.

“I legitimately went through Q-School, went through the first stage, went through the second stage, and I really got it.

“It feels good to get that card. It’s like high school graduation, I guess.”

Being a regular member of the tour will be something new for Wie, who has been playing mostly on invitations since making her debut at the age of 13.

Wie battled a wrist injury and endured a disappointing 2008 campaign, missing three cuts and being disqualified from another tournament among her nine LPGA events.

However, she believes winning her card is something she can build on.

“It definitely boosts my confidence,” she said. “I have worked really hard this week, and for this moment.

“Everything that was written about me, it was a tough period. I have worked hard, and finally this week I get something for my accomplishment.”