Four-time Jennie K. champion Kristina Merkle dropped into a tie for 15th in the Joanne Winter Arizona Silver Belle Championship, yesterday at Arizona State’s Karsten Golf Course in Tempe.

Merkle, a Moanalua High School alum now in her sophomore year at Tulsa, was a shot out of first after firing a 71 in Tuesday’s first round. She had a 78 yesterday and is 5 back.

Kauai High senior Kelli Oride (77–153) has a share of 35th and Punahou sophomore Kacie Komoto (78–155) is tied for 52nd going into today’s final round.

The Silver Bell began in 1971 and is open to girls and women between the ages of 13 and 23.

Rolfing is radio guest

Pete Rolfing, who handles on-course operations for golf events including the Hyundai Tournament of Champions and Mitsubishi Electric Championship, will be the guest on Sunday’s Emily T Gail Show. It will be broadcast on 850-AM in Hilo and 790-AM in Kona at 6 p.m.

Tour nets sponsor

Ending an already strong year on a high note, the PGA Tour announced a marketing deal with InterContinental Hotels Group.

Among its brands is Crowne Plaza, which has extended its title sponsorship of the Colonial through 2015.

That gives the tour 18 title sponsors signed at least for the next four years.