Only now are most golf enthusiasts digging their bags out from behind the holiday decorations to go play 18 holes at the links.

That's not the case for the Penn State women's golf team. The Nittany Lions have been teeing up, despite the abysmal climate of State College, or nature's storm drain, and are looking forward to the Big Ten Championships today through Sunday.

Although you'd rather have the beautiful weather later rather than never, you can't help but wish it came a little sooner. The Lions are no exception.

One tournament was canceled due to a blizzard in North Carolina. The snow may have been gone here for weeks now, but only now are the conditions conducive to golf. Taking practice swings in the corridor of Rec Hall may be better than nothing, but not by much.

Although the tournament is said to be at a neutral site, Columbus seems to be pretty skewed toward one Big Ten team from the same city. Ohio State has to be the favorite to win the event.

Playing in their backyard with a No. 3 ranking nationally, it's the Buckeyes' tournament to lose.

"Ohio State has to be the favorite," Penn State women's golf Denise St. Pierre said.

"They have the highest ranking in the Big Ten, and they're playing on their home course."

The Lions meanwhile have to prove themselves this weekend. They've recorded two consecutive fifth place finishes.

Last year, the Lions placed 11th in the championships. If they hope to upset a strong field this week, they have to put together a solid outing, led by sophomores Amber Weinerth and Katrin Wolfe. Both routinely put up the Lions' lowest scores, and this weekend cannot be an exception if Penn State looks to catch its conference rivals off guard.

Yesterday the Lions played a practice round and St. Pierre said the team is playing well prior to the opening 36 holes the Lions will play today, followed by 18 holes tomorrow and Sunday.

Following the Big Tens, the NCAA Regionals will be held May 6-8.