Bivens out as LPGA commissioner

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., July 13 (UPI) -- Carolyn Bivens resigned Monday as LPGA commissioner and was immediately replaced by retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Marsha Evans as the tour's leader.

Evans was made "acting commissioner" as the LPGA board opened a search for the full-time leader to have in place by the start of the 2010 season. Evans said she won't seek the full-time appointment.

An LPGA release said the tour was changing its leadership structure and announced the appointment of Hall of Fame player Annika Sorenstam as adviser to the board.

Several leading LPGA players had sent the LPGA board a letter asking that Bivens, who had two years left on her contract, be removed. Some players said they were unhappy that the tour had lost seven tournaments since 2007 under Bivens' watch.

"We respect Carolyn's decision to resign since she has led this organization professionally and passionately the past four years," said LPGA Board of Directors President Michelle Ellis. "We appreciate the unwavering commitment that she provided the LPGA, and during her four years, Carolyn accomplished a great deal for the LPGA and its player members."