Golfer Kelly might not compete in SEA Games

KUALA LUMPUR: Fast-rising Malaysian amateur golfer Kelly Tan may not compete in the Indonesia SEA Games later in November.

The 18-year-old Kelly, who won a bronze medal in the 2009 Laos SEA Games and moved to Florida earlier this year to pursue her playing career, is unable to confirm her participation in this year’s edition due to the hectic schedule in the US.


Kelly Tan
“I would love to compete in this year’s SEA Games ... but I have only been in the US for six months now and my schedule is quite tight as I am competing in the amateur tour there,” said Kelly.

Her decision to relocate to the US has certainly paid off as she has won three out of seven amateur tournaments. She finished as runner-up in another three. She won the Hurricane Junior Tour, Leadbetter Tour and the American Junior Golf tournament before going on to win her maiden international title – the Mazda Malaysian Ladies Amateur Open last month.

Kelly, who received the sponsor’s invitation for the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia (Oct 13-16), is setting high standards for herself – with a top-10 finish in mind.

Last year, the unheralded Kelly finished in 32nd spot to become the best-placed Malaysian golfer in a strong field.

This time, she aims to do even better.

“I will be trying my best to finish in the top 10 and become the best-placed Malaysian but the competition this year will be tougher,” said Kelly.

“This year, the format will be played over the full 72 holes over four days and, with so many world class players, it will be no easy feat.

“There is also Jean Chua (Malaysia’s professional golfer) and she will pose the biggest challenge to me finishing as the top-placed Malaysian golfer. All I can do is practise hard and just do my best when the time comes.”

Yesterday, Kelly attended a coaching clinic conducted by top American golfers – Paula Creamer and Natalie Gulbis – for the girls of the Sime Darby Development Programme at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC).

Kelly will head back to Florida at the end of this month to resume training.


Link : http://thestar.com.my/sports/story.asp?file=/2011/8/6/sports/9248927&sec=sports