Gauri eyes Asiad berth

For home golfers, the Hero Women’s Indian Open is the only tournament that gives them a chance to rub shoulders with top players from Asia and Europe.

Over the years, the event has also witnessed several Indian juniors making a mark on the Ladies Asian and European Tours.

If Bengalurean amateur Aditi Ashok surprised everyone taking a share of the lead on the first day of the event last year, Gauri Monga impressed all with her consistent game at this year’s edition, that concluded on the day.

Aditi finished eighth, the best among Indians last year, while Gauri signed off even better at tied fifth with a total score of three-under 213.

“It feels great to finish in the top-10. I never expected to come up with such a score and luckily that too on my home course. It’s a big tournament and playing alongside all these players from Europe is a great experience. They are so focused and their fitness levels add to their game. It’s a great experience,” Gauri told this paper.

“I am happy to keep my calm and match the top players. I think if I had played as a pro there would have been more pressure on me. Next time, I hope to compete as a pro,” said the Delhi lass, who was accompanied by her mother and aunt Bubble Suneja, also DGC captain, on all three days.

After a brilliant season, in which she had four wins including the Sri Lankan Open, Gauri is keenly looking ahead to the next year, an important one for athletes considering the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games are lined up.

Gauri, who is pursuing BBA from one of the top institutes in the country, says she aims to participate in the 2014 Asian Games before turning pro.

“I am 20 and am playing well. But I want to give myself a chance to play in the big events. I want to take part in the Asian Games next year. I have waited for the event so long.

“Last time, I missed the trials. So, I am working hard to be part of the Indian team,” said the Delhi girl, who will be playing in Pune and Mumbai next. Ahead of the tournament, there was a lot of buzz about the home golfers holding an edge at the challenging course. “Yes, it’s an advantage for our game but at the same time, it adds pressure. I am happy that I could hold my nerves and was not affected by the cheering of the crowd,” said the promising star.