Even for the young, time marches on. That’s not a bad thing, of course, especially if you use that most precious of commodities well.
Golf NSW representatives Steph Kyriacou and Grace Kim have both put to good use the 12 months since the 2019 Geoff King Motors Australian Ladies Classic at Bonville Golf Resort.
Both played the Ladies European Tour co-sanctioned event last year, but both know they are better players today as the opening round of 2020 looms.
“Yeah, not too bad,” says Kim of a start to the year which has included victories at both the NSW Amateur and the prestigious Avondale Amateur tournament.
“I didn’t make the cut last year, so I caddied for Steph on the last two days which was a pain. But at least I didn’t have to walk!”
Kyriacou giggles at the memory of her good friend fulfilling looping duties in 2019 and says playing the weekend again is a high priority.
“That’s the first goal, but I’d really like to finish in the top 10 as well,” she says.
“I’ve definitely improved since last year, I’m a lot more consistent and I have more confidence.
“I don’t second guess myself as much as I used to, and I’ve really been enjoying the chance to compare my game to the pros, not just this week but next week and at the Vic Open a couple of weeks ago as well.”
Both say the opportunity to measure themselves against touring players is important as they consider their own futures.
“This is where I want to be and what I want to do so knowing how I compare is pretty important,” says Kim.
“These are the players we both need to be able to compete with if this is what we’re going to do,” agrees Kyriacou.
Before any of that, though, there is this week to focus on.
“I’d love to get in contention but you can’t really control that,” says Kim.
“One of the things I’ve learnt is that you can’t control outcomes, you can only try your best.
“You know your golf is good enough, that’s how you got here, you just have to let yourself play.”
Grace Kim is paired with Ann Van Dam and Sarah Kemp for the opening two rounds and will tee off at 8.00am on Thursday from the 9th, while Kyriacou will play alongside Esther Henseleit and Christina Kim on the opening two days. She tees off at 8.50am on Thursday, also from the 9th.