Playing a tournament at a course that’s just a short drive from home is a definite advantage according to Coffs Harbour’s Amelia Mehmet-Grohn.
The 25 year-old has been playing at Bonville Golf Resort for a decade and having the “home town advantage” makes her a player to watch when the Australian Women’s Classic tees off on Friday.
“I think it’s a blessing playing in your home town. I know a lot of people think ‘home town pressure’ but honestly, just having people follow me around, it’s really nice to be at home,” Mehmet-Grohn said.
“I think the trickiest part at Bonville is the greens and I think it’s a bit of a home town advantage knowing the greens and their grain and just trying to use that as much as possible to my advantage. Hopefully it helps to get the putter hot.”
Another local in the Australian Women’s Classic field this week is Bonville member Adele Douglas who plays the course most weeks.
A three time winner of the North Coast Ladies Classic, Douglas is another who those in the galleries will take particular interest in.
Mehmet-Grohn said being able to see and talk to people she knows while playing provides the opportunity to switch off between strokes.
“Having a chat definitely helps me as it allows me to rest my mind a bit,” she said.
“Even with strangers. Having a chat with people takes my mind off my golf and enjoy it.
“We’re pretty lucky to be able to play this tournament here because it’s definitely nice having familiar faces around cheering us on.”
Recently the Iowa State University graduate reached the semi finals at The Athena.
It was a result that has given her confidence on the course but she explained that this week it’s probably off the course where the greatest advantage comes with playing so close to home.
“You get to sleep in your own bed with your own pillow,” she said.
“I live at home with my parents so I’m lucky enough to have them to cook my meals. It’s nice to be at home and not have the stress of finding places to stay.”