Indian golf at par with world

While the Indian professionals will undergo a similar training camp at the Classic Golf Course, Gurgaon from October 4-6, the first phase here catered to the needs of the amateur golfers. Though Reid said that it made no difference. “The amateurs are equally keen about their game like the pros,” said the Irish instructor. “While the basic principle remains the same for both we do change the techniques according to individual needs.”

One of the new aspects brought in by DLGA was the videorecordings of the golfers in action. “I think it makes a world of difference,” said Rishi Narain, a National coach who was a part of the program’s first edition. “Watching yourself play makes it easier to understand your flaw, rather than someone just telling you about it.”

Though Indians have not made a major impact in the golfing world, Reid felt that the potential is very much there. “I have worked with Indians and one of the important part of their game is that they feel very strongly about it. Also they are very good observers. There was this caddie, who managed to hit the ball a good 120-yards for the very first time that he tried. He has observed people playing and picked up the game which is very good.” opined Reid.

Amongst current Indian players, Reid finds amateur Amit Luthra most impressive. And on the international scene feels American Mark O’Meara, winner of this year’s Augusta Masters, set for the `Golfer of the Year’ award.

“But golf is not only restricted to professionals, it hasbecome a way of life,” said Reid while recalling an incident, how a businessman had to learn golf to expand his business. Apparently his Japanese counterparts laid down a condition that they would deal with him only if he could play golf!