Vani Kapoor on Pahalgam win & more

Vani Kapoor’s win at Pahalgam reflects on how the golfer has matured in her game, her ability to play well under pressure and on new courses. In this exclusive chat she shares what kept her going and how 2014 should be a milestone year to play more on Asian and European Tours.

[Q] What does it feel like bagging this tournament, you literally came from behind to bag it in class? [/Q]

[A] It feels amazing winning this tournament. I hadn’t played golf for a month because of my university exams and I was low on confidence. I wasn’t expecting to win. But after this win I feel more confident. [/A]

[Q] What’s keeping your game on the fairway? [/Q]

[A] The hard work that I am putting in and the continuos support from my coach, parents and close friends just makes me believe that I can do it. There comes a stage when they are more confident then I am. It just keeps me going. [/A]

[Q] How was the experience of playing the valley? [/Q]

[A] The Lidder valley golf course is just beautiful. Playing between the mountains capped mountains was an amazing experience. Undoubtedly the most beautiful golf course I have played in India. [/A]

[Q] At what stage were you convinced you will bag this given that Simi Mehra was leading initially? [/Q]

[A] I think this is one of the most stressful tournaments I have ever played. I had two shots to catch up with 2 holes to go. I sank a 25 footer on the 17th and Simi di made bogey. We were all square. On the last hole she hit into the water but I still wasn’t sure if I have won because she is such a great player that she cud have forced a play off. And plus it’s golf anything can happen in golf. Until i sank the last putt I wasn’t sure whether I had won. [/A]

[Q] How has this win reworked your plans for the future? [/Q]

[A]I want to play more on the Asian Tour and European Tour and make a mark there. That’s my goal. I will be playing a few tournaments during the end of the year. [/A]