Adithi Ashok

Some time ago I write about our ace tennis player, Rohan Bopanna [Thursday,sept9,2010]. Now it is time to write about another special talent, her name is Adithi Ashok and her sport is Golf.

Golf unlike many other games is a game played against the course and sometimes yourself. It is also a game in which it takes many years to become a mature and complete player. This is because mastering the game, according to me is extremely difficult and needs lots of time and practice. Added to this, golf course designers are building courses which are more testing then ever and these are also playing much longer than ever.

Given this background Adithi’s performance is astounding. She came on the national scene just a year ago when she won the national amateur championships for all age groups. Two days ago she competed against the top professionals of the country and almost won. She lost in a five hole sudden death playoff. The pro tournament was held in one of the toughest championship courses in the country, KGA Bangalore, and I was one of the privileged witnesses to this remarkable performance.

Why is it so remarkable, it is so, because Adithi is only 13 year old, thin built, waif of a girl.

My reckoning is, if she keeps on like this, she will play the world’s ladies PGA when she comes of age and turns a Pro. I hope when that happens in 5 years time, my faculties will be sharp enough to appreciate her feats.


Pregnant women and exercise

My friend Sunder sent me the following one and my fellow golfers will understand and agree with the man, but other readers, I am not so sure.

The room was full of pregnant women with their partners. The class was in full swing. The instructor was teaching the women how to breathe properly and was telling the men how to give the necessary assurance to their partners at this stage of the pregnancy.

She said "Ladies, remember that exercise is good for you. Walking is especially beneficial. It strengthens the pelvic muscles and will make delivery that much easier." Just take several stops and stay on a soft surface like grass or a path.

She looked at the men in the room, "and Gentlemen, remember - you're in this together - it wouldn't hurt you to go walking with her".

The room suddenly went very quiet as the men absorbed this information. Then a man at the back of the room slowly raised his hand.

"Yes?" answered the Instructor.

"I was just wondering if it would be all right if she carries a golf bag while we walk?"

This kind of sensitivity just can't be taught.

It kind of brings a tear to your eye