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Indians looking to impress again on home soil

Indian golfers will have a chance to improve on their amazing record at home when they tee up for the inaugural US$ 400,000 Aamby Valley Asian Masters on Thursday.

Harmeet Kahlon, whose lone Asian Tour win came at the 2002 Hero Honda Masters is looking to add to that, as are many others like Gaurav Ghei, Vijay Kumar and Firoz Ali. Ali Sher, who won the 1991 and 1993 Indian Open, is also in the field.

Indians have always been successful on Indian courses. Since 1998, Indians have won nine of the 14 Asian Tour events in India.

Kahlon, a regular on the Asian Tour, was happy after his first round at the lovely course. "I'm happy to be here. Yesterday (Tuesday) was my first round and I feel proud to see a course like this in India. It's a great challenge, so picturesque and in great condition. To put up a US$ 400,000 event is great for Indian golf and the Asian Tour. As for the course, the rough is pretty high and the lies are undulating. I think it'll be a real challenge."

Ali has often done well in Asian Tour events in India. "Right now I feel I am in great shape and can pull it off. It is an open field and I have just won two events recently on Indian Tour," said Ali, who was tied 13th at the same course when it hosted the Aamby Valley Indian PGA Championships last June.

Winner of the only pro event at the Aamby Valley, Vijay Kumar, is equally confident. "I saw the course. It is more difficult than the last time with the rough fairly high. However, I must say the course is truly international in nature now," said Kumar, winner of the 2002 Indian Open.

While those with one title will like to increase their tally, Amandeep Johl, ranked 17th on the Asian Tour's UBS Order of Merit is hoping to build on the second place from Pakistan and the third place from Maekyung Open a fortnight ago.

SSP Chowrasia, who has a lovely swing and a very solid chip and putt style, could well be one of the dark horses. Tied second last year at the domestic event on this course, Chowrasia has two wins this year on the local tour. "I have often contemplated playing on the Asian Tour and am looking forward to having a go at Macau and Philippines after the Aamby Valley Asian Masters. I like this course as it demands accuracy," said the smiling Chowrasia.

May 11, 2006