Tee Off

HK Magazine: What got you into golf?
Edwin Kam: I was forced to play it by my parents. I hated it at first because the rubber handles of the golf stick really hurt my hands. I also found it boring and it brought me a lot of frustration.

HK: What changed?
EK: Being able to hit the ball beyond the 50-yard sign on the driving range brought me encouragement. Also, when I joined HKGA, I got lots of encouragement from peers and my coach. From then on, I just always wanted to challenge myself and keep on perfecting my skills.

HK: What do you think of those who think golf is not a sport?
EK: I’m not hurt by it because competitive golf actually makes you physically fit; you need the physical ability to play five days straight in the heat. In junior tournaments, you have to carry your own golf bag, which can weigh up to 20 pounds. Besides, golf is the world’s top sport, in terms of earnings.

HK: Best golfing moment?
EK: My lowest score was five under par 66 in Macau. It felt like I had to simply look at the target, swing at the ball and it would land at the flag. People call it “being in the zone.” I was so surprised that I could be in the zone for the whole round. That day was also a turning point for me. It proved that I had the ability to play professional golf.

HK: Does it get you girls?
EK: I don’t really think about that! It certainly makes a good conversation topic when talking to adults. It takes a good personality to play good golf and so adults – particularly business people who play golf – respect you for it.

For more information contact the Hong Kong Golf Association, www.hkga.com, 2504-8659.