No fooling around for Hong Kong's Lam on US mission
Gifted teen golfer is embarking on a international journey that could be the start of a great pro career
Lucas Lam smiles when asked about his birthday. He turned 17 on April 1 - "Yes, I know, April Fools' Day," he laughs - and the irony is not lost on him because, in reality, he is one smart and grounded young man.
And it is this maturity, coupled with his talent, that may - just may - allow the Hong Kong youngster to be a success in the cut-throat world of professional golf.
The next three months will give Lam and his coach, Mission Hills Golf Club Group executive director Iain Roberts - some idea of his current standing and what he needs to work on next.
Today, Lam flies out to the United States to play in a series of age-group tournaments in California that will include the Junior World Golf Championships at Torrey Pines in San Diego. Then, in August, he will represent Hong Kong at the Youth Olympics in Nanjing.
I'm already talking to a few coaches about playing in the US but I'm not thinking too far ahead. I just want to keep working hard and if it's going well I can consider turning pro
He is relishing the challenge. "I've played in the US previously, but not much. The HKGA [Hong Kong Golf Association] didn't send me before because my game was not at a good enough level, but now they're sending me for the entire US summer tour. As well as the world juniors, I'll be playing Future Champions tournaments and attending some summer camps. It promises to be a great experience.