Published on November 05, 2005

After making 2005 a remarkable year in her career, Thai golfing sensation Virada Nirapathpongporn has set her sights on finishing in the top 50 next year after becoming the first Thai to play on the lucrative LPGA Tour.

Virada arrived in Thailand on Tuesday after completing an invitational match in South Korea. She will return to the United States on November 22.

In a “Meet the Press” session at the Four Seasons Hotel yesterday, the 23-year-old from Bangkok, accompanied by her mother Dr Supranee, said it was her serious intent and great determination that helped fulfil her ultimate dream of competing in the LPGA.

“I just set my initial goal [to play in the LPGA]. While competing, I was motivated and determined to reach that goal. I followed my plan, tried my best in the game and that’s what counts,” a happy Virada said.

“The competition schedules have yet to come out, but I already set sights on winning a top 50 spot. That’s my first goal for the next season. I will kick off my first match in Hawaii and play on the west coast which includes Arizona and California. As a rookie, I think I have to play as many matches as I can,” she added.

Virada, who joined the Futures Tour in 2004, took two victories from 15 tournaments this season. “Out of 18 Futures Tour tournaments, I took part in 15. Last year, there were 30 LPGA and around five amateur tournaments.

“I think it remains the same next year. I might compete in between 25 and 30 matches. However, I have to try my best to finish among the top 90 to get an exemption from the Q-School. If I can finish in the top 40, I will be given a two-year exempt.”

Asked if she was worried about her LPGA debut, Virada smiled: “Not at all. I always finished in the top 5 in the Futures Tours and sometimes landed the crown. Even my caddy told me that if I can succeed in the Futures, this can also happen when I take part in the LPGA.

“Michelle Wie is a tough opponent in LPGA, but if I want to climb to the top, I have to beat her. I just had it in mind that I could do it in the Futures, why not in LPGA? I don’t think there is difference between my competition this season and next year. The only problem is that it will mean more time spent travelling,” said Virada, nicknamed Oui.

Somporn Suphop

The Nation

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