The West Coast swing is always one of my favourite stretches on the LPGA Tour schedule. I think it is because it reminds me of South Africa in terms of weather and terrain, writes ASHLEIGH BUHAI.
My first stop was San Diego, where we always get to stay with South African friends who used to be members at Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club. We have been very fortunate to meet and stay with many families over the years, but nothing beats coming back to the house after a day at the course and having a braai and some South African banter.
My tee-to-green performance during the week in San Diego was great but things didn’t quite get going due to a misbehaving putter. I finished the week in 33rd position with scores of 70, 72, 72 and 71. The second week we headed to the desert for the first Major of the year, the ANA Inspiration. The Dinah Shore course was in the best condition I had ever seen it in: lush fairways, thick rough and firm, fast greens; just what you want for a Major test.
Unfortunately, the putting woes continued for me which led to a lack of confidence on the greens. I played a lot of good golf tee to green again but when you don’t make those few birdies and putts to counter the mistakes here and there, it becomes very difficult to keep yourself in the tournament.
I was obviously very disappointed to have missed the cut in such a big tournament but with this now being my 13th year on Tour I think I have learned to deal with the missed-cut weeks a lot better that I used to.
I now analyse my stats after the week to see what I need to improve and then work on that for the next tournament. Although it’s not easy, I feel I have learned to assess and remove my emotions a lot better now than I used to. Next up we headed to LA before travelling to Asia for two tournaments. There is still a long season ahead and plenty of golf to play.
