Golf: Bon to join pro ranks

aroline Bon. Photo / APN

New Zealand golf representative Caroline Bon is turning to the paid ranks.

The Northlander, who represented her country at last year's Espirito Santo women's team world championships in Argentina, said she was turning professional to further her game.

Bon, 24, will make her professional debut in Australia this weekend after joining the Australian Ladies Professional Golf (ALPG).

She will play in a series of events across the Tasman before returning to compete in the New Zealand Women's Open starting on February 17.

Bon has gained conditional entry to the Ladies European Tour (LET) and this year plans to compete in its access series, the official feeder tour.

She made it into the top 50 for the final round of the second stage qualifying but missed out on the top 30 to earn full rights to this year's LET.

"I have come up with a plan for me to continue growing in my game of golf," Bon said.

"This is to turn professional and play in as many events as possible against strong competitors. I believe that my confidence and game will improve as I become more comfortable playing in big events."

- NZPA