My life in sport: Cecilia Cho

Cecilia Cho. Photo / Brett Phibbs

She's just 14 but has a list of senior golf victories and achievements that almost defy belief, not to mention her domination of the junior scene.

Auckland's Cecilia Cho is the latest budding superstar of the game, and the delightful South Korea-born youngster humbly admits she has set her sights on being the best in the world.

Our women's golf is hardly that any more - it's been overrun by child prodigies to the point that some team photos look like they were taken on school field trips.

Leading the way by a long way is Pakuranga's Cho and her North Harbour rival Lydia Ko.

The Cracker from Paka, a crusty veteran compared to the 12-year-old Ko, heads the field. She claimed her 16th trophy of the year by leading Auckland to the interprovincial title at the Grange last week after being taken to the wire by Ko in the team event.

Fate led Cho to golf after her family left Daegu - a big city in the southeast of the country - primarily to further her older brother John's education in New Zealand.

Mother Agatha - who runs a health shop - is Cho's caddy while her dad John still spends much of his time working in Korea.

Cho is like a machine on the course, cool and calm whatever the situation.

She has already claimed the national amateur title, becoming the second youngest to do so in winning at Titirangi this year. (Cho was slightly older than another Aucklander, Larissa Eruera, when she won the title three years ago).

Cho clearly has a serious talent. But just like former world amateur No 1 and fellow Korean-Kiwi Danny Lee, Cho's success is also built on an amazing work ethic.

Cho practises eight hours a day on weekends, although she slacks off during the week when she trains for four hours a day around her school commitments.

In the old days, you might have shuffled through a bar or braved the pro shop banter for an interview with the best female golfer in the land.

Nowadays, your best chance is to hang around a school gate.

Cho, a Pakuranga College Year 10 student who is seeking New Zealand citizenship, answers a few Herald questions.

What inspired you to play golf?

After we first arrived I just went to a golf range with a Korean friend I met here because I had nothing else to do. I was really thrilled when I hit the ball well but it was another year before I started going to golf courses.

What was it like arriving in a new country with a different language?

I didn't really think about English - we had come here for my brother's academic career. I had to start with ABC. For the first three years I thought about going back to Korea but I'm really enjoying living here now.

How do you feel about your remarkable success this year?

It really is quite surprising to me. It's pretty exciting.

What's your happiest golf moment?

Winning the New Zealand amateur title. I also love all the nervous moments when I'm under pressure like I was on the 17th hole in the interprovincial tournament.

Worst moment?

I don't really have any but if I had to choose any, they would be when I lose tournaments because of mistakes I've made.

Favourite courses?

Titirangi and Gulf Harbour. They are always in such good condition and are very challenging.

Your career ambition?

I want to turn professional and be the world No 1. If I work my hardest, I think I can do it.Would you like to follow Michelle Wie by playing in men's tournaments?

Not many, but a few would be interesting.

Your hero?

[American golfer] Anthony Kim ... and Tiger Woods because he is No 1.

Your most inspirational coach?

Peter Kim at Takapuna. I go over there for my lessons.

Superstitions or lucky charms?

I like to wear necklaces.

What's your best round?


A 63 at Pakuranga in a practice round.

Favourite club?

I like Ping irons - they are really accurate I think. For one club, it would be the eight iron. I've had two holes in one with the eight - on a temporary hole at Remuera and the 17th at Muriwai while practising before a tournament.

Ping will love you ... what do you love most about golf?

Putting. I love the challenge.

And what do you like least?

Fairway woods.

Favourite movie?

Lord of the Rings.

Favourite music?

Korean.

Favourite band?

2PM [a Korean boyband].

You've got me there but I'm sure 2PM are very good ... moving on, your favourite TV show?

I don't watch much TV but if I had to pick something ... probably Shortland St and Prison Break.

Favourite labels?

Puma and adidas.

Now for the big one ... the citizenship won't rest on this, but it might help. Do you like rugby?

I sometimes watch it but I don't really understand the game.

With you there, Cecilia. Congratulations on your achievements and all the best for the future.


CECILIA CHO'S INCREDIBLE 2009 CV

Winner
* New Zealand amateur championship.
* Interprovincial teamtitle (and player of the tournament).
* The Grange 54 Hole Classic
* New Zealand under-15 and 19 championships.
* National secondary schools strokeplay.
* National secondary schools team title.
* Auckland provincial championship.
* Waikato Classic.
* Ruth Middleton Matamata Open.
* North Shore Classic.
* North Harbour provincial matchplay.
* Auckland secondary schools strokeplay.
* Tauranga Open.
* South Island women's amateur strokeplay.
* Grant Clements Memorial.

And also ...

* Leading amateur at the New Zealand women's open.
* Runner-up New Zealand women's under-23 championship.
* Runner-up New Zealand women's strokeplay.
* Fifth in the North Island strokeplay.