COUNTY JUNIORS ONE TO WATCH AVA BATES

When did you start playing golf and who was your inspiration?

I started playing golf at 7 years old as I would watch my dad teach my older brother on the range which inspired me to swing a golf club and ever since then I have not stopped.

Do you have a favourite player and who would be in your dream fourball?

My favourite player is Nelly Korda as it is inspiring to watch her play on TV and how she swings the golf club. My dream fourball would be Nelly Korda, Justin Rose and Tyrrell Hatton.

What have been your career highlights so far?

My career highlights so far would be winning the Astor Salver at the Berkshire Golf Club with a score of 5 under for 36 holes. Also becoming a quarter finalist at the R&A British Girls in 2021 at Fulford golf club playing against international players.

How often do you play / practice?

I am religiously working hard at improving my game every single day. I am fortunate enough to be a scholar at Wentworth Golf Club, which the support and the facilities from the club are fantastic in helping me improve my golf.

Is finding time to play whilst managing school/work etc. difficult?

It has been a challenge trying to balance golf with education but I have found sticking to a routine has helped me manage my time so that I can stay focused on my goals.

Name: Ava Bates Age: 17 Club: Wentworth Handicap: +3.0 Competition wins/titles/ placements: c Astor Salver winner, with a score of -5 for 36 holes c Faldo series winner in wales, qualifying for the grand final in Abu Dhabi with a score of -5 for 54 holes c Top 5 finish out of a field international players at the U18 R&A British Girls, to become a quarter finalist. c Winner of the Wentworth Junior Club Championship, becoming the first girl to ever win it. c Winner of the Wentworth Ladies Club Championship, matching the course record with a -5 on the last round c Bernard Gallacher trophy winner c St Mellion Junior Open winner c Surrey Ladies Birley trophy winner matchplay competition winner. c U14 Surrey Champion winner at the Drift Golf Club c U18 England golf order of merit, finishing 10th place in 2021

Are there specific areas of your game that you work on and how do you monitor your results to try and identify any concerns you have?

Especially during the golf season, I tend to focus on my short-game as I believe that is where you are able to gain shots over other players. I monitor my results through statistics that identify my weaknesses on certain rounds, which is helpful in telling me where I can improve so it does not restrict my outcome.

What are your goals for 2023 and beyond?

My goals for 2023 are to finish top in national tournaments.

What advice would you give to young players starting on their journey in golf?

My advice to young players would be to work hard and stay patient with your golf and you will get rewarded.

Finally, what are your other interests when you are not playing golf?

When I am not playing golf I am usually at the gym or seeing my friends.