'Big Sister' Russy hopes to end dry spell at Lakewood
Despite having played 20 tournaments on the Ladies Asian Golf Tour (LAGT) since 2006, Thai veteran professional Russamee Gulyanamitta remains without a win in six years.
The 36-year-old native of Rayong came closest to a victory in 2007 but lost out to current world No 1 Yani Tseng in a play-off at the DLF Country Club in New Delhi.
“Russy”, as she is affectionately known to the golf fraternity (“Big Sister” to her fellow Thai professionals) has made 17 cuts and finished among the top 10 no less than 10 times.
“I’m still in search of a win on the Ladies Asian Golf Tour. I would love to add this one trophy to my collection, and what better way than winning my home Open,” Russy said, adding that her game is in good shape.
Still boasting an athletic physique, Russy insists she has lost none of her desire to win. “In fact, I’m hungrier now than ever before, having not won a title in recent years,” she said.
She is well aware though that the wave of new talents emerging from Asia has not made her task any easier. But the Thai, who has played on the LPGA Tour, is banking on her extra experience and knowledge to pull away from her competitors.
“I’m challenging myself to go for the title. It would rejuvenate my playing career and boost my confidence since I have not given up hope of going on a winning run,” said Russy.
Russy plans to put her words into action today when she lines up on the tee to begin her campaign in the three-round US$150,000 Thailand Ladies Open at the Lakewood Country Club.
“I’ve got that winning feel again and this is raising my adrenaline. I’m going to give it my best shot. The field is very strong with a big presence of Korean and Japanese players plus my fellow Thai professionals.
“I’m not being complacent, but if I can manage my game well I believe success here is not going to be a problem. So I hope to re-ignite my winning ways beginning here – not just in Thailand but in other international tournaments.”
Yesterday’s draw paired Russy with another colourful character in Jennifer Rosales of the Philippines, with Japan’s Kaori Aoyam making up the threesome. Two past champions – Tanaporn Kongkiatkrai and Onnarin Sattayabanphot – together with Taiwan’s Tzu Chi Lin form another interesting group.
A field of 123, from Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Switzerland and hosts Thailand, will battle for the title.
