10 | July 2017 #juniorgolfmag Visit us at juniorgolfmag.net Pimnipa is already earning awards and accolades JG: When did you first start playing golf and what did you like about it? Panthong: I was introduced to golf at the age of 10 at my local course in Thailand. I found it fun to play because it was very challenging, both mentally and physically. JG: While in Thailand, did you play on an Asian junior tour? Panthong: I played all over Thailand and oth- er parts of Asia, so it was a very important ex- perience. When I was selected for the Thai- land national golf team, I was able to expand my tournament experience to Europe too. JG: What was your best experience while playing in Asia and Europe? Panthong: I would have to say the Dutch Open, in The Netherlands. It was one of the first tournaments that I won, and it really made me realize what a great opportunity I had in front of me. JG: How did you end up playing collegiate golf in the States? Panthong: After winning some tournaments, I started to get interest from colleges in Amer- ica. Coach Robertson, at Kent State, came all the way to Bangkok to see me play. He was very nice and told me a lot of good things about their golf program and the school. I was ready to accept the challenge and take my game to the next level. JG: You’ve started very quickly. What was it like to win the Mercedes-Benz Championship in your first college tournament? Panthong: It made me very happy. I loved the course, and my short game – including my ap- proach shots and putting – were working really well. It all came together for me. Thailand-OhioExpress HasKentStateRolling THE WORLD OF COLLEGIATE GOLF HAS GROWN IN LEAPS AND BOUNDS, not only in its popularity and media coverage, but also in its embrace of athletes from all corners of the globe. Nowhere is that more pronounced than in the women’s game, where young European and Asian golfers have been consistently excelling. One of the latest to make a major splash is Kent State University’s 19-year-old Pimnipa Panthong — Pim to her close friends — from Nakhon Sawan, Thailand. Beginning her sophomore year at the Ohio school this fall, she made her collegiate tournament debut with a win at the Mercedes-Benz Championship, and twice last fall was named MAC Conference Player of the Week. One of two accomplished Thai golfers on the Kent State team — the other is Wad Phaewchimplee — Pimnipa continues to make an impact with every passing tournament. Junior Golf spoke with the young phenom recently, and we share with you now her background, philosophy and goals for the future. BYRANDYSCHULTZ,JUNIORGOLF JG: What has been your biggest adjustment with attending college in the U.S.? Panthong: The language is difficult, but I’m trying very hard to improve. Also, the physi- cal workouts are tough. We didn’t work out as much, back in Thailand. JG: Has anything surprised you about America? Panthong: I’m surprised how strict everybody is about time. Back home, it wasn’t that big of a deal if you were a little bit late sometimes. Here, it’s very important to be on time. That’s something I’m learning quickly. JG: What are your major goals for the next few years? Panthong: I’m going to work very hard and try to keep playing the best golf I can. Ultimate- ly, I want to help our team win the NCAA Championships. JG: Do you plan to pursue a career on the LPGA Tour? Panthong: Yes, that is my highest goal. I know that it will take a lot of dedication and prac- tice, but it’s something that I really want to do.