For National Squad member Kristie Smith, this week will mark a new chapter in her life as a golfer. Touching down in Stockholm earlier this week, Smith has been preparing for her international professional debut at the Scandinavian TPC Tournament at the invitation of world number two Annika Sorenstam. Speaking to Golf Australia, Smith said she was in a positive frame of mind about the tournament where she will also celebrate her 20th birthday during her opening round. It was an easy decision to turn pro, Smith said. It felt like the time was right-I d achieved most of the goals I d set myself this year and I m ready to face the next challenge. That challenge comes in the form of Fr s ker Golf Club, an hour s drive west of Stockholm. Opened in 1987, the course sits on the North shore of Lake Malaren and low-lying land brings a number of small ponds around the course into play. Obviously more travel and a busier schedule will be physically and mentally challenging, Smith said. But then there s the excitement of competing against the best players and earning some money to give me more independence. Smith is careful not to let the sight of her famous competitors shake her game. Being in awe of the great players is part of the excitement but I realise I have to concentrate on my own game and play well to compete with them. Host Annika Sorenstam has won the tournament six times since it began but current champion Catriona Matthew from Scotland will not return to defend her title. The Scandinavian TPC runs from 7-10 August.