In an occasional series this column will introduce members of the Victorian State Team.
In the first of these we talk to Jo Charlton.
Lives: Melbourne
Club: Metropolitan GC
Handicap: +1
Age: 25
Coach: Darren Cole
Career Highlights: 2014 Won Portsea Open, 2013-14 Pennant champions, 2013 Interstate Series champions, T27 Victorian Open, QF Australian Amateur.
Other notable achievements: Captain Women’s State Team 2012-14.
How did you get started in golf:
I started playing when I was 16 when a PE teacher at school invited me to play in a nine-hole event at Metropolitan GC. Once my grandpa heard of this he was delighted and organised lessons with Brian Twite.
Who had the most influence on your game growing up:
Cath Livy (PE teacher) and Tony Charlton (grandfather). Cath Livy was so determined to get involved in the game following our game at Metropolitan she donated me my first set of clubs and then played with me for each of my handicap cards. My grandfather was responsible for creating great passion and knowledge of the sport within our family. His fondest memories as a sports commentator and event co-ordinator were his golfing days so I was fortunate enough to have some amazing golfing moments with him – one of which was playing 18 holes with Peter Thomson at Capital GC.
What are your immediate goals:
In 2015 I want to compete in national and international ranking events and reach the top 10 in Australian Women’s Rankings. At the end of 2015 I want to turn professional.
What is your ultimate ambition in golf:
To be a successful golfer on the LET and LPGA tours.
What are the strengths of your game:
Tough mindedness and percentage of fairways hit.
What areas need work:
Putting – I want to average 30 or less putts per round.
How much time do you spend practising:
Between 35-40 hours a week, which includes strength and conditioning, technical, rounds of golf and mental practice.
Who is your favourite player?
Adam Scott. He is the complete package – skilled, intelligent, well-spoken and good looking.
What is your favourite course and why:
Tough one! Best in Australia – the Old Course at The National as it offers a variety of shots with its undulating environment. Best overseas – Muirfield, The Old Course, St Andrews and Royal Birkdale – I can’t separate these three. True links golf where you can enjoy creative golf.
Who would be in your ideal foursome:
Adam Scott – any girl’s dream!
Favourite sport to watch apart from golf:
AFL – when Essendon are winning!
Favourite movie:
Man on Fire.
What’s on your iPod:
Triple J assortment.
Favourite food:
Thai food and chocolate
Who do you follow on Facebook and Twitter:
Golf, golf, golf…
By: Robert Grant