In 2012 two National Squad members will be writing exclusively for MYGolf. They will share with us their experiences at various tournaments as well as giving us an insight into what it takes to be one of the top amateur golfers in Australia. Junior National Squad member, Cathleen Santoso, starts off the series by reflecting on her time at the 2012 ISPS Handa Women&aposs Australian Open. By Cathleen Santoso It was a phenomenal experience playing in the Australian Women’s Open at Royal Melbourne Golf Club. Golf Australia had organised for me to fly down from Sydney on Sunday and stay at the Quest Apartments in Cheltenham for the week. The weather wasn t inviting on the first day of practice, with winds blowing 40km/h topped off with some heavy rain! The following day was much better, the sun came out and the wind died down. I had my first practice round with Karrie Webb, WOW! The time finally came when she joined team mate Ashlee and I on the 4th green. As she introduced herself, Hi I m Karrie, butterflies actually grew in my stomach! It was only a few years ago that I was watching the former world number one on TV or behind the ropes cheering her on, and now I m living my dream and playing golf with her! It was amazing playing holes with Karrie, learning how she strategically plays the course, technically hits the ball and mentally composes herself. I threw a few questions at Karrie and absorbed so much information that I know will make me a better player in the future! The following day in my second practice round I was lucky to score the last two holes with Suzann Petterson! Watching her smash the ball a mile live in action in front of my eyes was so surreal compared to seeing it on the screens! Lastly, playing with MORGAN PRESSEL! After the second day I was tremendously proud of my efforts in making the cut and was excited for the last two days! After my second round we had to wait a few hours before the draw had been posted. I texted Matt from Golf Australia to find out who I had been paired with and he replied with 1027 with Morgan Pressel!!!! I literally jumped up and down with joy, another dream yet about to be lived! It was a spectacular day playing with Morgan, especially after I discovered common interests we both shared: the love for New York City and TV show Gossip Girl! The Women’s Open week required some hard work, dedication and routine. Each morning before I went out on the course, I had a particular warm up regime to follow. I would use my spikey balls and different stretches to loosen up before leaving around an hour to hit golf balls at the range and do some putting. After my round, back at the hotel I would cool down by doing more spikey ball work and having cold ice baths/hot & cold showers. Food plays an imperative role for a successful athlete, especially a golfer! My love for food is beyond describable! For breakfast I usually have fruits (bananas, oranges) covered in yogurt topped with muesli. On the golf course I carry many snacks in the bag to nibble on during my round. This includes a wrap/sandwich, raw nuts, muesli bars and more pieces of fruit! Dinner varies each night; I like to enjoy a range of cuisines. During the Open I cooked some vegies and chicken at home, or went out to restaurants in Melbourne; I recommend Cafe Blah Blah in Cheltenham & Claypots Seafood at St Kilda! Conclusive: it is important for one to fuel their body with healthy nutrients! Everything in moderation is the key 🙂 Cathleen Santoso is a member of the 2012 Junior National Squad. To find out more about Cathleen, click here. Next month we&aposll introduce you to Cameron Smith and find out what he has been up to since his victory at the 2012 Australian Men&aposs Stroke Play in January.