Aditi Ashok carded a three-under 67 in the third round to hold on to the second position, and remain in strong contention for a gold medal.
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Professional Golfers’ Association of India President Romit Bose is backing Aditi Ashok to win a historic gold in the sport, having impressed one and all during the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. Aditi carded a three-under 67 in the third round to hold on to the second position, and remain in strong contention for a gold medal. India has not won a single medal in golf in the history of the Olympics, which seems likely to be shattered soon enough. The nation has further not registered a gold medal in any sport since shooter Abhinav Bindra’s exploits in the 2008 Bejing Olympics.
“Aditi is well capable of making a soaring comeback on Saturday in Round 4 and winning a historic gold medal. United States’ Nelly Korda currently enjoys a slender lead, but the same can be overcome by the Indian golfer if she brings her quality experience to the fore,” says Romit in an exclusive interaction with Sportslumo.
The Professional Golfers’ Association of India President is considered India’s foremost golf educator. Romit enjoys immense knowledge and experience about the game, and believes that the heavy rain and thunderstorms expected tomorrow will play a crucial role in determining proceedings.
“Heavy rain and thunderstorms have been predicted on Saturday, which the competing golfers will have to be wary about. However, Aditi has gained a lot of understanding of conditions over the years, which will help her make calculated decisions. The presence of her mother who is constantly by her side in the role of a caddy, will help relax the nerves. Aditi’s parents have backed her through thick and thin over the years, guiding her in the right direction.”
While golf enthusiasts across the country are supremely enthusiastic about a maiden medal, the facilities made available for golfers is certainly an area of concern. One is expected to shell out for indulging in training on a golf course, which is hardly the case for sports like cricket and football. Many potential golfers give up the game despite enjoying immense potential, due to the lack of support from the authorities.
Some of the top Indian golfers are forced to travel and train abroad on personal expenditure, which can be quite difficult to juggle for an athlete not enjoying strong financial support. There is no reimbursement made available even in case of hotel tariff, expenses on food which can be demoralising.
Romit is optimistic that Aditi’s success will spark the beginning of a revolution in India, with increased support and investment.
“I hope her excellent display results in increased focus and support towards golf. While there is a lot of talent in the nation, potential golfers are often forced to wage a lone battle which should certainly not be the case. Aditi has been fortunate to enjoy a lot of support from her parents. However, not every emerging golfer is blessed enough in this regard. Additional support and facilities will definitely help us perform even better in the Paris 2024 Olympics.”
Romit is the founder of the brand “Romit Bose Golf Schools” which is setting up academies and learning centres across the country. His company has also set up The Champions Junior Golf Tour (CJGT) as part of the Champions Junior Training Program (CJTP), in which junior tournaments are conducted on a monthly basis. The latter is a very popular junior program in Northern India with an average participation by 75 youngsters on a monthly basis. The tour carries World Amateur Golf Ranking points and Junior Golf Scoreboard points.
