Swinging Bogeyman

In the recent years, Bengaluru has emerged as the golfing hub of the country. With India’s numero uno golfer Anirban Lahiri setting the path, several youngsters and seasoned pros have shifted their base to the city. Following closely in Lahiri’s footsteps is another Karnataka lad, S Chikkarangappa. Chikka has slowly climbed the ladder with top finishes, and after his first win in the CG Open in Mumbai in 2013, the most memorable moment for the golfer, he has been following his motto to the core, i.e “to never give up and always keep working hard.”

Adding another feather to his cap, Chikkarangappa is all set to represent India in the World Cup of Golf, to be held in Kingston Heath Golf Club in Melbourne in November. The 22-year-old pro, who has mastered the courses, couldn’t hide his childlike excitement as he spoke about the honour of representing his country. “Firstly, I would thank SSP (Chawrasia) for picking me. There are so many top golfers, and for me to get selected is an honour. It is a great opportunity to represent my country. Since the time I have seen Anirban represent India at the tournament, it has always been my dream to play at the World Cup. After turning pro in 2013, for three years, I have only played for myself, so this (for me) is a golden opportunity to represent the billions of people from my country. It’s a dream come true,” said the golfer, who enjoys spending his free time at his second home that is the Eagleton.

Chikka, who won the Eagleburg Masters in Eagleton last week, like all other Indian kids is a die-hard cricket fan. “I have never wanted to take up cricket as a sport. I always wanted to take up something different, off the track, something where I have to achieve everything by myself. Golf fitted the bill perfectly, and I have enjoyed playing it. On the other hand, cricket is a sport I love watching. Like every other Indian, I’m a die-hard fan of the sport,” said the golfer, whose sporting idol is none other than Tiger Woods.

Chikka, at just 22 years of age, has the child in him coming up for breathers often enough.

“I love watching funny stuff on the television, especially competitions and programmes involving kids in them. I generally enjoy watching all this with my mother. I enjoy spending time with my mother and watching serials with her too. In front of her, I still behave like a five-year-old. My family has been my pillar of strength always. Even though monetarily, it was extremely tough, mentally they have always stood by me,” added the die-hard Rajnikanth fan.

The Bengaluru lad, who is always on the move due to tournaments, was quick to point out that if given a chance, he would love to travel to Madagascar. “I want to go on a holiday to Madagascar. I love jungles, wildlife and nature. Whenever I’m home, I visit the nearby jungle lodges,” added Chikka.

The golfer, who looks up to his friend and colleague Anirban Lahiri, has a goal for himself five years down the line.

“I want to be the best in the world,” opined Chikka, whose only superstitious belief is that he does not touch the trophy before the tournament.

Favourite holiday: Madagascar Sporting motto: Never give up Favourite food: Home food Question most asked: How do I keep my nerve and play so calmly till the end Favourite city: Pune Sporting hub: Bengaluru is the golfing hub of India. Anirban has opened the doors for golfers and the Garden City has the right support and facilities to help golf grow How can the game grow: The game should be easily made available. Clubs should have driving range facilities for all