15-year-old junior golfer Anika Varma, who is currently ranked sixth with 238 points on the IGU Ladies Amateur Order of Merit has travelled to the USA and is presently getting coached under the watchful eyes of Noah Montgomery in Sacramento, California.
Noah is credited for the success of India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar who has won nine times (max by an Indian) on the Asian Tour and once on the European Tour and John Catlin, a star player who won thrice in 2018 on the Asian Tour, a feat not seen earlier on tour. This is just a tip of the iceberg which you could see of the success the man has brought with his players on all the different tours, which we will be highlighting in our next story on him.
Anika Varma answered our questions via mail and told us about the recent developments –
GDI – How did this sudden move to the USA happen and how did you make your mind to get coached from Noah Montgomery?
Anika – I wanted to challenge myself and have the best coaching facility available, therefore, the USA was the best option. The setup and infrastructure present here would take my golf to the next level.
After doing a lot of research we found out that Noah Montgomery is a renowned Golf Coach in this region and has been working with top PGA and European tour players.
GDI – Can we say this is a stepping stone to a permanent move to the USA for educational purposes later?
Anika – If presented the opportunity, I would like to pursue my career in Golf and Academics in the United States.
GDI – Which part of the game do you feel you need to work on and what differences you are finding in coaching methodology from India?
Anika – I strive to be a perfectionist; therefore, I feel that there is always room for improvement in every aspect of my game. Golf is not only about your short game and long game, but also about how mentally strong you are. During my time with Coach Montgomery, we have been working on keeping a positive mentality as well as pushing me out of my comfort zone on the golf course.
GDI – If you could comment on your overall experience coaching with Noah.
Anika – Thoughts and lessons given by Coach Montgomery give the student clarity in theory & in execution. He has a passion to produce champions in all fields and he spends time to get to know his students on a personal level which helps you to be more open and comfortable around him.
GDI – Where are you playing next?
Anika – US Girls Junior qualifying – Salinas.
IMG world master Junior- San Diego
US Women’s Amateur Qualifying – Roseville