Golf: Vikkash makes a memorable pro debut

Student Vikkash Babu made it a memorable baptism into the professional ranks by registering a hole-in-one in The Laguna National-SPGA Golf Series yesterday.

The 18-year-old ITE College Central mechanical technology student, who became an A pro only last month, aced the 161-metre third hole at Laguna National's Masters course with a seven-iron.

"It was my career's third hole-in-one, but I treasure this very much," said Vikkash (above), who credited his businessman dad S Maniam for his major involvement in golf.

Big Impression

Vikkash was introduced to the game by his dad when he was only five, and since then he has made a big impression on the local golf scene, winning school, club and national honours before becoming a B pro eight months ago.

He has worked hard to balance golf and studies and, although a lucrative professional career is his big ambition, he realises that academics are just as important.

A member of both Orchid and Warren, he practises regularly after school at both clubs.

He shot a four-over 76 yesterday to lie 21st among 55 golfers in the three-day competition, and also bagged $500 each from Orchid, Warren and NTUC.

Singapore's No. 1 pro Mardan Mamat leads with a 68, two shots ahead of Singapore Professional Golfers' Association president M Murugiah and Zaw Moe.

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