When Kelsey Bennett prepared her checklist for what to pack ahead of the Australian Women’s Classic at Bonville on NSW Coffs Coast this week, it was hard to tell whether her golf clubs or surfboard were at the top of the list.
As much as Bennett loves playing at Bonville Golf Resort which she’s been doing since first being recognised as a talented junior, she loves surfing at a nearby break almost as much.
“This is one of my favourite surf spots up here at Sawtell so I was definitely bringing the surfboard,” Bennett said.
“Last year we were up at Tweed and here in Coffs and I brought my board up and we were surfing at both spots.
“I drove up for this event so I thought I’d better take the board.”
After a brilliant amateur career, the 23-year-old turned professional nearly four months ago. Bennett said trying to maintain the same attitude she mainined as a successful amateur has played a part in her recording a string of solid results in recent times.
“Golf’s golf really. And that’s something that you need to make sure keep in your head that golf’s golf,” she said.
“I played all of these events last year as an amateur. The only thing that’s different now is I get a little cheque in my bank account most weeks.
“So I just need to focus on keeping golf golf and enjoy it like I did as an amateur.”
Bennett is one of the pre-tournament favourites ahead of this week’s Australian Women’s Classic, and she feels like her game is currently in a position to warrant that status.
“I’m feeling pretty good. I struck the ball really well last week but just didn’t manage to score overly well but that’s OK, at least I’ve got that ball striking back so I’m feeling confident,” she said.
