Ciganda credits Nadal, Garcia tips for success
GURGAON: Keep aside the luxury quotient, hopping in and out of flights and hotels, and living out of suitcases; life on tour takes a toll on the body and mind alike. Following a regimen is known to bring down stress, still it’s the mind that need extra care, as that’s where golf is played. As the highest-ranked player (world No 20) at the Hero Women’s Indian Open, Carlota Ciganda knows a thing or two on competing consistently, and successfully, at the highest level.
A self-proclaimed “fan of all Spanish athletes”, the 27-year-old from Pamplona is of course inspired by
Sergio Garcia, but getting to know Rafael Nadal from close quarters and lessons shared over some golf stand out.
“Even on the course, his work ethics were unbelievable. He is a great example of an athlete,” said Carlota at the DLF Golf & Country Club. The tenacity and refusal to give up rubbed off on the twotime winner on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA).
If the pursuit of success entails shutting out the world, then so be it. If feathers are ruffled on the way, never mind. Asked about her aloofness from the media, Aditi Ashok attributed it to perception. “I don’t avoid them. In fact, during a tournament I make it an effort to reach out. But if they do more than what’s required, I stay away as being focused is important,” said the defending champion.
Yet to take a call on setting up base in the US to pursue her dreams on the LPGA more freely, getting better at golf means Aditi is travelling a lot more. Senior pro Belen Mozo is aware of the effect of travel on the body and mind.
Renowned for her fitness regime, the Spaniard is perplexed by the lack of awareness on the need to stay fit. “They don’t understand why we work out. Given our schedules, it can be tiring. More than the body, a lot of work goes into the mind, as that might
give in.”