‘Macau title was special’

[1]

Gaganjeet Bhullar

Year 2012 was special for Gaganjeet Bhullar. The Kapurthala golfer, who won twice and finished fifth on the Asian Tour Order of Merit last year, says he “will take a lot of positives from 2012” and is keen to build up on as the new season gets under way.

The Indian ace reflects on a successful season, singles out the highlight of 2012 and one golf shot that he would like to re-hit. Excerpts:

How do you look back at 2012?
It was a great season. I had a couple of top-10s, top-fives and two victories. There is still a lot to learn but I have a lot of positives from last season.

What was the highlight for you?
The victory at the Venetian Macau Open. Every victory is special but the win in Macau was very special because I won it wire-to-wire. I’ve done that a couple of times in India but to do it on the international level proves that you are a frontrunner.

What was the low point for you?
There were a couple but from my point of view, I usually look at things in a positive way and keep moving forward.

If you could re-hit one shot, which would that be?
It will probably be from the Hero Indian Open tournament on Sunday. I played really bad on number 16 where I carded a double bogey.
I wish I could hit that tee shot on the fairway and may be get a birdie and finish higher up on the leaderboard.
What was your favourite tournament of 2012?
The Macau Open because I won the tournament and it is a very nice city.

What have you learned about yourself in 2012?
I’ve been trying to stay patient for a long time and I think I handled it well. Patience will definitely help me over the years.

Which aspect of your game will you focus on during the off-season?
My short game. I would love to practice day-in and day-out on my short game and bring it up to a higher level.

Who do you think is the next big star on the Asian Tour?
There are so many players out here and I cannot point to one. I was told by somebody that there are so many players from the US who will be playing in the Qualifying School.
There are a lot of talented young guys from India as well. It will be exciting to be on the Asian Tour in 2013 and I am looking forward to the challenge.