Steven Lam

Hailed as one of the brightest prospects in Hong Kong golf, 18-year-old Lam speaks to David Cunningham III about his hopes for the future and how he intends on pulling through his current barren spell

Do you have any particular tournament experiences that you believe have made you a better golfer?
The 2008 R&A Junior Open [in England]. I was leading by three with five holes left, but I made a big mistake on the thirteenth that ended up costing me the trophy. Even though I lost, I was able to learn why I lost and have become a better golfer as a result and have gone on to win other tournaments. Also, I was able to play in the Asia-Pacific Panasonic Open, a Japan Golf Tour event, a couple of years ago [Lam made the cut]. My playing partner [for the third round] was Shingo Katayama and Ryo Ishikawa was in the group right in front of me. Through this experience I learnt how to stay calm in front of big crowds.

With respect, you currently seem to be in a slight slump. What would you say is the reason for this?
I have made a couple of swing changes as I wish to further improve my scores. But I started over thinking things too much. During last year’s Asian Games, I put way too much pressure on myself. My current situation has definitely been stressful and frustrating but nevertheless it has been a learning and maturing experience and I have never given up. I feel that I have pushed through this, and I now feel that I am swinging really well, and my ball striking is the best it has ever been. I feel that I am getting back in form, but I guess that only tournament results will truly tell. I am really looking forward to getting back out there and competing and showing what I’ve got.

What got you hooked on golf and what keeps you coming back?
Satisfaction. I like to compete with people all over the world, and golf is a challenge. I love the feeling of accomplishment I get when I reach my goals.

What or who drives you to succeed?
The amazing support that I receive from my family, the HKGA, my coaches Brad [Schadewitz, the national coach] and Wilson Choy, and my trainer Kape Sieber is what drives me.

Do you plan on playing college golf?
Definitely. I am still not entirely sure which school I want to go to yet but I would love to go to California because the weather is awesome for golf.

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