Amelie Ready to Blossom on High-Profile Stage

Wellington, New Zealand: Amelie Blossom Ng is among the youngest competitors in this week’s Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) championship, but the 14-year-old is not afraid to dream big.

While the Singaporean debutant will tee it up for the first time against the region’s top amateurs, including defending champion Jeneath Wong of Malaysia and Korean Oh Soo-min, ranked 11th in the world, Ng cannot wait to get started at Royal Wellington Golf Club tomorrow.

She said: “I’m really excited for this week. It’s my first time in New Zealand and it’s amazing. I was surprised at first because I didn’t expect to get the invitation. But after I processed it, I felt really proud of my progress and felt that my hard work has finally paid off. Of course, there’s a long way to go, but I’m really happy to be here.

“I can’t wait to play. The layout is different from what I usually play … it’s longer and the greens are tricky. Putting will be tough, but I think I have the game to play well and I hope to make the cut. I’ll just try to play my best in every round and stay positive for every shot. Hopefully I make the cut and end up winning … hopefully!”

One of five Singaporeans featuring in New Zealand, alongside Chen Xingtong, Aamiya Koul, Inez Ng and Sydnie Ng, Amelie knows the rewards that come with winning the WAAP are immense, with invitations to three Major championships and several other elite amateur tournaments.

“Winning would give me a lot of exposure that I’ve never had before,” she said. “It’s inspiring being in Wellington, watching the others practice. I was just like: ‘Wow.’ It definitely motivates me, as I think I’m one step closer to turning professional.”

Rated among the finest junior golfers in Singapore, Amelie has won events at home and in Malaysia and Japan, and finished runner-up at the Singapore National Women’s Amateur, as well as fifth at the Hong Kong Girls’ Junior Open.

Part of her preparation for this week’s test included playing from the men’s tees at home. “I’ve been playing a lot from the back tees because I know this week will be long,” said Amelie, who's been spell-bound by the beauty of the iconic Royal Wellington.

“I was taken aback. You don’t get this type of golf course in Singapore, with the hills and mountains and the lush trees. The conditions are amazing.”