Beautiful, young and talented – meet Alizah Kendler
Alizah Kendler, aged 21 speaks exclusively to Odile Faludi.
Alizah Kendler
What inspired you to play golf?
I started playing once a month when I was 13 years old but I got my handicap of 45 (the highest) seven years ago. I fell into the game because my older brother was playing a lot and my Mum was driving him to the course to practice every day while I was going home to do homework. I decided it wasn’t fair and decided to tag a long. Another aspect that attracted me to the game was that I loved driving the electric golf carts and thought that if I started playing golf I could drive them all the time.
What has been your favourite moment so far in your career?
My favourite moment was in June 2010 when I represented Australia at the World University Golf Championships in Spain. I finished 23rd out of 53 girls. There were 23 countries competing and I had an absolute ball. One of my other achievements which are high on my list is in 2009 when I won the ladies Vanuatu Open which was also my first international competition.
Is it difficult playing a game that is so heavily dominated by men?
I don’t really feel disadvantaged. The men will always be stronger and play at a higher level than the women which means it is more interesting for spectators to watch therefore there is a lot more money in men’s golf. I think a problem with women’s golf is the stereotypes attached to it. It is stereotyped as an old person’s sport and doesn’t usually appeal to younger people.
What is your favourite course?
Asking a golfer who has played on hundreds of courses which is their favourite is a little difficult. I am a very big fan of The Australian which is in Sydney. Another one of my favourites is Bonville near Coffs Harbour.
