Young Golfer Avani Prashanth Aims for Asian Games Success

At just 16 years old, Avani Prashanth from Bengaluru, India, is making headlines on the international golfing scene. Her remarkable talent lies in her ability to drive the ball nearly 270 yards on average, a distance comparable to some of the world’s best women golfers. Although still an amateur, Avani’s prowess off the tee has garnered attention and admiration.

Currently preparing for the Hangzhou Asian Games, Avani is honing her skills alongside fellow Indian golfers S Chikkarangappa and Khalin Joshi, who will be her teammates in China. Avani’s victory at the Queen Sirikit Cup in Manila earlier this year, where she dominated the field with a 10-shot margin, showcased her potential.

While the Asian Games will be her most high-profile event to date, Avani remains undaunted by the presence of World No.1 Ruoning Yin. Her goal is simple: to secure the gold medal. Avani, who has never been to China, plans to use a golfing app to familiarize herself with the West Lake Golf Course.

After the Asian Games, Avani has her sights set on the Ladies European Tour Qualifying School, with dreams of turning professional in January 2024 and aiming for a spot at the Paris Olympics.

What sets Avani apart is her unique golf swing, characterized by a small jump before striking the ball, contributing to her impressive clubhead speed and distance. While her long shots are noteworthy, Avani acknowledges that her short game, particularly chipping and putting, will be crucial to her success in Hangzhou.

Supported by her father, Prashanth M S, who has meticulously planned her long-term development as an athlete, Avani Prashanth is a rising star in the world of golf, with aspirations of achieving greatness on the international stage.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Indian Express