Having commenced their golfing journeys at a tender age, both Pranavi S. Urs and Vidhatri K. Urs from Mysuru have not only brought pride to their city but also to the nation. While Pranavi has excelled in the professional circuit, Vidhatri is recognised as a prominent amateur golfer. S.N. Venkatnag Sobers of Star of Mysore had the opportunity to engage in a brief conversation with the talented golfing cousins to learn about their aspirations for 2024 and beyond.—Ed

‘Perseverance, determination motivate me to go stronger’ — Pranavi S. Urs 

Star of Mysore (SOM): How did you get into golf?

Pranavi Urs: My interest in golf sparked when I accompanied my brother and father to the golf course attached to the Mysore Race Club (MRC). Watching them play intrigued me, and I began to develop a passion for the sport. At the tender age of 7, I even participated in the South Zone Junior Golf Tournament, where I emerged victorious. This early success fuelled my determination to pursue golf further.

SOM: You faced an injury setback and had to withdraw from the Asian Games trials in 2022. However, you managed to qualify later on. What are your thoughts on this journey?

Pranavi Urs: It would be inaccurate to say luck wasn’t on my side. Indeed, I encountered a setback due to injury, forcing me to withdraw from the Asian Games trials in 2022. Yet, earning a spot in the Asian Games 2023 and representing my country on an international stage as a professional golfer is an achievement I deeply cherish. Reflecting on 2018, when I failed to qualify due to poor form, this journey has been a testament to perseverance and determination.

SOM: What’s your experience as a full-time member of the Ladies European Tour (LET)?

Pranavi Urs: Transitioning from playing the Ladies European Tour as a non-member to now participating as a full-fledged member brings a unique sense of accomplishment. This year, focusing solely on LET tournaments, I aim to perform consistently and aim for the top positions.

SOM: Travelling extensively is part and parcel of being a professional golfer. How do you manage the demands of constant travel?

Pranavi Urs: I’ve grown accustomed to the travel lifestyle, so there are no complaints from my end. During flights, I simply utilise the time to rest and rejuvenate. Each new week brings fresh challenges and I approach them with readiness and determination.

SOM: What’s it like to play alongside Vidhatri Urs?

Pranavi Urs: While we haven’t had many opportunities to play together in the past year, whenever we do, it’s always enjoyable banter on the course. Vidhatri is a talented player who has shown significant improvement as an amateur. I’m genuinely delighted to see her progress.

Pranavi Urs hails from a family residing in Lakshmipuram. She is the daughter of Sharath Chandra Raj Urs and M.L. Kaivalya Urs and she has an elder brother Samarth Urs, who oversees the family business.

‘I am planning to leap into professional status this year’ — Vidhatri K. Urs

Star of Mysore (SOM): You’ve excelled in the amateur golf circuit. What motivated you to pursue golf as a sport?

Vidhatri Urs: Watching my cousin Pranavi, along with her brother, play golf at the Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar Golf Club (JWGC) sparked my interest in the sport. Eventually, I joined the junior camp and from that moment on, there was no turning back.

SOM: Winning the All India Ladies Golf Championship and defeating top-ranked players, must be a remarkable achievement. How does it feel?

Vidhatri Urs: Participating in the tournament for the past 3-4 years, I always harboured the desire to emerge victorious. Despite playing in numerous tournaments consecutively without clinching the championship, I remained determined. Finally achieving victory in the championship brings an indescribable sense of joy and fulfilment.

SOM: You’re on the brink of transitioning into a professional golfer. What are your thoughts on this?

Vidhatri Urs: After finishing second in the amateur circuit last season, I decided to continue as an amateur for the opportunity to participate in more international tournaments, which I believe will provide invaluable experience. I plan to leap into professional status by the end of this year.

SOM: Can you share some details about your upcoming tournaments?

Vidhatri Urs: Currently, I’m preparing for the Women’s Golf Association of India (WGAI) tournament at the DLF Golf Course in Delhi, scheduled for March 11-15. Following that, I’ll be competing in The Queen Sirikit Cup, the Asia-Pacific Amateur Ladies Golf Team Championship, in New Zealand from March 18-23.

SOM: As one of the top-ranked amateur women golfers in India, what are your aspirations for the future?

Vidhatri Urs: My immediate goal is to attain the number 1 ranking in the Amateur Golf Circuit before transitioning into the professional realm. Ultimately, I aspire to represent my country at the Olympics.

SOM: Could you share some insights about Pranavi Urs?

Vidhatri Urs: Pranavi has showcased remarkable performance in recent years. It’s incredibly inspiring to have a family member whom I can look up to for guidance and support.

Vidhatri Urs is the daughter of M.L. Kantharaj Urs and R.N. Ramya Urs, residing in Lakshmipuram. She has an elder sister, Dyuthi Urs, who is completing her final engineering year, and a younger brother, Atray Urs, currently studying in Class 9.