THE DIGEST
Harry's turn

On the tee Name: Harinder Gupta Age: 24 Home: Chandigarh

As an amateur, Harinder Gupta won two Indian Opens (2002, '03) in his category, both when still in his teens. Since then, the road to fulfillment has been strewn with swing-technique distractions. However, victory at the PGTI Players Championship-in a play off, and, fittingly, in front of his home supporters at Chandigarh G.C.-could well turn out to be career-defining.

Gupta turned pro in 2004, and won twice the following year (Servo Masters, Digboi, and Hero Chandigarh Open) but a cantankerous swing stalled further success. "Earlier, my swing was very 'handsy'. I have tried to bring the shoulder into play more, and there's a definite improvement," admits Gupta. Admirably, he figured his swing out for himself through regular practice on the range.

"I'm more comfortable correcting my flaws on my own rather than relying on a coach." Gupta's happy with his iron-play but is still searching for more consistency with the driver. Now, it's just a matter of getting everything working together.

Gupta would like a crack at the Asian Tour Q-School, but is looking for someone to back him. "Asia's where the money is, and you can make a name for yourself there, but it's tough to be a pro abroad without a sponsor." Until then, he'll be doing the hard yards on the domestic tour. And teeing it up with the members at Chandigarh G.C. (occasionally, with a certain Mr. J.M. Singh when he's in town). "Guys like Jeev (Milkha Singh) and (Amandeep) Johl, you learn a lot just playing with them."

Asiad 2002 team mate Shiv Kapur feels Gupta has the talent to be one of India's best-"He just needs to show more desire." The City Beautiful awaits her next hero.

By Sharad Kohli

July 2008