Karen Lunn

Home Town/City Cowra, NSW

What got you into golf, who helped you , who encouraged you ?

It was a school sport at Cowra High School. Thats how I started. The pro Rick Lestrange and my parents Col and Val encouraged me to keep it up and work hard. Brief Playing History First played when I was 11 and was hooked straight away. It became very serious for me and at 14 my handicap was 3. I started playing junior and junior international tournaments then and turned pro February 1985, at 18yrs 10 mths.

Who are the people who have most influenced you ?

Golf teachers Rick Lestrange, Norman Von Nida, Charlie Earp, Lawrence Farmer, Martin Hall, my parents Col and Val and sister Mardi.

What do you recall as you greatest moments in your career and how did it make you feel ?

Winning the 1993 British Open without a doubt. Walking through the crowd on the 18th hole was something I'll never forget. The crowd were great ant it was special as England has been my home away from home for many years. Also my sister Mardi missed the cut and followed me every hole the last round and was there to say 'well done' when I walked off the last green.

What are your greatest challenges ?

The back injury I suffered in 1995 set me back a good couple of years. It still bothers me but I work hard to keep it as strong as possible.

Coming back after losing my father was the hardest though. You lose interest in everything and golf didn't mean anything for a long time. It put my life into perspective.

Where do you see yourself today and where do you want to be in 5 years ?

I still have a lot I want to achieve. Especially want to win a tournament in the US. I have won in Europe, Asia and Australia.

Hopefully still playing in 5 years but you never know. I plan to go back studying next year to prepare for retirement.

What feelings motivate you when playing in high level competition ?

The buzz you get when you have a chance to win a tournament is indescribable. It makes all the hard work seem worth it.

What do you like to do when you are not playing golf ?

Relax, anything but golf.

I love to watch all sports on T.V. I follow the Australian Cricket team passionately (my boys are No.1 ). Since living in London I have become a big soccer fan as well so I go to watch it as much as possible.

I swim and work out when I am at home. Not as much as on tour.

I also read a lot and love music. Unfortunately I also love gambling and do that too much.