Bhullar urges govt support to take golf to masses

Ruing that golf is still beyond the the common man's reach, five-time Asian Tour winner Gaganjeet Bhullar said it's high time that government support the sport with 2016 Olympics in mind.

"Let me tell you, golf is still not a common man's sport. With most of our golf courses run by the real estate, a middle class person cannot afford to take up the sport.

"Especially when golf is now part of the 2016 Olympics, I'm looking forward to the day when government play an active role. Things can only change the day Ministry of sports comes up with public driving course and golf course," the 25-year-old said.

The Kapurthala lad, who got this year's Arjuna in a first in seven years, however, said things were looking bright.

"I'm really thankful to the Government of India for giving this award to a golfer after a gap of seven years. It gives a great sense of achievement... I hope it will take about 10 to 15 years time then the whole scenario will change."

World ranked 148, Bhullar is eyeing to break into top 50 by playing more at the European circuit in circa 2014.

"Right now I'm world ranked 148. Nobody cares about that ranking. It's only when you come in the top 15 zone, people start looking at you. My goal is to come in top 50 by playing more in the European circuit in 2014, that's my goal.

"I played well in 2013. It started the year on a positive note, finishing second in the Avantha Masters. Then in the second-half, I won the Arjuna. The year has come to an end with an high winning the Indonesia Open (early this month)."

Fresh from his win at the Indonesia Open, Bhullar is part of a five sponsor spots to compete against the Rolex PGTI Order of Merit in the Year-Ender McLeod Russel Tour Championship beginning Thursday at the RCGC.

Terming this an ultimate tournament in the PGTI Calendar, he said: " This is is of the biggest tournament in the PGTI Calendar Year, you have to respect that. At the end of the year, ultimately it comes down to this tournament. It's a great opportunity for the top six to win the order of merit."

Image: Gaganjeet Bhullar

Photograph: Michael Dodge/Getty Images