Interview With
Nikki Garrett
by Elspeth Burnside

Nikki Garrett arrived on the 2006 Ladies’ European Tour with a great track record from the Australian amateur circuit. She also had the catwalk appeal that is becoming part and parcel of the modern women’s game. In other words, she had the whole package to make it big on the professional scene. At the end of her first year, she has more than lived up to her reputation as someone who combines good looks with great golf.

Thanks to a terrific finish to the Dubai Ladies’ Masters, she clinched the Ryder Cup Wales Rookie of the Year award. As the sun set on the glorious final day in Dubai, Nikki and boyfriend Brian Rees – who had taken on the caddie duties that week – were ready to enjoy a massive end-of-season celebration. But, before the champagne was popped, Nikki took time to speak to Bunkered’s Elspeth Burnside.

Did your first season on the Ladies’ European Tour exceed expectations?

Absolutely. My only real goal was to keep my card and so to finish 12th on the money-list was way beyond anything I thought possible. I never even dreamt of winning the Rookie of the Year title. But I’m delighted to win it – it’s a real bonus. To have my name alongside players such as Laura Davies, Annika Sorenstam and Karrie Webb makes me feel very proud.

What’s been the highlight of your rookie year?

My big week came at the Wales Ladies’ Championship of Europe where I finished third behind Linda Wessberg and Laura Davies. I was in contention right up until the end and enjoyed every minute. I was actually interviewed for my local radio back home in New South Wales in Australia, and I found that more nerve-wracking than playing the golf. But it was a real fun week.

I then went on to finish third again in the following tournament in Norway. I suppose it was these two weeks that really set me up to be the Rookie of the Year.

What’s the best and worst aspects of playing golf for a living?

The best is definitely all the travelling and getting to see so many different parts of the world. My favourite place is Spain – I love it for the shopping. The worst is having to travel with just a couple of suitcases and having to make do with the same clothes for months on end. I’m a clothes person, but you can’t afford to buy too many things to cart around.

You finished second in the 2004 St Rule Trophy at St Andrews. You must be looking forward to playing over the Old Course again at the 2007 Weetabix Women’s British Open?

I remember the St Rule Trophy really well. I finished second to Sweden’s Louise Stahle and had a great time. I shot under par and really enjoyed it. St Andrews is such a quaint place. Unfortunately, the rookie title doesn’t get me straight into the Weetabix next year but hopefully I can qualify. Four competitive rounds over the Old Course would be a real treat.