Chowrasia eyes titles next season

Bangkok, December 12 (UNI) But for some near-misses, including his much-talked about disqualification from the Mercuries Taiwan Masters, S S P Chowrasia might have been the Rookie of the Year of the Asian Tour.

Nevertheless, the 28-year-old Kolkata pro is satisfied with his eventful debut on the tour and is keen to do in the next season what he couldn't do this year -- win some titles.

As the tour moves to its last destination, Volvo Masters of Asia in Bangkok, Chowrasia will go all out to improve his present 41st rank on the UBS Order of Merit and end the year on a high note.

''My performances have been very good this season. I lost in play-off for the Indian Open title but I was happy. I'm now looking forward to 2007 and I'll be looking forward to winning a title next year,'' Chowrasia said.

''However, there's still one week to play this week and I'm looking forward to the Volvo Masters of Asia. I hope to play well.

My game feels okay. My driving was off in Hong Kong (last month) but I've practiced hard for the Volvo Masters of Asia,'' he added.

Recalling, his disqualification from Taiwan Masters where he was leading the field with 13 under after two rounds, Chowrasia reveals how he forgot to sign the card due to excitement.

''People still talk about my disqualification from the Mercuries Taiwan Masters. I remember I was 13 under and leading at the halfway stage but I didn't sign my scorecard.

''I was too excited as I played very well those first two rounds.

Now I will sign my scorecard first and then check the scores,'' he quipped.

Chowrasia said the exposure in the Asian Tour helped him immensely and he has become a much better player.

''I think I've improved a lot. The standard of play is high on the Asian Tour and I've had to practice hard to keep up. My putting has also been great this year which helps,'' said the pro, who learned the nuances of the game at Royal Calcutta Golf Club where his father was a greenskeeper.

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