Jonathan Moore of the United States opens up about the highs and lows in his life which include the loss of his brother, his competitive edge and his training regime in Michigan. Excerpts:
What psyches you up especially when you’re in contention?
The feeling of pressure that gets to you and seeing how well you can handle it. Because when it comes, you know you’ve a chance to do something special and win a tournament.
What goes through your mind each time you step onto the first tee?
I try to be thankful for the opportunity to play golf. When I play my best, I usually have a thankful attitude.
Have you ever been overwhelmed by an occasion?
I’ve had my moments when I’ve been so nervous that I couldn’t stand still. If I can recall, it would probably have to the on the last hole of the Walker Cup in 2007 when my body had so much adrenaline running through it that I was laterally shaking.
What gives you an edge over your rivals on the course?
My patience.
How do you keep yourself in tip-top physical condition?
I’ve been very blessed to be educated by a trainer whose name is Gary Grey. It’s called the Grey institute which is based out of Michigan and he has lots of good techniques that are functional exercises specific for golf.
After a 65, would you go back to the range or take the rest of the day off?
It depends on what Claire (my wife) has planned for us that day.
How about after a 78?
I usually hit the range.
What motivates you to excel in the game?
I want to bring out the best in my ability that god has given me. I want to capitalize on that and not let whatever potential I have go to waste.
What do you dislike the most on the golf course?
It’s probably when you try to do something and you just can’t seem to do it. Sometimes that’s just the way golf is. You know what you’re supposed to do but you can’t seem to do it.
Describe your happiest moment on the golf course?
When I was part of the team that won the National Championship for the Oklahoma state cowboys in 2006.
How about the most embarrassing moment?
During the second round of the Indian Open in 2011. It was my first year on the Asian Tour and I had the Delhi belly and needless to say in the middle of the round, I had some problems. (* Despite the problems, Moore shot his lowest round score of 69 during the second round. He eventually finished in tied-39th place)
Tell us one thing about you that not many people know?
I had a brother who passed away when he was 12. I was only eight years old then and I think that shaped who I am in a lot of ways.
Can you recall your first ever full 18 holes and what did you shoot?
I don’t remember my first full 18 but I remember my first competitive nine holes where I shot a 63!
How would you describe yourself as a golfer?
I’m very focused and I putt well.
Which golf course do you really want to play on?
Augusta National Golf Club. I grew up watching players play on that course so I really want to play there.
How long did it take you to get to single handicap?
Not very long. I remembered shooting a 68 when I was 13 years old. So that was pretty quick.
Would you prefer to play on a 7,700 yard golf course or a shorter but penal golf course, why?
I like hitting with my driver so probably if I can use it a lot, I go with the longer one.
What is your ultimate goal in golf?
I would like to win a Major championship. That would be the ultimate.
About Jonathan MOORE
Country: United States
Date Of Birth: April 17, 1985
Residence: Oklahoma, United States
Family: Married, wife Claire
Turned Pro: 2007
ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR WIN: (1) 2011 PGM-ADT-CCM Impian Classic, Malaysia.
AMATEUR WIN: 2006 NCAA Golf Championship, United States.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: After winning the Asian Development Tour Order of Merit in 2011, Jonathan came of age in 2012 when he finished seventh on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit. He finished second behind Gaganjeet Bhullar in the Venetian Macau Open after charging up the leaderboard with a closing 65 and also runner-up behind Sergio Garcia at the season-ending Iskandar Johor Open following a sizzling 61 on the last day. Jonathan won his first Asian Development Tour title at the 2011 PGM-ADT-CCM Impian Classic in Malaysia. He closed with a 67 to defeat Artemio Murakami of the Philippines by three strokes.
Subsequently finished top of the ADT Order of Merit to earn his Asian Tour card for the 2012 season. He was a former US Walker Cup team member. His wife Claire caddies for him full-time and he credits the partnership for their success. Represented the United States in the Walker Cup
