Young golfer Kadin Neho ready for big stage

Kadin Neho. Photo/John Stone

Whangarei's Kadin Neho has been in the paper a fair bit in the last year or so. Last year the teenager won the New Zealand Amateur Championship, competed in the Youth Olympics, was part of the Whangarei Boys' High School team which won a secondary school title in Thailand, not to mention being in the Northland team and rating as one of Northland's best golfers. Now, Kadin has a chance at playing among the big boys in the New Zealand Open Championship next month. He has been named as one of four amateurs to take part in the championship at Queenstown, a rare opportunity for a Northlander. Here's what Kadin thought of his last year and competing in the New Zealand Open.

What did it mean to win the New Zealand Amateur title?

I went down just wanting to do the best that I could and making the cut was a goal I had made for myself. I was amazed that I won. It was a great feeling. Northland people were texting me with encouragement, I think they were on a high just like me.

What does it mean to you to earn a place in the New Zealand Open?

I'm just grateful to have the opportunity. Who wouldn't be? It's going to be a huge tournament.

How will you manage your nerves of playing in a big event?

The closer it gets, the more excited and nervous I become. I need to keep practising, and will take each day as it comes.

What do you know about the courses?

I've never played either of the courses, but have been studying them online, asking friends if they have any info on them etc. We are lucky to have such amazing courses in New Zealand.

What are your goals and expectations for the week?

Play steady golf, enjoy the atmosphere [and] do the best that I can and take in as much as I can from such a huge tournament.