Athlete of the Week: Kadi Pallastrone

Pineview junior Kadi Pallastrone, who plays golf for the Riverview Rams, recently took first place at the Riverview Invitational. She started golfing six years ago as an activity she could share with her dad, Rudy, and the two still play together. This week, Pallastrone tees off with the Sarasota Observer to talk about her recent success, the key to playing well and her plans after high school.

How did you get started playing golf?
My dad got me into it. He used to be really good. At his best, he was a 3 handicap.

When did you realize that golf was something you wanted to pursue seriously?
When I was about 13, I would play in the summer at GSJGA, and I found that I was pretty good at it. I hope to get a golf scholarship. My dream colleges would be the University of Pennsylvania, Duke or the University of Florida.

What was the hardest aspect of the game for you to learn?
Probably putting. It takes a lot of feel.

What do you consider to be your strongest skill?
I would say my short game and my chipping. I took a lot of time working on that, and I found it enjoyable, so I didn’t mind spending more time working on it.

Where do you struggle most?
My long irons are probably my biggest struggle. You have to be more accurate with them, so I try to put extra practice into them.

Who is your favorite golfer?
Rory McIlroy. He’s really good, and he has a good temperament. Plus, he’s from Ireland, so that’s cool.

Why do you think you played so well at the Riverview Invitational?
I have a good temperament for the game. I don’t really get mad. If I make a bad shot, I keep my head up. I also putted pretty well, and I made a few birdies, so that helped.

If you could play anywhere in the world, where would you play?
I’d like to play at Pebble Beach. It’s a beautiful golf course.

What’s the best golf advice you’ve ever received?
Take it one hole at a time, and don’t get discouraged. Don’t think about the last shot you made. Every shot is a new opportunity.