Asian stint thrills Na

CARMONA, Cavite — Kevin Na is enjoying his return to competitive golf, saying his renewed enthusiasm for the game has helped him sharpen his form at the 108th Philippine Open.

The five-time PGA Tour winner said he always looks forward to competing in Asia, where he began his professional career, and welcomed the chance to play more tournaments while working on his game at Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club.

Na finished the opening round with a three-under 69 for a tie at the third spot in the opening round of the final leg of the Asian Tour season.

“I always enjoy playing in Asia. This is where I started and I always enjoy coming back. I’m working on my game a little bit, I’m excited to play golf again and I wanted to play some tournaments, so I’m excited to be here,” Na said.

The 42-year-old American said he has been spending considerable time on the practice range, with fellow golfer Anthony Kang even noticing how much work he puts into his game.

“I come out early, practice, and Anthony Kang was telling me the commentators were saying, ‘Man, you’re grinding on it.’ I said, ‘Man, I like golf now.’ And that’s probably helping me play better,” he said.

Na acknowledged that there is always room for improvement, stressing that golf requires constant work to maintain consistency and feel.

“Everything, everything. You can always be better. This game is such a hard game. One minute you think you have it, the next minute you don’t. You have to constantly practice to keep your feel and keep your game,” Na said. “It’s a full-time job.”

Asked what advice he would give young golfers in Asia aspiring to compete at the highest level, Na offered a straightforward formula: distance off the tee and putting.

“Hit it far. Hit it far and make putts. If you can do those two things, you’ve got a chance,” he said.