Monday, I had the pleasure of doing a virtual interview with pro golfer Brittany Fan. In this fun interview, Fan talked about everything from her golf career to favorite destinations to mangoes..
Born in Hawaii 25 years ago yesterday, Fan says she started late in golf. Despite that “late” start, Fan quickly excelled. Fan was victorious in the Hawaii State Junior Golf Association Match Play and the Makalei Invitational Ladies Championship before she headed to the University of Colorado where she put her name all over the school's record books.
Only the second CU women's golfer from Hawaii, Fan stated she chose CU for the coaching staff’s experience and passion for the game. She spoke in more detail about choosing CU in the interview. I joked with her about leaving the beautiful weather of Hawaii, but Fan was quick to point out her love of Colorado weather.
During her time at CU, Fan racked up many awards and honors. Notable achievements included:
- 2014-15 CU's Freshman Athlete of the Year
- 2014-15 WGCA Academic All-America Scholar
- 2015-16 Pac-12 All-Academic honorable mention
- 2017-18 Pac-12 All-Academic honorable mention
- 2017-18 honorable mention All-Pac-12
- 2017-18 honorable mention WGCA All-America
- 2017-18 team's Co-MVP Award
Fan also finished her CU career with the second best season stroke average (73.16) through all 14 events.
After graduating from CU in 2018, Fan quickly notched two pro tournament wins in 2019, her first year as a pro. Those victories occurred on the Cactus Tour, which features many first year golfers gaining valuable experience. The Cactus Tour leads to the Symetra Tour, formerly known as the LPGA Futures Tour. It is the official developmental tour of the LPGA Tour, which is the top step in women's golf and the goal of the young hopefuls.
In the interview, Fan talked about her start in golf, her golf role model, the challenges of golfing in Hawaii's conditions, her passion for Hawaii and so much more, including mangoes. In one of the funnier segments, Fan answered my question about the differences in Hawaiian mangoes versus other mangoes. I appreciate her willingness to go off topic a bit and I learned valuable info about my beloved mangoes.
I have no doubt Fan will go far in golf. She has a fantastic attitude and work ethic. I was very impressed by Fan's approach to the game and her thought process. Clearly, she is well-grounded, determined and highly focused.
I mentioned to Fan she would be a great spokesperson for the Hawaiian Tourism Authority. She's articulate, passionate and personable. These qualities would also make for a great career in media, if she so chooses down the line.
I really appreciate Fan's time and consideration in the interview. Despite technical video issues on my side, this was one of the most fun interviews I have ever done. Hopefully, Fan will allow us to interview her again sometime in 2021 to get an update.
Admittedly, I am not a golf expert, but I know enough successful elite athletes to know Fan has everything it takes to be a winner for a long time. It is going to be a lot of fun following her and watching her career progress.
On a final note, Global Women's Sports Radio and I would like to wish Fan a very happy 25th birthday!
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