DIO IMPLANT LA OPEN

March 30, 2023

Gina Kim

Palos Verdes Golf Club

Quick Quotes

Q. All right, Gina, a nice way to start off, especially with the highs and lows of today's weather. Overall take me through today's round.

GINA KIM: Yeah, I mean, starting this morning it was hailing. Weather was obviously not ideal, so I knew that I had to really stick to my routine and stay more focused than before.

So I had a hot start. I had a lot of putts go in. I executed to the way I wanted to. You know, later on in the middle it was kind of stalling. Not as many birdies. Couple bogeys coming in.

But I knew I had some chances out there, so I was lucky to snag one more and make a really good par save on the last hole.

Overall really happy with what I accomplished today.

Q. Talk about some of the putts going in early. What are some of the most memorable shots you had out there?

GINA KIM: I would say, let's see, which hole was that? 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, the par-3. I actually almost holed it. I've hit some great shots. No. 2, that was my first birdie of the day. Had a solid putt; went in.

You know, I think there was a lot of good things happening at the beginning that just helped keep my momentum for the rest of the round.

Q. What does it mean to be able to -- this first round is definitely going to be different than some of the afternoon peeps. For you tomorrow, what are you taking from a round like this as you head into hopefully sunnier weather?

GINA KIM: Yeah, I think there is a lot to be proud of for myself. I'm really happy with the way I handled myself, just staying calm and sticking to my routine once again.

You know, hopefully the weather is better tomorrow, but I think I'm ready for whatever comes anyway, so feeling good.

Q. And you are one of the college alums that have played this course before. Definitely sets up differently than those that played in college. For you, what are some memories of competing here with your team at Palos Verdes?

GINA KIM: Yeah, obviously I remember pushing on this golf course, which was probably the worst mistake I've ever made in my collegiate career.

I had some great memories. Actually our team won here by a mile in 2020 before COVID hit, so that was the last time I came back here. Well, before I turned pro.

So I've been feeling great. I've seen this course before, so I feel very comfortable out here.