9,000 MILES FOR USGTF CERTIFICATION

Rupak Prasad Acharya of Kathmandu, Nepal, recently completed his Level III certification at the Indian Hills Golf Course in Fort Pierce, Florida, under the watchful and competent eye of veteran examiner Bob Wyatt.  Acharya is truly a world away from home: As the crow flies, approximately 9,000 miles, or 20 flying hours to be specific!   Nepal is a small nation nestled in a valley between the northeastern borders of India and the southwestern border of China. Its capitol city, Kathmandu, is also the country’s largest city with approximately one million inhabitants, whose varied culture dates back more than one thousand years.   Acharya is the assistant golf professional at the Gokarna Forest Golf Resort and Spa, literally in the shadows of the Himalayan Mountains. This course is approximately nine kilometers from the Kathmandu airport, making his course a must-see for travel-minded USGTF and WGTF members. The course plays to 6,700 yards and can be played year-round in the mild climate of this region. However, October to May are the very best times to visit.   Acharya has been playing golf since the age of five, and now at age 30 is married and has a son. He currently plays various local tour events and wishes to expand his playing to the Asian tour, as well as playing more events on the pro tour in India. He would like to make his mark as a player, but use his USGTF credentials as backup if need be. When not teaching, you will find him practicing at the range or playing. He is no stranger to hard work, and routinely practices more than six hours daily.   All WGTF members are invited to come and play his home course.  The web site is www.Gokarna.com. Should you choose to go to Kathmandu, there is something for the whole family at this resort.