On a media podium, they cast a healthy profile for Canada's next wave of women's pro golfers.
National team members and B.C. products Jisoo Keel and Richmond's Christine Wong had much to bask about as they joined fellow Team Canada members on the day before the CN Canadian Women's Open began in earnest.
They talked about what it means to be behind the ropes at the Vancouver Golf Club for the LPGA event, and how they are eager to measure their best work with the top pros while still being fans of the game's best.
The pair, who were joined by fellow national team members Brooke Henderson, Augusta James and Brittany Marchand, all of Ontario, each earned a spot as amateurs in the tournament and entered Thursday's first round eager to impress.
Wong, 20, said standing next to and playing against the likes of Cristie Kerr, Brittany Lincicome and Morgan Pressel isn't going to change the focus.
"There's always going to be a little pressure," said Wong who opened with a 79 yesterday. "But every week will be different. Just try to play your game and enjoy every moment of it. It's an experience for all of us. We're so happy to be here."
The five agreed that being amongst the world's best players - with 48 of the top50 players on the circuit's official money list in attendance - was a treat.
Keel, who days earlier turned 17, said getting a shot to compete in her hometown was a great opportunity but strange, all the same.
"It's kind of weird, because my friends never actually watch me play golf because I'm all over the country or all over the States playing golf," said the Coquitlam resident. "But they're really excited to come out and [I'm] really excited for them to come watch me. My parents are [also] here, so I'm really excited."
Although they are members together on the national program, Wong admitted that the Ontario-B.C. divide has created an interesting dynamic for her and Keel against the Ontario trio. A friendly rivalry for sure, she said.
"I think there is. But it's always going to be between Ontario and B.C.," said Wong, who is entering her fourth year at San Diego State University. "But I think our camaraderie on the team is unreal. I don't think you'll ever find a closer team than us- It's not always just about golf.
We have fun doing other things, too."
The CN Canadian Women's Open continues today and Saturday, with the closing round slated for Sunday.
Tickets are available online at www. cncanadianwomensopen.com or by calling 1-866-571-5742.
