Carin Koch
Blond. Leggy. Athletic. The envy of Annika Sorenstam in their junior days. Handsome golf-pro husband. Two adoring sons. What doesn't Koch have? She'd like a few more wins, but this consummate pro is enjoying a stellar career, with three Solheim Cup appearances and more than $2.5 million in earnings.
Born: Kungalv, Sweden
Lives: Phoenix Status
Married to Stefan Koch; mother of Oliver, 5, and Simzon, 1
Career highlights: 8-2-2 Solheim Cup record; 1988 Swedish Girls Champion
Driving average: 251.8 yards
Stats: T28 in driving accuracy; T30 in rounds under par
Age: 33
Height: 5'6"
Turned Pro: 1992
Career earnings: $2,586,855
Wins: 2001 LPGA Corning Classic
"Spend money on lessons before you spend on equipment. Or spend on both, but definitely take lessons -- especially short-game lessons.... Guys should use tempo and timing instead of trying to muscle the ball.... 'Your swing looks great!' Now that's a good pickup line."
What do you think the average guy can learn from LPGA players?
That you don't always want to hit as far as you can. Some holes you're better off hitting iron or a three wood. And sometimes you're better off laying up. Also, you can hit a lot farther with good tempo and timing than by trying to muscle every shot.
Why do guys always try to kill it? It's a man thing! It's got to go far!
Do your partners ever try to compete with you in pro ams?
Not often because we're on the same team. But there's a little bit of competition—they'll try to hit it farther. A lot of our pro am partners realize that's not the main thing. And they notice we hit the fairway pretty much every time. They might hit farther, but they lack consistency.
How can a guy look great on the golf course? What are your fashion dos and don'ts?
I don't like big golf shirts. They're ugly. I'm European so I like things more tight fitting. Guys should shop for things that are sporty and well fitted, not three sizes too big. There are so many nice, stretchy materials out there now that are comfortable. And no loud patterns or flowers.
How about the PGA Tour players? Who looks good out there?
There are a few. I'm going to say Fred Couples. I always thought he was cute. He's not beautiful, he's sexy. To me he just looks nice and friendly.
What advice would you have for a guy who's introducing his wife, girlfriend, or daughter to golf? Do women learn differently?
Women can be more sensitive, so you want to make sure you're giving constructive criticism. Golf is tough for anyone in the beginning, but especially with young girls, you have to stay positive and encourage them a lot. You also have to make golf fun, because otherwise your girlfriend or wife or daughter will find something else to do.
What's the worst approach to teaching golf?
Being bossy and impatient. It takes time for people to learn, so have patience and give people a break every now and then.
What's your best tip for the average guy golfer?
Spend money on lessons instead of equipment—or spend on both but definitely take lessons, especially short game lessons. Also work on your tempo a little, slow things down.
