In the beginning ...
What was your first job?My very first job was working at the Chula Vista Municipal Golf Course in the pro shop. I usually worked the closing shift from noon to 7 p.m. on weekends.
What was your worst experience on the job?
It was a nightmare every time the computer would fail me! I manned the shop alone and there would be a long line of impatient golfers standing in front of me along with the phone ringing. I figured it out though. That cash register never liked new receipt cartridges.
What are some of your most memorable experiences while at UCLA?
Attending UCLA was truly an incredible experience for me. I was there for four-and-a-half years. Besides my love for the campus, I met so many amazing people and am fortunate to be close friends with them today; both teammates and non-athletes. I did complete my four year NCAA eligibility playing on the UCLA Women’s Golf Team.
There was a period where I seriously considered turning professional while on the team. However, looking back, staying in college and continuing on the team was the right decision for me. My most memorable experience while on the team was being a part of its growth that led us to a NCAA National Championship in 2004!
Being on the Duramed Futures Tour required you to play in 19 tournaments in 14 States. What travel lessons did you learn?
Traveling by car definitely has its advantages. I find it so convenient to have everything I need with me, no matter where I am going or what the weather conditions are like. I also scout out the nearest Trader Joe’s (which is not always in close proximity to an event) and I stock up on all my favorite goodies.
At work
If you were not a professional golfer, what would you have been?There are so many options! Go back to school for my Masters. Become a college golf coach or weight coach. Maybe even a high school P.E. teacher where I would definitely coach the school tennis and golf teams. Explore the movie making industry. My list is really endless.
What’s the best thing about being a professional LPGA golfer?
Competing with the very best in the world.
What’s the toughest thing about being a professional LPGA golfer?
With 35 events across the world in 11 months, the traveling can wear on you. It is really important to find the time to relax, and ways to revitalize your energy and spirit.
Health
What is your favorite work out machine?The Treadmill! I love medicine and Swiss balls, too. The gym is my third home!
About your work out activities, are there any key people you turn to for guidance?
I work with my golf coach, Shawn Cox. Do my usual off-week gym routines. Head to Los Angeles to visit and work with my trainer, Karl Jordan. Catch a couple of Bikram Yoga classes. I’m obsessed!
When it comes to your health and fitness, what advice would you want to share with others?
First, be there for the people you care about. Everyone needs a support center. My grandmother recently suffered a stroke and the time I spent with her in the acute rehabilitation center with family members just emphasized how life can change in a single moment. Eat good food. Make time to play and enjoy what you do.
Fun
If you are not playing in LPGA Tournaments, what do you do on your on weekends?I enjoy catching up with family and friends, hanging out and simply relaxing.
If a movie was made of your life, which actress would you want to have play you?
Cameron Diaz, hands down!
If you were stranded on a deserted island, which three items would you want to have with you?
My golf clubs. My favorite pillow. It was a birthday present from my friend, Samantha Wilkerson. She even made the cool pillow case. Lastly, I know this is a deserted island question, but if it would be at all possible, could I have a working Trader Joe’s on the island?
What is your favorite type of food?
Mexican!!! I love chips, salsa and guacamole!
What is your favorite restaurant?
Tough question ... hmmmm ... depends on what type of food I’m craving.
What are your favorite movies?
I love Movies! My list would have no ending. It would go on forever. I enjoy basically all genres; action, romantic-comedies, mysteries ... although I am not a big fan of scary movies. I love the classics as well. Rear Window, The Thin Man series, and The Philadelphia Story with Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart and Kathryn Hepburn. One of my favorite directors is Alfred Hitchcock.
What CD do you have in your car right now?
Modest Mouse’s new CD, “We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank.” I love this CD! It won’t be leaving my car anytime soon.
Favorite children’s book?
The Berenstain Bears
What book are you currently reading?
Tommy's Honor: The Story of Old Tom Morris and Young Tom Morris, Golf's Founding Father and Son, by Kevin Cook.
What is your favorite Starbucks drink?
Oh that’s tough! ... I am a big Starbucks fan and a lot depends on the weather or my mood. My usual selections range from an iced coffee, a 2-pump mocha with half soy/nonfat milk, maybe a cold or hot soy latte, or a shaken ice tea lemonade (unsweetened with green tea).
Basics
• Astrological Sign: Virgo
• Education: Hilltop High School, Chula Vista, California; University of California, Los Angeles, History Major
• Home: Las Vegas, Nevada
Return to Charlotte Mayorkas LPGA Tour Diary index
