Kim Welchv. Sophie Sandolo on the final ofBig Break Ka’anapalicould have been billed The Bomberv. The Short Game Artist. The mild-mannered Duramed Futures Playerv. the Saucy and Sophisticated European Tour Professionalcumsemi-clad calendar portfolio.
It was certainly a battle of contrasting styles — the type that can make for an intriguing match and, in the golf sphere, compelling reality television. The golf, however, fell short of the hype when Sophie’s short game deserted her and Kim prevailed, 4 and 3, in the taped match-play final.
Their play was tentative. The golfers’ nerves seemingly getting the best of them as the big prize — an exemption into an LPGA event later this year — loomed. And that’s why the quality of play ironically didn’t matter in this made-for-TV reality production. Throughout the season it was the interpersonal tension that kept this viewer captivated. The girls exuded confidence, the clothes were sexy and the drama as compelling as other top-tier reality shows.
The make up of the contestants in this season’sBig Breakcentered on the visually alluring. The women wore contemporary outfits on the course and their personalities and youthful spirits injected energy into what could have been run-of-the-mill contests. And contrary to the final, the golf during most of the season was first rate.
Kim Welch was known forwearing a silk scarf head wrapduring competitions, a trend she continued in the finale. Sophie, known for her barely there calendars, donned a scarf but it was demurely placed around her neck. On the style front, Kim won the scarf contest, a look that she will no doubt carry with her along into the 2008 Navistar LPGA Classic. She also won a full season exemption to the 2009 Duramed Futures Tour with all entry fees waived, an endorsement contract with Adams Golf that includes $10K in cash, and a BMW Z4 Coupe. Not bad for a good walk spoiled. — Rico Williams
