Miri's Mirabel Ting Turns Pro at 19, Debuts in France's LPGA Championship!

Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia - Excitement is in the air as a new star emerges in the world of professional golf. Mirabel Ting Ern Hui, a 19-year-old golfer hailing from Miri, Sarawak, officially turned professional on July 4, stepping into a realm that many dream of but few achieve. With a successful stint at Florida State University (FSU) behind her, she is set to make her debut on the LPGA Tour at the Amuni Evian Championship in France from July 10-13. In a social media post, she often shared her gratitude for her time at FSU, particularly thanking her coaches and teammates for their unwavering support.

Mirabel’s journey has been remarkable, culminating in her recognition as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Annika Award, which celebrates the top collegiate golfer in the United States. This significant accolade not only highlights her outstanding talent but also assures her place in the upcoming championship. “I worked hard to get to this point,” she reflected, a sentiment that resonates with many aspiring amateur golfers.

Honoring Influence and Legacy

A key part of Mirabel’s path has been shaped by her mentors. She specifically acknowledged Kris Assawapimonporn, who played a pivotal role in refining her skills over the last seven months. Mirabel also took a moment to honor her late father, Ting Hee Chai, expressing how deeply she misses him and how she hopes to honor his memory through her achievements. Her heartwarming tribute shows the strong ties of family and love that drive her ambitions.

Mirabel’s accomplishments on the greens have been extraordinary. As a player at FSU, she won five times in just nine stroke-play events, boasting a remarkable performance where her lowest finish was T-6. This exceptional season not only showcases her natural talent but also highlights her determination and hard work. Florida State coach Amy Bond praised her skills, particularly noting her exceptional ball-striking and improved putting, thanks to diligent practice with Assawapimonporn in Thailand.

A Look at the Annika Award

The Annika Award, which Mirabel secured, is a coveted prize in collegiate golf, awarded annually since 2014 to the best female golfer. Notably, she stands out as the first recipient from both Florida State University and Malaysia. The award, named after the legendary Annika Sörenstam, is decided by a vote from college golfers, coaches, and golf media, further emphasizing its prestige within the sport. Past winners have included formidable players like Rose Zhang and Maria Fassi, making Mirabel’s victory a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.

Mirabel’s bold ambitions reflect the influence of stars like Sörenstam, who paved the way for female golfers worldwide. Annika’s illustrious career, marked by numerous awards and groundbreaking achievements, serves as an inspiration for many young athletes. Since turning professional in 1992, she made headlines with numerous records, including being the first woman in history to cross $2 million in single-season earnings. Her legacy continues to motivate aspiring golfers like Mirabel, who hopes to make her mark on the LPGA Tour.

As Mirabel Ting prepares for her debut in France, the excitement is palpable—not just in Sarawak or at Florida State, but across the global golfing community. We can’t wait to see how she performs on the international stage, all while honoring the support of her family and mentors. There’s no doubt that this passionate golfer is ready to embrace a future filled with potential on the fairways.