Broadcaster Holly Sonders joined the Golf Channel early in 2011 as part of the network's new morning show, Morning Drive. Based on this blog's search log, I can say with confidence that Holly has been a hit with Golf Channel viewers. We spoke to her recently (via email) and asked her five questions. Those questions, and Holly's answers, are below. For more Holly, watch her weekday mornings on Golf Channel, or follow her on Twitter. For the sake of those who haven't yet had a chance to tune in, describe Morning Drive and your role on it. What differentiates this studio show from the afternoon and evening studio shows on Golf Channel?
HS: I am one of three co-hosts on Morning Drive. Erik Kuselias (from ESPN) and Gary Williams (from Sirius Satellite Radio) are the main hosts, I provide news updates as well as other segments. It is the first morning show ever on Golf Channel and runs from 7-9 a.m. (ET) Monday-Friday. We talk mostly golf but also incorporate other sports as well. It is more lighthearted than the evening shows on GC, we have daily guests in studio/on the phone and allow them to show their personalities (not just strictly about golf). It's a lot of fun.
I know you played competitively in college, so tell us a little bit about your background as a golfer.
HS: I started golfing when I was six years old. I played the AJGA circuit through middle and high school and made the decison to play golf at Michigan State for four years. During my time there, we won a Big Ten Championship and made incredible memories that I would never trade anything for.
You came to Golf Channel from KATV in Little Rock, Ark. Did you ever have to interview a shirtless John Daly?
HS: Haha, no shirtless John Daly. No John Daly at all, actually! I was only in Arkansas for about 8 months. But I hear he is a cool guy, though.
What's the coolest thing that's happened to you since you joined Golf Channel - either on-air or behind the scenes?
HS: On-air? There have been so many celebrities and legendary golf icons come through our studio it would be hard to pick a top moment.
Off the air? Anytime I am invited to host an event, I get really excited. For example, Steve Sands and I were asked to host the "40 under 40" event in Miami a few weeks ago and it was awesome. I was also asked to host a Masters Maxim party in Augusta which was cool, too. I feel lucky every day to have those experiences offered to me.
Holly Sonders, Win McMurray and Kelly Tilghman tee off for a round of golf. Who's winning the most money after 18, and who's paying up?
HS: I love both of them ... Win never played in college and Kelly was highly decorated at Duke. I don't know how much Kelly still plays but I would rather see all three of us compete in a scramble - would be much more fun!
(Photo credit: GolfChannel.com)