Greater Noida: The fastest Indian in the world Narain Karthikeyan hit his first drive on the golf course that was so impressive that it received an appreciation from a couple of professionals watching him. The ace driver, who is sponsored by Hero Motors Ltd, was the star attraction of the inaugural Hero Grand Prix Invitational Masters a golf event held to celebrate India’s first foray into Formula One racing at the Jaypee Greens Golf Resort here on Saturda.

Meanwhile, Pranay Puri, who scored 71 Nett, pipped former India No.1 amateur Keshav Mishra by the narrowest of margin to emerge victorious. Gurpal Singh finished third.

Vivek Narain with a total of 72 nett won in the 0-18 handicap category while Mohit Gujral was the runner-up. Vivek Mathur clinched the honours in the 19 & above category while Yogesh Batra finished second. Mrinalini Singh emerged as the Best Lady Golfer.

However it was Narain Karthikeyan who stole the show when he tried his hand at golf. After an initial putting session, Narain sent the ball soaring in only his first attempt on the tee box when he unleashed his driver to about 200 yards. “I think driving on the fairway is more difficult than driving my race car,” said the genial driver who is the only Indian driver in the upcoming Formula One race. “It is like jogging” said Narain after driving a golf cart, his first experience on a golf course.