At age 4, Tangtang Worlawalun Thossansin expressed interest in golf after accompanying her father to golf courses in her native Thailand. Her father, Thoss Thossansin, wasted no time in nurturing her interest. Soon Tangtang, as she is known by family and friends, had a coach and began competing. By age 6, she had made a name for herself.
Upon arriving in the United States, Tangtang ascended to the ranks of junior golfers, showcasing skills that belied her age. Her world became defined by the rolling hills and lush fairways of the golf courses she frequented.
Tangtang’s mentor is local golfer, Arnold Billingsley, who is a life member of the PGA and owner of the Golf Institute of America in Ivins. Among the many golfers he has coached, Tangtang holds a special place in his heart.
“Tangtang has a focus I’ve never seen before,” Arnie says. “She may be a young child hula hooping and playing before she gets to the course, but once she picks up her clubs, it’s like a switch goes on. Her accuracy and consistency are unparalleled.”
Summers are busy for Tangtang and her father as they travel across the country for tournaments. Recently, she broke a record at a tournament with a score of 32-under-par. Another notable victory came in Salt Lake City at the Utah Golf Association tournament, where she competed against 12- and 13-year-olds, despite being only 8. In July, Tangtang won the world junior golf tournament in Las Vegas.
Notwithstanding her competitive nature, Tangtang finds joy in practice sessions, especially with the many friends she has made in St. George. She is grateful for the community’s warm welcome she has received in southern Utah—sentiments shared by her parents.
Among Tangtang’s golfing heroes are Tiger Woods and Nelly Korda. Looking to the future, Tangtang hopes to become a professional golfer, too, aspiring to give back to her parents for their unwavering support and love.
"Tangtang has a focus I've never seen before ... Her accuracy and consistency are unparalleled." – Arnold Billingsley