could i make it on the pro tour?

Question
I'm curious to know if I should make an attempt at the LPGA tour.  Although I've not been serious and focused on my golf game, I did start playing young.  And I am a former professional tennis player -- had a world ranking, etc.  So I understand pressure and competition at the elite level.  Both my brothers are great golfers - one is a scratch golfer and the other with a low handicap.  I think if I applied my skills and discipline I could do something more serious.  I played for the first time in about 10 years and shot an 83.  Hadn't picked up a club for a long time.  I've never had a real lesson.  I did go to a driving range and I had swing speed and distance measured: spd about 86, although not consistent.  9 iron 110 yds, 7 iron 135 yds 5 iron 150 yds.  I don't have a driver yet.  (embarrassing - I had to borrow one to play a round).  I have a set of men's Tommy Armour silver scots steel shaft-- they're a bit long and a little heavy, but they worked for my round of 83.  Maybe a driver, some practice and a lot of time on the putting practice green??  Maybe?  The only other issue is age - I'm 45, but in great physical shape and fit to play.  Too late?  Too many years in front of me to improve and get experience to be good enough?  Ideas?  Suggestions?  Hobby? Or possible?
Thanks so much,
Kate

(you can find me at www.thetennischannel.com as the host of the TV show ChangeOver).

Answer
Hi Kate:

I admire your enthusiasm and I am behind you 100%.  I'll be frank.  The one thing I cannot question about people is what is inside their chest.  It sounds like you have the desire to give it a go.  You would need great instruction, 3-5 years of competition to see how you'll stack up against the young gals who can really play, you'll need the financial stability to not work outside of the 6-8 hrs. per day you'll need to spend on the golf course working only on your game.  You need new equipment so technology can help you.  Your odds are very low of making a go of it on the LPGA Tour, however, like I said before, I have no idea what is inside your heart.  I have seen many people, male and female, beat the odds, but not many.  You need intense instruction on developing a winning short game, you'll need to work out to get stronger, you'll need more distance, etc.  But if your attitude stays like it is in your question, you have a chance to get good.  Do you have a chance to play Pro Golf, who knows?  But as a former tennis professional who knows what it takes to get to that level, can you make it???  That is a question you'll have to answer Kate.  If you came to me and asked me those questions on the range, showed me your swing and then went out and shot 83 with old sticks and not for 10 years...I would say let's give it a go and see how good you can get.  But you better be 110% committed or your wasting your time.  Worst case scenario, it's a game you can play forever.  And obviously you like it, or you would not have asked that question.  Let me know if I can answer any questions along the way....I will sure help if I can.  Best of luck to you Kate.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member