Maria Verchenova, Russian golfer

Maria Verchenova is a Russian professional golfer. She is the first Russian woman, who became a full-time member of Ladies European Tour in 2007. By the way, she has several top-10 finishes.
Beautiful girl was born on March 27, 1986 in Moscow. Verchenova studied at the Moscow Ballet School Inspiration from 1992 to 2002. Her father Vitaly Verchenov was interested in golf. In 1998 in Karlovy Vary Maria was engaged in golf too. Her first coach was Carl Skopovi. Now Maria works with Mark Walters.
Later Maria joined the United Federation of golf development. And as an amateur player she won the championships in Russia, Latvia, Slovenia, Austria and became the winner of the Universiade in Turin in 2006. Then Verchenova graduated from the Russian State University of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism.

Talented girl was recognized the best golfer of Russia in 2004 and 2006. From 2000 to 2006 she was a member of the Russian national team.
To tell the truth, in 2008, Maria became the first Russian golfer, who took part in the Women’s British Open. In addition, she is the only Russian participated in Euro Golf Tour.
According to the portal Sports net, Maria became one of the most beautiful female athletes in the world in 2009.
What is more, the girl became the face of popular in Russia and in the world Italian brand of golf clothing CHERVO in January 2011. Also, she became the face of the sportswear brand Duca del Cosma in 2012.
“I am looking at Maria Sharapova, not because of the way she looks, but because of the way she plays, (…) I think Russian women are strong mentally. They are trying really hard and they are achieving things.”

Personal life
Businessman Valery Balikoev and Maria got married in 2012. Their meeting took place at the Moscow City Golf Club where she was a coach of her future husband.
On September 18, 2012 Verchenova gave birth to her daughter Maria. However, the couple broke up.
Her sister Anna is also engaged in golf. In 2008 Anna became the national junior champion and took the third place in the Open Championship of Russia among adults. You know, she was the second in the open championship of Bulgaria and the fourth in the Open Championship in Latvia. Now Anna works as a trainer at the Moscow City Golf Club.
Her official site: www.mariaverchenova.de