If you had one word to describe yourself, what would it be? Grateful.

The LPGA Tour returns to La Costa Resort and Spa this week for the third-annual Kia Classic. Defending champion Sandra Gal will test her game on a new golf course after defeating Jiyai Shin by one stroke last season at Pacific Palms outside of Los Angeles. Gal, who fired rounds of 67-68-70-71, captured the victory with one of the season’s most dramatic shots, a clutch wedge from 83 yards to three feet for a birdie and the victory. She went on to earn five additional top-10 finishes in 2011.

LPGA.com caught up with Sandra Gal for a quick Q&A. Gal talks about defending her title this week.

The LPGA Tour returns to La Costa Resort and Spa this week for the third-annual Kia Classic.

La Costa Resort and Spa provided a picturesque backdrop for Kia Classic media day in Carlsbad, Calif. on Friday.