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RICKIE FOWLER: MY BEST TIPS FROM TEE TO GREEN

2017 DECEMBER 2016 ISSUE #554

DRIVERS • FAIRWAYS • IRONS • WEDGES • PUTT

Jordan Spieth

Henrik Stenson

Adam Scott

IT ALL ADDS Charl Schwartzel

Rickie Fowler

Ariya Jutanugarn

2016 WORLDWIDE BALL COUNT Brittany Lang

20,673 Nearest Competitor

3,802

Rafa Cabrera-Bello

Zach Johnson

©2016 Acushnet Company. Source: Darrell Survey, Sports Marketing Surveys Inc. Northmountain International. Based upon results through 18/10/16 on the U.S. PGA, U.S. LPGA, PGA Tour Champions, Web.com, South African, Asiann

Bubba Watson

Jimmy Walker

UP TO TRUST. Bernhard Langer

Louis Oosthuizen

Brooke Henderson

2016 WORLDWIDE WIN COUNT

159 Nearest Competitor

n, Korean, OneAsia, Australasian, Japan, Canadian PGA and PGA European Tours.

29

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Contents

12/16

44 “Though the course is located in an area closely tied with the history of Melbourne, Club Mandalay represents the future of Victoria's rapidly growing capital.”

THE GOLF LIFE

OPINION

14 Your Say 18 Landscapes

12 Editor’s Letter 26 Jaime Diaz

Old Head Golf Links, Ireland

20 Aussies Making Headlines Minjee Lee wins again

24 Golden Retirements A look at US PGA Tour pensions

34 Hazardous Game 10 ways to die on the course COVER IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES – STANLEY CHOU / STRINGER

37 What Really

Who belongs in the Hall of Fame?

28 Andrew Daddo Having a pro golfer as a child

30 Annabel Rolley What Donald Trump, the golfer, is really like

32 Undercover Pro A US Open champion ranks golf’s Majors

194 Ian Baker-Finch Looking back on a huge year for Aussie golf

Happened The rebirth of Beverley Park

38 Rules of Golf Don’t let course maintenance trip you up

8

EQUIPMENT 73 What’s In My Bag New Zealand Prime Minister John Key

40 NZ Digest

133 Annual Equipment Guide

It's a new era for the game of golf across the Tasman

All the latest gear hitting Aussie shelves this summer

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

58

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46 – 52 – 56 – 60 –

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08 F Grind 08 F Grind 10 S Grind 04 L Grind

52 – 12 F Grind 56 – 14 F Grind 60 – 12 K Grind

JASON DUFNER

48 – 08 F Grind 54 – 08 M Grind 60 – 04 L Grind

JIMMY WALKER

Contents 12/16

OFFICIAL PROGRAMME

89 FEATURES 44 Course Review: Club Mandalay, VIC Melbourne’s northern suburbs have been foreign land for golf courses.

But not anymore. By Evin Priest

48 Jack Newton: Hall of Famer An Aussie legend gets his due after years of service – on and off the fairways. By Geoff Armstrong

52 Catch Us If You Can The young Aussie stars just keep coming – and winning. It now begs the question: is Golf Australia’s High Performance Program the best in the world? By Rohan Clarke

58 Think Young, Play Hard With a phenomenal amateur golf record, and a quirky ponytail and beard to match, Aussie golf fans can get used to seeing Curtis Luck on their screens. By Evin Priest

62 Travel: New South Wales Central Coast

177

Rickie Fowler "I know I’ve gone too hard if I’m straining – even slightly – to keep my balance as I watch the shot."

From Shelly Beach to Kooindah Waters, here are five reasons to play one of Australia’s best-kept-secret golf destinations. By Evin Priest

68 The Kiwis’ Key To Success New Zealand Prime Minister John Key on the rapid rise of NZ golf, slicing his 10-handicap, and how he became best mates with outgoing US President Barack Obama on the fairways. By Brad Clifton

76 The Futurists of Australian Golf Meet the innovators and influencers changing the game Down Under, whether you like it or not. By Brad Clifton

82 My Shot: Andrew ‘Beef’ Johnston Golf’s newest cult hero opens up about his love for beers, burgers, beards – and the six stages of drinking. With Guy Yocom

PLAY YOUR BEST 42 Swing Sequence

173 Jack Nicklaus

US PGA Tour star Kevin Chappell

Dealing with a bowl-shaped green

162 Patrick Reed: Slay It!

174 Lauren Sanft

How to dominate with your driver

Flexibility vs Strength: which is more important?

166 Jimmy Walker:

10

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

Spinning 60 Degrees

175 Jason Laws

Why I used my lob wedge to win my first Major

The five most common mistakes I saw in 2016

168 Hank Haney:

177 Rickie Fowler:

Shoot Lower Scores

Hittin’ It Great

Golf's five biggest misses – and how to fix them

My keys to get you from tee to green

172 David Leadbetter

180 Mark Officer

Get your chips closer

Getting a proper putting setup

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brad clifton

Editor’s Letter

Editor-in-Chief @bradcliffo

australiangolfdigest.com.au

New Zealand’s success starts at the very top OME of my all-time favourite interviews have taken place in the most unforeseen settings.

A few years ago, I was scheduled to sit down with Jack Nicklaus at The Australian Golf Club during a flying visit. But time quickly got away and Jack had to get back to his hotel to check out for his flight home.

He invited me to join him for the drive back, and after an hour-long crawl in Sydney’s peak-hour traffic, we had covered just about every topic in the game from the backseat of his car.

Then there was the time I spoke with Rory McIlroy at the premiere of Anchorman 2 in Sydney. McIlroy was in town for the Australian Open and I was asked to make a few calls on behalf of the movie promoters in a bid to get him to the screening. He had apparently sat next to the movie's lead actor Will Ferrell on the same flight to Sydney but Ferrell forgot to extend an invitation himself. A few hours later I found McIlroy standing at a marquee bar outside the cinema, red-eyed and jetlagged but excited all the same.

Yet a few weeks ago I conducted an interview that may have trumped the lot in terms of ‘randomness’. I was in New Zealand’s No.1 golf retail outlet, The Golf Warehouse. It’s hardly an unusual scene for a golf interview. But this was different. The interview subject was the most powerful Kiwi in the land, who had literally flown into the country fresh off chairing a United Nations security meeting.

What chance a golf magazine had of interviewing a person of such political influence would normally be confined to the spaces of Parliament House, if at all?

Not with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key. “Let’s do it down at my local golf shop.”

What unfolded over the next hour or so was an authentic insight into why New Zealand golf has never been stronger.

They say success starts from the top and for New Zealand golf it starts at the very pinnacle. Key is the most passionate golfer of all the world leaders – Obama included.

I had been warned he was a golf nut, but nothing could prepare me for his arrival.

After being told by one of the two security guards onsite that he was “a few blocks away,” I gave a thumbs-up and continued picking up the latest drivers to kill time.

Suddenly there was movement. Earpieces were buzzing as a jet-black car pulled up outside and more security emerged. An

S

12

immaculately dressed gentleman then hopped out and made his way through the sliding doors. “G’day, guys. John Key,” he says cheerfully before swapping pleasantries with shop staff as any regular would do.

“OK, where would you like to do this interview before I get dressed and hit a few balls?” he asks, limbering up.

We sat down and chatted for half an hour [see page 68] as Key’s security team – including his golf-obsessed chief of staff – relaxed and perused the store.

Key took great pride in talking about the rise of New Zealand golf, how a united governing body was doing wonders for the game at grassroots (hint hint, Australia!) and why keeping golf courses both accessible and affordable was a major reason for his country’s tourism boom.

It was then time for Key to get to work … on his golf game. With coach Rhys Bishop barking instructions, Key flushed shot after shot on a simulator, looking every bit of his impressive 10-handicap.

And then the moment that summed up the man. With another flight to catch and time ticking away, his chief of staff moved in.

“John, we’ve got to go,” he says with urgency in his voice.

Key stopped, mid-swing, turned around and reached for his mobile phone to check the time. “No we don’t,” he fired back. “I’ve still got one more minute.”

He grinned and went back to hitting balls.

With a guy like this in charge, it’s little wonder New Zealand golf is producing Lydia Kos and building even more world-class courses (there are currently four under construction in Queenstown alone).

And to think in the space of 18 months, NZ Golf has attracted more than 80,000 new social golfers to its fairways.

If only Malcolm Turnbull played the game ... he'd be the guy hitting it left and right.

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

EDITORIAL editor-in-chief

Brad Cliton brad@cmma.com.au +61 2 8197 3704 deputy editor Evin Priest evin@cmma.com.au +61 2 8197 3703 senior writer Rohan Clarke writer-at-large Tony Webeck architecture editor Darius Oliver contributing Greg Norman Brett Ogle columnists Grant Dodd Geoff Armstrong Andrew Daddo Annabel Rolley art director David West contributing professionals

Jordan Spieth Tom Watson David Leadbetter Butch Harmon Sean Foley

online manager online producer

Erin Rollestone Jodie Raitt

Rickie Fowler Phil Mickelson Bubba Watson Jack Nicklaus Jason Laws

EXECUTIVE TEAM managing director Nick Cutler nick@cmma.com.au +61 2 8197 3710 creative director Rob Loughridge finance manager Trish Motion ADVERTISING advertising manager Stephen Louis victoria, tasmania stephen@cmma.com.au south australia +61 420 532 160 advertising manager David Giannuzzi nsw/wa davidg@cmma.com.au +61 2 8197 3712 advertising manager Gary Ward queensland gary@cmma.com.au 0422 439 368 account Kate McNamara manager kate@cmma.com.au +61 2 8197 3706 classifieds Mark Turjman advertising mark@cmma.com.au +61 2 8188 3578 printed by Bluestar WEB distributed by Gordon & Gotch Australia Pty Ltd Gordon & Gotch NZ print post approved 100021408 issn 1324-7476 SUBSCRIPTIONS website www.magshop.com.au/golf phone 136 116 email magshop@magshop.com.au postage Free to reply, Reply Paid 5252 Sydney NSW 2001

Australian Golf Digest is published by CMMA Digital & Print Pty Ltd (ABN 481 622 024 59) 40 – 44 Red Lion Street Rozelle NSW 2039. Copyright 2016 – CMMA Digital & Print Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. Australian Golf Digest contains material reprinted with permission from Golf Digest (USA Edition) Copyright© 2012 The Golf Digest Companies. All rights reserved. Golf Digest is a registered trademark of The Golf Digest Companies, which is a subsidiary of Advance Publications, Inc. CMMA Digital & Print Pty Ltd is the exclusive English language licensee of The Golf Digest Companies in Australia and New Zealand. CMMA Digital & Print Pty Ltd collects your personal information to assist us in providing the goods or services you have requested, to process your competition entries, and to improve our products and services. We or any of our Australian related companies may be in touch by any means (including e-mail or SMS) at any time to let you know about goods, services, or promotions which may be of interest to you. We may also share your information with other persons or entities who assist us in providing our services, running competitions or with other companies who provide prizes for competitions or reader offers. We would like to share your information with these overseas-related companies so that they can contact you with special offers. If you would prefer us not to, please contact our privacy officer at australiangolfdigest@cmma.com.au or send to Privacy Officer 40-44 Red Lion Street Rozelle NSW 2039. You can gain access to your personal information by contacting our privacy officer.

LESS ENERGY WITH EVERY STEP, MORE ENERGY FOR EVERY SHOT.

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• LETTER OF THE MONTH

This issue's caption winner will receive a KING Wedge and player towel, courttesy of Cobra-PUMA Golf.

Congratulations Adrian Kent for this funny take on Rickie Fowler shrugging at the fact he's standing solo while his USA Ryder Cup teammates celebrate victory by kissing their spouses. Adrian, your new Cobra King Wedge and towel are on their way!

“Well, at least l t thi this is i still till better than having to kiss Patrick Reed!”

14

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

My Golf Passion MY NAME is Sharon Martin. I was born with spina bifida and live in a small town in the Central West of New South Wales – a place where on the golf course trees dominate and you’re just as likely to hit a birdie of the feathered variety as you are the golfing kind. It’s a place where we don't get a lot of rain, so even if the greens here were made with turf, chances are they still wouldn't be green for long. But this place where the sand is on the 'green' and not in a bunker, is where my passion for golf was born.

I once heard someone repeat the old adage from Mark Twain, "Golf is a good walk spoiled." For a long time I agreed and thought, Why would anyone waste their Saturdays chasing a small white ball around a pretty paddock?

But that thought changed forever after a charity golf day for a friend of mine. I reluctantly agreed to give it a go to help her raise funds so she could compete overseas. We played in four-person teams and played best ball. Needless to say none of my shots were the best ball but with all the walking, the twisting and turning of the swing, using someone else's clubs and bending down to pick up my ball – my back was killing me! For a week I was horizontal and in pain but I had enough fun that day to spark a vague interest in the game.

After the pain wore off, I decided that golf was a game I would like to get the hang of one day. So I set about buying a starter set of clubs. Another friend purchased a golf cart and offered to take me round the course for a hit and teach me more about the game she loves. Now I am short-sighted, so after the ball has flown more than 10 metres away I don't usually have much clue where the darn thing finishes. Instead, I rely on her eyesight to tell me if I hit a good shot or if I should just drag out a new ball.

Then one day, I was asked to be a part of four-person team for her father's memorial golf day. By then I had hit a few balls straight in practice and had again agreed to give it a go. Again, not many of my shots were used as best ball but enough of them were taking flight and heading straight for my passion of golf to be ignited.

The use of a cart to get around the course and the invention of a suction cup at the end of my teammate’s putter eliminated the need to bend down and lessened the agony of a bad back.

Some good shots, some laughs with friends and hardly any back pain, saw me officially hooked on golf. I even know what that two-pronged, funny looking, salad fork thingy (divot tool) is used for.

These days I’m at the golf course every chance I get. And as I ride in my friend’s golf cart to the next shot, watching others walk the course, I can’t help but think, that Mark Twain fella had it all wrong. A walk is a good way to ruin a good game of golf!

Sharon Martin, Central West, NSW

THIS MONTH’S WINNER Congratulationss to Sharon, who wins a Cobra F6 Hybrid d, courtesy of Cobra-PUMA Golf.

GETTY IMAGES

How would you caption this photo of Gary Player and Yao Ming [right] during the World Celebrity Pro-Am 2016 Mission Hills China Golf Tournament ? E-mail your entry to australiangolfdigest@cmma.com.au and we’ll publish the best answer in our next issue. Get thinking!

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The Golf Life | Landscapes

Don’t Miss the Boat Fancy cruising to the 2017 British Open? Pack your clubs and climb aboard MAGINE playing at Old Head Golf Links [pictured], laid out on an Atlantic promontory unrivalled in drama and beauty. Or taking on the majestic links at Royal Portrush (host of the 2019 British Open). Then treading in the footsteps of the legends of golf as you attend the final two days of the 2017 British Open at Royal Birkdale. You can discover all this and more – and only unpack once – on Travelrite International’s 2017 British Isles and Open Golf Cruise. Join PGA professional Robert Stock aboard the Celebrity Silhouette and play six of the world’s most spectacular golf courses,

I

18 australiangolfdigest.com.au

| december 2016

which normally take hours to reach by road but are easily accessible by sea.

After each day on the links, return to your floating resort for some 19th hole refreshments, a gourmet dinner and a night of entertainment before your golfing adventure resumes the very next day.

Departing July 15 next year, this trip includes a 12-night cruise, two nights in Amsterdam and confirmed tee times at six outstanding golf courses including Old Head, Portmarnock and The K Club in Ireland, Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, Noordwijk in the Netherlands and Damme Golf in Belgium.

Your tour also includes visits to Amsterdam, Bruges, St Peter’s Port, Dublin, Belfast and Liverpool, along with your treasured two-day pass to the British Open.

And if that’s still not enough to get your blood pumping, there’s an optional six-night extension tour to Scotland.

With only four spots left you better not miss the boat.

For more information about Travelrite International’s British Isles and Open Golf Cruise, which runs from July 15-31 2017, call Travelrite International on 1800 033 436 or email heathmont@travelrite.com.au.

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 19

The Golf Life Aussies Making Headlines by Rohan Clarke

Newsmaker

Minjee Lee OMPLETED a wire-to-wire victory at the Blue Bay LPGA on China’s Hainan Island for her second LPGA title of the year.

The 20-year-old from Perth birdied the last hole to beat America’s Jessica Korda by a stroke.

Opening rounds of 65-67 forged a six-stroke halfway lead. But as Lee [right] cooled o over the weekend, challenges came from Korda and the world’s most in-form golfer, Ariya Jutanugarn.

By the 72nd hole, Lee was tied with the long-hitting Thai who doesn’t carry a driver. But the world No.2 blew her chance when she pulled a 3-wood into the water from the tee, incurring a bogey 6 on the reachable par 5.

Minjee’s mother Clara and grandmother were at Blue Bay to witness her third LPGA Tour victory, which lifted Lee to No.15 in the Rolex Rankings.

C

HEAD GREG NORMAN: Rebranded his business empire to reflect a more diversified portfolio of interests. Previously known as Great White Shark Enterprises, the Greg Norman Company will feature an evolution of the iconic shark logo, signifying growth and transformation of the 30-year-old organisation.

CURTIS LUCK: Became the second Australian to capture the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship. The newly crowned US Amateur champ outlasted compatriot Brett Coletta by a stroke at Jack Nicklaus Golf Club Korea.

BRETT COLETTA: Rebounded from disappointment at the Asia-Pacific Amateur to win the Isuzu Queensland Open by three strokes at The Brisbane Golf Club. The 20-year-old Victorian became the first amateur to win the Queensland Open since Stuart Appleby won the title at the same age and same venue in 1991.

ANDREW EVANS, MATTHEW GILES AND ANTHONY HOUSTON: Tied for third at the $1.5 million Fiji International, finishing a distant 10 strokes adrift of American Ryder Cup star Brandt Snedeker at Natadola Bay. 20

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

AARON BADDELEY: Signed a multi-year equipment deal with PING that will see him put a minimum of 11 PING clubs in his bag.

LOUIS DOBBELAAR: (left) Created history as the youngest winner of the men’s New Zealand Amateur Championship. The 15-year-old from Brisbane defeated Peter Spearman-Burn 2&1 on the 35th hole of the ďŹ nal at Royal Wellington.

KYM OLSEN: The 55-year-old Victorian charged home to register an impressive four-stroke triumph in the Australian Men’s Senior Amateur Championship at Adelaide’s Kooyonga Golf Club.

JACQUI MORGAN: The Sydneysider won her second Australian Women’s Senior Amateur title, beating Helen Pascoe 6&4 at Ballarat Golf Club.

ADAM BURDETT AND CORREY PRICE: Thwarted by heavy rain in the National Futures Championship at Ballarat Golf Club, ďŹ nishing second behind English trainee Matthew Webb when the ďŹ nal round was abandoned.

JACK NEWTON: Inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame. The 66-year-old was recognised for his contribution to Australian golf, particularly work with juniors.

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The Golf Life Pensions by Ron Sirak

“It’s the gold standard when it comes to sports pension plans. It’s really a remarkable plan.”

Golden Retirements

Beyond their tournament winnings, US PGA Tour pros have a gift that keeps giving: a huge pension ROUND the turn of the century, before two economic downturns – the combination of the dotcom bust and September 11 in 2001, followed by the GFC in 2007-’09 – there were staggering estimates of what some US PGA Tour players would have in their deferred-income plan when they retired. Tiger Woods would have $US 1 billion, it was guesstimated, and journeymen competitors would amass tens of millions of dollars.

Not only did those projections not foresee economic collapse, they also assumed an unrealistic rate of growth for US PGA Tour revenue based on the staggering 40 per cent purse increase in 1999 fuelled by the first TV contract in the Woods era, which was negotiated less than a month after Tiger’s final-round Masters victory in 1997 attracted a record 14.1 Sunday TV rating.

But since the second Tiger TV deal, in 2003, revenue growth for the US PGA Tour has held modestly but steadily in mid-single digits annually during a time when many workers’ pensions have been frozen or eliminated. Tour pros can thank in part the creation of the FedEx Cup bonus annuity in 2007; the PGA Tour Champions, established in 1980; and the cuts-made pension that commissioner Deane Beman conceived in 1983.

Woods has more than $20 million in retirement money [see accompanying chart] to kick back on, according to AUSTRALIAN GOLF DIGEST calculations after interviews with agents, former players and investment experts. Meanwhile, players like Phil Mickelson, Steve Stricker, Jim Furyk and Vijay Singh all have more than $7.5 million (and growing) in pension money, giving a whole new meaning to the golden years, the insiders tell us.

LPGA Tour pros, however, lag well behind – even 30-year players with multiple wins have balances only in the low six figures in tour-provided retirement cash.

Like everything on the US PGA Tour, the pension plan is merit-based. “You eat what you kill; you are not guaranteed anything,” one former player who is vested in the plan 24

claimed, who was speaking on the condition of anonymity. “Deane set it up right. I think every player going forward should have a debt of gratitude for it.”

Based on the value of the two main US PGA Tour retirement plans, assuming an annual growth rate of a very conservative 5 per cent, if Woods were to never hit another shot, his $18 million in deferred FedEx Cup bonus money would grow to $23 million by 2020, when he turns 45 and can begin collecting it.

If he never hits another shot, his $2.2 million in cuts-made bonus money would grow to $3.6 million at 50, giving him a total deferred package of almost $27 million. He has the option of leaving the cuts-made money alone, gathering interest, until he is 60.

Under the latest FedEx Cup annuity system and the cuts-made bonus system, a player who joins the tour today at 25 and plays 15 years making the minimum number of cuts required to be vested in the plan – 15 a year – and finishing 40th in the FedEx Cup each of those 15 years would accumulate

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

about $3.3 million in FedEx money and nearly $1.5 million in cuts-made money for a total retirement package of almost $5 million by 40. And that’s just a conservative estimate, in addition to millions a year in prizemoney and endorsement deals.

“The two best things about having been on the tour are the pension package and the fact I can play TPC courses for free,” says another former player, who shared details of his retirement plan on the condition of anonymity. He played more than 15 years in the pre-FedEx Cup bonus era and made more than 250 cuts, amassing about $1 million in deferred income, which pays him $6,000 a month. “That monthly income gives me the freedom to do what I do, which is work on several grow-the-game programs,” he says.

On the other hand, Beth Daniel, who played 29 years on the LPGA Tour, has less than $300,000 in her tour pension plan.

Another LPGA player, sharing her financial details confidentially, played more than 15 years on tour and was a multiple winner – a

GETTY IMAGES: MCT / CONTRIBUTOR

A

“Could someone have $40 million in the plan? Mathematically, yes.� career similar to the US PGA Tour player who has a $1 million nest egg – but has $102,415 in her LPGA retirement fund. “We were really the first sports organisation to set up a retirement fund for players,� Daniel says. “It was in 1980, my second year on tour. I would have to think I’m on the high end because of how long I played and how much I did for the tour, like being on the board, various other committees and being Solheim Cup captain and assistant captain.�

The LPGA plan is funded by excess revenue at the end of the year. Sometimes a few hundred thousand dollars go into the pot, and other years there's no contribution.

CUTS-MADE AND BONUS PLANS Under the US PGA Tour’s cuts-made plan, a player must make 75 cuts to be 50 per cent vested and is fully vested at 150 cuts, according to multiple players. According to the US PGA Tour, in 2014/’15, players received $4,500 for each of the first 15 cuts made – $67,500 – and $9,000 for each cut made above 15, in addition to prizemoney.

The plan is funded by a variety of revenue streams, including advertising revenue, investments, corporate partners, TPC profits, digital revenue and TV money.

For the purpose of calculations in this story, it was assumed players received $4,000 for each of the first 15 cuts and $8,000 for each cut above 15. That seems to be a fair average for a number that has fluctuated. (The US PGA Tour said it could not comment on any individual player’s deferred income plan because of privacy issues and would not say which figures are too high or too low.)

The FedEx Cup bonus pool is $35 million annually. The top-10 finishers get anywhere from 90 per cent to 40 per cent of their money upfront and the rest deferred, the tour says. Those outside the top 10 have all their money deferred. When Woods won the first FedEx Cup, in 2007, all of his $10 million was deferred. That rule changed the next year, so when he won again in 2009, he got $9 million upfront and $1 million deferred. “It’s the gold standard when it comes to sports pension plans,� says one agent, speaking on the condition of anonymity. “It’s really a remarkable plan.�

An investment planner working for the agent says a conservative estimate on the rate of return for the deferred income is 5 per cent, the figure used in the calculations in this story.

By any standard, the tour’s deferred-

income plan is the best in sports. The maximum annual payout allowed by federal law from a retirement plan is $210,000.

The best plan in team sports is the one negotiated by the Major League Baseball Players Association. On average, it pays a player with 10 years of service in the game $180,000 annually, according to MLBPA documents. If a player were to collect $200,000 a year from the pension plan, it would take more than 40 years to collect the $8.3 million estimated to be in Mickelson’s deferred-income plan. “Could someone have $40 million in the plan?� asked one financial analyst with intimate knowledge of the US PGA Tour plan. “Mathematically, yes, if that person picked their stocks aggressively and rode the stock market rise from its lows in the spring of 2009 to its record highs in mid-August of this year. Tiger and Vijay could have that kind of money. I think a lot of guys have $10 millionplus, probably 20 guys have over that.�

Former US PGA Tour players must begin accessing their deferred cuts-made money by 60 but can begin drawing on it as early as 50 if they are no longer an active player on the US PGA Tour or PGA Tour Champions.

Players must collect FedEx Cup deferred money over a five-year period beginning at

45 if they are no longer active. The PGA Tour Champions, the circuit for players 50 and older, is essentially a retirement annuity because those who play in all the nonmajors are guaranteed to make the cut. In 2015, Bernhard Langer led the tour in money won with $2.3 million.

In addition to the regular prize money, the PGA Tour Champions has had the Charles Schwab Cup since 2001, a seasonending points race in which the winner gets a $1 million annuity. A half-million goes to the runner-up, $300,000 to third, $200,000 to fourth and $100,000 for fifth.

Going into 2016, Langer, who is not vested in the cuts-made plan because of the time he spent on the European Tour, had won a combined $30 million on the US PGA and Champions tours. He also won the Schwab Cup three times, earning $4.5 million in that annuity fund. “Everyone talks about these guys are making too much money,� says a former player who will begin collecting deferred income next year. “We make a lot of money, but golfers probably play to the least percentage of revenue of any sport.�

But golfers have careers lasting far longer – all backed up quite nicely by that deferred income that continues to grow.

Ͳ Ç“ ÇœČ‘ Ç?

player

pga tour earnings

fedex deferred

cuts deferred

total deferred

1. tiger woods

$110,061,012

$18,000,000

$2,200,000

$20,200,000

2. steve stricker

$42,279,469

$6,500,000

$2,200,000

$8,700,000

3. phil mickelson

$81,098,470

$5,100,000

$3,200,000

$8,300,000

4. jim furyk

$67,133,967

$3,300,000

$4,400,000

$7,700,000

5. vijay singh

$70,519,285

$3,100,000

$4,400,000

$7,500,000

6. brandt snedeker

$30,356,557

$3,000,000

$1,000,000

$4,000,000

7. bill haas

$25,807,339

$2,700,000

$1,200,000

$3,900,000

8. sergio garcia

$43,598,914

$2,200,000

$1,000,000

$3,200,000

9. luke donald

$34,225,158

$1,800,000

$1,300,000

$3,100,000

10. matt kuchar

$37,157,445

$1,600,000

$1,200,000

$2,800,000

We estimated the value of the plans as of January 1, 2016, assuming a 5 per cent annual rate of growth.

(The US PGA Tour would not comment on which figures are too high or too low.) Cuts deferred based on an average of $4,000 per 15 made cuts and $8,000 for each cut made above 15 (the actual figure for 2014/’15 was $4,500 and $9,000). FedEx bonus calculations assume all money in 2007 was deferred; since 2008, 10 per cent was deferred for positions 1-5, 20 per cent deferred for sixth, 30 per cent for seventh and eighth, 40 per cent for ninth and 10th. (all others 100 per cent deferred).

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 25

The Golf Life Opinion by Jamie Diaz

The problem is that golf long ago ran out of truly iconic players to be enshrined.

Who (still) belongs in the Hall of Fame?

ONSIDER the following list of 21 names: Tom Weiskopf, Corey Pavin, Mark Calcavecchia, David Duval, Graham Marsh, Mike Souchak, Jug McSpaden, Johnny Revolta, Dutch Harrison, Jim Ferrier, Bill Melhorn, Doug Sanders, Johnny Farrell, MacDonald Smith, Max Faulkner, Bobby Cruickshank, Willie MacFarland, Hal Sutton, Susie Berning, Jan Stephenson, Sandra Palmer.

It’s a list, surely random to non-golfers, but also probably underwhelming to most golfers brought up in our current celebrity culture. Among the men, none won more than one Major, and only Aussie Graham Marsh (who had one US PGA Tour victory but 45 more on assorted international tours) had more than the 24 official victories of the Major-less Smith.

But by definition, or at least my estimation, all are or were great golfers. And, very likely, in coming years most, if not, all will be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Under the Hall’s new criteria established in 2014, all meet the eligibility requirements for induction. All are either deceased or at least 50 years old, and have won either the minimum 15 official victories on one or, in combination, more of the world’s accredited tours (for the men: the US PGA Tour, European Tour, Asian Tour, Japanese Tour, Australasian PGA Tour, Sunshine Tour; for the women: the LPGA, the Ladies European Tour, the Japan LPGA, the Korea LPGA and Australia Ladies Professional Golf), or have at least two victories among the Majors (current or past) and/or

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the Players Championship.

To some hardline golf historians, including some former players, the new criteria is too watered down and accommodating, so that golf’s pantheon has at best become a “Hall of very good.� However, it’s a narrow-minded view. The practical reality is that golf, like any major sport, needs a vibrant Hall of Fame. The problem is that golf long ago ran out of truly iconic players to be enshrined. They all got in a long time ago, unfortunately in bunches. In 1974, the WGHOF's first induction class included 13 such icons: Patty Berg, Walter Hagen, Ben Hogan, Bobby Jones, Byron Nelson, Jack Nicklaus, Francis Ouimet, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Gene Sarazen, Sam Snead, Harry Vardon and Babe Zaharias. The next year, 11 greats of slightly lesser fame and accomplishment went in. Talk about blowing your savings account.

Golf’s Hall also made a mistake in the past decade in inducting clearly destined players in in their 40s – specifically Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els and Vijay Singh – in the interests of adding marquee value for the televised ceremony.

But all three were simply too young to carry much gravitas.

Lifting the minimum age of active players to 50 ensures the mistake will not be repeated with Tiger Woods, who turns that age in 2025, or for that matter, the now 46-year-old Jim Furyk.

Relatively speaking, the newest class, named in October and set for official induction in September 2017, has a lot of quality. Off their records, Lorena Ochoa (27 LPGA wins, four Majors in eight seasons) and Davis Love III (21 US PGA Tour wins, one Major and two Players) were most worthy, with Ian Woosnam (a former World No.1 who won The Masters and 29 official tournaments in Europe) next best.

Golf’s Hall of Fame problem is that it’s a sport in which the

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

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The selection committee only statistic that truly counts should be liberal in recognising is winning (not consistently the game’s best players from high finishes). Moreover, there modern eras, because achieving are fewer past athletes than the minimum numbers is going team sports, not to mention a to get harder. For example, relatively small pool of frequent Bubba Watson should go in on winners to choose from. the strength of his two Masters There were 145 inductees in and for being one of the most the first 40 years of the Hall. astounding shotmakers the Over the next 40 years, the game has ever seen. Three number of newcomers can’t current European veterans top 100, and will probably be – Lee Westwood (with 42 significantly less. official worldwide victories There is no doubt the WGHOF but no Major), Sergio Garcia has set minimum victory (25 including a Players) and requirement that is lower than Henrik Stenson (a British what had unofficially been Open and a Players among his imposed. But it had to. While 15) – should get in even if they 15 lifetime victories seemed never hit another shot. And so like a pittance when the game’s should Retief Goosen, whose giants – several with more than 34 official victories include 60 victories and in some cases two US Open titles. double-digit Majors – were Giving more weight to being inducted, it’s also become international tours widens clear that winning 15 times in the pool of potential inductees the post-1975 era is a greater and makes a statement that achievement than it would have golf is a world game. It’s been before. made important strides to Recognising the greatness in be respected, credible and players who were stalwarts but edifying Hall of Fame, one didn’t win as much as the very whose leadership thoughtfully best helps one understand the defines and justly applies a immense challenge of the game. standard that recognises the Lowering standards increases gradations of greatness, not just appreciation, and keeps up the supply of candidates. It’s all good. the absolutes.

GETTY IMAGES: VINCENT LAFORET / STRINGER

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The Golf Life Opinion by Andrew Daddo

The Offspring

Imagine having a pro golfer for a child?

EAR with me, for what follows may seem out of place in a golf magazine.

The other night, I went to a discotheque to see a band. I know what you’re thinking: I made sure my pants were hitched closer to my navel than my nipples. I was hip. I even shaved my beard, but left my moustache. Cool, right?

A little bit hipster, but not embarrassingly so.

The band was called Sons of the East. My kids dig them.

At our place, they’re on high rotation. The music – like my mo’ – is hipster. But accessible hipster, like when my dad comes round he doesn’t say, “Turn that racket off,” like does that when I play One Direction.

There’s a line out the front and some bloke asks for my ID (OK, I made that up) and soon enough I’m literally transported back to the ‘80s – when seeing bands was cool.

It was so great to be dragged from the lounge in my tracksuit pants to a world I’d long forgotten. But once there, once in the middle of the cut and thrust of this music I’d only heard on Spotify, the old groove came flooding back.

A casual glance through the forest of ‘man buns’ and it was clear we were the oldest people there. But then after looking around, while outnumbered, there were a few of us who’d remember when you could only pay cash for drinks at the bar.

I said g’day to another greying gent. His son was one of the boys in the band, who were staggeringly good – and not just because I’d drunk my weight in beer. This dad was proud, and I was proud for him because up there, on a small stage with four other young men, they provided

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a crowd with musical happiness.

It was amazing. And moving.

Somehow, though, I got thinking about golf – of course I did. While this proud father was singing every word, probably air guitaring every chord and absolutely bursting with pride, I was imagining what it’d like having a child playing professional golf.

Imagine being part of the gallery? Your kid’s out there, inside the ropes, slugging it out for his livelihood. Me, I’d be riding every shot. I’d be reading every putt, questioning chip shots over flops, Texas wedges

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

over bump-and-runs.

It was all I could see in my head, but the soundtrack was Sons of the East. It was magic. The timing must have been right. Maybe it’s because we’re on the cusp of another Australian summer of golf.

A time of true, homegrown opportunity. Where stars will return home from tours of duty to reunite with family and friends. Joining them, journeymen still living the dream and youngsters hoping to emulate what their stars have achieved before them. It’s what I love about golf, but especially

Aussie golf. This is going to be a brilliant summer.

In the weirdest way, tournament golf is a bit like going to see a band; we all want to be amazed. We love to hear the crowd go up in appreciation, we love the roar, the singing along, to be humbled by an ability we may never have.

Isn’t it like that with golf?

Don’t we all know some young pro ready to step up and take the world by the throat and say, “I’m here. I’m ready. I can play.”

Sons of the East were a bit like that.

I hope your golfer is, too.

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The Golf Life Opinion by Annabel Rolley

• Annabel Rolley is an Australian Golf Professional and host of Australian Golf Digest TV www.annabelrolley.com

The Oval Office

Golf and politics don’t mix. But sometimes, we have no choice.

Y THE time you read this there will be a new leader of the free world.

And one of the candidates they were all talking about was an old boss of mine.

My media teachers at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) advised me never to speak ill about a celebrity. But I’m about to break that rule and spill the beans on “The Donald.”

The good. The bad. The ugly.

After my traineeship at Royal Sydney, I landed a dream job in 2011 and moved to the United States to be a teaching pro at Trump National Golf Club in Westchester County, New York.

This is one of America’s most affluent and salubrious areas – 40 minutes north of Manhattan.

Its membership includes Bill and Hillary Clinton, actor Mark Wahlberg, NFL star Tom Brady, half of the New York Yankees side and many more. It was a mix of celebrities, millionaires and billionaires. During my time at the club I got to know Donald Trump and his many vices – cheating at golf, placing banana skins and empty diet Coke cans in other golfers’ bags, even asking me to sell his used belts in the pro shop (kind of strange for a billionaire). It’s disturbing to think a potential President of the United States possesses this sort of juvenile and eccentric behaviour.

These acts are evidence he lacks integrity, maturity and rationale – the very traits I would imagine are critical for a leader to have.

His intellect is on the questionable side too – he isn’t educated at the level as his predecessor, Barack Obama, and his history of personal financial 30

instability demonstrates he is a risk taker.

Without question the man is obscure in every way. Some of the behaviour I witnessed during my time in New York defied belief. He threw tantrums at staff when things weren’t as he wished, he selected his staff on their looks and has even fired ‘fat’ girls. He yelled at everyone and didn’t understand the process of conversation. He fired questions and didn’t wait to hear the answers. He fired staff that were loyal and capable because they annoyed him once.

And once you were in his bad books, you were never given a second chance.

He told me directly he held

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

a theory where he tried to surround himself with beautiful things – beautiful women being the most obvious one – and he believed beautiful things will eventuate from this.

But I’m a fair person, so I will list the positive aspects of his leadership I witnessed within the golf club environment.

He is a family man – all members of his family were with him most of the time and the support system amongst them was evident. His sons, Donald Jr and Eric and daughter Ivanka are heavily immersed in his businesses and he fully supports them in their own endeavours.

He understands business

transactions – you can’t run an empire (golf courses, real estate, Miss America and Miss Universe competitions) without comprehending commercial deals and relationships. He is patriotic and wants to make a difference in his own country using his position of power and influence as a major public figure.

He wants to stand up and take action. I respect his industrious and proactive attitude.

Donald Trump is a juvenile and eccentric man driven by the dollar and beautiful women.

Should he become the leader of the free world and will he be a good one? Only time will tell.

But I’m comforted there is at least a Congress in place.

GETTY IMAGES: MIAMI HERALD / CONTRIBUTOR

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Opinion

Mr. X

Undercover Tour Pro How a US Open champion ranks the Majors ’VE won a US Open, though it’s probably my least favourite Major. When you play in all four every season, which I’ve been fortunate to do for a solid chunk of my career, you learn what to expect from each. I can’t speak for the fans, but to a golfer, each Major championship is like a different character.

At The Masters, the overriding sense is the members of Augusta National want you to have the best day of your life. Monday through Sunday, every time you enter their gates, you feel like a priority. One can only imagine the decision-making that goes into every detail. The setup of the locker room and the practice

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facilities, the choreography of security and waste management, parking, dining options – it’s all perfect and elegant and yet somehow they find subtle ways to make improvements each year.

The moist towel when you most need yet least expect one.

The members are a presence in their green jackets, but mostly they just recede into the frame.

They want to deflect attention away from themselves and onto us. I’d imagine the “patrons” feel somewhat the same way.

At the US Open, on the other hand, the week is all about the United States Golf Association.

We take a back seat to whatever initiatives or campaigns the USGA is trumpeting. Forget about

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

the host course, the story is going to be what the USGA has done to protect par. We’re welcomed as the world’s best golfers, certainly, but there’s a weird psychological edge to many of the gestures. It’s the same spirit of condescension that reminds me a lot of amateur tournaments when I was a teenager: You go out and play on our golf course, son; we’ll be inside the clubhouse in our blue blazers, running the show.

That the USGA insists on tee times for practice rounds is just one example of the ridiculousness. At virtually every other event we play, there’s the option to practise and then casually link up with others on the way to the tee. But at the US Open we have to notify them of our plans in advance. Because this system prevents guys who just want to play from easily jumping around the guys who want to seriously study the course, it inevitably leads to sixhour rounds for everyone.

This year the USGA had its

embarrassments with the Dustin Johnson ruling and Brittany Lang being called the wrong name at the awards ceremony. All I’ll say is, I wasn’t surprised.

The British, or Open Championship, is somewhere in between. A lot of that same imperious attitude exists, the old chums in charge, spilled brandy on dusty blazers – or kummel or port or whatever old Chappy likes to start with at lunch. But the R&A officials don’t seem as adamant about asserting that they’re in control. The weather decides the tournament, and they’re fine with that. The towns and the people capture your attention, but the weather is always what I remember most from each year. Stark skies, grey rains, mists that feel saturated with the ghosts of old caddies.

Just being there is a special feeling of connection to the game and time. I always look forward to playing.

The US PGA Championship is run brilliantly and is probably the smallest departure from what we’re used to at a regular tour event. If that sounds like a backhanded compliment, that’s because it is. We all feel that extra Major pressure, but the energy is somehow slightly less than the other three. Partly, I think it’s because the PGA of America often chooses sites based on economic reasons. Not that there’s anything wrong with that – rationally is how the world ought to behave – but I think if the PGA was played exclusively at historic courses, its character might change.

Next year it’s at Quail Hollow.

The atmosphere will inevitably feel somewhat like the Wells Fargo Championship, which the course has hosted for years.

If you’ve never won a Major, I think the tendency is to see each as an equal opportunity.

Maybe I’ve become somewhat settled about my career and accomplishments, but nowadays when I pack my bags, I’m thinking about the experience I’m about to have.

– WITH M A X ADLER

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The members of Augusta National want you to have the best day of your life.

A dance floor like no other Reaching the dance floor in regulation is one thing but falling in love when you get there is quite another.

The Brisbane Golf Club is proud to be ranked in the top 100 golf courses in Australia and is celebrating its 120 year anniversary in 2016. We are proud to be the host venue of the Isuzu Queensland Open and to be Australia’s only ‘Champion’ golf course.

To join our membership waiting list contact Geoff Kuehner, General Manager on 0411 412 666 or geoff@brisbanegolfclub.com.au www.brisbanegolfclub.com.au

The Golf Life

Weird & Wacky

A man in Darwin died after a large branch broke off a tree and struck him.

4. _AN = LKKN ODKP KJ = AS York golf course, a teenager slammed his 3-wood against a bench. The club snapped, and a piece was propelled back towards him and pierced his heart. There were doctors at the course who attempted to save him before he was taken to the hospital and LNKJKQJ?A@ @A=@Ż A S=O PDA second golfer we found who was GEHHA@ >U PDA OD=_ KB KJA KB DEO clubs. Another died when his driver broke during a swing and L=NP KB PDA OD=_ LEAN?A@ =J =NPANU in his groin, causing him to bleed to death.

5. In California, an 83-year-old celebrated his 18th hole-in-one only to die from an aneurysm IKIAJPO =_AN DEO O?KNA?=N@ D=@ >AAJ RANE[A@Ż 6. In Canada, a golfer died on PDA ?KQNOA =_AN DEO ?=NP DEP = retaining wall and tumbled 20 feet to the road below. The death was ruled accidental, though the coroner noted that the man’s blood-alcohol level was twice the legal limit.

7. During a round with her family EJ =L=Jż = SKI=J @NKSJA@ =_AN falling into a sinkhole that formed in the middle of a fairway. The S=PANƄ[HHA@ DKHA S=O =>KQP jnƄBAAP @AAL =J@ [RAƄBAAP SE@A =J@ S=O O=E@ PK >A ?=QOA@ >U = NQJKY PD=P made the turf collapse.

The 10 Worst Ways to Die on a Golf Course Sadly, it does happen LTHOUGH rare, it’s possible to play lights out – for good.

In 2014, 30,047 people visited the world's emergency rooms with golf-course-related injuries and 15,225 more as a result of a golf-cart “incident.” We learned this in our effort to determine the odds of dying on a golf course. Unfortunately, after consulting with an expert in risk management at Harvard

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University and looking over obituaries and data from various control centres, we determined that the figure is undeterminable.

Too many variables. The best we could come up with is that it’s somewhere far south of 0.5 per cent. What we do know is some golfers have died in horrible ways. Here are the 10 most bizarre on-course deaths we found.

—BRITTANY ROMANO

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

1. A man in Ireland was searching for his ball in a ditch when a rat ran up his leg, urinated and bit DEIŻ DA I=J [JEODA@ DEO NKQJ@ @AOLEPA OQYANEJC PDA >EPAŻ A @EA@ two weeks later from kidney failure, a symptom of Weil’s disease, which is carried by rats.

2. I=J HA_ = ENCEJE= ?KQJPNU club with a headache, which was compounded by fever, nausea and a rash. Four days later, he was in the hospital covered with blisters and died from a severe allergic reaction to a pesticide used on PDA ?KQNOAŻ 3. In another toxic incident, a PAAJ=CAN BNKI NEVKJ= @EA@ =_AN drinking from a golf-course water ?KKHANŻ A ?KJPN=?PA@ = JKNKRENQO from water that was contaminated.

8. [CDP >APSAAJ = CKHBAN =J@ the threesome playing behind him turned deadly when a man was fatally kicked in the chest.

The argument stemmed from the threesome losing their patience waiting on the guy to search for a lost ball. A jury ruled that the kick was an act of self-defence.

9. _AN DEO NKQJ@ż = I=J S=O searching for balls in a South African dam when he was attacked by a crocodile and @EO=LLA=NA@ EJPK PDA S=PANŻ EO body was found the next morning, without mutilation but with a few teeth marks. Park rangers killed the 12-foot reptile.

10. I=J EJ =NSEJ @EA@ =_AN = H=NCA >N=J?D >NKGA KY = PNAA =J@ struck him while he was waiting to PAA KYŻ A OQYANA@ OARAN=H EJFQNEAO that contributed to his death six days later.

Illustration by Dan Woodger

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What Really Happened

The Golf Life

TURNING A LEMON INTO LEMONADE B l PParkk GGolflf ClClubb iis bbackk iin bbusiness i ffollowing ll i th h iimposition iti off a Beverley the stormwater channel on its golf course. By Rohan Clarke

EVERLEY Park Golf Club faced a crisis 12 months ago. Its golf course was undergoing a partial renovation to guard the surrounding residential area against the 1-in-a-100 year flood.

A stormwater overflow channel was being created, forcing the reconfiguration of six holes. It meant the publicaccess course on reclaimed land near Kogarah Bay in Sydney’s south had been turned into a construction zone.

On the club's recommendation, Georges River Council (previously Kogarah Council) appointed Sydney-based architect James Wilcher of Golf By Design to integrate the stormwater overflow channel into the golf course as effectively as possible.

Meanwhile, temporary greens and tees were introduced to preserve an 18-hole layout (which reverted to a par 61) while the disruption occurred.

The Beverley Park Channel Project was something the club had to endure to meet a requirement of Federal, State and Local government to address flood mitigation for residents in Ferry Avenue.

While $1.3 million in government grants funded the works, it was a very testing time for a club that celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2016. The inconvenience was a financial disaster, projected to reach $350,000 and beyond. The club lost $111,576 in subscription revenue when 155 members resigned on masse, clearly

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irritated by the prospect of playing on temporary greens and an undersized course for 12 months.

Green fee revenue fell substantially along with turnover in the clubhouse, leading to the resignation of the caterers. In the golf shop, club professional Greg Green retrenched his staff and became accustomed to working 75-hour weeks in order to make ends meet.

“The impact has been significant on the club’s and our contractors' trading with a downturn in participation and subsequent revenue,” said a boardroom report to members.

“It is obvious that the efforts of the board and staff to provide members with an 18-hole course during the six-month project period was not good enough for 20 per cent of the membership

and public players who abandoned the rest of us.”

BEVERLEY PARK BUZZING Twelve months later and pain has turned to pleasure. Beverley Park opened its revamped 18hole layout (5,570 metres, par 70) in September with Federal Treasurer Scott Morrison in attendance.

What surprised most has been the reaction. The new holes have added character to what was a rather unfashionable public-access course. Many of the departed members have returned. Social play has increased significantly, including visits by members of The Australian, The Lakes and New South Wales. They were said to have come away impressed by the design, aesthetics and conditioning.

Golfers have universally praised Wilcher’s work, which features water on five of the new holes plus a double green (1st and 17th). The pick is the second hole, a devilishly tricky par 3 of 153 metres, where the stormwater channel runs along the left-hand side of the green and out into a pond behind the putting surface. Two bunkers on the right effectively give the impression of a green surrounded by a horseshoeshaped hazard.

Beverley Park is now flourishing. Most telling has been the buoyant atmosphere and pride around the club.

Sometimes it's true – you can turn a lemon into lemonade.

• Rohan Clarke has been a member of Beverley Park Golf Club for the past 32 years.

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 37

The Golf Life Rules

You do not get relief if your ball is resting in an aeration hole.

Proceed Carefully

Don’t let course maintenance trip you up EEPING your favourite course as pretty and playable as possible takes a lot of hard work.

Kudos to superintendents and their crews. However, you still might encounter times when a construction zone affects your round.

For a refresher on what to do in many situations, read on.

K

—RON KASPRISKE

▶ GROUND UNDER REPAIR These areas are usually marked by lines or stakes, but not always.

If you encounter a hole made by the superintendent’s staff or materials that have been piled for removal, they’re GUR. This includes grass clippings and cut-up wood from a downed tree. The key words are “piled for removal.” If it’s just lying there, it’s not GUR. Furthermore, washouts from big rain storms aren’t GUR unless they’re marked. When your ball is located within GUR, how you proceed depends on where the ball is located. In most cases you find the nearest point that’s clear of interference from the area, and drop within one club-length of that spot, but not closer to the hole. An exception is if the GUR and the ball are on the putting green. In this case, you find the nearest point of relief that isn’t closer to the hole, and then place the ball. The only situations you don’t receive relief without penalty from GUR are when your ball is in a water hazard or when your ball is in a bunker and you choose to drop outside that bunker. Final thought: You can play the ball as it lies in GUR, but first check to see if the course or committee has enacted a Local 38

Rule mandating that you must take relief.

Shallow indentations do not qualify.

▶ AERATION HOLES AND HOLE PLUGS

▶ HOSES, SPRINKLERS,

Superintendents routinely poke holes into your golf course.

Sometimes these holes, and the plugs of turf removed when the holes are created, can get in the way of a good round.

Unfortunately, unless a Local Rule is in effect, you do not get relief if your ball is resting in an aeration hole. You can, however, remove plugs of turf around your ball provided you don’t move your ball in the process.

Your course needs water. That means there’s a good chance you’re going to encounter equipment needed to irrigate.

You get free relief if you find your ball next to a hose or a sprinkler head (same applies for rakes, ladders and any other maintenance equipment).

Remember that your stance, ball or intended swing has to be interfered with to take relief. If possible, have the equipment removed and play on. If your ball moved in the process, just return it to its original position. You do not get relief if a sprinkler head is in your line of play. An example is if you want to putt from off the green and a sprinkler head is between your ball and the hole. You also don’t get relief if a sprinkler douses your ball or comes on as you’re about to hit.

Treat any visible accumulation

▶ MOWERS AND THEIR TRACKS

If your ball ends up in a rut created by a cart or maintenance vehicle, it’s up to the course or committee to declare it GUR. If not, play it as it lies. Keep in mind that the rut would have to be significant to even warrant consideration.

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

SPRINKLER HEADS

of water created by the sprinkler, before or after taking your stance, as casual water.

▶ PESTICIDES AND FERTILISER Ball covered in chemicals?

Unfortunately, it’s against the rules in most cases to lift and clean your ball before you reach the putting green. But you can treat applications, such as foam, as movable obstructions and take relief without penalty.

.-. /3'8 Your ball lands on a green covered with leaves. How long can you spend clearing leaves to hit your putt before you are hit with a delay penalty?

Q

You may take as long as you need provided you don’t unduly delay play. In other words, just be mindful of the group behind you. Will you, please?

A

The Golf Life NZ Digest by Denise Langdon LIKE US ON

facebook.com/ GolfDigestAU

A New Era

Watershed meeting looks at the future direction of NZ golf EW Zealand Golf is further developing its initiative to have an all-inclusive golf council to help secure the game of golf in the country.

It’s a gutsy strategy involving many stakeholders, many of whom came together for a second national meeting in Auckland recently to share ideas.

Various golf districts and golf clubs, Golf Tourism New Zealand, magazine and television media, the New Zealand Golf Open, junior golf organisations such as SNAG Golf, the PGA and various members of the New Zealand Golf team and board were represented.

Suppliers such as Titleist and New Zealand’s handicap provider DotGolf attended, along with PaR nz Golfing Holidays as a representative tour and tournament company and partner to NZ Golf.

The meeting supported progressing the concept of a golf council. It identified the next major steps to include establishing working priorities, electing personnel to be part of the project working group, and appointing a council chairperson.

It is a widely held view that the past and current membership model will need to change to reflect the evolving nature and demographics of golfers in New Zealand – and in many worldwide golf bodies.

New Zealand Golf presented the forum with interesting statistics that challenged the basis of the current membership model.

Despite the advent of online booking systems, about a third of all players under 65 years phone the club to book tee times.

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Looking at it another way, about 37 per cent of previous members still phone their respective club for a tee booking, with the remainder evenly split between just turning up at the club and booking online.

Casual golfers book online up to 45 per cent of the time, with 31 per cent phoning the club. These figures indicate that a seamless and friendly phone answering system is still very much needed at clubs to secure these bookings.

Online equipment purchases, however, are growing. Between 16 per cent and 18 per cent of golfers purchase online, with no marked difference between members and casual golfers.

Local pro shops are supported by 39 per cent of members, and 28 per cent of casual golfers. About a quarter of casual golfers and club members purchase equipment from New Zealand’s biggest golf retail chain, The Golf Warehouse, which has 10 stores.

Green fees need to be looked at if golf is to attract and retain more ‘casual’ golfers as opposed to long-term club members. The recent New Zealand Golf survey revealed that 80 per cent of all green fees booked are less than $40 a round. Compare that to, say, standard movie tickets now being priced at $18 each. The annual yield from green fees for clubs in the greater Auckland area has fallen by about 50 per cent during

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

the past five years. Of those paying for green fees, 74 per cent of members have played up to 10 other courses, with 80 per cent of casual players playing up to 10 different courses every year.

If casual golfers want to continue to play when they want, where they want and how they want, there is an argument for changing the current membership model and charging higher green fees.

Of the current membership types offered at golf clubs in New Zealand, full-time members were down in both men’s and women’s clubs with summer and nine-hole memberships up. Secondary student numbers were also up over the past five-year period.

Rounds of golf booked by members fell by more than 11,000 rounds a year between 2011 and 2015, according to figures sourced from cards via DotGolf. Member rounds visiting other clubs rose more than 12,800 rounds a year, and casual rounds increased by more than 24,000 each year between 2011 and 2015.

It would seem that the relatively cheap price of green fees is a factor in this trend for casuals, and even members, playing other clubs far more today than five years ago.

A powerful tool in recruiting members is still through associations and introductions from other family members or

friends. More than two-thirds of new golfers are introduced to the game this way. Clubs can use this knowledge to boost their memberships through targeted schemes.

For casual golfers, the lack of time, along with perceived affordability, and the wish for flexibility to play more courses are the main reasons given for why they do not join clubs. Clubs are also perceived as having too many rules and regulations.

Social or casual golfers surveyed by New Zealand Golf indicated they would join up if clubs offered packages that included access to several courses within the area. Golf is a key industry, estimated to be in excess of $1 billion in New Zealand, but could even be as high as $1.5 billion. New Zealand Golf is undertaking vital new research in this area.

For comparison, Scotland’s golf industry has been estimated as being worth £1.171 billion [A$1.9 billion / NZ$2 billion].

As with many organisations around the world, New Zealand Golf has many challenges and we applaud them for this initiative.

The results of the initial survey work give all in the industry much to think about.

Denise Langdon is the Director of PaR nz Golfing Holidays, based in Auckland.

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by Auckland City in April and The 2017 Akarua Arrowtown Autumn Festival 21-25 April. Players will compete over 2 rounds, 18 holes on Jacks Point and 18 holes on Millbrook with pairs split into divisions by age, handicap and team composition – men, women and mixed pairs. All handicap levels welcome.

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Millbrook

Play Your Best Swing Sequence EVIN Chappell has figured something out. Going into the Tour Championship, where he lost a playoff to Rory McIlroy, Chappell had made 18 of 26 cuts, compared to 17 of 26 a year earlier. But his earnings more than tripled, from $US1.3 million in 2015 to $4.5 million in 2016. “I found a formula that works for me,” Chappell says. “I’m practising less but

K

smarter. My family is the most important thing to me.” With better balance in his life, he says he’s keeping his golf in perspective.

The best player in collegiate golf in 2008, Chappell played on the Nationwide Tour and started working his way up the US PGA Tour ladder. Then, early this year he had three second-place finishes – behind Kevin Kisner at the RSM Classic and then to Jason Day at

the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Players. He ended the season by reaching the playoff at the Tour Championship.

Working with his teacher of five years, Mark Blackburn, Chappell has learned to control his iron shots with a shorter action.

Check it out below. “This swing really works in pressure situations,” Chappell says, and he’s starting to prove it. – ROGER SCHIFFMAN

+ NIKE shirt, pants, shoes & hat

Kevin Chappell Learning control and putting up good numbers

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BALL FORWARD

WIDE OFF THE BALL

STAYING CENTRED

Even though Chappell’s playing a lower shot here for control, he keeps the ball position forward. “When you move the ball back,” says his teacher, Mark Blackburn, “you can hit it too much from the inside. Kevin controls trajectory by pivoting his body forward on the downswing.”

Chappell makes a wide move starting back, shiting into his right heel. “This loads the upper body over a stable lower body,” Blackburn says. “The key is to have enough time to make the swing. People tend to get short and quick when they try to hit a knockdown.”

Ater a late wrist hinge, Chappell keeps his arm swing abbreviated. “This ensures he can control the downswing pivot,” Blackburn says. “His head is still centred between his feet, which encourages minimal upperbody tilt through impact. That keeps the ball flight down.”

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

▶ GREENS IN REGULATION

66.4%

Kevin Chappell (71st)

▶ APPROACHES OUTSIDE 90 METRES

65%

71.6%

Tour average

Lucas Glover (1st)

31’ 6”

Kevin Chappell (41st)

32’ 10”

27’

Tour average

Robert Garrigus (1st) SO U RC E : S H OT L I N K

Photographs by J.D. Cuban

THE FORWARD PIVOT

NO BIG DIG HERE

LOW AND AROUND

“One of Kevin’s key moves is his dynamic transition into the downswing. His lower body moves towards the target while his upper body stays stable,” Blackburn says. He’s pivoting forward without making a big slide or driving hard.

Being centred at impact guarantees that Chappell delivers the club without adding lot. “Kevin, like most great ballstrikers, delots the club with a shallow angle of attack,” Blackburn says. “This produces less spin, made possible by his level body motion.”

In the finish, Chappell is loaded into his let leg with the club extended.

“The abbreviated finish is the trademark of a low shot, where the club has moved down and around through impact without the wrists rehinging,” Blackburn says. “This proves no lot was added.”

PRO-FILE kevin chappell 30 / 182cm / 82 kilograms Scottsdale driver Nike Vapor Fly Flex 10.5 degrees ball Nike RZN Tour Platinum

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 43

COURSE

REVIEW

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australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

NEW

TERRITORY Melbourne's northern suburbs are a relativelyforeign landscape forgolf. Yet Club Mandalay– 25 minutes from Melbourne airport – is set to take off. ByEvin Priest

Gary Lisbon Photography

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 45

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I

N DECEMBER 1824, renowned Australian explorers Hamilton Hume and William Hovell stood atop Victoria’s Mt Fraser. The duo gazed across the land and spotted Port Phillip Bay – their discovery would result in the founding of the city of Melbourne.

What the pair didn’t realise was that 192 years later, the vast countryside they were looking over would become a sprawling Metropolis populated from Port Phillip Bay down to the tip of the Mornington Peninsula.

Granted, it would have been difficult in 1824 to picture a cosmopolitan city whose only viable option for expansion was north – where they were located – or west.

They certainly didn’t expect the paddocks on which they were standing would become an exciting residential golf community with a course designed by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson as its centrepiece.

Finding the architect Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett were between a rock and a hard place.

Literally.

The legendary Australian golfer and his design partner had “competed hard” to win the design job at Club Mandalay.

They’d come up against Greg Norman Golf Course Design, and won.

But as work began on the site – in Melbourne’s north – the Ross Perrett team discovered there were rocks. Lots of rocks.

“We’d competed pretty hard. It came down to us and Greg Norman,” Perrett tells 46

'Though the course is located in an area closely tied with the history of Melbourne, Club Mandalay represents the future of Victoria's rapidly growing capital' AUSTRALIAN GOLF DIGEST. “We got the job, and during initial site viewings we noticed it was very rocky.

“There was a large pile of basalt rocks as you drove in and past the clubhouse.

Transporting all that basalt off the site was a pretty big job.”

But the firm behind courses such as The National (Ocean), Moonah Links and Hope Island accepted the challenge. Rather than see the rocks as an obstacle, the duo sought to make them a feature of Club Mandalay’s layout. Today, the rocky outcrops act as eyecatching features beside tee boxes and greens, giving the impression the golf course was carved out of the landscape harmoniously.

“The site started to reveal itself,” says Perrett. “And it got better and better as we went through the design process. I’m proud of it and I know Peter is very happy with it.”

A pleasant surprise On first impression, Club Mandalay looks to be a relatively flat piece of land. But this topography was important to the vision for this residential golfing estate in the suburb of Beveridge, 25 minutes north of Melbourne’s

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

Tullamarine airport. Club Mandalay is situated in the northern growth corridor of Melbourne – earmarked for a significant population spike in the future. For those new residents, perhaps not all golfers, a course that is either too difficult a walk or too challenging on the scorecard won’t resonate with the vast population at Mandalay’s doorstep. But rest assured: Thomson and Perrett have created enough changes in elevation to keep the round exciting.

It was also the mantra behind Thomson Perrett’s bunkering at Club Mandalay. Well, one of the mantras. The Thomson Perrett Firm lives by a philosophy: “Respect for land,

respect for culture and respect for the game.� “We were dealing with a rocky site, so we kept the bunkering to a minimum,� says Perrett. “It had to be strategic and make the golfer think about the shot – not just bunkering for the sake of it.�

Thomson Perrett felt the sand hazards at Kingston Heath – ranked No.2 in Australia by this magazine – were best suited to the site. Wide, round bunker complexes – most measuring only one metre deep – complement the layout. “We love the bunkering at Kingston Heath,� says Perrett. “The bunkering there is about the best in Melbourne. Mandalay’s bunkers are of a similar size to Kingston Heath.�

Indeed, the traps are tough but fair at Club Mandalay – striking a happy medium between punishing errant shots and rewarding good sand play. On almost every hole, they're placed at strategic distances to invite the golfer to either go for hero tee shots or lay up short of the trouble. Greenside bunkers are slightly deeper than their fairway counterparts, but shallow enough to reward good shots.

The scorecard’s biggest defence are its par 3s – each forcing the golfer to hit mid to long iron shots at considerable trajectories in order to stop the ball on shallow greens. This presents an added challenge as higher ball flights are at the mercy of prevailing winds.

On the other hand, Club Mandalay’s welcome mats are its par 5s – greens that are reachable in two for longer hitters. The entire course is also pleasantly forgiving from the tee via generous driving zones and a light first cut of rough. This is important, especially for new golfers, as getting to the fairway can be the most difficult aspect.

The par 4s here reward the plotter, with certain zones of the fairways considerably easier to approach the green than others.

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Club Mandalay's signature is the 18th – a 391-metre par 4 with views of the clubhouse and historic Mt Fraser in the background. “I’ve spoken to a few members from Kingston Heath and Royal Melbourne who have driven up to play Mandalay and were pleasantly surprised,� says Perrett. “It’s something of an oasis – there are a couple of water holes that might surprise people given it was farmland. It’s a really good test of golf for all abilities.�

Development and community Many believe the only direction the greater city of Melbourne can grow is north.

This was the idea behind developing a residential golf community just off the Hume Highway. But don't fret – the ultraconvenient suburb of Beveridge can also be accessed via country roads, thus allowing frequent fliers to avoid the motorway en

route to Tullamarine Airport.

The planned community was created with a championship course as its centrepiece.

Enhancing the community appeal is a six-lane, 25-metre swimming pool, two tennis courts, children’s splash park and playground, clubhouse bar and restaurant offering fine dining, as well as several kilometres of walking tracks and bike paths.

Club Mandalay provides golfers with a few highly tempting benefits – namely two full adult golf memberships to the golf course with the purchase of a home. It also comes with two years of paid Owners Corporation Contributions. Now that's living.

THE DETAILS Club Mandalay Where: 430-450 Mandalay Circuit, Beveridge VIC 3753 Phone: (03) 9037 3700 Web: clubmandalay.com.au

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december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 47

Jack

GETS HIS DUE

Jack Newton’s induction into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame is a nod to his work off the course as much as it is recognition of an outstanding playing career cut short.

By Geoff Armstrong ACK NEWTON has become the 13th golfer to be inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame. And what elite company he has joined – Doug Bachli, Bruce Crampton, Jim Ferrier, David Graham, Edwina Kennedy, Kel Nagle, Greg Norman, Jan Stephenson, Peter Thomson, Norman von Nida, Ivo Whitton and Leonora Wray.

These men and women have earned this recognition through their remarkable playing achievements and, in some cases, because they served as trailblazers, too.

Newton is a little different. Yes, he was a golfer who did some exceptional things, but he’s in the Hall of Fame for reasons beyond how he swung a club. For character, courage, persistence and resilience, his story is second to none.

Expectations were high when Newton turned professional back in 1969. Such was his all-round sporting prowess, there was a belief he would become a star, whichever game he played. But golf was his first love.

Quickly, he was being backed by Slazenger and mentored by Norman von Nida.

The early results, however, were disappointing. Newton admitted in early 1972 that professional golf was “nowhere near as easy as I thought it would be”.

His response was built on a mantra his grandfather had lived by: “If you’re not going to give something your best shot, don’t do it in the first place.” Yes, he liked a drink and a good time, but the “wowsers” (as he called them) never saw the countless hours he was spending on the practice fairway.

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48

Bruce Devlin liked what he saw in his young compatriot, describing him simply as “a fighter”.

Over the next decade Newton would occasionally produce something special.

His first two overseas wins, the Dutch Open and the Benson & Hedges Golf Festival at York, came in consecutive weeks in 1972. He dominated the NSW Open in 1976, recording 20 birdies and an eagle to win by 10 shots. His one victory in the US was at the 1978 Buick Open. Most famous of all was his heroic effort at the 1975 British Open, when he wore short sleeves at rain-soaked Carnoustie and lost by

fact he’d skinned a bunker shot clean across the green at 14 and made double-bogey. But this time he landed the ball exactly where he needed to and it rolled to within 10 centimetres of the cup.

Two more pars and a three-putt by Norman at the final hole, and Newton was the champion.

“That’s one of the greatest shots I’ve ever seen,” quipped his playing partner Gary Player as they walked to the 17th tee. Newton was only the third local to win the Aussie Open in 18 years, after Peter Thomson in 1972 and David Graham in 1977.

Yes, he liked a drink and a good time, but the “wowsers” (as he called them) never saw the countless hours he was spending on the practice fairway a lip in a playoff to Tom Watson. He was also second at The Masters in 1980, three shots adrift of the great Seve Ballesteros.

Newton’s greatest triumph came at the 1979 Australian Open at Metropolitan, built on arguably the finest bunker shot in Australian golf history. On Sunday, Newton was locked in a thrilling four-way battle with Greg Norman, Bob Shearer and Graham Marsh, but found himself facing oblivion in a bunker at the back of the 16th green. There was no room for error as it was all downhill to the hole. Adding to the nerves was the

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

Turning tragedy into triumph The accident that changed everything occurred on a Sunday night in July 1983.

Newton was attempting to board a Cessna plane at Sydney airport when he was struck by the propeller, suffering innumerable internal injuries and losing an arm and an eye. “Jack’s a great competitor and that’s the reason he’s still alive,” says Devlin.

“The average person wouldn’t have come through that ordeal.”

On the following Thursday, the Newton

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Photography Gary Lisbon

australiangolfdigest.com.au 49

Sitting in hospital after his career-ending accident, Newton was immediately thinking how he could help kids get into golf new journey had already begun. What he has done since 1983 – establish the Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation, which continues to promote golf and boost participation rates among young players; raise millions of dollars for diabetes research and junior golf via the Jack Newton Celebrity Classic; become a respected golf course designer, writer, public speaker and Australia’s best ever TV golf commentator – is remarkable.

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50

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

When Tom Watson, immediately after the 1975 British Open, said, “Jack Newton is going to turn into a true champion,” he couldn’t have known how right he would be.

Newton’s commentary career actually dates back to 1975, when he worked for Channel Nine at the NSW Open. He couldn’t play because he was recovering from minor surgery, but acquitted himself admirably.

Peter Stone from The Age newspaper described him as an “instant success”.

In an interview with the Dallas Morning News in early 1985, Newton explained how he approached his new career: “I just feel like I can give the players better representation on TV, because I have experienced golf at a high standard as a player. I can give the public an insight on what’s going on inside the head of a player. I try to relate to a guy sitting around drinking beer and tell him what the players out on the course are trying to do.”

Over the next 20 years and more he never veered from this path, building a rapport with his audience few players-turnedcommentators have matched, describing the game with humour, gusto and rare insight, no rancour and total honesty. As always, Jack Newton was giving it his best shot.

That’s why he is in the Hall of Fame.

He truly is one of a kind.

AUGUSTA NATIONAL / CONTRIBUTOR; PETER DAZELEY / CONTRIBUTOR

family talked to reporters. “We’ve tried to be strong, but I think we’ve got our strength from Jack,” his father, Jack Sr, said softly.

“He’s been so great, he’s saved us from cracking up.”

Jack’s wife, Jackie, spoke of his “tremendous spirit and bravery,” and revealed he would remain in intensive care for at least 10 days (he would actually stay in hospital for two months, with more surgery to follow).

“He’s already thinking of plans to help young golfers get a start in the game,” she added.

“Jack thinks a lot of young golfers are not getting enough backing and he is hoping to get involved in some way.”

This was four days after the accident. A

Michelle Wie LPGA Tour Pro

TRAIN SMART. IMPROVE FAST

GOLF

2

PUNCHING ABOVE ITS WEIGHT Golf Australia’s high-performance program for elite amateurs is leading the world with a relativelymodest level of funding. ByRohan Clarke

I

T WASN’T that long ago that amateur golf in Australia was a mess. The newly formed governing body, Golf Australia, was in its infancy and decision-making was flawed. The high-performance program for elite amateurs – once the envy of the world – was in disarray.

Some performances in international competition were embarrassing, most notably at the 2006 World Amateur Teams Championship where the Australian men finished 12th after arriving in South Africa as one of the favourites. They were unprepared and lacked discipline.

52

Non-playing captain Roger Hunt was scathing in his official report and sheeted the blame home to management: “With the advent of Golf Australia in 2005 and the removal of certain staff of the former AGU, together with interference from outside areas (Canberra), the elite golfing scene was being run by a group of people that had little knowledge regarding team preparation.

“The administration of Golf Australia was appalling in regard to uniforms, travel arrangements, team selection etc, etc.

Nobody seemed to be able to make decisions.

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

“I don't think that (CEO) Tony Hallam was in favour of the event, which is emphasised by his non-attendance.”

But it wasn’t just at the elite level where there were problems. Poor behaviour began to creep onto the amateur circuit and a number of clubs were fed up with hosting low-handicap amateurs who walked around with a sense of entitlement.

Elite amateurs (national and state squad representatives) weren’t the problem. The culprits seemed to be a group that come and play national and state championships, probably aged between 18 and 23.

How times change. Today, the men’s amateur system is the strongest it’s ever been based on success at international level and by the dominance of amateurs at professional events in Australia.

The success began last November when Ben Eccles won the 2015 New South Wales Open. The trend continued in April when Curtis Luck won the WA Open, prevailing over another amateur Travis Smyth.

Over in America in July, Min Woo Lee emerged from his older sister Minjee’s shadow to win the United States Junior Amateur Championship. The following month Luck became just the third Australian to win the US Amateur Championship.

Luck, Cameron Davis and Harrison Endycott then produced a phenomenal performance in Mexico to win the men’s World Amateur Teams Championship by a massive 19 strokes. The trio tied the 72-hole scoring record as Australia claimed its fourth Eisenhower Trophy and first victory since 1996. Davis claimed individual honours with the lowest four-round aggregate.

Luck backed that up by winning the AsiaPacific Amateur Championship in Korea when he edged out compatriot Brett Coletta by a stroke. But Coletta had some redemption when he beat the pros at the Queensland Open in October. By that stage amateurs held three of the six state Open titles.

It’s an extraordinary achievement that highlights Australia’s high-performance program for elite amateurs is the benchmark in world golf. And much of the kudos should go to Golf Australia.

Why Australia excels The training of golfers was an area where Australia excelled in the 1990s when golf programs at the Victorian Institute of Sport (firstly under Steve Bann and Dale Lynch) and Australian Institute of Sport (the late Ross Herbert) set the bar for the world to follow.

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Golf had always been accessible to the masses in Australia, which has a climate conducive to playing the game 12 months of the year. However Bann, Lynch and Herbert brought a scientific approach – treating golfers as athletes.

The biomechanics of the golf swing was analysed. They brought in sports psychologists to train the mind.

Physiotherapists performed muscular/ skeletal screenings to prevent injury as well as design strength and conditioning programs. Dieticians stressed the importance of nutrition and hydration.

The national governing bodies for amateur golf – the Australian Golf Union (AGU) and Women’s Golf Australia (WGA) – embraced

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the methods and service providers of the VIS and AIS. Eventually, as you might expect, the rest of the world discovered the Australian system and bought into what we were doing.

And it wasn’t long before our competitive advantage had been neutralised.

Then came the tumultuous period leading up to and following the merger of the AGU and WGA in 2005. The creation of the new entity, Golf Australia, was characterised by leadership that couldn’t live within its means.

To put it bluntly, the interim board and chief executive officer Tony Hallam lost their way . . . and so did the high-performance program for elite amateurs.

Eventually, Hallam was sent packing and a new board was installed. The ship was righted when John Hopkins took over as chairman and Stephen Pitt was appointed chief executive. But resurrecting the highperformance program was a bit like turning around the Queen Mary.

It began in 2010 with a somewhat controversial appointment of Brad James as director of golf (high performance). With a background in American college golf, James was considered to be an outsider. He ruffled a few egos with his unconventional approach (such as a desire to see amateurs competing in strokeplay tournaments rather than antiquated matchplay formats/series).

Recent success has justified the new direction. A key focus has been long-term development rather than being obsessed by short-term results. It’s more about whether an athlete is doing the work required to have longevity on an international level. Making sure they’re physically and mentally strong enough to compete.

The holistic approach is about building a team around an athlete. But it’s also teaching

the golfer how to be self-sufficient.

And emphasis is placed on short-game resilience rather than beating balls in search of the perfect swing. The aim of the game is to get the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible.

And we shouldn’t underestimate the contribution of the PGA of Australia. Its accreditation and training programs allow elite amateurs to receive the very best coaching and tuition.

Talent identification is another area of progress. In this regard, there’s less bickering between club, state and national coaches who now work more closely together for the sake of the athlete. The same goes for the states and the national governing body.

“I think that’s why the program has had more success than what’s come before it. Six years ago we did revamp the program totally and try to take a much longer-term view of what we’re trying to achieve,” Pitt says.

“The vision is: can we create players who are going to be top-10 players that can win Major championships and win Olympic medals? That’s the aim of the program. And if you can do that, then those players actually put far more back into the game than anyone else because they become role models, they drive participation and grow the numbers of people playing the game.”

Proof of that assertion came with Adam Scott’s Masters triumph at Augusta in 2013.

There was undoubtedly a spike in rounds played that occurred after Scott’s victory.

Since then, rounds have grown year-on-year by about 4 per cent – bolstered by the stellar play of Jason Day and his ascension to the world No.1 ranking.

Modest level of funding for golf Success comes at a price. And arguably the most impressive aspect is how it’s been achieved with a relatively modest level of funding.

The Australian Sports Commission currently funds Golf Australia’s highperformance program to the tune of $1.010

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million a year. (It should be acknowledged the bulk of money that Golf Australia receives through affiliation fees from club golfers goes towards game development, administering the handicap system and underwriting the men’s and women’s Australian Open championships. But that’s a story for another issue.)

Despite having one of the highest participation rates among sports in this country, golf ranks 22nd in the

allocation of funding by the Australian Sports Commission. Golf is substantially underfunded by comparison with Olympic sports that barely get a mention apart from two weeks every four years.

In the four years leading up to the Rio Olympics, the Australian Sports Commission invested $376.7 million in high-performance sports. (This includes funding to Winter Olympics and non-Olympic sports.)

Some Olympic sports receive an inordinate amount of Federal Government funding despite small participation numbers.

Shooting, with 170,000 participants, receives an annual grant of $1.960 million. Diving receives $2.115 million and judo gets $667,800 despite each having just 50,000 participants.

Sports that are expected to win the most Olympic medals get the most funding from the Sports Commission.

High-performance swimming gets $8.415 million plus an additional $1.910 million for Paralympic Swimming to bring total government funding to $10.325 million. The justification is 10 medals in the pool at Rio (three gold, four silver, three bronze) – or more than a third of Australia’s 29-medal haul from the Games.

The most generously funded sport is sailing (546,400 participants), which received a whopping $13.5 million in the year leading up to the 2016 Olympics. It would surprise many to learn $1 million was spent on basing our december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 55

Teams Championship in 2014 was a great achievement but it disguised a lack of overall depth. The two stars of that campaign, Minjee Lee and Su Oh, have established themselves on the LPGA Tour within 18 months of turning professional. The challenge is to develop the next Minjee Lee who, like Karrie Webb, is a once-in-ageneration player.

“We feel like we’re doing a really good job with what we’ve got. But we know we’ve got gaps in the system,” concedes Pitt. “If we could address those, we feel like we could be a really strong player in women’s golf – to have a factory that is pumping out really good female players and a lot more depth than what we’ve had in the past. And then we can strengthen what we’re dong on the male side as well.”

“And it doesn’t need an extraordinarily large increase . . . our view is we’ve probably got a Rolls Royce system and we just need a bit more money to really make it flourish.”

Providing players with international experience - * $ 3 1 2 0 * ' 2 # . & # , ' 2 2Ż

sailors in Rio for 12 months prior to the Games.

Sailing picked up four medals (one gold, three silver) to match the medal haul at London in 2012 (three gold, one silver).

Cycling (645,000 participants) received an annual grant of $7.830 million for a sport that picked up two medals in Rio (one silver, one bronze). Rowing (239,400 participants) got $7.4 million for a return of three medals (one gold, two silver). Canoeing (175,000 participants) got $4.7 million for two bronze medals.

Australia sent 11 teams in ‘ball sports’ to Rio. The breakdown of funding to each sport’s governing body was: basketball ($4.780 million), beach volleyball ($2.460 million), hockey ($5.840 million), women’s football ($1.950 million), rugby sevens ($1.040 million) and water polo ($3.385 million).

Total funding for high-performance in these team sports was $19.455 million – an awful lot of taxpayer dollars to win just one medal (a gold in women’s rugby).

The core of $1.010 million to fund Australia’s high-performance golf program is spent paying coaches and service providers, and staging national camps. However, a significant portion of the budget is spent on providing players with international experience. This includes competing in the World Amateur Teams Championship and Four Nations Cup as well as individual tours to Europe and the US to play in tournaments such as the Porter Cup, Western Amateur and qualifying for the US Amateur.

“It’s been a key plank that you’ve got to

expose players to the best golfers in the world for their development. If all they do is play in Australia they compare themselves against a narrow field. They’ve got to see who else is out there and how good the rest of the world is,” Pitt says.

“From an Australian standpoint, that’s an expensive thing to do. If you talk to our friends in European golf, they’ve got so many opportunities to do that far more cheaply than we can.

“But for us it’s a major initiative and something you need to spend money on if you’re going to do it properly.”

Why we need more money In order to obtain more Federal Government funding, golf needs to mount a convincing argument about the benefits of an additional outlay. For starters, it could point out that golf hasn’t unleashed a dickhead like Nick Kyrgios onto the world stage.

“Our message to government is: You need to look at what sports can actually contribute to national outcomes,” says Pitt.

“And the thing about golf is we do create these amazing role models who are great ambassadors for Australia around the world that have a global media platform.

“They speak at press conferences week in, week out, they’re very articulate, they’re great representatives on and off the golf course. They can do powerful things in terms of building positive feelings about Australia, increasing tourists to Australia. They have a platform that a lot of other sports don’t.

“Golf is fortunate that our highperformance players at the pointy end actually have a really positive impact on grass-roots golf. Not many sports actually have that correlation.”

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Funding the development of elite amateurs is essential if we want to see Australians succeeding on the world stage.

The Sports Commission funding is allocated to 20-30 elite golfers, starting with amateurs in the National Squad and down the line to some state representatives. If there’s a criticism it’s that Golf Australia is not helping enough players reach their potential.

The obvious example is in women’s golf.

Victory in the women’s World Amateur 56

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

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FEAR THEBEARD With a phenomenal amateur golf record, and a quirky ponytail and beard combination to match, Aussie golf fans can get used to seeing CURTIS LUCK on their screens. By Evin Priest

C

URTIS Luck sits in yet another winning press conference.

This time, it’s at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club in Incheon, Korea. He’s just overcome a seven-shot deficit to clinch the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship from good friend and fellow Australian Brett Coletta by one.

The moment is bittersweet.

The 20-year-old has claimed the US Amateur Championship and Asia Pacific in the space of a few months. The winner of each normally receives an invitation to The Masters, but in this rare case that ticket to Augusta was not passed on to the Coletta as the runner-up, despite Luck being exempt already.

Questions from the media are tinged with awkwardness that another Aussie, Cameron Davis, and Coletta stumbled while their compatriot Luck stormed through.

Yet one question manages to lighten the air. It relates to the Perth native’s appearance – namely his long hair tied in a ponytail and a robust beard he is rather proud of.

“You have a lovely head of hair, mate. Do you shampoo that often?”

“Yes,” Luck laughs. “Very often.”

laidback surfer from the coastal Perth suburb of Cottesloe. But on that five-inch course between the ears, Luck is a tremendous competitor who relishes the intensity of Sunday golf rounds.

Take the US Amateur final against American Brad Dalke at the famed Oakland

Hills Country Club in August. All square at the halfway point of the 36-hole match, Dalke birdied the 19th to go 1 up. But on the next hole Luck crushes a drive, flushes his next shot to the par-5 second (his 20th) and makes the seven-metre eagle putt. He then embarks on the longest run of consecutive

The big thing to conquer is the world No.1 amateur ranking. It’s something I’ve always wanted to achieve and to do that before I turn professional would mean a lot.

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LEON HALIP / STRINGE

Dress For Success The moral of the story? Appearances aren’t everything, though the man himself puts substantial effort into grooming. His twitter profile reads, “Proud #fearthebeard and #fearthemane ambassador.”

Nevertheless, his exterior may imply he’s a

australiangolfdigest.com.au 59

IAIN GILLESPIE / THE WEST AUSTRALIAN

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holes won (eight) since the current match play format was adopted in 1973. The end result was 6&4 in Luck’s favour.

He travelled to Mexico the next month and contributed to Australia’s whopping 38-under par team victory at the World Amateur Teams Championship. Davis took out individual honours and Luck contributed rounds of 69-71-63-68 for a 15-under total.

The amateur world No.2 then headed to Korea and found himself seven back of 54hole leader Coletta beginning the final round of the Asia Pacific Amateur. Luck birdied the second, 11th, 12th and 15th and was playing the par-5 18th when Coletta chipped in for birdie to draw level on 17. Luck, playing in the penultimate group in front, put his second into a bunker but hit out to 15 feet and drained a “nerve-wracking� putt.

Luck remains modest when talking about 60

The US Amateur‌ it’s the pinnacle. That win meant everything. There aren’t a lot of Aussie names on the trophy, and I’m absolutelyblessed to be one of them. an emphatic bogey-free 67 on a windy day when Coletta carded a 75 and Davis a 77. “I guess you could say having the ticket to Augusta already was probably a bit of a relief for me,â€? recalls Luck.

But that’s not to say he didn’t want a friend at Augusta next year. “Unfortunately, that’s the sport we’re in,� says Luck. “Someone said, ‘Don’t you want a mate to go to Augusta with?’ And I thought it wouldn’t be that bad to have a fellow Aussie amateur there with me.�

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

A Good Year In a breakout year, Luck has earned starts at the 2017 Masters Tournament, US Open and the 146th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale for winning the US Amateur.

But just because he didn’t take the foot off the throttle in Korea – thus denying his Aussie mates a trip to Augusta – doesn’t mean he didn’t feel a deep sense of regret. “I did go through exactly what Brett’s going

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HONOUR ROLL “But I’m so competitive I couldn’t give up the chance to win an event like this.�

2016 Major Achievements US Amateur Champion Asia-Pacific Amateur Champion

There's No Place Like Home

through at the moment,� Luck says, referring to the 2015 Western Australia Open when he dropped four shots in his final five holes to hand victory to 39-year-old Daniel Fox. “It was tough after a pretty heartbreaking loss and it took me a few months to get over.

Fortunately you learn a lot more from your mistakes than you do from (winning), so I can say pretty confidently that Brett (Coletta) is going to come back bigger and better over the next year, and I hope he does.�

As Luck would have it, Coletta did bounce back – two weeks later. He won the Queensland Open in October, becoming the first amateur to achieve that feat since a guy called Stuart Appleby in 1991. “Brett’s a really close friend of mine, so I obviously understand about the opportunity of what he missed out on, so I will say that I feel a little guilty and a little bad.

Luck’s success hasn’t just been overseas. In May, redemption came in his home state when he atoned for last year’s WA Open collapse by claiming the 2016 event by two.

But his highlight is still claiming America’s most prestigious amateur tournament. Luck became just the third Aussie after Nick Flanagan (2003) and Walter Travis (1900, 1901 and 1903) to win the US Amateur. “I’ve had an amazing year,â€? says Luck. “These past few months have given me a lot of confidence and a good understanding of where I’m at. I have performed pretty well this year in big events. The US Amateur ‌ it’s the pinnacle and means everything. “The US Amateur is the championship I’ve looked up to and thought, that’s the one thing I want to have my name on. There aren’t a lot of Aussie names on the trophy, and I’m absolutely blessed to be one of them.â€?

Member of Australia's Eisenhower Trophy-Winning Team WA Open Champion T31st Victorian Open (PGA Tour of Australasia) 2015 Major Achievements T28 Uniqlo Australian Masters WA Amateur Medallist 2014 Major Achievements WA Amateur Champion WA Amateur Medallist Victorian Junior Masters Champion Australian Amateur Finalist NSW Strokeplay Champion US Junior Semi-Finalist Ross Herbert Team’s Trophy Australian Amateur Strokeplay

Luck Of The Draw Luck’s 2016 seems to get better and better.

PGA of Australia officials have confirmed Luck will be paired with world No.6 Adam Scott for the opening two rounds of the PGA Championship at RACV Royal Pines.

The star matchup on the Gold Coast will take place just two weeks after Luck tees it up at the 2016 Australian Open at Royal Sydney, alongside Scott and world No.4 Jordan Spieth.

Looking ahead to the remaining months of his amateur career, Luck has one goal left. “The big thing to conquer is the world No.1 on the amateur rankings. It’s something I’ve always wanted to achieve and to do that before I turn professional would mean a lot. “Hopefully I can achieve that.�

2013 Major Achievements Royal Perth Junior Open Champion 2012 Major Achievements WA Junior Amateur Champion Srixon Junior Champion 54-Hole Junior Champion 2011 Major Achievements WA Junior Amateur Champion Srixon Junior Champion Junior Tournament of Champions Winner

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 61

TRENDING For holiday makers looking to escape Sydney, the New South Wales Central Coast is becoming more and more appealing – on and off the course. By Evin Priest 62

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

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Gary Lisbon Photography

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 63

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TARTED to take notice of the New South Wales Central Coast?

There’s a reason for that. Actually, there are a few.

If you’re a homebuyer, it’s probably because Sydney doesn’t have a single freestanding house within 10 kilometres of the CBD for less than $1 million. Not one. Yet 90 minutes north, buying a home near one of the Central Coast’s stunning beaches for less than $500,000 is still possible.

If you’re a golfer, it’s likely due to the fact four courses in the AUSTRALIAN GOLF DIGEST Top 100 made signiďŹ cant moves in the 2016 ranking. After welcomed changes, Kooindah Waters was the biggest mover, climbing ďŹ ve places. It was closely followed by the seaside creation at Magenta Shores (three), as well as Newcastle and Pacific Dunes (one).

Combined with the eye-catching ocean views at Shelly Beach Golf Club – which happens to be surrounded by charming coastal villages like Toowoon Bay and Long Jetty – there’s never been a better time for golfers to try the Central Coast for their next escape. Need more reasons to revisit the region? Here are five you shouldn't look past.

1

NOW 10 YEARS OLD, MAGENTA SHORES IS MORE FORGIVING

Ross Watson’s design – built on coastal dunes in between Toukley and The Entrance – turned 10 in 2016. The turf and greens have matured well and there are some truly thrilling holes. But shortly after opening, Magenta Shores formed a reputation as being one of the most brutal courses in New South Wales. During the past couple of years, however, Magenta has scaled back areas 64

of the course to be more forgiving for all abilities. Some of the coastal scrub has been cut back on a few holes so errant balls can at least be found, several bunker complexes have been given a facelift and there is now a fifth set of tees (yellow) forming a short ladies course.

The changes have been widely applauded, and Magenta Shores climbed three places in this magazine’s Top 100 rankings accordingly. Now, the No.23 layout in Australia is more enjoyable for everyone.

And with its magnificent collection of short and medium-length par 4s and picturesque par 3s, golfers are now soaking up the stayand-play package in conjunction with the attached Pullman Resort.

2

SHELLY BEACH'S COASTAL VIEWS ARE STILL MAJESTIC

Shelly Beach Golf Club is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable rounds on the Central Coast. And only minutes from The Entrance, it’s also in an incredibly convenient location for holidaying families.

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

Shelly Beach’s appeal stems mainly from its spectacular ocean views, most of which are enjoyed from the front nine. Vistas of crashing waves form the background of the signature stretch of holes, starting at the fifth. This 361-metre par 4 runs parallel to the ocean and features an intimidating blind tee shot, while the sixth may be the most spectacular hole on the course. This medium length par-4 has magnificent coastal views to the left and a tee box perched just above the beach. The seventh is the third consecutive par 4 on the water’s edge but is narrower and shorter than its predecessors.

While the back nine is inland, large, established trees line most fairways and excitement is created by downhill tee shots and uphill approaches. The course returns to the coast at the par-3 18th – its 40m putting surface sitting peacefully behind pine trees and the beach.

Beautifully conditioned Kikuyu fairways are also a highlight at Shelly Beach, and a relatively light first cut of rough keeps all handicaps in the game. Post-round, be sure to grab a drink in the clubhouse or balcony overlooking the coastline and course.

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KOOINDAH WATERS – ENJOY THE BEST CONDITIONING ON THE COAST

Membership at Kooindah Waters is bucking the industry’s declining trend and growing year-on-year. Why? This championship course in Wyong, also designed by Watson, is in its best condition and has never been more accessible in its 10-year history.

Cart paths were installed on the final six holes, meaning carts can be driven on every hole year-round. New drainage has been established on four holes that previously had issues during heavy rain.

The result is Kooindah Waters boasts fairways that are a stunning shade of emerald green and rolled to almost tournament perfection. Perhaps the course’s strongest feature are its greens, arguably the truest putting surfaces on the Central Coast.

While Kooindah lacks the sand dunes and ocean views of Magenta, manufactured lakes, natural wetlands and some bold bunkers create excitement throughout the entire round. Ranked No.86 in the country, Kooindah boasts 18 different holes that wind through a woodlands setting for a highly enjoyable round.

The many water carries here will test your ballstriking – particularly island green par 3s at the second and 17th. The latter’s aqua carry starts an exciting finish, culminating with the tough 397-metre par-4 18th – ranked No.1 on the card. For golfers wanting to stay, there's also a Mercure resort with 84 rooms, an awardwinning restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools, spa, sauna, gymnasium, tennis courts and an Endota day spa.

4

become ideal for visiting families.

When you’re not relaxing on the picturesque, horseshoe-shaped Toowoon Bay Beach, a host of trendy cafes (try Coast89 or Two Birds Gallery) have become perfect breakfast and lunch spots for tourists, while neighbouring Long Jetty has an excellent range of coffee shops and boutique stores to peruse. On the water, some of the most popular activities around this area include snorkelling – or watching whales and dolphins as they migrate past the coastline.

5

If Kooindah Waters, Shelly Beach and Magenta Shores aren’t enough, the Central Coast spoils avid golfers with an ideal location on doorstep of the mid-north North Coast and Newcastle region.

Just over an hour’s drive up the coast from The Entrance will have you at two of Australia’s finest layouts – Newcastle Golf Club and Pacific Dunes. Both have improved noticeably during the past two years and each has climbed one spot in our Top 100. Newcastle Golf Club is continually ranked within the best 20 courses in the

SLEEPY SEASIDE VILLAGES HAVE COME INTO THEIR OWN

Because Toowoon Bay and Long Jetty are a few minutes away from the busy hub of The Entrance, these secluded villages have 66

TWO OF AUSTRALIA’S BEST COURSES ARE AN HOUR AWAY

country and this year improved to 19th place. There are some fantastic holes here, including the fifth, 10th and sidehill sixth, while the short par-3 seventh has been ranked inside the world’s best 18 holes outside of the US and British Isles.

Only 15 minutes away is Pacific Dunes, which in our most recent ranking was promoted to No.54 in Australia. Close to the holiday destinations of Port Stephens and Nelson Bay, this scenic 6,403m par-72 layout meanders its way around lakes and through tree-lined fairways to keep the golfer fascinated for 18 holes. Its collection of strategic dogleg par 4s is a standout.

Recently, Pacific Dunes gave travelling golfers another excuse to visit with the completion of its $3 million Country Club – The Greenhouse – in March.

The highly anticipated venue now offers a modern facility for all golfers to enjoy a fresh and seasonal breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, clubhouse bar, 200-seat function centre and pro shop.

After playing this immaculately conditioned course designed by James Wilcher, be sure to enjoy Pacific Dunes’ inside and outside dining – in one of the most environmentally sustainable buildings in the Port Stephens region.

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

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New Zealand Prime Minister JOHN KEY is not your average world leader. When he’s not addressing the most powerful men on the planet at a UN Security Council meeting, he’s addressing a golf ball at Golf Warehouse, where he’s determined to shave more strokes off his impressive 10-handicap. In an EXCLUSIVE sit-down interview with Australian Golf Digest editor-in-chief BRAD CLIFTON, Key unlocks the secrets to the rapid rise of New Zealand golf, why Lydia Ko could be his country’s greatest ever player, and how he used the fairways to forge a life-long friendship with President Obama.

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AGD: Are you surprised at just how powerful golf is as a tool for driving tourism, particularly in a country like New Zealand that offers so many other outdoor recreation activities?

JK: I’m not surprised at golf’s power to attract tourists given the quality of offerings here in New Zealand. It would be easy to underestimate how good the golf courses are here so I’m glad the world is really 70

President Obama loves golf, I love golf, so we got together one day and just did it. I think when he’s no longer President we will play a lot more together starting to understand just how good golf is in New Zealand. It is highly unlikely golfers will leave our shores disappointed with what they have experienced AGD: How and when did you catch the golf bug?

JK: I started playing when I was a kid. One of my teachers was what I would call a garden hacker at golf and invited us to come down to his club to hit a few balls. I had reasonable hand-eye co-ordination having also played squash and rugby in my junior days. But my real love for golf came later in life through my son, whose best friend was the pro at Royal Auckland. His father taught my son and when I became Prime Minister I thought it would be a cool father-and-son activity to do together. So we started going to the range at night and on weekends and the course for nine holes when I could get the time. I developed a real passion for the sport and as time has gone on, the guys at

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

The Golf Warehouse have taken me on as a bit of a national project. So far they’ve got me down to a 10-handicap and if I can just get a bit more time off work I’m sure I can continue to improve. But finding that time isn’t easy in my line of work.

AGD: What is it about the sport that appeals to you so much?

JK: I love the serenity of golf. I’m prone to going down to the range at 6pm at night and hitting a few balls. I think everyone in their life, no matter what their job is, needs a little bit of “me time�. Golf is my me-time. The thing with golf courses is they are generally built on beautiful stretches of land with great scenery. I find the golf course is a very peaceful place and if I don’t play at my best it doesn’t really matter. I’m relaxed and taking everything in around me.

AGD: How would you describe yourself as a golfer?

GETTYIMAGES: KENT NISHIMURA / STRINGER; HANNAH PETERS / STAFF; PHIL WALTER / STAFF

AUSTRALIAN GOLF DIGEST: OK, here’s your chance to rub it in early – what makes golf in New Zealand so special?

JOHN KEY: Well, firstly New Zealand has beautiful landscapes and pristine, clean fresh air. When people come to New Zealand they want to experience our spectacular landscapes and what better way to do that than on a golf course? Secondly, we have just been amazingly lucky to have some good people invest a lot of money in golf courses in New Zealand. As a result we’ve got some of the world’s best courses all in the one place. And thirdly, from our point of view, our strategy with tourism has always been what value we get, not just the volume of visitors. The middle-to-higher income bracket is the perfect profile we want to attract and that’s exactly what we find with golfers – they’re exactly who we are trying to attract to our beautiful country.

JK: Technically, reasonably solid [laughs].

My golf is definitely improving. I’m fairly consistent. I went to Wairakei recently for four days of golf and shot three 81s and an 80.

Realistically, to play to single figures, it’s all in the short game for me so that’s what I need to continue to work on when time permits.

AGD: Do you get hassled a lot when you’re out and about playing different courses?

JK: My local club all know me and leave me to do my thing. It depends where I go but there can be a bit of an army following me around. But the clubs are all fantastic and look after me when I have time to get around.

I love getting out and experiencing New Zealand’s courses first-hand. I still have so many to see but I’ll get there. I find the hospitality in Australia is equally as nice.

I’ve been lucky enough to play New South Wales, Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath. It’s great to be able to fit experiences like that around my overseas schedule.

AGD: Politics and golf – you seem to be living proof the two can co-exist?

JK: [laughs] Politics in a golf club is far more brutal than what we have to put up with in parliament – not for the faint-hearted. I’m loving my time in parliament but I don’t have any great ambitions to be a president of a golf club. When my time is up as Prime Minister I just want to get out and play golf.

build relationships. President Obama loves golf, I love golf, so we got together one day and just did it. I think when he’s no longer President we will play a lot more together. We both own places in Hawaii and he is keen to come to New Zealand as soon as he can. One of the reasons he hasn’t already is he could only come for 24 hours and he wants to enjoy a long golf holiday. But don’t worry, I’ve given him books on Kauri Cliffs and The Hills so I’ve teased him enough.

AGD: Who’s the most talented golfer among the world leaders?

JK: Obama actually thought I may have the best handicap out of all the world leaders but I think Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto is off a low number. And then of course there’s Kim Jong-un who claims to hit holes-in-one and be pretty handy every time he tees it up [laughs].

AGD: If current Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull played golf, do you think he would hit it left or right?

JK: [laughs] He’d have to hit it right, wouldn’t he?

AGD: Who else have you met through golf?

JK: I’ve been lucky enough to play with a lot of great players. I played with Rocco Mediate in the New Zealand Open and he’s a great guy. Can you believe he’s had 57 holes-in-one? Unbelievable. I played with Lydia Ko recently and, without telling me, she got her iPhone out and filmed my swing and secretly sent it off to (her coach) David Leadbetter, who fired back some swing tips.

Lydia is a great ambassador for New Zealand.

Not only is she a phenomenal athlete, she’s a great role model for New Zealanders with a terrific attitude towards golf and life. I played with former Australian Test cricket captain Ricky Ponting in the New Zealand Open. He’s got a phenomenal swing – a seriously talented athlete who still has that winning mentality.

AGD: Super-caddie Steve Williams – still New Zealand’s richest sportsman from

AGD: It’s no secret in golf circles you and President Obama have forged a special friendship through golf. Tell us about that.

JK: Well, they actually worked out that when I first played golf with Obama I had spent more time with the US President than all the previous New Zealand Prime Ministers combined. And that’s the thing with golf – it’s an amazing way to get to know people and

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december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 71

carrying a golf bag. How do you sum up his illustrious career?

JK: Steve Williams is my constituent – I represent him in parliament – so I better look after him [laughs]. It’s easy to dwell on the break-up with Tiger Woods but it was a great partnership for a long time. I think one day they will sit back and reflect more on what they achieved together. I was cheering for Adam Scott when he won the 2013 Masters.

It was great to see that ANZAC partnership combine for golf’s greatest prize. Steve’s a passionate Kiwi who clearly still loves what he does for a living and I think there’s more success to come.

AGD: What’s next for golf in New Zealand?

What are the keys to continuing the momentum?

JK: We need to continue to reach out to Asia – that’s the obvious market. It’s the engine room for growth in golf. I think it’s important we encourage golfers across Asia to come down here and play. We’ve got a huge number of fantastic courses, not just the half-dozen marquee courses you see in all the magazines.

Now it’s about tying them with people who want to come to our country and play them.

We’ve got a few events coming up which should help with that – the World Masters Games are coming to Auckland in 2017 which should see a lot of golfers arriving in our country. While the (British and Irish) Lions Rugby Tour will also arrive next year

and there’s nothing better than hitting the fairways in between watching games of rugby.

So we expect that to generate a bit of action.

AGD: Cycling, wine and adrenalin sports are major players for New Zealand tourism.

Where does golf sit in that list?

JK: When it comes to New Zealand tourism, golf is right up there. We are focussing on four pillars of growth to tourism. The first is the business-side of things – we are building convention centres and facilities to cater for this. The second is golf – and using the sport to promote New Zealand. The third focus for us is new markets, given all the different carriers that fly into our country now, and the fourth is the honeymooner market.

Golf just fits in where we want to go. Last year we welcomed 3.3 million tourists to our country. In four years that number will reach 4 million. By next year 1.5 million Aussies will come over here and do a range of activities, golf being one of them.

AGD: During your travels as Prime Minister, have you seen a country that does golf better than New Zealand?

JK: There are some magnificent countries with truly great courses, but we’re right up there in affordability and accessibility.

For the combination of value for money, accessibility and a temperate climate, New Zealand is a great option … not to mention you can have a fantastic pinot noir or sauvignon blanc after your round. And if you’re really lucky you can watch the All Blacks beat Australia in the Bledisloe Cup. You can never get tired of that.

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australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

GETTYIMAGES: POOL; HANNAH PETERS / STAFF; STUART FRANKLIN

AGD: If you could pick one moment that stands out in the history of New Zealand golf, what would it be?

JK: It’s probably the great Sir Bob Charles winning the 1963 British Open as a left-hander.

That stands out for me but Michael Campbell’s US Open triumph in 2005 was significant, too.

But history will probably tell us Lydia Ko will go on to become our greatest ever golfer. She’s still so young, has a lot left in the tank and can be amazingly dominant. If she goes on to win more Majors she will most certainly deserve it as she’s in the thick of the most competitive era ever for women’s golf, led by the rise of Korean female players. New Zealand is very multicultural and has a lot of young Asian players coming up through the junior ranks. So Lydia might not be the last Korean superstar to come out of New Zealand.

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Play Your Best

WHERE I GET MY GEAR I’m a regular at Golf Warehouse – New Zealand's No.1 golf retailer. My coach also happens to work there so I can get fitted and have lessons all in the one place – handy for someone who doesn’t get a lot of time to play.

NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER JOHN KEY Age: 55 Handicap: 10 Home club: Royal Auckland, Omaha Beach and Wairakei

FAIRWAY WOODS

LEAVING HIS MARK I use a Srixon Z-Star Tour Yellow ball and get it logoed “JK” and the number 38. Why? Because I’m the 38th Prime Minister of New Zealand.

I took inspiration from my golfing mate Barack Obama, who does the same thing, only he gets the Presidential Seal stamped on his.

XXIO Series 9 3-wood (15°, OPEYƐż ANEAO r nƄSKK@ Əjqƞ @ACNAAż OPEYƐż ANEAO r rƄSKK@ Əklƞ @ACNAAż OPEYƐŻ XXIO is the No.1 selling premium golf brand in New Zealand, so I can’t blame my clubs if I have an off day

IRONS XXIO Series 9 Ənż oż pż qż rż ƅ CN=LDEPAż OPEYƐ

HELP FROM THE TOP I played with Lydia Ko recently and, without me knowing, she filmed my swing with her phone and sent the footage to her coach David Leadbetter, who fired back some swing tips. I’ll take that.

All my irons are fitted with blue Iomic grips. I really like the look of them

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My putter has been cut down to 33 inches to allow my arms to hang better.

It has produced some noticeable results.

To add a personal touch, I’m getting the Silver Fern stamped on my new wedges

australiangolfdigest.com.au 73

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NEW CALEDONIA New Caledonia is one of the world’s most idyllic holiday spots, but it’s also making a name for itself as a golf destination, too. We look at two of the South Pacific Island’s best courses and how you can play them thanks to Qantas Golf Club ew Caledonia is one of the world’s most idyllic holiday spots, but it’s also making a name for itself as a golf destination, too.

Tina Golf Course is somewhat of a hidden gem for all who have played it and now the tropical paradise of New Caledonia has added a second world class layout to its list of attractions – the Sheraton Deva Golf Club.

A product of internationally renowned architects Dye Designs, the course opened in mid 2015 and is fast gaining a reputation as one of the area’s must-play layouts.

It is the company’s first project in Oceania and with some spectacular land to work with chief architect Cynthia Dye has created a course as unique as New Caledonia itself.

No more than a four-hour flight from Australia’s eastern seaboard and with great year-round weather, New Caledonia is an increasingly popular tourist destination for those in search of an island getaway for the family.

Known as the South Pacific destination with a French twist, there are few superlatives left to describe the beauty of New Caledonia.

Dazzling, stunning and breathtaking are

N

among the most common descriptors and all could equally apply to the country’s two most prominent golf courses.

At Tina Golf Course you’ll find two distinctive nines, the outward half traversing hilly terrain and presenting holes where changing elevation is one of the main challenges, while the homeward journey is a completely different test, the course winding its way around the stunning lagoon which New Caledonia is most famous for.

The course has played host to the PGA Tour of Australasia’s South Pacific Championship since 2011 and always draws a strong field, based in large part on the quality of the destination.

In a blog chronicling his four days at the 2016 tournament, touring professional Matt Guyatt had this to say about the golf course: “I think it is a beauty. It has a little bit of everything and when you reach that back-9 and get to play holes 12 through to 15, around and over the superb scenery of the Pacific Ocean, it's both breathtaking and exciting.

“The back-9 holds the key to your score, as the risk versus reward holes will close out a good round or shatter your dreams in a moment.”

High praise indeed, from an international

golfer who has played on some of the best courses in the UK, US and Japan.

While Tina is a known entity among the world’s golf connoisseurs, its newest cousin, the Sheraton Deva, is establishing itself as a sought-after golfing experience.

The course played host to the Amateur Golf World Cup event for club golfers earlier this year called and attracted rave reviews from players and media alike.

Sydney-based golf writer Michael Green attended the event and lauded Deva’s oneshot holes.

“The par-3s are fantastic, each offering their own unique challenge from the exposed 8th that becomes a beast in the wind, to the signature 11th hole that requires a solid tee shot to find a green nestled among many bunkers, with a water hazard on the right.”

The course is part of an internationally– acclaimed resort and is an ideal destination for those travelling with families and whose main priority may not be golf.

A range of activities are available to keep both adults and children entertained, with the poolside Jacuzzi a popular meeting spot for the whole family at the end of your round.

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS: • Return Economy Airfares with Qantas Airways & Air Caledonie • 2 Nights at Le Meridien Noumea • 4 Nights at Sheraton Deva Resort, Bourail** • One Golf Round at Tina Golf Course • Two Golf Rounds at Deva Golf Club • Shared Golf Cart per round • Gourmet Seafood Dinner Evening at Sheraton • Return Airport and Golf Course Transfers • Non-golfers enjoy a Spa package at Sheraton Deva Resort

** Qantas Golf Club Premium members enjoy an upgrade to a Beachfront Bungalow at Sheraton Deva plus 2 additional rounds of golf at no extra cost at Deva Golf Club.

From $2,375 per person. For further enquiries, please call 1300 742 973 or visit qantasgolfclub.com/newcaledonia DISCLAIMERS: ‘’Golf holiday packages are offered by Golfer Escapes Pty Ltd. ABN 36 093 86 756 and are subject to the Golfer Escapes terms and conditions, available at qantasgolfclub.com/holidaypackages-terms. Prices correct as at 31/10/2016 and are subject to change without notice. Offer is valid to travel until 30thJune 2017. ‘From prices’ are based on per person, payment by Debit Card on the lowest available rate.High season, tournament periods will incur surcharges. Costs are based on twin share accommodation. Single rooms will be surcharged. All packages are subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice. An additional 2% fee applies to credit card payments. Package cancellation and changes fees apply. Please check all prices, package inclusions, availability and other information with Golfer Escapes before booking.

GETTYIMAGES: ULLSTEIN BILD / CONTRIBUTOR

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MEET THE INNOVATORS & INFLUENCERS CHANGING THE GAME IN AUSTRALIA, WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT. BY BRAD CLIFTON ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO,

Albert Einstein [left] announced his general theory of relativity. Space-time bends and sags, and along this rumpled surface called the fabric of the universe, gravity sends spherical objects on crazy curved paths around black holes – not unlike the greens at Royal Melbourne. The Nobel Prize-winning physicist wasn’t much of a golfer, but his Princeton mates did once drag him to Springdale Golf Club for a lesson. Frustrated, Einstein threw four balls in the air and commanded his instructor to catch. Then, in that intimidating German accent, he implored, “Young man, when I throw you one ball, you catch it. However, when I throw you four balls, you catch nothing! So when you teach, make only one point at a time!�

What golf might look like 100 years from now is uncertain, but we do know it’s the people with the bravery to challenge

traditions who will shape it, much like Einstein himself. Over the coming pages are seven more individuals you’ve perhaps never heard of, but whose work could change the game you love beyond recognition. For the better, we think. – with Max Adler

ANDREW Ǔ Ͳ PGA of Australia

TOURNAMENT GOLF He was the man behind the world-first Surf Coast Knockout tournament that turned heads at The Sands Torquay back in 2011 with its final-day, matchplay format. Now PGA of Australia tournament director

Andrew Langford-Jones is playing a handson role in bringing the World Super 6 to Perth’s fairways in February. ‘Langers’, not short on sources of inspiration himself having met the likes of Nelson Mandela, Princess Diana and december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 77

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What does a dress code really achieve? Not much, besides telling that person he or she can’t relate to golf.

A collared shirt doesn’t make someone a human being a

Jo o dan through golf, is a key e o the PGA of Australia’s newlyo m d “Innovation Team�, led by PGA chief commercial officer f u n Ayles and with a clear mission to e te the game. n elements from the Surf Coast k t Ayles says his team has lobbied oduce the World Super 6 Perth event featuring 54 holes of –a tr k ay before the final 24 players battle t ov verr a dramatic final-day, six-hole u for the cash booty.

We trr led the Surf Coast Knockout d ess t ally what we did is take some em ts from that event and create different we hope will appeal to a w er e a ience and a younger demographic, w e same time respecting the t o s of the game,� Ayles says. g o at Lake Karrinyup Country u February 16-19, the World Super wi be co -sanctioned by, and has the full the European Tour. b g cut will fall after 36 holes before hen further reduced to the tope e 2 f 24 g 54 holes. Those remaining e wi then earn their places in ’s six-hole shootout with any tied tc s being decided on a purpose-built k nockout hole’. r has played an influential role in hellpin p n u ntroduce both tournaments but o o work on the World Super 6 should s e t ibuted to the team we have put t g h re,� says Ayles. “We really want tournament golf in Australia. We like to think one day we could l a n exciting one-day golf event s to the whole family, much like h e y20 cricket boom has shown us. mc dent we'll introduce more exciting deas as th eople like Andrew in our team.�

Í´

PGA Tou ur Professional

After being bullied at school for A wearing golf attire, Australian PGA professional Jack Wilson d decided he was going to make a stand once he made it on tour.

H s mi m ssion: to change the archaic look of prof siona l golf and make the sport hip and cool, an nd ultimately more appealing 78

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

to a younger demographic. So this year the Victorian threw away his razor, added a splash of colour to his wardrobe and has been actively involved in introducing new people to the sport via shopping centre and school visits. Oh, and he’s also become the only tour pro we can think of who’s sporting dreadlocks. “Hopefully kids see me this summer and think, Hey, golf looks fun. I might give it a go,� says Wilson. “Too many people flick on their TVs and don’t understand golf. The sport’s not attractive and there are very few entertainers that capture the full imagination of the general public. Characters like Beef Johnston with his bushy beard, and Rickie Fowler with his bright, orange shirts and high-top shoes ... these are guys who understand the importance of making golf more appealing to a wider demographic and it’s something I will continue to champion in Australia.�

d

Founders of Pro Golf IQ

After playing golf socially for many years, Gold Coasters Pete Nicholson and Chris Steffe had seen literally dozens of golfers destroy a good round with head explosions after playing a bad shot. “Tantrums, cursing and club throwing ... I saw the lot,� recalls Nicholson.

It got the pair thinking – while the world’s top players pay thousands of dollars each month for expert sport psychologists

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AUSTRALIAN GOLF DIGEST readers can enjoy a great deal on the main Pro Golf IQ program for just $97 (RRP $219) or $194 ($495) for the full offering of sessions.

To learn more go to progolfiq.com/birdie

Í´

Founder of PNP Golf

to ensure they are at the peak of their game, there was next to nothing in the marketplace for amateurs to learn these same mental skills for dealing with pressure. “Based on science and research from prestige universities, we discovered huge differences in the brain activity of professionals compared to that of amateurs in the crucial moments before playing a shot,� says Steffe. “During their pre-shot routine, studies showed that pros and amateurs use their left brain to analyse the target, hazards, swing speed, trajectory and direction. The top golfers then bring in the creative right hemisphere for rhythm, timing and co-ordination ... in essence achieving a quiet mind and perfect mental stability. Unfortunately us mere mortals get stuck in the left-brain and overthink the task ahead. This negative mind-chatter can prevent us from getting into the ‘zone’.�

To coach amateurs to think the same way as the pros with a 'balanced brain', the pair created an audio system using techniques exclusive to the IQ programs called Interhemispheric Synchronic Mediation (ISM).

Simple to use with headphones in the comfort of your own home, Pro Golf IQ teaches progressive relaxation and guided visualisation to ensure the mind is in optimum condition for every shot. “The world’s greatest players say that 80 per cent of the game is between the ears but how much time does the average golfer devote to mastering the mental game?� says Nicholson.

So does it work? The scorecards say yes. “Our greatest measurement of success are the dozens of emails we receive each month with golfers delighted in their improvement, especially since the release of the powerful supplementary modules Putting IQ, Driving IQ and Pitching IQ,� says Nicholson. “We have high handicappers slashing five to seven strokes off their game and those in the lower bracket witnessing greater focus and concentration in the crucial scoring zone from 70 metres out.�

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australiangolfdigest.com.au | d

ember

It’s the classic entrepreneurial story: a guy who couldn’t get what he wanted so he just grabbed his tools and built it himself.

That’s the story of PNP Golf – a short-game equipment company and the brainchild of retired Canberra businessman Paul Donaghue.

After pulling stumps on a productive career in the nation’s capital, where he founded Magnet Mart, Donaghue finally had the time to pursue his passion for golf, spending countless hours trying to improve his game. “I quickly realised that focussing on my long game, as most manufacturers wanted me to do, was not really helping my score,� he says. “As most of my strokes are within 100 yards of the green, my short-game had far more potential for improvement.�

What started with a humble putter turned into something much greater for the 80-year-old. “I tackled the one flaw that

kept me from making putts, lining up the putter face on the intended line,� Donaghue recalls. “I needed a club that would help me strike my putts on target. The Point N Putt putter is my answer. I no longer need to square the putter. By design I just point and putt my way around the course and am now holing more putts than ever before.�

Donaghue’s next challenge was finding a way to get out of bunkers and deep rough with more consistency. “I spent many hours on the course thinking about how to reduce the resistance of the sand and grass at impact so I’d get more power out of my swing,� he says. “The RAKE Wedge dual bounce rail design does just that. It combs through sand and deep rough like a hot knife through butter, instantly giving me more control and incredible accuracy.�

After years of research and development, PNP Golf specialty short-game clubs are now available to professional and amateur golfers alike and are individually assembled by a master fitter, hand-crafted to ensure the highest quality on every product shipped.

Check out the full range at pnpgolf.com

d

Owners of Curlewis Golf Club

k j Drive into the car park at Curlewis Golf Club and you won’t find any spaces designated for the general manager, president or club captain. And that’s just one example of how this progressive Bellarine Peninsula club is breaking away from golf’s outdated traditions.

Since local tourism pioneers David and Lyndsay Sharp purchased Curlewis in 2015 – which was literally days away from insolvency – they’ve breathed life into a layout boasting enormous potential. The duo applied the midas touch that has seen their Jack Rabbit and Leura Park Estate vineyards become tourism hotspots.

Curlewis is creating waves around the greater Geelong area with forward thinking and inviting new policies, notably the removal of the dress code in the clubhouse. This is in addition to bi-weekly group lessons for women and free junior clinics on Friday afternoons. “What does a dress code really achieve?� says general manager Brenden Caligari. “Not much, besides telling that person he or she can’t relate to golf. You have to dress smart at Curlewis, but a collared shirt doesn’t make someone a human being.�

Curlewis is now the fastest growing club in the country with more than 180 new members signing up since the takeover.

There's your future.

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Introducing the all new GAP wedge

Truely game changin we es The n RAKE ew wedg GAP en in sto ow ck

Kathy G-Jensen 2014 USA PGA Teacher of the Year

“I am so amazed at how easy it is to execute what normally would be a diicult shot out of the rough, and how efortlessly I can get the ball out of a bunker.

The GAP wedge is a signiicant addition to improving your game.”

COMMON TO LOB, SAND & GAP RAKES

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For the ultimate feel and feedback

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Provides crisp contact from tight and hard pan lies

Get unparalleled performance from bunkers, thick or wet rough, tight lies and hardpan – these innovative RAKE wedges are game changers!

PnP Golf’s patented ‘Dual Bounce Rail’ design and advanced ‘On-set Leading Edge’ glides through sand and combs through rough like no other wedge – with more excelleration and less efort.

What is the diference between PnP Rake wedges and other lob, sand or gap wedges?

The main diference: We have broken-up the one (1) large, blunt bounce, found on other wedges, into two (2) bounces; ie. a rail bounce and a secondary‘between rail’sole bounce.

Why does it work so well?

Sand and rough: The sole on the Lob, Sand and Gap wedge has a path between the two bounces that form rails. These rails provide an avenue for the underlying sand and turf to pass through; reducing the co-eicient of friction through impact. You will also have more control, as the rails assist to stabilise the club-head’s intended direction through the sand and rough.

Tight lie and hardpan: The rail design breaks through the surface tension of the underlying surface, in efect lowering the club’s leading edge at impact to deliver better contact and light.

The ‘Dual Bounce Rail’ design is exclusive to PnP RAKE wedges.

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+ ",#11ƫ During the US PGA Championships at Baltusrol, a bloke comes out of the crowd, takes off his shirt and says “Will you sign my chest?” I’d heard tales of women wanting their chests signed before, but men? I resisted. He says, “Come on, I’ve got a $100 bet riding on it.” I demanded confirmation. He disappears for a bit, comes back with his mate – a girl – who confirms she’s on the other end of the bet. So I sign his boobs. Why not? At the WGC-Bridgestone, a girl wanted her skirt signed, hiked it up her thigh so I could reach it. A policeman is there, and he says, “Mr Johnston, you don’t have to sign that.” I signed anyway. I’m in heaven, man. I’ll pretty much sign anything. ͷͷͷ

+7 & ," 5 1 %#22',% 12'$$ from writing “Andrew Johnston” so often. So when a little kid handed me a hat I just wrote “Beef,” with a smiley face next to it. The kid jumped up and down. The next kid I signed for, same thing. I was on to something. Even geezers, they’d see the smiley face and wave it in the air and laugh. There’s something about that smiley face, when people see it, nine times out of 10 they duplicate it on their faces. ͷͷͷ

+7 ,'!), +# : I was 12 years old and walking down

the 11th hole at North Middlesex Golf Club, in England, which is still my home club today. A friend, Mark Kinsella, was walking up the 18th and, seeing me from a distance, shouted, “Look at you. It looks like you’ve got a steak on your head. A bit of meat. You’ve got a beehead.” By the time I got in, everyone was calling me Beehead, which was quickly shortened to Beef. ͷͷͷ

#12 ,'!), +# , other than mine: Big Gravy, for Colt Knost. I wonder what he had to do to earn that. I love my beard and have had it most of my adult life, but the day is coming when it might have to go. My girlfriend, Louise, is constantly alerting me to bits of food that have been left behind, tangled in there. I’m paranoid about eating anything that leaves crumbs for fear of the remnants coming back to haunt me. We’re headed to a Wing Fest next week, and I’m worried my face might be completely orange by the time we leave. Fearing these things is no way to live your life. ͷͷͷ

-32 "0',)',% -,# ,'%&2 , I decided to get a tattoo. At the

tattoo parlour, I wrote out “Beef Head” for the artist, and next thing you know, the words are on my shoulder. Later I considered having it removed, but a friend said, “Are you crazy? Leave it there, always. It’s who you are, man.”

I’m quite fine with showing it off. Want to take a look? ͷͷͷ

'ǂ4# %-2 2- *# 0, 2- . !# +71#*$Ż Early in the US PGA Championship week, The Wall Street Journal took me on a tour of the best hamburger places in New York. Asked me to rate them. The first burger, at The Corner Bistro, I devoured. The second, at a place called The Spotted Pig, I ate all of it, too. These were big burgers, and now I’m full. The third and last burger was at Minetta Tavern. I ate half and was so stuffed I could hardly move. I really needed to lie down. Then my manager, Shaun Reddin, reminds me that we’re now headed to Arby’s, where I need to eat again because I’d just signed an endorsement deal with them. We get there, and they put this enormous brisket sandwich in front of me. I looked at that thing like I was 5 down with six to play. I ate half of it and got that far only because it was delicious. I didn’t sleep that night. ͷͷͷ

', ż ' 5 1 ,#5 .0- and playing locally. I was living with my mum, wasn’t getting better or making much money. One day I saw an advert for a job in London. It wasn’t clear in the ad what the job was, something to do december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 83

‘THE KINDS OF GOLFERS I LIKE TO HANG OUT WITH ARE ONES WHO CAN SPEND A NIGHT AT THE PUB CONVERSING ALMOST ENTIRELY IN LINES FROM “CADDYSHACK.” ’ with consulting. I was so broke and desperate I went for the interview anyway. While I was drinking tea at a Starbucks that afternoon, they called me back and invited me to work a week “for training and experience.” At that moment, a feeling in my heart told me to keep doing what I loved, which was play golf. I told the nice lady, “Thank you, no,” and hung up. Life turns on little things, doesn’t it? If I’d stayed on the phone one more minute, my pro career would have ended right there. ͷͷͷ

2&#0#ǂ1 4'"#- out there of me making

a hole-in-one at the 2015 BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth and going slightly bonkers, running around the tee, chest-bumping a friend in the gallery and generally behaving like a game-show contestant. I was more ecstatic than most pros you see winning a hole-in-one prize, for two reasons. One, the ace won me a BMW M4, valued at well over $125,000. That’s no ordinary car. Second, a month earlier, buying a good car would have meant making a down payment and financing a loan. ͷͷͷ

5&'*# 1'%&21##',% ', +-1!-5 during the 2011 Russian Challenge Cup, I needed to visit a toilet. The nearest available place was inside a McDonald’s restaurant. To go inside, you have to go through a metal detector. One of the neat things about Europe and the US, I think, is that you don’t need to go through security to get a hamburger.

84

like walk onto an elevator. I think that’s brilliant. Two, the roller coasters are the best in the world. Three, you have drivethru banking machines, which I’d never seen until I visited here. During the US PGA Championsip I drove through and withdrew $100 just for the thrill of it.

room. I picked it up, swiped it and put it to my ear, just in time to hear someone yell, “Andrew!” At that instant, I woke up to hear Louise yelling my name, trying to wake me up. How does that happen, the climax of a long dream coinciding with someone shouting my name in real life? Weird.

ͷͷͷ

ͷͷͷ

2- 31# 2&# "0'4#Ư2&03 banking machines

"30 ,ż 1-32& $0'! ż Ż Me, my mate Jason Mitchell and another guy are hanging out at this gorgeous beach. I head into the ocean for a swim and I'm five metres from shore when a strong riptide starts to pull me out to sea. Luckily I catch a wave and scramble back to land, but Jason lets the current take him well out into the ocean. Ten minutes go by, and I wave to Jason to make sure he’s OK. He waves back. All is well. After another 10 minutes, we wave to each other again. But our other friend swims out to make sure Jason is safe. Now they’re both out there, and after 30 minutes, it’s clear they’re having trouble overcoming the riptide even though they’re swimming sideways like you’re supposed to do. I’m helpless to do anything. After 45 minutes in the ocean, they make it in. Jason is so exhausted he can’t stand and can barely talk. But the second his legs hit the sand and I knew he was safe, something about the situation, maybe it was seeing him humbled after being way overconfident, struck me as hilarious. I started laughing and couldn’t stop, which Jason didn’t exactly appreciate. Even today, when Jason and I are at the pub together, I laugh hysterically about it. Jason just frowns and stares at his pint of beer.

more often, I need to play just a little better.

My game is pretty good, actually. I drive it pretty long and very straight (I hit 26 of 28 fairways at a European Tour event a while back) and my iron play is solid, especially when I stand taller at address like my coach, Alan Thompson, tells me to do. My short game is good. But my putting is a little dodgy.

I’m working like mad at it, and when it kicks in, I think I’ll really go places. ͷͷͷ

$2#0 /3 *'$7',% for the Open Championship

in 2011, I was so obsessed I began having dreams about it. Make that nightmares. I’d played the course, Royal St George’s, many times, and in one dream I was on the first tee and couldn’t hit the ball. One whiff after another, in front of a huge gallery. In another, I’m in a bunker and couldn’t get out. The people are watching, and I’m embarrassed and helpless. When the Open came around and I got to St George’s, the first thing I did was go practise my sand shots. My sand game ended up being fine, but the rest, not so much.

I missed the cut by 10.

ͷͷͷ

ͷͷͷ

$#5 /3'!) '+.0#11'-,1 about America.

(312 2&# -2&#0 ,'%&2 , I dreamed I found

One, people greet you when you do things

another player’s mobile phone in the locker

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

ͷͷͷ

2&#0# ' 5 1 !-,2#,"',% at this year’s

Open Championship on Saturday at Troon – fighting for third place, anyway – when I chip in for birdie at the 13th hole. The crowd was very much into supporting me by then, and they’re cheering wildly. I’m celebrating, just deliriously happy, when I look into the gallery. There I see my mum, and she’s crying, overwhelmed by it all. They were tears of joy and pride, obviously. I briefly thought of everything she and my dad had done to get me here. We Johnstons are ordinary people – she’s still a school lunch lady, and my dad, who passed away a few years ago, was a bus driver and worked at a timber company. My parents and older brother and sister always supported me. Anyway, when I saw my mum crying, I had to look away, otherwise I would have begun bawling, too. I had golf to play. ͷͷͷ

2&#, 2&#0#ǂ1 +7 ,'#!# , Summer. She’s

5, and like my sister, is confident and has a big voice. She was in the gallery shouting, “Beef to the rescue!” like I was a superhero, which at the moment, maybe I was. Children are magic. For all the good times I’ve had, nothing beats sitting with Summer, reading Goldilocks and the Three Bears, adopting all the voices, being a kid myself. ͷͷͷ

#12 24 1&-51 : “Family Guy,” “The

Simpsons” and “South Park.” They’re all animated and brilliant because they’re able to bypass political correctness. The world has gone mad that way, hasn’t it?

The way teachers are required now to say “chalkboard” instead of “blackboard,” things like that. When I watch “Family Guy” depict the English as having smashed-up teeth and stuffy accents, I die laughing because there’s truth in it. It’s a bit sad that to laugh at ourselves, we have to watch cartoons to do it. ͷͷͷ

' 5 1 -0, ', , and Tiger started his dominance in 1997, so you can imagine the impact he had on every kid of my generation.

But I had another hero: Chi Chi Rodriguez.

Seeing film of him doing his sword dance, entertaining people and being so comfortable in his skin, I thought he was amazing. So was

anything. Fifth: The Really Drunk Guy. You start sentences with, “I’m being completely serious.”

This can be bad news. The sixth stage, the last and worst, is The Journey Home. Here you’re tired, have advanced feelings of regret and just want to get to your bed.

played with Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler, Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson or a lot of other top players. I’ve played in Europe mostly and in fact have played in America only a couple of times as a pro. I haven’t gotten the big pairings yet, but I’m hoping that will change.

ͷͷͷ

ͷͷͷ

2&# 0#,2 * &-31# we used at the US PGA

Championship had a basketball court.

Basketball isn’t the most popular sport in England, and I didn’t play much of it growing up, but anything having to do with a ball, I’m pretty good. I had the ball near midcourt when a guy I didn’t know said, “One shot for $100, and I’ll give you 5-to-1 odds.” I accepted, heaved the ball up, and swish, nothing but net. He paid and said, “Want the same bet?”

You’ve got to give a guy a chance to get some of his money back, so I took another shot.

This time I missed, but I can always say I’ve made $400 playing basketball. ͷͷͷ

'$ ' 5#0# "0Ż $0 ,)#,12#', building the perfect golfer, I would give him the hands of Seve Ballesteros. I would attach them to the arms of Ernie Els. I’d implant Tiger’s waist and core, and probably his brain, too. Lastly I would give him the ’nads of Jack Nicklaus.

My creation would win everything.

'$ 7-3ǂ4# 1304'4#" The Journey Home, there’s still the next morning to deal with. To cure a hangover, first open the windows and get some fresh air. Drink something fizzy and sugary. Then eat. Cold pizza or a bacon sandwich are ideal, but if they aren’t available, hammer the cupboards for food, any food.

Then, two paracetamol and plenty of water. ͷͷͷ

'$ 7-3 1) +7 %'0*$0'#," about me, she’ll

tell you straightaway that I leave a trail in the flat. Socks, especially. She might mention that I tend to leave an unfinished cup of tea or a bit of food about just before we leave town, and how it’s all moldy when we return.

Don’t press her, though: I wouldn’t want her mentioning the bad parts. ͷͷͷ

'ǂ+ 4#07 %--" 2 0#12',% , and it doesn’t seem to matter how much I sleep. I prefer 10 hours per night (I can go 12 hours, easy) but I can get by on as little as two. ͷͷͷ

ͷͷͷ

&-5 *-,% 5'** ##$+ ,' * 12Ƭ During

2&# )',"1 -$ %-*$#01 I like to hang out with

the US PGA Championship, I texted a good friend back in England. I asked him, how did all this insanity happen? He replied with a smiling, laughing emoticon, as if to say, who knows? All I know is, I’m up for all of it. Love me, and I promise to love you back.

are ones who can spend a night at the pub conversing almost entirely in lines from “Caddyshack.” Or better yet, dialogue from the best movie ever, “Step Brothers.” Many a time I’ve said to a friend in my best Will Ferrell voice, “I remember when I had my first beer.” When I was a teenager, a friend and I got mugged by gypsies. The nastiest of the three said to me, “Give us your wallet and cellphone.” I handed them over. The leader looked at the phone, which was 10 years old, and muttered, “This is garbage.” And my wallet was empty. He then did something criminals rarely do: He handed them back to me. They didn’t even bother hassling my friend, who looked every bit as broke as I was.

With a look that said, You guys are even more pathetic than we are, they walked away. ͷͷͷ

‘THE WORLD HAS GONE MAD . . . IT’S A BIT SAD THAT TO LAUGH AT OURSELVES, WE HAVE TO WATCH CARTOONS.’ the way he hit incredible shots with a swing that was all his own. It always surprises people when I tell them that Chi Chi is one of the people in golf I’d most like to meet. ͷͷͷ

'2 *1- 130.0'1#1 .#-.*# to learn that although I was playing in the group directly ahead of Phil and Henrik at Troon, I haven’t yet played with either of them. Nor have I

2&# 12 %#1 -$ "0',)',% are as follows. First

there is Relaxed and Social – think, normal people filling the bar at 6pm. Second stage is Let’s Have One More. This is where the quality of your mates is established and you want more of a good time. Third comes Where Are We Going Next? That’s when the mysteries of the night begin calling. Fourth up: Hammered. It’s a fullon party, even when you aren’t really celebrating december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 85

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Message from the Minister for Tourism and Major Events ELCOME to the 2016 Australian PGA Championships, an event which attracts some of the world’s best players to Queensland and draws spectators from around Australia and the world.

I am delighted to welcome local hero and World Number 6 Adam Scott in what is a stellar list of Australian and international players.

The Palaszczuk Government proudly supports this event through Tourism and Events Queensland’s It’s Live! in Queensland major events calendar.

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Since 2000, Queensland has proudly hosted the Championship.

This year the tournament is expected to deliver more than 30,000 visitors to the State, providing an important boost to the Queensland economy.

Welcome to all who are visiting from around Australia and the world who are here to enjoy our world-class tournament.

I hope you take the time to experience all the Gold Coast and Queensland have to offer.

The Hon Kate Jones MP MINISTER FOR TOURISM AND MAJOR EVENTS

Greetings, Golf Lovers!

ELCOME to City of Gold Coast for some of the best golf you can see anywhere in the world this year.

And it will be played on the superlative Graham Marshdesigned Championship Course at RACV Royal Pines Resort.

As always, just who will emerge triumphant is a complete mystery. Form is rarely an accurate guide to success and anyone in the field has a good chance to claim the global recognition that accompanies the Joe Kirkwood Cup. Most eyes will be on Nathan Holman who has had a stellar year, honing his skills with full status on the European Tour so he will enjoy a lot of support.

But can anyone rule out Adam Scott, Marc Leishman or a host of other outstanding players who will be vying for victory?

I love the history of this championship, which dates right back to 1905. That much tradition adds a lot of lustre and it is shared by the Australian Professional Golfers Association which also enjoys a century-old pedigree as the second oldest PGA in the world. Their absolute

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professionalism makes this a great event.

City of Gold Coast is proud to be a sponsor of the Championship as golf is an important attraction for our tourism industry. Nationally, golf generates around $3 billion in economic activity a year and employs some 23,000 people. With more than a million Aussies a year playing the game, its future is assured.

The central location of RACV Royal Pines means visitors are close to all of the other outstanding attractions that draw around 13 million visitors a year to the Gold Coast.

Whatever makes your heart beat faster, it is probably available here.

So, please explore the area and make sure you have a great time. You can take home swags of memories that keep you smiling for the rest of the year.

Have fun!

Tom Tate MAYOR, CITY OF GOLD COAST

OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 91

Shower above

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Welcome to the Australian PGA Championship N behalf of the PGA of Australia, ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and the incredible field assembled here this week I would like to thank you for your support of the Australian PGA Championship.

A festival of golf, the Australian PGA Championship is about more than just the pursuit of the Joe Kirkwood Cup. The week features the Cobra Puma Orange Crush Kids Day where we will welcome hundreds of kids to participate in a day designed just for them. As well as getting the chance to give golf a go they will get to meet some of the stars of the tournament.

Golf’s night of night’s, the Greg Norman

O

Medal Dinner, will provide the perfect launch pad for the celebration of our great game. We look forward to honouring Australia’s most successful player, our various players of the year but also the PGA Professionals who work at a grassroots level to successfully grow golf.

The Summer Soiree will continue the festivities on Wednesday where ladies will sit high above the course sipping champagne at RACV Royal Pines Resort’s beautifully appointed Videre Restaurant.

When the Australian PGA Championship tees off on Thursday the entertainment kicks up a notch with live music every afternoon in the village, food trucks to feed the family and free entry after 5pm on Thursday and Friday and 3.30pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Shannon Noll will be the star of the stage on Saturday night as he performs free for all golf fans.

But the Soniq Million Dollar Hole is where the Australian PGA Championship really comes alive. As players aim to ace their way to a big pay day sports fans can revel in the celebratory atmosphere of the Lexus Marquee.

While there is plenty of action happening outside of the ropes, this energetic golf tournament would not be possible without the stars of the show; our talented PGA Professionals. This year we welcome back Nathan Holman as our Defending Champion, hometown hero and World Number 6 Adam Scott, World Number 49 Marc Leishman and Olympians Scott Hend and Marcus Fraser.

With four of the top-5 Australians in the field this is one of the strongest Aussie

contingents assembled to contest the Joe Kirkwood Cup since we relocated to the Gold Coast. However that does not assure an Aussie victory, with a stellar line up of European Tour players headed down under we are anticipating an exciting conclusion to the 2016 Australian PGA Championship on Sunday afternoon.

To all the talented Tour Professionals here this week welcome and good luck, we hope you enjoy competing in the Australian PGA Championship as much as we enjoy watching you.

I would also like to acknowledge all of our partners; particularly Tourism and Events Queensland, the City of Gold Coast and RACV it is through their support that we are able to produce a world-class golf tournament.

This festival of golf is testament to the tireless work of the Australian PGA Championship team, I thank you for your dedication and passion.

To the volunteers without you we could not host a tournament of this quality. Thank you for your time, I hope you find the experience thrilling and fulfilling.

Finally to you the fans; indulge in everything the Australian PGA Championship has to offer, enjoy the festival atmosphere, marvel at the abilities of our Tour Professionals but most of all enjoy!

Best wishes, Brian Thorburn CEO, PGA OF AUSTRALIA

A Message from RACV ACV is delighted to once again be the host venue for the 2016 Australian PGA Championship at RACV Royal Pines Resort, the home of championship golf in Queensland.

The new design of the Championship Course has had 12 months to settle in, and now offers professional golfers a spectacular challenge, with real rewards for those prepared to play confident, assertive golf from the back tees. The new design ensures not only a challenging course for professional golfers but a treat for the gallery, with spectators enjoying vastly improved viewing positions on all 18 holes.

For regular golfers, the course design, while challenging, is very playable and enjoyable. All feedback received over the past year has positively endorsed the Graham Marsh-designed redevelopment of the 18-hole Championship Course. After the tournament, I encourage you to join the many members and guests who have already played a round on what is arguably

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one of Australia’s best resort courses.

RACV owns and operates five quality golf courses in Victoria and Queensland and we invite you to experience them all. RACV is also a major sponsor of the ALPG Players Championship, one of the premier women’s golf tournaments, to be played at RACV Royal Pines Resort in February 2017.

In addition to the investment in golf, RACV’s ongoing commitment to upgrading the resort for our members and guests is evident in the new water park that further enhances the resort facilities to provide an unparalleled experience for families, couples or conference delegates.

We wish all players a very successful tournament and encourage them, their families, spectators, members and guests to make full use of the many facilities and services available at RACV Royal Pines Resort.

Neil Taylor, RACV Managing Director & CEO

OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 93

A MILLION REASONS TO

GET EXCITED HE PGA of Australia may have found the answer to growing golf tournaments worldwide – and it's using its marquee tournament to test the theory this year.

The Australian PGA Championship won’t just be a golf tournament. It will be something much more, explains PGA of Australia chief commercial officer, Stephen Ayles. “It will be a festival – an entire week of fun activities … with a little bit of worldclass golf thrown in,” he says. “It will be the culmination of a lot of things, including the Summer Soiree, Cobra Puma Golf Orange Crush Kids Day, live entertainment throughout the week and, of course, our night of nights – the Greg Norman Medal.”

Ayles said it was crucial golf took extra steps to make its events more appealing to a wider audience and that there was no tournament more equipped to deliver such an initiative than the Gold Coast-based Australian PGA Championship.

“The Australian PGA Championship has a rich history of being the players’ favourite tournament of the year and it’s because it’s always had that festival vibe,” says Ayles. “Players want to have fun with their families leading into their Christmas break and signing off the season with a fun week of golf in an iconic holiday destination is an attractive proposition. What we’re doing this year is taking that village feeling made famous at Coolum and taking it to a whole new level at RACV Royal Pines Resort. We will have something for everyone.”

For the true golf fanatics, Adam Scott’s return home is a major coup. Scott, who won the Joe Kirkwood Cup in 2013, said he was

T

looking forward to teeing it up in his home state for the first time since 2014.

“I always love coming back to Australia and competing,” he says. “The support I receive from Aussie golf fans makes for a special week, especially when I am playing in my hometown, the Gold Coast.”

A long-time highlight on the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, Scott [right] is also looking forward to experiencing the newlook Australian PGA Championship now that it’s co-sanctioned by the European Tour.

“The European Tour is where I first started my professional career so it’s great to see a co-sanctioning with tournaments in Australia,” added Scott.

Delighted to welcome home the world No.6 is PGA of Australia Chief Executive Officer Brian Thorburn.

“Adam coming home and playing on the Gold Coast was a key focus for us this year when organising the Australian PGA Championship,” says Thorburn.

“While the tournament is now cosanctioned by the European Tour and has attracted some quality Europeans to our Australia, it is important to us that our home grown talent also tees it up.”

But hardcore golf fans aren’t the only winners this year. The par-3 16th at RACV Royal Pines Resort will be the most eagerly anticipated golf hole for any spectator. While the Soniq Million Dollar Hole gives every player at the Australian PGA Championship the opportunity to win $500,000, it may also deliver $500,000 in cash and prizes for a fan on Sunday, December 4.

The PGA of Australia, Tourism and Events Queensland and Soniq ran a competition

94 OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

in the lead-up the Australian PGA Championship for a fan to be aligned with each professional in the field. If their pro aces the million-dollar hole the fan will receive half the value in cash and prizes.

“This is the second year that we are offering a million-dollar prize for a hole-in-one on the 16th at RACV Royal Pines Resort,” says Thorburn. “Last year the 16th became the centre of attention for golf fans with everyone flocking to the green to see if a player could pull off the lucrative feat.”

Even Scott is excited about the initiative.

“The Million Dollar Hole certainly has my attention,” says Scott. “I can’t wait to have a crack at acing the 16th. It’s going to be an exciting week on the Gold Coast.”

For those spectators wanting something extra special during Australian PGA Championship week, there are a range of hospitality packages on offer, including access to the Kirkwood Club, the Lexus Marquee on the Million Dollar hole or a seat in the Champion Club grandstand on the 18th green [see course map for directions].

#AUSPGA

GETTY IMAGES: BRADLEY KANARIS / STRINGER

You don’t have to be a golf fan to enjoy this year’s Australian PGA Championship at RACV Royal Pines Resort.

#AUSPGA

OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 95

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PLAYER PROFILES

AGE: 36 FROM: Adelaide, South Australia TOUR: US PGA Tour WORLD RANKING: 6 2015/16 FORM: Wins: 2 Top 10s: 9, Top 25s: 14 Cuts Made: 20/20 HIS STORY: Although it’s been two years since Adam Scott lost the Australian PGA Championship in a playoff to fellow Aussie Greg Chalmers, you can bet the world No.6 is eager to atone for not emerging from that seven-hole marathon victorious – especially now the layout has been redesigned to reward supreme ballstrikers. A champion of this event in 2013, Scott has the experience to get the job done on a new-look RACV Royal Pines.

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HAROLD VARNER III

AGE: 26 FROM: Ohio, USA TOUR: US PGA Tour WORLD RANKING: 176 2015/16 FORM: Wins: 0, Top 10s: 4, Top 25s: 7 Cuts Made: 18/28

HIS STORY: A year after Harold Varner III lost the playoff at this very tournament, the American returns to the Gold Coast looking to atone for the heartbreaking defeat to Aussie Nathan Holman. That’s not to say Varner didn’t take anything away from it – the 26-year-old went on to have an excellent US PGA Tour season with 18 cuts made from 28 events, highlighted by four top 10s and seven top 25s. Proved very popular with the Aussie crowd and should contend again.

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GETTY IMAGES: JOHANNES EISELE; DAVID CANNON; LEON HALIP / STRINGER; ANDREW REDINGTON

ADAM SCOTT

CURTIS LUCK

AGE: 20 FROM: Melbourne, Victoria AMATEUR WORLD RANKING: 2

HIS STORY: All eyes will be on Curtis Luck at RACV Royal Pines as Gold Coast fans watch the US Amateur and Asia-Pacific Amateur champion play with Adam Scott for the first two rounds of the Australian PGA Championship. Luck created world headlines in August when he became the first Australian to win the US Amateur since Nick Flanagan in 2003. But it wasn’t just the victory that garnered attention – it was because the Perth native demolished his opponent 6 & 4 after being allsquare at the 18-hole point. Luck won the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship in October, just weeks after helping the Australian team to an emphatic Eisenhower Trophy victory in September.

He also took out the WA Open in May. The 20-year-old, whose win secured him entry to the 2017 Masters, US Open and Open Championship, is playing as good as anyone in the field.

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MARCUS FRASER

AGE: 38 FROM: Corowa, NSW TOUR: European Tour WORLD RANKING:103 2015/16 FORM: Wins: 1 Top 10s: 2, Top 25s: 4 Cuts made: 12/18 HIS STORY: Marcus Fraser started his season with a European Tour victory at the Maybank Malaysia Championship and it essentially peaked with a stellar performance at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Fraser shot a course-record 62 to lead the first round and finished in a credible fifth place. After a consistent year in Europe where he made 12 cuts from 18 tournaments, Fraser will tee it up at the Australian PGA Championship to much fanfare as an Olympic hero.

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MARC LEISHMAN

SCOTT HEND

AGE: 33 FROM: Warrnambool, Victoria TOUR: US PGA Tour WORLD RANKING: 49 2015/16 FORM: Wins: 0 Top 10s: 2, Top 25s: 8 Cuts made: 20/25

AGE: 43 FROM: Townsville, Queensland TOUR: European and Asian Tour WORLD RANKING: 64 2015/16 FORM: Wins: 2 Top 10s: 6, Top 25s: 8 Cuts made: 17/25

HIS STORY: Marc Leishman is coming off a consistent season in which he made 20 cuts from 25 events. Though the boy from Warrnambool didn’t find that extra gear to grab his second US PGA Tour title, Leishman did finish in the top 25 in eight of those 20 weekends he progressed to. Due for a win on home soil and RACV Royal Pines might provide the perfect set-up for him to do just that. Great ballstriker, just needs a good week with the putter.

HIS STORY: Scott Hend was rewarded for being a prolific winner in Asia and Europe with a start in the Australian men’s golf team at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Hend is coming off a fantastic season, carding a victory on each tour, both in Thailand. The 43-year-old bomber also carded eight top-25s and six top-10s on the European Tour. Hend’s length and ability to go low when he’s on could see him high on the leaderboard at RACV Royal Pines Resort.

100 OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

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GETTY IMAGES: HARRY HOW; STUART FRANKLIN

PLAYER PROFILES

SEE AUSTRALIA’S BEST LIVE EVENTS IN AUSTRALIA’S BEST DESTINATIONS

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PLAYER PROFILES DANNY LEE

AGE: 33 FROM: Melbourne, Victoria TOUR: Japan and ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia WORLD RANKING: 408 2015/16 FORM: Wins: 1 Top 10s: 4, Top 25s: 7

AGE: 26 FROM: Rotorua, New Zealand TOUR: US PGA Tour WORLD RANKING: 57 2015/16 FORM: Wins: 0 Top 10s: 2, Top 25s: 6 Cuts Made: 21/28

HIS STORY: Thanks to a breakout year – which included a thrilling victory at the ISPS Handa New Zealand Open in Queenstown – Matt Griffin is in the running to take out the PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit. The Trans-Tasman clash sees a challenger in New Zealand’s Michael Hendry who, after a series of top-10 finishes in 2016, may come down the stretch at the Australian PGA Championship battling Griffin for the honour.

HIS STORY: Danny Lee didn’t find that elusive second US

102 OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

PGA Tour victory in 2016, the year after he broke through for his maiden win on the main circuit. But the New Zealander’s campaign was still successful, making the cut in 21 events with two top 10s along the way. Tends to go on hot streaks and when they're hot, they're red-hot. Could the Gold Coast be the venue for Lee’s second European Tour win?

A genuine chance this week.

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GETTY IMAGES: HANNAH PETERS; EMMANUEL DUNAND

MATT GRIFFIN

A FESTIVAL OF GOLF If you can’t find something fun for the whole family this week, you’re not looking hard enough COBRA PUMA ORANGE CRUSH KIDS DAY Kick off the Australian PGA Championship with a jampacked day of fun at the Cobra Puma Orange Crush Kids Day. Join in the activities at RACV Royal Pines on Tuesday 29th November from 9am-4pm, and meet golf stars and your favourite Nickelodeon characters from Sea World including

Dora, Boots, SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star.

Some of the activities on offer include player autograph signing sessions, MyGolf hitting bays and golf lessons, face painting, jumping castle, prizes, petting zoo, music, games and roving entertainment.

Pre-register below to attend

and receive a VIP showbag including a Cobra Puma cap!

The Kids Day is a FREE event for children aged 16 and under. Registrations for schools to organise group visits are now open, please contact Matt Street from the PGA on (03) 8320 1911 or email mstreet@pga.org.au to confirm your attendance.

LADIES’ SUMMER SOIREE Whether you’re a golfer or non-golfer, the ladies Summer Soirée will kick-start the Australian PGA Championship week in style.

Make the most of an afternoon to socialise, relax and enjoy an engaging and interactive event not to be missed, including an exclusive Cobra Puma Golf fashion parade, delicious delicacies, wine, cocktails, champagne, soft drinks, tea and coffee. There are also gorgeous

gift bags and a complimentary general admission “Any One Day” ticket to the golf tournament.

WHERE: RACV Royal Pines Resort Videre Restaurant – Level 21 WHEN: Wednesday 30th November from 3pm to 5pm COST: $95 (Inc GST) per person. For more information and ticket sales, please contact Georgia Tyas at gtyas@pga.org.au

LEXUS MARQUEE In a multi-year agreement, Lexus will hold the naming rights to the Lexus Marquee, a public corporate hospitality area located at the Soniq Million Dollar Hole on the par-3 16th.

A brilliant corporate experience that won’t cost the public and arm and a leg, the Lexus Marquee package

includes access to the course and the Lexus Marquee on the Soniq Million Dollar Hole on any one day of the tournament, cocktail food served throughout the day, with more substantial items during lunch, premium six-hour beverage service including beer, wine and soft drink from 11am-5pm, music

and entertainment from the best vantage point on-course, wide-screen televisions with full broadcast coverage and a drink voucher for the Village Bar after 5:30pm.

For full hospitality packages available at this year’s tournament, contact Pat Woods on 0477 445 221 or email pwoods@pga.org.au

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MUSIC TOYOUREARS THE 2016 tournament will feature an array of entertainment on and off the course.

Whilst Adam Scott will spearhead a field of world-class golfers impressing on the greens, fans will have the opportunity to take time out and enjoy a range of musical acts within the hospitality areas as well as the Tournament Village. Headlined by Shannon Noll on Saturday night, the Tournament Village will feature live music every evening from 5pm.

SHANNON NOLL Shannon Noll’s everyman appeal lies in his honesty. The country boy from Condobolin, NSW remains unaffected by success and committed to his hard-working rock ethic. He has released five top-10 albums, including two number-one multi-platinum sellers. Noll’s first ten singles all peaked inside the ARIA top-10, including three that reached No.1.

Noll’s debut single “What About Me” was certified 4× platinum and became the highest selling single of 2004 in Australia.

WHEN: Saturday 3 December, 5:30pm-7:30pm WHERE: Tournament Village TRACE DUO Trace Duo are a totally live, acoustic covers act performing popular tunes from the top-40 charts with a twist. Featuring a female vocalist and acoustic guitarist, hearing them perform is the ‘real deal’ … quality music coming from talented musicians. Enjoy a wide selection of styles covered with a unique interpretation on popular tunes you’d hear on the radio every day from artists such as Maroon 5, Doobie Brothers, Rihanna and Kings of Leon.

WHEN: Tuesday 29 November, 5:30pm-6:30pm and 8pm-9pm WHERE: Greg Norman Medal Dinner REBECCA KNEEN DUO Introducing the incredible sounds of Queensland’s superb musical act, The Rebecca Kneen Duo. The team consists of vocalist Rebecca Kneen, and guitar aficionado, Nick Trovas. After more than five years performing worldwide at hundreds of corporate functions, this band provides a polished, professional sound of your favourite hit songs.

WHEN: Friday 2 December, 5pm-7pm WHERE: Tournament Village

known for DJing lifestyle, high fashion and big corporate events. She is at the forefront of the Australian music scene with mix-up of House, Pop, and of course, The Classics.

Celebrated for her long-standing work in the entertainment industry internationally and locally, Kate regularly headlines gigs as a member of the duo Vamp. Some of Kate’s recent events include opening for Sneaky Sound System and Ruby Rose as well as the TV Week Logies in 2015 and 2016.

WHEN: Thursday 1 December, 11:30am-5pm; Friday 2 December, 11:30am-5pm; Saturday 3 December, 11:30am-5pm WHERE: Soniq Million Dollar Hole (Lexus Marquee) WHEN: Sunday 4 December, 4pm-6:30pm WHERE: Tournament Village CHRIS HUTCHISON Since 2005, Chris Hutchison has been a fulltime professional musician. He currently performs live weekly shows at venues such as Jupiter’s Casino and Surfers Paradise’s iconic Q1-Sky Bar. When Chris is performing solo he loves to create a full band sound. Using a loop station Chris takes “solo” to the next level using multiple effects pedals to looping bass lines, funky sounds and drumming patterns played on the guitar to create a beat. Chris is always 100 per cent original when covering songs making it very entertaining to watch, playing a mix of those old classic pub songs to today’s modern radio hits. Chris always recreates them in his own unique way.

WHEN: Wednesday 30 November, 3:00pm-5pm WHERE: Summer Soiree WHEN: Thursday 1 December-Sunday 4 December WHERE: Daily in the Kirkwood Club Marquee from 12.30pm

Shannon Noll

Kate Greer

Rebecca Kneen Duo

KATE GREER Kate Greer is an Australian vocalist and DJ

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OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 105

GETTY IMAGES: VCG / CONTRIBUTOR; SAM GREENWOOD

WORLD-BEATING TRIO VIE FOR PRESTIGIOUS GREG NORMAN MEDAL

THREE of Australia’s best golfers have made strong cases for the highest honour in Australian golf – but only one will wear the Greg Norman Medal at a gala awards night during the Australian PGA Championship.

The second annual Greg Norman Medal will be presented to the best male or female professional golfer on the world stage in 2016 on Tuesday, November 29.

The winner will be determined based on annual success on the Australian and International stage including all Professional tours such as the LPGA, ALPG and Ladies European Tour, and the (men's) US PGA Tour (America or Australasia), the European Tour and other Tours around the world, including those in Asia.

With three victories on the US PGA Tour – including an emphatic win at The Players Championship – world No.1 Jason Day headlines a superstar trio including Adam Scott and LPGA Tour star Minjee Lee. Scott – the world No.6 – started his 2016 US PGA Tour season in spectacular fashion,

claiming back-to-back wins at the Honda Classic and World Golf ChampionshipsCadillac Championship. The 36-year-old was incredibly consistent in 2016, making the cut in 20 of the events he entered.

Minjee Lee put her hand up to be the first female winner of the Medal, carding her third tour victory at the Blue Bay LPGA in China. This followed a runner-up finish at the Manulife LPGA Classic in September and her second LPGA Tour win in April.

The PGA of Australia is excited to announce a new award this year, the Immortal medal for Life Members of the PGA. Similar to the concept in rugby league, the Immortal medal will create an elite pantheon of greats for young Touring Pros to aspire to.

In addition to these two standout accolades, the Greg Norman Medal will honour the PGA Tour of Australasia and ALPG Player of the Year, as well as the National Trainee of the Year, National Club Professional of the Year and National Teaching Professional of the Year.

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'MINJEE LEE PUT HER HAND UP TO BE THE FIRST FEMALE WINNER OF THE MEDAL, CARDING HER THIRD TOUR VICTORY AT THE BLUE BAY LPGA IN CHINA AND HER SECOND LPGA TOUR WIN IN APRIL ' #AUSPGA

BIG 5

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TOUR

PLAY THE TOP 5 COURSES IN AUSTRALIA OVER 5 INCREDIBLE DAYS For the very first time, in conjunction with leading golf tour operator Exclusive Sports, you can play Australia’s Top 5 golf courses in 5 days as ranked by the country’s leading golf publication – Australian Golf Digest. Hosted by Australian Golf Digest TV personality Annabel Rolley, you will play each of the Top 5 courses from the 2016 Australian Golf Digest Top 100 Courses Ranking.

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Hosted by Annabel Rolley AUSTRALIAN

EUROPEAN

VACATION Defending Australian PGA champion Nathan Holman has been enjoying the ride of his life since lifting the Joe Kirkwood Cup. BY TONY WEBECK

ATHAN Holman’s life postAustralian PGA Championship victory sounds like a dream.

The phone rings on Monday evening, and the voice on the other line asks can the Melbournian make it to a beautiful golf course in Switzerland by Thursday morning.

Most would consider this heaven, but for a semi-nomadic touring pro, it isn’t the most ideal situation. Not that he’s complaining.

Quite the contrary – Holman considers the co-sanctioning agreement between the PGA of Australia and the European Tour a blessing. Before the 25-year-old's playoff victory at Royal Pines last year, Holman was looking at a 2016 schedule split between the Asian Tour and conditional status in Europe.

“On occasions last year, I got phone calls on Monday night – and I’m back in Melbourne – saying I’ve got a start in Switzerland on the Thursday morning and asking whether I can get there,” recalls Holman, who had 10 starts in European- sanctioned events in 2015.

"You get there on a Wednesday, have a walk around the golf course and try to compete and you’re already on the back foot,” he adds.

“But you’ve been given the opportunity so you have to take it and try and play your best.

That’s the way it works with invites. To have full status gives you a sense of belonging and you get recognised by some of the better players on the main tours and it gives you another sense of belonging – they kind of know who you are.”

From a talented teen at Woodlands Golf Club in Melbourne to full-time member of the European Tour, the reigning Australian PGA champion knew the transition into

GETTY IMAGES: BRADLEY KANARIS / STRINGER; STUART FRANKLIN

N

overseas-based tour player was going to be the most formative years of his playing career – but it wasn’t going to be easy.

His dramatic playoff victory at RACV Royal Pines Resort last December secured an immediate future on the European Tour courtesy of a two-year exemption, which meant jetting off to events he’d only dreamed about – and watched on TV. Suddenly, Holman was making debut appearances in World Golf Championship events and the British Open, courtesy of topping the PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit.

108 OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

STEPPING STONE The aspect of Holman’s game that proved crucial at RACV Royal Pines 12 months ago has been spending a year playing in Majors, World Golf Championships and on the US PGA Tour.

Graham Marsh’s revamped layout has placed a much greater premium on shot selection and course management. The ferocious finishing hole gave Holman belief that his bogey-bogey finish in regulation would not prove to be fatal.

“I just didn’t see anybody birdieing the 18th, the way it was playing. It was such a

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OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 109

A GOLDEN INVITATION

GETTY IMAGES: MOHD RASFAN / STRINGER; AREP KULAL/ASIAN TOUR / CONTRIBUTOR

It has been customary in recent years for the winner of the PGA Tour of Australasia’s Order of Merit to receive an invitation from Jack Nicklaus to participate in the US PGA Tour’s Memorial tournament at Muirfield Village.

Customary, not automatic. In terms of an invitation for a promising young golfer, it’s the equivalent of winning a golden ticket to visit Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. As he traversed between Asia, Europe and his hometown of Melbourne, Holman waited for word on whether an invitation would be forthcoming this year. Until one day, just as you would expect from a man of Nicklaus’ standing, a letter arrived at his home in Melbourne.

“It was nice to get that rather than opening up bills,” jokes Holman. “I hadn’t heard anything for quite a while so I thought it had fallen through.

“To finally get a letter to say you’re exempt into the Memorial was a great feeling.

“It’s probably one of the better events I’ve ever played in. The way that Jack runs the tournament is amazing. It’s a great atmosphere and you get to see him around the entire week.”

Holman shot 71-72 at Muirfield Village to miss the cut by a shot. But it served as another important step in his progression into the ranks of the world’s elite golfers.

His goal is to be playing full-time in the US within the next two years.

'HOLMAN SAYS PLAYING IN THE BIGGER EVENTS HAD IMPROVED HIS STRATEGIC PLAY AND OVERALL COURSE MANAGEMENT.' tough hole,” says Holman, who had five top35 finishes on the European Tour this year.

“Everyone who plays that course now has to use their mind a lot. You have to be strategic.

You’ve got to work out whether you want to take it right of a bunker, left of a bunker, stay short, go over it, so it really tests your mental game a lot more than it used to.

“You still have to execute your shots but That’s the main difference to the golf course we play now instead of the old version.”

Holman says playing in the bigger events had improved his strategic play and overall course management.

“Obviously you still chip away at your technique and develop your game but having that experience of winning matures you as a golfer," he says. "It trains your mind to adapt to those situations.

"It will be a nice feeling to return as the defending champion.”

110 OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

#AUSPGA

MY GOLF BALL HAS TO DO EVERYTHING.

AND IT DOES. IT HAS TO BE LONG OFF THE TEE. JORDAN SPIETH

IT HAS TO STOP ON A DIME. I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO FLIGHT IT.

RICKIE FOWLER

IT HAS TO HAVE SOFT FEEL.

JAKE FINN AMATEUR

ADAM SCOTT

IT HAS TO BE DURABLE.

H

D ITS L E N

LYNN CASSADY AMATEUR AZAHARA MUNOZ

IT HAS TO BE CONSISTENT. MICHAEL WATSON AMATEUR

©2016 Acushnet Company.

IND..

PLAYS: DRIVER M1 FAIRWAY M2 WEDGES TP EF PUTTER SPIDER LTD RED BALL TOUR PREFERRED X

PLAYS: DRIVER M1 FAIRWAY M2 WEDGES TP EF PUTTER SPIDER LTD BLACK BALL TOUR PREFERRED X

P A M E S R U CO

• Park opposite Metricon Stadium for $10 per day, and catch the free shuttle to the tournament

ME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 114 OFFICIAL PROGRAMME

#AUSPGA

• Gates open to public with FREE ENTRY as follows:

RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT SCORECARD HOLE

THU-FRI: 5PM SAT-SUN: 3:30PM

YARDS

METRES

PAR

1

436

399

4

2

196

179

3

3

611

559

5

4

451

412

4

5

185

169

3

6

379

347

4

7

442

404

4

8

336

307

4

9

541

495

5

Out

3577

3271

36

10

417

381

4

11

464

424

4

12

561

513

5

13

449

411

4

14

229

209

3

15

565

517

5

16

188

172

3

17

448

410

4

18

466

426

4

In

3787

3463

36

Out

3577

3271

36

Total

7364

6734

72

FEELING HUNGRY? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH A RANGE OF FOOD TRUCKS IN THE TOURNAMENT VILLAGE

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OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PG PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 115

GARYPLAYER 81 • SOUTH AFRICA • 1957 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPION • NINE-TIME MAJOR WINNER

The 1957 Australian PGA Champion on lifting the Kirkwood Cup, his massive payday on the Gold Coast, and the one thing he still desperately wants to achieve Down Under.

Interviewed by Evin Priest CAN’T believe it’s been nearly 60 years since I won the 1957 Australian PGA Championship. That victory gave me confidence to know I could win any tournament in Australia as well as all over the world. To me, being a world champion was so important. It’s what I set out to accomplish as a professional golfer. It would have been much easier to move my family to the United States and only play on the US PGA Tour, but that’s not what I set out to accomplish when I turned professional at age 17. As a young man, I was expected to attend university. But I told my father traveling the world playing golf would give me a better education than any formal school. I’m glad he trusted my judgement.

I

▶▶▶ THE Australian PGA Championship has more than 100 years of history. No wonder I feel a great sense of accomplishment reflecting on my 1957 title, along with all my past victories in Australia and the men whom I share a spot on the trophy with. So many great players have come from Down Under. No doubt Australia is one of the finest golfing countries in the world, and it continues to produce talented players like Jason Day and Adam Scott. I believe golf’s popularity in Australia will continue to have a great impact on golf’s popularity throughout the world.

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▶▶▶ IT’S great to see the Australian PGA Championship has found a new home in such a beautiful part of the country to live, work and play. One of my fondest memories from competing in Australia is winning the Gold Coast Classic in 1981. I received a cheque for $100,000 – big prizemoney in those days! ▶▶▶ MY FIRST visit to Australia was for the Ampol Tournament in 1956. It was perhaps one of the most significant victories of my life. After I won, I had earned and saved up enough money to marry the love of my life, Vivienne.

We are celebrating our 60th wedding anniversary next year. That’s one of the main reasons Australia will always hold a special

116 OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

place in my heart. Not to mention the people, the sandbelt golf courses are gorgeous, and just the sheer beauty of the entire country is breathtaking – very similar to South Africa.

▶▶▶ AUSTRALIA is an absolutely spectacular golfing destination with an abundance of so many fantastic courses throughout the country – most certainly amongst the best in the world.

My only regret is that I have still not designed a golf course in the land Down Under yet, but it’s certainly a place we hope to one day leave our mark with an environmentally sensitive and playable design. Who knows, maybe I might design a future host course of the Australian PGA Championship. Now wouldn’t that be special?

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OFFICIAL PROGRAMME OF 2016 AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 117

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HONOUR ROLL

GETTY IMAGES: ADRIAN MURRELL

Past champions of the Australian PGA Championship Year

Winner

Score

1980

Sam Torrance

282

2015

Nathan Holman

288

1979

Stewart Ginn

284

2014

Greg Chalmers

277

1978

Hale Irwin

278

2013

Adam Scott

270

1977

Mike Cahill

278

2012

Daniel Popovic

272

1976

E W (Bill) Dunk

281

2011

Greg Chalmers *

276

1975

Vic Bennetts

287

2010

Peter Senior *

276

1974

E W (Bill) Dunk

279

2009

Robert Allenby

270

1973

Randall Vines

2&1

2008

Geoff Ogilvy

274

1972

Randall Vines

290

2007

Peter Lonard

268

1971

E W (Bill) Dunk

273

2006

Nick O’Hern *

266

1970

Bruce Devlin

275

2005

Robert Allenby

270

1969

Bruce Devlin

277

2004

Peter Lonard

270

1968

Kel Nagle

276

2003

Peter Senior

271

1967

Peter Thomson

282

2002

Peter Lonard & Jarrod Moseley (Joint Winners)

271

2001

Robert Allenby

273

1964

Colin Johnston

275

1963

Colin Johnston

3&2

1966

E W (Bill) Dunk

279

1965

Kel Nagle

276

1981 19401945

Championship not played World War II

1939

Ted Naismith

7&5

1938

Eric Cremin

2&1

1937

Eric Cremin

4&2

1936

William Clifford

4&2

1935

Sam Richardson

2&1

1934

Lou Kelly

2&1

1933

Sam Richardson

9&7

1932

Fergus McMahon

7&6

1931

John Donald Spence

2&1

1930

Jock Robertson

2&1

1929

Rufus Stewart

8&7

Unknown results Frank Eyre

2000

Robert Allenby

275

1999

Greg Turner

278

1962

E W (Bill) Dunk

8&7

1998

David Howell

275

19271928

1961

Alan Murray

2&1

1997

Andrew Coltart

285

1926

1960

John Sullivan

2&1

1996

Phil Tataurangi

279

1925

Tom Howard

3&1

1959

Kel Nagle

5&3

1924

Tom Howard

3&2

Fred Popplewell

2&1 1 up

6&5

1995

Not played

1958

Kel Nagle

6&5

1994

Andrew Coltart

281

1923

1957

Gary Player

2 up

1993

Ian Baker-Finch *

275

1922

Charles Campbell

1956

Les Wilson

4&2

1921

Arthur Le Fevre - Unknown

1955

Horrace Henry Alfred (Ossie) Pickworth

8&7

1920

Unknown results Championship not played World War I

1992

Craig Parry

269

1991

Wayne Grady

271

1990

Brett Ogle

273

1954

Kel Nagle

1 up

19141919

1989

Peter Senior

274

1953

1 up

1913

Carnegie Clark - Unknown

1988

Wayne Grady *

275

Horrace Henry Alfred (Ossie) Pickworth

284

William C. Holder

2&1

Unknown results

Roger Mackay

1952

1912

1987

275

6&5

154

Mike Harwood

Norman von Nida

Charles Campbell

1986

1951

1911

6&5

150

273

Norman von Nida

Dan Soutar

Greg Norman

1950

1910

1985

1909

Carnegie Clark - Unknown

1984

Greg Norman

277

1983

Bob Shearer

288

1982

Graham Marsh

282

1981

Seve Ballesteros

282

1949

Kel Nagle

7&5

1948

Norman von Nida

2&1

1947

Horrace Henry Alfred (Ossie) Pickworth

2&1

1946

Norman von Nida

1 up

1908

Carnegie Clark

4&3

1907

Dan Soutar

4&3

1906

Dan Soutar

5&3

1905

Dan Soutar

4&3 * Denotes won in playoff

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GOLF ON THE The return of the Australian PGA Championship to the Gold Coast has given a holiday favourite even greater pulling power. By Tony Webeck december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 125

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WAS once among the influx of tourists who ventured regularly to the sandy expanse of the Gold Coast in search of great golf. Then three years ago, the family and I moved here.

Now, instead of trying to work out how I can wedge more than a dozen top-quality courses into a week of golf I‘m instead teased by a daily drive past The Glades, Lakelands, Palm Meadows, Palmer Gold Coast (formerly Robina Woods) and Palmer Colonial.

The magnetism of the Pines and Palms courses at Sanctuary Cove remains as strong as ever, courtesy of the latter's recent re-design. Next door, Links Hope Island remains one of the absolute premium golf experiences you can enjoy in southeast Queensland.

But an oft-forgotten resort course that has undergone an extreme makeover during the past three years has not only reenergised RACV Royal Pines Resort but also given Gold Coast golf exposure throughout Australia and to a potential worldwide audience of more than 500 million people.

The golf courses are amazing – and they're all within 40 minutes of great accommodation. The Gold Coast offers the whole holiday package for everyone.

The buzz is back RACV Royal Pines general manager David Hogben can't definitively say whether it's Graham Marsh's re-design or staging the Australian PGA Championship that has drawn golfers en masse. But local tour operators insist it is again on the 'must-play' list of keen golfers.

“The golf course at Royal Pines has been out of the loop for quite a while,” says Emma Beauclerc of golfOz Tours, which has been operating on the Gold Coast for 13 years.

126

“But the refurbishment for the PGA Championship has breathed new life into the experience. The feedback about RACV Royal Pines from our clients has been really positive. Golfers love playing the new Royal Pines course, even though it's a lot more difficult on the scorecard. But it certainly has converted many golfers who weren't fans previously.”

There’s no denying that playing a course you watch the pros attack brings a certain

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

extra gravitas. All you really want to achieve is to par – nay, birdie – any of the 18 exams.

Your other chance to brush shoulders with Aussie golf royalty is at the acclaimed Links Hope Island – one of the legendary Peter Thomson's finest pieces of golf design in collaboration with design partners Mike Wolveridge and Ross Perrett.

“Hope Island is easily the most favoured course up here,” says Emma Beauclerc. “If I had to impress someone coming to town,

NEW RELEASES COMING SOON Frequenters to the Gold Coast’s golfing landscape may think they’ve played it all.

But there are some new releases heading this way, including a blockbuster opening slated for 2017.

If you follow popular golf profiles on social media, you’ll know that Topgolf – particularly its new Las Vegas facility – has become the way to mix business and pleasure.

Described as entertainment-fuelled driving ranges, Topgolf [pictured] has swept the US by storm including its biggest A-list celebrities. Given that Warner Bros. Movie World serves as ‘Hollywood on the Gold Coast’ it’s little surprise Village Roadshow is bringing Topgolf to Queensland's southeast – next door to Movie World and Wet 'n' Wild.

The three-level, 65,000 square footvenue will closely resemble the American Topgolf model, serving as the first of eight Topgolf facilities to open in Australia during the next eight years.

But Topgolf is not the only new way to golf on the Gold Coast.

The virtual reality golf craze has swept the southeast with More Golf and Fitness, Slice and Parkwood International all offering world-class golf without the walking.

As its name suggests, More Golf and Fitness mixes bays of simulators with a fitness facility towards the back, but most come for the chance to play worldfamous layouts and enjoy a beer or two in a relaxed environment.

For residents on the Coast, More Golf

and Fitness also runs weekly golf leagues, which serve as a great way to get your golf fix after dark.

Slice Virtual Golf has opened in the heart of Surfers Paradise and offers the use of brand new Callaway clubs for those who don't have them, as well as the latest in domestic and international beers – and pizza you can buy by the metre.

As part of Parkwood International's major redevelopment, its driving range has also been transformed into six bays of simulators you can use to play some of the world's great courses while sharing in a two-litre beer tower. The 18-hole layout is undergoing improvements while the Boulders and Badlands mini golf

course provides 18 holes of fun for the whole family.

There’s even something new on offer for the traditionalists with the Desmond Muirhead designed Kooralbyn Valley now back up and running, west of the Gold Coast hinterland. From the heart of the Gold Coast it is a 75-minute drive to Kooralbyn but it is well worth the excursion.

The playing surfaces are in reasonable condition (the greens are excellent), and the recovery of the turf during spring will make this a must-play. The Ramada resort overlooking the course also provides the opportunity to turn your trip into a getaway – and to play another round.

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 127

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that's the first public course I'd go to. “It's the whole experience. Going up to Hope is the best, from start to finish.�

Links Hope Island first opened its doors in 1993 and, more than 20 years later, little change to the layout has been needed. In this magazine’s most recent ranking of the Top 100 Courses in Australia, Hope Island rose four places to sit at No.37, just two behind the exclusive Greg Normandesigned The Grand for the title of Gold Coast's highest-ranked course.

Links Hope Island also serves as the personal playground to three-time Australian PGA Championship winner Peter

Senior, who is only too happy to stop and chat with visitors of the resort and provide an unforgettable memory of his own.

The Jack Nicklaus-designed Lakelands Golf Club is arguably now more accessible to visiting golfers than ever. This 20-yearold course continually delivers some of the absolute best playing conditions anywhere on the coast. The layout here is a brilliantly strategic test that builds to a crescendo – a nerve-wracking finishing stretch of five holes starts with the beguiling par-3 14th.

Even at 133 metres off the plates, it’s not to be messed with.

Ross Watson's re-design of The Palms

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128

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

course at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club has ensured both layouts were ranked within the top 50 for the first time in its storied history. With The Pines – designed by the late, great Arnold Palmer – now holding even greater sentiment as The King’s only signature golf course in Australia.

Norman and Bob Harrison's design at The Glades continues to delight Gold Coast visitors with its typical Shark style of offering hero-or-zero options from the tees.

Locals put out the welcome mat The default position of golfers visiting the Glitter Strip is to hit the high profile courses.

But there are a growing number of local courses receiving rave reviews.

Southport Golf Club, minutes from the centre of Surfers Paradise, was once reserved for members and guests, but tour operators such as golfOz can now provide access to this delightful experience.

Nearby, Burleigh Golf Club is continually in great condition. This is in addition to its rolling terrain, dramatic elevation changes and lightning-fast greens. “Combine the best elements of Robina Woods and Lakelands and that’s the quality of Burleigh,� says Beauclerc.

Palmer Gold Coast (formerly Robina Woods) and Palmer Colonial offer vastly contrasting challenges but with a shared premium on-course management.

Surfers Paradise Golf Club, meanwhile, can often be overlooked by visitors but is a

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The default position of golfers visiting the GlitterStrip is to hit the high-profile courses. But there are a growing numberof local layouts receiving rave reviews. wildly popular layout with locals for its shotmaking options in a tight parcel of land.

Over the New South Wales border is Coolangatta-Tweed Heads Golf Club, offering two highly regarded layouts with dramatically different aesthetics. The West Course is a winding, contorted treelined layout that wraps its way around various water courses. The River course is reminiscent of the Melbourne Sandbelt in places with its short par 4s perfectly positioned across the ripples of sandy base that abut the Tweed River.

If you’re a golfer who finds beauty in quirkiness, a visit to Boomerang Farm Golf Course in the picturesque Gold Coast hinterland is a must. Literally a site where boomerang throwing was once taught, the club's proud members regularly vote it into the top 10 courses on the Coast via the Gold Coast Bulletin's annual reader survey. Despite not having a single bunker on the nine-hole layout, it boasts some jawdropping downhill par 3s.

The next time you’re meandering from course to course during a Gold Coast getaway, spare a thought for those of us who live here. We’re on our way to work.

130

More than just golf destination Although a significant driver, golf is not the only reason that the Gold Coast continues to hold its position as Australia's favourite holiday haven.

The theme park capital of Australia – with rumours of another big one on the way – continues to draw families. The introduction of an AFL and NRL team in the past decade has given footy fans another excuse to visit, while regular race meetings at the Gold Coast Turf Club are a perennial favourite among travelling golfers. Gold Coast Regional Botanical Gardens offers a serene setting where you can enjoy a picnic, fuse modern technology with our Indigenous history on the Kaialgumm Games Trail, visit the native Butterfly Garden or simply take a stroll on the boardwalks circling the lake.

If retail therapy is part of your Gold Coast sojourn, you can find some bargains at the Harbour Town outlet centre or go upmarket at Pacific Fair – having undergone a stunning transformation. It now houses world-famous brands such as H&M, Hugo Boss, Uniqlo, Michael Kors, Politix, Sass & Bide, Tiffany & Co. This in addition to a

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

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smorgasbord of sumptuous dining options. “The golf courses are amazing; and all within 40 minutes great accommodation,�

Beauclerc says of the region’s enduring holiday appeal. “The Gold Coast offers the whole holiday package.�

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New Titleist 917 Drivers New Titleist 917D2 and 917D3 drivers set the standard for complete LANBKNI=J?A KY PDA PAAż LNKRE@EJC I=TEIQI @EOP=J?A =J@ BKNCERAJAOO SEPD LNA?EOA =@FQOP=>EHEPU =J@ KQN R=HE@=PA@ HKKGOż OKQJ@ =J@ BAAH PK >AJA[P @A@E?=PA@ CKHBANO =P ARANU HARAH KB PDA C=IAŻ JCEJAANA@ SEPD LNKLNEAP=NU ?PERA A?KEH D=JJAH kŻi =J@ QNA EP PA?DJKHKCUż rjp @NERANO =NA PDA NAOQHP KB =J QJ?KILNKIEOEJC ƚ?KILHA APA LANBKNI=J?AƜ @AOECJ OPN=PACU AILHKUA@ >U EPHAEOP KHB HQ> PK @ARRAHKL PDA EJ@QOPNUƛO IKOP ?KILNADAJOERA =J@ Ad?EAJP @NERAN @AOECJO ƅ KJAO PD=P D=RA D A=NJA@ EIIA@E=PA =??ALP=J?A =J@ R=HE@=PEKJ >U I=JU KB PDA SKNH@ƛO >AOP LH=UANOOż EJ?HQ@EJC @=I ?KPP Ərjp k rŻnƢƐż EHH ==O Ərjp k rŻnƢƐż UAKJC QJ J Ərjp l qŻnƢƐż QOPEJ DKI=O Ərjp l rŻnƢƐż D=NHAU KYI=J Ərjp k qŻnƢƐż ?KPP EAN?U Ərjp k qŻnƢƐż =OKJ

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New Titleist 917 Fairways APPEJC PDA OP=J@=N@ BKN ?KILHAPA LANBKNI=J?A BNKI >KPD PDA PAA =J@ PQ QNBBż JAS EPHAEOP rjp B=ENS=UO LNKRE@A IKNA @EOP=J?A =J@ BKNCERAJAOO SEPD PDA IKOP LNA?EOA ?Q QOPKIEO=PEKJ =R=EH=>HA PK @A@E?=PA@ CKHBANO KB =HH OGEHH HARAHOŻ EPHAEOP rjp k =J@ rjp l IK@AHOż HEGA PDAEN rjp @NERAN ?KQJPANL=NPOż =NA @AOECJA@ QOEJC JAS L=PAJPA@ ?PERA A?KEH D=JJAH kŻi =J@ QNA EP PA?DJKHKC CUU PK LNK@Q?A =J QJ?KILNKIEOEJC ?KI>EJ=PEKJ KB @EOP=J?Aż BKNCERAJAOO =J@ PN= P =FA?PKNU ?KJPNKH SEPD PKQNƄLNABANNA@ HKKGOż OKQJ@ =J@ BAAHŻ EPHAEOP rjp B=ENS=UO @AHERAN EJ?NA=OA@ >=HH OLAA@ BKN IKNA @EOP=J?A SEPPD OQLANEKN BKNCERAJAOOż EJ@QOPNUƄHA=@EJC =@FQOP=>EHEPU SEPD KLPEIEOA@ PN=FA?PKNU ?KJPPNK KHż =J@ PKQNƄ EJOLENA@ OKQJ@ =J@ BAAH PDNKQCD PDA BKHHKSEJC GAU PA?DJKHKCEAOŽ ƈ ?PERA A?KEH D=JJAH Ə Ɛ kŻi =?PERAHU ^ATAO =J@ NA?KEHO =P EIL=?P PK K H=QJ?D PDA >=HH KY PDA B=?A SEPD DECDAN OLAA@ BKN IKNA @EOP=J?AŻ DA EILNKRA@ OKHA ?D D=JJAH @AOECJż BA=PQNEJC = QJEMQA AH=OPKIAN EJOANP SEPD = DKHHKS ?KNAż LNK@Q?AO CNA=PAN B=?A ^ ^ATE>EHEPU E>EHEP BKN B = IKNA ?KJOEOPAJP @A^A?PEKJ PD=P EJ?NA=OAO OLAA@ =?NKOO PDA B=?AŻ ƈ =NE=>HA DE?GJAOO =?A JOANP EO PQJA@ SEPD kŻi PK @AHERAN CNA=PAN KYƄ?AJPAN >=HH OLAA@ BKN IKNA KRAN=HH @EOP=J?A =?NKOO PDA B=?AŻ DA DECDƄOLAA@ż BKNCA@ @ EJOANP EO PDEJJAN =NKQJ@ PDA LANEIAPANż EJ?NA=OEJC ^ATE>EHEPU BKN IKNA @EOP=J?A KJ KYƄ?AJPPNA DEPOŻ ƈ LNA?EOAż ECDƄ AOECJż SEPD = HKS ?AJPAN KB CN=REPU HK?=PEKJż @AHERANO OP=>EHEPU =J@ BKNCERAJAOO >U LNAOANREJC KYƄ?AJPAN >=HH OLAA@ BKN IKNA @EOP=J?Aż IKNA A K_AJŻ ƈ EPHAEOPƛO EJ@QOPNUƄHA=@EJC QNA EP KOAH =J@ JAS QNA EP SAECDP OUOPAI @AHERAN PDA QHPEI=PA EJ LNA?EOEKJ [PPEJC BKN ARANU LH=UANŻ DA rjpƛO =@FQOP=>HA PA?DJKHKCEAO KYAN PDA O=IA PULA KB ?QOPKIEO=PEKJ =RR=EH=>HA KJ PDA EPHAEOP KQN =JŻ EPHAEOP =QPDKNEOA@ [PPAN SEHH QPEHEOA QNA EP KOAH =J@ QNA EP ż ?KQLHA@ SEPD EJPAN?D=JCA=>HA OD=_Oż PK @APANIEJA = LH=UANƛO KLPEI=H OAPQL OK PDAU =NA L LH=UEJC = rjp B=ENS=U PD=P EO [P LNA?EOAHU PK PDAEN OSEJCŻ DA rjp k IK@AH LNKRE@AO =HHƄ=NKQJ@ LH=U=>EHEPU SEPD BKNCERAJAOO =J@ IKNA I @EOP=J?A EJ = H=NCAN LNK[HA B=ENS=UŻ rjp k KYANO IKNA OLEJ =J@ DECDAN H=QJ?D RANOQO rjp l BKN = DECDAN PN=FA?PKNUŻ Ə R=EH=>HA EJ jlŻnƢż jnƢż joŻnƢż jqƢ =J@ kjƢ HK_OŻƐ A=JSDEHAż PDA rjp l IK@AH LNKRE@AO RANO=PEHEPU SEPD ODKP ?KJPNKH =J@ IKNA I @EOP=J?A EJ = ?KIL=?P LNK[HA B=ENS=UŻ rjp l KYANO HAOO OLEJ RANOQO rjp k BKN = IKNA >KNEJC PN=FA?PKNUŻ Ə R=EH=>HA EJ jlŻn =J@ jnƢ HK_OŻƐ Titleist 917 fairways are available now through Titleist authorised golf shops with a suggested retail price in Australia (SRP) at $439 and in New Zealand ((SRP) $499

134

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

Titleist 716 AP1 and AP2 Irons New 716 AP1 is the longest, most forgiving Titleist iron ever, designed for golfers seeking maximum distance and maximum forgiveness. The extreme 360º undercut cavity design creates a large thin unsupported face, delivering speed and launch for more distance, while the high-density tungsten weighting provides maximum forgiveness. SRP Steel: $165 per club; Graphite: $205 per club New 716 AP2 is Titleist’s most advanced players’ iron, made even better, delivering tour-proven distance with forgiveness and solid forged feel. High density tungsten weighting is used to position the centre of gravity low and perfectly aligned at impact for more speed, while at the same time increasing MOI for greater forgiveness and consistent distance. SRP Steel: $225 per club; Graphite: $265 per club

Titleist Vokey Design Spin Milled 6 Wedges Already the most played wedge model on the PGA Tour, Vokey SM6 we edges provide precise distance control, enhanced shot versatility, maximum spin and d superior feel through the following key technologies: A groundbreaking new Progressive Centre of Gravity (CG) design aligns the CG with PDA EIL=?P LKOEPEKJ KB A=?D HK_ PK LNK@Q?A LNA?EOA @EOP=J?A =J@ PN=FA?PPKNU ?KJPNKH SEPPD exceptional feel. Engineered using cutting-edge CAD technology, the P G is Progressive CG visible technology on the back of the wedge.

KS K_ Ć?moƢƄnkƢĆ? o IK@AHO BA=PQNA = HKS PD=P EJ?NA=OAO >=HH OLAA@ KJ =RAN=CA >U 1.5mph (3-5 yards). This low CG position provides a precisely aligned progression p om a typical iron fro i visible i ibl technology, h l hi hli h d b hi li and d raised i d llower section. set. It is highlighted by a thinner topline E@ HK_O Ć?nmƢ noƢĆ? BA=PQNA = IE@ LKOEPEKJĹź LNA?EOAHU =HECJA@ >APSAAJ PDA HKS HK_O =J@ DECD HK_OĹź PD=P LNKRE@AO LNA?EOA @EOP=J?A C=LLEJC =J@ AT?ALPEKJ=H BAAHĹť LANOEKJĹź EILNKRA@

ECD HK_O Ć?nqƢƄokƢĆ? BA=PQNA = DECD LKOEPEKJ PD=P LNK@Q?AO PECDPAN @EOP=J?A @EOL IL=?P LKOEPEKJ KB DECD PN=FA?PKNU ?KJPNKH =J@ >APPAN BAAHĹť DA DECD LKOEPEKJ EO LNA?EOAHU =HECJA@ SEPD PDA EI HK_A@ SA@CAOĹź DECDAN KJ PDA B=?AĹť P EO REOE>HA PA?DJKHKCUĹź DECDHECDPA@ >U = N=EOA@ QLLAN OA?PEKJĹť A PQJA@ PDNKQCD K>Ć›O SKNG =OPAN N=_OI=J K> KGAUĆ›O [RA PKQNĆ„R=HE@=PA@ o OKHA CNEJ@O D=RA >AAJ [JA with the world’s best shot makers, providing golfers of all skill levels with improved shot versatility for their swing type, shot making style and course conditions.

HH [RA o CNEJ@O Ć? Ĺź Ĺź Ĺź Ĺź Ć? =NA ?QNNAJPHU EJ LH=U =?NKOO PDA SKNH@SE@A LNKBAOOEKJ=H PKQNOĹť =?D CNEJ@ EO = @ENA?P NAOQHP KB K>Ć›O ATLANEAJ?A [PPEJC PKQN LH=UANOĹź LNKBAOOEKJ=HO =J@ =I=PAQNO KB =HH OGEHH HARAHO BKN IKNA PD=J ki UA=NOĹť R=EH=>HA EJ QOPN=HE=J CKHB ODKLOĹź KGAU o SA@CAO =NA =R=EH=>HA EJ moƢ PK okƢ HK_O =J@ PDNAA [JEODAOĹ˝ KQN Chrome, Steel Grey and Jet Black (raw).

Scotty Cameron Select Putters The new Scotty Cameron Select putters are engineered with innovative new face inlay PA?DJKHKCUĹź >HAJ@EJC LNA?EOEKJĆ„IEHHA@ ?KPPU =IANKJ ?N=_OI=JODEL SEPD AJD=J?A@ multi-material construction. The result? A tour-validated performance with unmatched feel and feedback.

New Select putters feature sleek, performance-oriented models with new technology, OD=LAO =J@ ?KJ[CQN=PEKJO PK O=PEOBU PDA R=NEAPU KB OPNKGAOĹź OPUHAO =J@ LNABANAJ?AO KB golfers at every level of the game. Central to the new Select line are three unique multimaterial constructions matched to each putter style. Each construction utilises new face inlay technology to produce responsive feel and feedback that golfers have described as ĆšOK_ >QP OKHE@ĹťĆœ The new Select Newport, Newport 2 and Newport 2.5 models feature a sole-to-topline 303 stainless steel inlay. The new Select Newport 2 Notchback features a sole-to-topline oioj =EN?N=_ CN=@A =HQIEJEQI EJH=UĹź SDEHA PDA JAS AHA?P ASLKNP j =J@ ASLKNP k IE@Ć„I=HHAPO ?KI>EJA = oioj =EN?N=_ CN=@A =HQIEJEQI EJH=U SEPD ?KPPUĆ›O B=?AĆ„OKHA pop-through technology. The face-sole is a single piece of lightweight aluminium that comprises the face inlay, wraps down and around to create the midsection of the sole and LKLO PDNKQCD PDA ^=JCA PK ?NA=PA PDA OECDPHEJA [AH@Ĺť JAS AHA?P ASLKNP k KP?D>=?G Q=H =H=J?A IK@AH EO =HOK =R=EH=>HA BKN PDKOA LH=UANO SDK LNABAN = ASLKNPĆ„OPUHA DA=@ but need maximum stability in their stroke.

Available now in Australia and New Zealand golf shops with a suggested retail LNE?A Ć? Ć? QOPN=HE=Ĺ˝ Č‘nor Ć? P=J@=N@Ć?Ĺž Č‘nqr Ć? Q=H =H=J?AĆ?Ĺź AS A=H=J@Ĺ˝ Č‘olr Ć? P=J@=N@Ć?Ĺž Č‘oor Ć? Q=H =H=J?AĆ?Ĺť

Learn more at

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2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

HYPERFLEX II A=PQNEJC = ?KILHAPAHU NAEI=CEJA@ EK KNLD ATKOGAHAPKJ QLLAN @AOECJA@ PK IEIE? PDA HEC=IAJPO KB PDA BKKPż @AHERANO HECDPSAECDP OQLLKNPż S=PANLNKKB IAOD QLLANż ?QODEKJEJC =J@ AJD=J?A@ ^ATE>EHEPU PK AHAR=PA UKQN C=IA PK EPO DECDAOP HARAHŻ EJ?A EPƛO EJ?ALPEKJż PDA

B=IEHU KB CKHB ODKAO D=O >AAJ SKNJ >U OARAN=H KB PDA SKNH@ƛO >AOP LH=UANOż EJ?HQ@EJC JASHU ?NKSJA@ D=ILEKJż EIIU =HGANŻ SRP: $279.95 with BOA; $249.95 with lace

ATHLETIC FLEXIBILITY

EXTREME COMFORT

OPTIMISED STABILITY

ICON Black

SciFlex Tour Glove

Chest Stripe Golf Shirt

H=?G CKHB ODKAO ?KI>EJA [NOP ?H=OO ?N=_OI=JODEL SEPD PDA [JAOPż LNAIEQI I=PANE=HO PK CERA UKQ = CKHB ODKA PD=P EO =O PEIAHAOO =O PDA C=IA EPOAHBŻ QTQNEKQO ?=HBOGEJ HA=PDAN QLLANO KYAN QJL=N=HHAHA@ >A=QPUż [Pż =J@ NAOEOP=J?A PK OPNAP?DEJCŻ AIKNU K=I EO HK?=PA@ EJ PDA PKJCQA =J@ =NKQJ@ PDA ?KHH=Nż LNKRE@EJC = ?QOPKI [P PK AJD=J?A ?KIBKNPŻ KNJ >U kijo LAJ D=ILEKJODEL SEJJANż AJNEG PAJOKJŻ SRP: $439.95

The SciFlex Tour golf glove features the [JAOP D=J@ ?N=_A@ HA=PDANż AJCEJAANA@ PK OP=U OK_AN HKJCAN =J@ LNKRE@A AT?ALPEKJ=H IKEOPQNA NAOEOP=J?AŻ KHBƛO Dzj ?KI>EJ=PEKJ CHKRA KYANO >NA=PD=>HA KSAN APƣ IAOD =?NKOO PDA GJQ?GHAO =J@ =HKJC PDA [JCANOż OK UKQ ?=J ?KQJP KJ = ?KJOEOPAJP LNA?EOEKJ [P A=?D PEIA UKQ LQP EP EJ LH=UŻ SRP: $34.95

NK NUƥ ANBKNI=J?A CKHB ODENPO BNKI =NA PDA QHPEI=PA DECDƄPA?D LANBKNI=J?A C=NIAJP PK SA=N KJ PDA ?KQNOAŻ YANEJC ?KJPAILKN=NU OPUHEJC SEPD OQJ LNKPA?PEKJ =J@ A=OU ?=NA B=>NE?ż A=?D C=NIAJP SE?GO IKEOPQNA =S=U BNKI PDA >K@U =J@ NACQH=PAO H >K@U > @ PAILAN=PQNA GAALEJC G E UKQ ?KKH H =J@ @NUŻ SRP: $89.95

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Pro/SL Currently one of the most popular shoes on the worldwide professional Tours, NKƕ ?KI>EJAO = OK_ż ?KIBKNP=>HAż S=PANLNKKB QLLAN SEPD = IE@OKHAƕ outsole unit that features three distinct layers for underfoot comfort, ultimate LANEIAPAN OP=>EHEPUż =J@ LANBKNI=J?A OLEGAHAOO PN=?PEKJŻ =JU LH=UANO KJ KQN D=RA ?DKOAJ PK SA=N NKƕ EJ?HQ@EJC @=I ?KPPż AKY CEHRUż KQEO KOPDQEVAJż J@NAS ƚ AABƜ KDJOPKJż =J@ =NKQJ@ ni KPDAN LH=UANO KJ PDA and European Tours have opted for the comfort and spikeless performance of Pro/SL. SRP: $279.95 with BOA; $249.95 with lace

PERFORMANCE LEATHER

LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT

SPIKELESS TRACTION

FreeStyle

Contour Casual

Energize

A unique design and technology combines to deliver exceptional traction, mobility and comfort.

FreeStyle shoes help generate maximum power by providing greater freedom of movement throughout PDA CKHB OSEJCŻ OQLANƄ^ATE>HA JAS K_ =T PN=JOHQ?AJP KQPOKHA PD=P KYANO >KPD = OK_AN BAAH =J@ extra grip, while a new FTF 3.0 midsole compound EO PDA >N=J@ƛO OK_AOP =J@ IKOP ?KIBKNP=>HA UAPŻ SRP: $279.95 with BOA; $249.95 with lace

Contour Casual men’s spikeless golf shoes bring versatility to golf footwear. Discover how these casual golf shoes utilise a spikeless outsole, superOK_ LNAIEQI HA=PDANOż HECDPSAECDP QJ@ANBKKP comfort, waterproof protection, and a worldNAJKSJA@ [PŻ SRP: $169.95

Clean athletic styling with easy care uppers.

Energize features Pulsar cleats for turf gripping advantage, radiused legs for extra durability and cleat webbing for easier cleaning. SRP: $169.95

Learn more at

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Sapphire Coast Collection

StaCool Glove StaCool™ golf gloves bring an entirely new “Comfort Level” to enhance your golf game. Feel the advanced performance of StaCool in hot or humid conditions.

SRP: $27.95

Bedford Slim Shorts Easy care fabrric with virtually no wrinkling, shrinkage or fa ading. Deep pockets designed for golf.

SRP: $119.95 5

W th S f Gl WeatherSof Glove DA SKNH@ƛO Dzj CHKRA KYANO CKHBANOO an advanced synthetic glove with a HKJCƄH=OPEJC @EYANAJ?AŻ SRP: $22.95

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FJ Belts N=_A@ BNKI CAJQEJA HA=PDANż >AHPO =NA KYANA@ with a choice of stylish buckles. SRP: $49.95 Belt; $24.95 Buckle

2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

Women’s FJAspire HPEI=PA LANBKNI=J?A AJCEJAANA@ OLA?E[?=HHU BKN SKIAJƛO BAAPŻ A=PQNAO = JAS PDEJ LANBKNI=J?A KQPOKHA SEPD ?QODEKJEJCž KS LNK[HA QHO=N® ?HA=PO BKN CNAAJƄBNEAJ@HU PN=?PEKJž =J@ HAT NE@ QLLANO LNKRE@A OQLLKNPż IKPEKJ ?KJPNKHż S=PANLNKK[JC =J@ AT?AHHAJP >NA=PD=>EHEPUŻ SRP: $279.95 with BOA; $249.95 with lace.

Women’s Spectrum E>N=JP ?KHKQNO =>KQJ@ SEPD

LA?PNQI CHKRAOÆ€ OK_ =>NAPP= HA=PDAN L=HI SEPD E>AN KBÆ£ >=?G LNKRE@AO LNAIEQI BAAH SEPD >NA=PD=>EHEPU EPD I=TEIQI E > PD >EHEP =J@ @ ^ATE>EHEPUÅ» SRP: $32.95Å»

Women’s emPOWER ECDPSAECDPż >NA=PD=>HAż =J@ S=PANLNKKB Ƅ AI EO = ?=PACKNU KB =PDHAPE?ƄEJOLENA@ ODKAO BKN SKIAJ OAAGEJC BKKPSA=N PD=P SEHH LANBKNI KJ ?KQNOA =J@ SEHH DKKG QL SEPD PDAEN OLKNPU KQP[POŻ SRP: $229.95 with Boa; $199.95 with lace

Women’s enJoy AJ KU CKHB ODKAO BKN SKIAJ DAHL AO I=GA CKHB BQJ =J@ AJ KU=>HAƀ A=PQNA >AN EPAƣ BK=I ?QODEKJEJC SEPD IKH@A@ NQ>>AN PN=?PEKJ EJOANPOž K_ EPAƣ AJCEJAANA@ IAOD BKN HECDPSAECDP ?KIBKNP =J@ @QN=>EHEPUž KH LHQO RAN NAODƣ KNC=JE? K@KNƄ?KJPNK HEJEJCOŻ SRP: $139.95.

Learn more at

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IDE

g Bertha sion Drive Big Bertha Fusion pushes the boundaries of forgiveness like no =HH=S=U ?HQ> ARAN D=OĹť DA GAU >AJA[PĆ KNA BKNCERAJAOO IA=JO OPN=ECDPAN ^ECDP KJ IEOĆ„DEPOĹź =J@ OPN=ECDP ^ECDP JAPO HKJCAN @EOP=J?AĹź @NERA =_AN @NERAĹť RRP: $599

Big Bertha OS Irons Big Bertha OS irons incorporate a revolutionary clubhead construction, called d the Exo-Cage, that promotes more dista EJ =J AJPENAHU JAS S=UĹť KSĆ DA TKĆ„ = O extraordinary combination of strength and light weight allows Callaway engineers to distribute more discretionary weight into strategic locations to promote more forgiveness and to allow our next-generation 360 Face Cup technology to function more Ad?EAJPHUĹť DA NAOQHP EO IKNA >=HH speed across the face to give you more distance on every swing.

RRP: $199.99 (steel) $234.99 (graphite)

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Chrome Soft DNKIA K_ P=GAO = HH PD=P D=O ?KILHAPAHU A[JA@ CKHB >=HH NBKNI=J?A =J@ AHAR=PAO to another level. has the proprietary Dual K_ =OP KN KN B=OP >=HH OLAA@ BNKI PDA @NERANĹź iece cons ction leading to even more control throughou h he bag, low compression for extremely OK_ BAAH @ = KQN NAPD=JA KRANĹť RRP: $59.99

17 EQUIPMENT GUID

Steelhead XR Irons The Steelhead XR Irons are where a signature shape meets explosive performance with our industry-leading, next generation 360 Face Cup. DAU @AHERAN PDA [JAOP ?KI>EJ=PEKJ ARAN KB OLAA@ż forgiveness, distance and control in a Callaway iron.

RRP: $154.99 (steel) $169.99 (graphite)

Bertha Fusion way Woods Big Bertha Fusion Fairway Woods reach a new HARAH KB BKNCERAJAOO >U BQOEJC KQN EJ@QOPNUƄHA=@EJCż IQHPEƄI=PANE=H PA?DJKHKCEAO EJPK KJA ?HQ>ż SEPD =J QHPN=ƄHECDP PNE=TE=H ?=N>KJ ?NKSJż ATPNAIA high MOI design and our industry-leading Hyper ed Face Cup. This product is very easy to HA >AEJC ATPNAIAHU BKNCEREJC =P PDA e time. RRP: $389.99

MD3 Milled Wedges: The MD3 Milled Wedges have the versatility and selection ffor every shot, every course condition and every swing. It’s the most complete wedge line that Callaway has ever created. By leveraging 3 unique u grinds (S-Grind, C-Grind and the W-Grind), our new milled Progresssive Groove PEEIEO=PEKJ E PE OUOPAI P PD PD=PP KLPEIEOAO PE E OLEJ E BBKN A=?D D HHK_ _ =J@ @ @ =J?A@ ping and design, you can specialise your wedges to you ame and all shots that you want to hit. RRP: $219.99 ea

arn more a at

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Z765 Driver

DA on ANEAO @NERANO ?KI>EJA = CNA=PAN OSAAP OLKP SEPD = HKSAN ?AJPNA KB CN=REPUŻ DA JAS KSAN =RA KHA BA=PQNAO =J =@R=J?A@ IQHPEƄOPAL @AOECJŻ DA JAS PNAP?D HAT QL B=?A D=O >AAJ ATPAJ@A@ B=NPDAN around the crown and sole and the new lightweight crown EO PDEJJAN =J@ HECDPANŻ D=JGO PK PDAOA BA=PQNAOż PDA @NERANO KYAN = HKSAN ?AJPNA KB CN=REPU =J@ = IKNA ^ATE>HA HKSAN B=?Aż delivering a sweet spot that is 10 percent larger than that of PDA LNAREKQO IK@AHOŻ

Z65 Irons The new Srixon Z Series irons are designed to allow golfers OSEJC PDNKQCD PDA >=HH SEPD ?KJ[@AJ?A =J@ P=GEJC @A=@ =EI =P PDA LEJ BNKI =JU HEAŻ DAU KYAN PDA OIKKPDAOPż IKOP ?KJOEOPAJP BAAH KB LNA?EOEKJƄBKNCA@ OK_ DA=@ I=PANE=HŻ L@=PA@ >=OA@ KJ EJOECDPO BNKI PKQN LNKOż PDA @AOECJ BA=PQNAO = H=NCAN B=?A =J@ PDA H=PAOP ARKHQPEKJ KB PDA ƄOD=LA@ KQN Ż Ż KHAż SDE?D D=O >AAJ N=PA@ DECDHU OEJ?A EPO EJPNK@Q?PEKJŻ

ZU65 Utility DA NETKJ on PEHEPU NKJ D=O I=@A NETKJƟO >AOP ENKJ LANBKNI=J?A ARAJ >APPANŻ A=PQNEJC DKHHKS ?KJOPNQ?PEKJ EJ = OHEI LNK[HAż PDA on EO = RANO=PEHA KLPEKJ BKN LH=UANO OAAGEJC @EOP=J?A =J@ ?KJPNKH KY PDA PAA KN KJ HKJC =LLNK=?D ODKPOŻ

ZF65 Fairway EIEH=N PK PDA on NERANO PDA on BA=PQNAO = AS PNAP?D HAT QL =?A LNKRE@EJC = H=NCAN OSAAP OLKPŻ DA on =HOK D=O = NKSJ @AOECJ SDE?D BA=PQNAO = OPN=PACE?=HHU LH=?A@ ?NKSJ OPAL BKN = DECD H=QJ?D =J@ HKS OLEJ BKN HKSAN HK_O =O SAHH =O = N? QLLKNP D=JJAH BKN PDA DECDAN HK_O NAOQHPEJC EJ = DECDAN H=QJ?D =JCHA =J@ KLPEI=H OLEJŻ 142

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2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

ZH65 Hybrid DA JAS on U>NE@O =NA @AOECJA@ SEPD PDA N? QLLKNP D=JJAH PK AJD=J?A =??QN=?UÅ» DEO LNKCNAOOERA ?NKSJ BA=PQNA LNKIKPAO = DECD H=QJ?D =JCHA =J@ KLPEI=H OLEJ =?NKOO PDA B=?A AOLA?E=HHU OHECDPHU =>KRA ?AJPNAÅ» DA NAOQHPO =NA IKNA ?KJOEOPAJP @EOP=J?AO =J@ =??QN=?U BNKI HKJCAN ODKPOÅ»

GEL-ACE PRO FG żP KN PDA QHPEI=PA [Pż SEPD S=PANLNKKB HEJEJC I=PANE=HO PK GAAL UKQN BA Ƅ EO PDA ^=CODEL KB KQN CKHB HEJAŻ J ATPANJ=H DAAH ?KQJ AŻ LNKRE@AO AT?AHHAJP NA=NBKKP OP=>EHEPU =J@ >=H=J?A KJ PDA LH=UEJC OQNB=?A K[HA HQO PDA JAS OKHA QJEP BA=PQNAO QODEKJEJC EJ PDA DAAHż = HKSAN LNK P= IE@OKHA =J@ NAEJBKN?A@ IE@BKKP SN=LO BKN PKNOEKJ=H OP=>EHEPUŻ

RTX-3 Ƅl SA@CAO BA=PQNA l GAU PA?DJKHKCEAO LNKRAJ PK DAHL UKQ CAP ?HKOAN PK PDA DKHAŻ AAH =H=J?EJCƣ A?DJKHKCU ODE_O PDA ?AJPNA KB CN=REPU ?HKOAN PK PDA ?AJPNA KB PDA SA@CA B=?A ƅ PDA EIL=?P VKJA ƅ PK @A?NA=OA RE>N=PEKJ =J@ I=TEIEOA DA=@ OP=>EHEPU =P EIL=?PŻ KHA NEJ@O BA=PQNA = PKQN LNKRAJ OD=LA SEPD IKNA HA=@EJC A@CA >KQJ?A PK DAHL CAP PDA ?HQ>DA=@ PDNKQCD PDA PQNB B=OPAN =P EIL=?PŻ DEO LNKIKPAO ?NEOLAN BAAH =J@ IKNA ?KJOEOPAJP DA=@ OLAA@ BKN EJ?NA=OA@ OLEJ =J@ ?KJPNKHŻ AS KQN EL NKKRAOƣ D=RA = @AALANż J=NNKSAN OD=LA SEPD = OD=NL A@CA N=@EQO EJ =HH HK_O PK AJD=J?A ?KJP=?P =?NKOO = SE@A R=NEAPU KB ?KJ@EPEKJOŻ

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PING G Drivers (Standard, LS Tec, SF Tec) Contact American Golf Supplies (02 9524 8233) or ping@americangolf.com.au for PING fitting account information

PING G Irons The G iron utilises revolutionary COR-Eye Technology (introduced in the GMax irons), which activates the OKHAĹź B=?A =J@ PKL N=EH EJ ^ATEJC BKN ?KJOEOPAJPHU B=OPAN ball speeds across the hotter face. The entire G set is heat treated using a specialised process that creates Hyper 17-4 alloy, which is 40% stronger than traditional 17-4 stainless steel. COR-Eye Technology pro o r PEIAO PDA B=?A ^ATEJC SEPD EILNKRA@ OP=> Ĺť Ĺ˝ Č‘jqi LAN ?HQ> SĆ•OPAAH OD= = Č‘kji LAN ?HQ> SĆ•CN=L Ć• E D=_ _

The complex exoskeleton design yields PING’s thinnest (0.43 mm) and lightest crown to date, saving eight grams while creating an intricate nd stable structure. The an weight savings helped drive he centre of gravity lower th nd deeper than any PING an @NNERANş EJ?NA=OEJC @UJ=IE? HK_ _ J@ AHAR=PEJC OECJE[?=JPHU =J or maximising distance and fo orgiveness. Vortec Technology on fo he back of the club and turbu th ulators on he crown contribute to reduc th cing drag 37% n the impact zone, yielding greater clubhead in peed and ball velocity for me sp easurable distance ains from all swing speeds. ga

Ĺ˝ Č‘pii Ć?OP=J@=N@ OD D=_OĆ?Ĺź Ĺ˝ Č‘pmi SEPD KQN D=_Ć? Ć?S

PING G Crosso over PING created a new category – the Crossover – to combine the precision, workability and control of an iron with the ball speed and forgiveness of a hybrid. It shouldn’t be confused with h a driving iron; it’s higherlaunching and much more e BKNCEREJCĹź =J@ KYANO = HKP KB RANO=PEHEPUĹť AU RRP: $390 (standard d CN=LDEPA OPAAH OD=_Ć? Č‘mln Ć?SEPD KQNN OD=_Ć?

PING iBla e Irons DA >K@U EO LNA EKJ ?=OP BNKI OK_ş DECD OPNAJCPDƄPKƄSAE N= N=PEK mlj OP=EJHAOOO OOPAAHŝ DA NAOQHP EO PDA OK_AOPş LQNAOP BAAH ARAN EJ = PING iron. W the workability to shape shots on command, the compact iB de iron head delivers consistently precise distance and trajec ry control that surpass skilled players’ expectations.

i LAN ?HQ> SĆ•OPAAH OD=_Ĺž Č‘kpn L > SĆ•CN=LDEPA OD=_

PING G Fairway Woods (

andard, SF Tec, Stretc a

Nearly all golfers struggle getting the ll in i the air easily with fairway woods. To solve th , t dge airway woods have a lower l d that yields 12% higher face impact, relative to G30 er series. High-strength Ca e 455ÂŽ steel allows for a thinner, precision-machined riablenest crown ever in a fairway wood means discretionary wei thickness face. Our t n has been used to move th G lower and farther back, making it easier to get the ball airbor e.

Tec The G Te fairway woods have weight closer to the heel, a lighter swing w ight, HK_O PK LNK@Q?A NECDPĆ„PKĆ„HA_ ODKP >AJ@ BKN LH=UANO SDKOA PULE?=H IEOO E HK A PNAP?D l EO ?QOPKIĆ„AJCEJAANA@ PK OPNAP?D = LH=UANĆ›O @EOP=J?A KY PDA PAA =J J ODKPO EJPK PDA CNAAJ SEPD EPO H=NCAN DA=@Ĺź OHECDPHU BKNS=N@ Ĺź jlƢ HK_Ĺź =J@ NA@Q?A@ OLEJĹť Ĺ˝ Č‘mnn Ć?OP=J@=N@ OD=_OĆ?Ĺź Č‘nii Ć?SEPD KQN OD=_Ć?

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Learn more at

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2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

PING G Hybrids An innovative tiered internal sole helps activate face ^ATEJC PK LKSAN PDA >=HH KY PDA B=?A B=OPAN BKN CNA=PAN distance. The ultra-thin crown allows for a low-back center of gravity to ensure high launch, reduced spin and a higher MOI for maximizing forgiveness. The high-strength Carpenter 455ÂŽ steel face is precisionmachined to variable thickness, which saves weight and I=TEIEVAO ^ATEJC PK CAJAN=PA B=OPAN >=HH OLAA@O =?NKOO the face for consistently longer results. Ĺ˝ Č‘lri Ć?OP=J@=N@ CN=LDEPA OPAAH OD=_Ć?Ĺź Ĺ˝ Č‘mln Ć?SEPD KQN OD=_Ć?

ECCO Biom Hybrid 2 (Men’s & Women’s) Our best-selling shoe. Incorporating an understated-yet-athletic look that transcends the course, ECCO BIOMŽ Hybrid 2 strikes the perfect balance betw ween inspiring comfort and lightweight performance.

FACTS & BENEFITS: • BIOMŽ NATURAL MOTIONŽ technology brings the player closer to the grou und SDEHA KYANEJC =J =J=PKIE?=H H=OP OD=LA • YAK leather upper for increased breathability and durability • Direct-injected TPU outsole featuring E-DTSŽ technology for excellent grip, PN=?PEKJş @QN=>EHEPU ^ATE>EHEPU • HYDROMAXŽ treated leather is superbly weather and perspiration resistant Woman’s) o Available Men’s 41-48, Woman’s 36-42, AU RRP: $279 Men’s & $259 (W

Men's

ECCO Men’s Street Retro If you favour casual over conservative, the ECCO Street Retro is a natural choice, and has been for years. It’s unpretentious, timeless styling belies the smart construction and technological nuance that have made it one of our IKOP LKLQH=N ODKAOş I=GEJC EP A=OU PK ODE_ BNKI PDA ?HQ>DKQOA PK UKQN KSJ house in total comfort.

FACTS & BENEFITS: • TPU outsole featuring E-DTSÂŽ technology for excellent grip and traction • HYDROMAXÂŽ treated leather is superbly weather and perspiration resistant Ćˆ PNAJ@U OJA=GAN BKN >KPD KJ =J@ KY PDA CKHB ?KQNOA Available Men’s 41-47, AU RRP: $189

Women's

ECCO Men’s Cage

ECCO Casual Hybrid (Men’s & Woman’s) DA =OQ=H U>NE@ ?=P?DAO PDA AUA FQOP =O AYA?PERAHU =O EP ?=P?DAO the foot. With remarkably rich leathers protected by HYDROMAXŽ, a highly^ATE>HA IE@OKHA =J@ =J Ƅ Ƽ KQPOKHA SDE?D LNKRE@AO DQJ@NA@O KB traction angles for superb grip, ECCO Casual Hybrid delivers comfort right out of the box and will enhance the foot’s freshness the entire round.

FACTS & BENEFITS: • TPU outsole featuring E-DTSÂŽ technology for excellent grip and traction • HYDROMAXÂŽ treated leather is superbly weather and perspiration resistant Ćˆ AIKR=>HA HA=PDAN EJH=U OKHA KYANO PDA KLPEKJ KB ATPN= SE@PD Available Men’s 41-47, Woman’s 36-42, AU RRP: $279 (Men’s), $259 (Woman’s)

Don t let the name mislead you: the ECCO CAGE was built to release your LKSAN KJ PDA ?KQNOAĹť PĆ›O HECDPĹź ^ATE>HAĹź =J@ ?KJPKQNA@ PK [P PDA BKKP =O KJHU =J ECCO shoe can. FACTS & BENEFITS: • One piece direct-injected PU stability cage that wraps from the heel, through the midsole and across the toe box • Anatomical outsole design that aligns and moves in unison with the foot Ćˆ ĆĽ PNA=PA@ =H@AN= HA=PDAN QLLANO KYAN = QJEMQA =AOPDAPE? and improved durability Ćˆ D=IL HEIĆ„ KG OLEGAO KYAN NA@Q?A@ SAECDP =J@ A=OA KB NALH=?AIAJP Available Men’s 41-47, AU RRP: $289

Contact American Golf Supplies (ping@americangolf.com.au 02 9524 8233) for ECCO stockist information. december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 145

2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

COBRA KING F7 & K KING F7+ Driver with COBRA CONN NECT Introducing Cobra Golf’s longest and a smartest drivers – KING F7 and KING F7+.

The F7 and F7+, provide golferss with a choice between oversized performance or traditional shaping g while delivering playable distance and unmatched feel with extreme forgiveness.

Both models boast the COBRA CONNECT Powered by Arccos system which features an ultralight sensor that iss embedded into the grip, allowing golfers to nd accuracy of every drive. COBRA CONNECT userss automatically track the distance an simply pair their club with the free Arccos Driver smartphone app to receive their performance K PDA KHA @=P=Ĺź =??AOO N=JCA[J@AN @EOPP=J?AO BKN miĹźiii ?KQNOAO =J@ ?KILAPA EJ PDA EJC KB virtual long drive competition. Playyers will also be able to access exclusive COBRA conttent within the uct tech videos and golf tips from COBRA coaches and PGA TOUR Pros.

Arccos Driver app, including produ DA p @NERAN BA=PQNAO = H=NCAN B=?A =J@ =@@NAOO LNK[HA SDE?D EJ?NA=OAO =J@ LNKRE@AO IKNA @EOP=J?AĹź forgiveness and speed across the face. An adjustable weight system with three CG setttings in the front, the back and heel LKOEPEKJO =HHKSO BKN PDNAA @EYANEJC >=HH ^ECDPO Ć… HKSĹź DECD =J@ @N=SĹź PK LNKRE@A CKHBANO SEPPD KLPEIQI @EOP=J?A =J@ PN=FA?PKNU in a variety of conditions.

The KING F7 driver also features a re-engineered Forged Ti-811 E9 Face that is lightter, thinner and hotter, creating AAP KJA =?NKOO PDA B=?AĹť IQHPEĆ„I=PANE=H A PNAI IA =N>KJ E>AN NKSJ BNAAO QL B=OPAN >=HH OLAA@O =J@ = H=NCAN SA discretionary weight, d engineers i to t create t three th distinct di ti t CG positions iti a and d three performance distances. di ti i ht which hi h allowe ll ed U HUq SEPD I=NP =@ PA?DJKHKCUU =HHKSO CKHBANO PK ?DKKOA >APSAAJ AECDP HK_ OAPPEJCO PK [JA PQJA H=QJ?D ?KJ@EPEKJO =J@ maximise distance while keeping the t club head square at address.

Cobra KING F7 Driver available e November 15. RRP: $529, Cobra KING F7+ Driver availab ble November 15. RRP: $579

KING F7 7 Fairway & F7 Hybrid Introducing th he new collection of KING F7 fairways and hybrids. Utilising COBRA’s E?KJE? =gAN =EH UOPAIş [NOP EJPNK@Q?A@ EJ PDA >N=J@O KNECEJ=H =gAN SKK@O IKNA PD=J mi UA=NO =CKş >HAJ@A@ SEPD PK@=UƛO BNKJPƄPKƄ>=?G SAECDPEJC OUOPAIO BKN PDA LANBA?P combination o of personalisation, distance, control and forgiveness from any lie.

The F7 Fairrways feature progressive rail heights that are strategically engineered to >A OD=HHKSAN EJ PDA lƄm SKK@O =J@ LNKCNAOOERAHU PDE?GAN =O UKQ IKRA EJPK PDA pƄq PK deliver easy-u up distance and consistency from every lie. The front of the rails improve turf forgiveness w while the back of the rails help the club glide out of the turf more smoothly.

DA p =ENNS=UO ?KIA AMQELLA@ SEPD PSK AJPNA KB N=REPU Ć? Ć? LKOEPEKJO =J@ kiĆ„ gram and 3-g gram moveable weights that can be positioned in the front or the back to deliver a pene etrating or towering trajectory, depending on player preference and varying course condittions.

To maximisse distance and ball speed, COBRA Golf engineers used a thinner, highOPNAJCPDĹź BKNCA@ mpn OP=EJHAOO OPAAH B=?A EJOANP =HKJC SEPD = jpĆ„m OP=EJHAOO OPAAH >K@UĹź SDE?D ?NA=PAOO @EO?NAPEKJ=NU SAECDP =J@ =HHKS BKN CNA=PAN =@FQOP=>EHEPUĹť U HUq @AHERANO AECDP HK_ LKOEPPEKJO Ć?HK_ N=JCAO =NA HEOPA@ >AHKSĆ? PK [JAĆ„PQJA LH=UANOĆ› HKJC C=IAĹť KQJ@EJC K KQP PDA IAP=HSKK@ ?KHHA?PEKJ =NA PDA p U>NE@OĹź SDE?D =HOK BA=PQNA Ć›O =g gAN Q=H =EH @AOECJ BKN EILNKRA@ PQNB NA=?PEKJ =J@ ?KJOEOPAJ?U BNKI ARANU HEAĹť =?D ?HQ> Ć?kĆ„l Ĺź lĆ„m =J@ mĆ„n Ć? BA=PQNAO = [TA@ >=?G Ć?jlĆ„CN=IĆ? PK @AHERAN DECD =J@ @ = IKNA ?AJPNA@ IKNA BKNCERAJAOO =J@ LNA?EOEKJ ODKP =_AN ODKPĹť DA JAS DU>NE@ PKQPO = PDEJ mnn B=?A BKN I=TEIQI >=HH OLAA@Ĺť DA DU>NE@O =HOK BA=PQNA Ć›O U HUq SDE?D =HHKSO CKHBANO PK ?DKKOA >APSAAJ AECDP HK_ OAPPEJCO PK [JA PQJA launch condittions.

Cobra KING G F7 Fairway available November 15. RRP: $329 Cobra KING G F7 Hybrid available November 15. RRP: $279

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2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

Only available with the purchase of a COBRA KING F7, F7+ and LTD Driver

TRACK YOUR DISTANCETM LIKE NEVER BEFORE WITH COBRA'S FIRST EVER CONNECTED GOLF CLUB COBRA CONNECT TM electronic tracking device integrated into the grip of the Driver allows you to Track Your DistanceTM in every drive, and provides statistical analysis on distances and consistency down the fairway.

Your drive is automatically recorded on your tee shot and the total distance is calculated as soon as you hit your second shot

Review your stats post round to analyze your performance including your longest drive, average driving distance, and number of fairways hit

Share your best drives and compete against playing partners, friends and the COBRA CONNECT TM worldwide community

IAN, HERE’S THE DATE FROM YOUR ROUND!

The Ridgewood CC - East/West

28 Apr

0

268

+/-

10th Longest Drive

LONGEST DRIVE

54% vs. Peers Stats

252

3.2

67nd

74%

3L : 5: 6R Fairways Hits

Smart Distance

Handicap

Crowns

Fairways

LONGEST DRIVE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

268

Bomb Drive Driving yds

YDS

3328

Bonus yds

+

50

Total Arccos Yard

Handicap yds

+ =

532 3910

Bests

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 147

2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

COBRA KING FORG GED TOUR Irons & KING FORGED TOU UR ONE LENGTH Irons Introducing the ultimate players iron, the KING FORGED TOUR, along with its [NOP

OAPŻ DA RANOEKJ EO ?QNNAJPHU in the bag of PGA TOUR profession nal and COBRA PUMA GOLF athlete, Bryson DeChambeau. With Tour proven pe erformance, these irons are optimised for LANBKNI=J?A LNKRE@EJC PDA OK_ BAAHż @EOP=J?A =J J@ LNA?EOEKJ @AI=J@A@ >U PDA best golfers.

The KING FORGED ONE LENGT THTM utilises a 5-step forging process PD=P AJOQNAO LNA?EOA ENKJ OD=LEJCż = IKNA NA[JA A@ CN=EJ OPNQ?PQNAż =HKJC SEPD unparalleled feel for better players. The set is co omprised of constant length irons that have been re-engineered d for 7-iron weighting and are designed with optimised geometries, to provide consistent trajectory and distance gapping from long irons to wedges. In addition, th he KING FOR RGED ONE features 100% CNC Milled Face and Grooves for maxim mum spin and d trajectory control, Tungsten Weighting (in 4i-7i) for a lower and centred CG and a a Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) Insert (4i–8i) behind the hittin ng zone to da amp vibrations for better feel and moves weight toward the perimete er for added heel h and toe relief.

Rounding out the COBRA Golf 2 2017 iron fam mily are the new KING FORGED ENKJO PD=P KYAN KQNƄLNKRAJ LANBKNI=J?A L Aż BAAH =J@ LNA?EOA ODKPƄI=GEJCŻ The KING FORGED TOUR irons utilise the same e premium technologies as the KING FORGED ONE, but with a traditional set le ength and head weight progression.

The KING FORGED TOUR, which also a use a 5-sstep forging process, are designed with Tungsten Weighting employing high-density tungsten weights that are strategically positioned on the sole of the clubhead for a lowe ered and centred CG that delivers the ideal blend of forgiveness and precision. A TPU Insert located behind the hittin ng zone damps vibrations and improves feel while CNC milled faces and grooves improve the structure and maximise spin and trrajectory control.

KHBƛO KYANEJC =HOK EJ?HQ Q@AO

OLA?E=HPU SA@CAO EJ noK =J@ oiKŻ DA ANO=PEHA CNEJ@ @AOECJ BA=PQNAO PKAż heel and trailing edge relief and is combined c witth COBRA’s iconic notch technology which allows the club to sit square and lower at address. COBRA’s patented milling g technique delivers d optimised surface roughness across the face that helps maximise spin and control for more precise shots arou und the green n.

Cobra KING FORGED TOUR Iro ons available November 15. RRP: $199 $ Cobra KING FORGED TOUR ONE LENGTH H Irons available January 2017. RRP: $199

KING OS Irons Reintroducing COBRA Golf’s famed KING Oversized irons featuring largest iron head and the e brands largest Sweet KJA ARANŻ DA KRANOEVA@ LNK[HA ?K KQLHA@ SEPD EILNKRA@ performance technologies deliverr an easy to hit iron built BKN ATLHKOERA @EOP=J?A SEPDKQP O=?NE[?EJC BKNCERAJAOO KNΘ?KJPNKHŻ Featuring an all new PWRSHEL LLTM face technology, which helps to lower and centre CG C (Centre of Gravity), and provides a thinner, lighter face e and sole structure, delivering higher ball speeds across the face for more distance. A full-hollow body construction throughout the OAPż @AHERANO = OK_ż UAP OKHE@ OKQJ@ BKN DECDAN H=QJ?D =J@ improved consistency. Additional y, a 100% milled face improves groove structures for maximum spin and trajectory control, while progressive spin tec chnology delivers optimum spin performance throughout the set. V-grooves on the 4-6 irons reduce spin for more distance, U-grooves on the 7-PW increase spin for more controlled shots into greenss, and wedge spaced grooves on the GW and SW produce extra spin for scoring g around the green.

Multi-material cavity constructtion with a new aluminium medallion badge saves weight that is then positioned p by upto 60 grams of high density tungsten weighting in the toe, cre eating the low and centred CG in an oversized DA=@Å» LNAIEQI JE?GAH ?DNKIA [ [JEOD LNKRE@AO HKJCÆ„H=OPEJC @QN=>EHEPU =J@ smooth aesthetics.

Cobra KING OS Irons available November 15. RRP: $179

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2017 E EQUIPMENT GUIDE

KING F7 7 Irrons & KING F7 ONE LENGTH Irons 7O Introducing Co a Golf’s most groundbreaking and versatile iron obra family yet. The w KING F7 set of irons, along with COBRA’s e new

OAP LNKRE@AO [NOPƄARAN p @AO CKHBANO SEPD KLPEIEOA@ LANBKNI=J?Aż @EOP=J?Aż BKNCERAJAOO =J@ ?KJPNKH KB ARANU ODKPŻ DA kijp ENKJO KYANEJC EO DA=@HEJA@ >U PDA pż SDE?D >QEH@O QLKJ PDA LKLQH=N o IK@AH PD=P EJPNK@Q?A@ PDA QHPEI=PA LNNKCNA AOOERA OAP PK PDA I= =NGAPŻ DA p ENKJO

EJ?KNLKN=PA ƛO L=PAJPA@ PA?DJKHKCU PK @AHERAN AO =@R=J?A@ ?=REPU ?KJ = OAP PD=P QPEHEOA JOPNQ?PEKJ PK KLPEIEOA PDA ?D=N=?PANEOPE?O KB A=?D ENKJŻ JAS

LANBKNI=J?A ? face introduces a thinner face and sole structure that increases PDA SAAP KJA =J J@ @AHERANO @EOP=J?A Aż LNA?EOEKJ =J@ BKNCERAJAOOŻ KJC SEPD = JAS DEJż LPEIEOA@ =J@ ANOKJ=HEOA@ Ə Ż Ż Ɛ =HK LKHUIAN IA@=HHEKJ J >=@CA PD=P EO HECDPAN PD=J OPAAHż =HHKSO PDA PK >A o cre moved lower to eate even more disttance and forgiveness. Additionally, ILNK IEHHEJC EI KRAO CNKKRA OPNQ?PQNAO EJ PDAOA ENKJO PK @AHERAN J =J@ PN=FA?PKNU ?KJPNKH PDNKQCDKQP PDA OAPŻ I=TEIQI OLEJ DA IAJƛO p

ENKJO I=GA PDAEN @A>QP =O ƛO [NOP ARAN OEJCHAƄHAJCPD ENKJ J OAPŻ JOLENA@ >U NEOEJC A D OP=Nż NUOKJ A D=I>A=Qż p p QPEHEOAO = OEIEH=N ?KJOPNQ?PEKJ =O PDA pż =HKJC SEPD S =?AO =J@ Ż Ż Ż DA A?DJKHKCUŻ D p BA=PQNAO ?KJOP=JP HAJCPD ENKJO PD=P D=RA >AAJ @ BKN pƄENKJ HAJCPD =J@ SAECDPEJC NAƄAJCEJAANA@ S PDNKQCDKQP PDA OAPż =J@ =NA @AOECJA@ SEPD KLPEIEOA@ CAKIAPNU PK LNK@Q Q?A ?KJOEOPAJP PN=FA?PKNU =J@ @EOP=J?A C=LLEJC BNKI HKJC ENKJO PK SA@CAOŻ J B=?Pż ƛO NAOA=N?D ODKSO PD=P =?NKOO = PDA >K=N@ LH=UANO PAOPEJC p ENKJO EILNKRA@ EJ =??QN=?Uż SEPD PECDPAN @EOP=J?A =J@ @ @EOLANOEKJ R=NE=PEKJ BNKI ODKPƄPKƄODKPż HA=@EJC PK EJ?NA=OA@ =@@EPEKJ ?KJ[@AJ?A =J@ >APPAN APPAN ENKJ LH=UŻ LH=U J =@ @@EPEKJż PDA ?HQ>O KJAƄHAJCPD KJA HAJCPD @AOECJ OEILHE[AO PDA OAP OAPƄQL QL BKN KJA D PDA OAP HA=@EJC PK IKNA ?AJPNA@ ?HQ> B=?A EIL=?POŻ OSEJC PDNKQCD 15. RRP: $149 Cobra KING F7 Irons available November ovember 15 Cobra KING F7 ONE LENGTH Irons available January 2017. RRP: $149

PUM MA IGNITE Spikeless Sport Golf Shoes JPNK@Q Q?EJC PDA LEGAHAOO LKNPż PDA H=PAOP =@@EPEKJ PK PDA LNAIEQIż LANBKNI I=J?AƄNA=@U B=IEHU KB BKKPSA=NŻ DA LEGAHAOO LKNP LNKRE@AO PDA QHPEI=PA EJ BQJ?PEKJż RANO=PEHEPU =J@ B=ODEKJż ?KQLHA@ SEPD KQNƄLNKRAJ LANBKNI=J?A =J@ OP=>EHEPUż I=GEJC EP = IQOPƄD=RA ODKA BKN CKHBBANO PK SA=N KJ =J@ KY PDA ?KQNOAŻ K ?NA=PA = ?KIBKNP=>HAż DECDƄLANBKNIEJC CKHB ODKAż PDA PA= =I =P KHB BK?QOA@ OLA?E[?=HHU KJ PDA I= =PANE=Hż QPEHEOEJC = QJEMQA BKQNƄS=U OPNAP?D S=PANL LNKKB IAOD ?KI>EJA@ SEPD = HA=PDAN O=@@HAŻ DA LNA AIEQI HA=PDAN FQTP=LKOA@ =C=EJOP PDA IAOD BB=>NE? LNKRE@AO = OKLDEOPE?=PA@ż IK@ANJ OEHDKQA APPA SEPD = OD=NL OPUHA PD=P ?=J OA=IHAOOHU transition from the golf course to dinner with BNEAJ@OO KN ARAJ =J Kd?A IAAPEJCŻ DA ODKAO =HOK EJPACN= =PA LNAIEQI @AP=EHEJC EJ?HQ@EJC = HA=PDAN LQHHƄP=>ż NA^A?PERA H=?AO =J@ = ƄOD=LA@ DAAH ?HEL LNKRE@EJC ATPN= OQLLKNP BKN =HH PULAO KB LH=UANO =J@ OSEJC PULAOŻ JA AS U>NE@ KKPEA ?KJOPNQ?PEKJ =HKJC SEPD PDA loi PKJCQA @AOECJ J HK?GO EJ UKQN BKKP BKN = CHKRAƄHEGA [P ?KQLHA@ SEPD QHPEI=PA ^ATE>EHEPUŻ DA =@@EPEKJ KB = BQHH HAJCPD K=I IE@OKHA SKNGO PK LNKRE@A QJL=N=HHAHA@ ?KIBKNPŻ K=I EO =J QHPN=ƄNAOLKJOERA ?QODEK KJEJC BK=I SEPD EJ?NA@E>HA AJANCU NAPQNJ LNKLANPEAO LNKRE@EJC PDA LANBA?P ?KI>EJ=PEKJ KB OQLLKNP =J@ OP=>EHEPUŻ DEN PUƄJEJA OPN=PACE?=HHU LH=?A@ DAT=CKJ OLEGAO LNKRE@A IQHPEƄ @ENA?PEK KJ=Hż NEL KJA N=?PEKJ SDEHA km ?DARNKJ OD=LA@ HQCO EJ?NA=OA PN=?PEKJ SDANA EPƛO JAA@A@ IKOP @QNEJC PDA OSEJCŻ DA LH=?AIAJP KB PDA HQCO =HOK SKNG PK LNKRE@A PN=?PEKJ KJ OIKKPD OQNB=?AOż OK PDEO ODKA ?=J A=OEHU >A transittioned from the golf course to the clubhouse and beyond.

A IGNITE Spikeless Sport available November 1. RRP: $149.95 PUMA

Learn more at

www.cobragolf.com.au

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 149

2017 EQUIP PMENT GUIDE

JPX900 DRIVER DA JAS rii QOAO = N=_ of Mizuno’s best design ideas to send the ball a really, really long way. It’s built on consistently high ball OLAA@Oş PD=P @KJƛP @NKL KY KJ miss-hits. Added to that, the

riiĆ›O OD=HHKSAN LNK[HA HKKGO easy to hit, sending all the right messages to your brain. The JPX900 is also the company’s most adaptable driver ever – so you can create the spin rates and launch angle best suited to your ball speed (even if EPĆ›O LNK>=>HU = >EP B=OPAN PD=J UKQĆ›NA QOA@ PKĆ?Ĺť Mizuno engineers didn’t rest until the JPX900 produced the fastest ball speeds of any driver coming through their test ?AJPNAĹź SDEHA = JASHU ?KJ[CQNA@ IQHPEĆ„PDE?GJAOO B=?A =J@ clever strengthening of key areas means the JPX900 gives a base for the longest drives you’ll hit within the USGA and R&A guidelines.

With two 8-gram weights and three Fast Tracks (the middle KJA OHE@AO BNKJP PK >=?GĆ?Ĺź PDA rii CERAO IKNA LH=UANO PDA opportunity to max out those parameters. The toe and heel port allows spin/launch to be adjusted alongside fade/draw bias. The weights can also be removed completely. The Quick Switch DKOAH IA=JO UKQ ?=J ?D=JCA PDA HK_ Ć?KN OSEP?D OD=_OĆ? =P PDA PQNJ of a key. Combined with a face angle prop on the sole – you can OAP PDA rii PK =JU HK_ KN HKKG PD=P OQEPO UKQN OSEJC =J@ AUAĹť CNA=P @NERAN @AOANRAO = CNA=P OD=_ Ć… OK EVQJK =@@A@ PDA authentic Speeder Evolution 2 as standard.

R=EH=>HA EJ IAJĆ›O =J@ Ĺź OP=J@=N@ OD=_ QFE Ć?NACQH=N OPEYĆ? SEPD = KHB NE@A Ć„lj loi NKQJ@ CNELĹť =@AO

KJHU Ć?OP=J@=N@ OD=_Ĺ˝ QFE =@EAOĆ?Ĺť

JPX900 HYBRID EVQJKĆ›O [NOP =@FQOP=>HA DU>NE@ D=O = JAS LNK[HA PK I=GA EP LH=U more like a long iron. “Most people use hybrids to replace their longer irons – so we fully committed to making the JPX900 more of a long iron replacement,â€? says Mizuno’s R&D Director Tetsu Kanayama. “We’ve made a number of little changes that make it easier to strike like an iron, but with the safety net of the wood style body attached.â€?

Mizuno’s Shockwave sole enables the club head to contract and expand on impact – creating more energy than normal for a compact head. The Shockwave also puts mass low in PDA DA=@ş OK EP SKNGO KY PDA PQNB =O SAHH =O PDA PAAŝ DA B=?A sits more like an iron than previous hybrids, while the body DAHLO EP ^U DECD =J@ OPN=ECDP HEGA = B=ENS=U SKK@ŝ APSAAJ PDA Shockwave sole and extra mass low in the clubhead, all the weight is designed to get the ball airbourne =J@ ^UEJC Ad?EAJPHUŝ EVQJKƛO QE?G SEP?D OUOPAI =HHKSO HK_ PK >A =@FQOPA@ PK = N=JCA of 4 degrees.

Available in men’s RH (2, 3, 4, 5) & LH (3, m KJHUĆ?Ĺť P=J@=N@ OD=_Ĺ˝ QFE Ć?NAC OPEYĆ?Ĺž OP=J@=N@ CNELĹ˝ KHB NE@A Ć„lj loi NKQJ@ CNELĹť =@EAOĆ› KJHU Ć?mĹźnĆ?Ĺž OP=J@=N@ OD=_Ĺ˝ QFE =@EAO

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JPX900 0F Y WOOD AIRWAY A fairway wo ood that closes the distance gap p on your driver – that’s the JP PX900, which uses Mizuno o’s expanding g Shockwave Sole to produce prodigious ball b speeds along with a centra ally located, singlesliding weigh ht to make it playable for a surprising breadth of swing types.

Mizuno’s Shockwave sole enables the clubhead to contract and expand on impact – creating mo ore energy than normal for a compact head. The Shockwave also puts mass low in the head, so it works KY PDA PQNB =O SAHH =O PDA PAAĹť jnC SAECDP ?=J >A [TA@ =P =JU LKEJP KJ PDA central Fast Track to increase launch and spin rates for slower swing speeds, KN PK OQEP @EY YANAJP ?KQNOA ?KJ@EPEKJOĹť EVQJK =HOK NAIKRA@ SAECDP BNKI PDA ?NKSJ Ć?SDE?D EO S=gA OD=LA@ PK I=EJP=EJ EPO OPNAJCPDĆ? =J@ LH=?A@ EP HKSAN EJ PDA ?HQ>DA=@ BKN =J A=OU H=QJ?DĹť CNA=P B=ENS=U SKK@ @AOANRAO = CNA=P OD=_ – so they added the authentic Speeder Evolution 2 as the standard option.

R=E=>HA EJ I IAJĆ›O Ć?lĹź n pĆ? =J@ Ć?l n KJHUĆ?Ĺť P=J@=N@ OD=_Ĺ˝ QFE NACQH=NĹź OPEY =J@ OP=J@=N@ CNELĹ˝ KHB NE@A Ć„lj loi NKQJ@ CNELĹť =@EAO

KJHU Ć?lĹź n pĆ?Ć? =J@ OP=J@=N@ OD=_Ĺ˝ QFE =@EAOĹť F

2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

JPX900 IRONS EVQJK D=O QJRAEHA@ PDNAA JAS rii IK@ K@AHO H A=?D D QOEJC E = OLA?E[?

E[ performance-based material – JPX900 Tou ur, JPX900 Forge ed and JPX900 Hot Metal.

Mizuno’s newest material Chomoly 4140 0M – is introduce ed in the

rii KP AP=Hş SDE?D ?KI>EJAO KYAJOERA >=HH OLAA@O SEPD PDA adjustability of a forged iron. The secret to this groundbreaking new material is its versatility, which not only paves the way to o Mizuno’s thinnest ever cup face for phenom menal distance, >QP =HOK NAI=EJO OK_ =J@ >AJ@=>HA EJ PDA DKOAH BKN LNA?EOA lie angle adjustments. The wedges also havve their own I=PANE=H ƅ = OK_AN li OPAAH PD=P KYANO =HH PD DA BAAH =J@ precision around the greens that even distance-seeking golfers demand.

The JPX900 Forged is the second genera ation of Mizuno’s forged irons to use Boron-infused steel, which =HHKSO = OK_ƄBAAHEJC BKNCA@ ENKJ PK LNK@Q?A DECDAN >=HH OLAA@Oŝ DANA=O EVQJKƛO [NOP CAJAN=PEKJ KB KNKJ steel irons used a uniform, thinner face to generate more distance, the JPX900 Forged pushes the technology forwarrd with a multi-thickness face. The JPX900 Fo orged also boastss a milled pocket, which enhances energy transfer over a wider impact area without compromising on Mizu uno’s renowned feel. The extende ght to be redistributed ed pocket cavity allows 21.5g of weig to the exxtreme corners of the PowerFrame ffor added stability and NA@Q?A@ KJ[@AJ?AƄEJOLENEJC @ @EOP=J?A HKOO KJ IEODEPOŝ AP PDA ?K IE@OEVA LNK[HA SEHH OPEHH =LLA=H PK LNKBAOOEKJ=H =J@ AHEPA LH=UANOş SEPD PDA shorter irons from 8-GW more compact forr extra precision and control at the sc coring end of the bag.

The J JPX900 Tour, Grain Flow Forged from a single billet of 1025E Pure Se elect mild carbon steel, is the purest, most solid-feeling iron in Mizuno history, combining authentic Mizuno feedback with advanced OP=>EHEPUU =J@ OQNLNEOEJC KYƄ?AJPNA LANBKNI=J?A ?KQNPAOU KB IKNA weight b being pushed to the extremities of the head’s PowerFrame.

DEO ?H=OOOE? EVQJK LH=UANƛO ENKJ >K=OPO = O=PEJ [JEODş OPN=ECDPAN HEJAO =J@ = PK KA LNK[HA PD=P ?KI>EJAO SEPD = ?KIL=?P B=?A =J@ J=NNKS tapered d sole to promote crisp ball-striking, excellent workability and enhanced trajectory control.

EPD =HH JAS ?HQ>O ?QOPKI >QEHP =J@ @EOL=P?DA@ EJ [RA @=UOĹź EVQJK has strivved to “create the best products for consumersâ€? for 110 years, =J@ PDA JAS rii ANEAO ENKJO =@DANA [NIHU PK PD=P KNECEJ=H OLENEP =J@ @AOOENAĹź SDEHA KYANEJC PDA >AOP LANBKNI=J?A >AJA[PO PD=P IK@ANJ technology can bring.

All three new Mizuno JPX900 iron models will be available at retail from Se eptember 2016. For further information on the new JPX900 Series p plus Mizuno’s full range of golf equipment, apparel and accesso ories visit: mizuno.com.au.

RRPs: J JPX900 Hot Metal $199.00 per iron JPX900 0 Tour $239.00 per iron JPX900 0 Forged $239.00 per iron

JPX Platinum Ball The JPX Platinum combines all of Mizuno’s available technologies to deliver a tour-feel ball suited to mid and lower swing speeds – up to 90 mph driver swing speed. Three elements of the jump (initial ball speed, launch angle, spin rate) are determined d t i db by th the material t i l and d structure t t off PDA >=HHŝ DA H=PEJQI EOO = IQHPEƄH=UANş [RAƄLEA?A ?KJOPNQ?PEKJ SEPD njk @EILHAO BKN EJ?NA@E>HA OK_ BAAHş distance and hang-time. A h highenergy core increases ball speed SDEHA I=EJP=EJEJC = OK_ BAAHŝ DA distance gain is enhanced by b a dimple cluster design that enables PDA >=HH PK I=EJP=EJ EPO ^ECDP @QNEJC descent. An anti-glare satin cover helps eliminate distraction.

T7 FOR RGED ES WEDGE The new T7 fforged wedges delivver Mizuno’s disttinctive OK_ N=EJ HK KS KNCA@ BAAH >QP SEPD OECJE[?=JPHU enhanced grroove durability thanks to a small infusion of Boron within its steel.

The spin c control perform mance of the face has alre eady been enha anced by a new, more p precise milling ttool that allows PDA HK_Ć„OLA? ?E[? Q=@ QP CNKKRAO PK >A cut as tight as a possible to R&A R and USGA HEIEPO BKN ARA AJ IKNA OLEJĹť DKOA

HK_Ć„OLA?E[?

CNKKRAO =NA SE@AN =J@ OD=HHKSAN EJ PDA DECDAN HK_O BNKI nm΋ PK ok΋ş PDAJ @AALAN =J J@ J=NNKSAN EJ PDA HKSAN HK_O BNKI mn΋ PK nl΋ş =HHKSEJC CKHBANO C PK NA=HHU I=TEIEOA OLEJ on both full and partial shots.

The grooves aren’t the on nly things that vary according to HK_ş SEPD PDA LEP?DEJC SA@CA HK_O BNKI mn΋ PK mq΋ BA=PQNEJC = OPN=ECDPAN leading edge and topline for fuller shots, graduating into a more NKQJ@A@ LNK[HA EJ PDA DECDAOP HK_O BNKI nq΋ PK ok΋ŝ DKOA DECDAN HK_O also boast more visible grinds that narrow the sole to deliver crisp ball-striking from a wide variety of lies.

Mizuno has been Grain Flow Forging its iron and wedge heads since 1968, a process that compresses and maintains a consistent grain through the neck d hosel delivering the feel and the precise distance control so crucial in the and A@CA C=IAŝ p SA@CAO =NA =R=EH=>HA EJ PDA OP=J@=N@ DEPA =PEJ [JEODş KN SA A OPQJJEJC HQA [JEOD PD=P @A>QPA@ EJ H=OP UA=NƛO n SA@CAOŝ PDA ailable in men’s RH & LH (44 to 62 degrees); Ladies’ RH only (RRP: $239) Ava For further information on the T7 wedges and Mizuno’s full range of golf equipment, apparel and accessories visit: mizuno.com.au.

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EPD KP =QJ?D k┼╝ PDANA =NA IKNA S=UO PK = >APPPAN game. No other set gives you the freedom to cho oose =JU ?KI>EJ=PEKJ KB =@FQOP=>HA KN KYOAP @NERAN┼╝ OP=J@=N@ @ ENKJO KN KYOAP B=ENS=U SKK@O┼╝ DU>NE@O┼╝ ENKJкёSKK@O =J@ SEPD =O OPAAH KN CN=LDEPA OD=_O┼╗ DA NAOQHPкЂ OAP KB ?HQ>O PD=P SEHH =HHKS UKQ PK CAP PDA RANU >AOP BNKI =HH L=NPO KB UKQN C=I IA >=?GA@ >U KQN EJ@QOPNU HA=@EJC EBAPEIA =NN=JPPU┼╗

Hot Launch 2 Drive ers DA JAS S moi??

KP =QJ?D k @NERANN EO =R=EH= =>HA EJ PSK IK@AHO =J@ KYANOO LH=UANO MQ=HEPU A AJCEJAANEJC =J@ LANBKNI=J?A┼╗ DA BKNCA@ BKQNкё LEA?A PEPP=JEQI DA=@ BA=PQNAO R=NE=>HA B=?A PDE?GJAOO кЈ кљ PA?DJKHKCU BKN I=TEIQI LKSAN =J@ @EOP=J?A BNKI IKNA contactt points on the face. кѕ DA = =@FQOP=>HA IK@AH BA=PQNAO = @AAL ?QL B=?A @AOECJ BKN ATT?ALPEKJ=H LKSAN┼╗ кѕ =OUкёPKкёQOA =@FQOP=>EHEPU SEPD AEC CDP @EYANAJP HK_ KLPEKJO BNKI q┼╗n PK jk┼╗n EJ KJA @ACNAA EJ?NAIAJPO┼╗ кѕ HE?Aкё[CDPEJC PA?DJKHKCU EJ PDA KYOAP IK@AH =HHKSO PDA B=?A PK кЪOMQ=NA QLкЪ =P EIL=?P BKN = OPN=ECDPAN >=HH ^ECDP┼╗ кѕ AS @AOECJ EO ARAJ IKNA KYOAP PD=J ARAN PK AJOQNA UKQN straig ghtest drives. кѕ R=EH= =>HA EJ ji┼╗n┼д┼╝ jk┼д =J@

кЈ ECD =QJ?DEJC jl┼╗n┼дкљ

Hot Launch 2 Iron-Woods R=EH=>HA EJ@ERE@Q=HHU KN =O = ?KILHAPA OAP┼╝ PDA JASHU @AOECJA@

KP =QJ?D k NKJкё KK@ OANEAO BA=PQNAO EJ?NA=OA@ DA=@ RKHQIAO BKN more forgiveness and a thin forged B=?A BKN IKNA OLNEJCкёHEGA AYA?P =J@ @EOP=J?A┼╗ DEO JAS NKJкё KK@ OQNL=OOAO =HH DU>NE@ ATLA?P=PEKJO┼╗ кѕ KI>EJAO = DKHHKS DULAN OPAAH >K@U SEPD = BKNCA@ OQLANкёPDEJ OPAAH B=?A SEPD R=NE=>HA B=?A PDE?GJAOO BKN I=TEIQI >=HH OLAA@┼╗ кѕ A=RU OKHA =J@ DKHHKS >K@U EJ?NA=OAO H=QJ?D =JCHA =J@ BKNCERAJAOO KJ every shot.

Hot Launch 2 Iron ns Hot Lau unch 2 irons incorporatte an expa anded undercut cavity to t provide maximum forgivenesss and con nsistent performance.

Featurin ng advanced toe SAECDPEJC┼╝ PDA OK_ mlj OP=EJHA AOO OPAAH @A AOECJ LNKRE@AO CNA=P =??QN=? ?U =J@ BAAH BKN LH=UANO KB K =HH HARAHOO┼╗ кѕ =OP QJ@AN?QP ?=REPU =HHKSO SAECDP to be e moved away from the face and EJPK PPDA OKHA BKN = DECDAN ┼╝ H=QJ?D =JCHA A┼╝ =J@ AJD=J?A@ BKNCERRAJAOO┼╗ кѕ KP?D DKOAH BA=PQNA@ EJ PDA l PDNKQCD pкёENKJO NAIK KRAO SAECDP BNKI PDA DAAH =J@ NALKOEPEKJO EP PK PDA PKA┼╝ A AHKJC=PEJC PDA OSAAP OLKP BKN QJOQNL=OOA@ BKNCERAJAOO┼╗ кѕ qкёENKJ PDNKQCD BA=PQNA = IKNA PN=@EPEKJ=H OAP QL @AOECJA@ PK @AHERA AN AT?ALPEKJ=H BAAH =J@ ?KJPNKH KJ =LLNK=?D ODKPO┼╗

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Now available in both stand and cart bag options, OGIO Silencer technology BA=PQNAO jm EJ@ERE@Q=H ?KIL=NPIAJPO PD=P =HHKS BKN = R=NEAPU KB ?HQ> ?KJ[CQN=PEKJOŻ Each compartment has a protective membrane at the top that centres and gently DKH@O PDA ?HQ> OD=_Ż DA ?KILNAOOEKJ [P >KPPKI OA?QNAHU DKH@O PDA ?HQ> CNEL =J@ GAALO EP BNKI IKREJC =J@ OLEJJEJCŻ DA NAOQHP EO EJ?NA@E>HA LNKPA?PEKJ BKN UKQN ?HQ> OD=_O =J@ DA=@O ?KI>EJA@ SEPD EHAJ?EJC PA?DJKHKCU PD=P CNA=PHU IEJEIEVAO PDA =JJKUEJC OKQJ@ KB ?D=PPANEJC ?HQ>OŻ Less chattering and less dings will extend the look of your new clubs!

Silencer Cart Bag • 16 way 2X Barrel Silencer Club Management • Cart strap channel • Glove hook-and-loop fastener attachment patch • Insulated hydration pocket • Easy grab trunk handle • Pen sleeve • 8 zippered pockets including Fleece lined valuables pocket ƈ JHU SAECDO kŻlGC • Available in a wide choice of colours

Silencer Stand Bag • 14-way Woode stand top with advanced Silencer club protection membrane and integrated front handle • Cart strap channel • Walking accessible insulated water bottle pocket • Easy grab trunk handle • Detachable front pocket panel for embroidery/logo application • 7 pockets including Fleece lined valuables pocket ƈ JHU SAECDO kŻpGC • Available in a choice of 4 colours

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LTI-LAYER TS3 - 3 PIECE MUL PERFORMANCE 3-PIECE DESIGN FEATURING DOUBLE-COVER PTIMAL BLEND OF CONSTRUCTION FOR THE OP ANCE WITH GREEN DRIVER AND IRON PERFORMA SIDE SPIN AND CONTROL • Large, high energy 80 comprression core delivers low driver and long iron spin resulting in higher ball speed, greater distance and straighter shots AN ?KRAN BKNIQH=PEKJ KYANO AT?ALPEKJ=H ƈ NKLNEAP=NU >HAJ@ EKJKIA greenside spin and control • Dual radius 332 dimple pattern for wind-cheating stability and peak & drop performance SRP $39.99

XSF – OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE WITH SOFTER IMPACT FEEL 2-PIECE HIGH-ENERGY CONSTRUCTION WITH LOW COMPRESSION CORE FOR SOFT FEEL AND LONGER CARRY FOR GREATER DISTANCE. ƈ ECD AJANCU ?KNA LNK@Q?AO DECDAN >=HH ^ECDP SEPD HKJCAN ?=NNU BKN CNA=PAN distance and straighter shots ƈ ECD @ABKNI=PEKJ nn ?KILNAOOEKJ ?KNA KYANO OK_AN EIL=?P BAAH ƈ ANK@UJ=IE? @EILHA L=PPANJ ?NA=PAO CNA=PAN HE_Ż • Durable, thin ionomer blend cover produces more spin for greenside control • Great performance ball for moderate swing speeds SRP $29.99

LDY – WOMEN’S SPECIFIC DESIGN FOR GREATER DISTANCE WITH SOFT FEEL HIGH ENERGY CORE PRODUCES HIGHER BALL FLIGHT WITH LONGER CARRY FOR GREATER DISTANCE AND STRAIGHTER SHOTS ƈ nn ?KILNAOOEKJ ?KNA KYANO OK_AN BAAH =J@ CNA=PAN @EOP=J?A BKN OHKS PK moderate swing speeds ƈ ANK @AOECJ llk @EILHA L=PPANJ ?NA=PAO CNA=PAN HE_Ż • Super white ionomer blend cover for optimal combination of greenside control and durability • The optimal choice for Lady golfers SRP $24.99

HPX - POWERFUL TRAJECTORY/ EXPLOSIVE PERFORMANCE

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EXPLOSIVE DISTANCE WITH HIGH SPEED OPTIMAX CORE AND MULTIRADIUS 352 DIMPLE COVER FOR PENETRATING BALL FLIGHT, LONG CARRY AND EXTENDED ROLL • Larger and faster Optimax core material delivers longer, straighter drives • 70 compression core generates explosive distance for medium to fast swing speeds • Multi-radius 352 dimple pattern for extended peak trajectory resulting in long carry and extended roll.

• Pure ionomer cover for long lasting durability SRP $19.99

2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

Wilson Staff FG Tour 100 irrons H=OOE? EO JAS =C=EJ EJ PDA PEIAHAOO JAS EHOKJ P=Y KQN jii ENKJOÅ» JOLENA@ =O = ?KIIAIKN=PERRA OAP BKN PDA EHOKJ jii UA=N =JJERANO=NUż PDAOA BKNC CA@ >H=@AO EJBQOA EJOLEN=PEKJ BNKI I=JU PA?DJKHKCEAOO EJ PDA >N=J@Æ&#x;O SEJJEJC ENKJ DANEP=CAÅ» DA KQN jii ENKJO =NA PDA QHPEI=PA EJ BAAH BKN PDA C=IAÆ&#x;O >A AOP AAH LH=UANOÅ» RRP: $179.95 (STEEL)

Wilson 0 Staff D300 driver Wilson Staff D300 irons

DA EO lii JKP KJHU OP=J@O BKN @EOP=J?Aż EP @A[JAO EPŻ DA JASHU @AOECJA@ lii @NERAN ?KI>EJAO ECDP ECDP A?DJKHKCU SEPD E?NK KNPAT AJAN=PKNO PK NA@Q?A PDA @N=C BKN?A HA=@EJC PK EJ?NA=OA@ ?HQ> DA=@ OLAA@O =J@ CNA=PAN @EOP=J J?AŻ NU UKQN @NERANż =J@ PDAJ PNU KQNOŻ KQƛHH QJ@ANOP=J@ SDU UKQN BKQNOKIA ?=HHO UKQ PDA EOP=J?A =?DEJAŻ RRP: $449.95

DA EO lii JKP KJHU OP=J@O BKN @EOP=J?Aż EP @A[JAOO EPŻ DA =?A JATP CAJAN=PEKJ KB A?DJKHKCU =HHKSO BKN po« KB PDA B=?A PK >A ?KILHAPAHU BNAA BNKI PDA >K@Uż @AHERANEJC I=TEIQI >AJ@ =J@ = D REOE>HA LKSANBQH H=QJ?DŻ EPD PA?DJKHKCU =NKQJ@ PDA AJPENA B=?Aż PDA KSANN KHAO [HHA@ SEPD ilj NAPD=JA EIL=?P =HHKS PDA B=?A PK ^AT QLKJ Q D = ?NEOLż LQNAż BKN EILNKRA@ BAAHż SEPD NA?KCJEV=>HA OKQJ@ BKN @EOP=J?A =J@ =??QN=?UŻ i able in Men’s and Ladies RRP: $ ((STEEL) RRP: $159.95 (G HIT HITE)

Wilson Tour V6 ir

Wilson Staff C200 irons

FG s

DANA EO JK BAAHEJ D=P D ?KIL=NAO PK LQNEJC = SKNH@Ƅ?H=OO BKN KQN ENKJŻ JPNK@Q?EJC PDA >N=J@ JAS ENKJO BNKI EHOKJ P=YŻ KI>EJEJC PD=P Q QHPEI=PA LH=U=>EHEPU SEPD C=IAƄ?D=JCEJC C QJCOPAJ OKHA PA?DJKHKCU PK ?KJPNKH PDKO EOO DEPO =J@ I=GA ARANU ODKP ?KQJPŻ DA EEHOKJ P=Y KQN o ENKJO ƅ @AOECJA@ N PDA AAH LH=UAN OAAGEJC = OHAAG OAPQLż P QHPEI HPEI=PA P BBAA@>=?G @> G =J@ @ ODKPƄOD=LEJC D P D E ?KJPNKHŻ R RRP: $179.95 (STEEL)

DA EHOKJ P=Y kii ENKJO LQOD EJJKR=PEKJ PK QJBKNAOAAJ HEIEPOŻ AOECJA@ BKN PDA NKOOKRAN LH=UAN OAAGEJC = IE@OEVA DA=@ OD=LA =J@ IK@AN=PA KYOAPż PDA kii UEAH@O @EOP=J?AO JKP =R=EH=>HA BNKI PN=@EPEKJ=H ENKJOż SDEHA OPEHH KYANEJC >AOPƄ EJƄ?H=OO BAAHŻ P PDA ?KNA KB EPO @AOECJ EO PDA LNKLNEAP=NU =?A A?DJKHKCUż SDE?D IEJEIEVAO PDA ?KJP=?P LKEJPO >APSAAJ PDA >K@U =J@ PDA PDEJ B=?AŻ DAOA IEJEIEVA@ ?KJP=?P LKEJPO ƅ ?KI>EJA@ SEPD = OANEAO KB KSAN KHAO =NKQJ@ PDA AJPENA LANEIAPAN KB PDA B=?A ƅ I=TEIEVA B=?A ^AT QLKJ EIL=?Pż NAOQHPEJC EJ EJ?NA=OA@ >=HH OLAA@ =J@ @EOP=J?AŻ DAOA KSAN KHAOż KN HEPAN=H DKHAO PD=P OQNNKQJ@ PDA DA=@ ?KILHAPAHU =J@ LNKRE@A PDA OL=?A BKN PDA B=?A PK ^ATż =NA [HHA@ SEPD ilj NAPD=JA PK LNKRE@A EILNKRA@ OKQJ@ =J@ KQPOP=J@EJC BAAHŻ RRP: $139.95 (STEEL) RRP: $169.95 (GRAPHITE)

Wilson S aff FG Tour 5 irons AOECJA@ BKN PDA R Nż PDA EHOKJ Y KQN n ENKJO =NA LANBA A?PHU HU BKNCA@ BKN OK_ BAA AH SDEHA EJ?KNLKN=PEJC @EOOP=J?AƄ AJD=J?EJC PA?DJKHKCU EJ PDA HKJC =J@ IE@ ENKJO BKN AJD=J?A@ LH=U=> >EHEPUŻ RRP: $159.95 (S STEEL)

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DEO LKHK ODENP ?KIAO SEPD = P=EHKNA@ [P BKN = OKLDEOPE?=PA@ OLKNPU HKKGÅ» NEJC OKIA LANOKJ=HEPU PK PDA CKHB ?KQNOA EJ KQN OECJ=PQNA LKHK ODENPÅ»

ECDHU BQJ?PEKJ=H I=PANE=HO @N=S OSA=P =S=U BNKI UKQN OGEJ =J@ DAHL GAAL UKQ @NU =J@ ?KIBKNP=>HA @QNEJC CKHBŻ AP NA=@U BKN @NU SEPD NAOP EJG E?NK NEŻ jii« E?NK[>NA KHUAOPAN ODENP

NAOP EJG E?NK[>NA >NA=PD=>HA ?=L LNKRE@AO loi @ACNAA RAJPEH=PEKJ BKN ?KKHEJC ?KIBKNPÅ» ECDPSAECDP =J@ >NA=PD=>HA B=>NE?Å» KEOPQNAÆ„SE?GEJC B=>NE? =J@ DA=@>=J@ DEO ?=L EO @AOECJA@ PK CERA UKQ PDA LANBA?P [P PD=P SEHH GAAL =HH AUAO CHQA@ KJ UKQÅ» SKÆ„PKJA@ LKHK ODENP BNKI PD=P EO P=EHKNA@ PK [P UKQN EILNAOOERA performance on the green.

KKG OD=NL =J@ LH=U UKQN LANOKJ=H >AOP EJ PDEO LKHK ODENP BNKI NAOP EJG

ECDHU BQJ?PEKJ=H I=PANE=HO @N=S OSA=P =S=U BNKI UKQN OGEJ =J@ DAHL GAAL UKQ @NU =J@ ?KIBKNP=>HA @QNEJC CKHBÅ»

DEO KHB L=JPO =NA PDA LANBA?P =@@EPEKJ PK UKQN =?PERA HEBAOPUHA Æ… >KPD KJ =J@ KY PDA CNAAJÅ»

ECDHU C U BQJ?PEKJ=H I=PANE=HO @N=S OSA=P =S=U BNKI UKQN OGEJ =J@ DAHL GAAL UKQ @NU =J@ ?KIBKNP=>HA @Q QNEJC CKHBÅ» A?D=JE?=H PNAP?D B=>NE? BKN EILNKRA@ @ BNAA@KI KB IKRAIAJPÅ» Æ„ B=>NE? BKN EJ?NA=OA@ =EN ^KS SÅ»

KKG PDA L=NP =J@ LH=U UKQN >AOP EJ KQN IKOP >NA=PD=>HA CKHB LKHK ODENPŻ ECDHU BQJ?PEKJ=H I=PANE=HO @N=S OSA=P =S=U BNKI UKQN OGEJż =J@ DAHL GAAL UKQ @NU =J@ ?KIBKNP=>HA @QNEJC CKHBŻ AP NA=@U BKN @NU SEPD NAOP EJG E?NK NEŻ jii« E?NK[>NA KHUAOPAN ODENP When Sun Protection is a Fashion Crest Link Micro Dri UV protection NIOK?GO =HHKSO UKQ PK @NAOO PK EILNAOOż SEPD KRAN p ?KHKQNO PK ?DKKOA BNKI EP =HHKSO UKQ PK I=P?D UKQN =NIOK?GO SEPD UKQN ODENPO =J@ L=JPOŻ Crest Link Micro Dri UV Armsocks LNKRE@AO liǢ LNKPA?PEKJż EPO OLA?E=HHU @AOECJA@ A=?D EJEODEJC =>NE? LNKRE@AO ?KIBKNP =J@ A=OA EJ IK>EHEPU =J@ AJOQNAO PD=P UKQ NAI=EJ ?KKH =J@ @NU QJ@AN PDA OQJŻ

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2017 EQUIPMENT GUIDE

PnP Siteline Dynamic Duo. Putter & Chipper DAJ LQPPEJC KN ?DELLEJC UKQ I=U PDEJG PD=P UKQN AUAO =NA SDANA PDAU ODKQH@ >Aż @ENA?PHU KRAN PDA >=HH ƅ >QP =NA PDAUƁ EPAHEJAƛO HH MQ=NA EOQ=H HECJIAJP Ə Ɛ @AOECJ =OOEOPO EJ OAPPEJC UKQ QL LANBA?PHU ƅ Ż J ?KI>EJ=PEKJ SEPD EPAHEJAƛO ENA?PEKJ=H KEJPAN Ə Ɛ UKQ SEHH JKP KJHU >A LKOEPEKJA@ LANBA?PHU KRAN PDA >=HHż UKQ SEHH =HOK D=RA PDA ?HQ>ƄB=?A =??QN=PAHU OMQ=NA@ PK PDA P=NCAP L=PDŻ J =J@ =NKQJ@ PDA CNAAJż PDANA EO = @EOPEJ?P =@R=JP=CA EJ QOEJC >KPD EPAHEJA ?HQ>O EJ P=J@AIż =O PDAU D=RA PDA O=IA Ə Ɛż OPNKGAż BAAH =J@ >=H=J?AŻ KEJC PDEO SEHH DAHL UKQ PK @ARAHKL NALA=P=>HAż IQO?HA IAIKNUż ?KJ[@AJP =J@ =??QN=PA OPNKGAOŻ Putter RRP: $189, Chipper RRP: $179, Together RRP: $329

PnP S SX1 Putter

S H O R T G A M E I N N O VAT O R S

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=J@ PDA EPAHEJA UJ=IE? QKż EILKNP=JPHU ?KJBKNI PK =J@ NACQH=PEKJOŻ EOEP LJLCKHBŻ?KI BKN IKNA EJBKNI=PEKJ =O PK DKS =J@ SDU PDA J SA@CA N=JCA A ?=J EILNKRA =J@ I=GA PDA C=IA KB CKHB IKNA O=PEOBUEJC BKN UKQŻ DAOA SA@CAO =NA =R=EH=>HA =O HA_ KN NECDP D=J@ ?HQ>Oż EJ?HQ@A BNAA [PPEJCż DA=@ ?KRANOż L=PAJPA@ =ENƄ ?QODEKJA@ CNEL =J@ BNAA @AHERANUŻ Lob, Sand & Gap RRP: $169 each, Any 2 Rakes RRP: $299 comb, Lob, Sand & Gap RRP: RRP $429 sett

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SLAY IT!

DOMINATE WITH YOUR DRIVER

BY PATRICK REED WITH GUY YOCOM

"0'4',% 2&# ** 5#** in match play is far

more important than most golfers think.

Putting, of course, is huge – it’s about 40 per cent of all strokes – and iron play can be a key factor, too. But it all begins with the driver.

For example, at the 2014 Ryder Cup I came to the final hole all square in my singles match against Henrik Stenson. I hit one of the best 3-irons of my life to set up a winning birdie, but it was an accurate tee shot that allowed that to happen. Ͳ If you’re consistently in the fairway, it puts tremendous pressure on your opponents. It sends a message that you aren’t going to make mistakes, which can affect their morale and tempt them to take chances they wouldn’t ordinarily take. On the flip side, if you’re driving it crooked, you’re doomed. You’ll miss greens, and even if your short game is spectacular, those sloppy tee shots will catch up with you. Ͳ Being a good driver in match play means having a few different shots in your bag to fit the holes and situations you’ll face. I’ll show you how to hit three types of drives that I rely on. They’ll make you more versatile off the tee – and a winner in your next match.

Photographs byy Walte Wal Io ooss Jr.

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 163

2&# &'%& -+

GRAB 20 EXTRA METRES WHEN YOU NEED IT Ͳ B PDANAƛO = >QJGAN PK ?=NNUż = @KCHAC PK @NERA =?NKOO KN = L=N n PK NA=?D EJ PSKż ?=HH KJ PDA ECD KI>Ż PƛO = PKSANEJC ODKP @AOECJA@ PK OP=U EJ PDA =EN =O HKJC =O LKOOE>HAŻ OP=NP >U PAAEJC PDA >=HH D=HB =J EJ?D DECDAN PD=J JKNI=H =J@ LH=UEJC EP = ?KQLHA EJ?DAO B=NPDAN BKNS=N@ EJ IU OP=J?AŻ I=GA = >ECż @AHE>AN=PA PQNJż >AEJC OQNA PK OAP PDA ?HQ> OKHE@HU =P PDA PKL ƑbelowƒŻ DNKQCD EIL=?Pż OSEJC QL KJ PDA >=HH OHECDPHUż GAALEJC IU QLLAN >K@U >=?GŻ K =DA=@ż OSEJC =O D=N@ =O UKQ ?=J SDEHA OP=UEJC EJ >=H=J?AŻ DEO EO JK PEIA PK SEIL KQPƀ

2&# 1*',%#0

2&# 322#0 !32

CONTROL BALL FLIGHT WITH A PIERCING DRAW

FIT THE RIGHT SHOT INTO THE FAIRWAY

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2&# +#,2 * 1'"#

+ shirt, hat, glove

4 DRIVING SECRETS TO WIN YOUR MATCHES

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‘NOTHING WEARS DOWN AN OPPONENT LIKE SEEING YOUR BALL CONSISTENTLY IN THE FAIRWAY.’

JIMMY LIKES THE

WHY I USED MY LOB WEDGE TO WIN MY FIRST MAJOR— AND WHY I ALWAYS DO 7 ( ' + + 7 5 * ) # 0

andy lyons/getty images

O

N THE FINAL HOLE of the US PGA

Championship in July, I left myself in the one place I didn’t want to be: shortsided in deep rough with a bunker between me and the ag. But there was never a question which club I was going to use from there to set up a two-putt and the biggest win of my life: my 60-degree lob wedge.

I’m unconventional in that I use my lob wedge for every short-game shot. I learned this from my dad, who was a scratch player.

Dad’s thinking was: Why try to get good at chipping with four or ďŹ ve dierent clubs when it’s easier to master just one? My coach, Butch Harmon, says I’m the only tour player

he’s ever taught who uses this approach, but Butch hasn’t tried to change me because I’ve become good at depending on my 60. His only advice has been to swing through to the target more, instead of cutting across the ball.

On that last hole at Baltusrol, I hit a op shot [left]. My keys are to stand square, lay the face open, then think hands and speed as I slide the bounce of the wedge under the ball, using a wristy action to let the clubhead pass my hands. If I’m not so concerned with spin and just want the ball to land soft, I’ll deaden the shot by hitting the ball towards the toe.

If I want a low runner, or a shot where another player might use an 8 or 9-iron, I set

up aimed a hair right of my target and hit what feels like a baby hook. I move my hands forward at address to shut the clubface, then swing at the ball from the inside, keeping my wrist angle set and ďŹ rm through the shot.

For everything in between – the basic chips and pitches – I hardly manipulate the club.

I’m just presenting the wedge’s loft at impact by using a simple motion similar to a putt. To hit it higher or lower, I adjust ball position or add a hint of wrist through impact.

I like to be creative on every greenside shot.

Making the process about club choice would probably feel too mechanical to me.

Just give me my 60. —WITH MAX ADLER

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5 big misses &by hank howhaneyto fix them Ͳ If you want to play better golf and lower your handicap, you need a plan. A goal without a plan is just a dream, and that’s where most people end up with their games. They’re dreaming. Ͳ Instead, how about taking action and figuring out what it’s going to take to improve? That process starts with identifying your biggest miss – the one that causes the

worst problems round after round. Unless you address that issue now, you’re going to be pretty much the same golfer next summer as you are today. Ͳ Here we’re going to talk about five of the common big misses in golf, and what you can do to overcome each of them. Fix your big miss and stay out of trouble, and your scores will drop fast. – WITH MATTHEW RUDY

1 +'11 the dreaded shank $'6 maintain your distance from the ball First, let’s blow up the major misconception about the shot PD=P CKAO ^UEJC HKS =J@ NECDPĹť P EOJĆ›P >A?=QOA UKQ DEP PDA >=HH KY PDA PKAĹť OD=JG ?KIAO BNKI PDA KLLKOEPA LNK>HAIĹ˝ DEPPEJC KY PDA DKOAHĹť P ?=J D=LLAJ BKN = BAS NA=OKJOĹť DA IKOP ?KIIKJ KJA EO SDAJ UKQĆ›NA PKK ?HKOA PK PDA >=HHĹź SDAPDAN UKQ OP=NP KQP PD=P S=U KN UKQ B=HH PKS=N@O PDA >=HH KJ PDA @KSJOSEJCĹť KQ =HOK ?KQH@ >A OSEJCEJC PKK IQ?D =NKQJ@ UKQN >K@U EJ PDA >=?GOSEJCĹź SDE?D ?=J I=GA UKQ OSEJC KQPS=N@ PKK IQ?D KJ PDA @KSJOSEJCĹź ATLKOEJC PDA DKOAH PK PDA >=HHĹť SK MQE?G [TAOĹ˝ ENOPĹź ?DA?G PD=P UKQ OP=U EJ UKQN =@@NAOO LKOPQNA =O UKQ OSEJC PDNKQCD >U QOEJC UKQN OD=@KSĹť AP QL OK UKQN OD=@KS EO A=OU PK OLKP =J@ P=GA OKIA OSEJCOĹź I=GEJC OQNA UKQ =NAJĆ›P CAPPEJC ?HKOAN PK PDA >=HH SEPD UKQN >K@U KN DA=@ =O UKQ OSEJCĹť A?KJ@Ĺź LQP = DA=@?KRAN FQOP KQPOE@A PDA >=HH =J@ DEP ODKPO SEPDKQP >QILEJC PDA DA=@?KRANĹť DAOA @NEHHO SEHH ODKS UKQ EJOP=JPHU PD=P UKQĆ›NA @KEJC PDA NECDP Ć?KN SNKJCĆ? PDEJCĹť

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Photographs by J.D. Cuban

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 169

‘in pitching, if your hands r ace ahe ad on the d ownswing, you’ll struggle to make go od contact.’

2 +'11 the big driver slice $'6 swing the arms faster than the hips NERANO ?=QOA PDA >ECCAOP IEOOAOż HEPAN=HHU =J@ [CQN=PERAHUŻ PƛO PDA ?HQ> PD=P CKAO PDA B=NPDAOP =J@ D=O PDA HA=OP HK_ż OK EP LNK@Q?AO PDA >ECCAOP ?QNRAOŻ J@ B=EHEJC PK CAP KY PDA PAA causes the worst problems with scoring because you’re playing catch-up the rest of the hole.

Slicing is the common miss for average players, and it happens because at impact the face is open relative to the L=PD KB PDA OSEJCŻ DA B=OPAOP S=U PK ?D=JCA PD=P EO PK BAAH HEGA your body is slowing down through impact while you speed up PDA NAHA=OA KB PDA ?HQ>DA=@ SEPD UKQN D=J@O =J@ =NIOŻ DEO SEHH get the face closing like it is in this photograph [HA_].

B UKQƛNA [CDPEJC PDA KLLKOEPA LNK>HAI ƅ = DKKG ƅ =LLHU PDA KLLKOEPA [TŻ K GAAL PDA ?HQ>B=?A BNKI ?HKOEJC OK IQ?D through impact, feel like your body is rotating faster into the follow-through. Another good thought is to speed up your lead =NI PDNKQCD EIL=?PŻ D=PƛHH DAHL DKH@ PDA B=?A IKNA KLAJŻ

3 +'11 the fat iron shot $'6 find out if you’re steep or shallow Fat shots can be tough to diagnose because they can happen from a steep angle of attack (smashing into the ground) or a very shallow one (hitting the ground too early).

If you tend to take big divots, practise holding the clubhead KY PDA CNKQJ@ =J@ I=GEJC OSEJCO HEGA UKQ SKQH@ PK DEP = >=OA>=HH KN = CKHB ODKP KY = RANU DECD PAAŻ D=P SEHH LNKIKPA = more around-the-body versus up-and-down swing.

If you tend to hit fat shots with a shallow angle of attack – a common mistake with longer clubs like hybrids and fairway woods – it’s happening because the bottom of your swing is >ADEJ@ PDA >=HHŻ K [T PDEOż BK?QO KJ ODE_EJC PK UKQN BNKJP BKKP as you start the downswing [right] and swinging all the way =NKQJ@ OK UKQN ?DAOP EO B=?EJC PDA P=NCAP =P PDA [JEODŻ DA bottom of your swing arc will move forward, and your swing direction will be more toward the target than inside-out.

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4 +'11 inconsistent pitching $'6 use the bounce on your sand wedge Consistency and forgiveness are the two most important factors you want to have in your greenside game. If you can hit the same shot every time, you’ll get great at controlling your distance. And if you use the club the way it was designed, the bounce on the bottom of the clubhead will help you with forgiveness. It’ll slide through the grass and help you produce a good shot even when you don’t make perfect contact.

On pitch shots, the sand wedge is usually your best choice.

P D=O LHAJPU KB HK_ =J@ BKNCERAJAOO >QEHP NECDP EJŻ K I=GA the bounce work, open the face slightly at address. Set your SAECDP AMQ=HHU >APSAAJ UKQN BAAPż =J@ @KJƛP =NPE[?E=HHU J=NNKS your stance – that moves your centre forward and promotes a steep swing. Instead, make a downswing that feels as if you’re PDNKSEJC PDA ?HQ> OK PDA DA=@ =J@ PDA OD=_ CAP PK PDA >=HH =P the same time. If your hands get way ahead, the club’s leading edge will dig, and you’ll struggle to make solid contact.

5 +'11 the putting yips $'6 experiment with grips – and gripping Numbers don’t lie. For more than 10 years, we tested thousands of players in my schools and found that 26 per cent had some kind of yip problem in their putting. They weren’t in full control of the putterface or acceleration through impact.

In most cases, it’s something relatively easy to handle.

DA UEL LNK>HAI K_AJ ?KIAO EJ KJA D=J@ KN PDA KPDAN KJ the grip. Simply changing how that hand holds the club – by moving to a claw grip, for example [rightƒ ƅ ?=J K_AJ OKHRA the problem. There are variations on the claw, and the right one for you is the one that reduces the yip and gives you the best feel.

You also might try replacing the grip on your putter with = B=PPAN KJAż SDE?D CERAO = @EYANAJP BAAH EJ UKQN D=J@O =J@ reduces hand action through the putt. You see them all over the US PGA Tour – and it isn’t because those guys have big hands. Point is, don’t be afraid to change things up.

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Play Your Best Step by Step by David Leadbetter

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You’re playing in an event being decided by a chip-off. What do you hope for? Ͳ Cushy lie in the rough: 36% Ͳ 8-iron bump-and-run: 33% Ͳ Pitch over sand: 26% Ͳ Match of cards instead: 5%

Automatic Chipping Get it close by keeping the wrists firm F YOU’RE struggling to consistently hit good chip shots, you might want to copy the simple technique many pros use. They eliminate extraneous handand-wrist action to create a more reliable chipping motion.

This “wristless” shot is so easy to execute, I did it without crushing one of my trademark hats [above]. Learn to do it in four simple steps.

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David Leadbetter operates 25 golf academies worldwide.

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1. NARROW YOUR STANCE

2. SWING THE TRIANGLE BACK

3. STAYING CONNECTED

4. QUIET YOUR HANDS

Ͳ Set up with your body aligned slightly left of the target and your weight favouring your front foot. The key adjustment here is to stand with your feet close together.

That helps prevent excess body motion, which could lead to poor contact.

Ͳ Take note of the triangular shape formed by your arms and chest at address. When you make a backswing, your goal should be to preserve that triangle by turning your chest away from the target.

Ͳ Keep the upper part of your right arm touching the side of your chest throughout the stroke. But make sure you don’t become tense or stiff. This connection will help you control the swing.

Ͳ Rotate your chest towards the target as your hands and wrists stay virtually inactive. The longer the chip, the more aggressively you should rotate.

Control distance by the speed of your turn, not the length of your swing.

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

Photograph by J.D. Cuban

illustrations: todd detwiler • jos a. bank: shirt • callaway: glove • royal albatross: shoes • rolex: watch • house of fleming: belt

SOURCE: GOLF DIGEST READERS

Strategy by Jack Nicklaus Play Your Best

“There’s often a side where you absolutely cannot miss.”

Pick Your Punch A bowl-shape green serves several options

FEELING STRONG?

HE punchbowl green is a classic design feature that you see scattered all over the world. The 16th at National Golf Links of America in New York has one of the more famous on this side of the pond. The punchbowl name is plainly descriptive: The green is the bottom, and rising high on three – or maybe all four – sides is a round collar that collects wayward shots and funnels them onto the green.

Originally, greens were built like this to better retain moisture for the grass to stay hydrated. The Scots and Irish looked for natural depressions in the land where rainfall gathered and whipping winds and the rising sun didn’t dry the ground as quickly. Nowadays, irrigation systems are so good that we really just build greens like this for fun.

The par-4 sixth at Dismal River [illustrated] in Mullen, Nebraska, is one of my favourite punchbowl greens that I’ve designed. Let me walk you through how to handle one.

—WITH MAX ADLER

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If you’re downwind, or maybe you’ve been pumping iron, this green can be reached with the tee shot. But consider if executing 30 or 40-metre pitches or bunker shots to an elevated green is a strength of your game.

That’s where you risk leaving your ball. Most golfers find it easier to make a full swing into the green.

JUST A WEDGE Day to day, this is the ideal place to put the tee shot. You’ll have a wedge and a prime opportunity to knock one close. The bunkers let of the green are the most severe, so favour going right and long.

Stray a little in those directions, and your ball will likely kick down onto the green.

With punchbowls, there’s oten a side where you absolutely cannot miss and two where the misses aren’t too bad.

BEST SPOT FOR SHORTER HITTERS Hitting your tee shot here is the play if you don’t feel comfortable carrying a drive to the second fairway. As a shorter hitter, don’t abandon your sound judgment by going for the green with the next shot. There’s too much trouble around this green to be coming at it with anything other than a short iron or wedge. Instead, lay one short of the fairway bunker and then pitch on. The concave shape of the green should help it nestle close.

Illustration by Chris O’Riley

Since I designed Dismal River and we opened it in 2006, Mother Nature has altered the look and play of some of the holes. As strong winds sweep across these rolling hills, bunkers oten change size and shape. The bunkering on this sixth hole is a perfect example. I always like to say that golf courses evolve over time; the clock just ticks a little faster at places like Dismal River. december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 173

jim mandeville/ the nickl aus companies

designs are living things

Play Your Best Golf Fit by Lauren Sanft

Lauren Sant is a Titleist-certified golf fitness instructor and director of Golf Fitness Co. laurensant.com.au

Flexibility VS Strength The Great Debate: Which is more important? ’M OFTEN asked by golfers, “Is flexibility or strength more important to improve my swing? Which one should I work on to make me hit the ball farther?” Or they quiz me, “What should I focus on to help my lower back injury?”

These are all good questions and due to masses of information out there – often

I

conflicting – it can be hard to know what sort of exercises you should be doing to achieve results in your game. To be ‘golffit’, your body needs to be able to achieve certain positions and this comes from a combination of both flexibility and strength.

Parts of the body are designed to be stable and strong and other parts are designed to

be flexible and mobile. Achieving the right balance will give you the ability to get into the positions critical to be a good player. In addition to swinging the club well, you’ll generate more power and will have a better chance at avoiding injury.

Below is LPGA Tour player, Jess Korda whose swing mechanics and overall athleticism is elite. A few key positions are shown and the strength/mobility relationship to achieving each position is also noted. Some parts of the body are required to be both strong and mobile.

Position achieved?

Arms high above head What is strong?

Back, shoulders What is mobile?

Chest, shoulders

Position achieved?

A good upper body coil Position achieved?

A fully rotated and loaded hip

What is strong?

Shoulders, core What is mobile?

Thoracic spine, shoulders

What is mobile?

Hips, ankles

If you are finding it challenging to hit the right positions in your swing, it’s likely you possess physical limitations and would benefit from some specific corrective strength and flexibility exercises. Book in with a golf fitness trainer and feel the improvements in your game.

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GETTY IMAGES: STANLEY CHOU / STRINGER

What is strong?

Legs, glutes, core

Local Lessons by Jason Laws Play Your Best

• Jason Laws is the NSW PGA Teaching Professional of the Year

What Not To Do The five most common mistakes I saw this year. Do you make them, too?

HE beauty of being a golf coach is I know there is always something my student and I can work on.

This year I saw literally thousands of golf swings and not one of them couldn’t be improved in some way, shape or form.

With the swing made up of so many components, it can be difficult for everyday amateurs to master the lot in one, single movement. What’s even harder for amateurs is avoiding little mistakes creeping in, quite common if they’re focussing too hard on specific areas. But there’s ways to prevent fundamental errors ruining your form. Here are the five most common errors I saw this year.

1. Most amateurs have their weight too much in their heels at address. This creates pour posture and sequence. It’s important to position your weight in the

GETTY IMAGES: CHRIS CONDON / CONTRIBUTOR

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centre of your feet at address.

2. So many players are shifting their weight while making a basic short chip shot.

Instead, they should be leaving it on their left side (for right-handers).

3. The amount of people who came to me and said they bought a driver off the shelf and were not fitting by their local PGA professional was mind-boggling. A lot of players choose to use the same driver as their mates instead of getting the right loft, shaft and length. Not getting fitted for your clubs in this day and age is the No.1 mistake anyone can make.

4. I couldn’t tell you how many club members I saw practising with no purpose. Every day they just hit balls aimlessly instead of simulating their practice sessions to imitate the rounds they were about to play. To really

maximise your improvement, and ultimately your enjoyment in the game, get your coach to tailor a practice program so you can take that correct feel and process to the course. With some dedication and commitment, you will be surprised at how many shots you will save. It’s about practising smarter, not harder.

5. The final mistake I saw made repeatedly in 2016 is arguably one of the most important in golf – players not stretching or warming up prior to their round. Stretching before golf should be automatic … muscle memory, like putting your seatbelt on before driving your car.

Make it your New Year’s resolution to arrive at the course an hour before your tee time so you can stretch properly, and warm up by simulating your round on the range. And if you need more advice, ask your local PGA pro. They’re there to help.

If you have any questions, email me at jason@jasonlawsgolf.com

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 175

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Long Game Play Your Best

#"'2#" 7 .#2#0 +-00'!#

Hittin’ It Great A few keys for getting from tee to green

BY RICKIE FOWLER

HE past couple seasons I’ve hit the ball more solidly than ever.

Instead of constantly trying different swing thoughts, I’ve worked with Butch Harmon to really focus my approach.

With my posture at address, I always confirm that my chin is high. If your chin is stuck on your chest, there’s no room for the front shoulder to turn under it, so you’ll tend to tilt towards the target instead of loading onto your back leg. My thought on the backswing is to stay wide.

A lot of average golfers get hung up on keeping the right elbow tucked to the body.

At the top of the swing, all that matters with the right elbow, Butch says, is that it points down. Swing your hands as far from your body as feels comfortable, and then just let it rip.

– WITH MAX ADLER

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Photographs by Walter Iooss Jr.

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 177

Play Your Best Long Game

WAGGLE LIKE A PRO Being meticulous with your setup is important, but my top priority over the ball is to stay loose. If I sense tension in my forearms, neck or anywhere, I get rid of it with a gentle waggle of the club back and forth. See how my thumb is off the grip? Lightly re-gripping the club a bit as I rehearse the first part of my takeaway is my go-to trick. While waggling, I stare down my target, then glance at the ball to start my swing. Struggling golfers tend to do the opposite: They’ll stare at the ball, growing tense, and glance at the target with no real commitment to the shot.

STAY DOWN AND EXTEND Through the ball, I think about maintaining the spine angle I started with at address. This helps my feet stay heavy and quiet. With a stable base, I can just fire my right side through the shot.

To me, it kind of feels like I’m throwing the club and my right arm in a straight line at the target [let]. In pro-ams, probably the most common fault I see is guys standing up at impact. They straighten both legs and get up on their toes. Without great timing, this kills your consistency. You want to extend your arms, not your legs.

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“If I’ve made a good swing, my arms feel soft.”

CHECK YOUR BALANCE I already emphasised the importance of being tension-free at the start, and the same goes for the finish.

I know I’ve gone too hard if I’m straining – even slightly – to keep my balance as I watch the shot. Butch says the arms are the real indicators. It’s true, if I’ve made a good swing, my arms feel soft. If I’m out of balance, I’ll notice my arms flexing or straightening to save me from stumbling. Here, see how my right shoulder is closer to the target than my left, and the shaft is in a steady position behind my head? That’s a pure finish. I hit this one stiff.

Rickie Fowler is a Golf Digest Playing Editor and has three wins on the US PGA Tour. + PUMA shirt, pants, shoes, belt, hat TITLEIST glove

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6th

ON TOUR

STROKES GAINED, TEE TO GREEN It’s kind of complicated, but this stat means I gain about a shot and a half per round on my competitors thanks to better ballstriking.

Because the tour tracks every shot, they can calculate how each one compares to the field.

Suppose the average drive on a given par 4 is 216 metres in the first cut of rough, and from there the average is three shots to hole out (a par). If I bust a drive 300m down the middle, this is a zone where the field might be averaging 2.7 strokes to hole out. That drive has increased my chance of making birdie by 0.3 shots. Similarly, a 9-iron to 10 feet instead of 20 is a partial gain, because we make that shorter putt more often.

Golf’s about hitting more strong shots than weak ones. This stat quantifies it.

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Play Your Best Putting Tips by Mark Officer

=NG d?AN has been a PGA member for more than 30 years and offers putting instruction at perfectstroke.org and puttingdoctortoyou.com

Good putts come from a proper and effective set-up O EXECUTE a putting stroke correctly and consistently, it is vital you set up to the putt properly with a putter that fits that set-up.

There are many different aspects to a putting stroke that interrelate and to achieve any degree of success they must complement each other.

First and foremost, a player needs to be able to accurately read the green or estimate the break of a putt caused by any slope and then be able to aim appropriately to that read.

The stroke mechanics then need to match the putter face aiming at address to ensure that the face can return to the ball squarely to the intended starting line. Lastly, the putt needs to be hit at the appropriate speed to match the estimated green read, the aim and stroke mechanics. There are some key checkpoints to enable you to get the best results on the green.

is an ideal way to check this in position, or perhaps a friend can video your set up check the shoulder alignment with a clubshaft or aiming stick.

1. The ďŹ rst element I consider in ďŹ tting a putter and or getting a player into a suitable setup position relates to the aiming of the putter face. Eye position is important. My preference is to have the eyes directly over the ball or perhaps slightly inside [see inset] but never outside or too far over the target line.

To check this you can set up in your putting posture with a ball sitting on a mirror. Or you could use an elevated string line directly over the ball or take a video from down the target line. With the advent of smart phones you can now take very effective own videos of your swing and perhaps use software to analyse a swing or putting stroke. Swing Catalyst offers free software for golf swing analysis that can be downloaded from the app store.

Remember, if your eyes are over the ball it will help in aiming the putter head. To help with the stroke path direction at impact it is important to have good body alignments that are close to parallel to the intended starting line. For a right-handed player the feet, knees, hips, arms and shoulders should all be parallel to the target line and actually be aiming slightly left. In particular the shoulder alignment can have an effect on stroke path if they are open or closed. Open shoulders at address will tend to make the putter path go to the outside on the backstroke and across in the forward stroke. A mirror on the ground

2. The next area to reference is the posture, balance and arm hang. Almost all good putters will be in balance over their feet with a fairly straight spine bent from the hips. The backside should feel like it is pushing out and the top of the spine in the neck area almost horizontal allowing the players head to look directly down at the ball. This relaxed head position will enable the golfer to swivel their head to look along the target rather than rotate or turn the head, which can give a distorted view of where the hole or target line is.

If you are using video software to analyse the stroke, you could use the angle drawing tool to check the amount of spine angle bend.

If the angle is measured from the back of a player's heel through to the belt line on their backside and then to top of the neck almost all good putters fall into the same parameters.

This angle is between 110 and 120 degrees and will generally help to facilitate a shoulder plane that is not too flat, causing a too rounded stroke with excessive face rotation, or too much of a rocking-type shoulder action that will also get the stroke out of plane with under rotation of the face.

Since the introduction of technology such as the SAM PuttLab, which uses ultrasound to measure the movement of the putter head during the stroke, we have learned the face angle relative to the path during stroke

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is crucial. Ideally, face angle will be square to the arc of the stroke, making it easier to return the putter face to the ball squarely.

Another commonality with good putters is that they will usually have their forearms and shaft in a straight line at address when viewed down or along the target line. It is therefore important to have the right lie angle of the putter to obtain this relationship.

The most common mistakes putting instructors will see with their students in setup is use of a putter that is too long or with a lie angle too at, a posture where the spine angle is too upright or they they stand too far away from the ball. Next time you see golf telecast on TV, take note when you see player’s putting of their head and eye positioning, their spine angle bend and proximity to the ball.

3. Finally, to produce the best roll, the putter at impact should be rising up at an angle greater than or equal to the dynamic loft. If the putter head is rising at 3 degrees and the putter has 2 degrees of dynamic loft, there will be topsin applied to the ball. If there is more loft than rise angle the ball with have backspin.

A ball position located midway between the centre of the stance and the lead foot will help to provide a putter head with a positive rise angle. A ball positioned in the middle of the stance with weight favouring the target side may produce backspin and therefore greater opportunity for the ball to bounce and go offline.

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Coolum Caprice

Magnolia Lane

LOVE YOUR GOLF?

STAY AND PLAY

Love Coolum Caprice, Sunshine Coast.

Stay 4 nights Play 3 courses. Inc. Green fees + cart.

With views over the 9th green of the magnificent Twin Waters golf club, our spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments are the perfect place for your next golfing getaway. You can play your rounds on any of our recommended courses on the Sunshine Coast and still have time to enjoy the relaxing beaches and shopping close by.

$495 per person Palmer Resort, Twin Waters, Noosa Springs, Club Pelican & more **Based on 4 people. Conditions apply** From 2 people to larger groups, please contact Tracey for a package to suit your needs

1770 David Low Way, Coolum Beach QLD 4573 relax@coolumcaprice.com.au | 07 5446 2177 www.coolumcaprice.com.au

2 Nights, one course from $320pp 4 Nights, three courses from $610pp 7 Nights, five courses from $980pp

179 Ocean Drive, Twin Waters, Queensland 4564 info@thewoods.com.au | 07 5448 8777 www.magnolialane.com.au

Bribie Island THE ULTIMATE GOLFING DESTINATION Play both Queensland’s renowned Bribie Island Sand-Belt courses with our Exclusive Play and Stay Packages.

Packages from $98.00pp per night for 4 night’s stay.

To view all packages and options, please visit fairwaysretreat.com.au or call 07 3400 2100 for enquiries and bookings.

Bribie Island, QLD, 4507 | www.fairwaysretreat.com.au | www.phgcc.com.au | www.bribiegolf.com.au

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 183

GOLFER'S

LOCKER ROOM TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL MARK TURJMAN 02 8188 3578

VICTORIA

VICTORIA

Golfers Resort Yarrawonga

GLENN MC CULLY Golf S ls

Luxury self contained accommodation 2-7 Day Golf Packages Summer and Winter specials

3 and 5 Day Schools Group, Private & Beginner Formats from $525 pp. twin share

www.golfersresort.com.au

www.golfersresort.com.au

info@golfersresort.com.au 03 5744 1994

info@golfersresort.com.au 03 5744 1994

4.5 star rated property only a short walk to quirky cafes, beaches & unique shopping.

Just a short drive to Bellarines great golf courses (e.g. Barwon Heads and Thirteenth Beach - 5 min, The Sands, Curlewis andPt Lonsdale - 15 min) + wineries, farm gates, etc..

Studio, 1, 2 3 & 4 bedroom FSC accommodation. From budget to luxury.

Groups, couples, families 3 Geelong Road, Barwon Heads P 03 5254 1066 or M 0417 543336

www.SeahavenVillage.com.au 184

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LOCKER ROOM PLEASE CALL MARK TURJMAN 02 8188 3578

Put some spring in your game!

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www.kingcaddy.com.au december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 185

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LOCKER ROOM PLEASE CALL MARK TURJMAN 02 8188 3578

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australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

Personalised Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast Golf Tours THE HARDEST THING YOU WILL HAVE TO DO IS WALK OFF THE PLANE

www.golfoz.com.au Tel: (07) 5575 8500

How I Went Mental and Dropped 5 Shots t 68 years of age and having played golf on and off most of his life, Mildura golfer Peter George had never really considered the importance of the mental game.

A

would execute the stroke with perfection.�

That was until he read about the revolutionary Pro Golf IQ mind-coaching program and how it has assisted amateur golfers worldwide to improve their game using powerful audio sessions from the comfort of their own home.

“Pete Nicholson replied advising me to stay 100% committed to the program, just relax and there could be some more surprises.�

Peter says “I went to Pro Golf IQ website and watched the information video about how the Pro golfer thinks on the course compared to amateurs and it just clicked‌I immediately realised I had been missing out on one of the most important parts of the game.â€? “I’m a Member at Riverside Golf Club in Mildura, Victoria and play 3 times per week. With my favourite club, a Taylor-made M1 driver, my tee-shots have always been pretty good along with putting. However, B MBDL PG DPOmEFODF BOE GPDVT XJUI MPOH JSPOT BOE UIF short game had always kept my handicap hovering around 21.â€?

He went on “Upon learning how Pro Golf IQ has helped other golfers I felt an investment of less than 100 bucks would be worth a try, and, as the program is so simple to use it sounded like the easiest golf training ever!�

HOW IT WORKS Pete Nicholson, Pro Golf IQ Director, said “Yes, the program is straightforward and very effective for golfers of all standards. Simply put on headphones, lie back and relax as you let the audio sessions coach your mind to think the same way as the worlds top

“I emailed the guys at Pro Golf IQ exclaiming ‘WOW in just 3 weeks I have gone from 21 down to 18! I wonder how far it will come down in 5 weeks?’�

DROPPING 5 SHOTS “What happened next was nothing short of miraculous as my chipping yips disappeared and my precision around the greens dropped my handicap to 16‌all in just over 5-weeksâ€?

3UR *ROI ,4 'LUHFWRU 3HWH 1LFKROVRQ ZLWK 0LOGXUD¡V 3HWHU *HRUJH

players.� He added “Just listening for half an hour, 3 times per week is all that’s required for you to eradicate bad habits, learn how to ignore distractions and hazards while gaining consistency throughout the whole round�

“Then out of the blue I received a call from the team at the Genesis Golf Link Cup advising that my last 4 scorecards of 5 over, 42, 41 and 37 Stableford points had won a prize of a dozen balls� /JDIPMTPO BTLFE 1FUFS i8IBU EP ZPVS HPMmOH NBUFT think?� He replied “They ask ‘what are you doing differently, we’ve never seen you play so well!�

Peter George started the program late June and after watching the introduction video via the Members Area PO IJT DPNQVUFS UIFO DPNNFODFE MJTUFOJOH UP UIF mSTU PG UIF mWF EJGGFSFOU XFFLMZ BVEJP TFTTJPOT

“I’m now looking forward to using the supplementary sessions Enforcer, Putting IQ, Driving IQ and Pitching IQ and have set myself a target to get down to 12 over the coming months�

EARLY RESULTS i5IF mSTU UIJOH * OPUJDFE w IF TBJE iXBT UIF GFFMJOH PG relaxation on the tee-box. During the initial week of using the Pro Golf IQ techniques I felt calm and full of belief in my game. I had found the Zone that you hear the Pros talk about.�

When asked by the Pro Golf IQ Team how he would sum up the program, Peter said “That’s simple‌IT WORKS!â€?

“By the middle of week 3 I was using my imagination to visualise each shot in my minds-eye and my body

AUSTRALIAN GOLF DIGEST readers can score a great deal on Pro Golf IQ for just $97 553 *R WR ZZZ SURJROĂ€T FRP GLJHVW 25 FDOO 3HWH 1LFKROVRQ

december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 187

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LOCKER ROOM PLEASE CALL MARK TURJMAN 02 8188 3578

AVGA

TOURS FOR 2017

ESCORTED GOLF HOLIDAYS FOR MEN & LADY GOLFERS OVER 50 BROCHURES NOW AVAILABLE ON WEBSITE:

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1 MID NORTH ISLAND 03 to 11 February 2017 Visiting beautiful Taupo and Napier the main attractions are the wonderful golf courses. Playing Kinloch, Wairakei and two rounds at Cape Kidnappers Land only share twin from $3,826 per golfer

QUEENSTOWN TOUR ONE 11 to 18 February 2017 QUEENSTOWN TOUR TWO 18 to 25 February 2017 Great golf in Queenstown playing Millbrook, The Hills, Queenstown and Jacks Point courses. Choice of hotel type rooms or studios with kitchenette and laundry.

Land only share twin from $2,825 per golfer * VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY

CAPE KIDNAPPERS

HUA HIN, Thailand 12 – 22 March 2017 10 nights and 7 rounds of golf in this beautiful seaside location Combine with Vietnam Tour Land only share twin from $3,077 per golfer

DANANG, Vietnam 22 March – 29 March Amazing golf courses in this popular destination. 7 nights accommodation and 5 rounds of golf Land only share twin from $2,629 per golfer

RACV ROYAL PINES

KUNMING, CHINA 30th March – 08 April Kunming is an amazing destination with great golf courses 2 rounds in Kunming before travelling to Spring City for 4 rounds (previously No 1 & 2 courses in China) Land only share twin $3,359 per golfer

AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SENIORS GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP – RACV ROYAL PINES, GOLD COAST, QUEENSLAND 07 – 13 MAY 2017 Mark these dates in your diary for our Championships held over 5 days of golf at RACV Royal Pines Resort - Full accommodation packages or golf & functions only.

Land only share twin from $ 1,540 per golfer Golf & functions only from $ 980 per golfer

DANANG GOLF CLUB

Other 2017 tours – See website for brochures JUNE 11 TO 24 16 TO 25 JULY 26 JULY TO 04 AUGUST

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS (BIG ISLAND & MAUI) SUNSHINE COAST TOUR ONE SUNSHINE COAST TOUR TWO

SHOULD YOU REQUIRE FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT: AVGA GOLF, PO BOX 4078, ILLAWONG, NSW 2234 PHONE: 02 9541-4178 WEBSITE: WWW.AVGA.COM.AU EMAIL: JAN@AVGA.COM.AU ALL TOURS MANAGED AND OPERATED BY AVGA GOLF 188

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

116 westwood, is modern self contained ground floor accommodation, situated on Anderson's Bay, in Bridport, Tasmania. The home of Barnbougle Dunes & Barnbougle Lost Farm Links Golf Courses, which are only minutes away.

116 westwood, is suited to small golfing groups, couples traveling together, & golfing families. Having 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms, sleeping up to 8 guests, with a private walkway to the beach, close to walking tracks, local wineries & the village of Bridport. Relax on the large deck, with gas BBQ & outdoor dining.

Check out our website for all details, & bookings.

All you need to bring is your Golf Clubs!

Bridport Tasmania

Restful, private and luxurious...

Self-contained beachfront accommodation with a difference.

116 Westwood St, Bridport, Tas 7262 P: 03 6396 1140 M: 0407 961 143 www.bridportaccommodation.com.au

Goldfish Bar & Kitchen, Hunter Valley Cocktails, Wine, Beer, Lunch and Dinner 7 days a week Live music on the terrace Saturday nights from 9:30pm to late (Summer only) Goldfish Hunter Valley is many things: it’s an award-winning small bar, an acclaimed dining destination and a welcoming social hub.

Our beverage list boasts a great selection of original recipe cocktails, craft beers and an extensive local and international wine list.

Our dining style is unconventional in as much as the food is served to the table progressively and designed for sharing. Allow the kitchen to take control of your dining experience by selecting multiple dishes for the table to graze on.

Situated at Roche Estate – Corner of Broke and McDonald Roads, Pokolbin, NSW 2320 www.thegoldfish.com.au | infohv@thegoldfish.com.au | 02 4998 7688

Follow us on facebook and Instagram #goldfishbarandkitchen

To Advertise in the Specialising in Golf Course Real Estate

Locker Room please call or email

Mark Turjman Advertise your property on

www.golfinghomes.com.au Ph 0439 846 314

+61 2 8188 3578 mark@cmma.com.au december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 189

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LOCKER ROOM PLEASE CALL MARK TURJMAN 02 8188 3578

The Woods The Woods is two exquisite accommodation houses nestled in the Hunter Valley vineyard region offering style, seclusion and luxury. The Chapel House and The Folly House each have four queen size bedrooms with ensuites, sleeping up to four couples in each house, some with spa, a dreamy fountain courtyard and BBQ. Each house has ducted air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, a lounge with an open fire, wide screen LCD TV, Bose docking station and Foxtel, as well as a dining table for up to eight.

10% discount for midweek bookings, minimum 2 nights.

107 Halls Road, Pokolbin, NSW 2320 | info@thewoods.com.au | 0412 627 316 | www.thewoods.com.au

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australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

GOLF AROUND SRI LANKA IN STYLE

• Extravagant customised tours to meet your needs • Award winning golf courses • Luxury boutique hotels • Fluent English speaking tour guides Visit our website to view a selection of our packages and inclusions

1300 212 368 | www.21stcenturytours.com | mail@21stcenturytours.com

with P.G.A. Golf Professional Robert Stoc ck Including tickets to the final two day of the British Open at Royal Birkdaale

Belfast CRUISE INDUSTRY AWARDS AUSTRALIA

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Discover some of the British Isles most breathtaking golf coursess Brug uges es as you cruise through England, Ireland, Amsterdam and Br meed teee aboard the magnificent Celebrity Silhouette. Enjoy confirm times at six outstanding courses including the spectacular Royal o Portrush, Portmarnock and Old Head. Experience the best of golf as P.G.A. Golf Professional Robert Stock hosts you on thiss golf holiday of a lifetimee..

15 - 31 July, 2017

Travelrite International Email: heathmont@travelrite.com.au www.travelrite.com.au

Toll Free

1800 033 436 december 2016 | australiangolfdigest.com.au 191

Television Fox Sports TV Guide

DECEMBER 5 USPGA: World Challenge – Final Round, 3.00 am LIVE DECEMBER 6 The Golf Show, 7.30 pm DECEMBER 7 LET: Dubai Masters – Round 1, 7.30 pm LIVE DECEMBER 8 EPGA: Hong Kong Open - Round 1, 1.00 pm LIVE LET: Dubai Masters – Round 2, 7.30 pm LIVE DECEMBER 9 USPGA: Franklin Templeton Shootout – Round 1, 6.00 am LIVE EPGA: Hong Kong Open - Round 2, 1.00 pm LIVE LET: Dubai Masters – Round 3, 7.30 pm LIVE

Hero World Challenge December 2–5

DECEMBER 10 USPGA: Franklin Templeton Shootout – Round 2, 6.00 am LIVE

NOVEMBER 17

Round 3, 8.30 am DELAY

Round 1, 5.30 am LIVE

EPGA: Hong Kong Open - Round 3, 4.00 pm LIVE

EPGA: Tour Championship Round 1, 7.00 pm LIVE

EPGA: Tour Championship – Final Round, 7.00 pm LIVE

Asian Tour: Indian Open – Round 2, 6.00 pm LIVE

LET: Dubai Masters – Final Round, 7.30 pm LIVE

NOVEMBER 18

NOVEMBER 21

DECEMBER 11

USPGA: RSM Classic – Round 1, 5.30 am LIVE

USLPGA: Tour Championship – Final Round, 5.00 am LIVE

EPGA: Alfred Dunhill Championship – Round 2, 7.30 pm LIVE

USLPGA: Tour Championship – Round 1, 8.30 am DELAY

USPGA: RSM Classic – Final Round, 5.30 am LIVE

EPGA: Tour Championship Round 2, 7.00 pm LIVE

NOVEMBER 22

DECEMBER 3 USPGA: World Challenge – Round 2, 5.30 am LIVE

USPGA: Franklin Templeton Shootout – Final Round, 6.00 am LIVE

Asian Tour: Indian Open – Round 3, 6.00 pm LIVE

EPGA: Hong Kong Open – Final Round, 4.00 pm LIVE DECEMBER 12

The Golf Show, 7.30 pm

EPGA: Alfred Dunhill Championship – Round 3, 9.30 pm LIVE

DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 4

Asian Tour: Indian Open – Round 1, 6.00 pm LIVE

USPGA: World Challenge – Round 3, 4.00 am LIVE

EPGA: Alfred Dunhill Championship – Round 1, 7.30 pm LIVE

Asian Tour: Indian Open – Final Round, 6.00 pm LIVE

The Golf Show, 7.30 pm NOVEMBER 19 NOVEMBER 29 USPGA: RSM Classic – Round 2, 5.30 am LIVE USLPGA: Tour Championship – Round 2, 8.30 am DELAY GETTY IMAGES: SCOTT HALLERAN / STAFF

EPGA: Tour Championship Round 3, 7.00 pm LIVE NOVEMBER 20

192

USPGA: Father & Son Challenge - Round 1, 3.00 am LIVE

USPGA: RSM Classic – Round 3, 5.30 am LIVE

DECEMBER 2

USLPGA: Tour Championship –

USPGA: World Challenge –

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

EPGA: Alfred Dunhill Championship – Final Round, 9.00 pm LIVE

USPGA: Father & Son Challenge – Final Round, 6.00 am LIVE DECEMBER 13 The Golf Show, 7.30 pm DECEMBER 20 The Golf Show, 7.30 pm DECEMBER 27 The Golf Show, 7.30 pm

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www.australiangolfdigest.com.au

The Final Word Year in Review

E KICKED so many goals as a golfing nation this year.

Where do I start? I suppose at the very top. I can’t tell you how special it is to have the world No.1 and No.6 in Jason Day and Adam Scott. To top it off, both had great starts to the US PGA Tour season, with Adam winning twice and Jason notching three victories.

Then we’ve got some youngsters I had the pleasure of spending a few weeks with in Rio – Minjee Lee and Su HyunOh [right]. These incredibly talented women are both plying their trade so well on the LPGA Tour, trying to fill the shoes of the great Karrie Webb. And Minjee is performing particularly well, capturing her third LPGA Tour title in October.

I was so excited to see Curtis Luck win the US Amateur and the Asia Pacific Amateur, and the Aussie team claiming the World Amateur Team Championship by 19 shots was right up there, too. But just when I thought the year was winding down, Brett Coletta won the Queensland Open as

W

194

an amateur – something that hasn’t been done since Stuart Appleby in 1991.

It’s hard to name a particular highlight of 2016, but I think Marcus Fraser becoming the Olympic course-record holder stands out for me. I said to him in Rio, “Marcus, you’re going to go home and the whole sporting public is going to know you as the Olympic course-record holder who finished fifth for Australia. Do you know what an achievement that is?”

As the captain, to see our men’s and women’s teams perform so admirably was emotional. Golf’s return to the Olympics was so was far above my expectations – I had a great time with both teams and it really was an unbelievable three weeks in my life.

Our elite crop of golfers are performing so well at every level.

When you consider Min Woo Lee became the first Aussie to win the US Junior Amateur, we’ve got every tier covered – at least at the very elite level.

But it was somewhat disappointing to see our golfers who aren’t ranked at the top of

australiangolfdigest.com.au | december 2016

their categories not have their best seasons. It’d be nice to see our support cast play some better golf in 2017. For a country with two male golfers in the world's top 10, we only have three in the top 50 and four in the top 100. Because I know how talented those golfers outside the top 100 are – both men and women – my expectations for them are higher than perhaps

GETTY IMAGES: SCOTT HALLERAN / STAFF

A Green and Gold Year Australia’s Olympic golf team captain Ian Baker-Finch reflects on an enormous 12 months for Aussie golf

is fair. And it is tougher now to scale the world rankings because the depth of our sport is the best it’s ever been. The standard of golf is incredible.

There are so many good players coming out of Korea, China, Thailand, for example, that it really has become a world game. The percentage of foreign players on the US PGA Tour is the highest it’s ever been.

Having said that, we had Greg Chalmers earn his first ever US PGA Tour victory after 18 years on tour, and it was so great and emotional to see Aaron Baddeley win for the first time in five years – that was really emotional for Badds. I got to speak to both of them straight after their wins and it was amazing to see how much those victories meant to each of them.

I don’t think it’ll be long before we see Cam Smith, Nathan Holman and even Curtis Luck climb up the world rankings.

A big part of this success is due to the elite program here in Australia [see page 52].

We’ve been at the forefront of development for more than 20 years, since the days of Steve Bann, Dale Lynch, Ross Herbert and Vern McMillan others. We led the way – Appleby, Allenby and Ogilvy – they were so far ahead with their golf training.

I think Australia’s model is as good as it gets.

A lot of other countries are looking at us and our training techniques; admiring the way we nurture the best players.

Aussie golf looks to have an extremely bright future.

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