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A
T S
A red-hot Shubhankar Sharma of India fired 10 birdies for a remarkable 10-under-par 62 to claim a stunning two-shot victory Maybank Championship and bank a winner’s check for US$500,000! A new Asian star is born! He is the first Asian to win the Maybank Championship and second Asian Tour member to clinch the title.
14 SPECIAL FEATURE 24 A NEW GOLF PHENOM IS BORN!
24
The kid is just 15 years old and she is already a star! Atthaya Thitikul, displayed the maturity and courage of a seasoned player to take down three other players to win a play-off in a spell-binding win at the inaugural Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific which was played recently at the award winning Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore.
28 HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT SHAFTS? You’d be surprised how much the majority of golfers know about shafts. To many, they just don’t give a hoot! And then, there are some who just resign themselves to accept the fact that it is some fancy gizmo that connects with a club-head to serve as an extension for a golfer to swing at a golf ball. For the answers, ASIAN GOLF turned to one of the most highly regarded brands in shafts, Aerotech Golf and had a chat with its President, Chris Hilleary.
64 THE PGA TOUR – ITS PAYBACK TO COMMUNITY IS MASSIVE! On the PGA TOUR, winning isn’t everything. Beyond the push to be the best of the best and beyond the pursuit of golfing greatness, the PGA TOUR’s stars and the tournaments that form its annual schedule continue to join forces to go beyond the game and impact the lives of people in places where the TOUR visits.
28
38 46
64
REGULARS
6 EDITORIAL TEAM |
ISSUE
210
MARCH 2018
GAME-IMPROVEMENT 72 SOFT SHOES AND HAPPY FEET! This month’s golf tip from golf guru Tony Meechai shows you how you can improve your swing by working on your TEMPO through dancing. It may sound wacky, but we think you’ll thank Tony after you check out his tip.
78 PERFECT 10 In this ASIAN GOLF exclusive series, respected coach Iain Roberts is teaching golf novice Niall Donnelly to play the game in 10 one-hour sessions. Here, in week eight, Niall has some adventures in a bunker.
FASHION TREND
ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS
54 TOUR-S – IT’S LIKE HAVING A SUPERCAR ON YOUR FEET!
86 10 REASONS TO GET KIDS STARTED IN GOLF!
The Tour-S, FootJoy’s latest – a golf shoe that is so feature-packed, that is it bound to get golfers flocking to stores to try it out! The Tour-S is built like a supercar or at least its design philosophy shares a developmental platform that is not dissimilar to that of a supercar.
The future of golf really depends on how the golf industry handles the development of junior golf. It all comes down to how the industry invests in the future to create a population base to draw from to keep the industry in a healthy state.
EQUIPMENT FOCUS 38 THE MONEY CLUBS JUST GOT BETTER! For the 2018 season, Vokey has launched the revolutionary SM7 wedges which have already received critical acclaim from professionals who have put the clubs into play. Based on how quickly top professionals are switching to SM7, seems Vokey has done it again!
46 WHAT’S COMMON TO SUPER CARS AND SCOTTY CAMERON PUTTERS The famous Californian Scotty Cameron is back with his latest line of putters – the Scotty Cameron Select putters. Soon to be available worldwide, the new Select line features seven tourvalidated modern blade and mid-mallet models.
8 SHARED THOUGHTS: FROM PUBLISHER
92 EGULL SCORES BIG AT PGA SHOW! Golf course operators – listen up! eGull Pay is a GPS based technology solution that precisely tracks the number of holes a golfer plays and bills players just for what they played.
| 98 MERCHANDISE SHOW: THE ANNUAL CIRCUS IS OVER!
KNOW YOUR LETTER. HIT YOUR NUMBER.
NEW VOKEY DESIGN SM7 WEDGES. FIND OUT MORE AT TITLEIST.COM.SG
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Mike Sebastian Editor/Chief Executive Officer [mike@asiapacificgolfgroup.com]
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Sounds really good and one wonders why this can’t be the case. Given the current state of affairs with the golf industry, it’s not uncommon to hear about golf clubs reporting declining rounds played which invariably, has a very negative impact on bottom lines.
R
ather than seeking alternative formats of golf
If the industry wants to grow the game, the future is
to attract new players to the game, wouldn’t it
now. Get off your haunches and look at what manufacturers
make sense to look at existing golf equipment
like PING, TaylorMade and Callaway are doing to entice new
with a view towards making them super-
players to check out their friendly game improvement golf
friendly to handle and more playable?
clubs. And let’s not forget organisations like Titleist who
Hell yeah! We think so! The time has come for the
game’s bureaucrats to get realistic and pragmatic and give the license to equipment manufacturers to produce golf
are making golf balls go further, especially for the average golfer. For this editorial rant, we have opted to build our case
clubs that will not prove to be a challenge for beginners to
for friendlier clubs around the just launched PING G400 Max
handle.
driver and the G700m irons.
GOLF.com said this about the G400 Max, “PING’s engineering roots shine clearly in the new G400 Max. At 460cc, it offers major performance benefits that some players will find extremely appealing. It’s called “Max” because it takes everything built into the standard G400 to the very edge. Expect a high MOI, high stability and forgiveness, high launch, and for some, a heavy helPing of extra yards. With the addition of this model, there are very few players who couldn’t find a PING driver to fit their needs.” That’s not all. The review goes on to add, “The ultimate in forgiveness. High-launching, mid- to low-spin driver that’s the most stable Ping has ever produced. Provides a larger profile (460cc vs. 445cc) than the standard G400, giving some players added confidence at address and even more forgiveness on mis-hits.”
We popped over to PING’s regional representatives
To ensure his equipment designs helped golfers get
for their thoughts on this matter and this is how master
the most out of their ability, Solheim pioneered custom
fitter Jeffrey Bose responded, “New discoveries and
fitting in the late 1960s which allowed him to research and
technologies allow PING engineers to push the envelope
learn what was most important to help golfers improve.
and improve on earlier standards of forgiveness and game
“Since those early days, PING has built on that founda-
improvement.”
tion of using more forgiving golf equipment and advanced
“The G400 Max driver is the fourth and newest mem-
fitting tools and technologies to understand what golfers
ber of the G400 driver family. The first three members,
want from their equipment with the goal of ensuring we
i.e. G400 Standard, G400 LS Tec and G400 SF Tec, were
develop “game enjoyment” products,” the PING spokes-
introduced in the Fall of 2017 and quickly established the
man pointed out.
G400 Series as the longest, most forgiving drivers in the industry,” Bose explained. Turning to irons, Bose pointed out that the G700 with
We believe that the point has been made – against rigid conformity rules set by the United States Golf Association (USGA) and its counterpart across in Europe, the
its extreme perimeter weighting, lower centre of gravity
Royal and Ancient (R&A), manufacturers are working to
positioning, stronger lofts and a C300 maraging face with
make golf clubs friendlier and easy for players to handle.
machined grooves, all combine to produce the longest,
Now imagine if these stifling “conformity” rules are
straightest ball flights in PING irons ever.
relaxed by golf’s gate-keepers, how this will enable the
PING’s corporate headquarters from Arizona weighed
hand-cuffs to fly off and allow for golf clubs that will go a
in on this by revealing, “At PING, we’ve always placed
long way towards helping to make the game easier to play,
emphasis on making golf fun for golfers. Since the very
especially for high-handicappers and newcomers.
beginning, our founder, Karsten Solheim set out to make
The majority of manufacturers will be able to chip in
the game easier by engineering golf clubs that helped
immediately to join in this more relaxed environment to
golfers hit the ball longer, straighter and with more
help grow the game of golf.
consistency. A frustrated golfer himself until he designed
Let’s hope that the powers that be at the USGA and
his first putter, he realized improvements to equipment
the R&A sit up and do something really beneficial for golf.
would help golfers play better which would lead to more
Let’s hope that they will buy into the call – Now, Everyone
enjoyment of the game.”
Can Play Golf!
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This is a story that is just too good to pass up on. It qualifies to be a golf fairytale come true and a good one at that! ASIAN GOLF first saw this young player in action back in 2014 at the Asian Development Tour and his potential was immediately apparent. He displayed qualities that seemed to indicate that he had a burning desire to want to excel and win and this passion could be seen in his young eyes. We kept a watch on him and we were not surprised when he pulled up fourth in the Panasonic Indian Open in 2014, barely after a year of turning professional. He followed this with a third placing in The Bangladesh Open in 2016 and a third place in the Resorts World Manila Masters. He was already on his way and a few months later, this youngster exploded onto the international stage by running away with his first win on the European Tour – a commanding three-stroke victory at the Joburg Open in South Africa which gave him a shot at the 2018 Open Championship, his first major championship. He was not going to rest on his laurels and brought his winning form to Malaysia in February 2018 and pulled off a spectacular win at the US$3 million dollar MayBank Championship, Southeast Asia’s most prestigious and richest national tournament.
I’M OVER THE MOON. THE LAST TWO MONTHS HAVE BEEN FANTASTIC FOR ME.
I’M PLAYING
THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP THIS YEAR SO I CAN’T ASK FOR ANYTHING MORE. WHATEVER HAPPENED TODAY WAS FANTASTIC. IN
A
red-hot Shubhankar Sharma of India fired 10 bir
par 62 to claim a stunning two-shot victory at th
and bank a winner’s check for US$500,000! A ne
The talented Indian overcame a four-shot d
of uncanny skill to clinch his second European T
21-under-par 267 in windy conditions at the Saujana Golf and Co
his joint lowest score on the Asian Tour in relation to par. He shot
of the Joburg Open and a 62 on the last day of the 2016 Resorts W Sharma’s winning total of 21-under was the lowest winning
ship. His two-shot victory equals the largest winning margin in th
rdies for a remarkable 10-under-
he 2018 Maybank Championship
ew Asian star is born! eďŹ cit with a dominant display
Tour title with a winning total of untry Club. His ďŹ nal round 62 is
t a 61 (par 71) in the second round
World Manila Masters. score at the Maybank Champion-
he event.
SHARMA’S WIN AT THE MAYBANK CHAMPIONSHIPS HAS ROCKETED HIM PAST BIG NAME STARS LIKE RORY MCILROY AND TOMMY FLEETWOOD TO LEAD THE EUROPEAN TOUR’S RACE TO DUBAI RANKING AND HE ALSO SITS ATOP OF THE ASIAN TOURS 2018HABITAT FOR HUMANITY STANDINGS (FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE ORDER OF MERIT) – ALL IN ONE FELL SWOOP!
He is the first Asian to win the Maybank Championship and second Asian Tour member to clinch the title. The last time an Indian won in Malaysia was Anirban Lahiri in 2015. He went on to win the Order of Merit title in the same year. Sharma’s win at the MayBank Championships has rocketed him past big name stars like Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood to lead the European Tour’s Race To Dubai ranking and he also sits atop of the Asian Tours 2018 Habitat For Humanity standings (formerly known as the Order Of Merit) – all in one fell swoop! Immediately after his win in the Malaysian capital city of Kuala Lumpur, Sharma said, “I’m over the moon. The last two months have been fantastic for me. I’m playing in The Open championship this year so I can’t ask for anything more. Whatever happened today was fantastic.” Dripping from champagne that was showered upon him by Indian veteran star, Arjun Atwal, Sharma continued, “This win is great because it opens so many doors for me.” In a tribute to Asian players, the rising Indian superstar said, “More and more players are coming out of Asia and India. More Asian players are doing well. Especially me winning now will inspire some kids so we need more idols to inspire more people and give them the confidence that they can do it as well. Asian golf is in the right hands and it is doing very well. You will see more and more Asian players winning in Europe.” There is great camaraderie amongst Asia’s new stars and this provides these youngsters with an incredibly strong support network. “Gavin Green of Malaysia is
a great friend. We have known each other for three years now. He is a great
sphere because I was the only Indian there
guy and he is obviously a Maybank Ambassador and the reigning Order of
zone. The first wins are always special. I wa
Merit champion. He is a great guy and a great player. We’ve been good friends
of the Joburg Open so I was expected to wi
and he will also be playing on the European Tour so I will have some good
pionship - I had no expectations. I didn’t ev
16th leaderb
company.” Just imagine a trio of young champions – Sharma, Green and China’s Li HaoTong together with other youngsters like Thailand’s Phachara Khongwatmai and Jazz Janewattananond and a host of others knocking on the door to make a name for themselves. Asia is just brimming with red hot young talent and this can only get better for Asian golf. When did Sharma’s journey in golf start? According to him, “My dad was in the Indian army and we pretty much went all over the
MORE AND MORE PLAYERS ARE COMING OUT OF ASIA AND INDIA. MORE ASIAN PLAYERS ARE DOING WELL. ESPECIALLY ME WINNING NOW WILL INSPIRE SOME KIDS SO WE NEED MORE IDOLS TO INSPIRE MORE PEOPLE AND GIVE THEM THE CONFIDENCE THAT THEY CAN DO IT AS WELL.
ASIAN GOLF IS IN THE
place in India. I got into the game when I was
RIGHT HANDS AND IT IS DOING VERY
seven. I turned professional when I was still in
WELL.
school. My dad is one of the biggest reasons that I could take this step. He has been a great
YOU WILL SEE MORE AND MORE ASIAN PLAYERS WINNING IN EUROPE.
special.”
The Mal
Sharma beca
ing two roun
at the halfwa
within four s
contention o
hot front nin
He went
birdies on th
advantage o
tory in emph
win the third ship.
Looks li
inspiration. I’m 21 but this is my sixth season as a professional. I already feel
youngster who turned professional when h
like a veteran.”
schoolboy back in India.
Commenting on his first big win on the European Tour, Sharma recalled, “The Joburg Open was obviously my first win and it was a different atmo-
Shubhankar Sharma – All of Asia is ro your fellow young Asian stars!
. It was very calm. I was more in the
as leading going into the final round
n. It was not like the MayBank Cham-
en know I was going to win until the
board. Both wins are different but very
laysian win was a sort of surprise for
ause he was struggling in the opends where he was tied in 48th place
ay stage. A third round 66 put him
shots of the lead and he charged into n the final round when he got off to a e.
t into a big surge that gave him more
he 11, 13 and 14 holes for a two-shot
on the 16th hole as he romped to vic-
hatic style to become the first Asian to
d edition of the Maybank Champion-
ike there is no looking back for this e was just 17 years old and still a
oting for you. More power to you and
THE JOBURG OPEN WAS OBVIOUSLY MY FIRST WIN AND IT WAS A DIFFERENT ATMOSPHERE
I WAS THE ONLY INDIAN THERE. IT WAS VERY CALM. I WAS MORE IN THE ZONE. THE FIRST WINS ARE ALWAYS SPECIAL. I WAS LEADING GOING INTO THE FINAL ROUND OF THE JOBURG OPEN SO I WAS EXPECTED TO WIN. IT WAS NOT LIKE THE MAYBANK CHAMPIONSHIP - I HAD NO EXPECTATIONS. I DIDN’T EVEN KNOW I WAS GOING TO WIN UNTIL THE 16TH LEADERBOARD. BOTH WINS ARE DIFFERENT BUT VERY SPECIAL. BECAUSE
G400 MAX A great fit for players looking to add distance through stability and forgiveness.
©2018 PING P.O. BOX 82000 PHOENIX, AZ 85071 XXXXXXX
G400 Streamlined shape increases speed throughout swing. Also available in G400 LST and G400 SFT.
MAX MOI To The MAX * Both the G400 Max and G400 drivers have combined moment-of-inertia (MOI ) measurements exceeding 9,200 [G-CM 2 ], elevating forgiveness levels to new heights and resulting in the tightest dispersion in golf. That means more consistent distance and accuracy, round after round. Visit a PING Fitting Specialist or PING.com today.
Faster Face
Fairway-Finding Forgiveness
G400 G400 MAX
7,474
7,832
6,587
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7,636
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Engineered to increase exing and deliver a powerful sound and feel, the forged T9S+ face produces hotter ball speeds for more distance.
Competitors * MOI comparisons as of January 1, 2018
Engineered E Acoustics A Internal rib structure In ttunes clubhead for pleasing sound and feel. p
G400 Max (460cc) compared to G400 (445cc)
I’M SO EXCITED BECAUSE THIS IS THE FIRST YEAR OF THIS CHAMPIONSHIP. IT’S SO GREAT THAT MY NAME IS THE FIRST ONE ON THE TROPHY. – ATTHAYA THITIKUL
T
he kid is just 15 years old and she is already a star! Atthaya Thitikul, displayed the maturity and courage of a seasoned player to take down three other players to win a play-off in a spell-binding win at
the inaugural Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific which was played recently at the award winning Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore. “I’m so excited because this is the first year of this championship. It’s so great that my name is the first one on the trophy,” exclaimed Thitikul. She created history by winning the tournament in Singapore and has earned invitations to the ANA Inspiration (29 March-1 April) at Mission Hills Country Club in California, USA, and the Ricoh Women’s British Open (2-5 August) at Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club in Lancashire, England, as well as the LPGA’s Women’s World Championship at Sentosa Golf Club. Thitikul, who only turned 15 a few days before her win has a very impressive pedigree – last year, she became the Ladies European Tour’s youngest-ever winner and won gold medals in the SEA Games individual and team events in Malaysia. Born in Ratchaburi province west of Bangkok, Thitikul made her major championship debut at the Ricoh Women’s British Open last August and the following month played in The Evian Championship in France, where she made the cut.
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You’d be surprised how much the majority of golfers kno there are some who just resign themselves to accept the head to serve as an extension for a golfer to swing at a g everything is driven by technology, the perception of golf these “sticks” regarded just as “sticks” and nothing mor golf shafts are products of technology and the performan this as the scenario, ASIAN GOLF set out to find out more
w about shafts. To many, they just don’t give a hoot! And then, e fact that it is some fancy gizmo that connects with a clubgolf ball. Honestly speaking, in this day and age where virtually f shafts is changing and changing for the better. No longer are re. Today, there is growing understanding and awareness that nce of a modern day golf club has to do a lot with shafts. With e about shafts relative to performance.
CHRIS HILLEARY
“
“Act
up. In re
club beca
allows th in turn, t
Thos are in es
of the clu
The auth
who belie
this conc
have ach
experien
people te
has to be
He respo
Anyw
shafts an
performa
regarded
Presiden
discussio
ASIAN G
understo
largest g
a golf clu
think so?
CHRIS H
“T
he Shaft is the Engine of the Golf Club”. Ever
major manufacturers have always focused on head technology, so
heard this phrase?
this is the information that most golfers are familiar with. It is not
Well, we scoured the Internet and saw
until a golfer attempts to optimize the performance of their clubs
the following posting in response to the ques-
that the benefits of a properly fitted golf shaft become acutely
tion posed and it goes this way:
evident.
ually, those who believe this have their auto parts mixed
eality, the shaft is more like the TRANSMISSION of the golf
ASIAN GOLF: In numerous reader surveys that we have conducted over the years, club golfers pay the most attention to
ause it connects the golfer’s hands to the clubhead and
brands as opposed to the mechanics and dynamics of a golf club
he golfer to transfer his or her power to the clubhead, and
which includes the ubiquitous golf shaft. Has the time come for
o the golf ball.
golfers of all skill-sets to start paying attention to golf shafts?
se who like to say the shaft is the engine of the golf club
CH: If you look at the overall trend of the industry, “Custom Fit-
sence trying to say the shaft is the most important part
ting” is the fastest growing sector in the golf market. Because the
ub or at the least, equal in importance to the clubhead.”
golf shaft is such a critical factor to club fitting, the awareness
or went on to add, “I’ve found in my career that most
of the performance benefits of a properly fit golf shaft is rising
eve the shaft is the engine of the golf club have come to
quickly. As a result, golfers of all skill levels will begin to pay at-
clusion because of success in shot improvement that they
tention to this vital component of the golf club.
ieved upon making a change to a different shaft. Upon
ASIAN GOLF: From a layman’s perspective, a golf shaft is just
cing this improvement after making a shaft change, these
another part of the equipment mix that connects the club head
end to think “if it made this much of a difference for me, it
to the golfer. This said, how would you go about educating the
e important for every golfer.” And does the author agree?
golfer into understanding the intrinsic functions of a golf shaft?
onded with an emphatic retort: “Wrong!”.
CH: There are several factors that play a role in performance of
way, our interest was to get a good understanding of
a golf shaft. Most golfers are aware of the overall stiffness rating
nd how important this single element is as it relates to
of a golf shaft (i.e. Stiff vs Regular flex) but there are many other
ance. For the answers, we turned to one of the most highly
things to consider when selecting the correct shaft. A significant
d brands in shafts, Aerotech Golf and had a chat with its
contributing factor to performance is weight. The weight of the
nt, Chris Hilleary. The following are excerpts from that
shaft can have a large effect on the overall feel as well as influ-
on:
ence the players clubhead speed and timing of the “release” of
GOLF: Let’s talk golf shafts – it is perhaps the least most
the club. These can make a very substantial difference in both
ood and appreciated part of the golf club amongst the
distance and accuracy. Another major influencer is not just the
group of club golfers and weekend hackers. It is a part of
overall stiffness (Stiff vs Regular) but the stiffness profile. This is
ub that is taken for granted. Do you agree and why do you
the distribution of stiffness along the shafts length. A shaft with
?
a softer tip section can feel and perform much differently than
HILLEARY: I agree! The large marketing budgets of the
a stiffer tipped shaft even when the overall stiffness (full length CPM) is measured the same in both shafts.
EQUIPMENT FOCUS BBE BETTINARDI BET EETTTI TTIN IIN NA ARD AR RRD DI G GOLF OLF OL O LF LF
ASIAN GOLF: In most cases where clubs are bought off
shafts to Graphite/Composite shafts. Steel shafts have
the shelf, the clubs come fitted with OEM shafts. Does this
been around for over a century and became popular
AS
work especially if a golfer expects to improve on his game?
because of their performance benefits over the hickory
dis
the
CH: Not with much success. Every golfer has a unique
shaft. Graphite shafts were first introduced in 1970 and are
CH
set of swing characteristics and the likelihood of getting a
now supplanting steel as the material of choice for golfers
imp
shaft off the shelf that optimizes the player’s performance
of all skill-sets. Graphite shafts can not only be designed
loc
is extremely low.
lighter, but the design freedom is vastly superior to that of
to i
ASIAN GOLF: One option would be to change the shafts –
a steel shaft. This means we can design graphite shafts
dis
would this be the correct approach towards a shaft change?
with a greater variety of stiffness and weight profiles to fit
AS
Is a shaft change integral to custom fitting and would this
any golfer on the planet. We can also combine materials to
is t
be the correct route to consider for a shaft change?
achieve even greater performance enhancements. Aero-
the
CH: Re-shafting your current set of irons is an option as
tech is widely known for our varied use of materials.
sm
long as the heads you’re using are a good fit for your golf
Our SteelFiber shafts are designed by adding higher
ern
swing and are in playable condition. If you have an old set
density steel fibre material to the surface of the graphite
spe
of irons you may want to avoid this option and focus on a
golf shaft allowing us to achieve unique playing characteris-
CH
new set. The grooves of your current set could be overly
tics that cannot be achieved using graphite alone. In addition
the
worn not to mention advancements in head design of the
to the design freedom, graphite shafts also offer superior
Wit
newer clubs have the potential to improve your perfor-
vibration dampening characteristics that reduce injury, pre-
Gol
mance as well.
vent aggravation of existing injuries and decrease fatigue.
sha
ASIAN GOLF: Would you generally agree that the
Although the benefits of graphite were first realized in the
ligh
proper selection of the right shaft goes hand in hand with
driver shaft due to the light weight properties which revo-
to 1
custom club fitting?
lutionized driver performance, the industry has been a little
me
CH: Absolutely! While there are several critical param-
slower to adopt graphite shafts in irons. There are just too
hea
eters when fitting a golfer into new clubs the proper shaft
many advantages to composites and we are now seeing the
imp
selection is one of the most important. Getting fit into the
shift of even the best players in the world moving to graphite
AS
correct shaft can be the difference between striking the
in most clubs. I am a firm believer that graphite will take
on
ball in the middle of the face or out around the perimeter
over the iron shaft category. It’s just a matter of time.
get
having a substantial influence on overall performance.
ASIAN GOLF: Considering that using customised shafts
gol
ASIAN GOLF: There’s a huge amount of technology
is an essential consideration for a player wanting to
CH
involved in golf shafts. Broadly speaking help us under-
improve his game, would it be correct to assume that the
and
stand the main categories of shafts and their respective
next big thing in golf would have to do with playing with a
abl
suitability to players of different skill-sets?
set of clubs fitted with the right shaft?
the
CH: The biggest change in golf shaft technology that’s
CH: “Custom Fitting’ is the fastest growing sector in the
as
occurring during our lifetime is the transition from Steel
industry even though it’s been around for decades, so I
AS
wouldn’t say it’s the “next big thing”. But as custom fitting
do
continues to expand and more and more players get fit into
CH
the
asiangolf asi asia a as siiia sia s ang ngo ngol n go gol g ollf 203 o 20 2 03
32 3 2
e correct shaft the golf industry as a whole will benefit.
SIAN GOLF: Would custom-fitted shafts mean greater
stance, less dispersion and more accuracy?
H: Yes! I mentioned before a properly fit golf shaft can
prove club head speed, timing of the release and impact
ation (centre hits). All of these performance factors lead mproved control, decreased dispersion and maximized
tance.
SIAN GOLF: A common belief amongst Asian golfers
that American-made shafts are not suited to them and
e reasoning is based on the assumption that Asians are
maller in stature and with less strength than their West-
n counterparts, thus creating a case that Asians need
ecial shafts. What are your thoughts on this?
H: We have every size and strength golfer imaginable in
e Western markets and we make a shaft for everyone.
th that said, marketing campaigns from the major Asian
lf Manufacturers have promoted the need for lighter
afts for Asian golfers so they tend to gravitate toward the
ht shafts. We produce shafts in anything from 47 grams
125 grams. I would encourage Asian golfers to experi-
ent with several different weighted shafts as a slightly
avier shaft (than what they are used to) could possibly
prove their performance.
SIAN GOLF: The natural follow-up question would be the weight of shafts. Are the weight of shafts generally
tting lighter and what sort of impact is this having on a
lfer’s game?
H: This is correct…with improvements in material science
EVERY GOLFER HAS A UNIQUE SET OF SWING CHARACTERISTICS AND THE LIKELIHOOD OF GETTING A SHAFT OFF THE SHELF THAT OPTI-
d manufacturing techniques the shaft industry has been
MIZES THE PLAYER’S PERFORMANCE IS
le to push the limits of shaft weight. This is good news for
EXTREMELY LOW.
e golfer that really benefits from lighter weight shafts but
I alluded to before this is not all golfers.
SIAN GOLF: With technology advances in materials, you see shafts becoming lighter going forward?
H: I do believe shaft manufacturers will continue to push
e limits in weight. But equally important is improving our
33 3 3
august aug au augu a ug ugu ug gu ust st 2 2017 01 017 0 17 1 7
ability to make light weight shafts that are stiff enough to hold up to the forces generated by stronger golfers, so these players now have lighter weight shaft options. Most super lightweight shafts on the market right now are only available in softer flexes because they don’t have enough material (carbon fibre) in them to achieve the stiffer flexes.
ASIAN GOLF: In assessing the role of a golf club and its performance, how much weightage will you place on shafts as opposed to the club head?
CH: The importance of each of these components really depends on the individual golfer and their swing characteristics. I will say that the golf shaft influences a lot of elements in club fitting and the resulting player performance. Total club weight, club head feel, Swing Weight, and timing so it can have a huge effect on overall club performance.
ASIAN GOLF: Let’s shift gears and talk about the life-span of shafts? Typically, how long would a shaft last for or is there a recommended time-frame for shafts to be changed?
CH: A graphite golf shaft will last forever as long as it’s not damaged in any way. It’s a common misbelief that there is a lifespan to a composite golf shaft. The main reason to switch to CHRIS HILLEARY WITH ERIC NG, FOUNDER OF BIG FISH GOLF, ONE OF SOUTHEAST ASIA’S BEST KNOWN CUSTOM FITTERS.
a different shaft is if your current shafts are not a good fit for your golf swing. Golfers’ swings will change throughout their lives as well. Changes in a golfer’s physique, skill level, or clubhead speed should all be motives to look into replacing your golf shafts to regain optimal performance.
ASIAN GOLF: Aero Tech is pretty much a niche player in shaft technology – what advice will you give to golfers in Asia with regards to shafts and why they should look at shafts with a whole new perspective?
CH: I would encourage any golfer, no matter what country you’re from, to visit a skilled club fitter and get custom fit into your next set of clubs. This will allow you to test some of the latest shaft technology and give you the best opportunity to improve and enhance your enjoyment of the game.
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Talk to players on the world’s best professional tours about their favourite choice when it comes to wedges and more often than not, the brand of choice would be Vokey wedges. That’s wedges crafted by the master-craftsman Bob Vokey. Ever since Vokey committed himself to the design and crafting of performance wedges, he has never looked back – every generation of new wedges has been an improvement on the previous models and this has been the man’s trademark. Much of Bob’s research and development takes place around the driving ranges, practice greens, and bunkers of his favourite R&D laboratory - the PGA Tour, where he works closely with professionals to better understand exactly what they need in terms of design and, most importantly, feel. As he puts it, “I have always said since the day I arrived at Titleist, that I have the best R&D facility in the world - The Professional Tours.” It is for this reason that Vokey wedges have been the overwhelming favourite among Tour players since 2004, with close to 40 per cent of all sand, lob, and approach wedges in play each week. While the PGA Tour is the ultimate proving ground, Bob always has the amateur golfer in mind when he goes to his design table. His philosophy has resonated in the marketplace where Vokey Design wedges are best-sellers with golfers of all skill levels.
ONE THING I KNOW FROM WORKING WITH TOUR PLAYERS THE LAST 20-PLUS YEARS IS THAT THEY WON’T PUT A NEW WEDGE IN PLAY UNLESS IT’S BETTER …. EVERY TIME WE COME OUT WITH A NEW ONE, WE HAVE TO PROVE IT. I CAN’T TELL YOU HOW MANY TIMES OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS PLAYERS ASKED ME HOW WE WERE GOING TO MAKE SOMETHING BETTER THAN SM6. BASED ON HOW QUICKLY GUYS ARE SWITCHING TO SM7, WE KNOW WE’VE DONE IT.
make something better than SM6. Based on how quickly guys are switching to SM7, we know we’ve done it.” The quick acceptance of the SM7 wedges is solid validation of the quality of the new wedges especially coming after the huge success that its predecessor, the SM6 enjoyed in the global marketplace. While the SM6 models ushered in a new
F
era of wedge innovation and performance with their ground-
or the 2018 season, Vokey has launched the
breaking Progressive Centre of Gravity (CG) design. The
revolutionary SM7 wedges which have already
advancements made with SM7 further widen the performance
received critical acclaim from professionals
gap between a Vokey and all other wedges.
who have put the clubs into play. Responding to
According to Vokey, the new Vokey SM7 wedges provide
the ready acceptance of the new wedges, Vokey
all golfers the opportunity for a better, more confident short
reacted, “One thing I know from working with tour players
game through unmatched craftsmanship, technology and
the last 20-plus years is that they won’t put a new wedge in
performance. “Improving in all three areas of wedge perfor-
play unless it’s better …. every time we come out with a new
mance, the SM7 models provide increased shot versatility with
one, we have to prove it. I can’t tell you how many times over
expanded fitting options, improved distance and trajectory
the last couple years players asked me how we were going to
control and more spin,” Vokey explained.
The key advancements of the SM7s can be broken down
VOKEY SM7 WEDGES PR THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A BETTER, M THE NEW
as follow: MULTIPLE GRINDS: The fastest way to a better short game is through a wedge fitting. Developed through his
GAME THROUGH UNMATCHED CRAFTSMANSHI
collaboration with the world’s best shot makers, Vokey’s six
MANCE.
tour-proven sole grinds – F, S, M, K, L and the new D grind – allow golfers of all skill levels to be precisely fit for their swing type, shot making style and course conditions. Vokey SM7 offers the game’s most complete selection of lofts,
“IMPROVING IN ALL THREE AREAS O
SM7 MODELS PROVIDE INCREASED SHOT VE OPTIONS, IMPROVED DISTANCE AND TRAJECT
bounces and grinds, with 23 different combinations. FINELY TUNED PROGRESSIVE CENTRE OF GRAV-
100% INSPECTED SPIN MILLED GROOVES CUT
ITY LOCATIONS improve trajectory and distance control
AT EVEN TIGHTER TOLERANCES deliver more spin
while creating the best-feeling Vokey wedges to date. A con-
(up to 100rpm more spin on average). Vokey and his team
cept pioneered by Vokey R&D, Progressive Centre of Gravity
identified the opportunity for an additional Spin Milled cut-
aligns the CG with the impact position of each loft to produce
ting process for plated wedges - this new method improves
precise distance and trajectory control with exceptional feel.
upon Vokey’s industry-leading groove cutting tolerances,
Engineered using cutting-edge CAD technology, Progressive
resulting in a more precise cut by finish and more spin in
CG is visible technology on the back of the wedge.
the plated wedges.
ROVIDE ALL GOLFERS
MORE CONFIDENT SHORT
IP, TECHNOLOGY AND PERFOR-
OF WEDGE PERFORMANCE, THE
RSATILITY WITH EXPANDED FITTING ORY CONTROL AND MORE SPIN.
Setting aside the tech-speak, one cannot deny the fact the SM7s continue the classic look of Vokey wedges and in one word, the clubs are BEAUTIFUL! There are four stunning finishes available - chrome, brushed steel, raw and black. In terms of performance, those who have tried the SM7s and who have opted to be fitted report that they
remarked, “I’ve never felt so confident over a chip, and felt able to control both flight and spin spectacularly!” Well, it looks like Vokey has bested himself yet again. To produce a better all-round performance over the SM6 says it all! The SM7 is the new benchmark that other wedges will have to measure up to!
discovered the club seemed to do the work for you. One golfer who was fitted for the SM7 wedges enthusiastically
CLICK TO GET CUSTOM FIT
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Both are products of quality design and engineering. Both place special emphasis on performance. Both are renowned for attention to meticulous detail. It’s all about quality and there is no compromise whatsoever! Every time Scotty Cameron lines up a new set of putters, one can look forward to exciting new technology and putters that look so good, you just want to admire the clean lines and pristine finish. But we’d like to hasten to add that the real mission of a Scotty Cameron putter is to get out on the greens and slam-dunk eagles, birdies and pars!
T
he famous Californian is back with his
The result is a better look, a better sound, a
latest line of putters – the Scotty Cam-
better feel and a better product.”
eron Select putters. Soon to be avail-
The Select putters are engineered
able worldwide, the new Select line
with innovative new face inlay technology
features seven tour-validated modern
that blend precision milled Scotty Cameron
blade and mid-mallet models. The new Select Laguna
craftsmanship with enhanced multi-material
joins Scotty’s classic Select Newport, Newport 2 and
constructions to deliver tour-validated perfor-
Newport 2.5 blade styles, while the popular Fastback
mance with unmatched feel and feedback.
and Squareback names return in updated mid-mallet
Put simply, the Select putters are all about the
offerings. Rounding out the line is the heel-shafted
“right look”, the “right sound” and the “right feel”.
mid-mallet Select Newport 3.
It takes a skilled eye to pick up on the details that
These next generation of Scotty’s long-time tour
matter to the best players in the world. Cameron
favourites, are modern heel-and-toe weighted blades
concentrated on draft angle improvements that
designed to support flowing strokes. “This new Select
resulted in a four-way balanced sole design, for fast,
line promotes feel while expanding what’s possible
square alignment at address. Refined contours and
with performance,” Cameron said. “We’ve extended
sight cues build confidence at address. Improved
the methodology of our proven multi-material technol-
sound and feel are the result of up to 30% more
THIS
ogy to include new stainless steel inlays for blades, as
vibration dampening material connecting face inlays
STRIVE
well as aluminium inlays for the mid-mallet models.
with putter bodies.
MANUF
2
PUTTE
PICK U
DIFFER
EVERYTHING I’VE LEARNED FROM REFINING AND REDESIGNING NEWPORT-STYLE PUTTERS OVER THE LAST TWO DECADES HAS GONE INTO 2018 SELECT LINE,” SAID MASTER CRAFTSMAN CAMERON. “I ALWAYS E TO RAISE THE BAR BY INCORPORATING NEW MATERIALS, MILLING AND FACTURING TECHNIQUES. I’M AT THE POINT WITH THE SELECT LINE OF ERS THAT NOW I’M HYPER-FOCUSED ON THE FINEST DETAILS. TOUR LAYERS UP ON THINGS MOST PEOPLE DON’T, BUT THOSE DETAILS CAN MAKE A BIG RENCE IN HOW A PUTTER PERFORMS.
SIG
reďŹ n ties
thin a sl
dim squ
SOUND: Improved sound and feel are the result of up to 30 percent more vibration dampening material connecting face inlays with putter bodies. The connecting screws are slightly larger to account for the increased
GHT: Contours and sight cues were
ned to enhance alignment opportuniand instil conďŹ dence. Scotty focused on
nning topline appearances by giving each
ightly rounder radius. Plumbing neck ensions, edges and angles have been
ared up for a cleaner look from address.
material and the surface compression necessary to produce the softer sound, while preserving the feedback demanded by the best players in the world to aid in distance control and diagnosing mishits.
SOLE: For the first time ever, Scotty Cameron has introduced a four-way balanced sole design for a faster setup and easier alignment at address. The balance point of each 2018 Select putter’s sole has been shifted
He went on to add, “While performance is always
forward to account for the weight of the shaft and grip
the end goal, I first design for aesthetics. Initially, a
and their impact related to how the putter sits at ad-
design has to appeal to the eye. But, when you examine
dress. This results in a putter that sits perfectly square
the components, you can appreciate the technology
at address to promote easier alignment on virtually
that goes into creating these amazing new putters,”
any lie.
Cameron said. “I’ve worked with insert ideas for years. This is the culmination of my research, the various inlays we’ve developed for this new line.”
“Everything I’ve learned from refining and redesigning Newport-style putters over the last two decades
So, if you are on the look-out for putters that feature sleek, performance-oriented models with new
has gone into this 2018 Select line,” said master
technology, shapes and configurations to satisfy the
craftsman Cameron. “I always strive to raise the bar by
variety of strokes, styles and preferences of golfers
incorporating new materials, milling and manufactur-
at every level of the game, check out Cameron’s new
ing techniques. I’m at the point with the Select line of
Selects. For a deep dive into all the models, click the
putters that now I’m hyper-focused on the finest details.
button below.
Tour layers pick up on things most people don’t, but those details can make a big difference in how a putter performs.”
CLICK TO VIEW
In this modern era, it is not unusual to see shoes meant for sports looking like sleek racing with colours, contours and stripes to match. More often than not, all of this livery turns ou cosmetic although those used in actual competition do feature elements of technology. B manufacturer goes to great lengths to study materials, design, performance and stability a grates all of its innovative discoveries in the finished product, then it’s time for everyone to take notice. After a hiatus of nearly two years since it launched a new model of golf shoes by the Red-Eyed Tree Frog of Central America (FootJoy Freestyle), the world’s number one golf shoes has lifted the veil of secrecy to reveal its gift to the golf world. The Tour-S, Foot – a golf shoe that is so feature-packed, that is it bound to get golfers flocking to stores to t
g machines ut to be just ut when a and inteo sit up and s inspired e brand in tJoy’s latest try it out!
T
he Tour-S is built like a supercar or at least its design philosophy shares a developmental platform that is not dissimilar to that of a supercar. Before ASIAN GOLF does a deep dive into the Tour-S, we would like to clearly stablish our reasons for why we believe that the Tour-S
is a true thorough-bred performance golf shoe like a Ferrari, Lamborghini or McLaren sports car. We would like to start with the Tour-S’s outsole which is the chassis to a supercar. The chassis has got to be perfect and anything less than that will have some very negative and terrifying driving experiences. In many high-end performance cars, the chassis is made from extremely strong and ultra-lightweight carbon fibre material. Similarly, the Tour-S has a powered chassis that uses PEBAX, a thermoplastic elastomer that consists of polyamide and polyether backbone blocks. This specialty elastomer offers very low material density, a wide range of shore hardness values, extremely efficient energy return and is optionally bio- based. This is cutting edge technology to start with and provides for an excellent chassis for the Tour-S. Next, we examine the “Launch Pods” of the Tour-S. These deliver tour calibre stability through the maximum extension of the surface area in the heel and the forefoot pods. In a supercar, this will equate with its traction control and aerodynamics which are critically important in performance cars, where
downforce at high speeds keeps a vehicle planted to the road. And then there is the Pure Performance Luxury leather sourced
po
by Pittards® of England which adds to the performance quality of
pr
the Tour-S. The high-end leather wrap is like the carbon-fibre
ou
bodies of supercars – lightweight, durable and built for speed!
To
There are many other features of the Tour-S that have
se
parallels with a performance car and these include:
th
Q the lightweight TPU Power Strap which harnesses and
Th
regulates footwork through the swing; Q a Dual Density PU Fit-Bed for supreme underfoot cushioning;
fro
Br
Q a PPL Carbon weave fibreglass midsole plate delivers support, stability and motion control Q and a Moulded traction control system, SecureCollar and
ar
PO
ComforTongue which promise a precision fit.
pr
After this preamble, we trust you now can understand why we
sta
have opted to compare the Tour-S with a supercar. It’s all about feel-
fic
ing and experiencing power, precision and comfort – which is what
sw
supercars are all about.
tha
The Tour-S according to FootJoy has been inspired by the best
fea
professional golfers in the world and created to deliver superior
nin
platform stability and overall Tour-calibre performance. Nearly
gr
two-thirds of all professional players wear FJ shoes each week,
PR
and it was this vast network of elite players who helped establish a
mo
clear picture of what elite and avid golfers need from their shoes to
loc
perform at their very best: power through stability, precision through
Co
support, and maximum comfort.
ro
“The new Tour-S shoe is the most
THE NEW TOUR-S SHOE IS
owerful shoes ever built by FJ. It is built to
THE MOST POWERFUL SHOES
ovide power and precision supported by
ur renowned outstanding in-shoe comfort. ur-S is inspired by our Tour staff players
EVER BUILT BY
FJ. IT IS BUILT TO
eking for a shoe that delivers power
PROVIDE POWER AND PRECISION SUP-
rough a wider, more stable platform.
PORTED BY OUR RENOWNED OUTSTAND-
hese are the best performance shoes ever
om FJ” said Timothy Yoong, FJ Regional
ING IN-SHOE COMFORT.
rand Manager for Southeast Asia.
INSPIRED BY OUR
The stand-out features of the Tour-S
e:
OWER.
The Tour-S PowerPlate outsole
TOUR-S IS
TOUR STAFF PLAYERS
SEEKING FOR A SHOE THAT DELIVERS POWER THROUGH A WIDER, MORE STABLE PLATFORM.
ovides an incredibly lightweight yet
ARE THE BEST PERFORMANCE SHOES EVER FROM
able platform from which players ef-
– TIMOTHY YOONG
ciently transfer power throughout the golf
wing. Built upon a foundation of a proprietary Pebax® polymer,
at is typically 20% lighter than other polymers, the PowerPlate
atures an integrated carbon weave fibreglass mid-foot plate and
ne Launch Pods to create additional structure, surface area, and
ound coverage for maximum stability.
RECISION.
The Tour-S features FJ’s proprietary PowerStrap, a
oulded component integrated into the shoe’s upper to provide
ck-down medial and lateral support. SecureCollar and
omforTongue technologies deliver a secure, precise fit
und after round.
FJ
THESE
COMFORT.
The Tour-S utilizes a dual-density PU Fit-Bed to
ensure all-day underfoot comfort and FJ’s exclusive Premium Performance Leather (PPL) to achieve top grade feel, finish, and waterproof protection. What do the professionals think of the Tour-S? “From the moment I tested this shoe, I knew it provided the perfect blend of comfort and stability for me, especially on my left side as I move through the ball,” said Spanish ace Rafa Cabrera Bello. “It feels like a wider platform than I’m used to, like I have more ground coverage and contact and a much more stable base,” said Kevin Kisner, crack performer on the PGA Tour. In putting this review together, ASIAN GOLF saw some interesting trends setting into FootJoy. We see the Tour-S as the dawning of a new era at the company and the unfurling of a new strategic plan under the leadership of its new youthful president, Chris Lindner. A dynamic executive who served for some ten years at Nike, he is on a new vision for FootJoy which is evident with the launch of the Tour-S. A product that bears all the hallmarks of Lindner’s philosophy which seems to point towards getting the company to lead with footwear innovation and reinvest in some new resources. Lindner is also said to be big on consumer engagement that will be based on staying connected to the dedicated golfer 24/7, 365. His thinking seems to be more representative of the times – he wants to bring the consumer new content, new ideas and exciting ways to launch new products. Well, it’s CRAZY LOVE alright! We can already feel the joy! Bring it on FootJoy!
This editorial column has been made possible through a collaboration between the PGA Tour and ASIAN GOLF. Given the growing presence in Asia of the largest professional golf tour in the world, we felt that it was incumbent upon us to provide the PGA Tour with its own platform to talk about its activities throughout this vast Continent. There is no denying that what the PGA Tour is doing in Asia will go a long way to expose the highest level of professional tournament golf to every country in the region. As of now, the PGA Tour has very high profile engagements in the ASEAN bloc, China, South Korea and Japan and this role is expected to grow progressively in the years to come. The bottom-line simply points to Asian golf being a huge beneficiary insofar as growing the game and uplifting the standard of play are concerned. Only good is going to come out of the PGA’s stake in Asia. The following is the latest editorial contribution that looks at how the PGA Tour goes beyond just staging golf tournaments. It traces the incredible role the PGA Tour plays in driving charity events in conjunction with its tournaments that impact the lives of communities. The PGA Tour’s Chuah Choo Chiang reports:
O
n the PGA TOUR, winning isn’t everything.
and providing educational opportunities for kids, raising
Beyond the push to be the best of the best
awareness and research for cancer and autism to provid-
and beyond the pursuit of golfing great-
ing food aid, the PGA TOUR has taken the lead to making a
ness, the PGA TOUR’s stars and the tour-
difference beyond establishing global golf stars who make
naments that form its annual schedule
headlines every week.
continue to join forces to go beyond the game and impact the lives of people in places where the TOUR visits. In 2017, the PGA TOUR and its tournaments gener-
“The entire PGA TOUR family takes tremendous pride in the positive impact that we continue to make each year through the millions of dollars that are raised for
ated more than US$180 million for charitable causes,
very deserving charitable organizations,” said PGA TOUR
surpassing the previous year’s record amount by ap-
Commissioner Jay Monahan. “As we often note, beyond
proximately US$14 million. The landmark announcement
the sheer dollar amount, the real story is in the hundreds
raised the all-time total generated for charity by the PGA
of thousands of lives that benefit from these contributions
TOUR to US$2.65 billion.
every year.”
Such has been the impact of the PGA TOUR’s To-
In 2017, five PGA TOUR events raised more than $10
gether, Anything’s Possible charitable platform that Swed-
million for charity – the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am,
ish golfer Jonas Blixt succinctly explained what it meant to
Valero Texas Open, DEAN & DELUCA Invitational, the
see thousands of lives being touched beyond the ropes.
John Deere Classic and the Waste Management Phoenix
“I feel like playing on the PGA TOUR almost comes
Open. In addition, the Presidents Cup announced a record
second,” said the three-time TOUR winner. “What we get
donation of more than $10.7 million while the TOUR’s
to do for charity, what the PGA TOUR gives back to the
flagship event, THE PLAYERS Championship, generated
community is the greatest thing about playing on the PGA
$8.7 million.
TOUR.” From supporting children’s hospitals to mobilising disaster relief, building homes for disabled troops
In the spirit of giving back, golf stars, both past and present, have chipped in over the years to make a difference for the less fortunate. Golf’s Big Three – Jack
THE ENTIRE PGA TOUR FAMILY TAKES TREMENDOUS PRIDE IN THE POSITIVE IMPACT THAT WE CONTINUE TO MAKE EACH YEAR THROUGH THE MILLIONS OF DOLLARS THAT ARE RAISED FOR VERY DESERVING CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS.
AS WE
OFTEN NOTE, BEYOND THE SHEER DOLLAR AMOUNT, THE REAL STORY IS IN THE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF LIVES THAT BENEFIT FROM THESE CONTRIBUTIONS EVERY YEAR.
– JAY MONAHAN | PGA TOUR COMMISSIONER
PHIL & AMY MICKELSON
MY FANS ARE REALLY THE ONES WHO MADE THIS HAPPEN. THEY MADE IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO GIVE BACK TO
PENSACOLA COMMUNITY WHERE THE US$1 MILLION PRIZE WAS USED TO FURTHER TWO CAUSES, OUR LOCAL CHILDREN’S THE
HOSPITAL AND JUNIOR GOLF EFFORTS IN THE AREA.
– BUBBA WATSON
Nicklaus, Gary Player and the late Arnold Palmer – par a one-day event back in 2010 which raised an astoundi million in a single day for a mission school.
Phil Mickelson and his wife, Amy, launched the “B the Brave” programme over 10 years ago to help build
disabled troops and provide educational support for sp children of servicemen and women killed in action. Olympic gold medallist, Justin Rose, and his wife,
their foundation to help under privileged students via a
lunch programme called “Blessings in a Backpack” wh
kids, lunch at school on Friday is their last meal until t on Monday for breakfast.
As part of its sponsorship of the season-long FedE the PGA TOUR, FedEx commits US$1 million in annual
to benefit non-profit organizations. The donations align
Cares, a global giving initiative, in which FedEx is investing US$200 million in over 200 global communities by 2020 to create opportunities and deliver solutions for people around the world. South Korea’s K.J. Choi, the first Asian Tour graduate who made it big in America by winning eight PGA TOUR titles including THE PLAYERS Championship in 2011, has a big heart as well. When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Choi donated US$100,000 for relief efforts. “Watching the chaos and devastation, I felt the need to get involved and support the residents of Houston,” he said. Support for ailing PGA TOUR stars is never forgotten. In January, the TOUR launched “January for Jarrod”, a fundraising effort to help Australian golfer Jarrod Lyle meet his medical costs after undergoing a third bone marrow transplant for acute Myeloid leukaemia. As the lifeblood of professional sport, corporate support has been important too with the likes of TOUR marketing partner, MetLife entering a second year with its innovative season-long charitable initiative called MetLife Matchup, a weekly competition between two players who most successfully navigate tough situations on the golf course. The winner is determined through a fans’ vote and US$1 million will then be channelled to his chosen charity. Last year’s MetLife Matchup winner Bubba Watson said: “My fans are really the ones who made this happen. They made it possible for me to give back to the Pensacola community where the US$1 million prize was used to further two causes, our local children’s hospital and junior golf efforts in the area.” Indeed, when everyone comes together for a worthy cause, anything’s possible.
rticipated in
ng US$15.2 irdies for homes for ouses and Kate used
a school
here for many hey return
ExCup on donations
n with FedEx
L E T N AT U R E A N D TECHNOLOGY SWING
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We’ve got to hand it to our resident golfing guru Tony Meechai. While most teaching pros resort to tech-speak when discussing the mechanics and dynamics of how to play golf, Meechai is thinking about dancing. Incidentally, the man with the Black Hat has some really great soft shoe routines and in his feature this month in ASIAN GOLF, he is going to take you through his steps. Maestro, it’s over to you!
W
hat is central to dancing and being a good dancer? Actually, the answer is a cinch! All you need is to have TEMPO and the better your tempo, the better dancer you’ll be! And if you can swivel your hips and mosey along
to a green, just dance away and sink a putt! Speaking about dancing I just want to draw a co-relation between TEMPO and DANCING. If you can move and keep to the rhythm of the beat on the dance floor, then you are blessed with TEMPO. In fact, most all of us are born with a sense of tempo and I would like to show you how tempo can help you with your golf game. Tempo is very critical to your golf swing. The better your tempo, the better your swing! You’d be surprised to learn that a good number of golfers that I instruct don’t possess good rhythm and tempo! Oftentimes I get a front row seat to watch golfers mess up big time on a rou-
IT IS AGAIN ALL ABOUT TEMPO! SO, HONE UP ON YOUR COUNTING AND GET INTO A PERFECT TEMPO BECAUSE THEREIN LIES THE SOLUTION TO A GOOD SWING.
ONCE
YOU’VE GOT YOUR TEMPO DOWN PAT, YOU’LL SEE YOUR SWING CORRESPONDINGLY IMPROVE.
tine putt, a simple chip and a drive. It’s a shame because
SO REMEMBER, MAKE A RESOLUTION TO “SOFTEN” YOUR
in actuality this should not happen. It again comes down to TEMPO. So how do you correct it and get tempo to work for you? Here’s a tip I learned that has worked very well! Start by counting 1 and 2. Just like in ball room dancing, there is a count to the beat of the music so that you and your partner can be in sync without getting into each other’s path. It is again all about TEMPO! So, hone up on your counting and get into a perfect tempo because
BODY, GET INTO THE SWING OF THINGS
TEMPO WORK FOR YOU IN YOUR GOLF GAME. IT’S A TWO-FOR-THEPRICE OF ONE – BECOME A GREAT DANCER AND GOLFER WITH ONE FELL SWOOP! AND LET
therein lies the solution to a good swing. Once you’ve got
duced immediate results especially for their short game.
your tempo down pat, you’ll see your swing correspond-
The chipping and pitching around the green becomes very
ingly improve.
simple.
The same applies to putting - set up to the ball, and
So remember, make a resolution to “soften” your
take the putter back and count “1”, then move the putter
body, get into the swing of things and let TEMPO work for
forward and count “2”.
you in your golf game. It’s a two-for-the-price of one –
For chipping, do the same. Set-up and count “1” for the back swing and “2” for the forward swing. Say it out
become a great dancer and golfer with one fell swoop! And, if you are a club owner or manager, here’s
loud when practicing and you’ll notice that your brain will
a tip for you. Offer some great dance classes for your
focus on moving the club back and forth. No more hitting
members and invite the caddies to come along as danc-
down on the ball and it’s all because of good TEMPO!
ing partners. It’ll be great fun and when golfers have fun,
Students have told me that the 1-2 count has pro-
they’ll be back for more golf!
ABOUT TONY MEECHAI Born and brought up in the United States, Tony Meechai won his first golf tournament at the age of nine. He began working in the golf industry when aged 15 and competed in various Mini-Tour and PGA Tour qualifiers after turning professional in 1994. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from New Mexico State University and a degree in Marketing and PGA Professional Golf Management, he has made a name for himself in Asia over the past decade, during which he has served as Director of Instruction at Thailand’s Heartland Golf Schools and Springfield Royal Country Club as well as presenting tips on numerous golf television shows. His signature Black Hat Golf Camps and Schools offered at various clubs in Thailand, including Lotus Valley Golf Resort, portrays the unique Club-Focused Instruction curriculum and teaching philosophy. Voted 2015 and 2016 Top 3 Best Professional Golf Coach in Asia Pacific, he continues to strive to grow the game of golf in Asia. For further information, please visit www.tmggroupasia.com or email tony@tmggroupasia.com. Like Black Hat Golf Tips page on facebook.
In this ASIAN GOLF exclusive series, respected coach Iain Roberts is teaching golf novice Niall Donnelly to play the game in 10 one-hour sessions. Here, in week eight, Niall has some adventures in a bunker. IAIN KEEPS NIALL’S HEAD STILL AS THEY BEGIN BUNKER WORK – STANCE …
BACKSWING … AND FOLLOW-THROUGH.
LINE IN THE SAND …
PLEASE LET HIM GET ONE OF THESE RIGHT!”
FINALLY GETTING THE HANG OF IT.
F
unny old game, golf. Just as you think you’re cracking it, along comes an experience that has you scratching your head and muttering some
strong language. Today is one such occasion. After the usual warm-ups and review, followed by a few 7-irons to get comfortable, we head to the short game area and Iain – with a knowing grin on his face – announces we’re going to be doing bunker shots. I’m not fazed at all, playing off soft sand must be easy compared with hitting from the grass, surely? Fast-forward 15 minutes and I’ve still not managed a decent shot. Iain has
AND ATTEMPTING TO TAKE SAND AND BALL WITH IT.
IAIN INTRODUCES THE PUTTER …
patiently explained the concept, hitting the
sand behind the ball and letting the club follow through, but I appear to have a mental block in carrying out this simple instruction. He demonstrates the shot several times, making it look easy, and breaks down every point of my stance and swing so it is crystal clear what I should AND DEMONSTRATES CORRECT TECHNIQUE. NIALL ATTEMPTS HIS FIRST FEW PUTTING STROKES.
be doing. He draws a line in the sand behind the ball and shows how I should be using the shape of the sand wedge to cut through the surface, taking sand and ball on its way. But boy, is this hard work. Most of my efforts either stay in the bunker or disappear into the bushes on the far side of the green. Slowly, but slowly, I start to get the hang of it until a couple of efforts do actually finish up on the green. “Something for you to work on,” laughs Iain, with a degree of understatement. Next is putting and, after my bunker travails, I find this much easier. In fact, I’m half decent. Once Iain has corrected my stance and grip – different from other clubs in that the left hand’s index finger rests on top of the right hand’s little finger for greater control – I quickly find my distance and speed. Of course, this is just practice. Putting for a score, Iain assures me, is a whole new ball game. Back to the range to finish with some
ABOUT IAIN ROBERTS A Iain Roberts has spent a lifetime in golf since first picking up a club at the age of 14. As player, coach, retailer, administrator a and senior executive, he has vast experience in the game. His outstanding contribution to golf was given the ultimate recognition in 2015 when the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland awarded him Master Professional status. Iain is founder and operator of the Iain Roberts Golf School – www.iainrobertsgolfschool.com – which operates from three locations in Hong Kong.
www.iainrobertsgolfschool.com
irons and drives. “Right, lesson nine will be a complete review and breakdown of everything we’ve done to date, and number 10 will be your introduction to a golf course,” says Iain. I tell him I’m looking forward to that and ask if he has any advice. “Yes, don’t hit it in any bunkers.”
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The future of g It all comes do from to keep t development ASIAN GOLF B the game and keting, the lea
golf really depends on how the golf industry handles the development of junior golf. own to how the industry invests in the future to create a population base to draw the industry in a healthy state. Often times, there is a lot of talk about junior golf but sadly, it normally is just lip service and rarely sees the matter going anywhere. At BUSINESS, we regard junior golf development as being key to the future growth of with this in mind, we commissioned Andrew Wood, founder of the Legendary Marader in golf marketing to share with us his thoughts. The following is his report:
I
didn’t know it at the time, I was only 10, but the day the old golf pro, at Cow Glen Golf Club, near Glasgow died, would prove to be the start of the amazing odyssey that has been my life. A life dominated by chasing a little white ball around
the World. The friends I have met, the money I have made, the lifestyle I have enjoyed all link back to that dumpster! The dumpster where they put 60 years’ worth of old clubs, balls and rubbish that the old pro had accumulated in his tiny little pro shop. From it my uncle Forbes, whom I happened to be visiting, rescued a hand full of hickoryshafted clubs, which were promptly cut down and sent back with me in England. My parents didn’t play golf so I started hitting balls on my own on a playing field. Soon after I persuaded my parents to get me into a club as a junior member. For the next 8 years I spent every waking hour, other than school, at Llilleshall and later Shifinal golf clubs. The handful of kids I played with there are still my best friends today although I moved 4,000 miles away. The knowledge I gained about life and business on those fairways surpassed anything I ever learned in college. Although my golf did get me a full scholarship. I grew up in the late 70’s and sure we had video
and Pac-man but it was an
THE KNOWLEDGE I GAINED ABOUT
4. Lifelong friendships: You never know
afterthought, not a lifestyle.
LIFE AND BUSINESS ON THOSE
who you will meet on a golf
games like Space Invaders
Today’s kids need more than ever to get away from the computer games and
I EVER
course, but it’s one of the
– ANDREW WOOD
to make friends. Success
FAIRWAYS SURPASSED ANYTHING LEARNED IN COLLEGE.
get out and socialize with
easiest places in the world breeds success and people
real people not virtual people. Golf is by far the very best
who play golf are by in large more successful than the
way to accomplish that and set your kids up for success
average bear. Those are the people you want your kids
in life.
hanging out with! Best of all, golf creates a unique
Here is Why: 1. Anyone Can Play: Golfers come in all shapes and sizes. You don’t have to be particularly strong, tall,
bond so those friendships can be developed all over the world and last a lifetime!
5. Prepare for business: It’s hard to think about it
lean or fast to succeed. Golf champions come in every
now but kids grow up and the people they meet as
shape and size imaginable. It’s never too early to start,
children can play a huge part in their success later in
and unlike most other sports you can enjoy golf your
life. Golf is a sport that helps prepare kids and teens
entire life!
for careers in the business world. Even at 12 I was
2. Minimal Risk: Unlike many other popular sports like baseball, soccer and Football, the chances of injury, especially serious injury, are almost non- existent; golf is a non-contact sport.
3. Safe and positive environment: The golf course
learning about real life business every day from all the adults I played with.
6. Time Spent Outdoors: In today’s world of video games, smart phones and child obesity, it can be hard to drag your son or daughter off the couch. Golf is the
is a safe place to spend the day and often facilitates
perfect excuse to spend an entire day enjoying nature
mentoring relationships with successful audlts.
and presents the opportunity to develop healthy lifelong exercise habits!
7. Important Life Lessons: Golf is a sport that will teach your child life changing traits like integrity, discipline, persistence and respect. As they learn to conduct themselves on the golf course, these lessons will translate directly into everyday life.
8. College Scholarships: Avid golfers have a lot of opportunities when it comes to college funding. The earlier your child starts, the greater his or her chance is of gaining access to scholarship money.
9. Spend time with family: Golf is a game that can be enjoyed by the entire family from young to old. When children are young, they enjoy doing just about anything with you (but it doesn’t long last so start now). Golf is an opportunity for quality bonding time and it’s one that can last a lifetime.
10. Its FUN: This should probably be at the top of the list, but one of the best reasons to get your son or daughter involved with golf is that they’ll have an absolute blast. They’ll have the chance to learn new skills both physical and mental, make new friends and discover new opportunities. There are a million things you can buy your kids or gift your kids in the hope that it helps them learn and grow, only a few make a real impact. Encouraging them to play golf is one! I know it did in mine! I can’t tell you what an amazing difference golf has made to my life. Although I had hoped to become a golf professional, I never did. In the end it didn’t really matter, the travel, friendships, business opportunities and the fact that at 52 I’m can still easily walk 36 holes in a day, more than made up for it!
Andrew Wood is the world’s leading expert in golf, resort o t and destination marketing. ting. He is the author of over 40 books rketing Bible, The Hotel & Resorts including; The Golf Marketing endary Advice, Advice Golf Marketing Bible, The Golf Sales Bible, Legendary Marketing Strategy and Making Your Business the One They Choose. He speaks and consults worldwide and can be reached @ 1 352 266 2099 or Andrew@LegendaryMarketing.com
GLS Asia Limited, 5/F., BOC Group Life Assurance Tower, 136 Des Voeux Road Central Central, Hong Kong. Tel. +66 (0) 3261 6200 Email. info@gls.asia Web. www.gls.asia
Golf course operators – listen up! eGull, Inc., developer of the “Uber of Golf” eGull Pay App that allows golf courses to invite golfers to Play and Pay by the Hole™, reports that it received more than 100 requests from golf courses to deploy eGull Pay for the 2018 golf season during the 2018 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.
“P
ace-of-play and dynamic pricing solutions have marginally helped yield at public access golf courses,” said Pascal Stolz, CEO, eGull, Inc. “And course operators realize that pace or price aren’t the answer. TIME is a major challenge inhibiting play. Golf is the only sport that one can’t play for one hour.” eGull Pay is a GPS based technology solution that precisely tracks the
number of holes a golfer plays and bills players just for what they played. Just like Uber, golfers make a request to play at participating golf courses, are issued an authorization code and instructed where to start play (it can be first, tenth or any tee). When done playing, golfers end their round and are billed within the app. “The first question we were asked time and again at the show was, “Can golfers cheat?” and the answer is a resounding No! Unlike other honour system based programs eGull Pay integrates robust “anti-cheat” solutions” added Stolz.
“A golfer has to of the course to end
Stolz. “If they attemp
turn-it to airplane m
dies they will be cha
rate. Their credit c
ahead of time so t
cheating allowed”
Free to course the golfer, the eGull on to any tee-sheet.
to set the hours open
sets the price per ho
does the rest. Course
ventory without havin
millennials, wome “eGull Pay is golf to fit into the
th
exit the physical contour their round” explained
pt to shut down the app,
A GOLFER HAS TO EXIT THE PHYSICAL CONTOUR OF THE COURSE TO END THEIR
ard has been captured
STOLZ. “IF THEY ATTEMPT TO SHUT DOWN THE APP, TURN-IT TO AIRPLANE MODE
there’s virtually no
OR IF THEIR BATTERY DIES THEY WILL BE CHARGED
ode or if their battery rged the full 18-hole
”.
e operators and free to
Pay App is a simple addThe course is in control
n for play and the course
ROUND” EXPLAINED
18-HOLE RATE. THEIR CREDIT CARD HAS BEEN CAPTURED AHEAD OF TIME SO THERE’S VIRTUALLY NO CHEATING ALLOWED. – PASCAL STOLZ THE FULL
ole. Golfers check in at the pro-shop and the app
and eGull is aiming to grow the game and revenues one hole at a time.
e operators can now more easily fill unused in-
With the traction we have received at the show and the already 80+ golf
ng to discount it while attracting busy executives,
courses using the technology worldwide, eGull Pay is the #1 and leading
en, juniors and new players.
technology allowing courses to offer golfers the flexibility to play golf on
about creating flexibility and ingenuity, allowing
their own time.”
American lifestyle,” continued Stolz. “We find
In addition to individual golf courses eGull has “intrigued” many
hat golfers who used to play 3 times a year (i.e.
management groups and signed partnership agreements with a number
54 holes) now play twice a month, 7 holes in 1
of PGA Sections where the company and the Sections will promote this
hr, 15 min (i.e. 168 holes). Time is priceless,
new way to Play and Pay by the Hole. The program is available to all 41 PGA Sections in the United States.
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Thousands of golf industry professionals swarmed the 65th PGA Merchandise Show at Orlando, the mecca of golf. Now billed as the “Major of Golf Business”, the four-day event ended on a positive note with industry top honchos declaring that the golf industry had “stabilised”.
One frequent visitor to the PGA Show summe picture and change the metrics to support th industry who realize that the pictures and wo are trying to figure out where the truth is to m
While the spin-doctors yarned that all was looking up for the industry which has been in the doldrums for some years now, the naysayers had a different story to tell.
All said and done, those who were on hand ce positive mindset after witnessing first -and th seen is how the marketplace responds and re
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CLICK TO
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ed it up this way:”Their job is to paint the rosy e happy story. The reality for people in the ords haven’t lined up for many years and who make better-informed business decisions.”
ASIAN GOLF tapped into the resources of the PGA of America and put together a visual show-and-tell that hopefully will give our readers a sense of what to expect in the days, weeks and months ahead with regards to golf equipment.
elebrated the show with many leaving with a he multitude of innovations. What is left to be eacts to all the hype generated at the show.
So, here goes:
O LEARN MORE
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