AG211 april2018 by Asia Pacific Golf Group

IS THE OVERWHELMING

T H E P R O V 1® A N D P R O V 1 x ®. T H E # 1 B A L L A T T H E ©2018 Acushnet Company. Source: Darrell Survey. MASTERS® is a registered trademark owned by Augusta National, Inc. and is being used with permission.

G CHOICE AT AUGUSTA.

E M A S T E R S Â®.

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ISSUE

211

APRIL 2018

The Asian Golf Awards are a tangible benchmark by which the industry recognises the best amongst them and it is for this very reason that the programme has enjoyed wide industry support for the past 18 years. The 2018 Asian Golf Awards on-line launches on April 1 and will be “live” until June 30.

12 SPECIAL FEATURE 20 A CLASSIC RE-BORN! The re-birth of the Classic course was one of the high-points of the 25th anniversary celebrations of Laguna National Golf and Country Club in Singapore. It was just one part of a proudly unveiled feature-packed new look for the facility. The Classic is a hugely refurbished course and it has taken on a whole new personality altogether.

64 FROM THE SUBLIME TO THE RIDICULOUS! The debacle concerning the modern-day golf ball and the distance that it travels has surfaced again. Both the self-styled governing bodies of the game, the R&A based in Europe and its cousin, the USGA that resides across the pond have come up with research ﬁndings to support their case that the golf ball does indeed travel further. The general push-back from the industry has been quite vocal and ASIAN GOLF looks into this matter.

72 MASTERS 2018 – ASIAN ARMADA SETS SAIL FOR AUGUSTA! Leading the charge at the Masters this year which will take place in just a few days time, will be Thailand’s Kiradech “Big John Daly” Aphibarnrat, China’s “Dragon boy of golf”, Li Haotong and India’s red-hot poster boy of golf, Shubhankar Sharma. ASIAN GOLF wishes all of them well.

REGULARS 6 EDITORIAL TEAM

8 SHARED THOUGHTS: FROM PUBLISHER | R&A SPREADING “GIRL POWER” WORLDWIDE –REALLY?

40 48 EQUIPMENT FOCUS 40 PXG’S GEN2 IRONS – EPIC IN EVERY WAY! PXG has just rolled out its latest and it has been three years in the making. The brand new PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons is a marked improvement on PXG’s already outstanding clubs in every measurable way.

FASHION TREND 48 HELLO WORLD – HERE COMES FENIX! The success story of a young Bangkok-based entrepreneur. He answers to the name Michael Moir and since he started, his incessant pursuit to make a breakthrough has ﬁnally been realised. His brand FENIX XCell is now on a well-deﬁned pathway to exponential growth.In an exclusive interview with ASIAN GOLF, Moir took a look back at how he has grown and what the future has in store for him and his upstart brand.

GAME-IMPROVEMENT

ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS 90 THE HIGH COST OF GOLF AND WHY! Attendance at the Golf Industry Show 2018 was down appreciably this year. Generally speaking, attendance has been on a steady decline since 2008 when it attracted a high of 25,737 attendees. This is a serious trend as ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS feels that it will eventually (if not already) have a direct effect on jacking up the price of golf which is not something that the golf club industry needs right now. The following is James Prusa’s report on the 2018 GIS show and offers some ugly golf business insights.

78 FIX YOUR SWING WITH WATER! As odd as it may sound, this is a golf tip that works and when it is administered by ASIAN GOLF’s golf guru Tony Meechai, you better believe in its efﬁcacy! It has to do with swinging a bucket of water back and forth and then chucking the content towards the target. Try it and see how it will help get your swing right back!

78 84 98 ASSET MANAGERS ARE LIKE CADDIES – PICK THEM WISELY! ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS is proud to launch a new series of special reports that aim to provide useful information to golfers regarding the complex topic of ﬁnance and investing. It is our belief that golfers are generally from the higher quintiles of income earners and as such, they have more of a penchant on how to invest smartly and increase their respective assets.

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Mike Sebastian Editor/Chief Executive Ofﬁcer [mike@asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com]

INTERNATIONAL ROVING EDITORS

James Graham Prusa Correspondent

Angela Raymond President [angela@asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com]

Alan Campbell (China/Middle East) Correspondent

Andy Stangenberg Club Services Advisor

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Raquel Arcega

Tony Meechai (Black Hat Golf Tips -Thailand)

Executive Creative Art Director [raquel@asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com]

,DLQ 5REHUWV (7KH 3HUIHFW )

INTERNATIONAL ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Alice Ho Business Executive [alice@asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com]

Alice Ho

Email: alice@asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com

ASIA PACIFIC GOLF GROUP(2014) PTE LTD

Wayne Lwee Head, Digital Network/Video Editor [wayne@asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com]

1 Yishun Industrial Street 1, #07-23 A’posh Bizhub, Singapore 768160 Tel: +65 6323 2800 | Fax: +65 6323 2838 Company Registration No.: 201405689G

Myra Paras Accounts Executive [myra@asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com]

No part of Asian Golf may be reproduced in any other publications, printed or published without the written permission of the publisher. Opinions in Asian Golf are the writers’ and are not necessarily endorsed by Asian Golf. Asian Golf accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. Manuscripts, photographs and artwork will not be returned unless accompanied by appropriate postage.

With visibility surgery on m of news did n As I was trol I suddenly ca ment from th ing an expan in growing th women and g

y limited to one eye due to my right eye, this juicy piece not escape my attention. ling through my junk mail, ame across an announcee venerated R&A regardded role it will be playing he game of golf amongst girls.

n a statement, the self-styled governing body over golf in the world, bar North America which comes under the purview of the United States Golf Association (USGA), the R&A declared that it is continuing its commitment to increase participa-

tion in golf among women and girls by providing funding to support the appointment of new development managers in Australia, England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Notice

WOMEN AND GIRLS CONTINUE TO BE AN UNDERREPRESENTED GROUP THROUGHOUT GOLF ACROSS THE WORLD AND MORE WORK NEEDS TO BE DONE TO ATTRACT

that no mention is made of Asia – wonder if this commit-

MORE OF THEM INTO THE SPORT AT A

ment actually includes Asia and the rest of the world?

TIME WHEN WE NEED TO BOOST

However, when my single good eye glanced down the statement, I discovered that one of its bureaucrats,

PARTICIPATION LEVELS.

Duncan Weir, executive director, Golf Development did magnanimously declare: “Women and girls continue to be

He went on to add: “We believe that there is a real

an under-represented group throughout golf across the

opportunity, working with our afﬁliates, to develop

world and more work needs to be done to attract more

inclusive and inspiring participation initiatives which

of them into the sport at a time when we need to boost

show that golf is a fun and enjoyable leisure activity

participation levels.”

that can provide many social and health benefits for women and families.” One wonders if the R&A is working with its affiliates in Asia along similar lines as it is with Australia, England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales? How is this programme going to work? Well, the R&A has revealed that an initial three-year funding package of £75,000 per nation has been agreed between itself, Golf Australia, England Golf, the Golfing Union of Ireland / the Irish Ladies’ Golf Union, Scottish Golf and Wales Golf for the recruitment and appointment of experienced sports development staff. It is ASIAN GOLF’s hope that the R&A plays fair by doing likewise in Asia to help grow the game for women and girls!

For the next three months, golf course owners, operators, members and golfers will be participating in the biggest annual poll to select the best amongst the best in the Asian golf industry. This annual drive to seek out the crĂ¨me de la crĂ¨me of the brightest and the best is entering its nineteenth year with the launch of the 2018 Asian Golf Awards poll. Every year since its inception, the Asian Golf Awards has been the most sought after and most respected award programme in the Asian golf industry and 2018, it is expected to set a number of new milestones as the programme heads towards the end of its second decade.

THE ASIAN GOLF AWARDS ARE A

RECOGNISES THE BEST AMONGST T

PROGRAMME HAS ENJOYED WIDE INDUSTRY S

or nearly two decades, the Asian Golf Awards has

modest

earned a reputation for its lofty and prestigious

industry

status in the Asian golf industry. Over the years,

help mo

the award programme, the only one of its kind

very bes

that covers the entire giant Continent of Asia, has

APGG.

had as its primary mission, a single-minded focus to serve as

the indisputable measure of excellence for the thousands of golf

benchm

clubs and the thousands who work in the industry.

them an

“The Asian Golf Awards had a very humble start but since 2007, it has grown steadily with more award categories added

enjoyed

The

every year and I am happy to report that for 2018, we will have

and wil

awards presented under 46 categories for winners voted in our

more th

on-line poll,” declared Angela Raymond, president of the Asia

has bee

Paciﬁc Golf Group (APGG), the owner of the programme.

continu

One of the reasons why the programme has been growing every year in terms of categories is due to the fact that clubs are constantly working hard to bring about improvements to various

breakin

polling.

For

operational areas which provide strong justiﬁcation for the

poll for

recognition spotlight to be focused on new award categories.

accepte

“With more than 5000 golf clubs on the Asian geographi-

conside

cal footprint, we believe that the 46 award categories is a very

The

A TANGIBLE BENCHMARK BY WHICH THE INDUSTRY

THEM AND IT IS FOR THIS VERY REASON THAT THE

SUPPORT FOR THE PAST

18 YEARS.

t number and it is our strong contention that if the golf

y in Asia is to grow, every measure must to be taken to

otivate and inspire those in the industry to strive for the

st,” explained Mike Sebastian, chief executive ofﬁcer of

went on to add, “The Asian Golf Awards are a tangible

mark by which the industry recognises the best amongst

ent democratic exercise where the ﬁnal outcome is determined

nd it is for this very reason that the programme has

by the popular vote. “Participation in the programme is open to

d wide industry support for the past 18 years.”

all qualiﬁed golf clubs, golf club personnel and golf equip-

e 2018 Asian Golf Awards on-line launches on April 1

ment manufacturers with physical premises and operations in

l be “live” until June 30. “For the 2017 polls, we received

Asia,” Ho explained. She went on to add, “Our computer-based

han 104,000 valid votes and the number of votes cast

veriﬁcation system to declare a valid vote will require each vote

en on an increase every year – we expect this trend to

to be completed with the name and e-mail address of the voting

e for 2018 and we are already looking forward to a record

ng year,” said Alice Ho, the coordinator for the on-line

party.” If these requirements are not complied with, the vote will be declared invalid. It is also important to point out that votes can be cast by the

r new-comers participating in the Asian Golf Awards the ﬁrst time, it must be noted that votes will only be

staff of a golf club, members of a golf club, golfers and members of the general public. “So long as each vote is cast with a

ed via the on-line poll. No other submissions will be

valid name and e-mail address that can be used for veriﬁcation

ered.

purposes, that will be acceptable,” Ho added.

e Asian Golf Awards poll is like any well-run, transpar-

Success in the Asian Golf Awards poll is like success in any

SUCCESS IN THE ASIAN GOLF AWARDS POLL IS LIKE SUCCESS IN ANY OTHER VOTING EXERCISE. IT’S ALL ABOUT HOW COMMITTED AN ORGANISATION IS TO WANT TO GARNER AS MUCH VOTES AS IT CAN IN THE CATEGORIES THAT IT WANTS TO SHINE IN

– IT COMES

other voting exercise. It’s all about how committed an organisation is to want to garner as much votes as it can in the categories that it wants to shine in – it comes down to effective marketing and promotions to pull in as many votes as possible. At this juncture, it must be categorically declared that the Asian Golf Awards is not a programme that requires those who are eventually declared the top recipients in each award category to pay a fee to the Asia Paciﬁc Golf Group. “At no point in time have award winners been required or asked to pay for either their awards or certiﬁcates – there is no cost whatsoever to the award

DOWN TO EFFECTIVE MARKETING

winners and this also includes an exclusive VIP invitation to attend

AND PROMOTIONS TO PULL IN AS

the gala awards banquet as an honoured guest of the programme,”

MANY VOTES AS POSSIBLE.

explained Sebastian. “We bring this matter up for attention because there are some award programmes that require award winners to pay for their awards and certiﬁcates.” The following are the conﬁrmed 46 award categories for the 2018 Asian Golf Awards:

2018 Asian Golf Awards – for Online Voting COUNTRY-BY-COUNTRY

Best Locker Room (Male & Female) in Asia Paciﬁc

Best Course in Brunei Darussalam

Best Public Golf Course In Asia Paciﬁc

Best Course in Cambodia

Best Renovated Course In Asia Paciﬁc

Best Course in China (including Hong Kong and Macau)

Best Course Architect in Asia Paciﬁc

Best Course in Chinese Taipei

Best Golf Academy In Asia Paciﬁc

Best Course in India

Best Driving Range in Asia Paciﬁc

Best Course in Indonesia

SPECIAL CATEGORY OF THE YEAR - ONLY BEST THREE IN THIS CATEGORY

Best Course in Japan Best Course in South Korea Best Course in Laos Best Course in Malaysia Best Course in Myanmar Best Course in the Middle East Best Course in the Philippines Best Course in Singapore Best Course on the Sub-Continent (including Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan & Sri Lanka) Best Course in Thailand Best Course in Vietnam

BEST IN ASIA-PACIFIC CATEGORY

Best Club General Manager Of The Year Best Golf Manager Of The Year Best Food & Beverage Manager Of The Year Best Professional Golf Coach in Asia Paciﬁc Best Golf Course Superintendent Of The Year Best Caddie Of The Year Best MarComm Manager Of The Year Best HR Manager Of The Year Most Popular Golf Equipment brand (driver, woods/ hybrids, putters) Most Popular Golf Ball Most Popular Golf Apparel/Golf Shoes/Accessories

Best Golf Destination in Asia Paciﬁc Best Course in Asia Paciﬁc

The ﬁnal results for the 2018 Asian Golf Awards will

Best Championship Course in Asia Paciﬁc

be announced on November 3, 2018 at the Asian Golf

Best Golf Resort in Asia Paciﬁc

Awards Gala Banquet to be held at the brand new Hyatt

Best Golf Club Experience in Asia Paciﬁc

Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Best Club Food and Beverage Experience in Asia Paciﬁc

“We will be announcing a few very exclusive award

Best Value for Money Experience in Asia Paciﬁc

categories that will not be subjected to the on-line

Best New Course in Asia Paciﬁc

voting process and these will be made known within the

Best Clubhouse in Asia Paciﬁc

next few weeks,” disclosed Sebastian.

Best Maintained Course in Asia Paciﬁc Best Pro-Shop in Asia Paciﬁc

The link for the on-line voting is: http://agmawards. asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com/

Best Managed Golf Club in Asia Paciﬁc

I THINK BROADWAY IS GOOD FOR SHARPENING YOUR SKILLS. IT’S THE BEST FOR REALLY REACHING THE ZENITH OF YOUR TALENT. YOU GO SO FAR AND REACH THE PEAK OF IT AND YOU SAY, – MICHAEL JACKSON “MAYBE THIS IS THE BEST PERFORMANCE I CAN DO.

There are numerous deﬁnitions for the meaning of the word “classic” and its usage is de on how it is applied. In the case of this article that you are about to read, “classic” is use text of how a golf course has been judged over a period of time to be of the highest qual ing in its category. In fact, it is being used to appraise a golf course that was born with th 25-years ago. While it ranked amongst some of the better golf courses on the tiny island many years, some 14 months ago, this course was given a multi-million dollar make-ove chrysalis has emerged a golf course that has given the word “classic” a new meaning.

ependent ed in the conity and outstandhe name â&#x20AC;&#x153;classicâ&#x20AC;? some republic of Singapore for r and from this crucible of

LAGUNA NATIONAL’S FIRST 25 YEARS HAVE BEEN AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY. WE’RE EXCITED TO DISCOVER WHAT THE NEXT CHAPTER IN THE CLUB’S HISTORY HOLDS IN STORE FOR US. – PATRICK BOWERS

hile the re-birth of the Classic course was one of the high-points of the 25th anniversary celebrations of Laguna National Golf and Country Club in Singapore, it was just one part of a proudly unveiled feature-packed new look for the facility. The Classic is a hugely refurbished course and it has taken on a whole new personality altogether. In fact, Laguna National Golf & Country Club has hit a home-run and further enhanced its reputation as one of Asia’s most progressive and innovative lifestyle destinations. There are more exciting innovations coming up before the year runs out and this will include a new clubhouse with a teaching and practice facility, and the opening of a 198 rooms and suites plus eight golfer chalets at the Dusit Thani Laguna. This ﬁve-star hotel will offer full facilities that will include an array of food and beverage outlets, a ballroom, meeting venues, a spa, three swimming pools, three tennis courts and a ﬁtness centre.

“Laguna National’s ﬁrst 25 years have been an incredible journey. We’re excited to discover what the next chapter in the club’s history holds in store for us,” declared Patrick Bowers, CEO and managing director of the club. To mark the club’s 25th anniversary, ASIAN GOLF had an exclusive interview with Bowers and the following are excerpts from that discussion:

ASIAN GOLF: The Classic Course is ﬁnally ready for play. While you classify the Classic as a renovated course, it is really far from it. For all intents and purposes, the land is about the only constant – everything else has been changed. It’s a brand-new course! Your comments? PATRICK BOWERS: We approached the reconﬁguration strategically to ensure that the challenge and integrity was maintained, while at the same time, making the club more amenable to our regular membership play and in anticipation of the upcoming international resort guests. Initially we garnered important feedback from respected individuals and organizations over the past several years; this included the likes of Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, Vijay Singh, Lydia Ko and Colin Montgomerie while on playing visits to the club. We further sought the input of the Asian Tour, European Tour and PGA Tour representatives. Finally, we formed an active consultative committee of Members from

the club, o larly to giv all 18 gree completely about 200

ASIAN GO of being overall d BOWERS

done by th different a selection w term plann

ASIAN GO account a economic saying th How do y ment tha real clas BOWERS

and engag presented for our me year 2040.

of all playing levels, genders and ages, who met reguve us input and feedback. In the end, we reconstructed en-sites, reconﬁgured 14 of the holes, constructed 2 y new holes, rerouted the entire golf course and added yards overall after the reconﬁguration.

OLF: The design features are nothing short spectacular – who was responsible for the design of the new-look Classic? S: The reconﬁguration and rerouting of the Classic was

e team at IMG Golf Course Design. We reviewed three lternative routings and designs and then made our with them after exhaustive consideration and longning.

OLF: It is a design that has taken into full all aspects of aesthetics, playability and the c and effective use of land. It goes without hat a lot of thought had gone into this project. you look back on the hard-work and investat has gone into making the Classic course a ssic? S: We are blessed with ownership who is consultative

ges industry veterans to lead and deliver projects. We them with a long-term strategy that serves the goals embership and future resort business plan through the They listened, approved and let us implement it. It

OUR MASTERS COURSE IS A CLASSIC AND TRADITIONAL PARKLAND LAYOUT. THE CLASSIC COURSE IS TOTALLY DIFFERENT WITH ITS ELEVATION CHANGES AND DRAMATIC VISTAS.

THE MEMBERS AND GUESTS CAN PLAY

TWO TOTALLY DIFFERENT COURSES ON THE SAME PROPERTY AND IT IS NICE TO OFFER THAT CHOICE. has been about six years in planning and took us about 14 months on the ground work to deliver. With regards to the investment, we are of course unique in Singapore in that we are a proprietary golf resort and as such, all investment is made by the ownership.

ASIAN GOLF: Special mention should be made about the total design concept – it looks like it was designed and built to cater to players of all skill-sets. It can play tough for big tournaments and be absolutely user friendly for the resort-type golfer. Was this the intention from the get-go? BOWERS: That’s right. Our goal was clear. Keep the “bite” of the previous design (rated one of Asia’s toughest tests). At the same time, ensure that it was enjoyable on a daily basis for members

and resort guests. We have even added “junior tees” on every hole. We left strategic bunkers and fairway shaping in the zones where the professionals would be expected to navigate and have to weigh the risk and reward. In other areas we removed bunkers (approximately 100 removed in total) and made fairways and landing areas more generous for the social golfer. In total, we have a golf course which can play anywhere from 4500 yards to 7500 yards.

ASIAN GOLF: The course is very picturesque in that it has some very interesting topographical features in terms of elevations and undulations. It’s a pretty sight from virtually any vantage point throughout the 18-hole spread. Once again, kudos to the team behind the design and construction of the course. BOWERS: It’s a total team effort. And kudos to our ownership to be so bold to decide to stump up for such a large amount of earthworks in order to create the drama you reference. What we like most about the Classic Course is the added dimension it gives to Laguna Resort. Our Masters Course is

a classic and traditional parkland layout. The Classic Course is totally different with its elevation changes and dramatic vistas. The members and guests can play two totally different courses on the same property and it is nice to offer that choice.

ASIAN GOLF: One feature that club members and guests would never see under normal circumstances and that is your maintenance building. It rivals a hospital in terms of organisation and cleanliness. Attention to every detail of operational aspects of the centre is impressive. It is a facility that is truly a centre of excellence and how your care for your maintenance equipment reﬂects on the excellent state of the golf course. This must make your agronomy team really proud! BOWERS: We are very proud of it. While often out of

sight and mind, our Maintenance Operations Centre is the heart of our golf organization. One thing we preach to our team constantly is that “the golf course is the superstar” of the property. We strive to maintain our normal playing conditions to what we call “80% Championship Readiness”. This means to us, that within 4-6 weeks, either of the courses can be transformed into tournament condition. Naturally that means a high level of quality must be delivered on a daily basis. Between our senior leaders we have over 60 years of planning and operations experience in Asia Paciﬁc and abroad. Therefore we purposely planned best practices into all areas of the facility – so that we can be efﬁcient, deliver quality, minimize expenses/wastage and of course be environmentally friendly. We hope that our layout and design can serve as inspiration and the model for facilities throughout Asia.

ASIAN GOLF: Part of the new-look golf course

is your sp Tell us ab have to of BOWERS:

have introd Car golf car Positioning ment Syste designed to cluding high accurate ya all 36 holes as well as r and corpora the Precede with deluxe well as a co enjoy additi

panking new ﬂeet of golf buggies. out these buggies and what they ffer? : We are always trying to upgrade so we

uced a new ﬂeet of state-of-the-art Club rts, ﬁtted with the acclaimed Visage Global System (GPS). The Visage Golfers Managem provides an enticing array of features o enhance the enjoyment of our golfers, inh resolution images of each hole along with rdages and tracking to every landmark on s. You can also read messages and alerts, receive weather updates, F&B promotions ate advertisements. The new golf carts are ent model by Club Car. They are equipped e 10-inch alloy wheels and 4-ply tyres as omfort grip steering wheel. Golfers will also onal features such as ball and club washer,

WE HAVE ALWAYS COMMITTED OURSELVES TO STAGING TOP-TIER PROFESSIONAL TOURNAMENTS AT LAGUNA NATIONAL AND PUTTING THE CLUB ON THE RADAR FOR FUTURE MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS.” HE ADDED, “NURTURING AND HOSTING SUCH CHAMPIONSHIPS HAS ALWAYS PLAYED A SIGNIFICANT PART OF OUR LONG-TERM COMMITMENT TOWARDS THE GROWTH OF THE

CLUB AS WELL.

custom club rain cover, 3 sand containers per buggy as well as roof-mounted storage bins for phones, wallet and other items.

ASIAN GOLF: You now have two world class golf courses at Laguna National. Can we expect these two courses to become venues for some top professional golf tournaments going forward? BOWERS: Absolutely! While we have taken a short hiatus recently from hosting events from the likes of the Asian Tour, European Tour, Korean LPGA, we believe strongly in showcasing both our resort and Singapore via professional golf events. Watch for us to be back on the scene very soon again, most likely as soon as our stunning new clubhouse and resort hotel are completed. The ﬁnal word of commemoration for the 25th celebration has been reserved for Kevin Kwee, the Club’s Executive Director, who said: “We have always committed ourselves to staging top-tier professional tournaments at Laguna National and putting the Club on the radar for future major championships.” He added, “Nurturing and hosting such championships has always played a signiﬁcant part of our long-term commitment towards the growth of the Club as well.”

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ingapore may not be a major player in golf but when it comes to innovations on the golf course, it takes a very special place. Laguna National Golf and Country Club has introduced “Moonlight Golf” –

this is night golf with a whole new twist.

According to Patrick Bowers, CEO and managing director of the club, “It is a world first, and as part of our high-level strategy to engage our members and guests into more activities and socialization, we have launched Moonlight Golf Laguna Singapore.” It’s an innovative concept that Laguna National has launched in collaboration with its partners at 21X Sports. Put simply, the concept transforms several of the Classic course’s golf holes into a colourful LED wonderland after dark. “Players will be outfitted with LED vests and be given personal light sticks to use with their fluorescent golf balls. The traditional golf hole features are lined with colourful LED lights to guide the participants – white for fairways, yellow for bunkers, green for the putting surfaces and blue for water,” Bowers explained.

If you think that “Moonlight Golf” is just going to be a nice evening stroll on the golf course, think again! Each event will come complete with a professional DJ, pumping out vibrant music, Glow Bar for drinks and refreshments, activity guides to help participants enjoy each hole, delicious food…and a “fun zone” where those who have never swung a golf club before can play around and have fun along with their colleagues who may have played before. “It is intended to be an immersive, alternative so-

IT IS A WORLD FIRST, A HIGH-LEVEL STRATEGY T

BERS AND GUESTS INTO MORE AC TION, WE HAVE LAUNCHED

SINGAPORE,

MOON

AND AS PART OF OUR

TO ENGAGE OUR MEM-

CTIVITIES AND SOCIALIZA-

NLIGHT

GOLF LAGUNA

IF YOU THINK THAT “MOONLIGHT GOLF” IS JUST GOING TO BE A NICE EVENING STROLL ON THE GOLF COURSE, THINK AGAIN!

EACH EVENT WILL COME COMPLETE WITH A PROFESSIONAL DJ, PUMPING OUT VIBRANT MUSIC, GLOW BAR FOR DRINKS AND REFRESHMENTS, ACTIVITY GUIDES TO HELP PARTICIPANTS ENJOY EACH HOLE, DELICIOUS FOOD… AND A “FUN ZONE” WHERE THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER SWUNG A GOLF CLUB BEFORE CAN PLAY AROUND AND HAVE FUN ALONG WITH THEIR COLLEAGUES WHO MAY HAVE PLAYED BEFORE.

“IT IS INTENDED TO BE AN

IMMERSIVE, ALTERNATIVE SOCIAL ACTIVITY GREAT FOR FAMILIES, CORPORATE GROUPS OR A GANG OF FRIENDS WHO WANT AN EXCITING NIGHT OUT,

cial activity great for families, corporat groups or a gang of friends who want a exciting night out,” added Bowers. The experience will initially be offered as an “all inclusive” immersive experience. This means the restaurant and bar and the DJ will be exclusive to the user. The DJ will play for music for a specific group and everyone will get souvenirs and instruction, all food and drink and of course exclusive use of the golf course all lit up for the group in question. Packages will range from 20 – 60 people and will be available from S$4,999 to S$14,999 depending upon the number of people, food selection and additional party options. “We hope to cultivate an audience of avid players and then make it available some evenings for league play and individua enjoyment, once we get it established,” Bowers declared. Looks like “Moonlight Golf” is here to stay, at least at the Classic course at Laguna National!

e an

al â&#x20AC;?

A truly stunning golf vista that undulating landscape.

White frothy lined waves rolli onto a brilliant white sandy b gently rolling hills.

Running through this gift from ticulously manicured green tu and native shrubbery. A mast

KN Royal Golf Links Ca Hotline: (+84) 0989 79787

t rises and falls in an almost never-ending

ing in from the South China Sea lapping each set against a distant backdrop of

m the heavens are verdant pathways of meurf carefully punctuated by pockets of sand terful tapestry of a classic work of art.

The artist behind this spell-binding creation is one of golf’s greatest legends – champion golfer and golf course architect extraordinaire Greg Norman. One look at this landscape was all that Norman needed to transform it into Asia’s only true links golf course. A course that is already destined to earn its right to be ranked amongst the world’s best. KN Royal Golf Links Cam Ranh – opening soon for play. The game the way it should be played in the true traditions of links golf.

am Ranh - Long Beach, Northern Peninsula Cam Ranh - Khanh Hoa, Vietnam. 78 | Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Camranhlinks/

Before we dive into this major golf equipment development, permit us to do a quick ﬂash back on Parsons Extreme Golf (PXG), the company founded by American entrepreneur and philanthropist Bob Parsons in 2014. Leveraging breakthrough technology and sophisticated manufacturing processes that integrate high-performance alloys, PXG has produced the ﬁnest golf clubs in the world. It’s quest to discover new materials and processes to build the best golf clubs is unceasing and the latest from PXG is all about making its great clubs even better!

t’s been three years since PXG introduced its groundbreaking original 0311 iron technology. The company had 12 employees then and a singular vision – to develop the world’s ﬁnest golf equipment. Fast forward three years and today, PXG has more than 170 employees and a global footprint, but its vision has not shifted.

PXG has just rolled out its latest and it has been three years in the making.

The brand new PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons is a marked improvement on PXG’s already outstanding clubs in every measurable way. With performance as PXG’s only measure for success, the company took its time and left nothing on the table in the development of its GEN2 Irons. Through innovations in materials, technology and customization, PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons deliver better turf interaction, greater distance, faster ball speeds, higher launch and improved accuracy. “It’s a tall task creating a club that is better than the best, but that’s our commitment,” said PXG founder and CEO Bob Parsons. “PXG will never release a new club that is not notably better than what we currently offer. And we believe, PXG GEN2 Irons set a new standard for the world’s ﬁnest.” Forged from 8620 soft carbon steel, for enhanced aesthetics and durability over time, PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons have the sleek look of a blade and a buttery-soft feel. “The difference is noticeable,” FedEx Cup champion Billy Horschel stated. “The new irons setup beautifully, with a little less offset and a thinner top line. They feel amazing and are incredibly consistent.” Each club also features a hidden cavity injection molded with new COR2 Technology, a proprietary vibration dampening material with explosive C.O.R. (coefﬁcient of restitution) properties. Combined with PXG’s new internal face perimeter cut-out design, which dramatically increases the functional face area,

PXG WILL NEVER RELEASE A NEW CLUB THAT IS NOT NOTABLY BETTER THAN WHAT WE CURRENTLY OFFER. AND WE BELIEVE, PXG GEN2 IRONS SET A NEW STANDARD FOR THE WORLD’S FINEST.

GEN2 IRONS HAVE SOMEHOW IMPROVED

I THOUGHT WOULD BE NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO IMPROVE. AND, PXG IMPROVED THEM IN EVERY WAY. – RYAN MOORE ON AN IRON THAT

COR2 Technology helps deliver higher ball speeds, a more consistent response, improved accuracy, and an exceptional feel at impact. To maximize performance and deliver extreme forgiveness, PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons present the world’s thinnest club face and PXG’s signature perimeter weighting technology. Two-time major champion Lydia Ko shared, “I absolutely love the feel through the ball with the new irons, and my ball flight is consistently higher. The clubs are so forgiving on mishits that my distance isn’t really affected.” “GEN2 irons have somehow improved on an iron that I thought would be nearly impossible to improve. And, PXG improved them in every way,” five-time PGA TOUR winner Ryan Moore added. “The clubs went in my bag immediately!” Designed to meet the needs of golfers at every level, PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons will be available in four collections – Tour (T), Players (P), Xtreme Forgiveness (XF), and Super Game Improvement (SGI). PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons are priced at US$400 a stick for Chrome and US$500 for Xtreme Dark, a black diamond-like carbon coating. Purchased through PXG, price includes a custom fitting with a PXG Master Fitter, access to an extensive matrix of premium shafts and array of grip options. PXG 0311 GEN2 Irons will be available from April 19, 2018 onwards.

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MICHAEL MOIR

It just seems like yesterday when a young Scotsman met up with ASIAN GOLF in the city of Bangkok, Thailand. It was in 2010 and it was quite a memorable encounter. Memorable because of the impression that this young budding entrepreneur made especially being so far away from home. Remarkably, he showed no signs of discomfort or anxiety operating out of Thailand. He was obviously being driven by a very strong passion to make a success of his enterprise. And what was his enterprise? To manufacture and produce polo shirts for the golf industry. Quite a bold undertaking when one considers that the bull-pen at that stage was dominated by established big names in the golf apparel marketplace â&#x20AC;&#x201C; names like NIKE, Adidas and Footjoy. The very mention of these giants would under normal circumstances send a cold shiver down the spines of most people. But not in the case of this man who had a burning desire to make it in the rough and tumble dog-eat-dog haberdashery world where many dream of success but only a few make the grade! This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ASIAN GOLF spotlight falls on Michael Moir now 34 and the brains behind the fast-growing FENIX XCell brand of golf wear and accessories.

oir has certainly come a long way since he walked the streets of Bangkok looking for prospects to buy his products. In many ways, he traced the footsteps of a legend of the sports apparel and accessories industry,

Phil Knight, the visionary founder of NIKE who hawked his goods from his car. Moir was no different when he was 26 years

LUCK AND

old. Armed with a ﬁery passion and a focused vision to break

TIMING

into the golf apparel market, he never gave up. His incessant pursuit to make a breakthrough has since been realised and

ALWAYS COMES INTO

look back at how he has grown and what the future has in store

I CAN HONESTLY SAY, HARD WORK, DETERMINATION

for him and his upstart brand. The following are excerpts from

AND THE FANTASTIC

that sit-down session:

SUPPORT FROM KEY

his brand FENIX XCell is now on a well-deﬁned pathway to exponential growth. In an exclusive interview with ASIAN GOLF, Moir took a

ASIAN GOLF: Fenix started off as a very modest brand and

PLAY, BUT

your growth has been remarkable. What do you attribute your

PEOPLE ON THIS

growth to?

JOURNEY HAVE MADE IT

MICHAEL MOIR: Luck and timing always comes into play, but

POSSIBLE.

I can honestly say, hard work, determination and the fantastic support from key people on this journey have made it possible. Also our brand ambassadors play a big part in getting the name out there. Scott Hend has been with us since practically day 1 and with the addition of Kiradech and Shubhankar last year

I STILL REMEMBER THE DAYS I WOULD PICK UP 5 SHIRTS FROM THE FACTORY AND DELIVER IT MYSELF TO A

80KM AWAY, ALL TO GET STARTED, OUR ROOTS WILL ALWAYS BE HERE AND I AM PROUD TO SAY I STARTED THE BRAND IN THAILAND OR SOUTHEAST ASIA. – MICHAEL MOIR CUSTOMER

we have a very strong team FENIX XCell playing

set up in Thailan

across the globe. It is exciting and an amazing feel-

major plans in e

ing to see so many people wearing the brand now,

partners in key A

whether through our Custom range or our Retail

and new market

range. We still have a long way to go and will always

Australia, Spain

improve each collection we bring out.

the end 2018 we

ASIAN GOLF: There was a time when you had a

Korea, United K

very small distribution footprint for the brand. This

ASIAN GOLF:

has since changed – give us a sense of the markets

FENIX is an inte

you now cover?

from Asia?

MOIR: This has been our main focus in the past 12

MOIR: I would

months to get ourselves prepared to move into the

days I would pic

“big” markets. We currently have our own ofﬁces

deliver it myself

nd, Singapore and now the USA with

each one. We have solid distribution

Asian and Middle East markets,

ts signed up for 2018 include Japan,

n, Portugal, France and Germany. By

e plan to have new partners in China,

Kingdom and Canada. Would it be correct to say that

ernational brand that has grown out

say so yes, I still remember the

ck up 5 shirts from the factory and

f to a customer 80km away, all to get

IT IS EXCITIN

AMAZING FEE

SO MANY PEOPLE WEA

BRAND NOW, WHETHE

OUR CUSTOM RANGE O RETAIL RANGE. WE S

LONG WAY TO GO AND

IMPROVE EACH COLLEC BRING OUT.

started, Our roots will always be here and I am

Summit) said, Thinking outside the box gives

proud to stay I started the brand in Thailand or

you an edge, We have that in what we offer our

ELING TO SEE

Southeast Asia.

clientele and we plan to work on more things to

ARING THE

ASIAN GOLF: Would it be fair to say that FENIX

make us do things differently from the standard

can now be regarded as a global brand?

box brands.

R THROUGH

MOIR: I would say not yet, but watch this space,

ASIAN GOLF: What are your niche markets and

OR OUR

by 2019 I will have a different answer.

why have you decided to concentrate on these

ASIAN GOLF: FENIX is obviously holding its

market segments?

NG AND AN

STILL HAVE A

own against the big international brands â&#x20AC;&#x201C; how

MOIR: Our Niche market really is our custom-

D WILL ALWAYS

do you do it?

ization service for events and corporate entities.

CTION WE

MOIR: Customer Service and differentia-

We offer what the client wants, offering retail

tion from others is key. Just like the keynote

quality with bespoke service. This will always be

speakers at APGS 2017 (Asia PaciďŹ c Golf

a driving force in the FENIX XCell range.

ASIAN GOLF: When stacked up against major

have launched for 2018 and what is in store for

international brands, FENIX stands level with

the rest of the year?

them in terms of quality, material and design

MOIR: Our SS18 range is in store now and

– in fact FENIX oftentimes comes across as

we have had good feedback on the styles and

being avant garde especially when it comes to

quality.

designs and colours. Can you comment on this?

Our AW18 Launch will be our best ever

MOIR: This I cannot take credit for, I have a

range and we are so excited, the Pre-launch will

great team and partners behind me who work

be early June 2018. In addition we have;-

on this tirelessly to come up with new ideas.

Kiradech Collection V2- New bright designs

Research, trends and also personal touches from our talented team make all this happen.

worn and named after Kiradech

ASIAN GOLF: Pushing the envelope of design

PREMIUM Collection- for Japan and Korea

seems to have become a key differentiator for

markets only- A step above in design and qual-

FENIX – would you agree that this is one factor

ity.

that is helping FENIX set itself apart from

FENIX CUSTOM 2018- Yet more designs and

other brands?

a software program to design your own product

MOIR: Yes I would say so, we offer a diverse

in the colours you want.

range of styles for all parties, from our Core

ASIAN GOLF: FENIX is also now being seen

Stirling or Skye shirt in SS18 to our CAMO range

on the professional tours – who are your major

we have coming in AW18, there really is some-

brand ambassadors and is tour endorsement

thing for everyone.

and validation important to the growth of

ASIAN GOLF: Give us a sense of what you

FENIX?

OUR NICHE MARKET REALLY IS OUR CUSTOMIZATION SERVICE FOR EVENTS AND CORPORATE ENTITIES. WE OFFER WHAT THE CLIENT WANTS, OFFERING RETAIL QUALITY WITH BESPOKE SERVICE. THIS WILL ALWAYS BE A DRIVING FORCE IN THE FENIX XCELL RANGE.

MOIR: There is no doubt this has helped us massively. Our main

ambassadors would be Scott and Kiradech, but the emergence of

hankar is incredible and his future as a star of the game is in no d

all. But we also have players and professionals who are not so m the spotlight who help us to grow the brand through their own ne

and this is also crucial. The brand loyalty we have with our player something I am proud of.

ASIAN GOLF: FENIX the brand has always been synonymous w

golf tee-shirts – how has the brand diversiﬁed over the years an is the full range of the business today?

MOIR: Currently we have the full range of Golf Apparel except

Waterproofs. Trousers, Shorts, Belts, Hats, Outer layers, Vests, B

Accessories etc. In 2018 we are developing FX ACTIVE as an introd

to Fitness and lifestyle wear as well as adding some unique acces to our range. ASIAN GOLF: FENIX is obviously on a growth mode – that said w the brand’s plans for growing the business in the near future?

MOIR: Currently we work under two core entities of the brand: FENIX CUSTOM- Our bespoke range FENIX XCell - Our Core Retail range

Add ons to this are the Kiradech Collection and the Premium lection.

In 2018 we will ofﬁcially launch the FENIX RESERVE Range- T

is in development stages now, but it is going to raise the bar on qu

delivery and variety. We have hired a team in the USA with over 60

experience with the BEST brands in the business and this is going our game changer in the market worldwide.

brand

f Shub-

doubt at uch in

twork

rs is

with

nd what

ags,

duction

ssories

hat are

m Col-

This

uality,

0 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

g to be

I am PELLE

EDBERG and my life revolves around

Black Mountain. As a professional golfer, I have constant access to a world class golf course that helps me stay at the top of my game. I love life and Black Mountain offers the ideal setting for quality living in a perfectly managed and well-balanced environment. Black Mountain is safe and a perfect place to enjoy life. What more can I ask for? Come and be part of Black Mountain. Black Mountain Golf Club – a small piece of heaven on earth.

Black Mountain Golf Club – Asia’s Winningest Golf Club

Petchakasem Rd, Hua Hin, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand Tel: +66 32 618 666 | Email: proshop@bmghuahin.com | www.blackmountainhuahin.com

What is it with regulators? They feel that they have the God-given right to decide on what’s good or otherwise for the common masses. This assumption of authority sometimes sinks down to the level of total and utter stupidity but working within the realms of the authority invested upon them, regulators get away with murder! A case in point relating to golf focuses on the on-going debacle concerning the modern-day golf ball and the distance that it travels. Both the self-styled governing bodies of the game, the R&A based in Europe and its cousin, the USGA that resides across the pond, have come up with research ﬁndings to support their case that the golf ball does indeed travel further. What sort of distances are we talking about? This is where it becomes ridiculous. Both these bodies have put up a case that their ﬁndings prove that they have data to show an average gain of 3 yards across seven tours worldwide in 2017. It gets even more ridiculous especially when both these organisations have described this increase in distance as “unusual and concerning,” and one that requires closer inspection!

here are volumes to back up their case

Monahan noted that the average clubhead speed

but ASIAN GOLF believes that the point

had increased by 1.5 mph in the last 10 years. “We do

has been made. Reﬂecting the views and

not believe the trends indicate a signiﬁcant or abnormal

thoughts of golfers drawn from through-

increase in distance since 2003 or from 2016 to 2017,”

out our global distribution footprint, there

Monahan said.

is clear unanimity that both the R&A and the USGA can

He attributes the gains to ﬁtness, height and age

spend their time and ﬁnancial resources more produc-

among other things. It would be worth pointing out that

tively instead!

the PGA Tour is the only tour with laser technology to

There has been massive push-back from other

measure every shot, and according to its records, there

organisations connected with the professional game of

has only been an increase of 1.9 yards. “Throw out the

golf. These include the PGA of America and the PGA Tour,

eight different courses used in 2017 — expansive Erin

the world’s most powerful professional golf tour in the

Hills instead of Oakmont, Quail Hollow instead of soggy

world.

Baltusrol — and the increase was a half-yard,” explained

The ﬁrst to weigh in on this matter was PGA Tour

a source. What does it all mean? That nothing has

Commissioner Jay Monahan who pointed out there were

changed when it comes to advancements in golf, and the

three instances of a signiﬁcant gain in distance since 2003,

resistance is primarily coming from golf architectural

and ﬁve cases where average distance decreased.

circles.

AS A LEADER IN THE GOLF EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY, OUR TEAM IS CONDITIONED TO EVALUATE

and in a statement issued last month, it said, “Acushnet Company (the owner of the Titleist brand) is deeply committed to golf’s future health.” “As a leader in the golf equipment industry, our

DATA TO BEST UNDERSTAND CONTRIBUT-

team is conditioned to evaluate data to best understand

ING FACTORS AND ROOT CAUSES.

contributing factors and root causes,” said David Maher,

– DAVID MAHER Adding more clout to the PGA Tour is the PGA of America whose Peter Bevacqua, chief executive ofﬁcer said, “Based on the information we have seen, we are

CEO and president of the Acushnet Company. “It is with this intent that we analyzed the 2017 Distance Report, and our ﬁndings continue to support the fact that equipment regulations have been effective. “A closer look into the numbers in the Report under-

highly skeptical that rolling back the golf ball in whole or

scores the complexity of making any meaningful year-to-

part will be in the best interests of the sport and our col-

year comparisons,” continued Maher. “There were several

lective efforts to grow the game.”

contributing variables in 2017, including course selection

What about the manufacturer of the world’s most widely used golf ball, especially on the professional tours, Titleist? Well, the company has spoken out on this matter

and set-up, agronomical conditions and weather, which need to be considered when assessing the data.” Below is a sampling of key ﬁndings from our research

that impacted distance results in 2017:

Of the 25 Web.com graduates in 2016, 24 had shorter

At the 33 PGA Tour events conducted at the same venue

average driving distance on the 2017 PGA Tour, with an

in 2016 and 2017, where data was collected, the aver-

average decrease of -6.6 yards. For the years 2015 to

age driving distance increased +0.5 yards. At the eight

2017, 74 of the 75 graduates had shorter average driving

events held at new venues in 2017, the average distance

distance on the PGA Tour the following year. This can be

increased +8.0 yards.

attributed to course set-up.

Of these 33 PGA Tour events conducted at the same

“In any given year there are variables that impact

venue, 15 tournaments had a decline in average driving

distance, and any movement as in 2017 is not suddenly

distance with one event ﬂat to prior year. This highlights

indicative of a harmful trend,” said Maher.

the year to year variability in distance.

What about TaylorMade Golf – how have they reacted? In

The major championships conducted at new venues

a word, their push-back has been forceful! “The TaylorMade

represented one-third of the total average driving dis-

Golf Company ﬁrmly opposes any potential rollback of prod-

tance gained in 2017: U.S. Open (Erin Hills vs. Oakmont

uct performance or bifurcation of the rules in any form as we

+20.4 yards), Open Championship (Royal Birkdale vs.

believe these movements will be detrimental to the game at

Royal Troon +8.1 yards) and PGA Championship (Quail

every level,” stated David Abeles, CEO, TaylorMade Golf.

Hollow vs. Baltusrol +7.0 yards). The 2017 Masters average driving distance declined -0.4 yards.

“We are optimistic about golf’s future and we believe

that the growth initiatives our industry has invested in are

A CLOSER LOOK INTO THE NUMBERS IN THE REPORT

beginning to drive participation momentum in our sport. Any separation from the rules or any step backward in performance would be disadvantageous to the growth of the

UNDERSCORES THE COMPLEXITY OF

game. For millions of golfers of all skill levels, we believe

MAKING ANY MEANINGFUL YEAR-TO-

innovation and technology lead to better performance, and

YEAR COMPARISONS,” CONTINUED

better performance brings more joy to the game for all who play it.” “As the discussion around bifurcation and rollback

MAHER. “THERE WERE SEVERAL CONTRIBUTING VARIABLES IN 2017,

formalizes, we look forward to having a seat at the table

INCLUDING COURSE SELECTION AND

to lend our voice. Until then, we will continue to create the

SET-UP, AGRONOMICAL CONDITIONS

best performing products for all golfers,” Abeles added.

AND WEATHER, WHICH NEED TO BE

Whatever the ﬁnal outcome, let’s not forget that golf is now an Olympic sport and in the spirit of the Olympic Motto - “Citius, Altius, Fortius” (Swifter, Higher, Stronger), let us not handcuff the game!

CONSIDERED WHEN ASSESSING THE DATA.

SHUBHANKAR SHARMA

KIRADECH APHIBARNRAT

One of the most revered and prestigious professional golf tournaments on the annual golf calendar is without doubt the U.S. Masters. Each year, the tournament grandstands the best players in the world and 2018 will be no different. A blast from the past, Tiger Woods, will be making a muchawaited return to this stage and whenever he shows up, expect him to steal all the thunder from the rest of the ﬁeld. While the world media will have their fully dilated pupils focused on Tiger, ASIAN GOLF will be doing something diametrically opposed to the popular trend. We will be rooting for what is perhaps one of the best selection of players Asia has featured at the Masters in a long time. Although we would like to see one of Asia’s best win, we will welcome a good performance as a strong showing of improvement by Asia’s best.

LI HAOTONG

eading the charge at the Masters this year

has charged up this list and currently sits at the 66th spot.

which will take place in just a few days time,

Commenting on Sharma, Fred Ridley, chairman of Augusta

will be Thailand’s Kiradech “Big John Daly”

National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament said,

Aphibarnrat, China’s “Dragon boy of golf”,

“Golf is a global game, and throughout our history we have

Li Haotong and India’s red-hot poster boy

extended invitations to deserving international players not

of golf, Shubhankar Sharma. All are in their 20s, with

otherwise qualiﬁed …. as his results have proven, Shub-

Aphibarnrat as the veteran who looks to improve on his

hankar Sharma is a remarkable young player, and we look

commendable tied 15th ﬁnish in his 2016 appearance at the

forward to welcoming him to Augusta National in April.”

Masters.

Sharma, 21, has been the name on everybody’s lips

Each one of the trio is a world-class player in his own

following his double victory in South Africa and Malaysia,

right and possesses the big game skills and temperament

while a mesmerizing debut at the World Golf Champion-

to do Asia proud. The affable Aphibarnrat ranked 36th on

ships-Mexico Championship in March where he held the

the Ofﬁcial World Golf Ranking is in form and is already a

36-hole and 54-hole lead before ﬁnishing tied ninth an-

seasoned player on the big stage. Besides his high OWGR

nounced his arrival on one of the game’s biggest stage.

ranking, he also enjoys a good standing at the ﬁfth spot on the European Tour’s Race to Dubai rankings for 2018. China’s Li is blowing hot and ranked 40th on the OWGR, just one rung below Aphibarnrat on the Race to Dubai. The youngest player in the trio – India’s Sharma, who

The son of an Indian army colonel, Sharma is showing himself to be the real deal. He can consistently hit it straight with every club in his bag, he putts the ball beautifully and owns a calm temperament thanks largely to meditation taught by his mother since he was child. In addition, Sharma

at age 21, enjoys the lofty position as leader on the Race

is humble and has the personality that every parent would

to Dubai and rising fast up the OWGR table for 2018. He

be proud of.

THE KID HAS GOT IT. HE’S FOCUSED AND HE KNOWS WHAT HE WANTS WHICH IS IMPORTANT.

HE’S WORKING ON THE RIGHT STUFF, HE’S GOT A GOOD PHYSICAL TRAINER, GOOD CLUB FITTER IN GURBAAZ MANN, A GOOD COACH, AND HIS JOB IS TO JUST GO OUT THERE TO PRACTICE. WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE FROM HIS HOME WHICH HAS BEEN INGRAINED BY THE FAMILY, THAT’S VERY IMPORTANT. HIS PARENTS HAVE EDUCATED HIM TO BE A GOOD HUMAN BEING PLUS TO BE A POSITIVE AND MENTALLY STRONG CHILD.

HE’S A GOOD KID, DOWN TO EARTH AND WITH HIS HEAD ON HIS SHOULDERS. KIDS LIKE THIS CAN WIN. – JEEV MILKHA SINGH

Jeev Milkha Singh, one of India’s greatest players, has labelled his young countryman as the “complete

ders. Kids like this can win,” said Singh. Atwal, the only Indian to win on the PGA TOUR to

package” while Arjun Atwal, the only Indian to win on the

date, believes Sharma will go on to better his achieve-

PGA TOUR to date, calls Sharma a young man with an

ments in America.“Shubhankar has got the type of game

“older soul” which is evident through his maturity on and

that you can’t pinpoint what he needs to improve or get

off the golf course. Anirban Lahiri has predicted it would

better. There’s nothing that he’s very exceptional at but

only be a matter of time before Sharma joins him on the

the thing is that every part of his game he’s very good at

PGA TOUR.

doing,” said

“I won’t be surprised he goes on to win a major

Sharma together with Aphibarnrat and Li are in with

championship,” said Singh, who is a double Asian Tour

a chance to challenge for top honours at the Masters.

No. 1 and a multiple winner on the European and Japan

They represent a new breed of Asian golfers who have

Tours. “The most important thing is his attitude. You

what it takes in terms of skill to match the best the world

can be a good ball striker but if you don’t have the right

has on offer. Another quality that they all possess is the

attitude, it won’t help. I rate his game at 70% mental and

proven mental strength and physical stamina to be at the

30% on technique. He can take on the world.

top of their game throughout the gruelling four days at

“The kid has got it. He’s focused and he knows what he wants which is important. He’s working on the right

the Masters. Let us not forget that there will be other stars from

stuff, he’s got a good physical trainer, good club ﬁtter in

Asia at Augusta adding muscle and might to the Asian

Gurbaaz Mann, a good coach, and his job is to just go out

challenge. They include Japan’s Yuta Ikeda and Yusaku

there to practice. With the right attitude from his home

Miyazato, South Korea’s “silent assassin” Si Woo Kim and

which has been ingrained by the family, that’s very impor-

China’s Lin Yuxin.

tant. His parents have educated him to be a good human

So guys, ﬂy Asia’s ﬂag high. All of Asia will be right

being plus to be a positive and mentally strong child. He’s

there for you in spirit. Go show the world what this giant

a good kid, down to earth and with his head on his shoul-

Continent has to offer in terms of world class golf talent!

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durability & flexibility.

and durability.

As odd as it may sound, this is a golf tip that works and when it is administered by ASIAN GOLF’s golf guru Tony Meechai, you better believe in its efﬁcacy! As Meechai is Bangkok-based, the veteran PGA Tour certiﬁed coach plans to have some fun with water as Thailand will be celebrating the Songkran Festival, a water festival that ranks as the biggest celebrated holiday of the year! Over to the master himself for his watery tip:

ach year, I will b

bucket drill. It’s has been one of

tips ever. I still g golfers on how t

by far the easiest tip to underst

It doesn’t matter how long ing this game, you are going to

your swing gets out of sync. Yo

lost. You are going to dread all

movements that you think you a

And, you do not want to ask any

No need to despair – just t can solve your swing problems

ring back the water

before you think you should go out and buy a new

a timeless tip that

club to ﬁx the problem. It’s a tip that has players of

the most popular

all skill levels.

get feedback from

You may ask, how does it help golfers? Put

AFTER THE SIMPLE WATER DRILL, TAKE A GOLF CLUB. FOCUS ON

he water bucket is

simply, it re-arranges their thought patterns and

TAKING THE CLUB TO THE TOP

tand.

thinking. And, it helps review their fundamentals

OF THE BACKSWING.

you have been play-

and what they are supposed to be doing.

have spells where

ou are going to feel the mechanical

Here’s what I want you to do to get the most

THEN,

MAKE THE FORWARD SWING

from this tip.

MOTION TO THE FOLLOW

THROUGH.

are not doing right.

Take a water bucket in your hands and position yourself as you would setting up to the

yone for assistance.

ball.

take this advice. It

Now take a look at your target.

and you to try it

Swing the bucket to the target.

YOUR JOB IS TO

SWING THE CLUB TO THE TARGET, THUS THE BALL GOES TO THE TARGET!

You will notice the following: Q

Your brain focuses on the bucket and what to do. Move it back and forth. The body reacts to you moving the bucket backwards and forwards.

Your motion is towards the target and the water goes towards the target. Your job is to swing the bucket to the target, which send the water ﬂying towards the target, too!

After the simple water drill, take a golf club. Focus on taking the club to the top of the backswing. Then, make the forward swing motion to the follow through. Your job is to swing the club to the target, thus the ball goes to the target! Seriously, keep the swinging motion very simple! Like swinging the bucket of water back and forth and then chucking the content towards the target. Try it and see how it will help get your swing right back!

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.

Welcome to part nine of our ASIAN GOLF exclusive series in which respected coach Iain Roberts teaches golf novice Niall Donnelly to play the game in 10 one-hour sessions. As they near the end, they review everything Niall has learned so far.

REINTRODUCING THE CLUBS

nce the warm-ups are done, Iain takes out his teaching manual and notebook, opens each at the ﬁrst page, and announces: “We’re going back to the beginning.” And so we begin a comprehensive recap of

the whole programme to date, starting with posture and stance, then pivot, followed by introducing the club and perfecting the grip, addressing the ball, and ﬁnally honing the swing. Iain asks me to recount in detail what have learned in each one-hour session.

BACK TO THE START, IAIN CONSULTS HIS COACHING MANUAL.

ENHANCING THE ALL-IMPORTANT “PIVOT”.

IF YO

YOU C

SQUARE ONE AN

POSTURE, STAN

POSITIONING AN ORDER.

AND W

YOUR SWING, Y

DOWN INTO SEP

SUCH AS ARM A MENTS, SWING

IMPACT AND FO LIKE YOU HAVE AND YOU HAVE

STRIP THAT ENG

IT BACK TOGET

He then watches

shot from behind the

take up the correct p ﬁnally swing and hit

connection. “All thes

says Iain. “What do y

When you get behind

about what you are d

cally That’s how your habit.”

Iain is justiﬁably

system. He passiona

the bottom up, gettin on and developing a

you play the “right” w

quick ﬁxes and rema ADDRESSING THE BALL.

the-art coaching labs

OU START STRUGGLING,

CAN GO BACK TO

ND START AGAIN WITH

NCE, PIVOT, GRIP,

ND SWING, IN THAT

WHEN IT COMES TO

YOU CAN BREAK THAT

PARATE COMPONENTS

AND HAND MOVEPLANE, CLUB TURN,

OLLOW-THROUGH. IT’S BUILT AN ENGINE, THE KNOWLEDGE TO

GINE DOWN AND PUT

HER.

s carefully as I line up my

e tee, then address the ball,

posture and stance, and

it, thankfully making a good e need to be second nature,”

you do when you drive a car?

d the wheel, you don’t think

doing, you just do it automati-

r golf game should be – just

y proud of his teaching tely believes in building from

ng the basics absolutely spot

classic swing that will ensure

way. He doesn’t believe in

ains suspicious of state-of-

s full of video analysis and

GOING THROUGH EVERY STAGE IN DETAIL. DIFFERENT CLUBS, DIFFERENT BALL POSITIONS …

AND UNDERSTANDING HOW THEY SHOULD WORK.

THE STAR PUPIL LOOKS AHEAD TO HIS GOLF DEBUT.

digital hardware. Nothing, in his opinion, can replace a good coach who has a rapport with his pupil. “Once you’ve learned the game as you have these past few weeks, you have a better understanding of every facet of your body movement and swing,” he explains. “If you start struggling, you can go back to square one and start again with posture, stance, pivot, grip, positioning and swing, in that order. And when it comes to your swing, you can break that down into separate components such as arm and hand movements, swing plane, club turn, impact and follow-through. It’s like you have built an engine, and you have the knowledge to strip that engine down and put it back together.” Satisﬁed that I’m in good shape, we spend the rest of the session hitting shots with the pitching wedge, 7-iron and driver, repeating and repeating until we are happy with the proportion of decent shots. We have come a long way in nine hours. “OK, you’ve got to get out on a course

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 and ssenior executive, he has vast experience in the g game. His outstanding contribution to golf was g given the ultimate recognition in 2015 when tthe PGA of Great Britain and Ireland awarded him Master Professional status. Iain is founder a and operator of the Iain Roberts Golf School – www.iainrobertsgolfschool.com – which o operates from three locations in Hong Kong.

sooner or later,” says Iain. “We’ll do it next week.”

www.iainrobertsgolfschool.com

Certainly economic values are garnered from equipment, services and supplies that our commercial merchants provide to golf courses organically producing the game of golf. Most in golf course management do not see today’s golf merchant class as ‘parasites’ like the old imperial Japanese once did of its merchant class. However, today’s inﬂuence, control and accelerating consumptive costs of the golf course commercial supply sector seems to be growing out-of-balance and it reasonably begs the question: “Who is paying for all of these disproportionate costs of exorbitant numbers of people now engaged in the golf course supply sector?”

JAMES PRUSA

DIRECTOR, GOLF COURSES AND LABORATORY | SKY72 GOLF & RESORT | SOUTH KOREA |

The much bally-hooed Golf Industry Show 2018 is over and was declared a success by the organisation responsible for it – the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). However, after careful evalution by ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS’s roving international editor, James Prusa, some doubts were expressed over the GIS’s claim. An old GCSAA hand himself, Prusa launched a probe and discovered that attendance at the GIS this year dropped to its lowest point since 1986. Only 11,700 attended the show in San Antonio last month, which was 14 percent down from the prior year. Generally speaking, attendance has been on a steady decline since 2008 when it attracted a high of 25,737 attendees. This is a serious trend as ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS feels that it will eventually (if not already) have a direct effect on jacking up the price of golf which is not something that the golf club industry needs right now. The following is Prusa’s report on the 2018 GIS show and offers some ugly golf business insights.

he vast numbers of vendors along with their

concurrently hit g

growing army of personnel are essentially (and

golf course mana

near solely) supported ﬁnancially by golf cours-

and job loss). Go

es around the world. Ultimately it is golfers,

have become ﬁer

who bear the cost burden to feed, clothe and

of new projects o

house this burgeoning segment via the increasing high-price of golf that golf courses have egregiously passed along. Over the last decade golf course operators in occidental

revenues dried u Yet amongst course industry s

nations have suffered reductions in revenues, membership

mercial merchan

stagnation/decline, plummeting daily fee play, and across-

their corporate a

the-board expense cuts – including reductions in operating

able optimism.

staffs/competencies. Untold golf courses have gone bankrupt

are now sought a

and many have even gone out of existence to be sold off to

organizations wh

developers for new land uses. These destructive trends are

courses ﬁrst.

now sprouting up in the Asian golf market as seen in Japan,

Of course m

China and increasingly in Korea – with seeds of similar failure

commercial com

being planted in the rest of Asian golf.

blowback with a

The ripple effects of tough times for golf courses have

ness greed that c

golf course designers, course builders, and

agement professionals (shrinking salaries

olf course design ﬁrms along with builders

rcely competitive resulting from scarcity

or renovations – their ranks diminished as p.

OVER THE LAST DECADE GOLF COURSE OPERATORS IN OCCIDENTAL NATIONS HAVE SUFFERED REDUCTIONS IN REVENUES, MEMBERSHIP STAGNATION/ DECLINE, PLUMMETING DAILY FEE PLAY, AND ACROSS-

t all this ﬁnancial stress in golf, the one golf

THE-BOARD EXPENSE CUTS

segment that avoids downsizing is the com-

nt sector that supplies golf courses. In fact,

OPERATING STAFFS/COMPETENCIES.

– INCLUDING REDUCTIONS IN UNTOLD GOLF

annual reports are ﬂourishing with proﬁt-

COURSES HAVE GONE BANKRUPT AND MANY HAVE EVEN

And as such, these commercial companies

GONE OUT OF EXISTENCE TO BE SOLD OFF TO DEVELOP-

after ‘partners’ and a majority inﬂuence by

ERS FOR NEW LAND USES.

hose very interests are supposed to be golf arket pressures are indeed mounting and panies could well experience signiﬁcant reality check on their own gluttonous busi-

could provide much needed cost relief to golf

THESE DESTRUCTIVE TRENDS ARE NOW SPROUTING UP IN THE ASIAN GOLF MARKET AS SEEN IN JAPAN, CHINA AND INCREASINGLY IN KOREA – WITH SEEDS OF SIMILAR FAILURE BEING PLANTED IN THE REST OF ASIAN GOLF.

KEY GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS HAVE ALSO BEEN TRULY CHOPPED BACK IN

courses. Such a respite for golf course operators could come about much faster if they’d turn to their suppliers and start demanding it rather than destroying their operations’ ﬁnancial efﬁcacy or passing the costs on to golfers. While studies and analysis (to paralysis) by industry trade

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM THEIR OPERA-

associations such as the GCSAA focus on collecting outmoded

TIONS TO ATTEND IMPORTANT CONTINU-

golf course operating costs and trends, no one is taking a hard

ING EDUCATION CONFERENCES AND GAIN INCREASED MANAGEMENT PROFICIENCY.

COUPLED WITH ALTERNATIVES PURCHASING AND INFORMATION RESOURCES SUCH AS ACCESSED VIA THE INTERNET, THE OUTCOMES ARE BECOMING HIGHLY

INDUSTRY ECONOMIC INDICATORS THAT NEED TO BE VISIBLE

OPENLY PUBLICIZED TO ALL IN GOLF

– INDICATORS THAT EVEN THE VENDERS HAD BETTER PAY HEED.

look upstream of operations to research and study the cost trends of suppliers and that have been rising far beyond other

remunerated positions experience serious salary reduction trends in Real Dollars (as adjusted to the 1970 dollar purchase power parity - PPP). All while organizations such as the GCSAA annually boast picayune increases in ‘average’ Nominal Dollars (unadjusted to PPP) salaries. Key golf course management professionals have also been truly chopped back in financial support from their operations to attend important continuing education conferences and gain increased management proficiency. Coupled with alternatives purchasing and information resources such as accessed via the Internet, the outcomes are becoming highly visible INDUSTRY ECONOMIC INDICATORS that need to be openly publicized to all in golf – indicators that even the venders had better pay heed. It’s a formula for golf business disaster. Deteriorating salaries, shrunken benefits and reduced resources for professional golf course managers WILL NOT attract the best and the brightest to manage improved play conditions or financial stability of golf courses in Asia. However, it is a great formula for perpetuating incompetent managesimilar industries for decades. The attitude of far too many

ment creating easy prey for securing sales of useless,

suppliers seems to be ‘golfers and clubs are ﬁlthy rich and they

damaging and overpriced products sold to golf courses.

are dumb enough to desperately pay whatever high prices we

Uneducated buyers do not beware.

set.’ Those who harbour such strategies would be well advised

In the 1980s it was usual for the GCSAA to see around

to remember that what goes around, comes around – and trains

60-70% of its competent superintendent members attend-

move on tracks in two directions

ing the golf industry conference and tradeshow. Today the

Superintendents and other professional golf course

percentage of golf course superintendent, GCSAA mem-

managers have been caught in a vice being ﬁnancially squeezed

bers is signiﬁcantly trending down with shockingly less

endlessly from all ends – even to see their once comfortably

than 20% of GCSAA’s members attending the GIS today.

In a just published article in Golf Inc. magazine providing an objective look at the shrinking GIS attendance and tradeshow, the publication set forth an empirical, business-like history of the GIS participation. Now ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS can report yet other stunning business revelations into the GIS that have developed. At the recent 2018 GIS show held in San Antonio, Texas, ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS observed a huge crowd on the tradeshow exhibit ﬂoor – but this occurred

curiously on the floor during the two hours before the show was opened. End-user, real buyers consisting of GCSAA members and other golf course officials weren’t permitted on the floor until the official opening. After ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS’s initial inquiries to GCSAA staff requesting a meaningful breakdown of registered GIS attendees were rebuffed, senior GCSAA sources then confided and confirmed suspicions: Attendance at the GIS has flipped so significantly that registered exhibitors, sales personnel, vendors and distribution channel employees outnumbered the qualified-buyer golf course people. This is surely a reflection of cost burdens that are having a detrimental

impact on the price of golf and it must be fully disclosed and critically examined by all. According to reliable GCSAA sources, 51-52% of the

numbers look suspiciously extrapolated. GCSAA’s responded to ASIAN GOLF BUSINESS’s: “Our preliminary qualiﬁed buyer number is approximately,

registered attendees at the 2018 GIS were actually com-

5,550.” What the heck does that mean? In the computer

mercial exhibitors or distributors outnumbering buyers.

age, management operators in the Top 250 tradeshows

Reporting ‘gross total’ GIS attendance to the industry is

(http://www.tsnn.com) should know exact registrations and

meaningless, yet GCSAA has disclosed the ‘real’ atten-

detailed qualiﬁed breakdowns of attendance at all times

dance to others such as TSNN (http://www.tsnn.com).

before and after a tradeshow with exact ‘ﬂash reports’

GCSAA members and golf courses need to demand more attendance comparisons. An honest breakdown qualifying the various attendees is an economic indicator neces-

available every day. Delayed, ‘rounded numbers’ raise questions about fudged statistics. Only 47% of the 2018 GIS show attendees were actu-

sary for golf course business people to truly assess the

ally qualiﬁed buyers by GCSAA’s own rounded off numbers.

collective state of golf courses. Apples-to-apples, detailed

GIS appears no longer as a golf course interest event, but

comparisons for the GIS going back ten years are minimally

rather a merchant’s interest event – with golf courses

needed. What’s been hidden by the lack of frank disclosure?

around the world encumbering the expense through over

The recent article in Golf Inc. reported gross annual

pricing of products and supplies. GIS is now a commercial

total attendance going back to 2005, but that is only a sur-

sales staff driven event. A magnanimousness ‘Golfers,

face trend. How many GCSAA members attend compared

Golf, and Golf Courses First’ campaign is warranted and

to all the commercial sales personnel every year? Why are

would be widely supported by GCSAA expert volunteers to

the attendance numbers since 2015 all rounded off to an

return the major inﬂuence of the GIS to where it originated

even 100? It raises serious questions of accuracy – such

and belongs – golf course interest driven.

ASIAN GOLF is proud to launch a new series of special reports that a

information to golfers regarding the complex topic of ďŹ nance and inv

golfers are generally from the higher quintiles of income earners and

of a penchant on how to invest smartly and increase their respective

will appear in the next few months have been produced in collaborat

Management (https://www.aggregate.com.sg/). In the ďŹ rst of this ne

at why picking a caddy is not so different from picking an asset mana

aim to provide useful

vesting. It is our belief that

d as such, they have more

e assets. The reports that

tion with Aggregate Asset

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PICK A CAD KNOWLEDG

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CHOOSE A TIONSHIP

It is not just a part-time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; above the ers depend

olf is often seen as an individual sport, and for

them play their best game. In fact, players will even lean on their

the most part, it is. However, if you have ever

caddies for reassurance before taking that winning shot to make

watched a professional game closely, you would

sure they are on the right track and may even take their advice to

have noticed that caddies play a quiet but very

realign if necessary.

essential role.

A good asset manager will take on this role as well. By taking

t comes to crunch time, choosing the right golﬁng part-

the time to know their investor’s needs and making sure they are

e the difference between going home empty-handed or

comfortable with the overarching investment mandate, an asset

phy. In the world of investing the same applies too – for

manager can help to instil conﬁdence that great returns are just a

tors, asset managers play a key role with surprising

shot away.

with a caddy.

Make sure your caddy’s interests are on par with yours

at can investors learn from golfers when it comes to

right teammate for the game? What should you be on

Today’s caddies are better educated, more professional and must know the game inside-out. Why? Simply put, because they

for and how can you ensure

have the incentive to go the extra mile.

liver wins in the long run?

DDY WHO HAS A DEEP GE OF THE GAME

know that when they ap-

ball, they have many things during the pre-shot routine.

re a caddy comes in – from green to providing yardages

WHEN IT COMES TO

To make sure their interests are aligned

INVESTING, IT IS IMPOR-

with a golfer’s success, a caddy’s earn-

TANT TO FIND AN ASSET MANAGER WHO HAS A STAKE IN YOUR EARNINGS.

FOR INSTANCE, GET AN ASSET

ings are typically tied to how well a player fairs at the end of a game. On average, a caddy’s contract would see them taking home around 8% of a

MANAGER WHO FOCUSES ON DRIVING

player’s overall winnings and an added

RETURNS UNDER A SOLE PERFOR-

10% bonus if they snag a green jacket

MANCE FEE MODEL.

player’s pressure by letting

FORGOING THE USUAL MANAGEMENT

what to expect so that they

FEE SO THAT HE IS ONLY PAID WHEN

million bonus at the FedEx Cup. Fitzger-

AN INVESTOR MAKE PROFITS.

ald’s total take home for the tournament

ll their energy on hitting a

o, they must have an

owledge of the course. This can only be achieved by und the fairways and familiarising themselves with nd conditions of the greens. In a similar manner, asset

should aim to develop a deep and thorough understand-

markets as well as their stock picks to keep investors

ed.

CADDY WHO IS INVESTED IN BUILDING A RELAabout carrying the clubs - being a caddy means being psychologist too. They are a player’s most trusted ally coach, the physiotherapist, and any other trainer. Golfon caddies to know their strengths and quirks, to help

THIS MEANS

too. In 2016, J.P. Fitzgerald took home

g nearby hazards – they can

the biggest win of the year when he supported Rory McIlroy to a victorious US$10

was a whopping US$1.05 million. Likewise, when it comes to investing, it is important to ﬁnd an asset manager who has a stake in your earnings. For instance, get an asset manager who focuses on driving returns under a sole performance fee model. This means forgoing the usual management fee so that he is only paid when an investor make proﬁts.

PLAY A BETTER GAME WITH A BETTER CADDY When it all boils down to it, the pros know that picking the right caddy is key. Behind every Tiger Woods, there is a Steve Williams – often credited as a key piece behind Tiger’s golden era of golf, Williams was well sought after for his caddying skills and even brought Adam Scott, Greg Norman and more, to many wins on the PGA tour. So, who will be the Williams for your investment team?

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