I S T O TA L P E
T I T L E I S T. T H E # 1 B A L L P L A Y E D A T T H FOR 70 STRAIGHT YEARS AND STILL ©2018 Acushnet Company. Source: Source: Darrell Survey. U.S. Open is a registered service mark of the United States Golf Association® and is used with the permission of the United States Golf Association. The USGA does not endorse or sponsor Titleist or its products in any way.
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The Asia Pacific Order of Zenith, is the highest and most prestigious award reserved for a select few golf clubs in Asia. It is a spin-off from the long running Asian Golf Awards, the only pan-Asian recognition award programme for the golf industry. It will be presented to the first batch of twelve golf clubs at the awards ceremony this year.
SPECIAL FEATURE 50 A MAN WITHOUT A SMILING FACE MUST NOT OPEN A SHOP This is a special ASIAN GOLF report on the importance of food and beverage operations in golf clubs and the critical role that these operations can play in generating income. In the words of a seasoned club general manager, John Blanch who manages the internationally acclaimed Thai Country Club in Bangkok, “If a club has 50,000 rounds per year and it is able to eke out an extra US$2 per round on F&B spend from a golfer during their visit that would be an additional US$100,000 per year in revenue.”
64 ASIA’S BEST SHOT FOR A MAJOR! Kiradech Aphibarnrat, you’ve got to meet this guy to really appreciate him. He is down to earth and an all-round fun guy to be with. Besides all this, he is also Thailand’s hottest golfer and arguably the best professional golfer in all of Asia!
70 PRESIDENTS CUP – TIME FOR ASIA’S YOUNG GUNS TO RISE TO THE TOP!
50
It’s still 19 months away but the next clash between Team USA and Team International promises to be a knockdown-drag out battle with captains Tiger Woods and Ernie Els leading their respective teams in the charge. ASIAN GOLF takes an early look at the clash with this special report from the PGA Tour’s Chuah Choo Chiang.
ISSUE
213
J U N E 2 01 8
EQUIPMENT FOCUS 26 TOTALLY REVOLUTIONARY! Tour Edge’s latest product is the Exotics CBX Iron-Wood set, a highly revolutionary design that features a hollow body design. It is the first complete iron-wood set designed specifically for the sophisticated golfer.
32 THE BIG BALL SNUB! Titleist’s latest stable member is the much talkedabout AVX which is being pushed out into the global marketplace with some impressive claims of performance and distance. You got to try it out!
42 BARNEY’S BACK – HE’S 78 AND STILL ROCKS!
32 26
Remember Barney Adams of Adams Tight Lies fame? Well, he’s back with the revolutionary Breakthrough Golf company and his product is the “Stability Shaft”. This new product represents disruptive technology that uses a scientifically advanced multi-material design with geometries never before used in putter shafts.
64
42 GAME-IMPROVEMENT 78 GOOD HABITS AND GOLF – THEY’RE INSEPARABLE! If you want to enjoy your game of golf, it is absolutely imperative that you prepare yourself for it. Developing good pre-game habits is vital and ASIAN GOLF’s resident golf guru, Tony Meechai has some tips on good habits.
78 70
REGULARS 6 EDITORIAL TEAM | 8 SHARED THOUGHTS: FROM PUBLISHER
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]
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]
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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.
It’s not too often that the laid back golf industry gets shaken up but in the last few May, the industry was rocked by an announcement that came out of London. The Agency, quoting an organisation that refers to itself as the World Golf Group (a G revealed nothing about this organisation) is behind the creation of an eye-poppin circuit which is now reported to be in its planning stages.
W
e’ll give them the benefit of the doubt
(the richest tour currently on the Planet) pu
and take whatever has been reported on
meting down to Lilliputian proportions! The
its face value. So, if this is on the level, it
powerhouse accounts for annual tourname
will come across as a sort of an earth-
endar that account for more than US$300 m
quake in the professional game. Why so,
Based on this, one wonders how the big 800
you may ask? Well, the British-based World Golf Group (WGG)
in the room would react to the new British u
is said to be thinking big – to be more precise, it has HUMON-
to become the titular ruler of the profession
GOUS plans! Reuters states in its report that “the group hopes
think that the thunderous bellow of the mig
to stage 15-to-20 yearly tournaments around the world, each
will send the little macaques squealing in a
offering a purse of close to US$20 million”. If this is on the up and up, it will send the PGA Tour’s
Where it can get complicated is if the s
Tour (it has grandiose ideas of taking over t
w days of e Reuters News oogle search ng global golf
urses plum-
e big American nts on its cal-
million per year.
0-pound gorilla
upstart’s plans
nal game? We
ghty King Kong
a ight of terror!
smaller European he world)
WGG really has on its plate. Reuters states in its report that “several blue-chip sponsors are believed to be on board for the World Golf Series if top players can be signed”. It
BUT IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT MONEY! IF IT WAS JUST MONEY, GETTING THIS SERIES UP AND RUNNING WOULD NOT BE TOO MUCH OF A CHALLENGE.
BUT, IT’S
– WORLD RANKING POINTS FOR THE PLAYERS. FOR THESE POINTS TO BE GRANTED, THE WGG’S ALL ABOUT POINTS
PLANNED TOUR WILL NEED TO BE SANCTIONED FOR WORLD RANKING POINTS, AND IT IS VERY UNLIKELY TO GET THIS APPROVED.
PLAYER CONTRACTS ARE DEPENDENT ON THEIR WORLD RANKING.
goes on to quote an anonymous player who reacted: “Why would you not be interested — 18 tournaments for US$20 million?” But it’s not all about money! If it was just money, getting this series up and running would not be too much of a challenge. But, it’s all about points – world ranking points for the players. For these points to be granted, the WGG’s planned tour will need to be sanctioned for world ranking points, and it is very unlikely to get this approved. Player contracts are dependent on their world ranking. So, it looks like this effort is doomed even before it tries to get off the ground? One agent for professional golfers, Chubby Chandler thinks so: “This series will never get world ranking points, so it will cost people money in the end. I think there are a lot of obstacles to get over. The cards are stacked against them if they don’t get six of the world’s top 10 players to sign up,” he told Reuters.
throws its lot behind the WGG. It can lead to a full blown
So, the final outcome does not look promising. For
knock down drag out fight between the Europeans and the
history buffs of golf, the WGG plan sounds very similar
Americans. If you are a betting man, go with the Americans
to the world tour proposed by then-number one Greg
because the PGA Tour has history, very deep pockets, the
Norman more than two decades ago — a plan that went
matrimonial pledge of partnership from some of America’s
nowhere after the PGA Tour played hardball. Remember
most powerful corporations, a never-ending list of star
that the PGA Tour has the best players in the business
players and unmatched television coverage (the most vital
and it can play hardball again by threatening to scrap the
ingredient for the success of any global event)!
membership of any player who signs up!
Without getting ahead of ourselves, let’s see what the
Sigh!
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Awards. What do awards really represent? Regardless of whether they are handed out to actors or hoisted above a champion’s head at the end of a sporting match, awards and trophies make a clear statement about achievement. Awards are the material symbols that recognise that - This is the winner. This is the best. This is what works.
IN THE MODERN WORLD, THE TEN MOST PRESTIGIOUS AW
THE NOBEL PRIZE – named after Alfred Nobel, who created dynamite, is presented annually for achievements in chemistry, physics, literature, medicine, economics and peace.
THE PULITZER PRIZE - America’s premier prize in journalism, literature and musical composition.
THE PALME D’OR – The Ca Festival’s most prestigious pr is given to the top film’s direc
THE GO GLOBES ouring ac ments in
WARDS CAN BE CATEGORISED AS FOLLOWS:
THE ACADEMY AWARDS – the “Oscars” are handed out every year to actors, directors, producers and film professionals who worked on the previous year’s best films.
nnes rize and ctor.
OLDEN S - Honchievefilm.
THE BAFTA AWARDS - honours achievements in both film and television. THE GRAMMYS - Awards in a variety of classical, jazz, country and popular music categories.
THE BRIT AWARDS - honours achievements in popular music.
T
he big preamble on awards is necessary to
THE MAN BOOKER PRIZE Britain’s most prestigious literary award which is handed out every year to one author whose outstanding novel was published during the previous 12 months.
THE MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS – It honours the very best in music videos in a variety of categories.
Given the long and impressive history of the Asian
help set up what is going to be established
Golf Awards, it was generally felt that the time had come
as the most prestigious and most vaunted
for the creation of a special award that would seek out
special award for the golf club industry in
and honour the absolute best amongst the best. A unique
Asia. This article heralds the arrival of the
award designed to recognise distinguished golf clubs and
Asia Pacific Order of Zenith, the highest and most presti-
permanently enshrine these clubs in a hallowed class all
gious award reserved for a select few golf clubs in Asia.
their own. Hence, the creation of the Asia Pacific Order
The Asia Pacific Order of Zenith is a spin-off from the long running Asian Golf Awards, the only pan-Asian
Of Zenith. Commenting on the special award, Mike Sebastian,
recognition award programme for the golf industry that is
chief executive officer of the Asia Pacific Golf Group, the
now in its nineteenth year.
owner of the Asian Golf Awards said, “The time has come
Since its inception, the Asian Golf Awards has grown
for us in the industry to establish a Hall Of Fame for the
to become the most sought after award programme for
best amongst our golf clubs – clubs that have strived to
the Asian golf club industry. Today, the award programme
deliver the best all round experience for golfers.” Asia
covers more than 50 distinct categories and each year, the
needs to develop a benchmark to measure excellence and
best in each of these categories are brought together to be
the best way to do this is to create a peer group of clubs
recognised at the gala Asian Golf Awards banquet, widely
renowned for their commitment to excellence to serve the
regarded as “The Oscars” for the Asian golf industry.
yardstick for others.
ANVAYA COVE GOLF & SPORTS CLUB - PHILIPPINES
To kick-off the programme, a total of twelve golf clubs have
BANYAN GOLF CLUB – THAILAND
Anvaya Cove Golf & Sports Club - Philippines
been carefully selected to be the initial inductees and all the organ-
Banyan Golf Club – Thailand
isations have been successful in past Asian Golf Awards polls.
Black Mountain Golf Club – Thailand
Multiple recognitions in the Asian Golf Awards is not the only
BRG Kings’ Island Golf Resort – Vietnam
measure for these clubs to be hand-picked to be honoured with the
DLF Golf & Country Club – India
Asia Pacific Order of Zenith award. “All of the first batch of clubs
Hirono Golf Club - Japan
that have made the grade have also received numerous local coun-
Mission Hills Golf Club Haikou, Blackstone Course -
try awards, regional and international awards which all amount to
Ria Bintan Golf Club – Indonesia
universal recognition of their respective standings in the region,”
Sentosa Golf Club – Singapore
Sebastian explained.
Sky72 Golf & Resort – South Korea
The first batch of golf clubs to be honoured with this very distinguished award include the following:
BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB – THAILAND
Thai Country Club – Thailand TPC Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia
otf n n is ut ictio n b tiole, erfe c fenab e p ch r Pettai has catce a e c an en w e c ll DI w xceOMBAR e VINCE L
D
-
GIVEN THE LONG AND IM IMPRESSIVE HISTORY OF THE ASIAN GOLF AWARDS, IT WAS GENERALLY FELT THAT THE TIME HAD COME FOR THE CREATION OF A SPECIAL AWARD THAT WOULD SEEK OUT AND
- China
HONOUR THE ABSOLUTE BEST AMONGST THE BEST.
A UNIQUE AWARD
DESIGNED TO RECOGNISE DISTINGUISHED GOLF CLUBS AND PERMANENTLY ENSHRINE THESE CLUBS IN A HALLOWED CLASS ALL THEIR OWN. THE CREATION OF THE
ASIA PACIFIC ORDER OF ZENITH.
BRG KINGS’ ISLAND GOLF RESORT – VIETNAM
HENCE,
DLF GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB – INDIA
Per to fec d t butendo wiiton h has excprodh thas ell uc e thteo do en t, pro witce c h - JER ess RY M ORAN
HIRONO GOLF CLUB - JAPAN
Each of the premier clubs celled itself in terms of operati
course, its club house facilities
quality golfing experience to bo
The official induction of the
during the 2018 Asian Golf Awa
Bangkok, Thailand on Novembe
Sukhumvit. The award ceremon
Summit which will be staged fr
RIA BINTAN GOLF CLUB – INDONESIA
on the award list has distinguished and ex-
ng a golf club noted for the quality of its golf and services and its commitment to deliver a
oth members and guests alike.
e select group of golf clubs will take place
ards Gala Banquet that will be staged in
er 3 at the brand new Hyatt Regency Bangkok
ny will be part of the 2018 Asia Pacific Golf
rom November 1 – 3.
MISSION HILLS GOLF CLUB HAIKOU, BLACKSTONE COURSE - CHINA
THAI COUNTRY CLUB – THAILAND
Ex alwcaellenc ys se e - EARL NIGHTIN lls GALE
SENTOSA GOLF CLUB – SINGAPORE
SKY72 GOLF & RESORT – SOUTH KOREA
dstick e Be a yalrit om of qua arye.nS’t used people nvironment to an e excellence where cted is expe - STEVE JOBS
TPC KUALA LUMPUR – MALAYSIA
The little golf equi This time around woods and irons. ahead of the field system that the fo become the littles
I
t’s latest product is the Exotics CBX iron-wood set, a highly revolutionary design that features
The set that
a hollow body design. It is the first complete
combine
iron-wood set designed specifically for the avid
for golfe
golfer.
behind t
pment manufacturer Tour Edge is back at what it does best – INNOVATION! , the 30-year old company has launched a unique hollow-body set of Unlike a lot of equipment manufacturers, the ethos of Tour Edge to stay d is to “spend money on materials, not marketing!” It is upon this belief ounder and President of Tour Edge, David Glod has built up his company to st big golf company in the tough business of equipment manufacturing!
Exotics CBX iS (iron-wood set) is a revolutionary
consists of all ironwoods; a hollow-body design
ed with a traditional forged iron look and feel rs seeking next-level performance. The idea
he Exotics CBX iS is to produce the distance and
forgiveness of a metalwood combined with the feel and control of a forged iron set with progressive offsets to match from club to club. Tour Edge’s Glod truly revolutionized the golf world when he first introduced a hollow-body iron design and
trademarked the iron-wood name over a decade ago.
same time to replace traditional irons,” said Tour Edge
“We were a little ahead of our time with our first hollow-
Executive Vice President John Craig.” The golf market has been heading more and more
body iron design,” said Glod. “But now we feel we have constructed the best of what’s out there in the hollow
to a new segment called ‘Better Player Game Improve-
iron market with a driving iron-like club that sets up like
ment.’ The Exotics CBX iron-wood set falls into this new
a blade and delivers power like a metalwood.”
segment by offering the avid golfer everything they look
“The Exotics CBX Iron-wood is a club the best play-
for in a traditional iron along with the benefits of hollow-
ers in the world have sought out and have won with. The
body technology that will increase their distance and ball
feedback came in almost immediately after we launched
speed by a considerable amount.
the Exotics CBX Iron-wood in 2-5 irons that there was a
The biggest difference over designs of the past is
demand for this iron-wood in a full set,” Glod revealed.
that with the new clubs, a golfer can control each club
“This launch is following a pattern of more and more
very easily. This is the one reason why Tour Edge is
driving irons and hollow body irons being in play on the
launching the CBX iron-wood in a complete iron set from
PGA TOUR, with multiple irons being put into play at the
2-A wedge.
THE EXOTICS CBX IRON-WOOD IS A CLUB THE BEST PLAYERS IN THE WORLD HAVE SOUGHT OUT AND HAVE WON WITH.
THE FEEDBACK CAME IN ALMOST
IMMEDIATELY AFTER WE LAUNCHED THE
EXOTICS CBX IRON-WOOD IN 2-5 IRONS THAT THERE WAS A DEMAND FOR THIS IRON-WOOD IN A FULL SET,
– DAVID GLOD
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ROTATIONAL SUPP OR T · STABILIT Y · DURA BILIT Y
100% waterproof GORE-TEX®
ECCO Tri-Fi-Grip ® outsole technology
ECCO YAK leather upper
construction and
for excellent grip, stability,
for increased breathability
HYDROMAX® treated leather.
durability & flexibility.
and durability.
BALL GOING TOO FAR – WHAT THE RULEMAKERS SAY The rule-makers of golf, those guys who closet themselves at the R&A and the USGA seem to be doing their damnedest to curtail how far the modern golf ball goes. It’s an issue that has caused these guys to become so concerned that they have even gone to the extent of investing some serious cash to commission studies to evaluate how far the golf ball has increased in distance since 2015. And guess what? The startling revelation of these studies have pointed to a significant rise of just 0.2 yards per year since 2003. The reported distance increase over the years is not necessarily mind-numbing statistics but it is something that fiddling bureaucrats are expected to spend energy-sapping hours trying to process and endeavour to reach a conclusion as promptly as possible. While they labour through the process, both bodies have given this assurance: “Ultimately, the R&A and the USGA remain steadfastly committed to ensuring a sustainable and enjoyable future for golf.”
WHAT THE OTHER SIDE HAS TO SAY Two of the biggest proponents against the argument are the PGA Tour and the PGA of America. The PGA Tour’s commissioner, Jay Monahan fired a salvo disputing the stand taken by both the R&A and the USGA. Monahan is on record as stating that the Tour does not believe “the trends indicate a significant or abnormal increase”. He pointed out: “Rest assured, we will continue to collaborate and share data with the USGA and the R&A and we are hopeful our perspectives will align.” The reaction from the PGA of America was a lot harsher when its CEO, Pete Bevacqua, declared: “We are highly sceptical that rolling back the golf ball in whole or part will be in the best interest of the sport and our collective efforts to grow the game.” The ball manufacturing industry is also not pleased especially Titleist, without doubt the world’s largest manufacturer of golf balls, including the Tour-proven Pro VI and Pro VIx. The big shots have not been fired yet by it’s new CEO and President David Maher responded by saying: “We continue to believe equipment innovation has benefited golfers at all levels, and our analysis of the 2017 Distance Report affirms that the USGA and The R&A have effective regulations in place to ensure the game’s health and sustainability. We look forward to continued dialogue with the governing bodies and stakeholders as we seek to position the great game of golf for future success.” Rest assured that any move to reduce the distance of golf balls will face a lot of push-back from the ball industry!
Against this backdrop of moves to try and cut back on the distance travelled by a golf ball, Titleist, the world’s number one brand in golf balls has stepped up to the penalty spot and blasted a net-ripping shot by launching a brand new ball that is all about more DISTANCE! Call it arrogance or corporate bravado but with the launch, Titleist is not showing any signs of cutting back on how far its golf balls go, at least for the time being!
T
he company’s latest stable member is the
Here’s a deep-dive look at the AVX and its new tech-
much talked-about AVX which is being
nologies:
pushed out into the global marketplace with
Q An innovative high speed, low compression core tech-
some impressive claims of performance and
nology results in a powerful engine to drive remarkable
distance.
distance with exceptionally soft feel.
Before the new ball was unveiled to the world, it was
Q The invention of a new high flex casing layer enhances
subjected to a comprehensive test market conducted
speed and controls spin to promote even greater distance.
in Arizona, California and Florida from October 2017 to
Q The proprietary GRN41 thermoset cast urethane elas-
January 2018. This pre-roll out experiment resulted in the
tomer cover has been specifically formulated by Titleist
resounding validation of AVX, particularly among golfers who
Golf Ball R&D to deliver premium scoring control with
prioritize distance and extremely soft feel.
exceptionally soft feel and long-lasting durability.
The pre-testing categorically proved that the new AVX
Q A unique catenary aerodynamic design delivers a pierc-
ball is indeed a new high performance golf ball providing
ing, low trajectory while providing a consistent ball flight
remarkable distance and exceptionally soft feel through
on all shots.
proprietary core, cover and aerodynamic technologies.
Q AVX is offered in both white and high-optic yellow.
Commenting on the AVX, Mike Mahoney, vice president, Titleist Golf Ball Marketing said, “Golfers have spoken loud and clear about the performance of AVX ….. while our R&D team is constantly exploring new golf ball technologies, only a limited number of prototypes ever make it past the initial machine and player testing phases.” According to Mahoney, AVX stood out from the beginning. “Ultimately, it was important to let golfers decide whether this golf ball had a place in our line and the results of our test market were emphatic and many golfers were waiting for a product like AVX – our lowest flying, lowest spinning and softest feeling high performance golf ball – to help them play their best.”
DURING THE TEST MARKET, WE HEARD FROM A LOT OF GOLFERS PLAYING COMPETITIVE MODELS WHO REALIZED THEY HAD BEEN GIVING UP PERFORMANCE IN ORDER TO PLAY A SOFTER FEELING GOLF BALL,”
MAHONEY SAID. “WITH AVX,
NOT ONLY WERE THEY GETTING THE FEEL THAT THEY LOVE, THEY WERE ALSO GETTING LONGER DISTANCE WITH GREAT PERFOR-
– AND THEY WERE PLAYING BETTER. THAT’S THE REASON MANCE IN THE SHORT GAME
SO MANY GOLFERS ARE TALKING ABOUT THIS GOLF BALL.
“During the test market, we heard from a lot of golfers playing competitive models who realized they had been giving up performance in order to play a softer feeling golf ball,” Mahoney said. “With AVX, not only were they getting the feel that they love, they were also getting longer distance with great performance in the short game – and they were playing better. That’s the reason so many golfers are talking about this golf ball.”
In conjunction with the launch of the new AVX golf ball, ASIAN GOLF reached out to Titleist to have some questions answered. These were addressed by Mike Mahoney and the following are excerpts:
AVX HAS ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DESIGNED TO PERFORM ON ALL SHOTS THROUGHOUT YOUR ROUND. IT DOES DELIVER REMARKABLE DISTANCE, PARTICULARLY WITH A GOLFER’S IRONS. ASIAN GOLF: What was is it that got Titleist to start on the AVX golf ball? MIKE MAHONEY: The Titleist AVX golf ball is the result of more than a decade of research both in the R&D department and with golfers. AVX delivers technology that allows golfers to play a very soft product with sacrificing the performance attributes we’ve typically seen in other soft golf balls. To deliver an exceptionally soft golf ball with premium performance characteristics, it required breakthrough technology from core to cover.
ASIAN GOLF: The company has a ball to fit virtually every competitive market sector – that said, where is the new AVX going to fit in? MAHONEY: AVX is third performance option in the premium category. Pro V1 delivers optimal performance for the majority of golfers looking to play their best. Pro V1x provides higher flight, firmer feel, and more spin than Pro V1. AVX delivers lower flight, softer feel, and less spin than Pro V1.
ASIAN GOLF: The AVX is a distance ball and this should appeal to most avid golfers – however, considering its low flight trajectory, how does it handle coming in to greens? MAHONEY: I wouldn’t characterize AVX as a distance ball. AVX has advanced technology designed to perform on all shots throughout your round. It does deliver remarkable distance, particularly with a golfer’s irons. That said, AVX is
designed with a proprietary GRN41 cast urethane cover that helps provide exceptional short game spin and control.
ASIAN GOLF: In most tests that have been conducted on the AVX versus its stable-mates, the Pro V1 and Pro V1X, there seems to be very little to differentiate between the balls on distance recorded off a driver. However, there seems to be definite gains on iron play, especially with wedges. Talk to this. MAHONEY: AVX gets its distance characteristics off of irons from its low spin construction. For golfers who have higher spin or flight launch conditions, AVX can help golfers dial in their performance and gain distance with their irons.
ASIAN GOLF: Are tour professional expected to put the AVX in play? MAHONEY: We’ll see. We don’t currently have any tour players playing AVX today but should they have an interest, it will certainly be available to them.
ASIAN GOLF: The Pro V1s have been the absolute kingpins on tour – should the AVX make its push into this area of play, do you envisage a cannibalisation effect on the Pro V1s? MAHONEY: AVX is an incremental performance option and we expect many golfers to choose AVX to come from outside the current Titleist family. That said, we expect some Pro V1 golfers will like AVX but we don’t expect it to fundamentally change Pro V1s position in the market.
Tof the 21st Century is just around he end of the second decade
the corner. It’s a time during which the world has witnessed change and disruption on a scale never experienced before. Dominant old technologies have been unceremoniously dumped making way for new technologies that were never envisioned until recent times. Corporate behemoths like General Motors and IBM have been pushed off their lofty pedestals to make way for fastcharging corporate upstarts like Apple, Amazon and Google. The world and everything on it has been turned on its head – but it has all proved to be for the better. It has brought about change on an unprecedented scale. Individuals, corporations and nations that have been quick to Ãi âi > ` i }>}i Ü Ì V > } } ÌÀi `Ã] >Ûi Lii Ài>« } Ì i Li iwÌÃ v disruption. The pace of change is something that the golf industry needs to seize and i }>}i Ü Ì }Ài>Ì }ÕÃÌ ° Ì ii`Ã Ì w ` iÜ > ` iÝV Ì } Ü>ÞÃ Ì V «i younger generations to take up the game and replace the rapidly depleting legions of older players from past generations. New formats of play must be
explored; the must be factored young; costs of equip must be made affordable a must be reduced. Golf needs a new cater and retain new blood.
/ i Ì i Ì i }>}i à Üt / i Óä£n Ƃà > 2018) will serve as a platform to explore, d mindset to break free from tradition and em Ü>ÞÃ Ì > i } v >ÌÌÀ>VÌ Ûi] Û >L i > ` «À Talk alone is not good enough. It’s time to
APGS – The 12th edition. One Of The Industry’s B
e element of fun d in to appeal to the pment and apparel and the cost to play w template to draw in,
*>V wV v -Õ Ì Ƃ* - iscuss and come up with a new mbrace revolutionary new path wÌ>L i >VÀ ÃÃ Ì i L >À`° ACT and ENGAGE!
Best!
I
f there is one name in golf that ASIAN GOLF will
entrepreneur and holder of several paten
genuflect and raise both arms to as a mark of
products. He has had a highly chequered
respect it is Barney Adams. This is one guy who took
cluded working as an engineer in Corning
on the mighty names in golf equipment and built
Valley start-up making microprocessors b
a brand name that is still revered by many golfers
now defunct Dave Pelz Golf, a company th
worldwide. Had it not been for Barney, there would have been no
before Barney stepped in and turned it in
Adams Golf and Adams Tights Lies – the greatest saviours for many
generating over US$80 million at its heig
golfers, including those at ASIAN GOLF. The publisher, Mike Sebas-
bought out by TaylorMade Golf.
tian has a number of clubs from the great Adams organisation and
There’s no escaping the fact that Ba
he maintains them in mint condition. “Like Callaway’s old Warbirds,
golf and as the old adage goes, you just
these are clubs that possess both the dynamics and mechanics to
down! And we are darn glad! Since he st
do well in today’s modern game!” Enough said about Adams Golf …..
active involvement with golf, he did not w
so what’s so remarkable about Barney making a comeback you may
He hung around. Shared his thoughts ab
ask? Well to start with, he has made a breakthrough in technology
controversial. Did some writing. Played s
and at 78, this is a stupendous game-changer! Nothing that will
a good amount of time saltwater fly fish
really surprise those who know Barney who incidentally is a serial
enjoying the good life!
nts on golf career which in-
g Glass, a Silicon
before joining the
hat went bankrupt
to a power-house
ht before it was
arney is a legend in
can’t keep a good man
tepped down in 2012 from
walk away from the industry.
bout the industry, often
some golf and now spends
hing. Put simply, the man’s
Like the serial entrepreneur that he is, Barney has hit the road again and this time, he’s got his cross-hairs aimed at bringing innovation to a sector of the golf industry that has not seen any change in more than half a century. The sector that caught his eye was putter shafts. Putter shafts you say? What technology is there in those little sticks that connect to a putter head! Well, Barney does not see it that way – he felt that the time was ripe for some serious disruption and he single-handedly embarked on an ambitious plan to give the putter shaft a big hefty kick up its pants!
S
The “
a former
Barney fo ogy, he w be signifi
S
o typical of the feisty guy that he is, Barney has launched the revolutionary Breakthrough Golf company and his product is the “Stability Shaft”. What on earth is a “stability shaft”? – glad you asked because it’s really disruptive technology that uses a scientifically advanced multi-material design with geometries never before used in putter shafts.
“stability shaft” is a product born out of a relationship between Barney and employee of YES Golf (manufacturers of great putters), Blair Philip. When
ound out about what Philip was up to with his new-fangled shaft technol-
asted no time. “When I first learned about the product I knew that it could
cant. It’s a step forward in golf equipment technology. What has been
rewarding for me is that the “stability shaft works better
BREAKTHROUGH GOLF
for amateurs”.
PLAYERS WILL GET A HIGHER
Now you are talking Barney! Any product that will help amateur golfers sink more putts and guzzle down more beers at the 19th hole is always welcome! So, how does the “stability shaft” work? This is where it gets real technical but we will nevertheless roll it out for those of you who are technically inclined.
PROMISES
‘SMASH FACTOR,’ HIT THE CLUBFACE MORE CONSISTENTLY AND ULTIMATELY MAKE MORE PUTTS.
According to Barney, there are four parts of the “stability shaft” that work together to improve putting performance. There are eight layers of high modulus carbon fibre specifically layered, wrapped and widened, with a
Makes sense? What the heck, even if it does not, it’s the greatest thing since sliced bread and it’s the end result that really matters! Step in Barney to explain: “The “stability shaft” delivers
no-taper design to greatly reduce torque. Through ‘Finite
the face more squarely at impact for improved accuracy, solid
Element Analysis’, a lightweight 22g aluminium insert
feel and has a lower launch for a predictable roll.” That makes
was developed and precisely located to reinforce flexural
a whole lotta sense! Breakthrough Golf promises players will
rigidity. A 7075-aluminium connector that helps to stiffen
get a higher ‘Smash Factor,’ hit the clubface more consistently
and reinforce. This versatility, according to Barney, allows
and ultimately make more putts.
attachment to virtually any tip diameter of any putter,
And to think that golfers had to wait for more than half a
regardless of the bend profile. The stainless-steel tips have
century to get this shaft into their hands. Thank heavens for
extremely consistent wall thicknesses for greater strength
Barney and his friend Blair Philip because if it was not for you
and are coated with a smoke PVD finish to add protection
guys, the majority of us amateur golfers will still be struggling
from corrosion and rusting.
to make putts!
What about the professionals – how will the “stability shaft” work for these guys who look upon the putter as their money machines? “Pros are great putters and while the shaft does help them, it’s the inconsistency of the amateur that it corrects most,” was Barney’s quick response. The “stability shaft” has a unique look and a more solid feel than a traditional steel putter shaft. And most importantly, it works! Welcome back Barney! Good to have you back in the mainstream of golf!
I am THONGCHAI JAIDEE 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. As a family man, Black Mountain is safe and a perfect place to grow my family. 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 the heck is this all about? What has it got to do with golf? Have you guys lost y
Actually, all the reactions are perfectly in order? We in the golf club industry should ing these very questions of ourselves. Too frequently, many of us who are charged w responsibility of operating golf clubs forget that we are in the business of providing service. Not just a service but a service that is directly related to the entertainment, leisure, food and beverage and sports and recreational service industries. It is no di ferent to any other organization in the hospitality and leisure industry. This article has been written not to serve as an admonishment but as a reminder to what the true mission is in the business of operating golf clubs. Perhaps now the question posed in the headline to this article will make more sense! It is actually a Chinese saying but we were not able to ďŹ nd out who said it. Nevertheless, it ďŹ ts the occasion or in this case, the article!
your marbles?
be askwith the a
f-
I
mea
b
are
able reve no-brainer for
age catering faciliti
and it is all just wai
piles of cash. But th
accepting sub-stan
case with many gol
GOLFERS ARE GENERALLY SOPHISTICATED WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR CHOICE AND TASTE IN FOOD.
AND ALL THAT NEEDS TO BE DONE IS TO ATTEND TO THEIR NEEDS AND SERVE UP GOOD FOOD AND A GREAT SELECTION OF BEVERAGES BECAUSE THEREIN
in B
it is able
from a go
US$100,00
One does
simple formula. ASIAN GOLF,
the time was oppor
LIES AN OPPORTUNITY TO ADD
brought this topic in
TO THE REVENUE STREAM OF A
enced executive che
GOLF CLUB.
Golf Club. “We have
t is a widely known fact that golf clubs, at least
SINGAPORE’S AWARD-WINNING GOLF CLUB, SENTOSA GOLF CLUB. “WE HAVE A
a good many of them are facing difficulties in generating revenue, and the bulk of the effort in seeking out revenue is focused on rounds booked and played. It is understandable that the common
asure of success of a golf club has traditionally been
based on the number of rounds turned over in a
REPUTATION OF BEING
month or a year. This is fine so long as there is a strong demand from golfers but in the context
THE BEST IN ALL
of this article, the general consensus seems to point towards times being tough for clubs
ASPECTS OF OUR
to pump up revenue from rounds given that
OPERATION AND WE
the game is in a state of general decline in most parts of the world. So, what are the options? There are many, but we have elected to shine the spotlight on one
DEEMED IT NECESSARY TO UPGRADE OUR ENTIRE FOOD AND BEVERAGE OPERATION AND SERVICE AND, IN THIS REGARD, WE
K.K. KONG.
a that can be developed into a strong and sustain-
BROUGHT ON BOARD
enue stream. It is food and beverage and it is really a
– ANDY JOHNSTON, GENERAL MANAGER, SENTOSA GOLF CLUB
golf club operators. All clubs have food and beveres. There are cafes, restaurants and dining halls ting to be tapped and transformed into generating
here is a catch! The consumer cannot be duped into
operation and we deemed it necessary
dard products and services, which sadly, is often the
to upgrade our entire food and bever-
f clubs.
age operation and service and, in this
Golfers are generally sophisticated when it comes to their choice and taste in food. And all that needs to be done is to attend to their needs and serve up good food and a great selection of
regard, we brought on board K.K. Kong (pictured)”, said Andy Johnston, general manager of the club. Ever since K.K. came on board, Sen-
beverages because therein lies an
tosa’s club menu has been completely
opportunity to add to the revenue
revamped and given a whole polished
stream of a golf club.
look. The changes in the food and
Reckon by now, everyone gets
beverage and the service standards have
K.K. KONG
the point! In the words of a
been monumental and the fact that the
seasoned club general man-
F&B outlets at the club are very well patronized is testimony to the all
ager, John Blanch who manages the internationally acclaimed Thai Country Club
round stepped up quality made possible by the chef and his team. We know that this article will draw the attention of many golf
angkok, “If a club has 50,000 rounds per year and
club members and golfers in the region because these are the
e to eke out an extra US$2 per round on F&B spend
people who have been deprived of good food and good service for too
olfer during their visit that would be an additional
long. At least now they can feel assured that a critical focus is being
0 per year in revenue.”
paid to the F&B operations of golf clubs with a view to bringing about
s not need to be a rocket scientist to understand the
change – hopefully change that will be both paradigm in nature and
It simply works so long as it is done right! as the Continent’s leading golf publication felt that
sustainable. To help present a well-rounded case on how food and beverage
rtune to confront this issue head-on. What actually
works in an operational setting, ASIAN GOLF reached out to some of
nto sharp focus was the appointment of an experi-
the top golf clubs in the region. The clubs featured are Banyan Golf
ef by Singapore’s award-winning golf club, Sentosa
Club in Hua Hin Thailand, TPC KL in Malaysia, Thai Country Club in
e a reputation of being the best in all aspects of our
Thailand and Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand.
IN A WORD THE PRINCIPAL OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE IN GOLF
“In a word the principal of food and beverage in golf clubs is all about creating ‘excitement’. We have achieved this at Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin with our members and visitors. Golf club’s need a 19th hole – a real one, a spike bar – not a lounge or a restaurant that looks
CLUBS IS ALL ABOUT
ready for a banquet. A proper bar with ice-cold
CREATING ‘EXCITE-
draught beer and that’s where Banyan is a
MENT’.
winner with an Irish Bar at Mulligan’s we put in
WE HAVE
ACHIEVED THIS AT
BANYAN GOLF CLUB,
a cooler and python beer line system to serve fresh ice cold pints of lager and cider. On top of this, we built a food and bever-
HUA HIN WITH OUR MEMBERS AND GOLF CLUB’S NEED A 19TH HOLE – A REAL ONE, A SPIKE BAR – NOT A
age culture which begins with recruitment of
LOUNGE OR A RESTAURANT THAT LOOKS
blow away the palate. One of our signature
READY FOR A BANQUET.
events is Golf and Wine, a golf competition
VISITORS.
A PROPER BAR
WITH ICE-COLD DRAUGHT BEER AND THAT’S WHERE
BANYAN IS A WINNER WITH AN IRISH BAR AT MULLIGAN’S WE PUT IN A COOLER AND PYTHON BEER LINE SYSTEM TO SERVE FRESH ICE COLD PINTS OF LAGER AND CIDER.
– STACEY WALTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GLS ASIA LIMITED
passionate service minded team members and an Executive Chef that is creative and excited about how to present menus and recipes that
with a 5-course dinner menu that’s a culinary explosion matched with a variety of wines. The success of this event every month stems down to the team who have a love for seeing the excitement in our members and guest experience. This is where the WOW factor comes in when it came to procurement of chinaware and equipment we even tried using tiles, slate and
all things big and elegant. Royal Lacewood in Thailand must have the best when it comes to magnificent and creative operating equipment. It’s a business and a profitable one. We use KPI’s such as average F&B spend, food cost 40%, beverage cost 30% and an operating profit of no less than 30%. Some menu engineering required to measure what sells or not. When it comes to icons we have established a sunshine logo for breakfast for example which comes with the biggest and best full English breakfast guaranteed. We have the “Banyan” Burger it’s big, juicy and loaded with cheese, bacon and all the trimmings and is served on a piece of black slate that wins our members and guests over every time so it is no wonder that our burgers are the biggest seller. So, lets go back to the principal of food and beverage - it is all about creating “excitement” on the menu, in the team and now with social media we can go wild with creating the excitement at your golf club and members will follow and trust that when they eat or drink it is an experience.”
“We in the golf industry are so lucky in that golfers come
on them being order makers and not order takers introduc
to play at our courses and so we are guaranteed foot traffic for
ing new dishes or making recommendations. Talking to the
our F&B outlets without any competition. With this constant
members and guests and keeping their eye on the table so
foot traffic it is vital to maximize this F&B opportunity.
that when a glass is half full that they quickly approach the
At Thai Country Club we take pride in our F&B offering as it is a significant contributor to our total revenue and so we have to keep aiming higher. With F&B being a great revenue
customer to replenish the glass. That extra $2 per round mentioned earlier is not so difficult with attentive staff!
We are fortunate as we have resources within the Pen
generator it is very important to invest well in the staff. Our
insula Hotel Group to call upon to assist with our F&B oper
Executive Chef and F&B Manager both come from a 5- star
tion. However, if we didn’t, I would engage an F&B consulta
hotel background. They have the knowledge, experience
/ specialist to work with and develop your team and expose
and passion to drive our F&B operation on a daily basis –
them to new ideas. It’s also very important not to forget abo
constantly innovating and creating new concepts to keep the
your back-of-house staff as well. Members and guests may
customer attracted and engaged.
not interact with back-of-house staff as often, but dysfunct
We are constantly training our service staff with the focus
inside the kitchen impacts service outside of the kitchen.”
AT THAI COUNTRY CLUB WE TAKE PRIDE IN OUR F&B OFFERING AS IT IS A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTOR TO OUR TOTAL REVENUE AND SO WE HAVE TO KEEP AIMING HIGHER.
WITH F&B BEING A GREAT REVENUE GENERATOR IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO INVEST WELL IN THE STAFF. OUR EXECUTIVE CHEF AND F&B MANAGER BOTH COME FROM A 5- STAR HOTEL BACKGROUND. THEY HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND PASSION TO DRIVE OUR F&B OPERATION ON A DAILY BASIS – CONSTANTLY INNOVATING AND CREATING NEW CONCEPTS TO KEEP THE CUSTOMER ATTRACTED AND ENGAGED. – JOHN BLANCH, GENERAL MANAGER, THAI COUNTRY CLUB
-
e
e
n-
ra-
ant
e
out
y
tion
H
D
Y
FOOD AND BEVERAGE IS A MAINSTAY AT BLACK MOUNTAIN AND IT IS SOMETHING THAT IS FIRMLY ENTRENCHED IN OUR HERITAGE.
FROM THE VERY BEGINNING,
“Food and beverage is a mainstay at Bla Mountain and it is something that is firmly e
in our heritage. From the very beginning, our
OUR FOUNDER MADE IT ABUNDANTLY CLEAR TO
made it abundantly clear to all of us that a h
ALL OF US THAT A HAPPY GOLFER IS A GOLFER
is a golfer who has enough good food to eat a
WHO HAS ENOUGH GOOD FOOD TO EAT AND GOOD WINE TO DRINK.
THAT SET THE TONE FOR THE CLUB AND WE ARE
wine to drink. That set the tone for the club a
proud that our food and beverage is a main c towards our total revenue picture.
It is an area that we are constantly revie
changing because we want to make sure tha and beverage offerings do not become stale
PROUD THAT OUR FOOD
In this regard, we are happy to note that Blac
AND BEVERAGE IS A MAIN
tain has engaged a top Swedish chef who ha
CONTRIBUTOR TOWARDS
Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe and
OUR TOTAL REVENUE PICTURE.
– HARALD ELISSON, MANAGING DIRECTOR, BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB
our executive chef and is cooking up a real s
wonderful dishes for our members and our g
The fact that we have gone to great leng
bring onboard experienced and quality perso
our food and beverage department is demon
of the great importance that we attach to F&
ack
role that it plays in keeping our revenue growing at a
ntrenched
steady pace.”
r founder
While food and beverage is not a topic that one
appy golfer
would expect to see in a golf magazine, ASIAN GOLF
and good
thinks differently. We think that F&B is a critical aspect
and we are
of a golf club’s operation and when this part of the
contributor
operation works, it keeps golfers and members happy which in turn has a direct impact at the cash register.
ewing and
A well run food and beverage operation in a club is an
at our food
integral part of a golf club’s engine. Run it well, and it’ll
and boring.
ck Moun-
s worked in
he is now
torm of
guests.
gths to
onnel into
nstrative
&B and the
do its job. Run it shabbily …….. We’ll let you draw your own conclusions!
AT TPC KUALA LUMPUR, WE TAKE OUR MEMBER AND GUEST DINING EXPERIENCE VERY SERIOUSLY FOR WE DO HAVE AN INTERESTING MIX OF LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL GUESTS.
HENCE, WE HAVE AN EXTENSIVE WE HAVE FOOD OPTIONS THAT SPECIALLY CATER FOR KIDS, ADULT AND SENIOR PEOPLE. – STEVEN THIELKE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, LIST OF MENU TO MATCH THAT DIVERSE PALATE.
TPC KUALA LUMPUR
“At TPC Kuala Lumpur, we take our member and guest dining experience very seriously for we do have an interesting mix of local and international guests. Hence, we have an extensive list of menu to match that diverse palate. We have food options that specially cater for kids, adult and senior people. Going green and eating healthy is the “in” thing now for millennials and to keep up with the trend and demands, we are dedicated in delivering healthy menu options by using choice and organic ingredients. Less than a year ago, TPC Kuala Lumpur embarked on a ‘WOW’ programme that aims to create unique and memorable experiences such as a free trial of D.I.Y. Teh Tarik (tea)) making session or learning and trying a few tricks off tossing the famous roti canai (a Malaysian delicacy).”
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/
You’ve just got to love this guy! He’s nuts over Yeezy Sneakers (they cost a bomb!). He can’t stay away from quality watches. He just loves to feel the roar of an Italian thoroughbred as he slams down the pedal to the metal. And he’s simply crazy about golf! Now, what’s not to like about this guy? He is that affable Thai golfer who seems poised to capture some serious attention on the PGA Tour in America. He’s 28-years old, madly in love with two great women in his life - his Mother and his wife. And he loves his food, especially Thai food!
K
iradech Aphibarnrat, you’ve got to meet this
was impressed with the Thai star. Cowen stuck his neck out
guy to really appreciate him. He is down to
to declare that Kiradech has the golf game to succeed on the
earth and an all-round fun guy to be with.
PGA TOUR.
Besides all this, he is also Thailand’s hottest golfer and arguably the best professional
golfer in all of Asia! While Kiradech was at Ponte Vedra Beach in Florida
Wow! That is some serious endorsement and it is not something to be taken lightly. Guys like Cowen know a star when they see one and Kiradech fits the bill perfectly! At the time of writing this report, Kiradech was ranked
recently, getting ready for The Players Championship, ASIAN
No. 32 on the Official World Golf Ranking list. He has been
GOLF got wind that his American swing coach Pete Cowen
helped to this very high ranking by Cowen and his aide Mike
shots, he loves the draw shots but his best shot is probably the fade,” said Cowen. “We’re leaving all the natural good stuff in there and we’ve had to make sure his body position is right for his delivery as his swing gets really quick which is great if you get into the right positions. All we can do with anybody’s golf swing is narrow the deviation and avoid the big misses and ensure the swing path is a lot more neutral and then you can use your body to shape the shots,” said Cowen. Kiradech’s fine run this year has seen him produce top-five finishes at the World Golf Championships-Mexico Championship and World Golf Championships-Dell
LOOKING BACK AT THE WGCS, I’VE SHOWN I CAN KNOCK ON THE DOOR IN THOSE BIG EVENTS AND AT THE MAJORS,
I’M
… IF I CAN KEEP UP MY FORM, I DON’T THINK THE TROPHY IS FAR AWAY FROM ME. MAKING MORE CUTS
Technologies Match Play, which has left him on the verge of earning Special Temporary Membership with the PGA TOUR. This will allow him unlimited sponsor exemptions for the remainder of the season and if he finishes inside the top-125 of the FedExCup points standing, he will become the first Thai to earn a PGA TOUR card. “Looking back at the WGCs, I’ve shown I can knock on the door in those big events and at the majors, I’m making more cuts … if I can keep up my form, I don’t think the trophy is far away from me,” said Kiradech. Walker and both these coaches are of the opinion that since
“I’m getting closer and closer to earning my PGA
Kiradech can shoot very low, it’s a quality that will stand him
TOUR card which will be a dream come true. I’ll be ready
in good stead as he plays his game in America..
to move to America,” he said excitedly.
Cowen, who has worked with past PLAYERS Champions
ASIAN GOLF will be keeping a watch on Kiradech’s
and major winners Henrik Stenson and Sergio Garcia, likes
progress and given his focus, hard work and his incredible
what he sees in Kiradech after starting work with the Thai
passion to win, there’s only one route open to him. He is
since the beginning of last year. “He’s done everything well.
definitely headed for the stars on the PGA Tour and we
He’s happy as it’s the highest he’s been on the world ranking
wish him well on this exciting journey of his. Go get the job
and he wants it. You can see that. I like that he shapes a lot of
done Kiradech!
The United States vs The Interna Team. Twelve of the best Americ 12 of the ďŹ nest International golfe then, there’s Tiger Woods vs Erni
ational ans against ers. And ie Els.
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 2019 Presidents Cup, the clash between Team America and Team International. The PGA Tour’s Chuah Choo Chiang reports:
S
till 19 months to go before the stars descend at The Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Australia, the 2019 Presidents Cup is already being billed as the mother of all showdowns and it’s no surprise why. Two of the game’s icons, Tiger and Els, will captain the U.S. and International teams respectively from December 9-15, 2019, setting the stage for a match unlike any other considering their historic playoff duel in the dark in South Africa in 2003 which concluded with the only draw in the storied competition. The race to make the International team (excluding European golfers) will begin in earnest from August 27, 2018 where Official World Golf Ranking points accumulated during a 12-month period will see the leading eight international golfers locking their spots at Royal Melbourne, with another four players to be picked by Els. And this is where Asia’s leading golf stars, including a new and exciting generation of 20-somethings, are eager to fight their way into Els’ International Team or at least catch his attention. In eight previous editions since the inaugural match began in 1994, the International team has featured a
IT WOULD BE FANTASTIC IF I CAN MAKE IT TO THE PRESIDENTS CUP. IT’LL BE A DREAM COME TRUE,” SAID SHARMA. “WHEN I ATTENDED HIS CLINIC IN THE 2008 INDIAN MASTERS, HE (ELS) SAID I’LL BE A GREAT PLAYER ONE DAY IF I KEPT PRACTICING. AND FOR A KID LIKE ME WHO WAS ONLY 10 AT THAT TIME, IT JUST MADE MY DAY.
sprinkling of Japanese and Korean golfers including Jumbo Ozaki, Shigeki Maruyama, K.J. Choi and Y.E. Yang and it wasn’t until 2015 that the International team welcomed their first team members from India (Anirban Lahiri) and Thailand (Thongchai Jaidee). A captain’s pick last year, Lahiri expects a greater spread of Asia’s stalwarts to challenge for a place in the International Team, considering their success in recent times. And judging by his response, the Tiger-Ernie “wow” factor will provide the driving force for the young guns to fight for a team spot. “It’ll be a tantalizing contest (in 2019),” said Lahiri. “Tiger and Ernie have played arguably the most exciting moments in the Presidents Cup history. I don’t think there’s a Presidents Cup where I want to be more a part of, so I’ll be working really hard to get into the team again.” Lahiri, Asia’s No. 1 in 2015, reckons the new breed of young stars from China, India, Thailand and Malaysia could feature prominently for the International Team, who will be gunning for a second victory at Royal Melbourne, coincidently the site of the team’s lone triumph in the team competition in 1998. “We’ve had K.J, Y.E. and Hideki (Matsuyama) being stalwarts over the years but you can see that trend changing with guys from the other countries emerging as the strength of golf in Asia is improving dramatically. We’ve got Haotong Li and Shubhankar Sharma now and more will follow. Someone like Phachara (Khongwatmai) has the potential and Kiradech (Aphibarnrat) has played out of his skin this year. I definitely think over the next few years, more Asians will be in the Presidents Cup teams,” he said. At the time of writing, seven Asians currently feature in the world’s top-100 ranking including the 45th-ranked Haotong Li from China. The 22-year-old narrowly missed qualifying for the Presidents Cup last year but hopes to maintain his push in 2019. “Yeah, for sure (I want to play) since the last time I was nearly there but I didn’t get in. I just need to keep playing well and then hopefully get in next year. As no Chinese has played in the event before, I want to be the first,” said Li, who shot a final round 63 in the company of Els at The Open Championship where he finished third last July.
Following two impressive top-five finishes at the World Golf Championships this season, Kiradech, 28, hopes to emulate Thongchai’s feat by getting into Els’ team. The burly Thai came close three years ago but with his career trending upwards, the Thai star is upbeat. He said: “It’ll be an honour to be in the Presidents Cup. Everyone wants to be on that team.” Malaysia’s Gavin Green, the reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit winner, is another exciting prospect. The 24-year-old is keen to throw his name into the hat. “There are not too many people who will get the opportunity to play in the Presidents Cup, so it’s definitely on my radar, it’s on my goal list. The Presidents Cup is a big deal,” said Green.
IT’LL BE A TANTALIZING CONTEST (IN 2019),” SAID LAHIRI. “TIGER AND ERNIE HAVE PLAYED ARGUABLY THE MOST EXCITING MOMENTS
PRESIDENTS CUP HISTORY. I DON’T THINK THERE’S A PRESIDENTS CUP WHERE I WANT TO BE MORE A PART OF, SO I’LL BE WORKING REALLY HARD TO GET INTO THE TEAM AGAIN. IN THE
ANIRBAN LAHIRI
Japan’s world No. 9 Hideki Matsuyama and Satoshi Kodaira, who won his first PGA TOUR title in April, are tipped to also jostle for a spot in the International team alongside South Korea’s Si Woo Kim, THE PLAYERS champion in 2017, and India’s Shubhankar Sharma, 21. The Indian has taken the golfing world by storm following two victories in South Africa and Malaysia over the past seven months which he followed up with an eye-catching tied ninth performance at the WGC-Mexico Championship in March. Interestingly, Sharma caught Els’ eye as a 10-year-old during a golf clinic in India over a decade ago. “It would be fantastic if I can make it to the Presidents Cup. It’ll be a dream come true,” said Sharma. “When I attended his clinic in the 2008 Indian Masters, he (Els) said I’ll be a great player one day if I kept practicing. And for a kid like me who was only 10 at that time, it just made my day.” It’ll certainly make Asia’s day if a bunch of the continent’s stars tee up at Royal Melbourne and feature in an International team victory over the U.S.
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Too many of us golfers take things for granted. We think that golf is a game that needs no preparations. We think you can just grab your golf clubs, race out to a golf course and start playing a round of golf. Well, really – that’s not the way to plan for golf. ASIAN GOLF’s resident golf guru, Tony Meechai feels that to really enjoy golf, one needs to develop some good habits. He feels very strongly about this and rather than steal the thunder from him, here’s Tony!
S
o you just bought a new driver or are planning on taking a golf vacation
add to that, they were hung over! The moral of this story is simple. Develop a
soon. That’s great but before you
habit to always be prepared for a game of golf if
proceed any further, here are two
you want to enjoy the game. Professionals get to
habits that I’d like to have you develop
the golf course very early and begin a stretching
to make your investment worth it! To make my point, recently I was with a few golfers who were visiting Bangkok and they had
and warm-up routine that is very effective and they make it a habit. I do understand that many of today’s golfers
made plans to play three rounds of golf and the
have limited time and often rush to the first tee.
plans were made a year earlier.
But, I’m going to make an argument that you have
On arrival, they rushed out onto the course and guess what? After nine holes they were all ex-
to stop doing that for the good of your health and your game so that you can enjoy your day!
hausted and one golfer suffered from leg cramps.
To fully enjoy your day on the golf course, here
It was a struggle but they managed to get through
are two simple habits that are good for you! I make
the first 18 holes, but had to cancel the next day
sure every student is aware of this before training
because they needed time to recover after the
even begins. So, here’s how it’s done:.
ordeal. These guys were aged between 25-30. As they sat slumped in the clubhouse, I met up with them and had a good laugh at their expense!
HABIT #1: WARM-UP YOUR BODY
Like many golfers, they rushed to the first tee after
Begin each day with a simple stretching exercise
having had a raucous night on the town the night
starting from your head and working your way
before. They did not have sufficient sleep and to
down to your toes.
DEVELOP A HABIT TO ALWAYS BE PREPARED FOR A GAME OF GOLF IF YOU WANT TO ENJOY THE GAME.
PROFES-
SIONALS GET TO THE GOLF COURSE VERY EARLY AND BEGIN A STRETCHING AND WARM-UP ROUTINE THAT IS VERY EFFECTIVE AND THEY MAKE IT A HABIT.
HABIT #2: HYDRATE Drink a lot of water. From my experience, you cannot drink enough water. So, when you wake up in the morning, drink at least 1 litre before leaving your house and another litre on the way to the golf course. Before you tee off, I always remind my students to drink a bottle of water. You can do this as you warm-up, too. It all sounds very simple, but it’s a must that you develop these two habits and use them before your round of golf. It will make a lot of difference to your game. Simply take care of your body and you’ll have more great life moments playing golf! Happy golfing!
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.