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ISSUE ASIAN GOLF has elected to tell this story because it is testimony to how a golf course started off by planning to adopt and engage with a sustainable programme from the outset as opposed to trying to get a programme in place after it is up and running. This case is also special in that it has been made into a reality in Indonesia, a country that is often thought to be insensitive and exploitative towards its environment. The achievements of Parahyangan Golf Club are a major milestone in the slow struggle to inculcate a culture of sustainability in the golf course industry. What the club has achieved in a relatively short time span, is highly commendable and it has since received accolades recognising its work at the annual ASIAN GOLF AWARDS.
245
APRIL 2021
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SHARED THOUGHTS | FROM PUBLISHER
12
SPECIAL FEATURE
6
OUTLOOK IS BRIGHT FOR ASIA AND THE WORLD
This time last year, the world was in a state of flux with COVID-19 accelerating its rampaging pace of infection. People were being infected by the thousands and deaths resulting from the global pandemic were rising uncontrollably.
XREAD MORE
26 The golf industry’s annual “Oscars” to vote for and honour the best amongst the best in the golf industry is on the launch pad and ready to blast off!
XREAD MORE
42
EQUIPMENT FOCUS
SPIDER PUTTERS – THEY JUST KEEP GETTING BETTER!
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TaylorMade Golf has launched four new putters. The four new arrivals are the Spider EX, Spider X Hydro Blast, Spider S and Spider SR. Each model is equipped with a specialized True Path™ alignment system that fits the putter’s shape while aiding certain golfer profiles. Put simply, these new Spiders deliver confidence you can feel!
30
A “NEW” SHERIFF RIDES INTO TOWN
SPORTFIVE is on a mission to shape and execute strategies that will expand and amplify its footprint in golf in Asia and around the world. ASIAN GOLF reached out to speak with its President, Steve Loy and he was open to discussing his plans and vision for golf in this part of the world.
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LION CITY SET TO TAME PANDEMIC!
Singapore needs to be applauded for taking the plunge to host the HSBC Women’s World Championship, the tournament that will kick off the start of the LPGA’s “Asian Swing”. This world class event is slated to be held at the multi-award winning Sentosa Golf Club on the island republic from 29 April to 2 May this year.
36
50 GOLF CLUBS – TAKE A CUE FROM TOPGOLF! Artie Starrs takes over the reins at Topgolf as its new Chief Executive Officer. His mission – to be responsible for the continued growth and expansion of Topgolf as one of the premiere golf entertainment companies in the world.
PANDEMIC CAUSES MENTAL PRESSURE!
The golf industry has not been spared by the pandemic and a recent survey conducted by SYNGENTA, clearly reveals mental health issues prevalent in the golf industry.
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58
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Mike Sebastian
INTERNATIONAL ROVING EDITOR
Alan Campbell (China/Middle East)
Editor/Chief Executive Officer [mike@asiapacificgolfgroup.com]
Correspondent
GLOBAL EDITORIAL ADVISORY PANEL
Angela Raymond
President [angela@asiapacificgolfgroup.com]
Gregg Patterson
President, Tribal Magic Inc.
Andrew Wood Founder/President, Legendary Marketing
Raquel Arcega
James Cronk
Executive Creative Art Director [raquel@asiapacificgolfgroup.com]
President, Cronk Group
IT Consultant Tech-Know Integrators
Alice Ho
INTERNATIONAL ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
Business Manager [alice@asiapacificgolfgroup.com]
Alice Ho
Email: alice@asiapacificgolfgroup.com
ASIAN GOLF Singapore Post Centre Post Office, P.O. Box 532, Singapore 914018 Tel: +65 6323 2800 Company Registration No.: 201405689G
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 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.
ASIAN GOLF, the longest running pan-Asian golf magazine has been awarded the citation as the Best Asia Pacific Golf News Publication for 2021. This prestigious award has been bestowed upon the magazine by the Londonbased APAC Insider. This sought-after award recognises all-round excellence, commitment and dedication of the publication to its industry. “This is really a humbling experience to be recognised as the best in the Asia Pacific region,” said Mike Sebastian, CEO and Publisher of ASIAN GOLF. “This is the second time we have been recognised and it comes as validation of the good work that the team does day in and day out!” ASIAN GOLF is an international golf magazine produced in English and enjoys a worldwide circulation. Its social media following, especially on Facebook is in excess of 103,000 followers.
SHARED THOUGHTS FROM THE PUBLISHER EQUIPMENT FOCUS | WHOOP
This time last year, the world was in a state of flux with COVID-19 accelerating its rampaging pace of infection. People were being infected by the thousands and deaths resulting from the global pandemic were rising uncontrollably.
A
s this report was being prepared, the
heartening point to note is that there is finally light at the
global infection rate stood at 119 million
end of the tunnel and that things may be turning around
with deaths at over 2.7 million. A year
for the better.
later, there are now signs emerging that the rate of infection and deaths
The best possible indicator of hope are signs of economic pick-up after months of battering. The roll-
is gradually on the decline in many parts of the world.
out of vaccines combined with increased spending by
However, this does not mean that the pandemic is over –
governments along with easing of monetary restrictions
there is always the imminent threat of the virus hitting a
are having very positive signs of change. The Association of
new wave of infection which means that the global guard
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economies in 2021 are
against Covid-19 and viral variants cannot be dropped. The
expected to see their real GDP rise by 6%. The countries
SHARED THOUGHTS | FROM THE PUBLISHER
THE ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN NATIONS (ASEAN) ECONOMIES IN 2021
Meanwhile, the giant amongst Asian countries, China
ARE EXPECTED TO SEE THEIR REAL GDP RISE BY 6%. THE COUNTRIES IN THIS TEN-MEMBER BLOC ARE EXPECTED TO WITNESS A SHARP V-SHAPED RECOVERY IN 2021.
is projected to grow 8.1 percent in 2021 and 5.6 percent
in this ten-member bloc are expected to witness a sharp
projections, the growth in 2021 for the United States is
V-shaped recovery in 2021.
5.1 percent, EU 4.2 percent, Japan 3.1 percent, the UK 4.5
The six largest ASEAN nations (Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) are expected to witness positive real GDP growth rates in 2021. With
in 2022. Global growth is expected to be 5.5 percent in 2021 and 4.2 percent in 2022 after an estimated 3.5 percent contraction in 2020, according to the latest World Economic Outlook. According to the International Monetary Fund’s
percent and 4.3 percent for all other advanced economies. India’s projection for 2021 is as high as 11.5 percent. Consistent with recovery in global activity, global
continued expansion of trade and gradual recovery in the
trade volumes are forecast to grow by 8.1 percent in 2021,
tourism sector and construction activities, Singapore’s GDP
before moderating to 6.3 percent in 2022.
growth is forecasted to increase to 5.8% in 2021. Similarly,
So, it is not all doom and gloom after all. The golf
Malaysia is set to witness a growth of 7.1% in 2021, an uptick
industry should take a positive read from the economic
from -5.2% in 2020.Vietnam is expected to be the fastest
trends and exploit the projected economic growth to give
growing economy with a real GDP growth of 8.5% in 2021.
itself a big perk.
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COVER STORY
PARAHYANGAN GOLF
COVER STORY | PARAHYANGAN GOLF
Asia is a showcase for some of the finest golf courses in the world – this is no understatement! One must visit and explore the diverse landscape that makes up the Asian Continent and that is the only way to appreciate what some of the best golf course architects and builders in the world have left behind as their legacy to golf in Asia. World class golf courses can be found in established markets like Japan, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. The newer markets like Vietnam and China have attracted the great talents of course architects like Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones III, Greg Norman and the man who has built the largest golf resort in the world, Brian Curley, the mastermind behind the multi-billiondollar Mission Hills Golf Resort in China. While the golf gems of Asia are very well known amongst golfers, there are courses in Indonesia that are still awaiting discovery. In this edition of ASIAN GOLF, the spotlight falls on a new facility located in the Indonesian city of Bandung, the third largest city in the archipelago.
COVER STORY | PARAHYANGAN GOLF
B
andung is a metropolis that is surrounded
1,250 hectares made up of a carefully planned, mixed-
by mountains and it has a cooler climate
use development that is home to over 2,200 residences,
compared to the sweltering heart of Jakarta.
schools, shops, restaurants, hospital and water park. Its
The Dutch who colonised Indonesia, converted
population has grown exponentially, attracting people from
Bandung into a resort with European style
all over the Indonesian archipelago seeking work and to live
cafes, restaurants and hotels. Because of its European
in this unique township. What is unique about it, one may
heritage, Bandung has been dubbed the Paris of Java.
ask?. Well, simply put, the force behind the township, the
Bandung has witnessed rapid development over the years. The burgeoning growth of the city is perhaps best captured by a new township that has been undergoing
large Lyman Group, set out to develop it as township where sustainability was at the core of the development. The group’s philosophy can be summarised as
development for several years. This town, named Kota Baru
follows: “We are building a city, where humanity and
Parahyanghan occupies a sprawling geography of some
the environment co-exist, living in peace and harmony,
working together for prosperity and sustainability.” The macro perspective of the Lyman Group was to make the township a sustainable, and independent city. Not only has the group achieved this clearly defined objective, but it has also created a quality and prosperous life for residents and the surrounding community. “Our mission was to develop Indonesian human resources to be ready to face global competition by providing quality educational facilities, community empowerment and to match this with facilities that can hold its own against international standards,” said Daniel Huang, a director of
WE ARE BUILDING A CITY, WHERE HUMANITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT COEXIST, LIVING IN PEACE AND HARMONY, WORKING TOGETHER FOR PROSPERITY AND SUSTAINABILITY.
the group.
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | HOLE 2
COVER STORY | PARAHYANGAN GOLF
The high standards set for sustainability for the township, led the owners of the Lyman Group to explore the development of a golf course within the township. However, as
provides a positive environment and a social legacy for future generations,” explained Huang. The planning team therefore set out to build their case
strong believers in the principles of sustainability, they wanted
for sustainability on three pillars made up of – Nature,
a golf course that embodied all the tenets of sustainability.
Communities and Resources:
“Before we embarked upon the development of the golf
“We wanted to make sure that the environment in which
course, we committed ourselves to placing sustainability as
we were going to build our golf course took into consideration
the key priority for our golf course as we believe that it is
the nature found within the land and to ensure that our plans
an important element of golf’s contribution to wider society
had only a positive impact on the natural world,” according to
and the effect the game has on nature and resources which
Huang.
OUR MISSION WAS TO DEVELOP INDONESIAN HUMAN RESOURCES TO BE READY TO FACE GLOBAL COMPETITION BY
PROVIDING QUALITY EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES, COMMUNITY
EMPOWERMENT AND TO MATCH THIS WITH FACILITIES THAT CAN HOLD ITS OWN AGAINST INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS.
– DANIEL HUANG
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | HOLE 1 & CLUBHOUSE
COVER STORY | PARAHYANGAN GOLF
When the planning commenced for the golf course,
in the planning of the golf course. “I am happy to report
there were already established villages and communities
that the planning that went into this operational aspect of
living on the land. “This being the case, we made absolutely
sustainability has helped us produce a sustainable approach
certain that we integrated the villages and communities into
to the development and management of our golf course
our master plan, and I am glad to report that today, with
which has resulted in overall cost savings and enhanced
our golf course in operation, we maintain a very healthy and
revenue streams for us.”
sustainable interaction between the communities and the golf club.” Huang explained. According to him, many of the villagers work for the
ASIAN GOLF elected to tell this story because it is testimony to how a golf course started off by planning to adopt and engage with a sustainable programme from the
club and since most of them were farmers, they are provided
outset as opposed to trying to get a programme in place
unused land on the golf course for them to cultivate small
after it is up and running. This case is also special in that it
plots of cash crops – a fine example of co-existence in the
has been made into a reality in Indonesia, a country that is
true sense of sustainability.
often thought to be insensitive and exploitative towards its
The utilisation of resources made up a major focus point
environment.
BEFORE WE EMBARKED UPON THE
DEVELOPMENT OF THE GOLF COURSE, WE COMMITTED OURSELVES TO PLACING SUSTAINABILITY AS THE KEY PRIORITY FOR OUR GOLF COURSE AS WE
BELIEVE THAT IT IS AN IMPORTANT ELEMENT OF GOLF’S CONTRIBUTION TO WIDER SOCIETY AND THE EFFECT THE GAME HAS ON NATURE AND RESOURCES WHICH PROVIDES A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT AND A SOCIAL LEGACY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.
– DANIEL HUANG
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | HOLE 12 AND 14
COVER STORY | PARAHYANGAN GOLF
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | DRIVING RANGE
The achievements of Parahyangan Golf Club are a major milestone in the
I AM HAPPY TO
slow struggle to inculcate a culture of sustainability in the golf course industry.
REPORT THAT
What the club has achieved in a relatively short time span, is highly commendable
THE PLANNING THAT WENT INTO THIS OPERATIONAL ASPECT OF SUSTAINABILITY HAS
and it has since received accolades recognising its work at the annual ASIAN GOLF AWARDS. When asked what the word “parahyangan” meant, Huang said that in the Indonesian language it means “the abode of the gods”. And quite rightly so because of its incredible location in Bandung. The golf course, an 18-hole world class creation by Robert Moore of JMP Golf Course Architects, is located on a
HELPED US PRODUCE A
spectacular landform where the course flows along the deeply incised ravines
SUSTAINABLE
and lake edges of Lake Saguling and climbs onto the flanks of the surrounding
APPROACH TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF OUR GOLF COURSE WHICH HAS RESULTED IN OVERALL COST SAVINGS
mountains. This offers some spell-binding views of the valley floor. Moore, an American who is an expert on Indonesia having built most of the nation’s top golf courses, set out to design a course that featured a highly strategic layout featuring multiple lines of play on virtually every hole. “There is never a dull moment at Parahyangan – it is a golf course with many personalities and many sides to it,” said Y. Ardiansyah, club manager. While a lot of can be said about the beauty and experience about playing this golf course, perhaps the one lasting impression of Parahyangan will be the pride that everyone at the club takes towards embracing the importance and value
AND ENHANCED
of being a golf course that is managed to be a truly sustainable showcase in all
REVENUE STREAMS FOR
aspects of its operations.
US.
Parahyangan is the gold standard for golf course sustainability and while it may be a five-star facility, sustainability and sustainable practices take precedence and are at the core of its pulsating heart!
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | HOLE 3
COVER STORY | PARAHYANGAN GOLF
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | VIP ROOM
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | HOLE 10
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | PATTING GREEN
PARAHYANGAN GOLF BANDUNG | HOLE 17
SPECIAL FEATURE
GLOBAL GOLF AWARDS
SPECIAL FEATURE | GLOBAL GOLF AWARDS
The golf industry’s annual “Oscars” to vote for and honour the best amongst the best in the golf industry is on the launch pad and ready to blast off! The 2021 Global Golf Awards, jointly owned, organised and produced by ASIAN GOLF and the giant Mission Hills Group of China will be officially launched and the on-line poll will go “live” effective 15th April 2021. The on-line poll will be open until 15th July 2021.
This annual award programme will be entering its 21st year and ranks as the longest running industry recognition event of its kind in the world. The Global Golf Awards was preceded by the Asian Golf Awards which served as the gold standard for the measure of excellence in the golf industry.
SPECIAL FEATURE | GLOBAL GOLF AWARDS
T
he results of the Global Golf Awards will be
poll will be based on the total number of valid votes received
celebrated at a grand gala banquet to be
and as in the past, the three top winners in each category
staged in Haikou, Hainan on November 7,
will be determined by the total number of votes received by
2021.
each winner,” Ho explained.
“We have introduced four new award
categories for the 2021 search, and we believe that these new categories will receive the spontaneous support of the industry,” said Alice Ho, Business Manager for ASIAN GOLF and the project coordinator. “It is important to note that the results of the on-line
The four new categories are: 1. Best Golf Clubhouse in Asia PaciÀc
2. Best Public Golf Course in Asia PaciÀc
3. Best Club General Manager Of The Year
4. Best Professional Golf Coach in Asia PaciÀc
The total featured categories include: • Best Golf Destination in the Middle East-Africa
BY CONTINENT - ASIA PACIFIC • Best Golf Course in Asia Pacific • Best Championship Golf Course in Asia Pacific • Best Golf Destination in Asia Pacific
• Best Golf Resort in the Middle East-Africa • Best Golf Club Experience in the Middle East-Africa • Best New Golf Course in the Middle East-Africa • Best Renovated Golf Course in the Middle East-Africa
• Best Golf Resort in Asia Pacific
BY CONTINENT – EUROPE
• Best Golf Club Experience in Asia Pacific
• Best Golf Course in Europe
• Best Golf Clubhouse in Asia Pacific
• Best Championship Golf Course in Europe
• Best New Golf Course in Asia Pacific
• Best Golf Destination in Europe
• Best Renovated Golf Course in Asia Pacific
• Best Golf Resort in Europe
• Best Public Golf Course in Asia Pacific
• Best Golf Club Experience in Europe
• Best Club General Manager Of The Year
• Best New Golf Course in Europe
• Best Professional Golf Coach in Asia Pacific
• Best Renovated Golf Course in Europe
BY CONTINENT - MIDDLE EAST-AFRICA
BY CONTINENT – NORTH AMERICA
• Best Golf Course in the Middle East-Africa
• Best Golf Course in North America
• Best Championship Golf Course in the Middle East-Africa
• Best Championship Golf Course in North America • Best Golf Destination in North America • Best Golf Resort in North America
[ Note that on
THIS ANNUAL AWARD PROGRAMME WILL BE ENTERING ITS 21ST YEAR AND RANKS AS THE LONGEST RUNNING INDUSTRY RECOGNITION EVENT OF ITS KIND IN THE WORLD.
THE GLOBAL GOLF AWARDS WAS PRECEDED BY THE ASIAN GOLF AWARDS WHICH SERVED AS THE GOLD
STANDARD FOR THE MEASURE OF EXCELLENCE IN THE GOLF INDUSTRY.
• Best Golf Club Experience in North America • Best New Golf Course in North America • Best Renovated Golf Course in in North America
BY CONTINENT - SOUTH AMERICA • Best Golf Course in South America • Best Championship Golf Course in South America • Best Golf Destination in South America • Best Golf Resort in South America • Best Golf Club Experience in South America • Best New Golf Course in South America • Best Renovated Golf Course in South America
COUNTRY-BY-COUNTRY (LIMITED TO ASIA PACIFIC ONLY) 1. Best Golf Course in Brunei Darussalam
10. Best Golf Course in Malaysia
2. Best Golf Course in Cambodia
11. Best Golf Course in Myanmar
3. Best Golf Course in China (including
12. Best Golf Course in the
Hong Kong and Macau)
Philippines
4. Best Golf Course in Chinese Taipei
13. Best Golf Course in Singapore
5. Best Golf Course in India
14. Best Golf Course on the
6. Best Golf Course in Indonesia 7. Best Golf Course in Japan
Sub-Continent (including Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka)
8. Best Golf Course in South Korea
15. Best Golf Course in Thailand
9. Best Golf Course in Laos
16. Best Golf Course in Vietnam
n-line voting will only commence on April 15, 2021
]
SPECIAL FEATURE
LPGA
SPECIAL FEATURE | LPGA
For almost a year, golf fans the world over have been deprived of being able to watch live action play-out on some of the world’s most competitive golf courses. Although tournaments have been telecast “live”, it just is not the same! As this article is being written and as travel restrictions caused by the pandemic are in force, one nation is leading the charge to defy the scourge of the global plague by staging Asia’s first live professional tournament. That nation is the spunky Lion City aka Singapore. This is not a show of bravado or derring-do but instead a bucking of the trend that is dictated by the careful observance of the best safety protocols to ensure the safety of the players, officials and the fans. At this point in time, it is not known if fans will be allowed to attend the tournament.
SPECIAL FEATURE | LPGA
WE ARE INCREDIBLY BACK TO SENTOSA
THEM COMPETE AGAIN ON T
MODIFICATIONS AND AS THE
PLAYERS WILL NOTICE SOME
I AM CONFIDENT THE TEST OF GOLF. THE TOURNA AND
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEE
RETURN TO OUR FAIRWAYS A
W
Leading the star-studded field of golfers will
hatever the case, Singapore needs to be applauded
be the defending champion, South Korea’s Sung-
for taking the plunge to
hyun Park. The other superstars will include the
host the HSBC Women’s
reigning World No.1 Jin-young Ko, LPGA Hall Of
World Championship, the
Famer Inbee Park, American Danielle Kang and
tournament that will kick off the start of the
Australia’s Minjee Lee. Fans will also be able to see many of the big
LPGA’s “Asian Swing”. This world class event is slated to be held at the multi-award winning
names from South Korea and Thailand show up
Sentosa Golf Club on the island republic from 29
in full force to re-assert the Asian dominance of
April to 2 May this year.
the LPGA. It is also hoped that newcomers like
Commenting on the return of the event to Singapore, Andy Johnston, the general manager of
Thailand’s Patty Tavatanakit and the Philippine’s Bianca Pagdanganan put on a good show. With safety restrictions set to remain in place
the host venue said, “We are incredibly happy to be welcoming the players back to Sentosa Golf Club
until after the tournament, HSBC Women’s World
and we can’t wait to watch them compete again
Championship 2021 will be a limited attendance
on the The Tanjong. With some modifications and
event. Prioritising the safety of players, officials
as the course continues to mature, the players
and corporate guests, organisers are working
will notice some difference from when they last
with the relevant authorities to finalise health
played, and I am confident The Tanjong will once
and safety protocols for every aspect of the
again provide a true test of golf. The tournament
tournament, including adhering to prevailing safe
was greatly missed last year, so we look forward
management measures pre and post-event. The total prize for the tournament is set at
to seeing the world’s best women golfers return to our fairways again this year.”
US$1.6 million.
Y HAPPY TO BE WELCOMING THE PLAYERS
GOLF CLUB AND WE CAN’T WAIT TO WATCH THE THE TANJONG. WITH SOME E COURSE CONTINUES TO MATURE, THE
E DIFFERENCE FROM WHEN THEY LAST PLAYED,
TANJONG WILL ONCE AGAIN PROVIDE A TRUE AMENT WAS GREATLY MISSED LAST YEAR, SO EING THE WORLD’S BEST WOMEN GOLFERS AGAIN THIS YEAR. – ANDY JOHNSTON
2020
2020
SPECIAL FEATURE
COVID STRESS
SPECIAL FEATURE | COVID STRESS
The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic recession have negatively affected many people’s mental health and created new barriers for people already suffering from mental illness and substance use disorders. Besides this, normal people are also reporting symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder. Research into mental health conditions covering the pandemic found that many adults are reporting specific negative impacts on their mental health and wellbeing, such as difficulty sleeping, or eating, increases in alcohol consumption or substance use and worsening chronic conditions due to worry and stress over the coronavirus. As the pandemic wears on, public health measures expose many people to experiencing situations linked to poor mental health outcomes, such as isolation and job loss.
SPECIAL FEATURE | COVID STRESS
T
he golf industry has not been spared by the
Key highlights of the survey include the following:
pandemic and a recent survey conducted by SYNGENTA, clearly reveals mental
✔ 60% of superintendents, PGA Professionals and club
health issues prevalent in the golf industry.
managers report increased problems.
SYNGENTA is a leading global provider of
agricultural science and technology, in particular seeds and crop protection products, with its headquarters in Basel, Switzerland. The survey was conducted on-line and more than half
✔ Only 9% sought professional counselling in the past six months. ✔ Few organizations and employers offer well-being support.
the survey respondents (52%), from countries including the United States, Canada, the UK and the Netherlands, said
More than 60% of greenkeepers, PGA Professionals and
they were aware of colleagues who had experienced mental
club managers have experienced increased work-related
health problems since March 2020.
mental health problems in the past year, the survey found.
Of those who completed the survey, 66% were golf
Of these, nearly two-thirds (64%) said they had felt
course superintendents or greenkeepers, 13% were PGA
anxious or worried, 57% said they experienced sleep problems
Professionals or directors of golf and 11% were club
and 43% said they had felt depressed with a continuous low
managers.
mood.
WHILE
THIS IS A SNAPSHOT SURVEY, IT PROVIDES EVIDENCE OF
WHAT WE HAVE BEEN HEARING ANECDOTALLY THROUGHOUT
THE PANDEMIC, THAT MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS ARE PREVALENT. Three of the 256 respondents admitted thoughts of selfharm or suicide. The online survey, which was anonymous, also found
we have been hearing anecdotally throughout the pandemic, that mental health problems are prevalent.” “I’m especially worried for the three industry
that only 9% of respondents had sought professional
colleagues who reported the most severe symptoms, and I
counselling in the previous six months.
would encourage anyone in this situation to urgently seek
And while two-thirds (68%) of respondents said their organization or employer should offer mental health
professional advice.” For the industry, the survey highlights a potential gap
training and support, only 21% confirmed their employer
between the prevalence of mental health problems and
did have a mental health policy or well-being programme
the level of support available and it provides the basis for a
(57% said their organization did not offer support; 22%
platform to seek out solutions.
were unsure) and 12% had received stress or anxiety training at work. Mark Birchmore, Syngenta Global Head of Marketing,
ASIAN GOLF conducted a random telephone survey amongst a small cross-sectional sampling of golf course employees and discovered that there is concern and the
Turf and Landscape, who commissioned the survey, said:
common stress, anxiety and depression problems were
“While this is a snapshot survey, it provides evidence of what
related to job loss.
support@golfcitizen.com
EQUIPMENT FOCUS
SPIDER PUTTERS
EQUIPMENT FOCUS | SPIDER PUTTERS
Remember the adage – if it ain’t broke don’t fix it! It holds true for many great products and it is especially fitting for what we are about to describe – the latest iteration in the long-standing tradition of Spider putters bearing the TaylorMade brand. Before we dive in to check out the newest additions to the Spider family, let’s take a blast back to the past to get a history fix on the Spider putter. It all started back in 2008 when the original Spider putter was released, and it was known as the Monza Spider. This was the putter that laid down the design elements of what was to become a cherished tradition with TaylorMade. The Monza provided the solid foundation for the Spider line and thirteen years later TaylorMade has launched a family of four new Spider putters.
EQUIPMENT FOCUS | SPIDER PUTTERS
W
ith such an illustrious historical
The EX model which is slightly larger but with a more
heritage, the new Spider putters
streamlined shape that features softer lines and a rounded
share one common feature which is a
backside. It features a new Pure Roll² insert, marking
built-in DNA to help make aiming and
the company’s first multi-material insert made with
alignment easier for golfers.
co-moulded construction to produce better roll and feel
The four new arrivals are the Spider EX, Spider X Hydro
Blast, Spider S and Spider SR. Each model is equipped
characteristics. Its new True Path is optically engineered to make it
with a specialized True Path™ alignment system that fits
easier to aim, featuring a reflective white colour that spans
the putter’s shape while aiding certain golfer profiles. Put
the putter’s top-line and allows golfers to use the face for
simply, these new Spiders deliver confidence you can feel!
alignment. Three dots enclosed by dual rails are used to
Talking to this point, TaylorMade’s Bill Price of the Product Creation team, for Putters and Wedges said,
centre the ball and promote a consistent address position. White was strategically selected as it is the most
“A lot goes into hitting a solid putt. With this new class
reflective colour and provides a clear focal point that makes
of Spider putters, we focused on removing two of those
the stroke and the path of the roll more visible.
variables – aim and alignment.” Price went on to explain,
Next on the test bed is the Spider EX White - the
“Each model features its own True Path that simplifies the
all-new Fluted Feel™ shaft adds to this putter’s feel
aiming process and helps golfers set up the ball the same
properties. It features a soft tip section intently
way time after time. While each putter brings something
designed to enhance feel, increase stability, and
unique to the table, they are bonded by a foundation of
tighten dispersion. TaylorMade engineers worked
forgiveness, stability and True Path alignment that makes
to develop this new shaft and, in the process,
it easier to aim.”
tested multiple iterations in a collaborative effort
Let’s now take each putter for a test run, starting with the Spider EX - it utilises an advanced multi-material
to maintain stability while adding feel. Spider EX is designed for easy aim, better feel
construction to deliver optimal stability. The lightweight
and enhanced stability to provide
aluminium frame and carbon composite centre allow for
golfers with more confidence on the
strategic perimeter weighting, increasing MOI for consistent
putting green.
roll across the face and more forgiveness.
As a point of interest, it should be noted that Spider X is the best-selling model in the franchise’s history,
EACH MODEL FEATURES ITS OWN TRUE PATH THAT SIMPLIFIES THE AIMING PROCESS AND HELPS GOLFERS SET UP THE BALL THE SAME WAY TIME AFTER TIME.
WHILE EACH PUTTER BRINGS SOMETHING UNIQUE TO THE TABLE, THEY ARE BONDED BY A FOUNDATION OF FORGIVENESS, STABILITY AND TRUE PATH ALIGNMENT THAT MAKES IT EASIER TO AIM.
EQUIPMENT FOCUS | SPIDER PUTTERS
delivering proven performance at every level of the game. On
TaylorMade has refreshed that original design with a new
Tour, it has accounted for 11 victories over the last two-plus
arrow-shaped True Path inspired by archery’s pinpoint
seasons (including the start of the 2020-21 season) while
precision. The newly engineered alignment system is
also producing record-setting numbers at retail.
optically designed to make it easier for golfers to aim.
The Spider X Hydro Blast builds on that tradition of
Located on the top-line, it provides a clear focal point that
success with an all-new colourway and finishing process.
is the exact width of a golf ball, which helps with consistent
The high-pressure application of water to the aluminium
address positions and face direction.
body creates a smooth and premium finish in a rich silver colourway. Added durability is a by-product of this process, as the absence of paint means no surface blemishes related to chipping and greater scratch
Stability is the calling card of the Spider family. With the all-new Spider SR (Stability Refined), TaylorMade delivers high-MOI performance in a Tour-inspired double wing shape. It is still among the most stable and forgiving putters in the current Spider line-up. Another
resistance. It maintains the same advanced multi-
key differentiator is how True Path is positioned within the
material construction as the original Spider
cavity behind the putter face. Also drawing inspiration from
X, and its Tour-proven True Path design
archery, the arrow-shaped design delivers an easy-to-aim alignment tool that promotes consistently centred ball
aids in alignment. Bringing up the rear end is the Spider S which was in 2020 as the most forgiving model in the Spider family, with an
positions at address. So, there you have it! Four terrific new putters from TaylorMade and these new arrivals will be available on the market in April.
MOI of more than 6,000.
TAYLORMADE HAS REFRESHED THAT
ORIGINAL DESIGN WITH A NEW ARROWSHAPED TRUE PATH INSPIRED BY ARCHERY’S PINPOINT PRECISION. THE NEWLY ENGINEERED ALIGNMENT SYSTEM IS OPTICALLY DESIGNED TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR GOLFERS TO AIM. LOCATED ON THE TOP-LINE, IT PROVIDES A CLEAR FOCAL POINT THAT IS THE EXACT WIDTH OF A GOLF BALL, WHICH HELPS WITH CONSISTENT ADDRESS POSITIONS AND FACE DIRECTION.
SPECIAL FEATURE
SPORTSFIVE
SPECIAL FEATURE | SPORTFIVE
For well over a year, the golf scene in most of Asia has been stagnating especially on the professional tournament front. Most professional golf tours have been in hibernation and some of the biggest annual events organised by the PGA TOUR and the European Tour have been cancelled or relocated to venues outside of Asia. It has been tough but there are signs that things may be getting better as 2021 progresses. The one light at the end of the tunnel is a brand-new sports organisation that answers to the name SPORTFIVE. Through acquisition, SPORTFIVE, formerly Lagardère Sports, is a global sports business agency, with a strong presence in golf in the United States and Asia and expects to expand its business around the game by developing new business opportunities with golf rights-holders and brands that market in golf. As part of the effort, SPORTFIVE is on a mission to shape and execute strategies that will expand and amplify its footprint in golf around the world.
STEVE LOY, PRESIDENT OF SPORTFIVE
SPECIAL FEATURE | SPORTFIVE
L
eading the thrust is a 30-year veteran in sports management and professional golf and he is Steve Loy, President of SPORTFIVE. Observers view the appointment of Loy as a brilliant strategic move and he is excited: “After 30 years in professional golf, I’m looking forward to this new opportunity of leading our global golf business …. SPORTFIVE has an unparalleled network, strong leader-
ship, and expertise in the international business of sports, and I look forward to utilising those assets as we expand our already strong presence in golf around the world.” Loy certainly exudes confidence and looks like the type of leader who can make great things happen for golf globally and especially in Asia. ASIAN GOLF reached out to speak with Loy and he was open to discussing his plans and vision for golf in this part of the world. “In Asia, where we have had long and very productive relationships with all the major tours and we hope to continue to promote and stage world-class professional golf tournaments in the region so that we provide a platform for Asian golfers to compete against the best in the world,” Loy said. He is optimistic that conditions will gradually return to some state of normalcy and that Asia will continue to be an especially important market for professional golf, and he emphasised that SPORTFIVE intends to continue to pursue the opportunities in golf wholeheartedly.
WE ARE IN FACT SEEING A LOT OF STRONG CORPORATE SUPPORT IN
ASIA, BOTH FROM ASIAN COMPANIES AND MULTI-NATIONAL COMPANIES, AS WELL AS INTERNATIONAL BRANDS THAT EITHER HAVE A LONG HISTORY OF SUPPORTING GOLF OR THOSE WHO NOW SEE GOLF AS THE RIGHT PROFILE AND THE RIGHT SPORT TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH
– BE IT FOR THEIR
CLIENT ENGAGEMENT PURPOSES OR THE INHERENT SPORTSMANSHIP THAT IS ASSOCIATED WITH GOLF.
SPECIAL FEATURE | SPORTFIVE
WE WANT TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES THAT WILL PRODUCE FUTURE STARS – THE HOME-GROWN TALENTS THAT CROWDS CAN SUPPORT AND CHEER ON. THERE WILL ALWAYS BE INTERNATIONAL STARS, NO MATTER WHAT THE SPORT IS. BUT WE HAVE SEEN A RISE IN FANTASTIC ASIAN TALENTS OVER THE LAST DECADE THAT HAVE LEFT AN INDELIBLE MARK IN GLOBAL GOLF – MORE SO FROM THE WOMEN ESPECIALLY THE KOREANS AND THE THAIS, BUT ALSO FOR THE MEN, SUCH AS JAZZ JANEWATTANANOND AND TOM KIM (KIM JOO-HYUNG), WHERE PLAYERS OF THEIR CALIBRE PROMISE AN EXCITING NEW ERA IN ASIAN GOLF. As someone who has been associated with the profes-
Continuing his plans for golf in Asia, he discussed the
sional game of golf, Loy is fully committed to continue to
role that Asia’s growing legion of multinational corpora-
present golf as a strong value proposition for the commer-
tions can play in the promotion of the professional game.
cial market and for new brands to invest in the sport – both
Unlike the more developed markets of North America, Eu-
for the professional and amateur games. “Our strategy
rope, Japan and South Korea, corporate support amongst
would be to ensure that our events incorporate a very strong
Asian corporations has not been a given. However, Loy sees
community involvement aspect as well as a sport develop-
change in this trend – a positive development. “We are in
ment perspective,” Loy explained.
fact seeing a lot of strong corporate support in Asia,
As a global force in golf, SPORTFIVE has a very im-
both from Asian companies and multi-national
pressive client roster which includes big names like Phil
companies, as well as international brands
Mickelson, Jon Rahm, Keegan Bradley, Brandt Snedeker, Im
that either have a long history of supporting
Sung-jae, and Davis Love III. It has also negotiated new ma-
golf or those who now see golf as the right
jor equipment partnerships with the Callaway Golf Company
profile and the right sport to be associ-
amongst other major golf brands. In Asia, SPORTFIVE pro-
ated with – be it for their client engagement
motes and manages events including the SMBC Singapore
purposes or the inherent sportsmanship that is
Open, the Australian Open, and the BNI Indonesian Masters.
associated with golf.”
TOM KIM (KIM JOO-HYUNG)
SERGIO GARCIA
According to Loy, the growing trend is also being seen
the role that these organisations can play in the growth of
in support of Asian players – “we are seeing a lot more
the game. To this, Loy said, “We have been engaging with
brands in Asia supporting their homegrown talents, espe-
governments across the region for many years. We have
cially in Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan and Thailand. And even
not only been working with the ministry of sports in the
in Singapore, we are seeing local companies stepping up to
individual countries but also their tourism boards. There is
support the young Singapore pros. It has taken time for a lot
really no secret to engaging with governments – we would
of local brands in different countries to see the value of golf,
have to show them the value an event in their particular
and now that they do, we have certainly seen an increase in
country or destination would bring.”
investment from Asian corporations.” Touching on the sensitive issue of Asian professional
ASIAN GOLF was able to get an insight to the thinking of Loy as he pushes his golf strategy forward in Asia. He
golfers lacking “star-power”, Loy explained, “We want to
is certainly behaving like the take-charge man that he
create opportunities that will produce future stars – the
is – a no-nonsense Sheriff. “Golf has definitely become a
home-grown talents that crowds can support and cheer on.
global sport and SPORTFIVE intends to provide value to our
There will always be international stars, no matter what the
customers and playing opportunities for our players in the
sport is. But we have seen a rise in fantastic Asian talents
generation of the sport.”
over the last decade that have left an indelible mark in glob-
This is how Loy framed his parting shot: “Like anyone
al golf – more so from the women especially the Koreans
who is involved and invested in the game for the long
and the Thais, but also for the men, such as Jazz Janewat-
term, we would like to see the game continue to grow, that
tananond and Tom Kim (Kim Joo-hyung), where players of
commercial investment continues to increase, and for the
their calibre promise an exciting new era in Asian golf.” An area important to the growth of any professional sports in Asia relates to the engage-
region to have a significant number of the best professional golf tournaments in the world with a significant number of top Asian players competing regularly.”
ment and involvement with governments and
GOLF HAS DEFINITELY BECOME A GLOBAL SPORT AND SPORTFIVE INTENDS TO PROVIDE VALUE TO OUR CUSTOMERS AND PLAYING OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR PLAYERS IN THE GENERATION OF THE SPORT.
JAZZ JANEWATTANANOND
PANUPHOL PITTAYARAT
support@golfcitizen.com
SPECIAL FEATURE
TOP GOLF
SPECIAL FEATURE | TOPGOLF
To be operating more than 50 facilities and growing at an exponential rate globally, Topgolf Entertainment Group is obviously doing something right. This technologyenabled global sports and entertainment leader has built on a solid foundation of community, inclusivity and fun. What started as a simple idea to enhance the game of golf has grown into a movement where people from all walks of life connect at the intersection of technology and sports entertainment. The key operative word is entertainment and Topgolf GETS IT!
SPECIAL FEATURE | TOPGOLF
WE ARE THRILLED TO HAVE ARTIE JOIN TOPGOLF AS HE LEADS THE COMPANY, TOGETHER WITH THE TEAM, ON ITS CONTINUED JOURNEY OF ACCELERATED GROWTH. I AM CONFIDENT ARTIE’S LEADERSHIP, TRACK RECORD OF DRIVING A GLOBAL BRAND WITH A FOCUS ON OPERATIONS AND FRANCHISING, AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION EXPERIENCE WILL ADD GREAT VALUE TO THE INNOVATIVE TEAM AT
TOPGOLF.
– CHIP BREWER
I
n the past few weeks, there has been a lot of consolidation with Callaway Golf and Topgolf formalising their merger with the former taking control. Callaway Golf, an early investor in Topgolf saw the potential in Topgolf early on and made the big move
to merge the two companies to help grow the business globally. The man who heads up the merged entity is Chip Brewer, who master-minded the development and growth of Callaway Golf into what it is today. Obviously, Brewer has seen what was ahead for the newly formed golf behemoth and was aware that the future of golf lay in a corporation’s ability to fully exploit the game’s entertainment potential – the ability to bring together an aspect of the game of golf and to integrate it with good and affordable food and entertainment. And what do you have – Topgolf! Now, moving ahead, to ensure that Topgolf grows at a rate envisioned by the newly structured corporation, there was a need to bring onboard a leader who possessed an intimate understanding of the food and entertainment industry and Brewer has done just that.
SPECIAL FEATURE | TOPGOLF
The Callaway Golf chief has hired a man who embodies all the qualities that are needed to drive Topgolf to new and greater heights globally. That man has been found and he is Artie Starrs who takes over the reins at Topgolf as its new Chief Executive Officer. His mission – to be responsible for the continued growth and expansion of Topgolf as one of the premiere golf entertainment companies in the world. Starrs comes to Topgolf from Yum! Brands where he most recently served as Global CEO for Pizza Hut, overseeing its 18,000 locations across 110 countries. Prior to this role, he served as Chief Financial Officer for Rave Cinemas. “We are thrilled to have Artie join Topgolf as he leads the company, together with the team, on its continued journey of accelerated growth,” said Brewer. “I am confident Artie’s leadership, track record of driving a global brand with a focus on operations and franchising, and digital transformation experience will add great value to the innovative team at Topgolf.” Commenting on his new global role, Starrs said, “I could not think of a better time to join this brand, with so much momentum as we head into the future. I’m looking forward to joining the more than 18,000 Topgolf team members to build on their incredible business success and powerful culture.”
I COULD NOT THINK OF A BETTER TIME TO JOIN THIS BRAND, WITH SO MUCH MOMENTUM AS WE HEAD INTO THE FUTURE. I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO JOINING THE MORE THAN
18,000 TOPGOLF TEAM MEMBERS TO BUILD ON
THEIR INCREDIBLE BUSINESS SUCCESS AND POWERFUL CULTURE.
– ARTIE STARRS
ASIAN GOLF SEES STARRS APPOINTMENT AS A SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT AS IT HELPS PAVE A NEW PATHWAY FOR GOLF CLUBS
TO EMULATE AND IMPLEMENT.
THAT PATHWAY RELATES TO BREAKING
AWAY FROM THE TRADITIONAL BUSINESS MODEL OF JUST BEING A GOLF
CLUB, INSTEAD OF PROVIDING GOLFERS AN ENLARGED EXPERIENCE WHICH BRINGS TOGETHER THE GAME OF GOLF WITH A WELL THOUGHT-UP
PROGRAMME OF GOOD, AFFORDABLE FOOD AND ENTERTAINMENT.
SPECIAL FEATURE | TOPGOLF
GOLF CLUBS CAN FOLLOW SUIT BY ENGAGING BIG TIME WITH
ENTERTAINMENT BECAUSE AFTER ALL, THE CLUB INDUSTRY IS IN THE ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS AND IT IS ABOUT TIME THAT AS
WE ALL COME OUT OF THE PANDEMIC, WE EXPLORE A WHOLE NEW BUSINESS MODEL
ENTERTAINMENT AS THE CENTREPIECE. TOPGOLF IS DOING IT AND WITH
THE RESULTS THAT ARE BEING EXPERIENCED IS INCREDIBLE!
ASIAN GOLF sees Starrs appointment as a significant development as it helps pave a new pathway for golf clubs to emulate and implement. That pathway relates to breaking away from the traditional business model of just being a golf club, instead of providing golfers an enlarged experience which brings together the game of golf with a well thoughtup programme of good, affordable food and entertainment. Callaway Golf saw this direction for the future of golf and seized it at the right time. Golf clubs can follow suit by engaging big time with entertainment because after all, the club industry is in the entertainment business and it is about time that as we all come out of the pandemic, we explore a whole new business model with ENTERTAINMENT as the centrepiece. Topgolf is doing it and the results that are being experienced is incredible!