www.ms3golf.com.my
Inaugural issue
PP16284/03/2010 (023672)
member Monthly Medal System
CM launches Sukma Melaka Golf Challenge SUKMA XIII MELAKA
page Minister 20-21 Sports announces new association
Radzi: We are ready for Sukma page 12-13
PM’s dream comes true page 17
04
contents
page 06-07
Sukma XIII Melaka Golf Challenge ready to swing into action
page 08
Afendi’s dream job
page 09
A lively & entertaining launch
page 11
Din takes up the challenge
page 12-13
Radzi: We are ready for Sukma
page 14
SUKMA – how it all began
page 15
New centre a boost for bowling in Malacca
page 16
Two bronze medals in SEA Games
page 17
Najib’s dream come true as PGA Tour comes to Malaysia
page 18
Golf princess wants to conquer the world
page 20-21
A new era for professional golf in the country
page 22-23
A touch of Royalty
page 24-25
Gary has big dreams for KGSAAS
page 26
Tiger trapped in his own spin
page 27
Laughing at Tiger
page 29
Maiden win for Michelle
page 30
A memorable year for Asian Tour
page 31
Thongchai voted Asian Tour Player of theYear
page 32-33
Product features
page 34-35
Golf Directory
page 36
Beauties use KL as stepping stone
page 37
Chong Wei outdoes himself
page 38
Malaysia redeems pride in Vientiane
page 39
MeritusGP confident of more podiums in Abu Dhabi
month of january 2010
MS3.editor’s note
month of december 2009
05
For the amateur, there is a chance to be crowned the inaugural champion of probably Malaysia’s biggest ever golfing event – Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge. Over 60 golf clubs from around the country have signed up for the event and you can read more about this exciting and innovative tournament, which offers RM500,000 in prizes.
A great time to be a golfer in Malaysia As
the latest magazine on the block, MS3 Golf will look at ways to set ourselves apart from the rest of our competitors. We know it is not going to be easy as many of our rivals have long established themselves as “must-reads”. It will take time but we are here for the long haul. We hope to strike a balance by running some humorous articles along with serious, hard core news and as you may have noticed, we are not just a golf magazine. We will dedicate three to four pages each month to other big sporting events happening in the country. People matter too. That’s why you will find many personality stories each month. In our inaugural issue, we have an exclusive interview with Kelly Tan, the 16-year-old who is destined for greatness. The 100PLUS Malaysian Junior Open champion won two bronze medals at the SEA Games – individual and team – and is hoping to qualify for the LPGA by 2014. We would also like to invite you to share some of your stories with us. Do tell us about your best, worst, funniest or even most touching golfing tales. All emails should be sent to: gnunis@ms3golf.com.my We also gladly welcome any feedback about the magazine as we strive to deliver a product you want. We want to be as reader friendly as possible. In the coming months, we will bring you course and food reviews and even a page or two just for the ladies.
Meanwhile, next year promises to be an exciting time for golfers – amateurs and professionals – in the country. For the amateur, there is a chance to be crowned the inaugural champion of probably Malaysia’s biggest ever golfing event – Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge. Over 60 golf clubs from around the country have signed up for the event and you can read more about this exciting and innovative tournament, which offers RM500,000 in prizes on Pages 6-7. For the professionals, Malaysian Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak’s boyhood dream of hosting a PGA Tour in Malaysia, will finally come true when the Mines hosts the US$6 million Asia Pacific Golf Classic, Malaysia 2010 either in October or November. The top 25 players from the PGA TOUR’s final FedEx Cup standings will automatically qualify, as will the top-10 available players from the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit. The field will be filled by five sponsor exemptions with at least one Malaysian pro-
fessional guaranteed to start. The champion will earn US$1 million. There is more good news for the professional golfers as the Professional Golfers’ Association of Malaysia (PGAM) will start a new tour to help promote the sport in the country. The two bronze medals won at the SEA Games shows the game is heading in the right direction at all levels. On the international front, the whole world is still reeling from Tiger Woods’ sex scandal and MS3 Golf could not but help poke fun
at the master blaster with our collection of Tiger jokes, sourced from the world wide web. While we feel sorry for Tiger’s troubles, it is of his own making. Nonetheless, we wish Tiger and his family all the best as they deal with the issue. They say no one person is bigger than his or her sport but Tiger might just be the exception to that rule. Golf needs Tiger but whether he can dominate the sport as he did this past decade remains to be seen. Finally, we wish to thank all who have made the publication of this magazine possible, especially to our chairman, Senator Datuk Datin Paduka Nor Hayati Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Onn, who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes. We hope MS3 Golf will become your main source for golfing news in the country.
TheTeam Editor Graig Nunis Editorial Consultants Dhinnesh Kumaran Mohd Tiar Sharif Contributing Editor Rizal Abdullah Publisher Abdullah Abdul Rahman Technical Consultant Nor Afendi Mohd Razlan Communications Consultant Wilsen Leong Marketing Consultant Terence Lee Sales and Marketing Joanna Michael Mohd Asri Jaffar Printer
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month of january 2010
THANK YOU: MS3 Golf Sdn Bhd chairman Senator Datuk Datin Paduka Nor Hayati Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Onn (left) presenting a replica of the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge trophy to Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam
Sukma Melaka Golf Challenge ready to swing into action “This is one of the most ambitious golfing tournaments ever. The qualifying event shall be played during the clubs. Monthly Medal for Men and Ladies at a date set by the respective Golf Club All entries must be submitted online on the prescribed form together with the payment through their respective clubs.” – MS3 Golf Sdn Bhd CEO Nor Afendi Mohd Razlan
Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hj Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam officially launched the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge, to be participated by 60 clubs from all over the country, at the Kota Permai Golf and Country Club recently. The launch of this exciting golf event, which offers over RM500,000 in prizes, also coincided with the 200-day countdown to Sukma Melaka next year. Melaka Governor, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Utama Mohd Khalil Yaakob, who is an avid golfer, is the patron of the Sukma Melaka Golf Challenge. This event, organised by Emata Sdn Bhd and MS3 Golf Sdn Bhd, is part of the state government’s promotional efforts for next year’s Sukma from June 10-19. “Golf is one way to boost sports
tourism and this tournament as well as the Sukma 2010, will certainly help promote Melaka as a holiday destination,” said Datuk Ali, during the launch, which was also attended by National Sports Council directorgeneral Datuk Zolkples Embong. “In fact, Lonely Planet ranks Melaka as the fourth choice holiday destinations for 2010. I believe with more support from the media, it can even be No. 1. This amazing event will help put on the world map too, as the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge will attract over 12,000 participants.” Meanwhile, MS3 Golf Sdn Bhd chairman Senator Datuk Datin Paduka Nor Hayati Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Onn, said: “It is indeed a special day as the Sukma Melaka Golf Challenge
has been launched on the 200th day countdown of the prestigious Games itself. The Sukma Melaka Golf Challenge was organised to help in the promotion of the Sukma Melaka next year. “To help raise awareness about Sukma Melaka, there will be promotional booths at all 60 participating clubs. RTM, which is the host broadcaster for Sukma Melaka will air 26 episodes about the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge on RTM1.” The preliminary rounds, which will begin in January, will be played during the golf clubs’ Monthly Medal for men and women. All entries must be submitted online on the prescribed form together with the payment through their respective clubs. Club
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month of january 2010
“It is indeed a special day as the Sukma Melaka Golf Challenge has been launched on the 200th day countdown of the prestigious Games itself. The Sukma Melaka Golf Challenge was organised to help in the promotion of the Sukma Melaka next year.” – Datuk Datin Paduka Nor Hayati
members only need to pay RM50 to be eligible for the preliminary round. All monies will be payable to the SUKMA XIII MELAKA 2010 SECRETARIAT. Datuk Nor Hayati said the tournament will help revive interest in the clubs’ monthly medal events as players now stand to will even more attractive prizes as besides the monthly medals. The players also stand to win limited edition Sukma 2010 Melaka Mascot merchandise. Among the prizes on offer are limited edition wood covers, bag towels, towels, golf caps, golf balls, shoe bags, stand bags, golf bags T-shirts and gold plated ball markers, all of which will feature the Sukma Melaka mascot. Datuk Nor Hayati added that MS3 will provide a golf management system to all the participating clubs. Clubs will then submit all applications and results on-line. The soonto-be launched website will carry full results and will have video streaming capability. On top of that, accommodation for one night is provided for each semifinalists as well as finalists. The gross and nett champions will also receive the Sukma Challenge Trophy while there will be a lucky draw offering great prizes during the Grand Finals, which will be held in Melaka. MS3 Golf Sdn Bhd CEO Nor
UNVEILING: The Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge trophy is presented to the public for the first time
ON THE SAME PAGE: The VIPs join in during the singing of the Sukma XIII Melaka theme song Afendi Mohd Razlan, said: “This is one of the most ambitious golfing tournaments ever. “The qualifying event shall be played during the clubs’ Monthly
Medal for Men and Ladies at a date set by the respective Golf Club All entries must be submitted online on the prescribed form together with the payment through their re-
spective clubs. “Eventually, we will have 120 participants for the Grand Finals which will be held just before the start of the 2010 Malaysia Games next June.”
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MS3.features
month of january 2010
“The beauty of this tournament is that 15 overall gross and 15 overall nett golfers will qualify from the preliminary round to the 2nd round in March then five gross and five nett will qualify to semi-final. Lastly in each semi-final we will give out 15 gross and 15 nett prizes and select the best 12 gross and 12 nett golfers from each semi-final to qualify for the Grand Final in Melaka which will involve 120 golfers. – Nor Afendi
Afendi’s dream job Nor Afendi Mohd Razlan always had the interest of local golfers at heart. That is why his new position as CEO of MS3 Golf Sdn Bhd can be considered his dream job as it will enable him to give something back to the game he loves so much. Formerly a senior manager at Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, Afendi is the brains behind the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge, a tournament, which is expected to be recognised as the country’s largest golf event with over 12,000 participants, involving 60 golf clubs from 14 states and even one from Brunei. The tournament came about as Afendi sensed a need to revive interest in clubs’ monthly medal tournaments. “I noticed that most clubs struggled to attract their members to participate in their monthly medal tournament. One of the reasons for this was the lack of great prizes,” said Afendi. “As such, I hit upon the idea of having a mega amateur tournament offering fantastic prizes but, instead of holding a one-off event, I thought it would be a great idea to involve as many local clubs as possible in the project and thus, the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge was born. “On the plus side, by tying up with the Melaka State Government, we are also helping to promote the Malaysia Games
(Sukma). This kills two birds with one stone as not only does this tournament help revive interest in the monthly medal events but also helps promote the country’s most important sporting event for youths.” Afendi approached the golf clubs with his idea of using their month medal tournaments as a qualifying round for the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge. Golfers only need to pay RM50 to be eligible for the event but stand to win prizes amounting to RM500,000. While the goodies for each round is worth more than the entrance fee. The players also stand to win limited edition Sukma 2010 Melaka Mascot merchandise. Among the prizes on offer are limited edition wood covers, bag towels, towels, golf caps, golf balls, shoe bags, stand bags, golf bags T-shirts and gold plated ball markers, all of which will feature the Sukma Melaka mascot. On top of that, accommodation for one night is provided for each semi-finalists as well as finalists. The gross and nett champions will also receive the Sukma Challenge Trophy while there will be a lucky draw offering great prizes during the Grand Finals, which will be held in Melaka. “The event is opened to golfers with a handicap of 24 for men and 36 for women. The Melaka Governor, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Utama Mohd Khalil Yaakob
is the patron of this event,” said Afendi. “The beauty of this tournament is that 15 overall gross and 15 overall nett golfers will qualify from the preliminary round to the 2nd round in March then five gross and five nett will qualify to semi-final. Lastly in each semi-final we will give out 15 gross and 15 nett prizes and select the best 12 gross and 12 nett golfers from each semi-final to qualify for the Grand Final in Melaka which will involve 120 golfers. “All in, there will be a total of 12,000 participants which as far as I know, will make the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge the largest golfing event in the country.” Afendi added he hopes to continue with the same concept after Sukma ends in June. “MS3 Golf will try to look for new sponsors for the event as I believe the tournament can be held every year.” Here’s wishing him luck.
“All in, there will be a total of 12,000 participants which as far as I know, will make the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge the largest golfing event in the country.”
month of january 2010
MS3.picture power
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A lively & entertaining launch
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MS3.new
month of january 2010
EVENT DATES NO. CLUB NAME STATE JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 1 DAIMAN 18 JOHOR BAHRU Johor 24 28 2 DESARU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Johor 23 27 21 3 KELAB GOLF BATU PAHAT Johor 24 28 21 4 BUKIT BANANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Johor 24 21 21 5 HORIZON HILLS RESORT Johor 31 28 6 PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Johor 23 TBC TBC 7 PULAI SPRINGS RESORT Johor 10 6 8 STARHILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Johor 30 28 9 TANJONG PUTERI GOLF RESORT Johor 23 27 10 THE LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Johor 30 27 11 CINTA SAYANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kedah 17 20 20 12 DARULAMAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kedah 23 27 13 HARVARD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kedah 10 6 6 14 PERMAIPURA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kedah 2 6 6 15 BLACK FOREST GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kedah 23 20 16 KELANTAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kelantan 16 20 17 BUKIT JALIL GOLF CLUB Kuala Lumpur 24 28 TBC 18 KELAB GOLF TITIWANGSA Kuala Lumpur 24 21 21 19 KUALA LUMPUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kuala Lumpur 16 20 20 A’FAMOSA GOLF RESORT BHD Melaka 24 TBC TBC 21 AYER KEROH COUNTRY CLUB Melaka 17 27 21 22 ORNA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Melaka 16 27 23 TIARA MELAKA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Melaka 10 7 7 24 KELAB DIRAJA SRI MENANTI Negeri Sembilan 10 TBC TBC 25 PORT DICKSON GOLF & COUNTRY Negeri Sembilan 10 7 6 26 STAFFIELD COUNTRY RESORT Negeri Sembilan 17 7 27 Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club Pahang CXL 21 14 28 KELAB GOLF BENTONG Pahang 17 7 7 29 CLEARWATER SANCTUARY GOLF CLUB Perak 17 21 21 30 DAMAI LAUT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Perak 24 7 7 31 KINTA GOLF CLUB Perak 17 14 14 32 MERU VALLEY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Perak 10 28 14 33 TAIPING GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Perak 10 14 14 34 KELAB GOLF PUTRA Perlis 3 7 7 35 BUKIT JAWI GOLF RESORT Pulau Pinang 16 20 20 36 MOUNTAIN VIEW RESORT Pulau Pinang 30 27 37 KARAMBUNAI RESORTS GOLF CLUB Sabah 23 27 38 LABUAN GOLF CLUB Sabah 3 7 7 39 RANAU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Sabah 17 21 21 40 SUTERA HARBOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Sabah 10 6 6 41 TAWAU (HOT SPRING) GOLF CLUB Sabah 17 28 TBC 42 TAMBUNAN GOLF CLUB Sabah 16 20 13 43 KENINGAU GOLF CLUB Sabah 17 6 6 44 BUKIT UNGGUL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Selangor 16 27 45 KELAB GOLF SULTAN ABD AZIZ Selangor 10 14 14 46 KELAB RAHMAN PUTRA MALAYSIA Selangor 3 6 7 47 DANAU GOLF CLUB Selangor 17 28 48 KELAB GOLF SRI MORIB Selangor 10 7 7 49 KOTA PERMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Selangor 17 21 7 50 MONTEREZ GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Selangor 24 7 7 51 PERANGSANG TEMPLER GOLF CLUB Selangor 24 21 21 52 TROPICANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Selangor 16 20 20 53 AWANA KIJAL GOLF & BEACH RESORT Terengganu 17 20 20 54 GREEN ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Terengganu 8 5 12 55 KELAB GOLF DESA DUNGUN Terengganu 23 20 21 56 KUALA TERENGGANU GOLF RESORT Terengganu 30 20 20 57 PANAGA GOLF CLUB Brunei 10 7 7
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MS3.news
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“I heard about the SUKMA XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge for a few weeks. I’m always willing to support government programmes especially when they involved sports. “I hope more players will take part in the competition and I will practice much harder for the next round next month.” – Din Yunus
Din shows the way in SUKMA XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge SUKMA XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge Scores Kelab Golf Putra Perlis Gross Position Name Score 1. Hasan Rejab 2. Masrizan Henny Musa 3. Abdulah Zaidi Abdullah 4. Harris Kamaruddin 5. Che Ahmad Che Man
77 81 83 84 85
Nett 1. Zulkifli Che Ahmad 2. Aizad Nazihef Kasim 3. Hj Rosley Mat 4. Adzmi Abu Zarim 5. Mohamad Ismail
69 70 72 72 73
Permaipura Golf and Country Club
Nett winner Din Yunos Playing under at the golf course is always better than a good day at the office, so the saying goes, and for amateur golfer Din Yunos, he could not be more pleased when he emerged as the nett winner in Kelab Rahman Putra qualifying round for the SUKMA XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge. Speaking after his one-under 71 which saw him finished ahead of club President Datuk Mohd Anuar Sidek, Din said that it was a good feeling to have played well – even
better as he was rewarded. “I did not train particular hard for the tournament although playing among friends in a club which I know so well, was most relaxing,” said Din, who walked away with a RM300 golf voucher. “I heard about the SUKMA XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge for a few weeks. I’m always willing to support government programmes especially when they involved sports. “I hope more players will take part in the competition and I will
practice much harder for the next round next month.” While Din carded a 71 to take the top spot, Mohamad Dit finished second with an even par 72. Alex Kee was third with 73. Club president Mohd Anuar finished fifth with 74. In the Gross category, Jamil Ismail took the top prize and also aRM300 golf voucher with a score of 78 – three ahead of Danny Lai on 81 and four ahead of third-placed Mohd Ibrahim Omar on 82.
more and more players would want to be involved in this type of challenge. Since, we are a member-only club; this programme will also encourage our players to interact with players from other clubs.” He said that the SUKMA challenge is beneficial to amateur players as there is every possibility of them taking the game a little more seriously than they normally would.
70 80 80 81 81
Nett 1. Basharudin 2. CheYa Wahab 3. Nadri Abu Bakar 4. Azmi Ariffin 5. Onn Cheng Sam
68 70 70 71 72
Gross winner Jamil Ismail Jamil said he is looking to go all the way in the SUKMA Golf Challenge where he has been feeling good in the run-up to the round at Kelab Rahman Putra. “It is my best ever results and I’m looking to doing ever better in the second round,” added Jamil. “For amateurs like us, playing in the SUKMA XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge to encourages to be better than just looking at the game in terms of just recreation alone.”
A good way for golfers to interact Datuk Mohd Anuar, the president of Kelab Rahman Putra feels that the SUKMA XII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge is not only a great way to support the biennial Malaysia Games but also gives further impetus to golfing at the club level. “The prize on offer is good enough – better than the monthly medal,” said Datuk Mohd, who shot a 74 to finish fifth in the nett category. “I believe that with more awareness,
Gross 1. Khor Tak Joo 2. Zulkafli Mohd Yusof 3. Ariff 4. Basri Abu Bakar 5. Bakri Kassim
4th “And of course with the added incentive of travelling to play at other courses with their expenses paid meant that the golfers can look forward to playing against other golfers and at other courses around the country,” added Datuk Mohd Anuar. “Certainly, I can see the benefit of this programme which will not only benefit the promotion of the SUKMA but also our golf programmes as well.”
Labuan Golf Club Gross 1. Benedik Bakri Awang 2. Hj Ismanto Isnanthomo 3. Francis Lee 4. Joannes Pius 5. Abd Wahib Yunus
76 78 79 80 80
Nett 1. Sabdin Khan 2. Abdul Talib Harun 3. Samsul Mandisin 4. Tan Teck Soo 5. Mohd Kamal Gjani
70 71 73 73 73
Kelab Golf Rahman Putra Gross 1. Jamil Ismail 2. Lai Nyuk Seong 3. Mohd Ibrahim b Omar 4. Nicholas Leong Lupp Fey 5. Hasbullah Hashim
78 81 82 83 83
Nett 1. DinYunus 2. Mohamad b Dit 3. Alex Kee Cheng Fu 4. Lim Hock Seng 5. Dato Mohd Anuar b Sidek
71 72 73 73 74
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MS3.SUKMA NEWS
month of january 2010
“Sukma belongs to all Malaysians so we are trying to make it affordable for everyone to cheer on their states. We must maintain our reputation as an affordable holiday destination. I think the decision has paid off as many hotels are already fully booked and some have even received cash deposits.” – Radzi Shaari
Radzi: We are ready for Sukma
MS3.SUKMA NEWS
month of january 2010
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“Hosting Sukma will have a positive effect on Melaka’s sporting culture as the state athletes will have many international class facilities to train at. Creating local and international sporting heroes is a long process and we will work with the MSC to ensure the venues are fully utilised after Sukma.” Melaka Sukma CEO Tuan Haji Radzi Shaari is confident the historical state will organise the best ever Malaysia Games next year. It is no empty boast as most of the venues are ready and much thought has been put into the planning of the event. Radzi said one of the most important aspects of the planning was the decision to host the different events outside the city centre in a bid to avoid traffic jams. “We were mindful of traffic congestion and that is why nearly all the events will be held outside the city centre,” he explained. “For instance, wushu, table tennis and archery will be held at Uniten, MITC will host weight lifting, netball, sepaktakraw, badminton, silat and bowling. Silamban and karate is at Rambun Cina, boxing in Jasin, gymnastics in Melimau and golf will be held at the Ayer Keroh Country Club. “All these are not in highly populated residential or business areas and this will certainly ease the traffic flow. In fact, many of the venues are located quite close to the entrances to Melaka, making travel easy for the participants. “There is about six months to go
before the Games begin and nearly all the venues are operational. Those which have yet to open their doors will be completed by the end of January, at the very latest. “That will give us about five months to test them and iron out any kinks, if any. Overall, I’m delighted to say, we are confident of becoming the most successful hosts ever.” He added the Sukma secretariat have also taken into consideration the long term usage of the venues as they do not want them to turn into White Elephants. With that in mind, the secretariat will work closely with
the Melaka Sports Council (MSC) to ensure the local athletes will be able to utilise the venues once the games are over. “Hosting Sukma will have a positive effect on Melaka’s sporting culture as the state athletes will have many international class facilities to train at. Creating local and international sporting heroes is a long process and we will work with the MSC to ensure the venues are fully utilised after Sukma,” he said. Radzi added local and foreign tourists will also be pleasantly surprised as the hotel room rates will
remain the same during Sukma. “It has become the norm to increase hotel rates when a state or country host a major event like Sukma or SEA Games. However, the hotel room rates will not be inflated as we want to get as many tourists – local and foreign – to visit Melaka,” said Radzi. “Sukma belongs to all Malaysians so we are trying to make it affordable for everyone to cheer on their states. We must maintain our reputation as an affordable holiday destination. I think the decision has paid off as many hotels are already fully booked
and some have even received cash deposits.” Radzi also applauded the introduction of the Sukma X111 Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge which he said will definitely generate more interest for the Games. He said the sponsors would also be happy with the amount of publicity generated. The Sukma X111 Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge is a six-month long amateur tournament and will be held all over Malaysia. Close to 60 golf clubs have already signed up for the event and more than 12,000 golfers are expected to take part. “Never before has Sukma had such an innovative promotional campaign. We are proud to be the first state to come up with this idea. It will surely draw attention to Melaka. Internally, we are already promoting the games but as we draw closer to June, we will also organise road shows,” said Radzi. “We have a committee who will travel to other states as well to spread the word about Sukma. I’m sure the sponsors are also delighted with the activities as they are certainly getting more than they bargained for. “Overall, it is a win-win situation and I for one can’t wait for the Games to begin.”
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month of january 2010
Among the list of national athletes who have featured in the past editions of the Sukma include squash queen Datuk Nicol Ann David, world No 1 shuttler Datuk Lee Chong Wei, bowler Shahlin Zulkifli and sprinter Nazmizan Mohamad.
NICOL: The world first got a a glimpse of her talent when she competed in Sukma
Sukma – how it all began THERE was a serious need for a multi-sports competition involving some of the finest young athletes in the country. Thus, the great minds in the sporting industry engineered the inaugural Malaysia Games, better known as Sukma, in 1986. The event was initiated by the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports and organised by the state sports council. The initial plan was to hold the first Sukma on Aug 15 to September 2, 1985 , contesting six sports – athletics, cycling, sepak takraw, table tennis, tennis and volleyball. This sparked interest among
observers and officials who insisted on making the event popular and prestigious. On Feb 5, 1985, the board of directors chaired by the thenYouth, Culture and Sports Minister Datuk Dr Sulaiman Daud agreed to organise the event the following year with the theme “Malaysia Incorporated”. A high-powered committee also chairmed by Dr Sulaiman was established in July 6, 1985 where 16 sports – athletics, aquatics, badminton, basketball, cycling, cricket, football, hockey, netball, rugby, sepak takraw, squash, table tennis, taekwondo,
tennis and volleyball – were identified to be contested in the inaugural event. Among the members of the high powered committee included former Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Haniff Omar, former KL Mayor Tan Sri Elyas Omar, former Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Tan Sri Datuk Seri Setia Raha Hamzah Abu Samah and current OCM president Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar. Sukma is tailored to spot and identify young talents at the district and state levels in order to create a larger pool of national athletes of the
future. Sukma has also developed certain games in the country and is also seen as a good avenue to create a harmonious atmosphere among athletes and officials of different races. Its objective is to also encourage more individuals to take up sports, generally, and get the masses involved in the organisational or administrative aspects of Sukma. Sukma is also a good excuse for the state government to repair, rebuild or construct sporting facilities within the host state in a bid to encourage its citizens to
take up sports and lead a healthy lifestyle. Among the list of national athletes who have featured in the past editions of the Sukma include squash queen Datuk Nicol Ann David, world No 1 shuttler Datuk Lee Chong Wei, bowler Shahlin Zulkifli and sprinter Nazmizan Mohamad. The list of hosts since Sukma’s inception in 1986 are KL (1988), Sarawak (1990), Johor (1992), Perak (1994), Pahang (1996), Selangor (1998), Penang (2000), Sabah (2002), Negri Sembilan (2004), Kedah (2006), Terengganu (2008) and Malacca (2010).
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“Melaka is indeed proud to have been given the opportunity to hold a world-class event like the QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup, where more than 90 countries and about 150 bowlers will compete.” – Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam
Record number of sports for sukma xiii
Formula Future, canoe, golf, kabaddi, rugby, volleyball, judo, fencing, tennis, synchronised swimming and water polo have been added to the Sukma XIII schedule, taking the total number of sports to 34. This is the highest ever number of sports to be contested during the biennial Malaysia Games. Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said he was convinced by Melaka Chief Minister that the historical state could cope with the additional games and that was the main reason to include the new sports. However, the organising committee decided to implement a new rule where there must be a minimum requirement of eight participants if the sport is to be contested.
New centre a boost for bowling in Melaka The RM25 milillon Melaka International Bowling Centre (MIBC) at Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Ayer Keroh has certainly put Melaka on the world map. The newly opened venue, which will play host to the Malaysia Games (Sukma) bowling competition next year, recently hosted 45th QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup. “Melaka is indeed proud to have been given the opportunity to hold a world-class event like the QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup, where more than 90 countries and about 150 bowlers will compete,” said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam.
“It is indeed an honour for Melaka where the championship is coming to Malaysia for only the second time in the 45 years history of the championship. (The championship was first hosted at the Miramar Bowl in Kuala Lumpur in 1987.” Mohd Ali also said Melaka would be known to 500 million people around the world as the championship was aired in all the participating countries while three international stations – ESPN, Eurosports and Fox TV – had daily coverage. In Malaysia, AstroSports 2 (Channel 816) carried the semi-finals and finals live. Mohd Ali said the 52-lane MIBC would also
help promote the sport to a larger number of locals and unearth potential world-class players for the country. “MIBC will be used to coach the state team for Sukma XIII. We will also be on the lookout for new talents to represent the country,” he said, adding that promoting bowling as a recreational and family activity would help keep youths away from unhealthy activities. Work on the double-storey bowling centre, spread over 5ha, began on Aug 1, 2007 and was completed on July 21 this year. The centre is owned by state subsidiary Bowlplex Sdn Bhd and managed by Benua Aspirasi Sdn Bhd.
Sharon can be Melaka’s Idol Datuk Nicol David may be the undisputed No.1 squash player in the world but it is Sharon Wee who can be an inspiration for the Melaka Sukma team. Sharon, who was a former national player, is the historical state’s best known squash player and her achievements will surely be a major motivation for new generation of Melaka players. The construction of eight international-standard public courts at the Stadium Hang Jebat Complex in Kru-
bong will also help the Melaka Squash Racquets Association (MSRA) in their development programmes. Currently, the lack of standard courts, odd booking times and high rentals are hampering local junior talents from making marked progress in their game. Of the eight public and private courts available, only two meet international competitive standards. MSRA president Andrew Muthu told The Star, squash is booming with a steadily-increasing number of school players and juniors joining develop-
ment and coaching programmes and turning up for competitions despite the lack of courts prior to the completion of the ones at Krubong. The squads Boys: Goh Wei Sien, Goh Wei Juin, Jong Yan Xin Amiruddin Mansor, Wong Quee Xiang and Mohd Izuan Hamran. Girls: Nordiana Lali, Norwajiha Lali, Norazira Karim, Norazura Karim, Adele Han and Goh Jing Xin.
Silambam for Olympics?
THE Malaysian Silambam Association (MSA) want to make the Indian traditional martial art of silambam an Olympic sport. MSA president R.C. Veeraseelan said that as a first step, silambam would be promoted in 10 countries by next year. Silambam was introduced in Malaysia about 30 years ago and is recognised by the Malaysian Sports Council. The martial art will be a competitive sport at Sukma in 2010. Efforts are being taken to promote the art at the SEA Games and the Asian Games, Veeraseelan said. He lauded the recent decision to include silamban in next year’s Malaysia Games as it will help develop the sport at the grassroots.
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MS3.SUKMA NEWS
month of january 2010
Marketing and branding is important in every event. Host states should emphasise the need to ‘sell’ Sukma in a bid to appeal to the masses. This will give potential advertisers an avenue to market their products.
Time to streamline Sukma There is an urgent need to standardise events in the Malaysia Games (Sukma). For years this has been a debate among sports officials and observers as the ‘gold-medal rush’ attitude adopted by the host states sees Olympic sports – such as basketball and tennis –being left out in favour of traditional sports. While there is nothing wrong with traditional sports, we must ensure that all Olympic sports are contested at Sukma as this is the venue where our future champions will come from. How can we hope to produce an Olympian when we even ignore these sports in Sukma? The women’s basketball team are strong gold medal contenders at the Sea Games level while the country hosts some of the finest tennis players from around the globe every year. In fact, the nation even hosted an ATP 250 event in 2008! Yet these two sports have often been left out of Sukma. Sukma is said to be an avenue for younger athletes to perform and thus there is a dire need to ensure that such athletes – regardless of their sporting backgrounds – are able to compete at the national level. Of course athletes have their respective national Opens to look out for. Nevertheless, Sukma remains as the ultimate national Games for all. With certain sports being left out, the state associations do not enjoy generous funding from their respective state sports councils and this could dampen their annual programmes. Therefore there is a serious need to cap the number of events and allow host states to include a handful of other sports. The Sukma is also a good excuse for host states to improve on their sporting facilities. As grants are kept aside for refurnishing and construction purposes, it is only logical to build such facilities in and around educational institutions in order to promote sports at the grassroots. It must be impressed upon the masses that main objective of sports is to lead a healthy lifestyle. The public must be allowed to use such sporting facilities at a minimal price – if not free – to ensure they are able to fully utilise every cent spent in the construction and maintenance works. Host states could take cue from the
2007 Sea Games in Thailand, where the organisers constructed sporting facilities within their public universities while the main stadium in Nakhon Ratchasima is open to public. Marketing and branding is important in every event. Host states should emphasise the need to ‘sell’ Sukma in a bid to appeal to the masses. This will give potential advertisers an avenue to market their products. Even the young athletes could be pushed into the limelight. Host states should come up with a series of programmes inviting their young talents to go around schools and speak to students or get involved in community projects to ensure they achieve a form of celebrated status. This will not only get the Sukma going but also elevate the status of the athletes. Cottage industries should also capitalise on Sukma. Through the aid and guidance by the relevant state authorities, small time entrepreneurs could see the Sukma as a stepping stone into setting up businesses or even test their market before going big scale on a certain project. This will allow the locals an opportunity to make extra income. Athletes, media practitioners, fans and officials from other states should be exposed to the local cultures, food, traditions and tourist spots to ensure that these individuals visit the host state on a personal capacity in the future. L a s tly, Sukma could be also be an avenue where latest sports developments, whether in sports advancement or doping, be tested as to expose our young athletes to the latest trends in the world of sports.
Sukma is said to be an avenue for younger athletes to perform and thus there is a dire need to ensure that such athletes – regardless of their sporting backgrounds – are able to compete at the national level.
Top tennis stars flock to Malaysia but tennis was almost left out of the 2010 Sukma
MS3.news
month of january 2010
17
“I used to watch the golf greats on television an wished that one day, they would come and play a PGA tournament right here in Malaysia and now, thanks to Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew, Founder of The MINES, that dream will become a reality.” – Dato Sri Mohd Najib
A dream come true as PGA TOUR comes to Malaysia Malaysian Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak has achieved many great things in his life and has reached the highest office in the land but there was one burning ambition he had yet to fulfil. And that is a dream to host a PGA event right here in Malaysia. Dreams do come true and the Malaysian Prime Minister only has to wait another 10 months before witnessing the Asia Pacific Golf Classic, Malaysia 2010 at The MINES Resort & Golf Club which will be part of the 2010 PGA TOUR late-season calendar. The PGA TOUR and Asian Tour, in partnership with Carbon Worldwide and PGA Promotions of Malaysia, will organise the event late next year but the dates of competition will be announced in the near future. It is a move that will seal Malaysia’s place in the annals of golf in Asia Pacific and Southeast Asia. “This is the fulfilment of a boyhood dream,” said Dato Sri Mohd Najib. “I used to watch the golf greats on television an wished that one day, they would come and play a PGA tournament right here in Malaysia and now, thanks to Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew, Founder of The MINES, that dream will become a reality.” This long-term agreement represents the PGA TOUR’s first multi-year tournament agreement in Southeast Asia. The inaugural Asia Pacific Golf Classic, Malaysia 2010 will feature an international field of 40 players competing at The MINES’ 7,280-yard, par 72 Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf course for a USD $6 million purse, with $1 million going to the winner, making it the 15 richest golf event in the world. It will be part of the PGA TOUR’s international television distribution package that has an international audience of over 450 million households around the world across 200 countries in 34 different languages. The top 25 players from the PGA TOUR’s final FedExCup standings will automatically qualify, as will the top-10 available players from the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit. The field will be filled by five sponsor exemptions. At least one Malaysian professional will be guaranteed a place in the field. Carbon Worldwide will serve as the tournament host organisation. Details of the tournament were revealed during a press conference at The MINES Resort & Golf Club that featured Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Kim Yew, Matthew Rapp, Vice President Business Development, PGA TOUR, Htwe Hla Han, Senior Director, Tour Development and Keld Kristiansen, Executive Chairman, Carbon Worldwide. “Malaysia is rapidly emerging as Asia’s leading golf destination, with over 200 golf courses currently available around the country. It has
DREAMS DO COME TRUE: Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak (third from left) with the rest of the VIPs at the press conference to announce the Asia Pacific Golf Classic, Malaysia 2010
bloomed as the ideal destination for combining a memorable vacation with an exciting game of golf; and the hosting of a PGA TOUR event is testimony to Malaysia’s strong golfing heritage,”
said Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib. He further emphasised on the importance of having such world class events in Malaysia that will enhance the country’s standing in the interna-
STEPPING OUT IN STYLE: Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak (third from right) with his new golf set
tional sporting arena. “With a purse money of USD $6 million and the US PGA Tour commitment, I am confident that together, we can make this a great event in the Asia Pacific.,” said Kim Yew Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han said the Asian Tour was looking forward to its first collaboration with the PGA Tour and expressed the tours’ appreciation to the government of Malaysia, the MINES Resort and Carbon Worldwide for initiating the new and exciting tournament. “The launch of the Asia Pacific Golf Classic, Malaysia 2010 will create a wonderful opportunity for 10 Asian Tour stars to take on the elite players from the PGA Tour.” Speaking on behalf of the PGA TOUR, Rapp said: “This is indeed very exciting for the PGA TOUR to be able to venture into Southeast Asia, an opportunity made possible through the commitment shown by the Malaysian government, the organisational capabilities of Carbon Worldwide and PGA Promotions of Malaysia, and access to a world-class golf facility in The MINES Resort & Golf Club. Southeast Asia has great potential for burgeoning growth in golf, and we are extremely pleased to take this significant first step into the marketplace.”
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MS3.NEWS
month of january 2010
“I worked very hard to before and during the 100PLUS Malaysian Junior Open and it paid dividends. That taught me a valuable lesson – there is no short cut to success. Hard work, positive thinking and grim determination has since been part of my make up. We reap what we sow.” – Kelly Tan
Golf princess wants to conquer the world new records for the individual and team events. Gavin and I did a great job to become the first Malaysian pair to win and that was really satisfying,” said Kelly, who won the Selangor Ladies Amateur Open in January. “We believed right from the start that we could be the winners, even though many had predicted the Thais would be the favourites. We had to stay focussed and think positive as that is a key asset to have. “I worked very hard to before and during the 100PLUS Malaysian Junior Open and it paid dividends. That taught me a valuable lesson – there is no short cut to success. Hard work, positive thinking and grim determination has since been part of my make up. We reap what we sow.” Kelly’s bubbly personality is infectious and one can’t help but smile whenever she is around. But beneath the surface lies a strong desire to prove she has what it takes to make in on the world stage. And she spends countless hours practising to perfect her game. “There is not much time to do anything else as I have to study as well. I usually relax by playing with my computer or taking a stroll down to the shopping mall. I try to watch a movie once in a while,” she said. “But really, the focus is on improving my game. I have big plans for the future and hope to be playing in the LPGA within five years. It is a lofty goal, but one I am confident is within reach.” If she continues working hard, then the sky is the limit for Malaysia’s golfing princess.
Kelly Tan has always believed in the power of positive thinking. It is what sets her apart from many other teenagers and could be the key to turning her into one of Malaysia best ever golfers. The 16-year-old created history in August when she became the first Malaysian female to win the 100PLUS Malaysian Junior Open girls’ overall crown after finishing with an even par-72 at the Bukit Jawi Golf Resort in Penang for a threeday total of nine-over 225. It wasn’t an easy victory as Kelly only won the title on the final hole with a birdie putt from two feet after losing the second round lead to Philippines’ Marvi. Pavenuch. Kelly had earlier teamed up with Gavin Kyle Green to become the first Malaysian pair to win 100PLUS Malaysian Junior Open team title. “Wining the 100PUS Malaysian Junior Open was really great because I created
Two bronze medals for Malaysia
BRONZE BABES: Kelly Tan, Ainil Johani Abu Bakar and Michelle Koh past and present winners of the 100PLUS Malaysian Junior Open helped the nation win a team bronze in the SEA Games. Kelly also won bronze in the individual event
Kelly Tan helped Malaysia win two bronze medals in golf at the Laos SEA Games which ended recently. Kelly, who won the 2009 100PLUS Malaysian Junior Open, upset the more fancied golfers to clinch third place in the individual event when she recorded her bestever three-round score of 72-71-70 for a total of three-under 213. Filipina Ikeda Chihiro won the individual gold, beating Thailand’s K. Yupatorn in a playoff after both were tied at 210. The Philippines also won the team event on 425, ahead of
Thailand (428) SEA Games Golf Club in Booyoung Lao.. Kelly, a Form Four student of Datuk Syed Esa Secondary School, could have made it an even more memorable day in the individual event. She was just a shot behind Yupatorn going into the last hole but a bogey dashed her hopes of a silver-medal finish. “For an amateur like me, the highest level we can go to represent Malaysia is the SEA Games. Winning two medals here is a great start for me even though I came here
eyeing a gold,” she said. “It’s great to achieve my best-ever three-round score here. It has been an awesome three days out there for me.” The men’s team of Mohd Iszaimi Ismail, Gavin Kyle Green, Nicholas Fung and Mohd Iylia Jamil finished fourth with a total score of 862. Nicholas was the best individual performer in sixth place with a four-round total of four-under 284. Thailand’s S. Wasin emerged as the champion with a score of 277. The Thais also took the team gold with a total of 845.
20
MS3. NEWS
month of january 2010
“We have set aside RM100 million for this new industry-cum-academy but may not need to spend that much as there are many golf clubs which can assist us by allowing us the use of their facilities. – Datuk Ahmad Shahbery
New association to take care of golfers “We are still working on the calendar for 2010 but the professionals are assured of at least one tournament a month over the next 12 months. There will definitely be more good news but for now, I’m just glad the matter has been resolved.”
Wednesday December 23 2009 will go down in history as a new beginning for professional golf in the country. It was on this date that Youth and Sports Minister YB Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek announced the formation of a pro-tem committee of the Professional Golfers Association of Malaysia (PGAM) which replaces the deregistered Malaysia Professional Golfers Association (MPGA). Datuk Ahmad Shabery, who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring an end to the dispute among the previous office bearers of the now
defunct MPGA and the professional players, said he is confident the new association will take care of the needs of the professionals in the country. “The Prime Minister YA B Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak had expressed concerned about the deadlock between the MPGA and the professional golfers in the country and he asked me to step to solve the problems,” said Datuk Ahmad Shabery. “As such, I held talks with all the parties involved in the dispute and am pleased that they have agreed to the formation of the new association.
My ministry will be helping out the PGAM for three years as we need to have a strong foundation to win back the confidence of the sponsors. “We are still working on the calendar for 2010 but the professionals are assured of at least one tournament a month over the next 12 months. There will definitely be more good news but for now, I’m just glad the matter has been resolved.” The minister said Sime Darby, who owns Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC), played an important role by sponsoring several events in the local calendar and
Sivachandran wins PNB Order of Merit Malaysian professional golfer S. Sivachandran’s decision to forgo the chance to compete in the inaugural King’s Cup in Thailand paid dividends as he lifted his second title of the year in the PNB Order of Merit tournament at the Impian Golf and Country Resort in Kajang. The Kedah-born golfer won the threeday tournament after beating Airil Rizman in a sudden death play-off at the 18th hole.
Sivachandran finished with a five-under 67 for the second successive day to match Airil’s total score of 12-under 204. Airil shot 68 and 66 to lead after the first two days but could only managed a closing round of two-under 70. Rashid Ismail and M. Sasidaran shared third spot with 210 while two-time British Open qualifier Danny Chia and R. Nachimuthu tied for fifth spot one stroke behind.
The Order of Merit tournament is the year-ending event and participated by the top 60 money earners from all tournaments held in the country. Sivachandran pocketed RM22,000 and the win will give him a big lift in confidence as he looks forward to the Asian Tour Qualifying School campaign in Thailand. The 30-year-old skipped the week’s season-ending Asian Tour event to do
a bit of soul searching after a couple of uninspiring outings in the last few months. He was one of the three Malaysians to make the cut in the Maybank Malaysian Open earlier in the year. He also finished fourth and sixth in the respective Malacca Heritage Classic and Mercedes-Benz Masters Malaysia before ending up in 17th lace in the Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters in August.
MS3.NEWS
month of january 2010
21
Tentative PGAM 2010 Calendar Event
Venue
Prize money
Feb/March PNB Kinrara Open PNB Impian Classic Maybank Malaysia Open
Kinrara GC Impian GC KLGCC
April/May PNB Lanjut Masters
Lanjut GC
RM50,000
May/June Selcon Negri Masters
SIGC
RM500,000
June/July Asian Tour
To be confirmed
US$60,000
RM50,000 RM50,000 US$2 million
July/Aug Terengganu Masters Tuanku Mirzan GC RM180,000 Worldwide Selangor Masters Sri Selangor GC US$300,000 Aug/Sept Steve Challenge Oct/Nov Iskandar Johor Open PGA Tour Dec PNB Championship
challenged more local companies to follow in their footsteps. Meanwhile, Datuk Ahmad Shahbery also announced that his ministry is looking at setting up a golf academy to further develop the game at the grassroots. As he rightly pointed out, Malaysia is known for having many well designed courses but not many champions. He cited the recently concluded SEA Games as an example where Malaysia only won two bronze medals while countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore are far ahead.
Cinta Sayang GC
RM80,000
Royal Johor GC The Mines RGC
US$2,250,000 US$6 million
To be confirmed
RM80,000
“We have set aside RM100 million for this new industry-cum-academy but may not need to spend that much as there are many golf clubs which can assist us by allowing us the use of their facilities. “Not only do I want to see more Malaysians winning on the international stage, this academy will also help train many people in many other aspects of the game. For example, we can reduce the number of foreign caddies if the academy can teach more locals about the finer points of the game,” said Datuk Ahmad Shahbery.
tournament However, Sivachandra’s putter turned cold after that and he eventually finished out of the top 65 in the Asian Tour Order of Merit. Sivachandran, who played in 13 tournaments, finished with US$28,815. “My performance was not so good after the Selangor Masters and I did not want to go for the King’s Cup this week. It was the last Asian Tour event but my confidence level was not so good and I wanted to play in the PNB
Order of Merit,” he told The Star. “I’m glad I made the right decision and won for first time and it’s a good boost for my confidence as well. I also want to thank the sponsors, especially PNB, for supporting local golfing scene. The money earned will also help me to finance my trip to Thailand for the Asian Tour Qualifying School. “It is quite expensive to play in the Qualifying School because there are two
stages as the field is quite big. Actually, myself and Airil have secured the country exemption for the Asian Tour. We can play in up to eight events next year but I want to try to win a place in the Qualifying School as it will give me more starts.” Sivachandran, who turned professional in 2006, earned his playing rights in the Asian Tour through the Qualifying School, where he finished in the top 40.
A programme to produce local champions Malaysia has always been the perfect host as it has always ‘allowed’ its guests to walk away with the Malaysian Open title ever since the inaugural event in 1962. However, a programme called “In search of a Malaysian Champion” could well see the end of the title drought. Initiated by Sime Darby, the programme seeks to see the first local Maybank Malaysian Open champion in 2010. The tournament will be held at the newly renovated Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC) from March 4-7, which is wholly-owned by Sime Darby. Six Malaysian professional golfers who will play in the tournament – Danny Chia, Iain Steel, S. Siva Chandran, Shaaban Hussin, Ben Leong and Airil Rizman – are involved in the programme. The players will be entitled to utilise golfing and recreational facilities at the KLGCC and will undergo a comprehensive fourweek training stint under Andrew Nicholson, the senior director of instruction for IMG, which is the world’s premier and most diversified, sports, entertainment and media company. KLGCC director Datuk Tunku Putra Badlishah Tunku Annuar told The Star the move is in line with the Sime Darby Group’s efforts to promote sports development in the country. “We hope that the participating Malaysian golf professionals will take advantage of the programme, which is designed to help them perform to their full potential for the upcoming Maybank Malaysian Open 2010,” said Tunku Badlishah. “We will also allow the six golfers to gain a competitive edge as they are able to familiarise themselves with the course set-up and conditions. “The programme under Andrew, which began on Jan 3, will concentrate on mental and physical conditioning such as tournament preparation and play, course management, biomechanics, short game and video analysis.” Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) president Datuk Robin Loh said that the programme would certainly improve the level of the game of the Malaysian players and provide them with some precious home ground advantage. Danny, Malaysia’s top professional, said that the training and facilities offered to the Malaysian professionals was welcome as the programme will allow them to receive world class training in addition to getting to know the tournament course better.
22
MS3. CLUB NEWS
month of january 2010
“The designers of the course very wisely maintained a large part of the virgin jungle so as to limit as much as possible the negative ecological impact the golf course would have on the area. Today golfers share the course with a varied species of birds, monkeys and squirrels, and monitor lizards that live in the jungle lining the fairways of the course.
A touch of Royalty
Ayer Keroh Country Club (AKCC) is a course fit for royalty. The present Agong, Tuanku Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, the 16th Sultan of Terengganu, has played here twice since his installation as Malaysia’s 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Club manager Abas Yahya said Tuanku Mirza first played at Ayer Keroh in 2007 and the second time was during Melaka Governor Tun Datuk Seri Utama Mohd Khalil Yaakob’s 71st birthday celebration in the middle of November. “We are proud that our King has twice played on our course. It
certainly is a big honour for us,” he said. “Our club is 45-years-old, having first opened its doors in 1964 and it was designed by a team led by Tun Dr. Ghaffar Baba, the then Chief Minister of Melaka, and a golfing aficionado. “The designers of the course very wisely maintained a large part of the virgin jungle so as to limit as much as possible the negative ecological impact the golf course would have on the area. Today golfers share the course with a varied species of birds, monkeys and squirrels, and monitor lizards that live in the jungle lining the fairways of the course. “It is this unique attraction which appeals to golf lovers. We are now in the midst of upgrading the club’s facilities to make it even more beautiful.” Abas, who first joined AKCC in 1983, stayed with them till 1996 before moving to Kajang Hill Golf Club. The lure of coming home to spruce up the club which hosted the 1989 Malaysian Open was too good to ignore and he returned in 2006 after receiving a call from AKCC chairman Datuk Wira Ahmad Hamzah. “I could not turn him down as the lure of coming back home was too great. Also, I looked at it as a challenge to bring the club back to its former glory. We have done a lot of improvements since I returned.
MS3.CLUB NEWS
month of january 2010
23
Ayer Keroh Country Club is located a mere 10-minutes from the Ayer Keroh Interchange of the main North - South Highway. Located beside the course is the zoo and “Dataran Merdeka” (Independence Square) - both popular tourist spots. The golf course carved out of virgin jungle and ready for play in 1964 was designed by a team led by Tun Dr. Ghaffar Baba, the then Chief Minister of Melaka, and a golfing aficionado. The designers of the course very wisely maintained a large part of the virgin jungle so as to limit as much as possible the negative ecological impact the golf course would have on the area. Today golfers share the course with a varied species of birds, monkeys and squirrels, and monitor lizards that live in the jungle lining the fairways of the course. The original course consisted of two nines referred to as Tunku and Ghaffar’s Nine. A third nine (Governor’s Nine) was added in the mid-nineties. The three nines hug a lake known as the Ayer Keroh Lake which comes into play at quite a few of the holes. Ayer Keroh has its fair share of bunkers and other obstacles at strategic places, but the course is notorious for the jungle that lines both sides of almost every fairway and unmercifully punishes each and every wayward shot. In AKCC - “ A ball lost is indeed a ball lost”. AKCC has hosted a number of major championships, the most prestigious being the 1989 Malaysian Open. A few notable golfers playing on the professional circuit now in Europe, America, Asia and Australia have played here at one time or other. Some illustrious names are Kyi Hla Han, Lucas Parsons, Stephen Leany and Jeff Maggart. For golfers who come to Melaka, the visit must include a round of golf at AKCC. The natural setting, the sheer length and the challenges of the course will make it an unforgettable experience. Last but not least of the attractions of AKCC is the 19th Hole, the only friendly hole on the course. The comedies, the tragedies and the histories narrated here, will compare with those of the Bard himself, and cheer you up enough, to forget your own gallant but unsuccessful effort to tame the course. GOLF Open daily from 7.00am - 7.00pm Booking Tee-Off Time (Through e-mail) Saturdays / Sundays / Public Holidays
GOLFING RATE Monthly Subscription RM70 + 5% Govt. Tax = RM73.50 Nomination Fee RM500 - Change of Nominee Corporate (Malaysian) Rm1000 - Change of Nominee Corporate (Foreigners) Transferable Membership RM10 Club Affiliation 36 Clubs Signing Deposit RM1000
1st Nine (GOVERNOR) Morning Session 7.30am -9.30am Course closed 9.30am -12.30pm Afternoon Session 12.30pm - 2.30pm Course closed 2.30pm - 5.00pm 2nd Nine (TUNKU) Morning Session 7.30am -9.30am Course closed 9.30am -12.30pm Afternoon Session 12.30pm - 2.30pm Course closed 2.30pm - 5.00pm 3rd Nine (GHAFAR) Open Booking procedure All bookings must be made in person or by fax.+606 2332007. Only 3 or 4 ball will be allowed. Cancellation Procedure Cancellations must be made at least 12 hours before tee-off time, failing which a fee of RM10 will be charged for each golfer. During weekend, 2 balls not allow on the main course. EACH MEMBER IS ONLY ALLOWED TO BOOK ONE TEE-OFF TIME PER DAY. Green Fee : Weekdays Member’s guest Visitors Insurance
Membership which was falling, has been reversed,” said Abas, who is married with two kids. “We are in the midst of changing the greens to Bermuda grass and all the work will be completed long before the Malaysia Games. We will host the golf competition here and it is only fitting we set a challenging course for our up and coming golfers.” He added the club members have supported his changes and upgrading
work 100 per cent with some even chipping in with ideas on how to best improve one of Melaka’s oldest golf courses. “The response has been tremendous and I’m delighted to say everyone is working towards making AKCC one of the best in Malaysia. A few older members remember the time when the Malaysian Open was held here and some are secretly hoping it will return here in the near future,” said Abas.
9 hole RM33.60 RM42.00 RM3.00
18 hole RM52.50 RM75.50 RM3.00
Weekends 9 hole 18 hole Member’s guest RM42.00 RM84.00 Visitors RM52.50 RM105.00 Insurance RM3.00 RM3.00 INDIVIDUAL Course 27 Holes - Private Membership (Transferable) Entrance Fee Membership Open Malaysia Individual - RM30,000 Foreigner Individual - RM50,000 CORPORATE Course
27 Holes - Private Membership (Transferable)
Entrance Fee Malaysia Corporate Foreigner Corporate
Membership Open - RM30,000 (per nominee) - RM50,000 (per nominee)
PER NOMINEE Fees Green Fees (Weekdays) *RM78.75 - 18 holes Green Fees (Weekdays) *RM42.00 - 9 holes Green Fees (Weekend/ Public Holidays) -18holes *RM105.00 Green Fees (Weekend/ Public Holidays) -9holes *RM52.50 Buggy Fee (members) 18 holes *RM47.00 9holes *RM24.00 Buggy Fee (guests) 18 holes *RM54.00 9holes *RM27.00 *(Including 5% Govt. Tax) Pan-West Proshop Rental of Shoe RM10.00 Rental of Golf Set RM30.00 Rental of Trolley RM5.00 Other Facilities Swimming Pool Tennis Courts Squash Courts Driving Range Other Information Visitors must produce valid USGA handicap cards from their respective clubs and requested to be observe the local club rules. Further, we do not accept walk in golfers especially in big groups unless prior arrangement is made with the clubs. TERM MEMBERSHIP Term Membership Foreigners - 2 years Malaysian - 5 years Entrance Fee Foreigners - RM3,000 Malaysian - RM2,000 Subscription Monthly RM73.50 Renewable after 2 years RM2,000 per year (foreigners) RM500 per year (malaysian) Facilities All facilities will be extended and you can also enjoy the reciprocal rights of playing at 36 clubs affiliated to AKCC. No restriction of play. Signing Faciliies This will be extended to you on payment of RM1,000 (refundable deposit) and a letter of undertaking from your company. AKCC Facilities Golf Course - 27 holes Swimming Pool Billiards/Pool Tables Banquet Facilities for 200paxs Gymnasium Tennis Court Practice Range Squash Court
24
MS3.feature
month of january 2010
The club is in the Malaysia Book of Records for hosting the ‘Longest Running Midnight Golf Championship’ which began in 1994 with the creation of the “Merdeka Midnight Golf Challenge”.
Gary has big dreams for kgsaas
MANY know Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (KGSAAS) as the “Home of Night Golfing”. The tagline is warranted as it was the first, and still is, the only club in the world where each hole is lit up for night play. The club is in the Malaysia Book of Records for hosting the ‘Longest Running Midnight Golf Championship’ which began in 1994 with the creation of the “Merdeka Midnight Golf Challenge”. The 27-hole course, designed by five-time British Open champion Peter Thomson, is in fact the brainchild of the former Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, after whom the club is named, who foresaw the need for an international championship course within the city. KGSAAS was the first club in Malaysia designed by Thomson and his trademark pot bunkers, rolling fairways and medium-to-large elevated greens are all present on the 27 holes which have been segregated into the President’s Nine, Sultan’s Nine and Alam Shah Nine. The first nine holes were opened for play in September 1991, while the second nine was opened in January 1992. The third nine was opened in November 1992. A lot has happened since its grand
ALAM SHAH NINE HOLE 6 PAR 4 371m
A downhill dog-leg around a major water body. This hole is a good test for all. The long hitter will be forced to use a four to five wood. Approach shot is slightly uphill over a deep ravine.
ALAM SHAH NINE HOLE 9 PAR 4 384m This hole is probably the most difficult of the last nine. After a straightforward tee shot skirting two strategically located bunkers, the fairway ascends the slope to the clubhouse. The second shot calls for a formidable challenge of your combination of power and skill of the game. To arrive at this green in two shots is a fine accomplishment.
SULTAN NINE HOLE 2 PAR 5 501m
A long demanding par 5 hole which should test even the best player. The fairway “pinches” in three places before the green is reached. The green is unusually long and narrow offering plenty of adventure for all players to be creative by attempting a variety of shots.
“As for now, I’m focusing on the Sukma Golf Challenge 2010, which promises to be a grand tournament.”
SULTAN NINE HOLE 8 PAR 4 428m
A formidable test for all golfers. Long hitters must avoid bunker on the right while hookers will be penalised by mounds and the road. The green is well protected on the left, while a lake on the right will gobble up the wayward second shot.
opening and now, executive director Gary Ng, has bigger plans as he sets his sighs on making KGSAAS a championship worthy venue. “Our dream is to host the Malaysian Open in the next couple of years. We hosted the Volvo Masters of Malaysia several years ago but since then, we have not held any ‘major’ championship,” said Gary, who has been with KGSAAS since the beginning. “Before that, we will bid for the Selangor Masters as it is also an important event. We are upgrading the facilities in the club and I dare say, we will soon be among the best in the country soon. “Hosting the Selangor Masters will be a huge honour for KGSAAS, if we get it. The Selangor Masters has grown into a major attraction with many top players competing and I would like KGSAAS to experience it. It will also be a stepping stone towards hosting the Malaysian Open.” Gary’s love affair with KGSAAS started even before the club opened its doors in 1991. He began as a purchasing director before slowly moving up the management ladder, and despite undergoing a bypass 30 months ago, is now determined to turn KGSAAS into
SULTAN NINE HOLE 9 PAR 4 368m
A fine finishing hole of substantial length from the championship tees and one which demands plenty of accuracy with the tee shot and the approach shot played to a green located above the player. The final hole on any course should be the climax of the round. And this is it. Pars will be well earned.
PRESIDENT NINE HOLE 3 PAR 4 363m
A short but testing dog-leg right with a blind green. OB markers to the left and huge mounds demand long hitters to keep their drives straight. The big hitters will be rewarded for they will get a good glimpse of the green which is located in a valley.
25
MS3.feature
month of january 2010
“The club came about in 1987 when the then sultan had an idea to have a fully fledged golf club in Shah Alam, as there was only one nine-hole course in Klang at the time.” – Gary Ng
How to get there
From KLIA airport: • 40 minutes drives from Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA) • 50 minutes drive from Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) • Travelling by limousine from KLIA to hotel will cost RM150 • Travel by Malaysia’s Express Rail Link (ERL). The fare is RM35 per person and it takes 28 minutes to reach Kuala Lumpur Sentral Train Station which is in Kuala Lumpur city. From Kuala Lumpur City Centre: • Travellers from KL Sentral Train Station can easily take a cab to KGSAAS and the fare is about RM40 • Travellers from KL Sentral Train Station can also take the Putra LRT to Central Market Station and take a RAPID KL bus no. U608 or T608 on the bus signage. The fare for Putra LRT is RM1.20 and fare for bus is RM2.00 per person. The bus will stop next to Concorde Hotel. From the hotel you may proceed to KGSAAS by taxi.
the best golf club in Malaysia. “The club came about in 1987 when the then sultan had an idea to have a fully fledged golf club in Shah Alam, as there was only one nine-hole course in Klang at the time,” recalled Gary. “With his consent, the board scouted for a suitable site and we started work here in 1989 and opened our first nine holes in 1991 and as an innovation, we also lit up all the holes, enabling night play. “We have had our ups and downs in the past but the future is certainly bright now. The board is 100 per cent behind turning KGSAAS into a championship worthy venue and we have already started upgrading the facilities.” The married father of four admitted he does not play as much as he used to before his bypass and as s a result his handicap has fallen to 20. “I slowed down after my by pass and was semi-retired until the board members called me up and asked me to return as executive director. Like me, all of them are passionate about KGSAAS and they too want to turn KGSAAS into a championship hosting club. “I’m more of a social golfer and only play when my “kaki” are around. As I said earlier, my main goal is to upgrade KGSAAS. That is taking up a lot of my time but I don’t mind,” said Gary, who grew up in Klang. “As for now, I’m focusing on the Sukma XIII Melaka 2010 Golf Challenge which promises to be a grand tournament.” “Our former senior manager, Nor Afendi Mohd Razlan, first came to me last year with the idea of creating the biggest amateur golf tournament in Malaysia. It sounded impressive and KGSAAS is the first club to sign for the event. The tournament will tee off in January and I, believe it will be a huge success.”
MEMBERSHIP Description Individual membership
Corporate membership (1 nominee)
Corporate membership (2 nominees)
Membership fee
RM70,000
RM70,000
RM110,000
Current promotion fees
RM35,000
RM35,000
RM70,000
Privileges extended to member/nominee & 1 lawful spouse and children below 18
Yes
Yes
Yes
Prepayment account
RM1,000
RM1,000
RM2,000
Monthly subscription (including 5% government tax)
RM132.30
RM132.30
RM264.60
Term of membership
Leasehold 99 years
Leasehold 99 years
Leasehold 99 years
Downpayment RM5,000 RM5,000 RM10,000 Balance Payment Interest free Interest free Interest free (post dated cheque easy payment easy payment easy payment or credit card) scheme available scheme available scheme available Transferability
Yes
Transfer fee 10% of the prevailing membership fee
3,500 7,000 (with effect from 1st Jan 2008)
Yes
Yes 11,000
Change of nominee fee
N/A
RM2,000
RM4,000
Facilities
ALL
ALL
ALL
Description Corporate Annual Term membership Membership (3 nominees) Individual/ Corporate
Social Membership Individual/ Corporate
Membership fee
RM12,000
RM140,000
RM8,800
Current promotion fees RM105,000 RM6,000
RM8,000 (free one year subscription fee worth RM1,008)
Privileges extended to member/nominee & 1 lawful spouse and children below 18
Yes
Yes
Yes
Prepayment account Monthly subscription (including 5% government tax)
RM3,000
RM1,000
RM1,000
RM396.90
RM132.30
RM84.00
Term of membership
Leasehold 12 months 99 years
Downpayment RM15,000 RM6,000 Balance Payment Interest free (post dated cheque easy payment or credit card) scheme available N/A Transferability Transfer fee 10% of the prevailing membership fee
Leasehold 99 years RM8,000 N/A
Yes
N/A
Yes
14,000
N/A
3,000
Change of nominee fee RM6,000 RM1,500
RM2,000 (if registered under company)
Facilities
Sports and F&B
ALL
ALL
MS3.jokes
month of January 2010
27
The best Tiger Woods jokes from the web Common golf phrases which may sound dirty to Tiger Woods 1. Nuts....my shaft is bent. 2. After 18 holes I can barely walk 3. You really whacked the hell out of that sucker. 4. Look at the size of his putter. 5. Mind if I join your threesome? 6. Stand with your back turned and drop it. 7. Keep your head down and spread your legs a little more 8. My hands are so sweaty I can’t get a good grip 9. Nice stroke, but your follow through has a lot to be desired. 10. Hold up.....I need to wash my balls first. *** Now there’s going to be a movie made about Tiger Woods. It’s going to be called, “Crouching Tiger, Crunching Escalade.” *** Tiger Woods is having some kind of trouble. I used to think golf was boring. *** There’s been a media firestorm. President Obama is sending troops to Afghanistan, but he should be sending them to Tiger Woods’ house. *** Tiger Woods is so rich that he owns lots of expensive cars. Now he has a hole in one. *** What’s the difference between a car and a golf ball? Tiger can drive a ball 400 yards. *** Tiger admitted this crash was the closest shave he’s ever had. So Gillette has dropped his contract. *** The only person who can beat Tiger Woods with a golf club is his wife. *** Q: What course gives Tiger the most trouble? A: Intercourse.
with President Obama? Bill Clinton would have been the better choice!!! *** It’s not looking good for Tiger Woods. According to a poll today, 88 percent of women have an unfavorable opinion of him. The other 12 percent are cocktail waitresses. ***
Top Ten Text Messages Sent By Tiger Woods
You usually find a tree in the Woods, Tiger’s wife found a Woods in a tree. *** Nike wants to drop their endorsement, apparently Tiger’s balls go everywhere. *** Difference between playing golf and driving a car? In golf, Tiger can stay out of the trees. *** Jim Furyk made two clutch putts to win the Tiger Woods Chevron World Challenge. As the winner of Tiger’s tournament the golfer gets $1 million and three phone numbers. *** One of Tiger’s girlfriends says that on a scale to ten, Tiger is actually a 12. But I thought to myself, well, now wait a minute. That’s two over par! *** CBS announced they’re canceling “As the World Turns.” Don’t worry though, if you’re addicted to the twisted plots,
the intrigue, the illicit sex, you can still watch golf. *** So many cocktail waitresses, no wonder when I go to a bar, I can never get a drink. They’re all with Tiger Woods. *** People are speculating that Tiger Woods and his wife are thinking of moving to Sweden. Because if there’s one place to get away from hot blondes, it’s Sweden. *** The Nobel Peace prize has gone to President Obama’s head ... now claims he can bring peace to Tiger Woods’ house. *** In a speech in Washington, President Obama said, “We are all in a very different place than we were in a year ago.” And Tiger Woods said, “Yeah, you could say that . . .” *** Tiger Woods shared a magazine cover
10. I’m sorry, which mistress is this again? 9. I was dreaming about you when I was passed out in the street 8. RU a cop? 7. You’re breaking up with me for Lee Trevino?! 6. Sorry about last night ? I had the yips 5. Did I leave a green jacket at your place? 4. My wife has the car. I’ll have to pick you up in the golf cart 3. Why aren’t the LPGA girls interested? 2. Hey Tiger ? it’s Tiger ? wanna have sex tonight? 1. Thanks for changing your grip *** Sources say Tiger has confessed all of his affairs to his wife who has agreed to stay with him if he takes some time off from golf. Tiger said, “That’s OK, golf was starting to cut into my time with the ladies.” *** A new study says that 86 percent of kids who regularly watch TV can recognise Tiger Woods. Which makes sense, because he may be their dad. *** There’s good news about the climate: Scientists have detected a chill over Tiger Woods’ house. *** It’s raining today in L.A. People were smashing into trees without even being chased by their wives with golf clubs.
Pop star denies affair with Woods Pop star Jessica Simpson has been forced to deny an affair between her and golfer Tiger Woods after reports surfaced in the US Ninemsn.com.au said Simpson told her Twitter followers the front page story linking her and Woods together was “a lie!” “Can’t believe that I’m on the cover of Star magazine with Tiger Woods, what a JOKE!,” Simpson tweeted. “The ‘Shocking Inside Story’ is (insert drumroll) A LIE!” Tabloid magazine Star claims when 33-year-old Woods met Simpson during the AT&T Pro-Am golf event last July, where she sang the national anthem and the pair became close and swapped phone numbers and email
addresses. Simpson, 29, was at the event in Maryland with her then-boyfriend, American football star Tony Romo. A source told the U.S. magazine Star: “Tiger liked what he saw and let her know it.” Woods was photographed with his arm around Simpson’s waist. Simpson and 29-year-old Romo split up just eight days later. Simpson’s management declined to comment on the story but her tweet effectively poured water on the story. Simpson, has since been linked to Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan. A married British television presenter was the first celebrity to be linked to be Woods but her name has been kept out of the press.
Meanwhile, reports from the US claimed Woods’ suffering wife Elin Nordegren will start divorce proceedings in the new year. A source close to Nordegren said she firm on her decision and there’s nothing to think about. She was recently spotted without her wedding ring sparking off rumours that she was done with the billionaire golfer. Nordegren, mother of Tiger’s children – two-year-old daughter Sam and 10-month-old son Charlie – had met celebrity lawyer Sorrell Trope to renegotiate her prenuptial agreement with Woods. There is a buzz that Nordegren would seek half his fortune and this could be the largest divorce settlement in sports history.
Some of Tiger’s rumoured women 1. Rachel Uchitel. The club hostess was the first of the women to be linked to Woods after the National Enquirer reported that she travelled to Australia to be with Woods during a golf tournament there. 2. Jamie Grubbs. The 24year-old reality show contestant and cocktail waitress claims she carried on a 31-month-long affair with Woods until his crash last month. She offered a Woods voicemail to prove it. 3. Kalika Moquin. The 27-year-old club manager from Las Vegas is reported to have had a brief sexual relationship with Woods. 4. Cori Rist. The 31-year-old swimsuit model reportedly met Woods at a Manhattan club last year before they began a sexual relationship that led to Woods flying her out to various secret locations for hook-ups, and her introducing the golfer to her 7-year-old son. 5. Jamie Jungers. The 26-year-old, who sold her story to a British newspaper, is a former employee of Trashy Girls Lingerie. She said she met Woods in Las Vegas. 6. Mindy Lawton. The 33-year-old pancake house waitress from Orlando claims she was dumped by Woods in 2007. According to the Post, it was her affair with Woods that was caught on camera by the National Enquirer, when he was snapped dropping her off at her trailer park. The threatening news later led to a Woods Men’s Fitness cover in exchange for the magazine’s silence about the alleged affair, the New York Post reports. 7. Holly Sampson. The 36-year-old from Los Angeles is a former porn star, who has starred in such films as “OMG, Stop Tickling Me” and “Flying Solo 2.”
Nordegren who had already moved with her kids from Woods’ Orlando mansion was planning to take her children to Sweden for Christmas without Woods.
8. Joslyn James. The star of many, many porn videos was named on the sports blog Deadspin.com as a Tiger regular, but did not respond to the site’s call for comment.
26
MS3.COMMENT
month of january 2010
How
the scandal unfolded Nov 25: The National Enquirer publishes a story alleging Tiger Woods was having an affair with New York nightclub hostess Rachel Uchitel and that the pair were recently together in Australia where Woods competed in the Australian Masters. Uchitel later denies the report. Nov 27: Tiger Woods crashes his Cadillac Escalade into a fire hydrant and a neighbour’s tree at 2:25 a.m. just metres away from his Florida mansion. His wife, Elin Nordegren, uses a golf club to smash one of the SUV’s back windows, later telling police she was trying to get her unconscious husband out of the vehicle. Woods is briefly hospitalised. Nov 27: Police try to interview Woods about the crash. However, Nordegren asks them to return the next day because her husband is sleeping. Nov 28: Police again plan to interview Woods, but his agent tells them the golfer and his wifeare unavailable until the following day. Nov 29: An hour after Woods’s lawyer turns police away from the golfer’s home, Woods releases a statement on his website, taking blame for an “embarrassing” crash, which left him with cuts and bruises. “This situation is my fault, and it’s obviously embarrassing to my family and me,” he says. “I’m human and I’m not perfect. I will certainly make sure this doesn’t happen again.” The statement asks that it remain “a private matter”. The Florida Highway Patrol releases a 911 call made by Woods’ neighbour after the crash. Nov 30: Citing his injuries, Woods withdraws from his annual golf tournament, the Chevron World Challenge. “I am certain it will be an outstanding event and I’m very sorry that I can’t be there,” he says in a statement on his website. He says he will not compete again until next year. Dec 1: The Florida Highway Patrol announces that Woods faces a US$164 fine for careless driving and four demerit points against his driver’s licence. He will not face criminal charges. A lawyer for Linda Adams, the neighbour who called 911 after Woods’ crash, says Woods did not appear to be under the influence and showed no signs of having been in a fight in the minutes after the crash. “None of his injuries looked like he was beat up by his wife,” said attorney Bill Sharpe. Dec 2: Us Weekly magazine publishes a cover story saying a Los Angeles cocktail waitress claims she had a 31-month long affair with Woods. The woman, Jaimee Grubbs, says she has proof in 300 text messages and claims she first met Woods the week after the 2007 Masters, two months before Nordegren gave birth to their first child. The magazine also releases what it says is a voice mail, which was provided by Grubbs, that Woods left on her phone on Nov. 24 asking her to remove her name from her phone message. Three hours later, Woods acknowledges unspecified “transgressions” that he regrets “with all of my heart” in a statement on his website. “I have not been true to my values and the behaviour my family deserves. I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect. I am dealing with my behaviour and personal failings behind closed doors with my family. Those feelings should be shared by us alone.” Dec 3: Citing “unforeseen circumstances”, high-profile attorney Gloria Allred, who is representing Uchitel, calls off a news conference about an hour before it is set to begin. Dec 7: A report from a police officer who responded to Woods’ accident is released. The report says Woods was initially unresponsive, lying on the road covered in a blanket and resting his head on a pillow. Two golf clubs were on the ground and there was US$235 in the vehicle. Dec. 8: After receiving a 911 call from Woods’ home at 2:35am, Nordegren’s mother, Barbro Holmberg, is transported to hospital suffering from stomach pain. Holmberg, a former Swedish cabinet minister, is county governor of Gävleborg in central-east Sweden. Dec 8: Playgirl magazine claims to have naked pictures of Tiger Woods but they are still trying to authenticate the pictures. Dec 11: Tiger Woods announces he is taking an indefinite break from golf to work on his marriage.
Tiger trapped in his own spin
Mr Perfect has been exposed as a lie and he has to deal with the consequences. Woods made his bed, now he has to lie in it – hopefully without another mistress by his side.
With so many alleged mistresses, Tiger Woods must be superhuman to have won 14 Majors. When would he have had the time to practice his golf swing? Or maybe that’s his secret for having so many “birdies” on the course. Whatever his failings as a husband and father, there is no denying Tiger is still a great golf player. This point was rammed home (perhaps, not the best choice of words under the present circumstances), when Woods was named AP’s ‘Athlete Of The Decade’. Even after the shocking sex scandal (see accompanying story on how it all began) that tarnished Woods, it was tough to ignore what he achieved on the golf course. He won 64 times around the world, including 12 Majors, to add to the two he won in the 1990s, and hoisted a trophy on every continent golf is played. He lost only one time with the lead going into the final round. His 56 PGA Tour victories in one incomparable decade were more than anyone.. Woods received 56 of the 142 votes cast by AP member editors. Lance Armstrong, a cancer survivor who won the Tour de France six times this decade, finished second with 33 votes. He was followed by Roger Federer, who won more Grand Slam singles titles than any other man, with 25 votes. But now, instead of saluting one of the golf’s greats, many are discussing Woods’ lurid sex life as more and more women come forward to claim they brought out the Tiger in Woods and this inevitably leads to headlines such as ‘Tiger is a Lion Cheetah” Former NBA player John Salley told
sports columnist Jason Whitlock: “You play golf to drink with your boys, smoke cigars and talk about (sex). And now we’re surprised that a golfer was having sex. We think Tiger is the only one? Why are we treating Tiger like he’s elected to public office? He plays golf, man.” Salley is missing the point. Yes, Woods does just play golf, but he is means much more to the game and part of the reason why he is getting a lot of unwanted attention is simply due to his holier than thou image. The fact that he built his whole career by presenting himself as the perfect gentleman, filial son, loving husband and doting dad, an image which saw him become sports’ first billionaire, sticks in the throat of many rivals. For some, it is pay back time for all the humbling defeats after yet another improbable Tiger comeback. Can you imagine four-times married John Daly getting the same bad publicity as Woods? Granted Daly is not the world’s No. 1 golfer but his life has had more bogeys than birdies and even trouble with the law thrown in for good measure. But because of all his past troubles, if the same stories were of Daly, it would probably warrant a mention or two before the public lose interest. Many other sports stars have had their fair share of sex scandals – think Kobe Bryan, George Best and Ervin ‘Magic’ Johnson – but none were ever portrayed to be as squeaky clean as Woods. And that, unfortunately for the American, is why he is being hounded by the media. Mr Perfect has been exposed as a lie and he has to deal with the consequences. Woods made his bed, now he has to lie in it – hopefully without another mistress by his side.
MS3.news
month of january 2010
29
“I think that hopefully, life will be a lot better. But I still have a lot of work to do. I still have a lot to improve. It just feels so great right now.” – Michelle Wee
Defending champion: Kang came out tops in this year’s Maybank Malaysian Open
The road to Rio begins at Maybank Malaysian Open 2010
Maiden win for Michelle Pin-up Michelle Wie finally scored the first win of her career when she triumphed in the Lorena Ochoa Invitational, beating fellow American Paula Creamer by two strokes when she shot a final round 3-under 69. Wie finished a 13-under 275 after starting the day at the Guadalajara Country Club tied for the lead with Kerr at 10 under. Morgan Pressel (67), Jiyai Shin (71) and Cristie Kerr (72) were three back. The win was a monkey off Wie’s back as the glamour golf of world golf finally fulfilled a promised that first shone when she was only 10. Wie, 20, first qualified for a USGA event at age 10 and played an LPGA event when she was 12. She joined the LPGA this season and has begun to show the sizzling game that has made her arguably the biggest attraction in women’s golf. “For sure, it’s definitely off my back,” said Wie, and in her third year at Stanford.
“I think that hopefully, life will be a lot better. But I still have a lot of work to do. I still have a lot to improve. It just feels so great right now.” Wie had a few shaky moments but she was steadier down the stretch as her rivals faltered. She had chances to pull away on the front nine, but couldn’t quite do it and finished with a 2-under 34 - 12 under for the tournament. She went to 13 under with a birdie on 11, giving her a one-shot lead over Creamer and Kerr. But she bogeyed the next hole when her escape shot from under a cluster of trees squarely hit a tree trunk, the ball rebounding into the fairway behind her. But she made par through 17. On 18 she finished it off in style, hitting a greenside bunker shot to 6 inches and then tapped in for a birdie and a two-stroke victory. Wie began competing against men on smaller circuits when she was 13.
She was criticized at the time for not playing against her own age group, her own gender and for turning pro in 2005 before finishing high school. She ignored the criticism and, at 16, she was poised to become the first woman to qualify for the men’s U.S. Open before her putter failed her. Shortly after that she began to lose confidence and the biggest attraction in women’s golf went into a long, painful slump that was made worst by a wrist injury that ruined her 2007 season. She has slowly worked her way back, earning her LPGA card for this season, gaining credibility with players and emerging as a star on this year’s Solheim Cup, going undefeated in four matches. When she is on her game, it sizzles with soaring drives and better and better touch on the greens. Wie has finished second twice this season, and has two other third-place finishes on the LPGA Tour.
Organisers of the Maybank Malaysian Open announced that the 49th edition of the event will return from March 4-7, 2010. The 2010 edition will also be a platform to kick-start a six-year integrated programme to nurture domestic world-class talent in preparation for the golf event which makes its return to the XXXI Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. The Maybank Malaysian Open is the most prestigious golf event in the country and a leading national open competition in the region. Cosanctioned by the Asian Tour and The European Tour and part of the latter’s 2010 Race to Dubai, the Maybank Malaysian Open will be held at the newlyrenovated Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club and will continue to host the best players from Malaysia and the world. ”The Open has gained tremendous respect among the great names of the golfing world, who have played in previous events. I recall players who participated in our Open and had gone on to win the Majors like the US Open, The Open, US Masters and the US PGA Championship. This time again, we are confident the Maybank Malaysian Open will continue to draw the world’s best and be another opportunity for Malaysia to showcase its golfing facilities and experience in hosting world-class tournaments,” said Tan Sri Dato’ Megat Zaharuddin, Chairman of Maybank. M.A Halim Ahmad, Director of GlobalOne said: “With The European Tour and Asian Tour together with Maybank in this partnership with us, spectators can expect an exciting playing field and a fun-filled week for the entire family. We have pledged to grow the game of golf and given the storied history of the tournament, we are confident it will only get better with talented local golfers having the opportunity to participate in the Olympics from 2016 and, through the Maybank Malaysian Open, gain valuable world-class experience en route to this target!” MGA President Datuk Robin Loh said: “The Maybank Malaysian Open has always been vital in exposing promising local talent to some of the biggest names in the world and giving them the opportunity to hone their skills there. This is an event to which even overseas golfers look forward and aspire to, so we are excited to once again be involved in 2010 as an event guardian.” The prestigious event, won by American Anthony Kang in 2009, will boast of a 156-strong line-up, featuring leading players from Malaysia and those from the Asian Tour and The European Tour. Winnings from the Maybank Malaysian Open 2010 will go towards the Asian Tour Order of Merit, and will also add to the player’s 2010 Race to Dubai Ranking, granting them a chance to qualify for the seasonending Dubai World Championship. Prize purse for the 2010 edition will be US$2 million and other details such as player line-up and fringe activities will be announced closer to the tournament.
30
MS3.news
month of january 2010
“Our forecast over the next three to five years will see the Asian Tour offering over 30 to 35 tournaments with excess of US$45 million in prize money which will reinforce our position as the third largest Tour in the world. – Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han
A memorable year for Asian Tour The Asian Tour celebrated momentous milestones at home and abroad in 2009 which will change the landscape of professional golf in the years to come as Asian stars sparkled throughout an enthralling season and produced historic achievements. Pride of place goes to Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee, who became the first man to win three Order of Merit crowns, and Korean Yang Yong-eun, the first Asian to win a Major with his memorable victory over Tiger Woods at the PGA Championship. Big-hitting Thai Chapchai Nirat also played his way into golf annals when he shot a stunning worldrecord 32-under-par 256 aggregate at the SAIL Open in India, which was the lowest 72-hole winning score amongst the six major international Tours. There were many other notable landmarks which included a first co-sanctioned tournament with the European Tour on European soil, and the first staging of a World Golf Championships in the region. “As with all businesses, it has been a challenging season for the Asian Tour in respect to the global financial crisis and economic slowdown. However, we launched three new tournaments in Thailand while a number of other tournaments also enjoyed growth in their prize money allocation,” said Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han. “The achievements of Yang, Thongchai and Chapchai were the main highlights for the Asian Tour and it only serves to reinforce the giant strides that our players have made over the years. Yang’s historic triumph was a great moment for the Asian Tour. He featured on the Asian Tour for several seasons during the early 2000s and ultimately proved that one of our guys could triumph over the best in the world and win on a Major stage. His achievement has broken down all barriers and this will ensure only more Major success for Asian players in the years to come.” Han added that Thongchai’s remarkable third Merit crown in a
Pictures by World Sports Group
STRONG YEAR: Hla Han is delighted with the way the Asian Tour has grown in 2009
“The achievements of Yang, Thongchai and Chapchai were the main highlights for the Asian Tour and it only serves to reinforce the giant strides that our players have made over the years. Yang’s historic triumph was a great moment for the Asian Tour.”
– Kyi Hla Han
season was another great example of how the Asian Tour has built worthy champions over the years. The Asian Tour also forged a formal alliance
with the European Tour to fortify the existing co-sanction programme. This partnership, which led to the formation of EurAsia Golf Ltd, is es-
sentially aimed at establishing new tournaments, increasing prize money and playing opportunities for players in this growing region.
Rai can become a top player “It feels good and satisfying to know that I played so well. Overall it has been a great tournament for me. Playing with K.J. Choi and the amount that I learnt from him is unbelievable.
– Himmat Rai
Korean star K.J. Choi has tipped India’s young gun Himmat Rai to establish himself as one of Asia’s leading players. The 22-year-old Rai pushed Choi, a seven-time winner on the US PGA Tour, all the way at the Iskandar Johor Open in Malaysia before settling for share of third place. “Himmat is a very good player. He is a long hitter and has a lot of control. The only thing that I would point out is that he has the tendency to hit it too fast but overall he has a good game,” said Choi. “I told him that he definitely has to come over to the US PGA Tour because
he has the game to excel. The only thing that would set him apart is the mental game. As long as he can make his mental game stronger and work on some of his weakness like the tempo of his swing, I think he definitely can compete with the guys in the US.” Rai showed poise beyond his years to give himself a chance of winning his first Asian Tour title. He led into the third and final round in Johor but Choi overtook him with a fantastic closing round of 64. “It feels good and satisfying to know that I played so well. Overall it has been
a great tournament for me. Playing with K.J. Choi and the amount that I learnt from him is unbelievable. “His concentration is very good and he hit some really great shots. I’m beginning to feel much more confident about my game. I’m just looking forward to playing more on the Asian Tour and playing my heart out,” said Rai. ONE FOR THE FUTURE: India’s young gun Himmat Rai has the potential to go far
The Asian Tour also established a partnership with IMG Media which acts as its global sales agent and the effects have been immediate with new agreements in place with major broadcasters such as Sky Sports in Britain, Viasat in Scandinavia and Fox Sports in Australia. Han believes the arrival of Asia’s first World Golf Championships event where the HSBC Champions in Shanghai was elevated in its stature was a significant development. “It showed that Asia has truly arrived as a powerhouse in professional golf and it will raise our profile even greater. Everybody knows that the next frontier for golf’s development is in Asia and we are focussed on our mission to grow the game and providing our players with every opportunity to showcase their talents,” said Han. “Our forecast over the next three to five years will see the Asian Tour offering over 30 to 35 tournaments with excess of US$45 million in prize money which will reinforce our position as the third largest Tour in the world. “Our players have consistently performed at home and abroad over the years and we anticipate they will continue to excel next season. It is our belief that our players can continue to make their presence felt in Major championships and World Golf Championships as we now have a big pool of talented players who are capable of succeeding. With the economic climate looking positive, we continue to receive strong feedback from sponsors. They are looking at sponsoring new events and current sponsors are looking at increasing their prize money. “The Asian Tour has had the right structure and foundation in place over the past five to six years and we are moving forward with our players’ full support and backing. As we are structured within the same framework as the US PGA Tour and European Tour, we are very positive of our future.”
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month of january 2010
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Victories at the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open and Ballantine’s Championship in Korea took his career tally to 12 titles, the most wins by a player in Asia, and saw Thongchai earn a career-high US$981,931 in 10 tournaments.
Thongchai voted Asian Tour player of the year Pictures by World Sports Group
Thai star Thongchai Jaidee has been voted by his peers as the 2009 Asian Tour Players’ Player of the Year, capping a truly memorable season which set him apart from his rivals. Through his mastery on the golf course, Thongchai won twice during the year, finished top-10 on three other occasions and did not miss a single cut - his lowest finish was tied 30th en route to an unprecedented third Order of Merit crown. Victories at the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open and Ballantine’s Championship in Korea took his career tally to 12 titles, the most wins by a player in Asia, and saw him earn a career-high US$981,931 in 10 tournaments. The popular Thai earned further accolades by sweeping the Lowest Stroke Average category with 69.06. It was yet another wonderful reflection of his continued rise in the game as his stroke average was 69.59 and 69.58 when he won the 2001 and 2004 Merit titles respectively. Unheralded C. Muniyappa of India, whose classic rags to riches tale inspired many when he won the Hero Honda Indian Open, took home a deserving Rookie of the Year title. The 32-year-old wrapped up his season in 10th place on the Order of Merit with US$223,269 through one win and three other top-25s. Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “Thongchai has raised the benchmark higher on the Asian Tour through his terrific performances in 2009. He is a great ambassador of the game for the Asian Tour and will no doubt inspire many young players to achieve success. “We are also extremely proud of the rise of Muniyappa, whose humble background will serve as an inspiration to many players in India and across Asia to shoot for the stars.” Big-hitting Australian Scott Hend earned bragging rights when he
finished atop the Driving Distance category with an average of 318 yards while Korea’s Lee Sung hit the most fairways throughout the season with a 75% fairway hit rate. Thai veteran Thaworn Wiratchant, who won his 11th Asian Tour title at the Macau Open, claimed the Birdie Leader award after snaring a total of 255 birdies throughout the 2009 season. South Africa’s Jbe Kruger hit the most Greens in Regulation (GIR) with a strike rate of 79.98% to top the category while Thammanoon Srirot of Thailand took the Lowest Putting Average award with 1.691 putts per GIR. The Sentosa Golf Club, venue of this year’s Barclays Singapore Open, was voted by the players as the Host Venue of the Year for the fourth successive year, reinforcing its position as a premier club in Asia. Along with the other stat category winners, Thongchai will be honoured at the Asian Tour Awards Gala in Malaysia in March.
BEST OF THE BEST: Thongchai with his Asia Tour Order of Merit trophy which he won for a record third time
2009 Roll of Honour Order of Merit: Thongchai Jaidee (Tha) Players’ Player of the Year: Thongchai Jaidee (Tha) Rookie of the Year: C. Muniyappa (Ind) Host Venue of the Year: Sentosa Golf Club, Singapore Lowest Stroke Average: Thongchai Jaidee (Tha) Driving Distance: Scott Hend (Aus) Fairways in Regulation: Lee Sung (Kor) Greens in Regulation: Jbe Kruger (Rsa) Lowest Putting Average: Thammanoon Srirot (Tha) Birdie Leader: Thaworn Wiratchant
Hattrick for Westwood Lee Westwood has won his third European Tour Golfer of the Year award. The 36-year-old just missed out on the Open at Turnberry when he bogeyed the 18th on the Sunday, but bounced back to regain the European No1 spot for the first time since 2000. Trailing Rory McIlroy going into the final week of the season, Westwood played superbly to clinch a six-stroke victory at the Dubai World Championship for a double jackpot worth £1.65m. With his third tour victory the Worksop-born golfer joins Seve Ballesteros, Ernie Els and Sir Nick Faldo on one behind Colin Montgomerie, who is the only player to have won the
award on four occasions. Westwood, who has climbed all the way back to the world No4 spot after dramatically falling out of the top 250 in 2002, said: “It is a fantastic honour and caps a wonderful season for me and all those who have helped me get to this position. This probably means more to me in recognising how I have fought my way back to the top. “To drop completely into obscurity and come back means a lot. It says a lot about my mental strength and about the team around me, all the hard work and dedication they have put in and the belief they have shown in me.” Since the beginning of July, Westwood has played 14 events and had 12
top-10 finishes. That includes wins in Portugal as well as Dubai and third places at both the Open and US PGA. The European Tour chief executive, George O’Grady, said: “Lee has demonstrated a tremendous level of consistency and is also an outstanding ambassador for the European Tour on the global stage.” A panel comprising members of the Association of Golf Writers and commentators from television and radio chose Westwood in a year which also saw Argentina’s Angel Cabrera win his second major at the Masters and the 20-year-old McIlroy establish himself among the elite group of players.
Suwan to host 2010 curtain raiser The Asian Tour International will have the honour of being the curtain-raiser of the 2010 Asian Tour Schedule when the third edition returns from February 4-7, 2010. The US$300,000 full field Asian Tour tournament will be played at the highly rated Suwan Country Club where the race to win the coveted 2010 Order of Merit will begin in earnest. It promises to be an exciting start to the new Asian Tour season which will include a minimum of 28 tournaments with nearly US$40 million on offer to the region’s top stars over the next 12 months. Players heading to Bangkok for the Asian Tour International will also be treated to a new challenge at Suwan Country Club as the management has put in place new greens which were built immediately after the 2009 edition. It is said that the new greens are now one of the best in Bangkok. Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han reckons the Asian Tour International will mark an exciting start to 2010 where a slew of Asian Tour stars, including the leading players from Thailand, are expected to converge at Suwan Country Club, which is located 45 minutes from Bangkok city. “Thailand has always been a strong supporter of the Asian Tour and it is through our partnership with the golf associations in Thailand that we are able to grow the game here. Our sponsors have played a vital role in ensuring the Asian Tour International continues to feature on our Schedule and we are confident this event will grow from strength-to-strength,” said Han. He added the success of Thai golfers, which has seen the likes of Thongchai Jaidee lifting a record three Asian Tour Order of Merit titles plus 12 victories, and Thaworn Wiratchant in winning 11 tournaments, have been due largely to their exposure on the Asian Tour. In 2009, Chapchai Nirat and Chinnarat Phadungsil joined Thongchai and Thaworn a winners on the Asian Tour and they are expected to feature in the seasonopening Asian Tour International. Earlier this year, South African James Kamte, fresh from earning a Tour card from Qualifying School, stunned the field at Suwan to win the Asian Tour International. Han said the Asian Tour International will be a great opportunity for graduates from Qualifying School, which will be played in midJanuary, to stamp their mark early in the season. “James made full use of his opportunity from Qualifying School to win his first title on the Asian Tour and I am sure the graduates from the 2010 School will come out in full-force in their search for early success in Asia,” said Han.
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MS3.Products
Get a HEAD start with Head Golf shoes
HEAD Golf brings forth the Momento and Vector collections to add to their already impressive line of golf shoes. HEAD Golf’s Momento and Vector promise wearers comfort, support, flexibility and grip. Known for their integrated technologies to give you maximum comfort, these shoes feature the SHIELD: system; a weather-resistant technology that repels water penetration while maintaining breathability. The superiority of the shoes is further enhanced with the ULTra COOL mesh membrane; a membrane that helps keep your feet comfortably cool and dry by reducing moisture penetration without compromising its optimum air-flow within the shoes. The soft nappa-microfiber upper leather ensures that the shoes are well-ventilated and the cushioned-back provides great comfort. The Power Arch Support and WAVE high abrasion rubber with FLUID spikes do a great job in providing support. HEAD Golf Momento is available in White/Orange and Charcoal/Orange at all MST GOLF outlets. HEAD Golf Vector is available in White/Black and White/Ultra Red and is exclusively available at authorised dealers. Both are priced RM 249 each.
month of january 2010
Titleist announces
new advanced performance irons
New Titleist AP1 and AP2 Irons Provide Enhanced Performance with Improved Feel Building upon the high technology design and resounding success of the original AP irons, Titleist introduces two new high performance iron products for avid golfers. The new Titleist AP1 and AP2 are multi-material, dual cavity irons that take the design mission of “Advanced PerformanceYou Can Feel” to new heights. “The new AP1 and AP2 irons embody significant improvements in feel, forgiveness and shot control to what had already been recognized as a revolutionary step forward in iron design,” said Steve Pelisek, GM Titleist Golf Clubs. “The new AP1 and AP2 irons offer the most successful marriage of playability and forgiveness, and traditional looks, feel and feedback available in the market today. Along with the introduction of the new MB and CB forged irons, Titleist offers the most comprehensive range of irons to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of serious golfers.” The concept for the original Advanced Performance irons arose as a result of research that indicated serious golfers want performance with great feel, not performance at the expense of feel. The Titleist R&D team’s advanced research group has been conducting extensive sound and vibration analysis aimed at reducing the harsh lower frequency vibration that causes poor feel in irons. This research led to combining several technologies and materials in the back cavity of the new AP irons resulting in a new Tuned Feel System to take feel to a new level. “The new AP1 and AP2 irons retain the dual cavity design and multi-material construction that is the key to their advanced performance,” said Dan Stone, Vice President, Research and Development, Titleist Golf Clubs. “However, the designs have been significantly upgraded for feel with the addition of our new Tuned Feel System. Additionally, the structure of the new AP1 provides improved forgiveness, while a modified sole on the new AP2 provides improved ground control” The new Tuned Feel System is a co-molded medallion of soft elastomer and aluminum plate. This insert has been specifically designed to improve the sound and feel of each new iron. For the thinner face, larger cavity AP1 a hotter, more lively feel has been enhanced. For the new AP2 a
softer, more solid feel is achieved. Extensive improvements to the new AP1 structure include reducing the face thickness to provide enhanced heel, toe, and deep weighting to the frame and moving the tungsten nickel material to the sole resulting in increased stability and forgiveness. Subtle refinements to the new AP2 have created performance gains in feel, sound, and turf interaction.
New ap1 irons features and benefits
Overview/Player Profile: Titleist AP1 irons are advanced performance, multi-material, dual cavity irons providing improved feel, great looks, shot control and higher flight with forgiveness for the avid to skilled golfer. Advanced Performance with Feel: High quality, high technology design and construction featuring a precise cast 431 stainless steel body, high density tungsten nickel sole and Tuned Feel System to enhance performance, forgiveness and feel. Improved Feel: A thin face with integrated aluminum and soft elastomer Tuned Feel System in the back cavity improves sound and feel at impact for a hotter, more lively feel. The high-density tungsten nickel sole bar reduces low frequency vibration for solid feel. More Forgiving: A perimeter weighted back flange and tungsten nickel sole bar
locates the CG low and deep for increased MOI, forgiveness and stability. Higher Ball Speed: A thin face, dual cavity design pushes weight to the perimeter for a hotter face and flight. Improved Short Irons: Shorter blade length, thinner topline, and reduced visual offset deliver control and performance. Improved Confidence Inspiring Appearance: Contemporary, confidence inspiring appearance features a traditional profile with modern proportions. A slightly thinner topline and improved hosel blends for reduced visual offset provide an enhanced set-up appearance. Stock Shafts and Grip: Stock steel shaft is a NS Pro 950GH high performance lightweight. Stock graphite shaft is Aldila VS Proto-T 75 exclusively for Titleist. Stock grip is Tour-proven feel and traction of the Titleist Tour Velvet Rubber by Golf Pride. Other shaft, grip, length and lie options are available through Titleist Custom. High Performance Sole: High
TaylorMade introduces Rossa Monza TaylorMade Golf has introduced a new addition to its popular line of Rossa® Monza® Spider putters, called the Monza Spider Balero, a large mallet that combines the forgiveness and feel of the Monza Spider with a uniquely shaped head that makes it dramatically easier to aim the clubface correctly. “We spend a lot of time studying putting and the reasons why most average golfers don’t putt as well as tour pros do,” said Bill Price, senior director of Rossa. “One in-depth analysis we conducted focused
on putts of 14 feet and less. That’s a range where pros convert a relatively high percentage of the time, but amateurs don’t. Why? One of the reasons is because, according to our data, the amateur aims the putterface poorly 64.4% of the time. Meaning that on two out of every three putts, the player mis-aims.” Monza Spider Balero’s head was designed to be extremely easy to aim. Its prominent “ball-in-cup” feature in the back of the head provides a visual cue that makes it incredibly simple to line up the
clubface with the intended line. At address, the image of the ball resting in front of the clubface works in conjunction with the white line on Balero’s crown and the round hole through the back to help simplify the act of starting the ball rolling on the exact line you’ve chosen, especially if you line up the ball’s label or side stamp (or if you prefer to draw a line on the ball) with the line across the top of Balero’s crown. Balero’s ball-in-cup feature serves another positive function.
MS3.Products
month of january 2010
performance sole with width, camber and bounce specs designed to deliver playability from a variety of lies and turf conditions without excessive bounce or dig. Dual Hosel Lengths: Shorter hosel in long irons helps bias weight low for improved launch. Progressive Offset and Stronger Lofts: Blade length is the same throughout the set with enhanced progressive offset. Lofts are one-two degrees stronger versus AP2. Grooves: Modified U (28 degree wall), 2010 conforming. Price/Availability: Available from 4-P in both right and left hand in midNovember 2009, with a suggested retail price of S$1,365 (Steel) and S$1,645 (Graphite) in Singapore and RM2,890 (Steel) and RM3,650 (Graphite) in Malaysia.
New ap2 irons features and benefits
Overview/Player Profile: Titleist AP2 irons are advanced performance, multi-material, dual cavity forged irons that provide improved feel, classic blade looks, and playability with shot control for the serious and skilled golfer.
Advanced Performance with Feel: High quality, high technology design and construction featuring a forged steel body, high density tungsten nickel sole and Tuned Feel System to enhance performance and feel. Improved Feel: The integrated aluminum and soft elastomer Tuned Feel System in the back cavity improves sound and feel at impact. The soft forged carbon steel body and high-density tungsten nickel sole box reduces low frequency vibration, for soft, solid feel. Playability with Shot Control: Dual cavity design pushes weight to the perimeter resulting in playability without loss of shot shaping control. Improved Short Irons: Reduced bounce sole delivers improved ground contact. High Performance Sole: High performance sole with width, camber and bounce specs designed to deliver playability from a variety of lies and turf conditions without excessive bounce or dig. Confidence Inspiring Appearance: Contemporary, confidence inspiring set-up appearance features a traditional blade profile with soft
blends and classic proportions. Dual Hosel Lengths: Shorter hosel in long irons helps bias weight low for improved launch. Longer hosel in mid and short irons helps manage flight. Stock Shaft and Grip: High performance, tourproven Dynamic Gold shaft provides player preferred feel, weight feedback and shot control. Also available in NS Pro 950GH high performance lightweight steel. Titleist Tour Velvet Rubber by Golf Pride with tour-proven feel and traction. Other shaft, grip, length and lie options are available through Titleist Custom. Grooves: Modified V (37.5 degree wall), 2010 conforming. Price/Availability: Available from 3-P in both right and left hand in midNovember 2009 with a suggested retail price of S$2,120 (Steel) in Singapore and RM4,620 (Steel) Malaysia.
Spider Balero Looking at it reinforces the image of a ball against the center of the back lip of the cup. That positively reinforces the practice of rolling the ball firmly into the back of the cup on short putts, which promotes a firm, accelerating stroke while discouraging deceleration. Balero’s large head and shape serve another critical purpose, and that’s to deliver super-high MOI for the kind of stability and forgiveness on mis-hits that mallet fans covet. And the uni-body (made from a single piece) stainless steel
construction, combined with a soft polymer AGSI® insert, contributes to Balero’s remarkably soft feel. An additional advantage to the Balero’s shape and design is that it boasts an exceptionally low center of gravity. That low CG works in conjunction with AGSI technology to promote an even smoother, tighter roll of the face. Compared to the Monza Spider, the Balero’s CG is a full 15% lower. “The Rossa Monza Spider Balero’s easy-to-aim shape, forgiveness and smooth-rolling AGSI
technology makes it a phenomenal putter, and absolutely deadly from short range,” said Price. “Plus, it’s already been played on the PGA Tour and been used to win an event on the Japan Tour.” The Rossa Monza Spider Balero is available locally at a MSRP of RM690.
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TaylorMade for kids
TaylorMade adidas Golf launches new clubs for the next generation of golfers TaylorMade is downsizing – the size of its clubs that is! They are launching a long-anticipated range of Kids clubs so now there is no excuse for not gearing-up and having fun with the entire family on the golf course. Targeted at children aged seven to 10 years old, the junior set consists of a driver, rescue, putter and three irons. The six-piece set comes in a child-friendly stand bag, along with a Burner cap and towel to add the finishing touches. The junior Burner club set features all the latest TaylorMade technology that the adult golfers enjoy. The Burner driver has a titanium face and Burner alignment head graphics for longer, straighter drives; and to assist easy launch from the fairways, the junior Burner Rescue is made from stainless steel. The three irons offer a low, deep centre of gravity with a high moment of inertia (MOI) to allow easy launch and accuracy. On the greens, juniors will enjoy using a Rossa Centre Shafted Mallet putter that matches the adult equivalent specifications. “As a leading golf brand, TaylorMade constantly receives positive accolades in its product offerings, particularly in the area of golf clubs and equipment. These credentials resonate well with parents who want to inspire their kids to play golf. Children are starting to play golf at a younger age and it is important they begin with the right equipment to help develop and nurture their talent,” explains Heng Lye Guan, Country Manager TaylorMade-adidas Golf. “When they watch Tour players like Sergio Garcia and Paula Creamer, they want to be just like them and now they can with their very own TaylorMade clubs and accessories. This will definitely build their confidence and loyalty for the brand from a young age. Moreover, demand for Kids clubs is rising so this is a good time for us to launch the clubs to satisfy this growing market.” Many parents dream of seeing their children in the pinnacle of professional golf. As more young Asian players make their mark and the competition gets tougher, the next generation of champions are being encouraged to start playing and training early to get one-step ahead. Walking side by side; parents, grandparents and children can now enjoy the latest TaylorMade adidas Golf ranges so they look great and have the best equipment in their bag, specially designed for their requirements. Start planning for those special Christmas and birthday presents now! The Burner Kids sets will be available in two versions Kids set for 7-10 years old (MSRP: RM1,190.00) and Kids set for 4-6 years old (MSRP: RM1,090.00). Available from September 2009.
34
MS3.golf Directory
1 DAIMAN 18 JOHOR BAHRU JOHOR Tel: 07 - 351 6813 Fax: 07 - 351 6823 CATHERINE YONG / MR. JOHN CHUA No.18, Jalan Pesona, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100, Johor Bahru, Johor daiman18@daiman.com.my 2 DESARU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB JOHOR Tel: 07 - 822 2333 Fax: 07 - 822 1855 ENCIK RAMLY YUSOF (golf manager) 012-2173575 PO Box 26, Bandar Penawar, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor desarug@po.jaring.my 3 KELAB GOLF BATU PAHAT JOHOR Tel: 07 - 432 9221 Fax: 07 - 434 2221 MR YEO KEE HUAT (012-702 7586) 678, Jalan Dato’ Mohd Shah, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor
4
BUKIT BANANG GOLF @ COUNTRY CLUB JOHOR Tel: 07-428 5431 Fax: 07-428 7485 En. Mohd Ibrahim Badri (019-702 7586) No. 1, Persiaran Gemilang, Taman Banang Jaya, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor golf@bukitbanang.com.my 5 HORIZON HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB JOHOR Tel: 07 - 232 3166 Fax: 07 - 232 3919 ENCIK HAERUDDIN BIN SANUSI (019-251 2036) 1, Jln Eka, Horizon Hills, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor general@hhgcc.com.my 6 PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB JOHOR Tel: 07 - 354 9999 Fax: 07 - 355 7400 Cyril Pancratius (Golf Mgr) 019-758 8911 10-C, Jln Bumi Hijau 3, Tmn Molek, 81100 JB 7 PULAI SPRINGS RESORT JOHOR Tel: 07 - 521 2121 Fax: 07 - 521 1818 MR ALFRED NG / EN. FARROUL 0127225337 Km 20, Jalan Pontian Lama, 81110 Pulai, Johor psrb@psrb.com.my
8 STARHILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB JOHOR Tel: 07 - 556 6325 Fax: 07 - 556 7327 ENCIK FADIL (019-771 5389) KM 6.5, Jln Kmpg Maju Jaya, Kempas Lama, 81300 JB shcc_res@tm.net.my 9 TANJONG PUTERI GOLF RESORT JOHOR Tel: 07 - 271 1888 Fax: 07 - 271 1333 En. Azizan Sulaiman / Magdelene Jalan Tanjung Puteri 1, 81700 Pasir Gudang, Johor azizan@tpgr.com 10 THE LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT JOHOR Tel: 07 - 652 4388 Fax: 07 - 652 6388 Azzah (Golf Oper) 014-617 0335 1302, Kebun Sedenak, P.O. Box 11, 81000 Kulai, Johor enquiry@legends-resort.com 11 CINTA SAYANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB KEDAH Tel: 04 - 441 4777 Fax: 04 - 441 5324 MR THANABALAN (012-557 7772) Persiaran Cinta Sayang, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah cintasayang@cinta-sayang.com.my 12 DARULAMAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB KEDAH Tel: 04 - 917 0001 Fax: 04 - 917 7890 ENCIK AZMAN BIN AWANG (012-452 2165) P.O. Box 24, 06007 Jitra, Kedah maxcarry@yahoo.com 13 HARVARD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB KEDAH Tel: 04 - 458 6887 Fax: 04 - 458 6782 ENCIK REDZUAN ADAM / EN. ShUKRI 012435 2669 08100 Bedong, Kedah sales@harvardhotel.com.my 14 PERMAIPURA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB KEDAH Tel: 04 - 452 1000 Fax: 04 - 452 1003 EN. SUKAIRI (GOLF OPERATION) 019-355 9631 Jalan Permaipura 5, Riverside, 08100 Bedong, Kedah 15 BLACK FOREST GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB KEDAH Tel: 04-922 2822 Fax: 04-922 2798 Mr. KP Leong (019-413 1361) Zon Bebas Cukai, Bukit Kayu Hitam, 06050 Jitra, Kedah Darul Aman
month of January 2010
16 KELANTAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB KELANTAN Tel: 09 - 748 2102 Fax: 09 - 747 2918 TUAN HAJI MD DIN (019-9382888) / Tn Hj Wan Yusof 5488, Jln Hospital, 15200 Kota Bharu, Kelantan 17 BUKIT JALIL GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03 - 8994 1600 Fax: 03 - 8994 1542 MR HEW TIAN SOONG Jalan 3/155B, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur bgrb@bukit-jalil.com.my 18 KELAB GOLF TITIWANGSA PDRM Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03 - 7957 3344 Fax: 03 - 7957 7821 Capt. Amri / Ms. Im 012-296 2614 Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, 53300 Kuala Lumpur 19 KUALA LUMPUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03 - 2093 1111 Fax: 03 - 2093 3393 ENCIK ZAINURIN JAAFAR (012-329 9957) 10, Jln 1/70D, Off Jln Bkt Kiara 60000 KL 20 A’FAMOSA GOLF RESORT BHD MELAKA Tel: 06 - 552 0888 Fax: 06 - 552 0695 Mr. Jimmy Ho (Golf Mgr) 019-6003498 Jalan Kemus, Pulau Sebang, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka operations.golf@afamosa.com 21 AYER KEROH COUNTRY CLUB MELAKA Tel: 06 - 232 2000 Fax: 06 - 232 3578 ENCIK ABAS YAHYA 013-611 4262 KM14.50, Jalan Ayer Keroh, Ayer Keroh, Melaka 22 ORNA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB MELAKA Tel: 06 - 521 0333 Fax: 06 - 521 0222 Mr. Woon Fah Chean (Golf Mgr) Ms. Tay 0126113876 Bt 16, Jalan Gapam, Ladang Gapam, Bemban, 77200 Jasin, Melaka ogcc@ornaresort.com.my 23 TIARA MELAKA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB MELAKA Tel: 06 - 231 1111 Fax: 06 - 231 4122 En. Johari Md. Derus (Golf Mgr) 012-611 2973 P.O. Box 473, Jalan Gapam, 75450 Ayer Keroh, Melaka tmgcc@streamyx.com
24 KELAB DIRAJA SRI MENANTI N. Sembilan Tel: 06 - 497 9888 Fax: 06 - 497 9900 ENCIK SALEHAN 019-6843649 / Md Arif 0196541831 Istana Perkasa Alam, Seri Menanti, 71550 N.Sembilan kdrsm@tm.net.my 25 PORT DICKSON GOLF & COUNTRY N. Sembilan Tel: 06-647 3123 Fax: 06-6474949 En. Syazwan (012-350 6847) / Ms. Dorothi 012-3676469 KM 8, Jalan Pantai, 71050 Si Rusa, Port Dickson 26 STAFFIELD COUNTRY RESORT N. Sembilan Tel: 03 - 8766 6117 Fax: 03 - 8766 7173 ENCIK YUNUS BIN HAJI ISMAIL (016-660 3337) Bt 13, Jln Seremban-KL, 71700 Mantin, N. Sembilan 27 BERJAYA HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB PAHANG Tel: 09 - 288 8890 Fax: 09 - 288 8832 MISS LILIEN LIEW (012-200 2802) KM 48, Persimpangan Bertingkat Lebuhraya Karak, Bukit Tinggi, 28750 Bentong, Pahang 28 KELAB GOLF BENTONG PAHANG Tel: 09 - 222 2585 MR CHANG SEE TUM 019-334 0644 3679, Jalan Teras Batu 2, 28700 Bentong, Pahang 29 CLEARWATER SANCTUARY GOLF CLUB PERAK Tel: 05 - 366 7433 Fax: 05 - 366 7434 MR YAP KENNAN / En. Norazam (016-523 6145) PT 6019, Jln Changkat Larang, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak 30 DAMAI LAUT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB PERAK Tel: 05 - 685 9330 Fax: 05 - 618 1018 ENCIK BATHURUZZAMAN (016-247 1876) Jln Damai Laut, Off Jln Teluk Senangin, 32200 Lumut, Perak cm_dlgcc@swissgarden.com 31 KINTA GOLF CLUB PERAK Tel: 05 - 3651354 Fax: 05 - 366 3870 TUAN HAJI RAZALI BIN HAJI YAHYA 25536, Jln Changkat, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak
MS3. golf Directory
month of January 2010
32 MERU VALLEY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB PERAK Tel: 05 - 529 3300/33 Fax: 05 - 529 3311 ENCIK RUSLAN BIN ABAS (012-560 7970) Jln Bukit Meru, 30020 Ipoh, Perak 33 TAIPING GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB PERAK Tel: 05 - 883 7500 Fax: 05 - 883 7133 PUAN NOR SAHARAH 012-515 6170 Taiping Resort, Jln Bukit Jana, P.O. Box 4, 34600 Kamunting, Perak tgcc_pvb@hotmail.com 34 KELAB GOLF PUTRA PERLIS Tel: 04 - 976 9660 Fax: 04 - 976 1203 Herry 017-5051678 / milia 012-564 3939 Jalan Sungai Batu Pahat, 01000 Kangar, Perlis 35 BUKIT JAWI GOLF RESORT PENANG Tel: 04 - 582 0759 Fax: 04 - 582 2613 En. Firdaus Abdullah (Asst Golf Mgr) Lot 414, MK 6, Jln Paya Kemian Sempayi, 14200 Sungai Bakap, P.Pinang 36 MOUNTAIN VIEW RESORT PENANG Tel: 04 - 582 2280 Fax: 04 - 582 2281 EN. OMAR (CLUB MANAGER) Kristal Golf Resort, 364, Jln Valdor, Sg. Bakap, 14200 Seberang Perai, P. Pinang 37 KARAMBUNAI RESORTS GOLF CLUB SABAH Tel: 088 - 411 215 Fax: 088 - 411 217 MISS VIVIEN QUEK (019-830 0737) Locked Bag 101, 88993 Kota kinabalu, Sabah sales@karambunaigolf.com 38 LABUAN GOLF CLUB SABAH Tel: 087- 423670 MR RANJIT SINGH (019-812 1056) P.O.Box 81287, 87022 Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan, Sabah kgc@po.jaring.my 39 RANAU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SABAH Tel: 088 - 875 554 Fax: 088 - 893 075 Mr. Boy Sharif Francis (019-882 5265) / Dahlan Batu 1, Jln Ranau-Tambunan, P.O. Box 222, Ranau, 89307 Sabah
40 SUTERA HARBOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SABAH Tel: 088 - 252 266 Fax: 088 - 252 211 MR DAVID SPENCER / Mr. Ethan (017-833 0611) 1, Sutera Harbour Boulevard, 8 8100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah golf@suteraharbour.com.my 41 TAWAU (HOT SPRING) GOLF CLUB SABAH Tel: 089 - 765 555 Fax: 089 - 762 904 MR MA SUI KONG (019 - 853 0707) P.O. Box 697, 91008 Tawau, Sabah tgclub@tm.net.my 42 TAMBUNAN GOLF CLUB SABAH Tel: 087 - 773114 MR JINUS (013 - 852 1522) Jalan Selibog, KM 92 Keningau-KK, Tambunan kgmr@tm.net.my
48 KELAB GOLF SRI MORIB SELANGOR Tel: 03-3198 1418 Fax: 03-3198 1125 En. Ramlan Ali (012-631 1418) Morib, 42700 Banting, Selangor Darul Ehsan 49 KOTA PERMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SELANGOR 0Tel: 3 - 5122 3700 Fax: 03 - 5122 3702 ENCIK SARUDIN BIN SHARUDDIN (012-322 1535) 1, Jln 31/100A, Section 31, Kota Kemuning, 40460 Shah Alam, Selangor kpgcc@kotapermai.com.my 50 MONTEREZ GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SELANGOR Tel: 03 - 7846 5989 Fax: 03 - 7846 9864 ENCIK SHAMIR ABDULLAH (012-207 1096) 141, Jln Merah Kesumba U9/18, Section U9, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor
43 KENINGAU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SABAH Tel: 087 - 331113 MR SIM BOON SENG (019-822 6969) Jalan Luagan, Kampung Pasir Putih, P.O.Box 990, 89008, Sabah
51 PERANGSANG TEMPLER GOLF CLUB SELANGOR Tel: 03 - 6091 0022 Fax: 03 - 6091 0023 ENCIK MD HIZER (012- 326 0503) 1, Jln Ipoh-Rawang. KM 20, Templer Park Resort. 48000 Rawang, Selangor 52 TROPICANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SELANGOR Tel: 03 - 7804 1531 03 - 7804 3688 Zamli Alias, Head of Golf Dept Jalan Kelab Tropicana, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor golf@tropicanagolf.com 53 AWANA KIJAL GOLF & BEACH RESORT TERENGGANU Tel: 09 - 864 1188 09 - 864 1688 ENCIK SAFUDIN ( 013-9935 728) KM 28, Jalan Kemaman-Dungun, 24100 Kijal, Terengganu 54 GREEN ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB TERENGGANU Tel: 09-616 3500 Fax: 09-616 3700 EN. ROZI LOT PT 969K, Kg Tok Adis, Mukim Kuala Ibai, 20400 Kuala Terengganu igcc@streamyx.com 55 KELAB GOLF DESA DUNGUN TERENGGANU Tel: 09 - 848 1041 Fax: 09 - 848 1041 ENCIK ZUBIR (019-953 5902) Kampung Sura Hujong, 23000 Dungun, Terengganu
44 BUKIT UNGGUL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SELANGOR Tel: 03 - 8920 2888 Fax: 03 - 8920 2009 ENCIK MURAD ZI 013-6913665 / MS. MAY WONG Lot PT 2180 - 2181, Mukim Dengkil, Daerah Sepang, 43807 Dengkil, Selangor mgrmktbucc@karambunaicorp.com 45 KELAB GOLF SULTAN ABD AZIZ SHAH SELANGOR 03 - 5510 5872 Fax: 03 - 5510 5860 MR GARY NG / SHAGITA 1, Rumah Club, Jln Kelab Golf 13/6, 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor afendi@kgsaas.com.my 46 KELAB RAHMAN PUTRA MALAYSIA SELANGOR Tel: 03 - 6156 6870 Fax: 03 - 6156 0280 Florence Chang Mee Kheng (GM) / Kanages Jln BRP 2/1, Bukit Rahman Putra, Sungai Buloh, 47000 Selangor gm@krpm.com.my 47 DANAU GOLF CLUB SELANGOR Tel: 03 - 8925 1010 Fax: 03 - 8925 0855 ENCIK ABDUL RAZAK (019-756 4400) Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor
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56 KUALA TERENGGANU GOLF RESORT TERENGGANU Tel: 09 - 666 5836 Fax: 09 - 666 6493 MR ANTHONY MARTIN (016-773 9140) Tok Jembal, Mukim Kuala Nerus, 21300 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu ktgr@po.jaring.my / waffa@yahoo.com 57 PANAGA GOLF CLUB BRUNEI Tel: 673-337 3142 Fax: 673-337 4056 RICHARD LAU KOK SENG / HJ IBRAHIM (G. CAPT) c/o Brunei shell petroleum co. Sdn. Bhd. Seria KB 3534 Brunei Darussalam
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MS3.SUKMA NEWS
month of january 2010
“It’s great to be back, Many things have happened throughout my career and I guess it is only fair for me to aim to be in the top 20 next year.” – Mirza
Beauties use KL as stepping stone THE Showdown of Champions 2009 ‘Glam Slam’ featured some of the best names in the world of tennis. The four stars – Russians Maria Kirilenko, Elena Dementieva, India’s Sania Mirza and Zheng Jie of China – pitted their skills against each other as they played in what was billed as Asia versus Russia at the Malawati Stadium in Shah Alam. It wasn’t just an exhibition match for the beauty queens. All four aces are determined to put their 2009 season behind and start fresh in their 2010 campaign en route to securing better standings in the WTA ranking. Kirilenko is eager to break into the top 10 while Dementieva, who won the gold medal at the Beijing Olympics, is hoping to net more titles in 2010. Kirilenko, who aspired to become a dancer only to find her true calling in tennis, admitted it has been a rough 2009 but found her form after
Wimbledon. This was Kirilenko’s first time in Malaysia. Even Dementieva had not visited KL prior to the Showdown of Champions. Dementieva even flew in her family members to celebrated Christmas in KL. Mirza, however, is no stranger to Malaysia. Having played in several ITF tournaments and having spent several vacations with her family and close friends in Penang and KL, Mirza was all geared up to play in Malaysia. She, too, aims to make a break in the top 20. “It’s great to be back,” Mirza said. “Many things have happened throughout my career and I guess it is only fair for me to aim to be in the top 20 next year.” China’s Zheng Jie hopes her dry spell this year will change to good fortune in the Year of the Tiger. Zheng Jie, together with Li Na, has showed the world that China is a rising force in the scene and that the dominance
of the Russians could soon be over. That aside, Malaysian fans are the real winners. Not only did they get to see their idols in action but the impact created by such events will have a ripple effect in the local fraternity. Having hosted a string of players in the past including Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, James Blake and Richard Gasquet, there has been an increase in interest among the locals. Tickets sales have been encouraging as those selling tennis equipments admitted to having enjoyed an increase in sales. Even tennis courts are booked regularly, partly thanks to the support by the Tourism Ministry and the Lawn Tennis Association of Malaysia. Hopefully, the increase of interest would slowly translate into creating a larger pool of talent for the future and that Malaysians could join some of the big names at international tournaments.
Maria Kirilenko Russia, 22-years-old Sexy and Brainy
Elena Dementieva Russia, 28-years-old Schoolgirl Charm
One of the most attractive and sexiest tennis stars on the planet, Maria Kirilenko is equally at home on the tennis courts or steering a yacht. Likes to listen to Beethoven and Bach. Affectionately called Makiri, Maria is the poster girl of world tennis. In 2006, Kirilenko was selected to be the face of adidas by Stella McCartney tennis range, designed by noted British fashion designer Stella McCartney and has played exclusively in the gear since the 2006 Australian Open. She likes connecting athletics and fashion and appeared in the glamorous 2009 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition alongside Daniela Hantuchova and Tatiana Goloving in a pictorial entitled Volley of the Dolls.
Beijing 2008 Olympic champion who enjoys a good record in Asia, Elena Dementieva combines elegance and strength on court. The Showdown of Champions 09, Asia versus Russia, is Elena’s final stop before she boards the plane to Perth for the Hopman Cup in January, partnering Igor Andreev ahead of the Australian Open. Blonde, tall and cute, Elena’s cheery demeanour on the court gives her an irresistible schoolgirl charm, especially when she ties her hair in a ponytail. She throws her arms up for joy when she scores, and contorts her face into a poignant grimace when she loses, always desirable in her rang of emotions An international champion at 13, victories in her own backyard were non-stop, never falling below the top four female tennis players of Russia.
Sania Mirza India, 23-years-old Indian Icon
Zheng Jie China, 25-years-old Charity Queen
Blessed with Bollywood looks and as one of the most recognised and talked about women in India, Sania personifies the emerging India and is regarded with a passion usually reserved for movie stars and the country’s cricket team. The youth icon of India became a rage in her country when she reached the fourth round of the US Open in 2005, thus becoming the first ever Indian women to reach the fourth round of any Grand Slam event. Sania’s meteoric rise up the rankings has been accompanied by exploding popularity in her native India and with Indian populations all over the world. She is often cheered on by large, flag-waving Indian crowds at tournaments around the globe and has received an incredible amount of media attention, including public appearance request.
First Chinese player ever to reach the semi-finals of a Grand Slam singles tournament in Wimbledon in 2008 and only the second time a wild-card player has reached the women’s semi-finals in the Open era, Zheng Jie donated her winnings to the Sichuan earthquake victims. She auctioned her gear and the money was made to establish a court in Dujiangyan, a badlytorn city along theYangtze River. On the one year anniversary of the earthquake, she also visited Shifang, about 40km away from Wenchuan, the hardest-hit town in the May 12, 2008 earthquake disaster, and taught the school children there how to play tennis.
MS3.news
month of january 2010
37
Thailand scored a number of firsts in the badminton world - walking away with two of the five titles by winning the girls’ singles and the mixed doubles titles.
Thais pose a big threat Malaysia kept their rich tradition in the boys’ doubles when Chooi Kah Ming-Ow Yao Han came back from the brink to land the title in this year’s Yonex-Sunrise BWF World Junior Badminton Championships. The Malaysians slogged for 55 minutes before beating Indonesia’s Berry Angriayawan-Muhammad Ullinhua 19-21, 21-12, 23-21 as Malaysia retained the title they won in Pune, India last year. This is the fifth time that Malaysia have bagged the boys’ doubles title since Gan Whye Teck-Chan Chong
Ming first won in I996 in Silkerborg, Denmark. But amidst the joy and euphoria of winning the boys’ doubles title, more so when the Kah-Ming-Yao Han pair was brought together only in August, Malaysia must take note of Thailand. Thailand scored a number of firsts in the badminton world - walking away with two of the five titles by winning the girls’ singles and the mixed doubles titles. The world hailed 14-year-old Ratchanok Intanon as the youngest
ever player to win the world junior singles title. In an all-Thailand final, Ratchanok beat 18-year-old Porntip Buranaprasertsuk 21-15, 21-23, 21-10. The mixed doubles pair of Maneepong Jongjit-Rodjana Chuthabunditkul had earlier scored a first for Thai badminton as their first world badminton champions at any level after beating Indonesians Angga Pratama-Destiara Haris Della. To return home with two titles are strong signals from Thailand that they are fast catching up on their rivals.
HISTORY MAKERS: Ratchanok Intanon (left) and Porntip Buranaprasertsuk created history when they reached the World Junior Badminton Championships girls’ singles final in Alor Star
Chong Wei outdoes himself Ever since becoming the brand ambassador for 100PLUS, world No.1 Lee Chong Wei has strived to live up to the isotonic’s tagline – outdo yourself. And he has just done that by clinching his seventh international title of the year The Olympic silver medallist’s victory in the Yonex Sunrise BWF Super Series Masters Finals meant he has won two titles more than he has ever done in a single year. The top seeded Chong Wei brought out the best in him to survive a strong challenge from South Korea’s Park Sung Hwan to win 21-17, 21-17. Earlier, he defeated Denmark’s Peter-Gade Christensen, in an energy-sapping 59-minute final 21-13, 13-21, 21-16 in Hong Kong. It was his fourth Super Series title after having won in Malaysia, Switzerland and Indonesia. Chong Wei also won two other international titles – the Grand Prix Gold events in Malaysia and Macau. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s top woman shuttler Mew Choo started the ball rolling in the Yonex Sunrise BWF Super Series Masters Finals by winning the
singles title with a 21-15, 21-7 win over surprise finalist Juliane Schenk of German. Then women’s doubles pair Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui took the court to retain the title with a 21-17, 21-14 win over Denmark’s Kamilla Rytter Juhl-Lena Frier Kristiansen. A jubilant Chong Wei said: “I have achieved what I had set out to do in Johor Baru. I was well prepared to face any challenger. I must admit that in the second game I was in a hurry to finish my match against Park and made silly mistakes to allow the Korean catch up when I was leading 13-3 at one stage. “But I was confident and checked the slide. It is very satisfying to win the title again. I hope to add my titles next year,” added Chong Wei, who won four Super Series titles and two GP Gold tournaments this year. Mew Choo took the title with an unbeaten record and she once again displayed all round superiority in her game to tame her German opponent. “God gave me bonus,” said Mew Choo, who began the tournament with a bang when she defeated
top seed Saina Nehwal of India 21-13, 13-21, 21-14 win in her opening match. “I should not be playing here as I did not qualify on merit. But it has been a sort of a ‘fairy tale’ run. Winning the title is certainly a boost before I play in the SEA Games.I am still disturbed by the knee injuries but I am coping well.” Schenk had no complaints in not winning the title. She will certainly cherish playing in a big final because she too was a replacement due to a spate of withdrawals in the season-ending tournament, which offers US$500,000 in prize money. “I may have lost but playing in the final (of the Super Series Masters Finals) is a big thing in Germany. I am happy with what I have achieved here. The US$20,000 prize money I won is a Christmas bonus,” said Schenk who asked for medical treatment after running into breathing difficulties midway in the second game. “Mew Choo played very well and she deserves to win,” added Schenk who beat Nehwal 21-18, 21-18 in the semi-final.
RESULTS (ALL FINALS) Men’s Singles Lee Chong Wei (MASx1) bt Park Sung Hwan (KOR) 21-17, 21-17 Men’s Doubles Jung Jae Sung-LeeYong Dae (KOR) bt Carsten Mogensen-Mathias Boe (DENx2) 21-15, 21-15 Women’s Singles Wong Mew Choo (MAS) bt Juliane Schenk (GER) 21-15, 21-7 Women’s Doubles Wong Pei Tty-Chin Eei Hui (MASx1) bt Kamilla Rytter Juhl-Lena Frier Kristiansen (DEN) 21-17, 21-14 Mixed Doubles Joachim Fischer Nielsen-Christinna Pedersen (DENx1) bt V. Diju-Jwala Gutta (IND) 21-14, 21-18
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MS3.news
month of january 2010
FOOTBALL
Hanoi and Jakarta to host Asean Football Championship
Malaysia redeems pride in Vientiane By Rizal Abdullah Malaysian football redeemed its battered pride by winning the SEA Games football gold medal for the first time in 20 years when it beat Vietnam 1-0 in Vientiane, Laos. But it was not a smooth ride for the National Under-23 team. It started off badly when they didn’t get clearance from the Laos government to land Wattay Airport in Vientiane and only arrived in the capital a day late. The delay could have been part of the reason for the team’s 3-1 defeat to Vietnam in their opening match but was no excuse for the players behaviour after the game when they vented their anger at the match officials. After thrashing East Timor, Malaysia then stunned champions Thailand to 2-1 despite falling a goal down. It was a loss which ended Thailand’s chance to adding to its seventh consecutive SEA Games football titles. In the semi-finals Malaysia saw off Laos 3-1 while Vietnam romped to a 4-1 win over Singapore.
Still, Malaysia were not given a ghost of chance against the Vietnamese as it looked as if the final was being played in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Thousands of Vietnamese crossed into Vientiane to support their team. With Malaysian football taking a beating in international matches, even Malaysians were sceptical about the team’s hopes of winning the gold medal.
My colleague Abdul Rahman was one of them – even laying bets – first on a Thai win in the group match and then on a Laos win (in the semis) and a win for Vietnam in the final. After all Laos had inflicted a painful 1-0 defeat on Malaysia in the 1997 Jakarta SEA
Games – a defeat that knocked Malaysia out of the semi-finals. This time around he added that Laos had improved by leaps and bounds (a fact that cannot be denied) plus the home ground advantage and fan support. It was only natural for Rahman and many others not to put their faith in the team after 20 years of hurt. Rajagobal triumphed where others had failed, even if it was an own goal which helped his team to the
title. The players and officials were then handed a RM30,000 bonus from the FA of Malaysia (FAM). It is now left for those involved in the team – from management to coaching – to take off from where they left in Vientiane. As usual, there are many who jumped on the bandwagon to share the glory. To them, all I ask is contribute towards making Malaysian football a powerhouse, at least in this region. Malaysia Boleh.
adidas unveils official match ball for FIFA World Cup adidas, official sponsor and partner for 2010 FIFA World Cup™, celebrated the global unveiling of the World Cup 2010 ‘Official Match Ball’ concurrently with the draw event in Cape Town, South Africa. Malaysia celebrated the much-anticipated reveal of the Official Match Ball (OMB) alongside three other South East Asian cities – Singapore (Vivo City) Indonesia (Jakarta) and Thailand (Bangkok). The launch party hosted by adidas was held at Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur and also debuted the latest the federation home kits for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ along with the official World Cup Zones across South East Asia. The World Cup Zones in Malaysia was open to the public on Dec 5.
“In Cape Town, adidas and FIFA presented the official match ball for the FIFA World Cup 2010. Concurrent with this at approximately 1:00am in Malaysia on the Dec 5 2009, we unveiled a giant 200kg replica of the official match ball for the first time ever to fans in the region,” said Marcus Chew, Senior Brand Manager, adidas South East Asia. “The official match ball is an iconic part of the World Cup and adidas has become synonymous with this highly-anticipated international event. The unveiling of the replica represents adidas’ strong belief that the fans form the backbone of the sport and we want to share the moment and celebration with them,” adds Marcus.
The “JABULANI” was created and designed by adidas specifically for the most important and celebrated event in the history of football. The “JABULANI” will only be used for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, which takes place in Cape Town, South Africa on the 11 June 2010.
Football is a passion that unites the world
The name “JABULANI” originates from the Bantu language which is in isiZulu, one of the eleven official languages of the Republic of South Africa. Literally translated, “JABULANI” means “to celebrate”. The name of the new match ball appropriately pays tribute to the passionate football celebration international.
Hanoi and Jakarta have been chosen as the two cities which will host the group stage of the Asean Football Championship at the end of 2010. Following the success of the AFF Suzuki Cup last year, the Asean Football Federation (AFF) felt that the reception at the My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi and Stadion Gelora Bung Gelora in Jakarta was outstanding and will be worthy hosts. For the record in 2008, the two host cities were Phuket in Thailand and Jakarta in Indonesia. The success of the AFF Suzuki Cup in 2008 saw viewership of more than 500 million. In part, this excitement was generated by the fact Vietnam won the biennial championship for the first time ever when they beat Thailand in the twolegged final. For Vietnam head coach Henrique Calisto, winning the AFF Suzuki Cup made him an overnight celebrity in the football-crazy nation and where he has been well-decorated by the Vietnamese government,who are trying to persuade Calisto to stay on as head coach. “Now is not the time to talk about contracts,” said Calisto. “There will be plenty of time after the SEA Games in Laos.” The Asean Football Championship began in 1996 with Thailand winning the inaugural edition.They also won in 2000 and 2002 while Singapore triumphed in 1998, 2004 and 2006. Former Malaysian head coach B. Sathianathan said that the Asean Football Championship has managed to create a competitive atmosphere among the national teams. “I believe that the Asean Football Championships have had a very strong impact in the region since the first year of the championship in 1996,” said Sathianathan, who is now with Malaysian Super League side Kelantan. “I think that it is because of their desire of wanting to do well at the Asean Football Championships that Singapore have adopted a polity of naturalising players.” Prior to the Asean Football Championships, there were only a handful of countries like Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia with full professional leagues. Now, the V-League in Vietnam is one of the more aggressive in the region with their Binh Duong Club making the semi-finals of the AFC Cup 2009. The Indonesian and Thai leagues have been revamped with millions being pumped while Myanmar, Cambodia and Brunei – although they were banned by FIFA - have already started their professional leagues in these few years.
MS3.news
month of january 2010
GP2 ASIA
FORMULA BMW PACIFIC
MeritusGP.com confident of more podiums in Abu Dhabi Fresh from netting eight points in the season opening GP2 Asia race in November, Asia’s MalaysiaQIMeritusGP.com is confident of being on the podium for both races in the second round, which will be held at the same venue in February. Italian Luca Filippi and Brazilian Diego Nunes had different results for their first GP2 Asia race weekend at the Yas Marina circuit with Filippi capitalising on his positive qualifying result to finish second for the Malaysian motorsport ambassadors. Nunes was less fortunate as his car’s drive shaft broke in the early stages. Team president Peter Thompson was delighted with the team’s positive start as Filiippi’s second place finish in the main race is Meritus’ best ever start to the GP2 Asia season. Last season Earl Bamber also finished second in the opening round which was held in China but that was in the sprint race which was only worth six points. “It was a fantastic result and one which I am confident we will be able to build on in the coming races,” said Thompson. “We have stated that our goal is to win the championship this season and I’m confident we are on track to delivering that promise.” Filippi commented: “I would have liked to do better, both for me and for the team. I had a good start and think that we have a car for the podium in future races.” Nunes said: “On the positive side, I stayed out of trouble and finished the second race in good position. There is still a lot of work to do in the future.”
GP2 ASIA Championship Points Tables after Round 1 Team (Top five) 1. iSport International 23, 2. Supernova Racing 14, 3. Dams 9, 4. MalaysiaQi-MeritusGP.com 8, 5. Ocean Racing Technology 7 Drivers (Top five) 1. Davide Valsecchi (iSport International) 19, 2. Christian Vietoris (Dams) 9, 3. Luca Filippi (MalaysiaQi-MeritusGP.com) 8, 4. Josef Kral (Super Nova) 8, 5. Alexander Rossi (Ocean Racing Technology) 7
Luca Filippi
Firhat eyes more success Firhat Mokhzani is no stranger to success. The owner of MeritusGP, Asia’s most successful motorsports team, has been behind every one of the team’s 34 international titles in the past 13 years, but even he took some time to savour the latest two crowns in MeritusGP’s trophy cabinet. On a bleak and gloomy rainy day at the Okayama International Circuit in Japan, in November,, the future of Questnet Team QiMeritusGP shone brightly as they clinched their seventh consecutive Formula BMW Pacific team title while 16-year-old Rio Haryanto won the driver’s crown. It was brilliant achievement for the Malaysian team as many had doubted their strategy of going for two young drivers would pay off. “This year’s victory is probably the sweetest of all as not many expected MerituGP to continue its winning tradition,” said a delighted Firhat. “We knew it would be a big risk fielding drivers who are only 14 and 16 but we could see their talent right from day one. “It was a tremendous team effort and I must congratulate the 100 per cent Malaysian crew, who proved once again that they are the best in the business.” Firhat said Rio actually surpassed his expectations and showed just what he is capable of when he gave the Formula BMW Europe and Americas drivers a run for their money. As for Dustin, Firhat said: “Dustin actually did quite a good job as he scored points in 13 of the 14 races. People forget he is still very young and I’m more than happy with his contribution to the team. I believe he will become an even better driver next year, after having a season under his belt.” Rio is the sixth MeritusGP racer to win the drivers’ title. FORMULA BMW PACIFIC End of season Championship Points Tables Teams 1. Questnet Team Qi-Meritus, 367 points; 2. E-Rain Racing, 294.75 points; 3. Eurasia Motorsport, 173.5 points; 4. Team Holzer PFX, 172.5 points; 5. Atlantic Racing Team, 172.5 points; 6. Ao’s Racing Team, 78 points; 7. Motaworld Racing, 6 points; Asia Racing Team, 6 points. Drivers (Top10) 1. Rio Haryanto (INA/Questnet Team Qi-Meritus) 250 points; 2. Gary Thompson (IRL/E-Rain Racing) 180 points; 3. Axcil Jefferies (ZIM/Eurasia Motorsport) 163 points; 4. Fahmi Ilyas (MAS/E-Rain Racing) 102 points; 5. Dustin Sofyan (INA/Questnet Team Qi-Meritus) 89 points; 6. Akhil Khushlani (IND/E-Rain Racing) 82 points; 7. Chris Wootton (AUS/Eurasia Motorsport) 78.5 points; 8. Calvin Wong (MAS/ Team Holzer PFX) 69 points; 9. Dominic Ang (MAS/ Team Holzer PFX) 46 points; 10. Steel Guiliana (AUS/ Atlantic Racing Team) 35 points; Rookie Cup (Top five) 1. Thompson, 180 points; 2.Jefferies, 163 points; 3. Ilyas, 102 points, 4. Sofyan, 89 points; 5. Wong, 69 points
FORMULA 1
Schumacher returns Seven-time Formula 1 champion Michael Schumacher will return to Formula 1 next season with the Petronas-sponsored Mercedes GP team. The German who retired in 2006, will hope to follow in the footsteps of Niki Lauda who retired in 1979, returned in 1982 and then won
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a third world title in 1984. But whether the 41-year-old German will stick around for more than his one-season contract remains to be seen. However, he will be glad to be reunited with Mercedes’ Ross Brawn, the man who masterminded all seven of his world
championship wins. “I felt tired by the end of 2006,” Schumacher told the media. “But three years away gave me my energy back. I have played about on motorbikes and enjoyed myself, but now I want to get back to some serious stuff.”
There are some who question his sanity in returning. At 40, and with $840 million in the bank, he does not need the money. So, why risk damaging his legendary status and his health? But Schumacher says he is a genuine title chance. “The team (when still called
Brawn) won both championships this year and we have Mercedes as a strong partner,” Schumacher said. “Our aim can only be to fight for this championship. To come back and win the title will certainly be a unique experience and a unique achievement.”