bizgolf August 2018 by GEC MEDIA GROUP

AUGUST 2018

18 H LES AT KATAMEYA DUNES

BGGLOBAL082018

In a remarkable feat of engineering, the imagination of Sir Nick Faldo and technical excellence of Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley transformed a desert landscape into a lush green golfing oasis

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AUGUST 2018 VOLUME 01 ISSUE 11

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COVER STORY

18 Holes at Katameya Dunes

42 GEAR UP

Hit it on the screws! Every year

we witness equipment manufacturers unveiling latest offering that are designed to hit the ball farther,

GOLFSCAPES

VIETNAM

Vietnam is one of the world’s up-and-coming golf destinations. With its fascinating history, ancient culture, superb climate, and now its offering fantastic championship golf courses designed for the golfer on and off the course.

MORE GOLF

10 SOCIAL MEDIA

No better way to celebrate your big day

26 SPOTLIGHT

Golf 2.0 for Millennials

32 BIZGOLF LESSONS

Putt Those Balls In

OFF COURSE

Leica’s new limitededition Q camera

34 TEE TIME

KPMG TROPHY Hitaashee wins Hong Kong Junior Golf Championship

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BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 EDITOR’S NOTE

GEC Open 2018 begins! August marked the return of the much-awaited GEC Open global golf tournament. GEC Open Italy qualifier - the inaugural event of the 2018 amateur series was held at Pevero Golf Club in Costa Smeralda where over 130 golfers competed for the world final spots and two emerged victorious. Congratulations Bruno Frulani and Antonio Merli. You both are deserved champions and true ambassador of the sport. Next up in August are qualifying rounds in Abu Dhabi, Ghana and Turkey with Australia, Azerbaijan, Spain and more to follow in September. It sure promises to be an exciting second half of the year. In this issue, our cover story of the month features the Egypt’s Katameya Dunes golf course at The Westin Cairo Golf Resort and Spa. Katameya Dunes is an annual feature on the GEC Open 2018 global golf tour calendar. The Spotlight of the month talks about the findings of a report by 18 Birdies on Millennials and golf. Golfscapes features Vietnam as an off-beat golf tourism destination followed by a Special Feature on a unique sports science institute in India. Update yourself with newsworthy stories from the world of professional golf in Tee Time and do flip through the lifestyle page to make a statement off the course!

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BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 SOCIAL MEDIA

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CHAMPION GOLFER OF THE YEAR

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BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 COVER STORY

GEC OPEN VENUE OF THE MONTH

18 H LES AT KATAMEYA DUNES

BY: VINEET MANN

gypt is a world-famous tourist attraction. Plenty of people travel to Egypt annually and the numero uno destination on their checklist are the magnificent Pyramids of Giza. Then they move on to soak up the culture in Alexandria, go shopping in Cairo and hang out on the beach in Sharmel-Sheikh. One could not add golf to this list, not before 1997 when Katameya Heights, the course that started the modern boom of

golf tourism, was opened. Egypt has a long and rich golf tradition, going back all the way to 1882, when the first course in the country, Gezira Sporting Club, was founded. It was primarily used by the British at the time and in 1991 it was made public. Egypt, a unique country where the geographic diversity merges with a rich

historical and cultural heritage, is now emerging as one of the world’s great golfing destinations. Because of its majestic history, superb landscapes and heath land courses, the discriminating golfer has an abundance of treasures to explore. There are roughly 20 golf courses in Egypt, divided into these major areas: Cairo (East and West), the Red Sea Coast, Sinai, Luxor and the Mediterranean coast.

COVER STORY AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

Located in New Cairo – Egypt, Katameya Dunes is a new luxury retreat comprising of a 27-hole Sir Nick Faldo designed Golf Course configured into two championship golf courses - ‘Lakes’ and ‘Palms’. It is part of the Westin Cairo Golf Resort and Spa that also boasts of a state of the art Golf Academy. Katameya Dunes is an annual feature on GEC Open global golf tour and hosts GEC

Open Egypt national qualifying golf tournaments where two winners get a once-in-alifetime opportunity of representing their national colors at the GEC Open World Final – Dubai Corporate Golf World Cup. The resort is about 26 kms from Cairo International Airport which is connected by all major cities in the African and European continent. The Westin resort is a massive Starwood property with a capacity of 135

rooms and 19 suits. Nightly stays at the resort starts at a little over US$ 100 for a standard room to around US$ 2,000 for the presidential suite. The Westin Cairo resort offers a varied F&B experience with ‘Paloma’ the all-day dining restaurant designed with a deep inspiration of nature and its beauty, serving Mediterranean cuisine. The pool bar serves drinks and light snacks around the pool

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 COVER STORY

deck area.

Facilities Qualified Course caddies, Rental Equipment, Buggies and Trolleys. The Club house features fully stocked Golf Shop, Locker rooms, Spike Bar & Restaurant and Business center.

Around and about Katameya Dunes completes an outstanding ‘Cluster’ of golf courses in east Cairo with

two further championship facilities just 15 minutes away being as ‘Katameya heights Golf & Tennis Resort’ and ‘Mirage City Golf Club’. The region is further boosted by five star hotels such as JW Marriot Hotel and Dusit Thani Lake View Hotel. Katameya Dunes is also less than hour drive from one of Egypt’s impressive Red Sea Resorts, ‘El Ain Sukhna City’, which offers plenty of excursion opportunities. Guest can also enjoy the Pyramids and the Sphinx that are only 42 km away

Golf Academy The state of the art golf academy managed by PGA professionals, boasts the very latest in teaching equipment technology and is completed by the extensive practice facilities such as a double sided all grassed floodlit Driving Range. The year-round climate offers the ultimate training opportunity for golf pros and golf federations worldwide. Katameya Dunes boasts K-Vest Biomechanics software and analysis tools as well

COVER STORY AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

as Flightscope launch monitors and Sam Putting Labs on site

Fun Fact Egypt already hosts several events for up-and-coming professional golfers on the Pro Golf Tour and Alps Tour circuits, both of which are regional satellite tours of the European Tour’s Challenge Tour. And the country recently created its first home-grown tour, the Mediterranean Tour, which has a series of events exclusively in Egypt open to both professionals and elite amateurs.

The Golf Course In a remarkable feat of engineering, the imagination of Sir Nick Faldo and technical excellence of Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley transformed a barren, featureless desert landscape outside Cairo into a lush green golfing oasis, where palm-fringed fairways have been routed around a succession of lakes and streams, with the occasional waterfall feature thrown in for good measure. Bunkering – as you might expect at such a desert location – is of the highest order and even though the designers might have

been tempted to fill them with imported white sand, they’ve mercifully constructed the traps with local, pink-brown colored sand that blends in sympathetically to the surroundings. The spectacular water-fronted par three 8th, which measures 210 yards from the back tees, is considered as the signature hole on both the “Lakes” and “Palms” 18-hole configurations at Katameya Dunes, with both courses sharing the same front nine holes. The back nine featured below belongs to ‘Lakes’.

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 COVER STORY

Hole #1

Hole #2

Hole #3

Par 4 | 375 Yards (Championship Tees) A fairly straightforward hole. A solid drive favoring the right side of the fairway will open the green up to leave a short iron to the green. Bunkers on the left side protect this hole.

Par 4 | 340 Yards This hole might tempt one to aim for the green in one but be aware any shots leaking to the left will catch the first water on the golf course. If you are going to miss, make sure you miss to the right. Accuracy with the short iron is a must since bunkers guard the green heavily.

Par 5 | 590 Yards The first of the Par 5 comes with a generous route to the greens. Even for the long hitters, this is a three shot Par 5. Water running up the left side of the fairway demands a careful tee-shot followed by an accurate second shot. The green is surrounded by water and sand hazard.

Hole #7

Hole #8

Hole #9

Par 5 | 615 Yards A serious birdie opportunity. To take advantage of this hole, favor the left side of the fairway off the tee as the right side is heavily bunkered. Aggressive hitters can find the green in two should they miss the litter of bunkers defending this green.

Par 3 | 210 Yards A spectacularly picturesque hole. Enjoy but don’t get distracted by the beauty of the water- falls and plantation. The lake up the right side eats up its fair share of golf balls.

Par 4 | 455 Yards This hole was voted by the tour players as their favorite hole on the golf course. It requires is a very accurate tee shot, as water flows on the right side. Even shots that find this luxurious fairway will still find the second shot very taxing. Water left and back of the green shields this green with a cluster of bunkers on the right, does make life harder. Laying up short of the green may be the best option but a Par on this hole is a great score.

Hole #13

Par 4 | 400 Yards The semi-circle of bunkers gives an illusion of a hole appearing closer. A good tee shot will leave a mid-iron shot to the putting surface. Any shots missing left will be in the desert.

Hole #14

Par 4 | 320 Yards This exquisitely designed green surrounded by the cool water of the Nile has unnerved many top players. The courage of the famous Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II is needed to face the task of winning the battle of this magnificent golf hole.

Hole #15

Par 4 | 425 Yards Keep to the right and avoid a ‘visit’ to the large bunker on the left. An elevated green makes the second shot that bit trickier. Hit an extra club as any ball that’s comes up short will come back to your feet.

COVER STORY AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

Hole #4

Hole #5

Hole #6

Par 4 | 460 Yards. The ones with the ‘Sir Faldo’ bunker. This hole presents a birdie opportunity for the big hitters. Water protects the right side of the fairway and bunkers to the left guard this slightly elevated green.

Par 4 | 410 Yards Many hazards with water on the right and a large bunker on the left makes this tee shot daunting. The back-pin position may invite to attack the pin but there are several hazards lurking should the green be missed.

Par 3 | 250 Yards The first Par 3 on the golf course is difficult and lengthy opening short hole. The real challenge is the green due to the undulating slopes. A two putt is fair game.

Hole #10 Par 4 | 495 Yards Meandering around the lake to the tee, wide alluring fairway greets the players. A long, long Par 4. But there is a generous run up area to the green so balls can find this large green with a little effort. Favor the right side when approaching this green as danger lurks the opposite side.

Hole #16

Par 3 | 230 Yards The final Par 3. From this elevated tee box, take care of the water protecting the left side and bunkers protecting any shots that come up short. Golfer can attack this pin with the reassurance that the green will feed the ball back to the correct destination.

Hole #11

Par 5 | 595 Yards The best eagle opportunity on the course. From this elevated tee box, you can let the big dog eat and your ball will most likely land in a good position on the fairway. Lots of room. The green can be made in two with a long iron. There is lots of room left should the golfer decide to lay up.

Hole #17

Par 4 | 465 Yards One of the most difficult holes on the golf course, a severe dogleg right hole. The players must find the fairway to have any change of making this green in two. To ‘find’ the fairway the player must be committed and strike through as the tee shot is all uphill so a good strike is needed. The lavish green awaits a long iron shot; any misses that occur should be short or left as bunkers pepper the right side of the green.

Hole #12

Par 3 | 175 Yards This large protected green is surrounded by water and bunkers and accuracy is the key. The first hole-inone in the course’s history was made on this hole.

Hole #18

Par 5 | 625 yards The big hitter has the opportunity to finish with an eagle by going for the green in two. Good course management skills are needed for this hole as water lurks all up the right side to the green.

VIETN

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 GOLFSCAPES

TNAM GOLFSCAPES

A land of staggering natural beauty and cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities and hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is both exotic and compelling. You can choose to gaze over a surreal seascape of limestone islands from the deck of a traditional junk in Halong Bay or you may explore the world’s most spectacular cave systems in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Or you can just golf. There are 35 golf courses operating in Vietnam, with another 65 projects at some stage of development, planning, and construction. A trio of legendary design collides with

deserted beachfront green sites on Vietnam’s famed Central Coast. At the centre of the destination is golf in Danang with over 34 miles of sprawling white sand beaches north and south of the city as far as the eye can see. Here you have the chance to play golf on five of the finest signature golf courses in Vietnam!

Package Vietnam Golf Getaway Duration: 8N/9D | 5 golf rounds Price starts from US$ 1320 per person

AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

Details:

Enjoy Complimentary golf rounds at:

Danang: 1. Montgomerie Links | 1 round 2. Laguna Lang Co Golf Resort (Nick Faldo course) | 1 round 3. Danang Golf Club (Greg Norman course) | 1 round

Saigon: 1. Vietnam Golf & Country Club | 1 round 2. Long Thanh Golf Club | 1 round

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 GOLFSCAPES

GASTRONOMY

Da Nang restaurants range from decades-old local joints, roadside stalls and street markets to expat-owned eateries, beachfront cafes, and refined establishments set within luxurious beach resorts. Here are a few you must try:

La Maison 1888 La Maison 1888 captures the essence of haute French dining, with the distinct gourmet experience of delectable à la carte menu of distinguished classic French cuisine in Danang. Being the first restaurant in Vietnam that features a Michelin-starred chef and after three successful years working with Michel Roux, La Maison 1888 is now home to the world-renowned three Michelinstarred chef Pierre Gagnaire.

Quan Com Hue Ngon Quan Com Hue Ngon is a local establishment that’s a five-minute walk from Da Nang Cathedral, serving an array of authentic Vietnamese BBQ dishes at affordable prices. The fussfree restaurant is fitted with minimal décor, low wooden furnishing, and ceiling fans, but the service here is very fast and friendly.

Lam Vien Restaurant Lam Vien Restaurant occupies a two-storey bungalow that overlooks a serene pond and plenty of greenery, making it a popular option for intimate dinners with loved ones. Expect traditional Vietnamese and panAsian delicacies such as spring rolls, abalone with crabmeat soup, stir-fried bok choy with oyster sauce, fried beef luc lac (Vietnamese shaking beef), and fried lobster with orange sauce.

GOLFSCAPES

AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

SAIGON

Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City is blessed with fantastic restaurants serving a combination of French, Chinese, and, of course, local Vietnamese cuisine. It is this confluence of food cultures that has made Vietnamese food famed around the world, and brings visitors flocking to sample Saigon’s many fabulous restaurants.

Quan An Ngon A beautiful design scheme like something out of an exotic fairytale and a range of cooking stations preparing specialties from all over Vietnam keep Quan An Ngon packed out every evening with foreigners and well-dressed locals. This is the perfect place to try legendary Vietnamese dishes such as fresh spring rolls, Hue noodles and black pepper crab.

Tram’s Cookery Restaurant & Bar Tram’s Cookery Restaurant & Bar is an upscale place, set next to the Saigon River, where you can enjoy traditional Vietnamese and western cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere or just have some drinks in tranquility. Either by speedboat or taxi it will respectively take roughly 20 or 35 minutes to get there from the city centre.

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BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 GOLFSCAPES

GOLF COURSES Montgomerie Links Golf Course Holes 18 | Par 72 | length 7090 yds Designer: Colin Montgomerie

Established in 2008, the Montgomerie Links is located just off historical Danang Beach and minutes from the Danang city. Moving boldly over a striking landscape of wispy casuarinas, pines and sand dunes the Montgomerie links gives golfers the feeling of being in Ireland or Scotland without the cold temperatures of the British Isles! The first golf course in central Vietnam, it takes advantage of its close proximity to both the Vietnam east sea and the marble mountains; the later are visible from many points on the course.

Laguna Lang Co Golf Resort Holes 18 | Par 71 | Length 7100 yds Designer: Nick Faldo

Laguna Lang co golf club in central Vietnam near Lang Co Bay and a 3-kilometer beach in the chanmay region of central Vietnam, an area renowned for its pristine coastline, natural scenery and proximity to UNESCO world heritage sites. The site is located between the ancient city of Hue 30 kilometers to the north and Danang 35 kilometers to the south.

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Danang Golf Club Holes 18 | Par 72 | Length 7160 yds Designer: Greg Norman

Located just 17 kilometers from the center of Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam golf & country club is one the nearest golf clubs to the city centre. Vietnam golf & country club is set amongst 300 hectares of land and is comprised of two championship golf courses. Both courses have been carved out of existing woodlands with minimal land movement. Golfers at Vietnam golf & country club get the feeling that the land was destined to be a golf course, so natural is the lay-out and design.

The Dunes course is built on the sandy loam soil of Danang beach, a place where history is revered as much as golf. The Vietnam golf club is located directly on the beach that the American’s used for their first landing and adjacent to the American’s main supply depot and airfield used during the conflict of the 1960’s. Here, along Vietnam’s golf coast and amid a seaside landscape almost identical to what the world’s first courses were carved from, an experience was crafted as much by mother nature as it was by the legendary great white shark, Greg Norman. In other words, it’s links-style golf in the truest sense of the term.

Vietnam Golf & Country Club Holes 18x2 | Par 72x2 Designer: Chen King Shih / Lee Trevino

The long Thanh Golf Club Holes 18x2 | Par 72x2 | Length 7011/ 7056 yds Designer: Ronald Fream

AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

The Long Thanh golf club offers 36 holes of golf in the former rice paddies and scenic countryside surrounding Saigon. It is located 30 kilometers north of the city on a hilly with unobstructed views back towards the Vietnamese capital. Both the hill and lake course are well maintained throughout the year and the golf courses are a longtime favorite among locals. Many expatriates and Vietnam golf visitors prefer Long Thanh golf club over its more famous neighbor Vietnam golf & country club.

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 GOLFSCAPES

Accommodation

Five-night stay at Brilliant Hotel including breakfast. Centrally located in Danang City, the 4-star Brilliant Hotel offers panoramic views of the Han River. Three nights Paragon Saigon Hotel. including breakfast. The package includes Vietnam domestic flight – Danang to Saigon and return private airport and golf course transfers.

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BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 SPOTLIGHT

Golf 2.0 for Millennials “We all know that participation in golf has been waning over the last few years,” said Eddy Lui, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of 18Birdies. “What this study proves, however, is that there is a great opportunity for the industry to grow the game through technology and gamification, especially with today’s younger generation, who are going to be essential for growing the sport.” A mobile golf technology start-up, 18Birdies, has unveiled findings from a KRC Research commissioned study* about the current state of golf participation. The results revealed tremendous opportunities to attract non-golfers and Millennials/Generation Z to the game through mobile technology and unconventional play.

TECHNOLOGY USAGE

Leveraging mobile technology would grow the game with golfers and non-golfers. A majority of respondents stated they would welcome mobile technology to assist them throughout their round:

61% of golfers would play more if their smartphone had an app that keeps score. This is even higher among younger golfers.

63% of non-golfers are more likely to play with the help of smartphones

61% Non-Golfers

4/10 67%

63%

86% of golfers confess to missing a shot because they didn’t know the distance to the hole and would benefit from technology that could track distances

86%

94% of millennials and 78% of Gen Z-ers say they would play more with a smartphone app

94%

non-golfers are interested in learning and playing

67% of millennials and 73% of Gen Z non-golfers stated they want to learn to play

SOCIALIZE BETTING AND SIDE GAMES Golfers and non-golfers, particularly among younger generations, look for ways to make the game fun:

87%

of millennial golfers are interested in playing more if they could bet with others

56%

of golfers and 46% of millennial golfers play side games on the course

61%

of golfers and 69% of non-golfers would play more golf if they could play side games on the course

The social nature of golf is a strong characteristic and can lead to more participation. Golfers and non-golfers agree that golf is a good way to meet new people and network:

of millennials and 83% of Gen Z-ers would be more likely to play if they had a friend to take them

92% of golfers and 83% of non-golfers agree that golf is a good way to network and conduct business

90% of golfers and 81% of non-golfers agree that golf is a good way to meet people

SPOTLIGHT AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

WHAT ELSE?

Other factors that would lead non-golfers to play include larger cups, being able to tee up every shot and night golf:

72% 69% 63%

72% of non-golfers would play if they could use a 15-inch hole; the number is higher with millennials at 82%

69% of non-golfers would play if they could tee up every shot; the number rises to 82% with millennials

63% of non-golfers would be more likely to play if they had access to night golf; with millennials, the number rises to 74%

RE-FORMAT Different formats of tournaments and game play would lead to increased participation. Additional ways to play the game are very intriguing to golfers and non-golfers:

80%

80% of golfers and 69% of non-golfers would play more if there were more opportunities to play scramble formats; 80% of millennial non-golfers would also play more with scramble formats

73%

Shorter rounds will increase frequency of play and attract new golfers: 73% of golfers and 84% of non-golfers want to play shorter rounds (three, six, or nine holes); 95% of millennial golfers and 91% of millennial non-golfers would also play more with shorter rounds.

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018

SPECIAL FEATURE

A Centre for Sports Science A

thletes require holistic and scientific training in order to perform at optimum levels, prevent injuries and compete against the best in the world. Traditionally, India has not been known for

sports science and the availability of such facilities in the development of athletes. However, a collaboration between Sri Ramachandra University and the University of Cape Town led to the establishment of

the Centre for Sports Science (CSS), housed in the sprawling Sri Ramachandra Medical College campus in Chennai. Established in 2014 the center is the brainchild of Prof. S.Arumugam a specialist in both

SPECIAL FEATURE AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

What’s on offer? High Performance Centre for fitness & endurance n Exercise Physiology Labs n High Altitude Chamber n Bio Mechanics Assessment n Injury prevention & rehabilitation n Sports Medicine & Education n Sports nutrition n Sports Psychologists n Arthroscopy n 100 air conditioned rooms for athletes to stay at nominal rates n multi-cuisine restaurants n SportsCafe for customized diets n

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018

SPECIAL FEATURE

For Golfers Golfers can avail golf specific Assessments, Fitness Training, consultation with various specialists including sports medicine, sports nutrition, sports psychology, sports biomechanics and sports podiatry. A Comprehensive assessment takes 2 days to would cost around Rs. 30,000 and varies with additional components like Biomechanics assessment.

needs as we send more athletes to the Olympics and witness more success at the world stage. Golfers can benefit tremendously from this facility and we urge you pay a visit when you are in Chennai next!

medicine and surgery with American Board Diplomate in Internal Medicine and M.S in Orthopedics along with an Honorary fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons, Glasgow. Spread over 1.6 lakh sq. ft. the facility provides the ideal setting for a sportsperson or a team’s holistic needs. This is one of Asia’s best and most comprehensive athlete training and rehabilitation centers. Over 30 specialists from India and abroad work closely and monitor an athlete’s performance and training needs.

Packed with the latest training and sports equipment, one of the highlights of this facility is its biomechanics lab which can be compared to the best in the world. It houses the most advanced technological equipment using systems like infra-red markers, isokinetic testing & training and video & game analysis rooms to capture a player’s motion. This can be studied for a multitude of benefits such as injury prediction, prevention & management and optimization of a sportsperson’s action. This little-known gem is just what India

Who has benefited from this facility? CSS works with the BCCI, International Cricket Council, Sports Authority of India, Sports Development Authority of Tamilnadu, Olympic Gold Quest, GoSports to name a few in India. Additionally, cricketers from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and other top cricketers of India have been regularly visiting CSS for assessments, treatments, Rehab and Training. Apart from this, individual athletes like Mr. Sharath Kamal, TT player and an Olympian also visit CSS for availing these services.

MOVIE REVIEW AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

Not To Be

Missed

The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005) PG | 2h | Biography, Drama, History Director: Bill Paxton Writers: Mark Frost (book), Mark Frost (screenplay) Stars: Shia LaBeouf, Stephen Dillane, Elias Koteas

This masterpiece is based on the real-life careers of two brilliant golf champions -- British Harry Vardon (Stephen Dillane) and American Francis Ouimet (Shia LaBeouf). it’s a rousing, true underdog story about a poor, young American caddy Francis Ouimet who, in 1913, at a time when golf was a rich man’s hobby played solely on exclusive private courses, stunned the genteel golf world and the nation with his performance in the US Open against the best amateur and professional player of dominant Britain and America including Harry Vardon. Harry learns to caddy and play, becoming an international champion, but not allowed to be an official member of the club he represents. Similarly, Francis, who works as a caddy and then as a clerk in a sports gear store, becomes so good at golf that he eventually enters the 1913 U.S. Open where he’s competing against his idol, Harry Vardon, as well as Harry’s buddy, the large-bodied, cigar-chomping Ted Ray (Stephen Marcus). Francis’s amazing story helped democratize the game, raising general interest and leading to the institution of public courses. It’s a story of honor, courage and friendship, in which the noblest stroke is made not with a club, but with a word, as when Francis stands up for pudgy little Eddie Lowry, who has lugged his clubs around for the first two days of the Open — long enough for Francis to prove his worth to the American hosts, but also long enough for Eddie to prove his worth to Francis. Or when Ouimet’s opponent Vardon stands up for Francis himself, snapping to Lord Northcliffe, “If Mr. Ouimet wins tomorrow, it’s because he’s the best, because of who he is — not because of all the money he’s got. I’d thank you to remember that. There’s a respect a gentleman gives as a matter of course.”

BIZGOLF JULY 2018

BIZGOLF LESSONS

Putt Those Balls In Ben Sayers once said, “A good player who is a great putter is a match for any golfer. A great hitter who cannot putt is a match for no one.” Most golfers don’t appreciate just how many shots they are throwing away with their putter. If you want to better your scores on the golf course and lower your handicap as quickly as possible – improve your putting. Follow these steps the next time you hit the green.

STEP

STEP 3

STEP

Putting Alignment

Putting Stance

Mind your eyes

Start by aiming the putter face at your initial target and then build your stance around the putter’s position – rather than trying to line your stance up first and then aiming the putter face. The line of feet should aim parallel left of the hole for the right-handed golfer and vice versa. Alignment is not just about your feet. Your feet act as a line for your knees, hips and shoulders to follow. Pay particular attention to the line of your shoulders.

The width of your stance should be roughly hipwidth with the feet pointing forward. The golf ball should be positioned slightly ahead of the center of your stance. As you rest the putter on the ground, position your hands so that the grip of the putter points towards your left hip, just left of your belt buckle (for the right-handed golfer). Your hands should be slightly ahead of the golf ball. Your hands and arms should hang down in a relaxed, neutral position.

Your eyes should be positioned directly over the golf ball. A great way to check this is to set up to a putt as normal, hold another golf ball in your left eye socket and let it drop. It should hit the ball on the ground.

BIZGOLF LESSONS

Reading the Greens l Start assessing a green from a distance as you walk up to it from your approach shot. Get a feel for the general lie of the land – notice where the major slopes are, if there are any ponds or drainage run off areas etc. l Getting down low to the ground, behind the golf ball will give you a better perspective to judge the severity and number of breaks facing your putt. l Try to walk the length of your putt and take a look from behind

AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

the hole. Viewing the putt from various angles will give you a much more accurate impression of what’s going to happen. l Pay particular attention to the second half of the putt. Any slopes or break here will have a much greater influence on the ball because it will have slowed down considerably. l Most handicap golfers under-read big breaking putts by about half. In other words, they’ll only hit the ball half as high up the slope as they need to. So, when lining up your putt, pick a target that you believe is at the top of the slope or break and focus on hitting your putt to that target.

STEP Putting Stroke

STEP Grip the Club right Begin by gripping the putter in the same way you would grip a normal club. This will place your right and left hand in neutral positions on the club. Next, unlink your fingers at the back – so your hands sit on top of each other like a baseball grip. Now take your right index finger and place it down the shaft of the club. Then ‘unpeel’ your left index finger and run that over the fingernails of your right hand – pointing down the shaft of the club. In effect, your index fingers work as mini splints to prevent wrist break.

The putting stroke is dominated by the shoulders. A rocking of the shoulders moves the arms and hands together in one unit. The wrists stay solid. Your lower half (hips, legs and feet) should stay completely still throughout the putting stroke. Your weight should remain 50/50 on both feet during the entire movement. The length of your backswing should be the same as the length of your follow through. The rhythm of your putting stroke should always stay the same. The putter head should travel in a straight line back and a straight line through to the target. See this drill to help you with that. Focus on keeping the putter face perfectly square (at right angles) to your target line as you make your stroke.

STEP Distance Control Most of us are fairly solid within 3 feet of the hole. So ideally aim 18 inches past the hole – that gives the putt a chance to drop if you happen to get the line right. As you go through your routine and set up, keep your focus on a point 18 inches beyond the hole. Make a series of practice strokes, rocking the putter back and forth whilst looking at your target. Feel as though you are hitting imaginary putts to your target and whether your length of practice stroke is too short, too long or about right.

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 TEE TIME

JUNIOR GOLF

Hitaashee wins Hong Kong Junior Golf Championship Junior golfer Hitaashee Bakshi emerged victorious in under 13-14 years age category, while compatriots Kartik Sharma and Sunhit Bishnoi finished second and third respectively in the 15-17 category at the Hong Kong Junior Golf Championship. The championship held at Discovery Bay Golf Club saw

participation from about 60 juniors from eight countries. Six juniors from DLF Golf Academy Nurturing Excellence Programme participated in this year’s championship. “The tournament has been a great experience for all us and I am thankful to our coaches and staff at DLF Golf academy

who have guided us through the competition and helped us improve our game. I wish to learn and work on my skills and hopefully repeat such performances in the future,” Hitaashee said. Earlier this year in March, Kartik had attained the No. 1 amateur ranking in the country,

while Bishnoi is currently the No. 1 junior golfer in the country. “DLF Golf Excellence Program has helped me hone my skills and improve as a player. It is through their encouragement and support that we have done so well in the tournament,” Kartik said.

ASIAN TOUR

Madappa secures victory at the TAKE Solutions Masters Young talent Viraj Madappa delighted the home crowd when he closed with a four-under-par 67 to claim a two-shot victory for his maiden Asian Tour title at the TAKE Solutions Masters, held recently in Bengaluru. Madappa, who came through the Asian Tour Qualifying School in January,

became the record youngest Indian, at the age of 20 years and nine months, to win on the Asian Tour following his breakthrough at the Karnataka Golf Association (KGA) Golf Course. Madappa is also the first rookie and youngest player to win on Tour this season. He took home a winner’s

prize purse of US$63,000 and earned a one-year winner exemption. Starting the final round two shots back, Madappa reeled in six pars before dropping a shot on the seventh. He bounced back brilliantly with five birdies to cap a winning total of 16-under-par 268 at the US$350,000 Asian Tour event.

TEE TIME AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

Koepka beats back challengers, wins 100th PGA Championship

THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Brooks Koepka completed a double-dip at the 100th PGA Championship. With his win at the 2018 PGA Championship, Koepka is the first golfer since Jordan Spieth in 2015 to win two majors in one year. Koepka started off ahead of 10 players within four shots off the lead. Tiger Woods created roars, defending champion Justin Thomas challenged and Adam Scott pulled even. But Koepka held off all challengers at Bellerive Country Club. With his 264, Koepka set the record for the lowest 72-hole score in a PGA Championship. David Toms had the record with his 265 in 2001. Koepka has now won three of the last six majors he’s started, with the PGA Championship win joining his consecutive wins at the U.S. Open. Of his four PGA Tour wins, three are majors. His other win was at the 2015 Waste Management Open. Even with Tiger and Scott pushing Koepka, the 28-year-old didn’t falter. He went 33 on the front 9 and then holed pars five holes in a row. With the solo lead no longer his when Scott birdied No. 13, Koepka answered with birdies of his own on the 15th and 16th to regain the solo lead for good. Koepka is the fifth player in history to win the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship in the same year: n Gene Sarazen, 1922 n Ben Hogan, 1948 n Jack Nicklaus, 1980 n Tiger Woods, 2000 n Brooks Koepka, 2018

Italy’s Francesco Molinari wins the British Open Francesco Molinari said it would take some time for the achievement of winning the British Open to sink in as he gripped the Claret Jug following his remarkable victory at Carnoustie. Molinari made history by becoming Italy’s first ever major winner

and admitted he would probably need to change his flight home so he can celebrate becoming the first player from the country to win a major. Molinari outshone reigning champion Jordan Spieth, a revived Tiger Woods and the rest of the field as he shot a flawless round of 69 to finish on eight under par around the Scottish links and win the title by two shots. “I have a holiday plan for next week somewhere nice with the family. So hopefully, we can still make the holiday and just relax for a few days.” When asked to sum up his feelings, he added: “Just disbelief, to be honest. It’s amazing to stand here with the Claret Jug. “I knew I was coming in with some good golf. My record around here was terrible. So that didn’t make me too optimistic about the week, but I just tried to not think about it and focus on hitting good shots day by day.” After sitting on level-par at the halfway stage, Molinari shot a bogey-free six-underpar round of 65 in the third round to sit just three shots off the lead overnight. Another clean round allowed him to make the most of slip-ups from his rivals, including his playing partner Woods. “To go the weekend bogey free, it’s unthinkable, to be honest. So very proud of today.”

ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR

Leong seals wire to wire victory on home soil at PGM Sabah Championship Malaysia’s Ben Leong completed a wire-to-wire victory on home soil after closing with a three-underpar 69 to win by three shots for his second Asian Development Tour (ADT) title at the PGM Sabah Championship held in Malaysia recently. The 32-year-old Sabahan, who started the round with a two-shot edge, dropped a shot on the par-five second hole but recovered brilliantly with four birdies on his way home to cap a winning total of 11-under-par 277 at the Sabah Golf and Country Club. American rookie Sam Gillis returned with a 69 to take second place on his own, marking his best finish so far in his first season on the region’s secondary circuit at the

RM225,000 (approximately US$58,000) ADT event. Japan’s Shinichi Mizuno closed with three straight birdies for a 72 to grab a share of third place on 283 alongside American Greg Moss, who posted a 67. Finland’s Janne Kaske settled a further two shots back in fifth following a 67. “I didn’t feel much pressure at all. I was just focused on my game and wasn’t even concerned about what was happening on the leader board. It’s definitely sweeter to have a win on home ground with my wife watching me and my father supporting me on the bag,” said Leong.

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 TEE TIME

ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR

Gangjee claims the Louis Philippe Cup with stunning 63 Rahil Gangjee continued his impressive form in 2018 after winning the Louis Philippe Cup with a stunning final round seven-under-par 63. The bubbly Indian equalled the low round of the week to seal the title by three shots with a winning total of 11-under-par 269 at the Asian Development Tour (ADT) event. It was his second win following his victory on the Asian Tour in April. Overnight co-leader Rashid Khan and Om Prakash Chouhan settled for tied second place following rounds of 71 and 66 respectively at the Prestige Golfshire Club while Marcus Both (67) of Australia and Udayan Mane (72) finished a further shot back on 273. Gangjee got off to a hot start with three straight birdies before marking his card with four more birdies. He dropped a single shot on 16 but enjoyed a grandstand finish when he

birdied the last hole to romp to victory. “It feels awesome. Today was a dream come true kind of round. I hit everything good and every putt fell. When I got to about nine or 10-under I started to get excited but I told myself to stay calm just like what I did when I won in Japan. The experience of winning earlier in the year did help,” said the Indian, who won US$13,125. Gangjee is enjoying a superb season following a stressful 2017 where he had to fight tooth-and-nail to keep his Tour card. He eventually claimed the second last card on offer after finishing in 60th place on the 2017 Asian Tour Order of Merit.The win in April was a huge confidence booster for Gangjee as he ended a 14-year title drought on the Asian Tour while the latest win will give him an extra spring in his step heading into business-end of the year.

ASIAN TOUR

Bhullar takes home the Fiji International title Ace Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar withstood the intense pressure by producing one of the best shots of the week on the 17th hole which would eventually seal his ninth Asian Tour win at the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways. Bhullar hit his approach shot straight onto the green on 18 and left his birdie putt just short of the hole. An easy tap-in for par for a winning total of 14-under-par 274 would soon confirm the 30-year-old as the newest winner of the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways. Australia’s Anthony Quayle, who started the day two shots back of Bhullar, surmounted a late challenge when he stormed home with three birdies and two eagles in his back-nine. However, it was still not enough to catch Bhullar on a day when the Indian showed great composure and mental courage. Major winner Ernie Els of South Africa also staged a late comeback by closing with a 65 to share third place with New Zealand’s Ben Campbell at the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways, which being tri-sanctioned by the Asian Tour European Tour and ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia again.

TEE TIME AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

RBC CANADIAN OPEN

All hail DJ: Johnson conquers RBC Canadian Open

World No. 1, Dustin Johnson has claimed yet another victory of the season at the RBC Canadian Open. He shot a 6-under 66 to finish the only Canadian stop on the PGA Tour at 23-under par. The world No. 1 tied for second in the Canadian Open at Glen Abbey Golf Course in 2013 and 2016. Mackenzie Hughes (68) of nearby Dundas, Ont., was the low Canadian, tying for eighth at 15 under overall.Byeong Hun An (69) and Whee Kim (69) finished as runners up at 20-under in the US$6.2 million event, with Keegan Bradley (64) placing fourth at 19-under. A Canadian has not won the national title since Victoria’s Pat Fletcher accomplished the feat in 1954. Johnson entered the day in a four-way tie for the lead with Kim, Hun An and Kevin Tway but had seven birdies and a bogey to pull away from the group. A nearby lightning storm delayed play for an hour and 45 minutes and shrunk the massive crowd that usually trails Johnson from hole to hole. Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum thought Johnson’s victory was an appropriate sendoff for Glen Abbey. The Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course has been slated for redevelopment by ClubLink, the property’s owner. “This event has been one of our best ever,” said Applebaum. “Started at the front of the week with Triple Crown winner Lee Trevino showing up for the Hall of Fame, and then the field we had. DJ, four of the five U.S. Open combatants, Bubba Watson, and the great Canadian roster. “And then our world No. 1 showing his class, makes for a spectacular finish.” Hamilton Golf and Country Club will host the 2019 Canadian Open. It is also shifting forward in the PGA Tour’s schedule, moving to early June in the week before the U.S. Open.

PGA TOUR

Putnam clinches first TOUR win at Barracuda Championship Andrew Putnam grabbed his first PGA Tour victory on August 6 by winning the Barracuda Championship in Reno. Entering the day with a three-point lead at the event, which is played under the modified Stableford format, Putnam birdied two of his first four holes and scored nine points on the day to take him to 47, four clear of runner-up Chad Campbell. The format awards eight points for an albatross, five for eagle, two for birdie, zero for par, and subtracts a point for bogey and three for double-bogeys or worse. “Coming into this week I felt I had a good chance to possibly win,” Putnam told reporters. “I’ve been playing really well. (I’m) happy to get the win. This was an incredible week.” Putnam, playing in his second full season on the PGA Tour, had a pair of birdies on the back-nine to put the tournament away. The 29-year-old had a chance to claim his first win at the FedEx St. Jude Classic in June when he held a share of the 54-hole lead with world number one Dustin Johnson but eventually finished six shots behind. “I feel like there’s a lot to learn on the Tour. There’s a lot of growth that needs to happen, and I feel like I’ve just learned how to believe in myself a little more,” Putnam said. “That’s just been the main thing that’s helped me this year,” he added

BIZGOLF

AUGUST 2018 BUSINESS NEWS

ACQUISITION

GTE Partners acquires Global Turf Equipment Global Turf Equipment (GTE) – the world’s largest independent seller and exporter of pre-owned golf course equipment – and sister company Turf Equipment Rental, have been acquired by GTE Partners, LLC. Davis Sezna will now assume the role of chief executive officer, Will Sezna will be installed as president

and Walt McMahon will rise to the position of chief operating officer within the new organization. The prior co-owners of GTE and Turf Equipment Rental, CEO Jim Sartain and President Pat Yarbrough, will remain with the company as consultants. “We are pleased to announce the sale of Global Turf Equipment and Turf

Equipment Rental to GTE Partners, LLC, which is focused on expanding those companies across the United States,” says Jim Sartain, Chief Executive Officer of GTE. “Pat and I look forward to continuing on as consultants to make the transition as seamless as possible.” Davis Sezna brings nearly 40 years of experience and a

proven track record of success in both the golf and food service industries. He has led several companies including 1492 Hospitality Group and Tandem Hospitality, La Quinta Resort and PGA West, and The Cliffs Communities. Davis’ experience at these companies extended to restaurants, golf courses, private clubs, master planning and development.

APPOINTMENT

Troon selected to manage Oregon club Troon has been selected to manage Persimmon Country Club, a private club located just east of Portland in Gresham,

Oregon. Located in the shadows of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams, Persimmon Country Club will be managed

by Troon Privé, the private club operating division of Troon. Persimmon Country Club’s 18-hole, par 71 golf course

opened for play in 1992 and was designed by Gene “Bunny” Mason, who is credited for designing numerous courses in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest throughout the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s. The course is situated in a protective mountain bowl, surrounded by tall pine trees with numerous wetlands, lakes and creeks throughout the beautiful property. “Persimmon is blessed with a beautiful location, a great golf course and wonderful amenities,” said Bill O’Brien, vice president, Troon Privé. “The Troon Privé team looks forward to working with this outstanding club.” “Permission Country Club is excited to leverage Troon’s extensive resources to further the success of the club and enhance the member experience,” said Mark Swift, general manager, Persimmon Country Club.

BUSINESS NEWS AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

RENOVATION

Yangtze Dunes reopens post renovation Yangtze Dunes, the newly renovated links course at 36-hole Lanhai International Country Club, reopened to member play recently, following a far-reaching, 12-month renovation directed by Melbourne, Australiabased Ogilvy, Clayton, Cocking & Mead (OCCM). The renovated 18 reopened as a walking-only course, a rare renovation decision (exceedingly rare in Asia) that necessitated the removal of some 8 km of concrete cart paths. “Our members were on board with these changes from the beginning -- they understood that a traditional links is best enjoyed on foot, with

caddies,” Lanhai International CC general manager Jay Porter said. “They were ready for that aspect; it was honestly not that controversial. “What they weren’t ready for was just how good, how unique the new course has revealed itself to be. They’re over the moon about what OCCM have created here. The new 18 holes at Yangtze Dunes course are still quite young, still growing-in to maturity. But the members love it because it’s unlike anything in Shanghai, anything in China – anything in Asia, frankly. The walking-only aspect is but a small aspect of the transformation that has taken place here.”

EXPANSION

Toro expands Workman GTX line Toro announced an expansion of the versatile Workman GTX line with the introduction of new electronic fuel injection models and additional attachment options including new flatbed solid side kits, fold-down side kits and fold-down rear facing seats. The new options provide superintendents and grounds managers with more choices to build the perfect utility vehicle for each application. The Toro Workman GTX EFI models feature a closed-loop EFI system, eliminating the choke for maximum performance and reliable starting. This system continually adjusts the engine calibration for changing

weather conditions and altitude, as well as the quality, grade and type of fuel. “Being able to provide optimum performance regardless of weather conditions and altitude is a significant advantage, especially in areas with higher elevations or colder climates,” said Andrew Ihrke, product marketing associate at Toro. “With this new technology integrated into the proven, trusted Workman line, there’s now no need to feather the choke to get the engine moving on cold mornings and crews are able to just start it up and get their day started.” Unlike a carbureted or open-loop EFI system, which does not calibrate itself based on combustion feedback or adjust for fuel quality and other factors, the new Workman GTX’s closed-loop EFI system has an oxygen sensor that provides continuous feedback on quality of combustion. Because of this, the system always delivers the correct amount of fuel and continually checks itself to optimize performance — increasing efficiency for a lower total cost of ownership.

Golfplan embarks on $20 million renovation in Singapore

Seletar Country Club in Singapore has selected Golfplan to direct a sweeping, $20 million renovation to begin this summer. Led by partners Kevin Ramsey and David Dale, Golfplan are the original designers at one of Singapore’s top track: The Serapong Course at Sentosa Golf Club. The firm has also led separate renovation efforts at the nation’s largest golf property, Singapore Island Country Club. “It was a competitive design competition for the Seletar job – a dozen different firms put in for it,” Ramsey said. “I’m sure that we were chosen in part because we are so familiar with the unique parameters of course design work here. I can’t imagine anyone is more comfortable with the baroque government regulation process – we’ve been through it so many times. “But ultimately, we got the job because our design solutions were the most artful and efficient. We can’t wait to get started.” Built in 1991, Seletar CC sits quite some distance from Singapore’s central business district, high in the island’s interior near Seletar Airport and directly beside the Seletar Reservoir.

BIZGOLF

AUGUST 2018 BUSINESS NEWS

INNOVATION

Motocaddy’s ‘Next Generation’ Power Technology Motocaddy, the world’s top-selling golf trolley brand, has ‘super-charged’ its new range of compact-folding M-Series models with ‘Next-generation’ 28V power technology. Running at a higher voltage than traditional 12V trolleys, the new M-Series 28V ‘High Power’ system is more efficient, meaning the trolley doesn’t have to work as hard to perform the same task as the traditional 12V systems found in most other trolleys on the market. “The new M-Series range is the first to take advantage of advances in power technology,” said Marketing Manager, Oliver Churcher. “The new super-efficient drive system offers unrivalled power and more torque (grip) going up hills.” “The best way to describe how a 28V system works is to imagine the rev meter in a car. A 28V system requires less than half the revs of a 12V system to achieve the

same speed. Therefore, using a 28V power system allows us to optimize the trolley’s drive system, placing less strain on the components. This is ultimately better for the trolley and will help them last even longer,” he added. The new compact-folding M-Series range includes a model to suit every golfer, including another world first – the

brand new M5 CONNECT GPS model. As well as extending its revolutionary ‘Smart Cart’ technology to the compact trolley sector, Motocaddy is also enhancing its M3 PRO, M1 and M1 DHC models with a streamlined modern frame design that includes space-saving inverted wheels to help achieve a significantly reduced folded footprint.

APPOINTMENT

Toptracer Appoints GMS To Drive European Expansion Toptracer, the most advanced ball-tracking technology in golf, has appointed GMS as its European communications agency. Owned by global sports entertainment leader Topgolf, Toptracer is best known for the ball-tracking graphics used during televised golf tournaments such as The Open Championship and Ryder Cup, among others. In addition to transforming how golf is watched on TV, Toptracer technology is now accessible at local practice facilities with Toptracer Range. GMS will commence work highlighting the growing Toptracer Range expansion and its roll out into driving ranges across Europe. “Toptracer Range is ready to shake up the industry and the

way we all practice,” commented Sam Elder, Director at GMS. “It’s a product that gives golf its best chance of increasing participation, by offering golfers an immeasurably better practice experience. This in all makes Toptracer Range a very exciting company to begin working with.” “Toptracer Range enhances the driving range experience through data and gamification,” said Toptracer President Ben Sharpe. “It allows facilities to reach new audiences and grow the game because golfers are more likely to bring friends and practice longer. We have great ambitions globally and I feel GMS are the right agency to assist us with this journey in Europe.”

BUSINESS NEWS AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

NEW GOLF COURSES

London To Get Two New 18-Hole Golf Courses Golfers in the south east of England will soon get two spectacular new 18-hole courses to play on, plus improvements to one of London’s most prominent existing golf courses, in a partnership announced today between USA golf architects the Dye family and UK golf course developers the Menai-Davis family of north London. Matt McGarey, Cynthia Dye, Tony Menai-Davis, Perry Dye,

WINNER

Ceri Menai-Davis and Nigel Ely during a course inspection at West London Links in summer 2018 (photo Robert Parfitt) The Dye family of golf course architects is renowned throughout the sport for courses familiar to millions of TV viewers such as the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Florida, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island in South Carolina and Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, which is the

Under Armour Double In Today’s Golfer Awards

venue for The Ryder Cup in 2020. In Northolt, north-west London, the West London Links will open in the summer of 2020 to offer golfers a modern vision of links golf not far from Wembley Stadium. Dye family member Matt McGarey is teaming up with golf course construction expert Nigel Ely, former Chairman of the British Association of Golf Course Constructors, to shape

Under Armour, the originator of performance apparel, footwear and accessories, has been awarded Gold for both Spiked Footwear and Apparel in the annual Today’s Golfer awards. Judged against all apparel and footwear brands in golf by the UK’s best-selling golf title, Under Armour’s Spieth 2 shoe picked up Gold for Spiked Footwear, while the Under Armour ColdGear® Reactor Hybrid ¼ Zip won Gold in the apparel category. Recognised for game changing innovations in the shape of UA RST Traction on the Spieth 2 and ColdGear Reactor for the Reactor Hybrid, both products are go-to products for Today’s Golfer editor, Chris Jones, who said: “Every piece of marketing we see from golf companies says

its greens, bunkers and undulating fairways. Ceri Menai-Davis, director of The Shire London, West London Links, West London Golf Centre and The Dye London, said: “West London Links is a bold, brave design. We are pushing the boundaries of what is possible as regards sculpting a golfing landscape, with dramatic shaping which UK golfers have not seen before at an inland links.

their product can help golfers hit it further, and straighter. But when we tested the Spieth 2 with four TG readers earlier this year, it was unequivocal – the ultra-stable platform provided by some ground-breaking technology in these shoes helped all of them improve their ball speed and ball striking consistency. That’s why I’m now wearing a pair whenever I play golf. “The Reactor Hybrid is absolutely perfect for that typically changeable British weather by responding to your activity levels to keep you cooler or warmer. It looks great, too, fits really well and is a favorite with Jordan Spieth. But the thing that really struck us was the fact you get all this style and tech at fantastic value for money.”

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 GEAR UP

HIT IT ON THE SCREWS!

Callaway included “Jailbreak” technology in its two Rogue fairways (standard and Sub Zero) for added performance. The 3mm rods are made of steel and are not hour glass shape. Callaway’s Face Cup is also meant to help golfers achieve fast ball speed and long distance on both centre-face hits and CALLAWAY off-centre hits. They are joined by ROGUE an ultra-thin, fast Carpenter 455 PRICE: $299 steel face, which Callaway claims is made faster by Jailbreak.

Every year we witness equipment manufacturers unveiling latest offering that are designed to hit the ball farther, higher and straighter than ever before. Let’s take a look at the best fairway woods of 2018 so far.

The Cobra King F8 is an affordable range that doesn’t skimp on performance, providing maximum playability from all lies. The fairways COBRA GOLF continue to feature the Baffler rail system KING F8 on the sole to improve turf interaction. The F8 and F8+ also boast the same 360˚ Aero PRICE: $249 trips as the driver that maximize club speed and has the 5-ply carbon crown that creates more efficient clubhead weighting.

GEAR UP AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

The Ping G400 is designed to achieve faster ball speeds without sacrificing any forgiveness. These fairway woods feature a maraging steel PING G400 face that flexes 30 per cent more than the PRICE: $269 previous design, assisted by the cascading sole to increase carry distances and launch from shots struck lower on the face. Available in standard, SFT (draw biased Straight Flight Technology) and Stretch (larger head) versions.

TITLEIST 917 F2 AND F3

It provides greater distance; a higher launch and lower spin is accompanied by improved PRICE: $299 acoustics for increased confidence. Adjustable SureFit CG weighting system allows for an optimisation of spin and launch conditions to suit every player. The SureFit Hosel allows for further adjustability and optimisation. F2 has a larger profile while F3 is more compact.

ST180 fairway woods feature a thinner 1770 Steel Face - to further increase ball speeds and deliver a flatter, more efficient ball flight and a Quick Switch Adjustable Hosel that allows four degrees of loft adjustment and three degrees of lie adjustment. It comes with the hugely amplified Wave sole MIZUNO ST180 technology that PRICE: $350 reduces spin, assisted by the weight saving of the Internal Waffle Crown.

BIZGOLF AUGUST 2018 OFF COURSE

Lifestyle To share news on your products or updates on new launches, please email nikita@gecmediagroup.com

Leica’s new limited-edition Q camera Leica has introduced a new limited-edition camera created in partnership with English luxury travel lifestyle brand Globe-Trotter. It is based on the camera maker’s Q model and features specially selected GlobeTrotter leather in navy or light pin. Designed for travelers with a penchant for high-quality camera gear, it comes in a specially produced case based on the historic nine-inch Mini Trotter. Specifications are the same as the standard model. It boasts a 24-megapixel, full frame sensor and a super sharp 28mm fixed lens. Along with the classic Leica ‘red dot’ logo on the front, the limited edition sports the serial number engraved on the top cover. Only 50 units will be available for sale Price: US$ 7500+

Hermes Power bank A gauge on the power bank indicates how much power it holds. Hermès is wooing the smartphone addicts of the world with a new line of designer power banks. The power banks have aluminum exteriors which have been colored using an oxidation technique. It comes with a Barenia leather sleeve that has a small window to display the gauge. Price: US$ 365

OFF COURSE AUGUST 2018 BIZGOLF

Hublot introduces Spirit of Big Bang Hublot has released another limited-edition model from the Spirit of Big Bang collection, which captures the essence of the summer season. Inspired by the azure of the Mediterranean Sea, the Spirit of Big Bang Blue watch as the name suggests comes finished in deep blue. The limited-edition watch features blue microblasted and polished ceramic combined with a blue alligator strap stitched onto white rubber. It combines all the signature elements of the Spirit of Big Bang range, including the Tonneau-shaped case. Six H-shaped screws create a “sandwich” case construction and the materials convey the concept of Art of Fusion whereby unexpected materials are combined. The movement powering the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Blue is the HUB4700 automatic skeleton chronograph. Price: On Request

Montegrappa unveils Bartolomeo Ferracina Montegrappa is now set to honor the work of celebrated watchmaker- Bartolomeo Ferracina. It recently unveiled an exclusive pen in dedication to the artist. The series is a limited edition of 100 piston-filled fountain pens in three variations of celluloid: Malachite (green), Indian Rainbow (shades of beige), and Shiny Circles (variations of gray). It features a 16-mm quartz watch (driven by a Miyota Movement) with a white dial and silver-colored indexes on the cap crown, along with a complimenting sterling silver gripper. The in-built Pen- watch carries quite a weight and meets all of Montegrappa’s standards with a celluloid body, sterling trim, a classic piston filling system, and an 18-karat gold nib in a variety of sizes. Price: US$ 2,300

2 18

FEBRUARY

JANUARY

GOLF SCHEDULE

18 -21

25-28

PGA TOUR: SONY OPEN IN HAWAII

PGA TO U R : C A R E E R B U I LD E R C H A LLE N GE , C A

LP G A TO U R : P U R E S I LK - B A H A M A S LP G A

1 1 -14

18 -21

1 1 -14

EUROPEAN TOUR: BMW SA OPEN, S.AFRICA

MARCH

E U RO P E A N TO U R : O M E G A D U B A I D E S E RT CLASSIC, DUBAI

2 5 -28

EUROPEAN TOUR/ASIAN TOUR: EUR ASIA CUP, KUAL A LUMPUR

PGA TO U R : FA R M E R S I N S U R A N C E O P E N, S A N DIEG O, C A

1-4

15 -18

22-25

PGA TO U R : GE N E S I S O P E N, C A

LP G A TO U R : H O N DA LP G A T H A I L A N D, B A N GKO K

PGA TOUR: WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN, ARIZONA

1-4 EUROPEAN TOUR: MAYBANK CHAMPIONSHIP, KUAL A LUMPUR

15-18 LPGA TO U R : I S P S H A N DA WO M E N ’S AUS T R A L I A N O P E N, A D E L A I D E

8 -1 1

15-18

PGA TOUR: AT&T PEBBLE BEACH PRO-AM, CA

EURO P E A N TO U R : N B O O M A N G O LF CL AS S I C , M U S C AT

EUROPEAN TOUR: ISPS HANDA WORLD SUPER 6 PERTH, AUSTR ALIA

22-25 E U RO P E A N TO U R : CO M M E RC I A L B A N K QATA R MASTERS, DOHA

2 2-25 PGA TO U R : T H E H O N DA C L A S S I C , F L

1-4

15-18

21-25

WORLD GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPS: MEXICO CHAMPIONSHIP, MEXICO CIT Y

PGA TO U R : A R N O LD PA L M E R I N V I TAT I O N A L , ORL A N D O

P G A TO U R : CO R A LE S P UN TAC A N A R E S O RT & C LU B C H A M P I O N S H I P, P UN TA C A N A , D.R .

1-4

15 -18

22-25

PGA TOUR: PUERTO RICO OPEN

LPGA TO U R : B A N K O F H O P E FO UN D E R S C U P, PHO E N I X

LP G A TO U R : K I A C L A S S I C , C A R L S B A D, C A

15 -18

MARCH 29 - APRIL 21

1-4 LPGA TOUR: HSBC WOMEN’S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, SINGAPORE

1-4 EUROPEAN TOUR: TSHWANE OPEN, SOUTH AFRICA

APRIL

25-28

1 2 -14

8 -1 1

5-8 MASTERS TOURNAMENT, AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

1 1 -14 LPGA TOUR: LOTTE CHAMPIONSHIP, K APOLEI, HAWAII

EURO P E A N TO U R : P H I L I P P I N E S G O LF CHA M P I O N S H I P, P H I L I P P I N E S

2 1 -25

MARCH 29 - APRIL 21 LP G A TO U R : A N A I N S P I R AT I O N, R A N C H O M I R AGE , C A

19 -22

26-29

PGA TO U R : VA LE RO T E XA S O P E N, S A N ANTO N I O, T X

LP G A TO U R : T B A , S A N F R A N C I S O

19 -22

26-29

LPGA TO U R : H U GE L - J T B C C H A M P I O N S H I P, LOS A N GE LE S

E U RO P E A N TO U R : VO LVO C H I N A O P E N, CHINA

19 -22

PGA TOUR: RBC HERITAGE, HILTON HEAD ISL AND, SOUTH CAROLINA

EURO P E A N TO U R : T RO P H E E H A S S A N I I , R ABAT, M O RO CCO

EUROPEAN TOUR: TBA (EUROPE)

P G A TO U R : H O U S TO N O P E N, H O U S TO N, T X

WOR LD G O LF C H A M P I O N S H I P S : WG C - D E LL MATC H P L AY, AU S T I N, T X

1 2 -15 1 2 -15

MAY

EURO P E A N TO U R : A B U D H A B I H S B C CHA M P I O N S H I P, A B U D H A B I

CLASSIC, BAHAMAS

2 6 -29 PGA TO U R : Z U R I C H C L A S S I C O F N EW ORLE A N S , L A

3-6

17 -20

24-27

PGA TOUR: WELLS FARGO CHAMPIONSHIP, CHARLOTTE, NC

PGA TO U R : AT & T BY RO N N E L S O N, DA LL A S , T X

E U RO P E A N TO U R : B M W P G A C H A M P I O N S H I P, S U R R E Y, E N GL A N D

3-6

17 -20

LPGA TOUR: VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA LPGA TEXAS CL ASSIC, THE COLONY, TEXAS

LPGA TO U R : K I N G S M I LL C H A M P I O N S H I P, WILL I A M S B U RG , VA

5-6

17 -20

EUROPEAN TOUR: GOLFSIXES, TBA

10 -13 PGA OF AMERICA : 32ND PGA MINORIT Y COLLEGIATE GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP, FLORIDA

10 -13 PGA TOUR: THE PL AYERS CHAMPIONSHIP, PONTE VERDE BE ACH, FLORIDA

10 -13 EUROPEAN TOUR: ROCCO FORTE OPEN VERDUR A, SICILY, ITALY

EURO P E A N TO U R : B E LG I A N K N O C KO U T, ANT W E R P, B E LG I UM

24 -27 79TH K I TC H E N A I D S E N I O R P G A CHA M P I O N S H I P, M I C H I G A N

24 -27 PGA TO U R : D E A N & D E LU C A I N V I TAT I O N A L , FORT WO RT H, T X

24 -27 LPGA TO U R : LP G A VO LV I K C H A M P I O N S H I P, ANN A R B O R , M I C H I G A N

MAY 31-JUN. 3 P G A TO U R : T H E M E M O R I A L TO U R N A M E N T, D U B L I N, O H I O

MAY 31-JUN. 3 U S G A : U. S . WO M E N ’S O P E N, S H OA L CREEK, ALASKA

MAY 31-JUN. 3 E U RO P E A N TO U R : I TA L I A N OP E N. T B A

JUNE

7 -10

14 -17

22-24

PGA TOUR: FEXEX ST. JUDE CL ASSIC, MEMPHIS, TN

LPGA TO U R : M E I J E R LP G A C L A S S I C , GR A N D R AP I D, M I C H I G A N

LP G A TO U R : WA L M A RT N W A R K A N S A S C H A M P I O N S H I P, RO GE R S , A R K A N S A S

7 -10

J UN. 17-20

JUNE 26-JULY 1

PGA O F A M E R I C A : 51 S T P G A P RO F E S S I O N A L CHA M P I O N S H I P, S E A S I D E , C A L I FO R N I A

LP G A TO U R / P G A O F A M E R I C A : 6 4 T H K PM G WO M E N ’S P G A C H A M P I O N S HI P, I LL I N O I S

8 -10

2 1 -24

LPGA TOUR: SHO PRITE LPGA CL ASSIC, GALLOWAY, N. J.

PGA TO U R : T R AV E LE R S C H A M P I O N S H I P, CRO M W E LL , C T

JUN. 28-JULY 1

EUROPEAN TOUR: THE 2018 SHOT CLOCK MASTERS, AUSTRIA

JUN. 28-JULY 1

USGA: U.S. OPEN, SOUTHAMPTON, NY

EURO P E A N TO U R : B M W I N T E R N AT I O N A L OPE N, GE R M A N Y

E U RO P E A N TO U R : H N A O P E N D E F R A N C E , PA R I S

5-8

AUGUST

JULY

14 -17

1 2 -15

26-29

PGA TOUR: THE GREENBRIER CL ASSIC, WEST VIRGINIA

LPGA TO U R : M A R AT H O N C L A S S I C , S Y LVA N I A , OHI O

5-8

1 2 -15

LP G A TO U R : A B E R D E E N S TA N DA R D I N V E S TM E N T S L A D I E S S COT T I S H O P E N, S COT L A N D

LPGA TOUR: THORNBERRY CREEK LPGA CL ASSIC, ONEIDA, WIS.

EURO P E A N TO U R : S COT T I S H O P E N, SCOT L A N D

5-8

19 -22

EUROPEAN TOUR: IRISH OPEN, REPUBLIC OF IREL AND

R&A : T H E O P E N C H A M P I O N S H I P, CAR N O U S T I E , S COT L A N D

9 -1 2

19 -22

9-12

PGA OF AMERICA : 43RD GIRLS JUNIOR PGA CHAMPIONSHIP, LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY

PGA TO U R : B A R B A S O L C H A M P I O N S H I P, KENT U C K Y

P G A O F A M E R I C A : 4 3 R D B OY S J UN I O R P G A C H A M P I O N S H I P, LE X I N GTO N, K E N T U C K Y

1 2 -15

2 6 -29

PGA TOUR: JOHN DEERE CL ASSIC, SILVIS, IL

PGA TO U R : R B C C A N A D I A N O P E N, O N TA R I O, CAN A DA

2 -5

16 -19

23-26

PGA TOUR: WGC-BRIDGESTONE INVITATIONAL , AKRON, OHIO

PGA TO U R : W YN D H A M C H A M P I O N S H I P, GRE E N S B O RO, N C

E U RO P E A N TO U R : D + D R E A L C Z E C H M A S T E R S ,

2 -5

16 -19

R&A: RICOH WOMEN’S BRITISH OPEN, LY THAM, ENGL AND.

2 -5 PGA TOUR: BARR ACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP, RENO, NEVADA

6 -1 2 PGA OF AMERICA : 100TH PGA CHAMPIONSHIP, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

8 -1 2

OCTOBER

SEPTEMBER

EUROPEAN TOUR: EUROPEAN GOLF TEAM

NOVEMBER

P G A TO U R : T H E N AT I O N A L , T B A

2 1 -24

LPGA TO U R : I N DY WO M E N I N T E C H CHA M P I O N S H I P, I N D I A N A P O L I S .

16 -19 EURO P E A N TO U R : N O R D E A M A S T E R S , GOT H E N B U RG , S W E D E N

2 3 -26 PGA TO U R : T H E N O RT H E R N T R U S T, RIDGEWO O D, N J

2 3 -26

26-29 E U RO P E A N TO U R : P O R S C H E E U RO P E A N O P E N, H A M B U RG , GE R M A N Y

P R AGU E , C Z E C H R E P U B L I C

AUG. 30-SEPT. 2 E U RO P E A N TO U R : M A D E I N D E N M A R K , AARHUS, DENMARK

AUG. 30-SEPT. 2 LP G A TO U R : C A M B I A P O RT L A N D C L A S S I C , P O RT L A N D, O R E .

AUG. 31-SEPT. 3 P G A TO U R : D E LL T E C H N O LO G I E S C H A M P I O N S H I P, B O S TO N, M A

CHAMPIONSHIPS, SCOTL AND

LPGA TO U R : C P WO M E N ’S O P E N, R E G I N A , SASK ATC H EWA N

6 -9

20 -23

27-30

PGA TO U R : TO U R C H A M P I O N S H I P, ATL A N TA , G A

LP G A TO U R : D I M E DA R BY LP G A M A L AY S I A , K UA L A LUM P U R , M A L AY S I A .

PGA TOUR: BMW CHAMPIONSHIP, NEW TOWN SQUARE, PA

6 -9

20 -23

EUROPEAN TOUR: OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS, CR ANS MONTANA, SWITZERL AND

EURO P E A N TO U R : P O RT U G A L M A S T E R S , VIL A M O U R A , P O RT U G A L

13 -16

24 -25

EUROPEAN TOUR: KLM OPEN, NETHERL ANDS

PGA O F A M E R I C A / E U RO P E A N TO U R : 1 1 T H JUN I O R RY D E R C U P, D I S N E Y L A N D PA R I S

13 -16

2 5 -30

LPGA TOUR: THE EVIAN CHAMPIONSHIP, EVIAN-LES-BAINS, FR ANCE

PGA O F A M E R I C A / E U RO P E A N TO U R : 4 2 N D RYDE R C U P, PA R I S

4 -7

18 -21

25-28

LPGA TO U R : T B A , S H A N GH A I .

LP G A TO U R : S W I N G I N G S K I RT S LP G A TA I WA N

18 -21

C H A M P I O N S H I P, N EW TA I P E I C I T Y, TA I WA N

EURO P E A N TO U R : A N DA LU C I A VA LD E R R A M A MAS T E R S , S OTO GR A N D E , S PA I N

29-31

LPGA TOUR: UL INTERNATIONAL CROWN, INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA

4 -7 EUROPEAN TOUR: ALFRED DUNHILL LINKS CHAMPIONSHIP, SCOTL AND

1 1 -14

2 5 -28

P G A O F A M E R I C A : 17 T H P G A J O N E S C U P, P O RT S T. LU C I E , F LO R I DA

LPGA TOUR: LPGA KEB HANA BANK CHAMPIONSHIP, INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA

PGA O F A M E R I C A : 3 0 T H S E N I O R P G A PRO F E S S I O N A L C H A M P I O N S H I P, F LO R I DA

1 1 -14

2 5 -28

EUROPEAN TOUR: BRITISH MASTERS SUPPORTED BY SKY SPORTS, TBA

WOR LD G O LF C H A M P I O N S H I P S : H S B C CHA M P I O N S , S H A N GH A I , C H I N A

1-4

7 -10

15-18

EUROPEAN TOUR: TURKISH AIRLINES OPEN, ANTALYA, TURKEY

LPGA TO U R : B LU E B AY LP G A , H A I N A N ISL A N D, C H I N A

LP G A TO U R : C M E GRO U P TO U R C H A M P I O N S H I P, N A P LE S , F L A .

8 -11

15-18

2-4 LPGA TOUR: TOTO JAPAN CL ASSIC, SHIGA, JAPAN

EURO P E A N TO U R : N E D B A N K G O LF CHA LLE N GE BY G A RY P L AY E R , S O U T H A F R I C A

5 -9

15 -18

PGA OF AMERICA : 102ND PGA ANNUAL MEETING, PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA

PGA O F A M E R I C A : 4 2 N D N C R A PRO F E S S I O N A L C H A M P I O N S H I P, F LO R I DA

E U RO P E A N TO U R : D P WO R LD TO U R C H A M P I O N S H I P, D U B A I

16-19 P G A O F A M E R I C A : 8 T H P G A J R . LE AGU E C H A M P I O N S H I P, S COT T S DA LE , A R I Z O N A

AUSTRALIA AZERBAIJAN BAHRAIN BOTSWANA CANADA CHINA EGYPT FRANCE GHANA

INDIA INDONESIA ITALY KAZAKHSTAN KENYA MALAYSIA MAURITIUS NEW ZEALAND NEPAL

PARTICIPATING COUNTRIES

NIGERIA OMAN RUSSIA SAUDI ARABIA SCOTLAND SINGAPORE SRI LANKA SPAIN SOUTH AFRICA

50 QUALIFYING ROUNDS

3,700 C-LEVEL EXECUTIVES

SWITZERLAND THAILAND TURKEY UAE UNITED KINGDOM US ZIMBABWE