Bizgolf November 2017 by GEC MEDIA GROUP

NOVEMBER 2017

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NOVEMBER 2017 VOLUME 04 ISSUE 01

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WGC- HSBC Champion Justin Rose

26 TECHNOLOGY

GPS devices for accuracy like never before!

38 TEE TIME

Gaganjeet Bhullar bags the Macau Open

44 UP CLOSE

Big Fish in a Small Pond: Eric Ng

COVER: SHUT TERS TOCK

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INFRASTRUCTURE FORUM 2017 28TH NOV 2017 THE CONRAD HOTEL, DUBAI, UAE

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BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 EDITOR’S NOTE

PUBLISHER & MANAGING DIRECTOR TUSHAR SAHOO CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Handicapping Handicap Recently at an amateur tournament, the scorers were faced with an awkward situation. A golfer who declared his handicap to be 24, ended up carding a score of 7-over on a difficult layout with a 136 course rating! The handicap certificate only confirmed his claim leaving the scorers and organisers perplexed. Chatting up to a bunch of golfers I knew, it became fairly evident that it happens all the time. What’s baffling is that a solution to this epidemic seems far away. One of the key responsibilities in a corporate tournament is handicap adjustment to make the game fair to everyone, and organisers rely on information on handicap certificates to be binding and final. A 24er shooting 7-over will always make you think. Here’s a big shout out those playing the system to win championships and lose the true meaning of the game. To the rest, write to us with ideas on how you think this issue can be addressed. We’ll publish your insights with our choice of alternatives in the upcoming issue. Keep writing! In this one, we’ve brought you a selection of golf courses from the ‘Rainbow Nation’ of South Africa and a special feature on golfing in Cambodia. Up Close with ‘Big Fish’ Eric Ng, a lot of hard goods featuring top three wedges and a selection guide to your next GPS device and luxury needs. News updates from global golf industry and the world of professional, corporate golf.

BHARATH ARVIND MANAGING EDITOR VINEET MANN vineet@gecmediagroup.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT NIKITA SHARMA nikita@gecmediagroup.com GUEST WRITER AMAN MISRA LEAD VISUALIZER NEHA DESIGNER AJAY ARYA ASSISTANT DESIGNER RAHUL ARYA SUBSCRIPTIONS info@gecmediagroup.com SALES AND ADVERTISING RONAK SAMANTARAY MARKETING DIRECTOR ronak@gecmediagroup.com GLOBAL EVENT SALES SHOUVICK DUTTA shouvick@gecmediagroup.com VIKRAM SINGH vikram@gecmediagroup.com SOCIAL MARKETING & DIGITAL COMMUNICATION YASOBANT MISHRA yasobant@gecmediagroup.com PRODUCTION & CIRCULATION RICHA SAMANTARAY richa@gecmediagroup.com

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BIZGOLF ANNOUNCES

HOLE-INONE CLUB REGISTER TODAY!

If you are one of the select few to have achieved this elusive and colossal feat on the greens, bizgolf helps you commemorate your ace with a special mention in this magazine. Register at www.bizgolfsea.com/ace and be part of an exclusive club!

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TRENDING THERE IS NO SEPARATING BUBBA AND GOLF

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WGC- HSBC CHAMPION JUSTIN ROSE

HERE’S SOMETHING YOU DON’T SEE EVERY DAY! CAN’T WAIT FOR THE HERO WORLD CHALLENGE! TIGER IS BACK!?

WE AGREE SMYLIE, HAT GAME IS STRONG WITH THIS ONE THE SPIRIT OF ELVIS LIVES ON

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SOUTH AFRICA:

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ith an abundance of natural beauty around, South Africa boasts a number of world-class golf courses each in their own unique setting. From fairways in the bush where zebra roam freely, to the greens of the coast where welcoming breezes blow off the ocean, the Rainbow Nation provides a perfect setting for the golf enthusiasts to love the game even more. We bring you such courses across South Africa for a perfect Golf Sojourn!

Pinnacle Point Golf Club Offering magnificent views, there exist only a few courses in the world that can come close to the clifftop splendour of Pinnacle Point. Perhaps, Old Head in Ireland, Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand and Pebble Beach in California are its closest relatives. For lovers of full-on, dramatic seaside golf, this layout delivers high octane thrills and magnificent ocean views from start to finish. Expansively laid out on terrain that slopes away from the sea, each of the

spectacularly designed holes provides stunning views onto the Indian Ocean. Many are played alongside and sometimes towards imposing cliffs that rise from the sea. The closing stretch on both the front and back-nines contains a succession of hugely memorable “signature” holes; many clubs would pay a king’s ransom just to have one such hole in their layout. On several occasions, you will be required to drive across wide ravines that cut in from the sea, with the lichen-covered cliffs

awaiting anything hit too short or right. The four par-3’s are the most scenic collection of short holes you’ll play anywhere - and that includes the likes of Pebble Beach and Cypress Point. The par-5s will test your long game to the full, and around the excellent greens, all manner of short game challenges await - not least in the depth and quantity of the bunkering. This Matkovich masterpiece will challenge and enthral in equal measure - while

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on the rocks sloping down to the ocean. Called Rock or Cape Hyrax (or Dassies in South Africa), they are native to Africa and the Middle East. Perhaps the bestknown colony of Dassies live on Table Top Mountain in Cape Town, and can always be spotted around the tourist areas, where food might be found. From many vantage points on the course it is not uncommon to see dolphins and whales just offshore in the Ocean. the dramatic views are guaranteed to keep your camera fully employed. Although real estate is developing on some parts of the Pinnacle Point estate, it is still of sufficient low-density not to interfere with your golf or the magnificence of the layout. Pinnacle Point is an extremely wellbalanced golf course that will challenge the most talented golfer. However, as a result of a minimum of five tee boxes per hole, it allows the average golfer to enjoy their round of golf and perhaps post a personal best score on “The best golf course on the planet” (Darren Clarke).

Course Architect and Designer

Contact

Co-designed by Peter Matkovich and Darren Clarke.

Pinnacle Point Beach & Golf Resort 1 Pinnacle Point Rd, Mossel Bay, Western Cape 6506, South Africa +27 (0)44 693 5320 reservations@pinnaclepointestate.co.za www.pinnaclepointestate.co.za

Green Fee The 2017 visitor green fee is $200 per player (stay and play package).

Fun Fact There are some little guests that can make your game a little more fun. Watch out for the 14th tee box for a small colony of small, brown, rabbit-sized animals that live

Where to Stay Pinnacle Point Lodges & Villas Pinnacle Point Beach & Golf Estate, Mossel Bay. +27 (0)44 693 3438 www.pinnaclepointestate.co.za

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 GOLFSCAPES

Leopard Creek Country Club

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With elevation changes, excellent bunkering, fast and true greens and no end of water hazards, this masterpiece designed by Gary Player is sure to take any golfers’ breath away. Located alongside the Crocodile River, with the southern edge of the vast Kruger National Park stretching away on the opposite bank, Leopard Creek is both spectacular and wonderfully scenic. Playing the course is one of the best golfing experiences in South Africa. At the downhill par-5 9th, all the essential elements of a great golf hole come together, with an island green spicing up the risk-reward character of the hole. The parallel par-4 18th, also played downhill to a water-protected green, is another absolute belter. Here the final outcome of a match or tournament can hang in the balance all the way down to the final putt. The relatively open aspect of the frontnine gives way to some hillier climbs on the back-nine that provide the opportunity to take-in many stunning views. Perhaps the best vista of all comes at the 13th green. Here you look down onto a wide sweep

of the Crocodile River, where crocs and hippos provide an always engaging and dramatic scene. With its magnificent thatched clubhouse and a leopard statue at every tee-box, Leopard Creek guarantees a magnificent and unforgettable African golf experience. Even more so if you are one of the lucky few (in fact, very few) to catch a glimpse of the resident leopard.

Course Architect and Designer Gary Player

Green Fee 2017 visitor fee (local lodge guests), 18-holes: $250. Golf cart included. Must book in advance.

Fun Fact Leopard Creek is a creation of Johann Peter Rupert, one of South Africa’s most successful business tycoons and committed conservationists. Ever since its opening, Leopard Creek has become a revered and established name throughout the

golfing world. The sculptures at each tee box are the work of Dillon Lewis and stunningly depict “A Day in the Life of a Leopard”. In addition to a course map, it would be more than a little interesting if you also had access to a Hollywood style star-map, to spot who owns the relatively small number of fabulous course-side properties.

Contact Leopard Creek Country Club Malelane Gate, Malelane, Mpumalanga 1320, South Africa +27 (0)13 791 2000 www.leopardcreek.co.za

Where to stay Buhala Lodge 4-star off the N4, Malelane, 1320 Mpumalanga. +27 (0)82 909 5941 www.buhala.co.za Kwa Madwala Private Game Reserve 4-star PO Box 192, Hectorspruit, Mpumalanga +27 (0)13 792 6700

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The Links at Fancourt When at Fancourt, visiting golfers can enjoy its emerald fairways and three varied and challenging championship golf courses, as well as excellent practice and learning facilities. Of the three, the most demanding and perhaps most distinctive layout is the Links course. A superb and testing British links-style course is not what you’d expect to find a few miles inland on South Africa’s Garden Route - but make no mistake this is a “links” in name and in character. Gary Player’s masterpiece was in fact built on a flat, disused airfield. More than 750,000 tons of earth was moved to create a classic looking ‘dunescape’, onto which this world-class links-style course was crafted. The result is a superb and very testing championship course.

As aficionados of links golf would expect, the terrain is open, the fairways full of rolling bumps and hollows and lined with sand dunes (housing is conspicuously absent). There is deep uncompromising rough awaiting the long-carries from the tees, plenty of strategic pot bunkering and some huge, undulating greens. Integrated into the design are some wonderfully natural wetland areas, which means that water is dangerously brought into play on a few occasions. Wooden-slatted walkways are used on a few occasions to get you from green-to-tee. As one of the very well-trained local caddies accurately put it, “this is a great course - enjoy it”.

Course Architect and Designer Gary Player

Green Fee 2017 resort guest fee, 18-holes (April thru’ Oct): $150 (all days) . Must book in advance.

Contact Fancourt, South Africa Montagu Street, Blanco, George, Western Cape 6530, South Africa +27 (0)44 804 0000 links@fancourt.co.za www.fancourt.co.za

Where to Stay Fancourt, South Africa 5-star Montagu Street, George 6530 +27 (0)44 804 0000 www.fancourt.co.za

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 GOLFSCAPES

Legend Golf and Safari Resort

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The golf experience at Legend Golf & Safari Resort, located three hours drive from Johannesburg, is nothing short of exceptional. Possessing eighteen different signature holes, on a course uniquely designed by eighteen of the world’s best golfers, each hole in this relatively open, gently undulating bushland setting has the vision of a great golfer at its heart. The par 72-layout, complete with its stunning mountain backdrops, begins from elevated tees and an excellent risk-reward par-5, courtesy of South African player/ designer Trevor Immelman. Another South African, Retief Goosen closes out your round with another challenging par-5 at the 18th. But as you putt out on the final green, all is far from finished - the extreme par-3 19th awaits. This extraordinary par-3 hole, measuring a mere 360 meters is accompanied by a 430 meter vertical drop, down onto a green shaped like the African continent. A short helicopter ride gets you to and from the tee-box, conveniently located on top of Hanglip Mountain. So that your short game is fully tested, the Legend also includes a 10-hole short course, recreating some of the world’s most famous par-3s. There’s also an academy with a unique approach to

learning and designed in a unique style.

Course Architect and Designer Each of the 18-holes was separately designed by one of the world’s leading golf professionals of the late-1990s/ early-2000s. The Signature designers of the Legend course (with the hole they designed in brackets) are: Trevor Immelman (1); Thomas Bjorn (2); Jim Furyk (3); Bernard Langer (4); Michael Campbell (5); Colin Montgomerie (6); Mike Weir (7); Camilo Villegas (8); Justin Rose (9); Padraig Harrington (10); Raphael Jacquelin (11); Ian Woosnam (12); Luke Donald (13); Robert Allenby (14); Vijay Singh (15); Sergio Garcia (16); KJ Choi (17); Retief Goosen (18).

Green Fee 2017 visitor green fee is $120 (golf cart included). Must book in advance.

Fun Fact 10-hole par-30 Tribute Course comprising replicas of some of the world’s toughest and best known par-3 holes. The Tribute par-3 course includes the following replica holes: Pine valley 10th (1); Royal Troon 8th -

Postage Stamp (2); St Andrews Old Course 11th (3); Augusta National 12th - Golden Bell (4); Royal Melbourne 6th (5); Augusta National 16th - Redbud (6); Riviera CC 7th (7); an African Redan hole (8); Yale University 9th (9); TPC Sawgrass 17th (10).

Contact Legend Golf & Safari Resort Entabeni Nature Reserve, Mokopane, Limpopo Province 0600 South Africa +27 (0)12 361 6303 golf.lgs@legendlodges.co.za www.legendgolfsafari.com

Where to Stay Legend Golf & Safari Resort - Resort Suites Entabeni Nature Reserve, Mokopane, Limpopo Province, S. Africa +27 (0)14 743 6303 www.legendlodges.co.za Entabeni Lodges Entabeni Nature Reserve, Mokopane, Limpopo Province, S. Africa. +27 (0)11 729 6700 www.legendlodges.co.za

GOLFSCAPES NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

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Serengeti Golf & Wildlife Estate A step into this serene locale and you are bound to fall in love, the Serengeti Golf & Wildlife Estate is a new city located east of Johannesburg away from the hustlebustle. It provides a self-contained and secure residential environment along with the provision of amenities and facilities inside its perimeter. Among the facilities is the first 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature course in South Africa’s Gauteng province. The 18-hole championship layout, named Masai Mara, has a rugged grassland and dune scape look. In addition, the 9-hole Whistling Thorn course features classic design elements and a plains-style feel. The Serengeti Golf Club is the first in Gauteng to use cool season grasses, allowing the playing areas to remain lush and green throughout the year. The two-nine hole loops of the Masai Mara layout incorporate a number of challenging features, such as the challenging par-5 8th hole, played to an island-green. Water also threatens on other holes, with ponds and small lakes

dangerously flanking several fairways. A majority of the holes have an open and natural feel; where housing occasionally flanks the holes, it is generally set well back out of harm’s way. The variety of available tee options can provide the sternest of challenges for the most skilled players or an easier-going round for newer golfers.

Course Architect and Designer

Maasai language, the Serengeti is host to the world’s largest animal migration, when over two million wildebeests, zebras and other grazing herbivores, migrate from the northern hills toward the southern plains, crossing the Mara River, in pursuit of the rains.

Contact

2017 green fee is $135 (golf cart included). Must book in advance.

Serengeti Golf Club Serengeti Golf & Wildlife Estate nr Kempton Park, Gauteng , South Africa +27 (0)11 552 7200 golfbookings@serengeti.co.za www.serengeti.co.za

Fun Fact

Where to Stay

Serengeti takes its name from a geographical region of eastern Africa, located in north Tanzania and south-western Kenya. The region, once known as Massailand, contains several national parks and game reserves, and covers an area of 30,000 km2 (12,000 sq mi). Meaning “endless plains” in the

African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel Arch, 1 Melrose St, Melrose, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa www.marriott.com +27 11 214 6666

A Jack Nicklaus Signature Design

Green Fee

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Rand Park Country Club (Firethorn) Claimed to be a golfing gem since 1971, the Randpark Golf Club is one of the finest the country has to offer. It has been home to two championship golf courses, the longer and tougher Firethorn (formerly the Randpark course), and the more elegant and charming Bushwillow (formerly known as the Windsor Park course). The Firethorn, which is played on the north side of the clubhouse (the Bushwillow heads south), has a more open feel than its sibling. However, extra length, prodigious bunkering and a plentiful array of dangerous water hazards, gives the Firethorn a distinct edge in terms of overall golfing challenge. The tough closing stretch brings two good-sized ponds into play, which threaten at the dog-legging par-4 16th and par-3 17th. The par-5 18th requires one last carry over the Klein Jukskei river, before the relative safety of the heavily-bunkered final green is reached. The more upfront challenges and bigger

“muscles” of the Firethorn course, perfectly complement the older world charms of its Bushwillow companion, making for 36 excellent holes of golf here at the Randpark Golf Club.

after the original opening.

Contact

Green Fee

Randpark Golf Club Setperk St, Randpark, Randburg, nr Johannesburg, Gauteng 2194 South Africa +27 (0)11 215 8600 info@randpark.co.za www.randpark.co.za

Golf rounds available on request. Contact the club for details.

Where to Stay

Course Architect and Designer Sid Brews

Fun Fact Windsor Park Golf Club opened here in 1941, and boasted the 12-hole “Windsor” course, which was later extended to 18-holes and became known as the Windsor Park course. In 2012 the course enjoyed a facelift, and a name change to become the Bushwillow course. The club’s Randpark (now Firethorn) course, and a new clubhouse, arrived in 1971, 30 years

The Fairway Hotel & Golf Resort Randpark Golf Club, Setperk St, Randburg, Johannesburg 2125. +27 (0)11 478 8000 www.thefairway.co.za Idwala Guest House 5-star Guest House 13 Garrick Rd, Darrenwood, 2194 Johannesburg +27 (0)11 888 1437 www.idwala.com

GOLFSCAPES NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

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Durban Country Club Stepping into Durban Country Club is to enter a natural and lush golfing oasis, seemingly far removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown Durban, located just a few miles away.This place lets you discover one of South Africa’s best and beautifully laid out golf course that is long remembered by those who play it. Although the Indian Ocean is never more than 100 meters from the course’s eastern boundary, you will not be spending any time gazing out to sea. Here, the first priority is keeping your ball down the “straight and narrow”, and away from the ever-present trees and bushes that encircle the course and line the fairways. Next, you will need to negotiate your way around, or out of, the substantive and very stylish greenside bunkering. Water is only an issue on a couple of holes, but there are other “perils” that lie in wait. The upturned “pudding basin” green at the par-3 12th for example, demands that your tee shot land on the green. Failing to hit the

green leaves a testing pitch shot up a steep bank onto the green - overhit this and its down the steep bank on the other side. The par-5 3rd, which starts narrow and seems to get ever-narrower as it approaches the green, is regularly listed as one of the world’s best par-5s. Trying to cope with the fast and subtle breaking greens is also one of the enjoyable challenges thrown at you by Durban CC. If it all gets too much (unlikely), just stopping to appreciate the wide array of flora and fauna is always a treat here, monkeys and red bishops included!

Course Architect and Designer George Waterman & Laurie Waters

Green Fee 2017 visitor green fee is $90. Must book in advance.

Fun Fact The par-5 3rd hole has often featured in

ranking lists of the greatest holes in the world, while the infamous par-3 12th is reputed to have claimed the scalp of a royal golfer. Differing reports suggest that HRH The Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII) played here in 1924 and ran up a 17 at this tricky hole. More recent reports suggest HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York, managed a 14 here on one occasion.

Contact Durban Country Club Isaiah Ntshangase (Walter Gilbert) Rd, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal 4000, South Africa +27 (0)31 313 1777 mail@dcclub.co.za www.dcclub.co.za

Where to Stay Hilton Durban 4-star 12–14 Walnut Road, Durban 4001 +27 (0)31 336 8100 www.hilton.com

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Erinvale Golf Club Nestled deep in the Cape wine country, the Erinvale estate is yet another fine example of a wonderfully scenic Gary Player designed layout, with majestic views of the surrounding Helderberg and Hottentots Holland mountains. There is plenty of real estate on the flattish front-nine where water is your main danger, especially close to the greens at the testing par-4 4th, 5th, and 6th holes. The par-5 7th is an excellent risk-reward hole, demanding a final carry over a small stream for anyone bold enough to go for the green in two. The quality of the holes and elevation changes increase on the more interesting back-nine. From the 10th hole, you start a steady climb that will take you to the layout’s highest elevation and some superb mountain and Indian Ocean views. The real estate also climbs to these higher elevations but seems less noticeable as the

fabulous views take over. The tough closing stretch contains an unforgettable downhill par-5 at the 16th, and a very good, long par-4 17th. With an excellent and varied mix of bunkering throughout - Scottish-style pot bunkers, railway sleepered bunkers and some deep revetted bunkers all feature Erinvale is one of the Cape’s most memorable inland courses.

South African team of Ernie Els and Wayne Westner. The course has also been the venue for South African Open championships. Very close to Erinvale is the 300-year old Vergelegen winery - producer of some world renowned and very popular wines.

Contact

Green Fee

Erinvale Golf Club Lourensford Rd, Somerset West, Western Cape 7130. South Africa +27 (0)21 847 1144 pro-shop@erinvale.com www.erinvale.com

2017 visitor green fee is $150 (golf cart included). Must book in advance.

Where to Stay

Club Architect and Designer Gary Player

Fun Fact Erinvale has been a host to many prestigious tournaments including the 1996 World Cup of Golf, which was won by the

Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa 4-star Lourensford Road, PO Box 2941, Somerset West 7129, Cape Town. +27 (0)21 847 1160 www.erinvale.co.za

SWING FOR LIGHT

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Individuals Golfers registering in the GEC Open 2017 can purchase OneLight with the proceeds going to a charity of their choice. They can choose to donate the light as well.

Visit gecopen.com/csr for more details Contact: info@gecmediagroup.com

Corporates OneLight is available for bulk purchase for corporates who want to give the gift of light as part of their own CSR programs.

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BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 GEC OPEN

GEC OPEN: MAIDEN MAURITIUS EVENT

MAURITIUS

he 18 country GEC Open 2017 golf tour, in association with OMA Emirates, ventured into two new territories recently. The inaugural event in the island nation of Mauritius held at the picturesque golf course of Heritage Golf Resort was followed by the kickoff of GEC Open India series at Golden Greens Golf Resort in Delhi NCR. Top corporates and industry leaders from the Mauritius business community turned up in huge numbers to partake in the coveted GEC Open golf tournament. Amidst a stiff competition, the podium finish

National qualifying round winners QUALIFYING ROUND

WINNERS

Mauritius

C h r i sto p h e C a l l a o | Pa u l Fe r re i ra | C h r i stophe Callaou

Delhi NCR (India)

Anmol Puri

belonged to Christophe Callaou who carded 34 points along with Paul Ferreira with 29 and Ishtiaq Hajee Adam who bagged 34 points to claim victory in their respective handicap classes to confirm their participation at the world final in Dubai. The island nation of Mauritius is one

of the leading tourist destinations and a growing economy. GEC Open in association in OMA Emirates serves as a platform for Mauritian business community to engage with international businesses and vice versa bringing financial opportunities to the region.

GEC OPEN NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

FOLLOWED BY INDIAN SWING

INDIA

GEC Open India series

n India, GEC Open is organising five national qualifying rounds, more than any other participating countries owing to the enormous buildup of the event in the nation. The India series began with the qualifying round held at country’s only link style golf course, Golden Greens, where over 110 corporate bigwigs and decision makers gathered together at the Par 72 Championship layout by legendary Dr. Martin Hawtree for a round of competitive golf and networking luncheon. With a coveted spot at the world final of GEC Open – Dubai Corporate Golf World

Cup – up for grabs, the tournament saw some seriously low scores and nail-biting finishes. Anmol Puri, Director, Monitor Deloitte returned with only under par round of the day at the tough Golden Greens to emerge champion with the best Nett score at 44 points. Anmol has booked his berth at the World Final of the GEC Open in association with the OMA Emirates where he will team up with national winners from 4 other Indian cities to present Indian challenge at the World Final. Dubai Corporate Golf World Cup will be played later this year on December

“We are glad to bring the GEC Open tournament to India and the response from Indian golfing fraternity has been tremendous at the inaugural event in Delhi NCR and Golden Greens Golf Resort. The participants had a great time and the event was the right combination of competitive golf and networking for potential business opportunities. Hopefully, with their support, we’ll be able to make GEC Open one of the most celebrated events on the capital’s golfing calendar. We will continue to expand this platform and associate GEC Open with more golfers and corporates across the globe.”

-TusharSahoo, MD, GEC Open.

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 GEC OPEN

“I am so glad to have won today. The course conditions were just perfect for my game. I made three birdies but was consistent with my two putts and that paid off in the end. I am really looking forward to competing in Dubai world final and bring the World Cup home along with my teammates.”

-Anmol Puri

13-14 at two world-class golf courses in Dubai amongst winners from 18 countries. GEC Open is an initiative to bring leading global organisations and executives on a unified platform; growing the bond and strength of business while working to improve the lives of others through charitable causes. GEC Open round in Delhi NCR was the eleventh event in a series of national qualifying rounds scheduled to culminate at the DCGWC later this year. Prior to Delhi and Mauritius, the 2017 GEC Open organised successful events in Ghana, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Nepal, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Botswana and South Africa to name a few. The tour will now move on to host events in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Jamshedpur, Bhubaneswar,

Bahrain, Singapore, China and Indonesia. With humble beginnings in 2014 in just one country, GEC Open has grown into a global platform for networking and a nursery for everlasting friendships and international business relations. GEC Open brings together leading global organisations and executives on a common platform through golf. GEC works to improve the lives of others through charitable causes while growing the bond & strength of business between corporate leaders. A special note thanks to the sponsors- OMA Emirates, bizgolf, CNBC, Indigo Airlines, The New Indian Express, Club Mahindra, Callaway India, Kingfisher and host venue Golden Greens Golf Resort.

GEC OPEN NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

GEC Open Global Leader board after Delhi NCR qualifying

STATS SO FAR Different Nationalities represented

Unique Corporate entities

65 432

Likeliness of attending GEC OPEN again next year? Extremely likely

Very likely

Somewhat likely

Not so likely

65%

30%

Recommending GEC Open to a friend or colleague? TOTAL PLAYERS

610 Male: 483

80%

Extremely likely

Very likely

Somewhat likely

Not so likely

71%

25%

Overall feedback of the event Excellent

Very good

Good

Fair

70%

24%

Female: 127

20%

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 TECHNOLOGY

FOR ACCURACY LIKE NEVER BEFORE! Knowing exactly how far you are from the pin, lurking bunkers, water hazards or a lay-up is essential to keeping your score down. The best way to achieve this is using a golf GPS. These gadgets help you ace your course management by using satellite technology to display pinpoint yard readings of your position so you know how to play your next shot. You’ll find golf GPS devices to be either a smart phone-sized handheld or wearable technology, crammed into clever wristwatches.

Bushnell Neo Excel PRICE: US$ 190 The Bushnell Neo Excel range GPS watch gives you distances along with a Bluetooth connection to your smart phone for updates and notifications on the go. With a battery support of upto 14 hours, the watch even facilitates real time weather updates.

TomTom Golfer 2 PRICE: US$ 249 With an automatic shot detection and post-game analysis, this device lets you drive your game to the next level. Equipped with a motion sensor, Bluetooth and a battery backup of 11 hours, this watch weighs only 49 g ensuring a hassle free game. Highlights l Preloaded with 40,000 golf courses l Can be used as an activity watch l Yardages to front middle and back l Good battery life l Syncs for post game analysis

Challenges and white face l Sensitive to practice swing l Water hazard and bunkers hard to identify – not user friendly l Takes time to set up l Black

Highlights l Large clear display l Water resistant l Preloaded with 35,000 golf courses l Yardages to front, middle and back l Battery lasts at least 3 golf rounds Challenges l Only four hazards per hole l Too many buttons

TECHNOLOGY NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

SkyCaddie Linx GT PRICE: $299.95

Garmin S60

As a GPS watch, the SkyCaddie Linx GT is a reasonably stylish affair that is comfortable and light to wear on your wrist as you play. It comes with preloaded courses and is a user-friendly device that lets you save strokes, thereby, ultimately improving your game.

PRICE: $399

Highlights l Clear display l Outstanding accuracy l Great views of each hole l Uses its own mapping system l Great sync options with the phone app Challenges l Annual subscription for all features

With up to 10 hours of battery life while golfing — or up to 10 days in watch mode, Approach S60 is sure to keep up with you. Not just a perfect fit for golf, the watch can be used for more preloaded activity profiles like running, cycling, swimming and more. Also, the activity-tracking features like the move bar, vibration alerts, calories and steps calculator helps you stay fit on the go! Highlights l Colour screen 1.2” l Pre loaded with 40,000 golf courses l Can be used as an activity watch l Touch enabled l Yardages from front, back and middle Challenges l Trying to do too much

SkyCaddie Aire 2 PRICE: $199.99 A great choice if you want an unobtrusive GPS device that gives you easy-todigest yardages. If you don’t like wearing a watch when playing then this will clip on your belt or fit in your pocket without distracting. If you want added information, such as the shape of greens or distances to hazards, you can unlock these by paying for one of the SkyCaddie subscriptions. Highlights pre loaded golf courses l Accurate distance to front, back and middle of the green l TrueGround Fairway target and layup target to green

l Measures

shot distance

l 35,000

Challenges l Black and white display l Not touchscreen l Extra features at additional cost

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 TECHNOLOGY

Bushnell NEO Ghost PRICE: $129.99 This is a wearable mini GPS device that gives a wide range of course information. The first things you notice when you pick it up is how light the 42g device feels. It is a perfect pick because of its large screen and user-friendly approach.

Highlights preloaded golf courses l Small enough to fit in pocket or clip on bag l Good course recognition l Auto hole advance l Available in vibrant colours l 35,000

Challenges l Only 4 hazards per hole pre loaded l Black and white display l Not touchscreen

Garmin Approach G8 PRICE: $349.99

SkyCaddie Touch PRICE: $295.99 The device features a glove-friendly, easy-to-use touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity to provide golfers with the ultimate user experience and convenience. It has a hi-resolution, sunlightreadable, colour display that amplifies the clear superiority and high-definition maps. Highlights l Colour 3” screen l 35,000 pre loaded courses l Accurate fairways and green shapes l Hazard and distances clearly identified l Very accurate yardages Challenges l Battery life not great on full feature mode l Yearly memberships for full features

The sleek, lightweight and durable Approach G8, with a 3-inch capacitive touch colour display, is a feature-packed handheld. G8 starts with precise distances for more than 41,000 golf courses around the world. With free Wi-Fi course updates for life, the device also boasts smart notification messaging, PinPointer blind shot assistance, a rechargeable 15-hour battery, and the online share-and-compare golf community within Garmin Connect (the app).

Highlights golf courses preloaded with option to download more l Offers both hole and green view l Automatically starts at first hole and advances l Measures and keep track of the shots l 40,000

Challenges l A little too sensitive touch screen

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BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 EXPERIENCE GOLF

B Y : B H A R AT H A R V I N D

THE GRACE OF AN

ANCIENT KINGDOM ANGKOR GOLF RESORT, SIEM REAP

CAMBODIA

EXPERIENCE GOLF NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

ituated in the serene temple town of Siem Reap, Cambodia, The Angkor Golf Resort- A Nick Faldo design is Cambodia’s premier golf

destination. Rated as Cambodia’s best golf course by Asian Golf Awards 2014 and also Second Runner-up as the Best Maintained Course in Asia Pacific,

this Par 72, 7279 yards championship course has seashore paspallum grass throughout the course giving golfers a genuine treat to hit off the fairways.

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 EXPERIENCE GOLF

The emerald greens of the Angkor Golf Resort.

EXPERIENCE GOLF NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

“All of my favorite design elements: visibility, definition, strategy, challenge, variety, balance, playability and enjoyment are here at the Angkor Golf Resort.” -SIR NICK FALDO Green Fees: US$ 155 (Weekdays & Weekend) Tel: +855 63 767 688 Website: www.angkor-golf.com

It was an absolute delight to say the least, to play this extremely well-manicured course. Every aspect of the course stands out and speaks ‘world- class’. I was glad to see that golf carts had to stay on the cart path ensuring the fairways and areas around the aprons of the greens were well preserved. I played this course on a sunny July morning, after a night of heavy rain. That torrential downpour didn’t seem to dampen this course one bit. Kudos to the superintendent and staff. Each hole offers unique and ambitious opportunities as the fairways are wide and generous. However, with omnipresent water hazards and bold bunkering styleson most holes, trademark Faldo features, you have to plan your shots wisely. The greens on this golf course are immaculately maintained and remain very true throughout. They have subtle undulations which a first timer

could easily miss. Make sure to listen carefully to the caddie’s advice (she knows best!). The Par 4, 18th hole is a signature Faldo hole which makes for an exciting finish with the threat of water on both the drive and approach shot to the green. This leaves you with great memories of your round at Angkor. This 18-hole championship course has a 300-yards grass driving range and practice putting green, a chipping green, a warm and contemporary designed club house with men’s and women’s locker rooms. The Pro Shop is well stocked with all the leading brands on display and the restaurant offers a variety of Asian and Western cuisine to satiate all palettes after an enjoyable round. The course offers golf carts, club and shoe rentals and a well-groomed set of lady caddies who are a repository of information about the course, greens and other local

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 EXPERIENCE GOLF

SWING TIP

When your swing feels off and shots are erratic, one simple check you should do is throttle down on your swing speed. Usually, golfers who play regularly begin forcing their tee shots in effort to get extra distance. This extra force and swing speed, throws off timing, rhythm and balance and leads to erratic tee shots without creating power. Always feel you are swinging at around 75% of your maximum power and you will actually get more distance, accuracy and satisfying hits off the center of the clubface.

EXPERIENCE GOLF NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

TOP 5 GOLF COURSES IN CAMBODIA: 1. Cambodia Golf & Country Club: The oldest golf course in Cambodia opened in 1996. Located 33 Km west of the capital Phnom Penh the 7077 yard par 72 course is set among 120 acres of land lined with sugar palm trees, evergreen plants, flowers and rocks. The large greens make 3-putting fairly common. Tel: +855 12 811 778 Website: www.cambodiagolf.net 2. Garden City Golf Club: The best conditioned course in Phnom Penh, this course opened in April 2013 and immediately emerged as one of the best golf courses in Phnom Penh. The par-72 golf course is laid out on 240 acres and is located 15 kilometers northeast of downtown Phnom Penh. The course conditioning from the use of Seashore Paspalum turf is very good and comparable with the top courses in the region. Tel:+855 23 991 953 Website: www.gardencityclub.com 3. Phokeethra Country Club: The Sofitel managed course adds to the world class golf now available in Cambodia. The golf course hosted the 2009 Johnnie Walker Classic and 2010 Cambodian Open. Located 15 minutes from Siem Reap airport, this 7,145-yard par 72 course offers Sweeping fairways and generous greens giving it a distinctive layout and feel. Natural lagoons and sand traps thread through the course to challenge golfers of all abilities. Tel: +855 63 96 46 00 Website: www.phokeethragolf.com 4. Royal Cambodia Phnom Penh Golf Club: Located 8 Km from the Phnom Penh International Airport, the 7,075 yard Par-72 golf course is spread out over 200 hectares and nestled in amongst rice paddies and coconut palms. Being so close to the capital it is a favorite with locals and expatriates. Tel:+855 23 366 689 Website: www.golfcambodia.com/golf-courses/ royal-cambodia-phnom-penh-gc/

places of interest. The club offers airport transfers and will also accommodate travel packages including sightseeing tours of the famous Angkor Wat temple and surrounding areas. When in Siem Reap, this is the golf course to play.

Quick Facts: A mere 15 minutes away from

Siem Reap City Centre, 20 minutes from the Ankgkor Wat temple, this is an ideal golf getaway for those visiting the Kingdom of Wonder. Rated as the Best Golf Course in Cambodia by Golf Digest USA in 2012 and has been featured in the Rolex Top 1000 Golf Courses. David Baron – The Director of Golf is the right person to contact if you plan to visit to this masterpiece.

5. Siem Reap Booyoung Country Club: This Par-72, 7396 yard course was designed by the renowned Japanese course architect Kentaro Sato. Generous palm lined fairways, and a choice of five tees on each hole enable players of all abilities to appreciate this well presented and manicured course. Impressive saunas and an international restaurant specialising in Korean cuisine awaits you in the elaborate clubhouse upon completion of your round. Tel:+855 23 366 689 Website: www.golfcambodia.com/golf-courses/ siem-reap-booyoung-country-club/

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 TEE TIME

LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR

Aditi reigns supreme in Abu Dhabi In what was her third victory in 12 months on the Ladies European Tour, young Indian golfer Aditi Ashok held her nerve to claim the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Open title at the picturesque Saadiyat Beach Golf Club in Abu Dhabi. Aditi survived a late scare when she double bogeyed the penultimate

hole of the championship – par 3 17th but calmed her nerves for an easy par on the 18th for a one-shot victory over English golfer Georgia Hall. Aditi said: “It wasn’t really nerves, I think I lapsed for a bit and missed the putt. I was playing okay all day but wasn’t making as many birdie putts as I wanted to but I’m happy I came

out on top.” Ashok’s previous two LET titles were the back-to-back wins at the Indian Open and Qatar Ladies Open in her rookie season in 2016. The 19-year-old will now look to defend her Hero women’s Indian Open title from 10-12 November at DLF Golf & Country Club in Gurgaon, India.

ASIAN TOUR

Panuphol bags Indonesia Open crown Thailand’s Panuphol Pittayarat completed a total of 25 holes to secure victory at the Indonesia Open that concluded on October 30. Panuphol traded three birdies against a bogey for an outward 34, grabbing just a one-shot edge over compatriot Tirawat Kaewsiribandit, who closed in with four birdies, at the turn.

“I tried to play every hole the same way and not think about the result and it works!” he said. “I will keep that mentality going into the next couple of tournaments. I am very happy. I know Panuphol is a very good player so I just played my own game and I tried my best,” he added.

TEE TIME NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

EUROPEAN TOUR

Garcia wins at Valderrama

PGA TOUR

Justin Thomas takes home the inaugural CJ Cup Justin Thomas, hailing from the United States won his seventh PGA Tour title at the inaugural CJ Cup by defeating Marc Leishman of Australia in the second playoff hole. The event

Sergio Garcia capped the season of his career with a home victory at the Andalucia Valderrama Masters. Garcia began the day with a one shot lead and posted a four-under-par 67 to beat Joost Luiten by a stroke for his 14th European Tour title. Until now in 2017, has won a total of three titles including his Dubai Desert Classic and Masters triumphs. The 13-time European Tour winner has also been awarded Honorary Life Membership of the European Tour in recognition of his triumph at Augusta National in April. He became the 53rd player to be added to the exclusive list and is just the third Spaniard to receive the accolade, after Seve Ballesteros (1983) and José María Olazábal (1994). Garcia said, “Joost played unbelievable. I played really well and I felt like maybe I could get away and he just kept coming back and back and made it an amazing match. “I stayed patient the whole time, I made sure the bad moments did not affect me too much and made a couple of really key putts coming in”, he added.

held at Jeju Island, South Korea witnessed a tactful game. While both parred the first playoff hole, the par-5 18th, Thomas birdied it second time around to seal the victory after

Leishman made bogey. It was his fifth win of the calendar year which made him move up to the third in the world, behind fellow Americans Dustin Johnson and Jordan Speith.

LPGA | LET

Cristie Kerr’s winning streak It’s a moment to rejoice for ace golfer Cristie Kerr. The 39-year-old American won the LaCoste Ladies Open in France, a tournament on the Ladies European Tour. She also took home her 20th title at Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia held later in October. With her 20th LPGA title, Kerr’s LPGA Hall of Fame point total rises to 22, moving her to within five points of eligibility for induction. A player earns

one point for an LPGA victory and two for a major championship. Winners of the Rolex Player of the Year or Vare Trophy also earn a point. “Whatever I’ve had in my life, or I’ve done in my life, it’s been because of golf,” Kerr said. “No matter how much it breaks your heart, sometimes, if you have the talent that God’s given me, you’ve got to push forward. I’ve done some pretty amazing things in my life.”

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 TEE TIME

ASIAN TOUR

Gaganjeet Bhullar bags the Macau Open trophy Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar romped home to a three-shot victory at the Macau Open to bag his eighth Asian Tour title in Macau. Bhullar etched his name on the trophy for the second time having previously won the event in 2012. Bhullar was unstoppable on the final day of the USD 500,000 event as he brought in a card of three-under-68 to end up with a winning total of 13-under271. He now has nine international wins to

his credit including one on the Challenge Tour. Interestingly, it was the third time that an Indian won the Macau Open. Besides Bhullar having won it in 2012, Anirban Lahiri had also won it in 2014. “I was absolutely blank after the bogey on the first hole. After that I just stuck to my plan and took my opportunities. Honestly it got simple after the bogey. I hit the ball well and made my putts. It was a tough start to the day but the last four days have been really hard.

This is probably the only tournament where I’ve played in such windy conditions in all four rounds”. “Every time you win wire-to-wire on the Asian Tour, you learn a lot. I want to grow as a player and you learn so much from winning and even losing. I’m glad that this is my eighth Asian Tour title and I’ve got so many more events to play on the Asian Tour. The next goal is to start thinking and preparing on the next victory.”

ASIAN TOUR

Sandhu takes home his first Asian Tour title Indian Golfer Ajeetesh Sandhu took home the Yeangder Tournament Players Championship (TPC) trophy, held in Taiwan. The 28-year-old sunk three birdies against a lone bogey to return with a winning total of 12-under 276 to defeat USA’s Johannes Veerman (71) by one-shot at the Linkou International Golf and Country Club. With the victory Sandhu took home US$ 90,000, including a two-year winner’s exemption on the Asian Tour. “I’m still shaking from the last putt but now that I’m thinking about it, it is absolutely amazing,” said Sandhu after becoming only the second player from India after Gaganjeet Bhullar to win the Yeangder TPC. “I’m proud of myself that I was able to focus on my own my game. I was just trying to hit the next shot the best that I could and I won,” added Sandhu.

TEE TIME NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

MENA TOUR

Sturehed triumphs at Mena Tour Championship

PGA TOUR

Henric Sturehed completed his stunning week at Al Zorah Golf Club in Ajman by winning the season-ending Mena Tour Championship by nine shots. After shooting a course record 63 in the second round, Sturehed never looked back and entered the final round with a comfortable seven shot lead. “Absolutely delighted with my first win on the Mena Tour,” Sturehed said. “It was my first season on the Mena Tour and I really enjoyed the whole experience. There are many good players out there and it was fun competing with them”, he added. The event saw Jake Shepherd claim the runner-up spot after a bogey free 66 saw him end on 12-under par, two clear of fellow Englishmen Andrew Marshall and Adam Sagar.

Justin Rose’s worldclass victory at HSBC Champions The HSBC Champions turned into a shocker in Shanghai when Dustin Johnson went into the PGA Tour record books for all the wrong reasons. Instead of becoming the first player to win three World Golf Championships in one year, he tied a record for losing the largest lead in the final round. Six shots clear of the field, Johnson didn’t make a single birdie on a wild, wind-blown day for a collapse that even Rose didn’t see coming.

Only when he saw a leaderboard behind the 14th green and realized he was three shots behind did Rose think he might have a chance. As Rose was signing for a 5-under 67, he looked up and saw Johnson’s last hope for eagle on the 18th tumble off the side of the green and into the water. The HSBC Champions sure didn’t look like a tournament where he would keep that streak going, not when he was eight shots behind

going into the final round against Johnson, who has been No. 1 in the world. “It’s the kind of day you certainly don’t expect. It’s the kind of a day you hope and dream for, but a lot of things need to go your way in order for a day like today to happen, coming from eight shots behind, especially going against a player like DJ,” Rose said after his two-shot victory as he took home his second World Golf Championships title after 2012.

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 BUSINESS NEWS

GOLF TOURISM

Thanks to international golfers, New Zealand witnesses a surge in economy! The golf industry in the land of Kiwis is witnessing a significant growth in the number of golf enthusiasts visiting the country, which ultimately is contributing to a surge in their economy. Golf tourism to New Zealand is seeing a substantial growth of over 17% with visitors playing 32,000 rounds at marquee courses. The growth rate is among one of the highest being experienced worldwide. These

international golfers are creating opportunities for wine tourism industry as well. Andrew Fraser, Director of Marketing Tourism New Zealand says, “It’s been a huge year for New Zealand golf with the country hosting a range of major international golf events. This exposure is priceless and has really showcased New Zealand as a must do golfing destination across the globe. International

golfers deliver millions to the economy each year, staying significantly longer and spending more than the average visitor.” New Zealand has around 400 golf courses and offers incredible variety, from ocean front subtropical courses in the north to alpine settings in the south. Golfers can easily travel to a range of courses while sampling what each region has to offer.

Andrew Fraser , Director of Marketing, Tourism New Zealand

OBITUARY

American Society of Golf Course Architects Fellow, David J. Gordon, passes away at 95

David J. Gordon, the son of William F. Gordon, one of the ASGCA’s original members passed away on October 20, 2017. David served in the Army Air Force in World War II and later studied agronomy at Penn State University before joining his father’s

golf course design business. The Gordons designed dozens of golf courses across the northwestern US and Canada, including Browns Run in Middletown, Ohio; Stanwich Club in Greenwich, Connecticut and Sunny Brook Country Club in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsyl-

vania, to name a few. David Gordon was the longest-tenured ASGCA member, having been welcomed in 1951. He became a Fellow in 1993 and served as ASGCA President from 1959-60. Gordon also brought to light some lost writings of Donald

Ross, after discovering a 1914 manuscript from the architect in his attic. This was adapted and turned into a book - Golf Has Never Failed Me: The Lost Commentaries of Legendary Golf Architect Donald J. Ross – by Ron Whitten, and was published in 1996.

BUSINESS NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

RETIREMENT

BRAND RESET

England Golf plans to revamp their brand experience Else London, an experience design consultancy has been appointed by England Golf to refresh their brand language and revamp their digital experience. The move is initiated to better engage its audiences around the game of golf. The work is part of a new five year strategy that will see the organisation engage more people around the sport, as well as better support clubs and counties with both resources and business planning. The project aims a complete redesign of England Golf’s website, to deliver a better experience to golfers and golf businesses across the calendar year. To execute this, Else will develop a flexible content

structure that allows the site to flex to the different demands throughout the calendar year. Tanya Allen, marketing and communications director at England Golf commented, “refreshing our brand proposition and re-launching our website represent key components of a wider strategic overhaul of how England Golf engages with its many audiences around the game. We are excited to be partnering with Else to help us shape the future of our organisation and how we interact with our members, clubs and counties.” The website is due to go live in February 2018.

ASSOCIATION

Eir Sport comes together with Carr to facilitate better golf coverage

Eir Sport has entered into a new partnership with Carr Golf management group. The link-up will result in Carr Golf coming on board as an official sponsor of all Eir Sport golf coverage

Nufarm announces retirement of Arden Bull

until March 2018. This would include direct association with Eir Sport’s daily Golf Central show, cross-promotion of services, and mutual customer and employee benefits. Carr Golf is ranked as Ireland’s leading golf course operator with over 500,000 rounds a year played at venues managed or maintained by its team. The link-up extends beyond traditional broadcast sponsorship and will see the two parties work in partnership together in a number of areas to the benefit of the two companies’ customers and staff.

After serving for over a decade, the longserving national ornamental manager, Arden Bull has retired from Nufarm. The company made the announcement recently. Arden, a veteran in agriculture and specialty crop protection has over 28 years of turf, ornamental, greenhouse and nursery technical sales. Bull has led ornamental sales at Nufarm Americas for the past 12 years and cultivated trusted relationships with greenhouse and nursery growers, and key university and private researchers across the United States. “I want to thank Nufarm for believing in me and allowing me to share my vision for the ornamental market. The expansion and growth has been great challenge, and it has been a great ride for me climbing to No. 1,” Bull said. “I will always look fondly on the experience and the professional and personal relationships I’ve gained.” Post retirement, he plans to spend more time with his family. He envisions his time will include more fishing with grandsons and attending the dance events of his granddaughters. He also anticipates more travel, bike rides, woodwork, time to go on a mission trip and give back to his community at the local Unity House and Elder Care Home.

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 BUSINESS NEWS

FACELIFT

Post renovation, Vegas course offers better playability The rugged Las Vegas area boasts a lush green spot, Rio Secco Golf Course. Built more than 20 years ago, the club, now owned by VICI Properties, recently re-opened after a $2.1 million renovation project intended to increase playability for the casual golfer and improve sustainability. Rees Jones, the course’s original architect, led the six-month renovation process, which included new green complexes and bunkers,

forward tees, and an expanded and enhanced practice facility. Renowned golf instructor Butch Harmon, who applauded the changes, helped Jones, known as the Open Doctor due to his renovation work on renowned courses. “These courses should be designed for the everyday player, not the tour pros,” Harmon said. “Making it easier and designed so golfers can play more quickly is exactly what golf needs.”

TECHNOLOGY

Time to rejoice for golf enthusiasts in South Korea! Almost a year after successfully launching the Samsung Gear S3 Smartwatch, Samsung has now come up with the Gear S3 Golf Edition. But, golf enthusiasts across the world can’t rejoice on the arrival of this latest gadget, as it will be only available in South Korea. Developed in collaboration with Golfzon Co. (a company that develops indoor golf simulators), this slightly redesigned version of the Gear S3 is aiming to improve a golfer’s experience by providing useful information regarding the conditions of the golf course a person is playing on. A Smart Caddie app

comes pre-installed in the smartwatch and gives users their current location as well as a geographical overview of the golf course. However, other than the Smart Caddie app, the Gear S3 Golf Edition is nearly identical to the existing Gear S3 in terms of external design and software UI. Although golfers still greatly rely on caddies for tips and insight, Samsung hopes to lessen this dependence by adding in an aspect of technology into the popular sport. To get their hands on this arm candy, buyers will have to shell out a sum of 399,300 Won (approximately $352 USD).

BUSINESS NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 BIZGOLF

Derek Sprague

SALE AGREEMENT

Zagaleta group completes sale of Valderrama golf course The members of Real Club Valderrama in Sotogrande, Spain, have purchased Valderrama SA, the company that owns the Valderrama golf course, from Zagaleta International UK. At a cost of €28 million, the members have reached an agreement which will see them acquire the famous Robert Trent Jones-designed course, as well as the

club’s par three course, practice facility and clubhouse. The Zagaleta group will continue with the Castellar de la Frontera golf, hotel and residential project, previously known as ‘Valderrama II’. The property was bought by the Zagaleta group in 2016. The group also owns La Zagaleta – a golf course and housing development near Marbella, Spain.

HIRED

Former PGA President named GM at TPC Sawgrass Former PGA America President Derek Sprague has been named the new general manager at TPC Sawgrass in Florida. He has spent the past two years as managing director at Liberty National Golf Club in New Jersey. Sprague replaces Bill Hughes, who after 11 years at Sawgrass was promoted to regional director of operations for the entire TPC Network of courses. He was employed by the PGA Tour at Liberty National and helped oversee

the club’s preparation for this year’s Presidents Cup. He now shifts to the PGA Tour’s flagship property to help oversee annual preparations for The Players Championship. “With the ongoing evolution of TPC Sawgrass as we strive to deliver an unparalleled experience throughout the year and during The Players Championship, it was incumbent upon us to find the right person to succeed Bill and continue our progress,” said John Hugghins, Senior Vice President of TPC.

ACQUISITION

SoCoastal acquires Myrtle Beach Golf Packages Company SoCoastal, a technology-focused travel company, has acquired MyrtleBeachGolfPackages.com, a leading golf package provider that specializes in golf vacation planning and tee-time booking services in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. After the successful launch of SoCoastal’s vacation rental marketplace last year, the organization is expanding their focus beyond vacation rentals to include the golf industry. “SoCoastal is a Myrtle Beach-based company, so getting involved with the golf industry here was a natural fit for us. Adding MyrtleBeachGolfPackages.com to the SoCoastal family is a huge step forward for our business. It gives us another platform that we can use to increase our brand’s reach and

put our professionally managed vacation rentals directly in front of a massive audience. It’s definitely a win-win situation for us and the local vacation rental management companies that we develop partnerships with”, says CEO and founder, Justin Urich. “Our number one priority is to update the existing golf website and integrate our software. As we begin to infuse our technology into the golf side of our business, I think we’ll discover additional opportunities for growth in the Myrtle Beach golf industry.” Offering access to over 100 area golf courses, the coastal region of South Carolina is estimated to attract approximately 3,000,000 golfers every year.

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 UP CLOSE

Big Fish in a Small Pond:

ERIC NG BY AMAN MISRA

olorado native Craig ‘The Walrus’ Stadler once walked into a golf shop and picked out a driver from a barrel. A couple of practice swings later, he put the club into play. Stadler would go on to win the Masters Tournament later that spring in 1982, cementing a career year with four wins. These days, professionals wouldn’t dream of doing what the Walrus did. Just like fitting yourself for a customized suit, golfers measure unthinkable variables on their way to lower scores around the world almost on a daily basis. This October, bizgolf caught up with Eric Ng, who is the man behind Big Fish Golf in starry Singapore. Big Fish is an independent club fitting studio originally based out of the Lion City. Apart from facilities that look after a player’s current equipment, they also build their own line of irons and wedges. Eric has spent most of his life as the business development director of an advertising agency and as the CEO of a local company. Golf was incidental. “I’m a third generation Singaporean who started playing the game as a means to entertain my clients in the 1990s. In 2005, I was approached to invest in a club fitting company, which I agreed to.” Barely seven months into the partnership, one of his co-investors wanted out. “At the time, my current partner Andrew and I decided to start the company from scratch all over again. I quit my job and came into the club fitting industry full-time.” “Ground zero. There was no precedent - it was a blank slate where we had to figure everything out for ourselves.” Though at this point, there were many

other fitters in Southeast Asia let alone Singapore, capital required to run such an organization was always short. The other problem was that there was the inherent need to have a variety of products to customize and sell to the golfer - professional or otherwise. Eric joined what was then the Professional Clubmaker’s Society (PCS) founded in the early 1990s, an international organization for people in the industry. “By 2007, it went bankrupt. A few of us ex-PCS members started talking about an independent club maker’s society.” Thus, was born the International Clubmakers Guild (ICG), which he was a part of, from the first steering committee. They envisioned putting together a group of like-minded people. “We had to modernise the entire organization with a complete overhaul in order to cater to what golf represents today. The two-fold objective is to ensure that members from across the globe learn from each other and through the ICG, get certified for both club making and club fitting - as it constitutes to be an important aspect of our work.” There are rigorous tests organised by the ICG to ensure the theoretical knowledge of their members. Club fitting is no longer local know-how that is simply passed down from generations. “We hope to improve the competence of the profession as a whole.” In 2015, Eric was named as the Worldwide Clubmaker of the Year by the ICG for his contribution to the art of club making. The panel comprised of professionals, industry leaders. “Based on the scale of our business and innovation we bring to the industry, we were selected as finalists. We have a whole area of products that differentiate us from the

ERIC NG (L), FITTING C LU B S FOR FORMER SOUTH KO R E A N PRO GOLFER PAK SE- R I

rest.” Coming to the business aspect of things, Big Fish Golf has fitting centers all over Southeast Asia in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand to name a few. “We don’t do franchises. We never collect money for the use of our brand. This was a strategic move in order to leverage on the strength of each other. “Singapore alone cannot do perhaps more than twenty sets of clubs. These partnerships help spread our product to different countries as well as create economies of price.”

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The passion with which he speaks about his profession is very evident in the stories he tells about working with professionals. “During the 2016 HSBC Women’s Championship LPGA regular, Ha Na Jang, a professional golfer from South Korea came up to us and asked to check her wedges.” “We could see that she was apprehensive as she had never worked with us before. She liked our work and asked her caddy to bring her entire bag. The lofts and lies were a little off. I was able to tell her what the problem was, asked her for her favourite club and

worked backward from there to recreate her whole set. She went on to win by four strokes that week.” Consider the case of South Korean, and five-time major champion Si Ri Park who was discussing the loft of her putter with an equipment representative when Eric chipped in and gave her his opinion. Park looked at him in amazement and asked how he knew what they were thinking. “I told her your job is to play golf and my job is to build clubs for you!” 2010 US Open winner Graeme McDowell

broke a shaft during an earlier edition of the Barclays Singapore Open, and Eric was called in for the damage control. “The shaft he wanted was unique and hence I had to dig very deep to find a replacement. I had to improvise, and found a used shaft that in his words were better than the earlier one.” There is TK Ratchanon all of ten years old who is a three-time US Kids champion (2014-2016) and has won the IMG World Junior and Callaway World Junior this year. “We have a set of irons that we named after

BIZGOLF NOVEMBER 2017 UP CLOSE

him called TK001.” This is also the same set of irons used by Aryaman Singh. Ten-year-old, Singh has topped the junior order of merit in India for four years straight (2014-2017) “For these kids, we built irons measured for their size, then got them approved by the

USGA and R&A. It’s difficult to find clubs to fit them anywhere in the world.” “Aryaman and TK are the reason why I wake up every morning looking forward to work. We want to make sure that we have products to enable juniors to be better than what they are.” So why the name Big Fish and the logo? Eric turns philosopher to answer this one. “One of the earliest caveman drawings was fish. It symbolises abundance in Chinese

and is a sign of life in cultures especially in Southeast Asia. Whether we are in a big pond or small pond, we’d always like to be the Big Fish!” Empathy in his words is what one needs to understand the needs of a golfer when he or she comes in for a fitting. “It also comes down to knowing biomechanics and how the swing works to judge what would eventually work for the person.” Eric lives just seven minutes away from Laguna National Golf and Country Club, but rarely gets time to play. At his best, he was an eight handicap and is married to Doreen. “I have no children, but I have a lot of children given the juniors I work with. It’s a different relationship, they all call me Uncle Eric!” Who knows, maybe one of these kids toying around the Big Fish studio might go on to win the Masters one day. Till then Eric is content with creating equipment for a better round tomorrow.

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