Thailand Edition vol. 8
Choice Resorts The Els Club, Datai
The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula
KRUNG KAvEE Paradise on Green Space
The 19th
The Ford Plantation, Georgia Mystical Bhutan
Special Story TOP 10 Destinations on the Rise
magazine of the gm group golf vacations thailand vol.8 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2015 / 180 baht
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Welcome to 1st Anniversary Golf Vacations Thailand
25 February 2015
Krung Kavee Golf Course & Country Club Estate
• A friendly ‘Golf Competition’ sponsored by luxury brands. • Exclusive Dinner & Party. • Exclusive Test Drive on Krung Kavee’s runway. • The most exclusive opportunity for only Golf Vacations Thailand Magazine fans. Just merely tell us your team members of four on our Golf Vacations Thailand Facebook fan page and wait for the lucky announcement in the next issue.
Golf VacaTions
‘Time To Play’
the first
Jaermann & Stuebi creates the one and only watch for Golf Vacations magazine.
For enquiries, contact Paresa Collection on +65 6356 6298 and visit www.jaermann-stuebi.com. 6
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Two months back, we conducted our bi-annual poll through our readership base built over the past 27 years. Questions were asked about their travel habits, frequency and destinations, as well as retail preferences for luxury goods. they are also asked about the magazine and its readability. this poll serves as an indicator of trends in golf and luxury lifestyle, as well as tells us what our readers really think of us, and for all these years, it has proved to be an invaluable source for us learning how to improve ourselves for the benefit of our readership.
Each time we conduct this poll, we will offer a prize in return, usually a hotel stay or trip to one of our featured destinations. this time round, we have partnered with luxury Swiss watchmaker, Jaermann & Stuebi, to offer one lucky reader a bespoke, GV ‘time to Play’ mechanical watch limited to one piece only and valued at $12,610. A classically elegant first model of the Stroke Play Collection by Jaermann & Stuebi: the timepiece of Golf, created exclusively for Golf Vacations magazine, it is driven by an automatic caliber A10-2 movement with 25 jewels, and packed with 42 hours of power reserve. the patented mechanical golf counter features three different counter works that displays the number of strokes per hole, the hole currently in play and the total score and compares the total score with your handicap. the pushers are on the left hand side of the watch so they are not covered by the glove and thus avoiding contact with the wrist. It is also water resistant to 100 metres and will survive the elements while out on course. We would now like to formally congratulate our reader, Goh Kian Sin, who sent us his completed survey and was picked in our draw to be the winner and owner of the only Jaermann & Stuebi GV time to Play mechanical golf watch in the world. Other timepieces in the collection are also available including various limited edition series made from the irons of golfing legends such as the late Severiano Ballesteros and British multiple Major champion, Sir Nick faldo.
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Golf Vacations thailand Edition Vol.8 JanUaRY-fEBRUaRY 2015 KRUnG KaVEE Golf coURsE
Thailand Edition vol. 8
Choice Resorts The Els Club, Datai
The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula
KRUNG KAvEE Paradise on Green Space
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7.2 GV008008CN Trim_247x300 06-02-58
The 19th
The Ford Plantation, Georgia Mystical Bhutan
Special Story TOP 10 Destinations on the Rise
magazine of the gm group golf vacations thailand vol.8 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2015 / 180 baht
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GM MULTIMEDIA PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED Chairman & CEO : Pakorn Pongvarapa Executive Vice President : Finance Pornjitt Pongvarapa Executive Vice President : Business Development ritnarong kulprasoot Executive Vice President : Marketing Suebwong kaewthipharat Managing Editor : george Somapa Editor-in-Chief : Suebwong kaewthipharat Executive Art Director : PrateeP Putchimtuck Art Staff : kornratH ngamprasit Photographer : Damrongrit Sathitdamrongtham Computer Artist : PraSit anakananthpun Advertising/Marketing Manager : kongwarong Somsa Advertising/Marketing Staff : SantiPat Suksinchai kanokorn Channgam Production Manager : ratana khow General Manager : Panuwat Pongvarapa Finance Manager : wimonLak asaiphanit New Media Director : PeSiLP Pongvarapa Accounting Manager : niCHaPa buparanond Color Separation : kanoksilp (thailand) tel. +662 215 1588 Printing : oS. Printing House Co., Ltd. tel. +662 434 6850
Editor's Page What's your plan for 2015 Travel is for everyone. golf is for someone. If you can combine golf and travel with style together, it means you have a beautiful vacation. Check out this list before you go. Top 20 Global Destination Cities in 2014: Bangkok is the world's 2nd top ranked destination city. From Mastercard 2014 Global Destination Cities Index Top 10 City in Asia: Bangkok Top 5 Hotel Spas in Asia - The Penninsula Bangkok - Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai - Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai - Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai World's Best Family Travel (Asia Hotel) - No.1 JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa - *No.3 Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai - *No.3 The Penninsula Bangkok - No.9 Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok * Same Score Top 50 Hotels in The World - No.13 Penninsula Bangkok - No.27 Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai - No.28 Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai - No.48 Mandarin Oriental Bangkok By Travel & Leisure World's Best Award 2014 Asia's Top 10 Golf Courses: - No.1 Blue Canyon Country Club, Phuket Gold list 2015: The world's best hotels by Conde' Nast Traveler Thailand - Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai - Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai - Trisara, Phuket no doubt you should go to Thailand for your next trip. happy new year.
Suebwong Kaewthipharat editor-in-chief
Singapore Company: Pacom Media Pte Ltd Address: 801 Toa Payoh Lorong 7, #06-08, Wearnes Building, Singapore 319319 Tel: (65) 6323 9600 Publisher: Karen Chan Managing Editor: Benny Teo China, hong Kong & MaCau Company: Senasia Publication Group Ltd Address: Unit 832, 8/F, Metro Centre II, No. 21 Lam Hing Street, Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2570 6123 Website: www.senasia.com.hk Publisher: Alan Mok Managing Editor: Alex Tam CzeCh republiC Company: Resort Media s.r.o. Address: Škroupovo námestí 1255/9, 130 00 Prague 3, Czech Republic Tel: +420 271 773 934 Website: www.golfvacations.cz Publisher: Vera Hartmanova Managing Editor: Cenek Lorenc MalaySia Company: Big Shot Media Sdn Bhd address: 31-5, Block E1, Dataran Prima, Jalan PJU 1/42, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: +603 7880 2788 publisher: Louis Foo Managing editor: Benny Teo
Thailand
Company: GM Multimedia Public Company Limited Address: GM Group Building, 914, Rama 5 Road, Dusit, Bangkok 10300, Thailand Tel: +662 241 8000 Website: www.gvthailand.com Website: www.gmgroup.in.th E-mail: thepooh.gvthailand@gmail.com Facebook: facebook.com/ golfvacationsthailand Publisher: Pakorn Pongvarapa Editor-in-chief: Suebwong Kaewthipharat
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Contributors
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andrew Marshall
david J.whyte
A professional freelance travel writer for 20 years with over 50 countries under his belt, Andy works with his photographer brother Paul, particularly on golf. This issue, they troll the pubs of Dublin to bring us the best of the best. Andrew lives in a 17th century cottage on the outskirts of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire and can be found walking the Pennines with his partner Amanda on most weekends.
Scottish photographer, writer and videographer David J. Whyte has taken our Resort Academy trip to Sea Island in the state of Georgia this issue where he discovers the most technically sound golf school around. Tour players have been spotted here during practice, he says, as he chunks another one into the beautifully crafted range that is more manicured than some courses.
Paul is a professional photographer living in Stockholm with his wife, daughter and Welsh springer spaniel. He freelances with various reportage and portraiture work for various publications in Sweden, including golf, and works with his brother Andy on many of those, including this issue’s Dublin’s finest courses story.
Corporate communications professional Lester Lim takes leave from the drudgery of work to visit the happiest nation on earth – Bhutan – and comes back a revitalized human being. He tells us what life is like there, and what it’s like meeting and talking to a reincarnated lama, amongst other spiritual uplifts.
Paul Marshall
lester liM
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Contributors
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Brett Brasier
JaFri M.
The head professional at Reignwood Pine Valley Golf Club in Beijing, Brett is also a "Fellow of the PGA" and "AAA Classification" golf coach. The Australian national has happily adapted to the exciting world of Chinese golf and here, he brings us one of the finest routes in Hainan Island.
Jafri loves to travel, and he loves the spa but he also believes in learning cultures, while living amongst them, which is what he proposes in his column on UNESCO traveling – visiting sites of historical and cultural excellence to imbue in us a better sense of the world.
Our Californian-based correspondent took flight coast to coast for her latest trip to the Ford Plantation, which was once the abode of the late industrialist and motor mongul Henry Ford. The sprawling property has seen a large history of the south and has turned itself from home, to plantation to now a luxury heritage resort with a Pete Dye designed golf course that, in the spirit of change that is common here, is undergoing it as well.
Chris is deputy chief sub-editor on the London Evening Standard features desk, and a regular contributor to its travel pages. He has also worked at the Daily Telegraph and Sydney Morning Herald. Such is his love of golf, wine and cricket that it is a rare travel feature that does not include such passions. In this edition, he travels to Southeast Asia’s island of Langkawi to discover a new Ernie Els course in an old ground.
rosanne Zinniger
Chris Folley
Golf Vacations
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Journal ★ Comments
The Day I Met Jack Head professional at Beijing Reignwood Pine Valley Golf Club comments on his meeting with course designer and boyhood hero Jack Nicklaus.
It was a cold sunny Sunday morning
as I waited for the Rolls Royce to arrive. All the regular club staff knew somebody important was coming but had no idea of just who this American foreigner really was. But boy, do I. We are welcoming arguably the world’s greatest golfer to my golf club in Beijing. This was the man a small boy waited up to see on TV at 2am on many a cold British rainy morning. This man was my role model, he was the reason and inspiration that I practiced and practiced to become a professional golfer. He was the man I would try and watch play whenever he came to England. And here I was, caught up in a trance, thinking all these when he arrived and almost forgot to say, ‘hello’. There’s an old saying, “Time ripens all things. No man is born wise”, and I was disparately hoping that time had indeed placed some wisdom in me. However, I was not wholly convinced, as I could feel the start of a strange (somewhat old familiar feeling) of the inability to synchronize my voice and tongue with my brain, which then repeated as a sensation that continued as the day progressed. Apparently, I was still caught up in a young boy’s adulation of his idol. When the time came to actually shake his hand, I sounded like I was speaking a primitive language last heard from a tribe that was found deep in the Amazon. Nevertheless, Jack Nicklaus shook my hand and gave me a weary wide eyed (rather scared) first, and then second-look and stopped, while trying to think of how he could respond to this strangely delusional man wearing the golf club’s jacket. To his great credit, he did, with a comment and a smile that I’d seen a thousand times after a well struck golf shot. However, I could tell that I’d unsettled him (like a half-socket early in a round) as he moved quickly to the comforting environment of normal human beings. There was a pause in proceedings and I fell back into my trance as I remembered the first time I had met the world’s greatest golfer. It must have been over a quarter of a century ago that I found myself playing his home course, ‘Lost Tree’ in North Palm Beach, Florida. A young, naive British professional then, I was tasked with a review of that tract. The course was semi-private but nothing too swanky by American standards just a great course. It was early in the morning and the club was quiet, I walked through the men’s locker room and half noticed a lone man tying his shoelaces. I walked straight passed then something stopped me. The hours of watching this man’s every move on TV triggered my golfing sixth sense. I turned around and there he was, Jack Nicklaus!
I must have been standing there with my mouth open because when he looked up, he just smiled and said, “Hello.” I was so numb that all I could do was to return the greeting. Needless to say, I canceled my tee-time and watched him practice and walked around the course following his game with his friends for the rest of the day in an experience I will never forget. Now, much older but obviously none the wiser, I snapped out of past memories as I shook hands with his son and the rest of his entourage, who all eyed me with rapidly growing suspicion. We all then set off towards the holes that were to be changed. I regressed back into ‘past memory unconsciousness’ but was startled when suddenly, I heard the question, “Brett, what do you think?” It came from Jack. I froze and all I could think of was 18 majors, 73 PGA Tour wins, 58 seconds and 286 top 10 finishes - it’s times like these that the years of teaching and PGA education comes into play, and with all eyes on me, I managed to somehow say something that was remarkably coherent under the circumstances. Watching this legend of the game, now moving gracefully through his middle 70’s and eyeing golf holes and sketching new paths for fairways, bunkers, run-offs and greens was a wonderful learning experience for me, but what I’ll treasure forever really is simply just meeting and being close to my hero.
By Brett Brasier
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Postcard
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Chambers Bay, United States
Photography by Miller Brown
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Cartogolf
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Top 5 Fastest Greens The world’s fastest putting surfaces to test your short game.
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ROYAL TROON GOLF CLUB, AYRSHIRE, SCOTLAND
OAKMONT COUNTRY CLUB, CALIFORNIA, USA
GARY PLAYER COUNTRY CLUB AT SUN CITY, SOUTH AFRICA
KINGSTON HEATH, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
KOTA PERMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB, SELANGOR, MALAYSIA
The Championship Course at Royal Troon is a major championship track that is not long but has more than its fair share of bite on its upturned greens, especially at the world’s shortest and most hellishly fast Par 3 8th, called the “Postage Stamp.” 20
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When the US Open was played in 1935, Edward Stimpson watched from the gallery in awe as slick greens prevented players from breaking par, including Gene Sarazen sending one from green to bunker. There on, he was inspired to create, what would later be known as the Stimpmeter.
Site of the Nedbank Golf Challenge, the Sunshine Tour’s marquee event, this Gary Player course is renowned for being among the finest in all of Africa, its greens running easily past 11 on the stimpmeter on an average day.
The fastest greens in Australia, Kingston Heath’s putting surfaces are known to be generous but demand precisely struck approaches with backspin to hold the greens. When Tiger won the 2009 Australian Masters there, he immediately fell in love with the true surfaces of this Sandbelt course.
Malaysia’s fastest greens by recognition from those who’ve played here, Kota Permai most recently won “Best Course in Malaysia” at the recent Asia Golf Awards, which many believe, is a testament to the reputation of its putting surface.
Journal ★ Design
Quivira Golf Club
The newest Jack Nicklaus Signature Course on a stupendously majestic cliff-top in Mexico’s Baja Peninsula.
What a stormy start to a launch. Just merely two months ago,
Hurricane Odile set its monstrous rage across Mexico’s Baja Peninsula and threatened to make invalid one of the latest gems to arrive in the golfing world. If Mother Nature had her way, Quivira Golf Club in Los Cabos would’ve had the least rounds played in the lifespan of a golf course. Thankfully, like a critical infant fighting for survival and wanting to show the world what it was capable of, the storm came, left, and the newly built tract, together with the other resort properties like Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos, Rosé, Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort and Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, could still open for business. Funny thing is, Los Cabos has been touted as a destination revered for its consistently sunny weather and unique mountain-desert-ocean ecosystem. According to Director of Golf Brad Wheatley, the dramatic 7,139-yard layout at the tip of the Baja Peninsula marked by massive dunes, sheer cliffs and desert foothills, sustained minor sand intrusion and cactus loss but otherwise weathered the storm well. The beachfront clubhouse was also relatively unscathed by the hurricane. Fast forward to December 4 and anticipating the official opening of what may likely be the most majestic course in Nicklaus’s storied resume, Quivira Golf Club will welcome numerous dignitaries, resort executives, international media and property owners for a ceremonial tee off on the 12th hole with owner and developer Coppel Kelly, Marcos Gov. Alberto Covarrubias Villasenor of the State of Baja California Sur, and the legendary Golden Bear himself. Marked by huge windswept dunes, sheer granite cliffs and rolling desert foothills 10 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas, Quivira, the sixth Jack Nicklaus-designed course in Los Cabos, is a masterpiece poised to redefine the Cabo golf experience.
“This is one of the great pieces of property in the world,” Nicklaus said. “We tried to create some excitement on the mountain and in the dunes, and I believe we’ve created a golf course that plays as spectacular as it looks.” In addition to its stunning panoramas and sharp drops from tee to fairway, Quivira offers players more oceanfront exposure than any other course in Los Cabos. All 18 holes feature panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, which swells with breaching whales during the winter months. Completing the experience at Quivira Golf Club is a stylish, thatched-roof clubhouse between the first tee and 18th green that offers a large rectangular bar, a casual steakhouse, and ample outdoor seating overlooking the sea. Beside the clubhouse is a spacious double-ended practice facility that parallels the ocean, as well as an elongated practice putting green and an expanded short-game practice area. Quivira Golf Club is accessible to guests of the four Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas in Los Cabos, and to owners of properties in Copala, Montecristo Estates Luxury Villas, and Novaispania Residences. Each of the Pueblo Bonito Resorts welcomes guests with lavish accommodations, unsurpassed service, fine dining and a host of on-site amenities. Complimentary shuttle service to and from Quivira Golf Club is included within the Quivira development. www.quiviragolfclub.com
By BENNy TEO
Golf Vacations
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Journal ★ Travel
Travelling Right
UK-based No. 1 Traveller makes flying a thing of ease and luxury from the moment you step out of your home to the moment you return.
Airports can be very stressful places
with long check-in lines, lengthy queues for extensive security checks, and then having to wait for your flight in what is effectively a very noisy, high-pressure shopping mall. Much better to have a luxurious lounge to relax in just waiting for you once you've passed that time-consuming security check. Even better still if you have access to the fast track security line, and perhaps best of all, if you have a chauffeur-driven silver Mercedes to take you to the airport and pick you up when you arrive. That way you avoid the stress Gatwick north's Terminal of driving to the airport and paying for long-term car parking. All these services are provided by a company called No. 1 Traveller No. 1 Traveller's fast track security access is priceless who have their own lounges in the UK at Birmingham airport, when otherwise you'd be faced with the kind of lengthy London Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted. They also have partnership queues awaiting the security check that are prevalent at lounges at airports all over the world including three at Singapore's most airports these days. And having their chauffeurChangi airport. driven Mercedes just waiting for you in the UK when you The lounge at London Gatwick's South terminal has won Priority Pass arrive for that longed for golf holiday in the home of golf Lounge of the Year awards for the last two years, as voted for by frequent is another plus. As is being driven to the airport by them flyers, and has a great bistro menu with complimentary food and drink, when your brilliant golf holiday, or business trip, is over. panoramic runway views, TVs, complimentary magazines, free wi-fi and Two of No. 1 Traveller's UK lounges, at London luxurious and comfortable seating spread over two floors. It's a great place Heathrow Terminal Three and London Gatwick North to start your journey. The lounges in Singapore - the Skyview Lounge Terminal, also have Travel Spas providing a wide range of in Terminal One, the Ambassador Transit Lounge in Terminal Two, and massage treatments to rejuvenate you pre- or post flight. the Dnata Lounge in Terminal Three – provide the same complimentary In addition, their lounge at Heathrow Terminal Three has facilities plus showers. single and twin bedrooms for anyone experiencing a long wait between connecting flights and might like to get some proper sleep on a real bed whilst waiting. And one other service they provide is a VIP Departure and Arrival Service with porters to assist with luggage, and personal travel concierge to fast-track through check-in, security and immigration. This can be particularly useful on arrival when you need assistance with visa application or if the airline loses one of your suitcases. All told, No. 1 Traveller is a service for the modern era and anyone flying these days belong to there. Gatwick South's Terminal
Stansted
www.no1traveller.com
Heathrow
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By To n y S m a rT
Journal ★ Culture
Historic Luxury
Imbued with deep cultural and historical significance, UNESCO Heritage sites are priceless to humanity.
my Son Sanctuary
Terracotta Warriors
Luang Prabang
Inspiring indeed. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) actively seeks out, protects and preserves outstanding cultural heritage the world over. Far-flung and diverse places they may be, but a deep universal bond binds them all, inspiring future generations with a sense of place and time, a reminder of how far we’ve come as a civilization. These world heritage sites span the globe from Egypt’s wondrous pyramids to Australia’s magical Great Barrier reefs, making travel to these finite sites a different kind of vacation - an exploration and an adventure. And certainly, it is equally laudable when iconic hospitality brands lend their fervent support as well. With the Banyan Tree and Angsana Hotel and Resorts Group, discerning travelers and culture buffs can embark on some truly amazing heritage sites, experiencing rich historical journeys, infused with luxury; who says an adventure needs to be tiring? In Laos, there is the former French colony Luang Prabang, called the City of Monks. It was the Laotian royal capital between the 16th and 19th century, and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Proffering panoramic views of the iconic Mekong River, soaring mountains and old monasteries, must-visits include the Royal Palace, Mount Phousi and the famous Pak Ou caves with Buddha imagery. Angsana Maison Souvannaphoum, a former royal residence, makes for a great base from which to explore the historic town.
Central Vietnam offers some UNESCO World Heritage sites, like the ruins of My Son, the ancient capital of Hue, and the charming town of Hoi An. My Son Sanctuary, for instance, which encompasses connecting temples and towers, was an imperial city during the Cham dynasty from the 4th to 12th centuries. Close to the sites lies Banyan Tree Lăng Cô and Angsana Lăng Cô,. Banyan Tree Lăng Cô offers 49 all-pool villas while Angsana Lăng Cô has 229 stylish suites and overlooks a 3km beach. In Mexico, there is the sacred site of the preHispanic City of Chichen-Itza, a memorable Mayan centre of the Yucatan peninsula. And the Banyan Tree Mayakoba on the Riviera Maya, set amidst mangroves and forests and coral reefs, is a 2.5 hour drive from Chichen-Itza. Some other UNESCO heritage sites near Banyan Group hotels and resorts include Emperor Qin’s Terracotta Warriors, some 15 minutes from Angsana Xi’an Lintong; West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, about 30 minutes from Banyan Tree Hangzhou and Angsana Hangzhou, and Changdeokgung Palace Complex, just 30 minutes from Banyan Tree Club & Spa in Seoul. Revel in history, reside in plush. www.banyantree.com www.angsana.com
By J a f r i m.
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Cover Story
Krung Kavee Paradise on Green Space - T E X T BY P O N S a N N O k N O u m, PaT i P O l a N u v E j - P H OTO G R a P H Y BY Da m R O N G R i T S aT H i T Da m R O N G T H a m, P R aS i T a N a k a N a N T H P u N
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It’s quite rare to see a golf
course and property project on the same piece of private land that is abundant with lushly green space stretching out for almost 1,000 rai. This property project features an impressive landscape with a golf course functioning as the center of its ecosystem as well as a great companion to its residents, animals, and the environment. All this does not happen by coincidence but by an aspiration of a man who fantasizes of building a real estate project having environmental concerns as the heart of the project. His particular idea and determination has finally materialized into this “Krung Kavee Golf Course and Country Club Real Estate Project”, a real estate project that combines both housing estate and golf course together on the same property where Thainess is honorably preserved even in its project name. Every inch of the interior design accentuates the Thainess element while its landscape design emphasizes on being environmentally friendly. Not only did the project erase former misconception that a golf course destroys the environment, it has made the course the center of its holistic ecosystem. Moreover, travelling to this property is easier than you would expect. After a short ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport, you would be sitting comfortably in its sumptuous clubhouse, sipping tea by the nature and all the greenery around you. These are what Krung Kavee can offer to its golfers and property members. And speaking as one who just visited the property, Golf Vacations is pleased to recommend this golf course, a real paradise on a lushly green sanctuary, to all professional golfers to play on this course with the sight and sound of nature. Nature that requires no travelling to outer provinces will surely make you fall in love with “Krung Kavee.”
Golfing in the Middle of “Nature” at Krung Kavee
The perk of social sport such as golf is while playing golf which is relaxing, you can also relax and get surrounded by nature at all times. But it is not very often to come across a course that fills its space with so many trees and plants, and was developed based on landscaping and conservational principles in order to provide a safe and sustainable environment-friendly space. If you are to look up for a golf course that is both environmentally friendly and golfer friendly, we are sure that there will be no course as good as the “Krung Kavee” golf course. Built two decades ago, this course attempted to offer an answer to the question of how to build plenty of green space to give pleasure to golfers and shelter to other creatures without harming the environment. The design was carefully crafted by Ajarn Kanok Vienravee, an academic and expert in landscape planning and environmental preservation, who has applied his knowledge in both areas to design the landscape of this golf course. His landscape design pays close attention to shady and lushly space of its ecosystem by occupying every space of this nearly 1,000 rai piece of property with animals and different kinds of plants that are hard to find in the heart of the city. This is intended to create a new image in golf course construction. Golf Vacations
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In designing this golf course, Ajarn Kanok has cooperated with an experienced golf course architect, Manabu Sakamoto, a Japanese-American golf course architect who has designed over 40 courses, in order to make Krung Kavee the perfect dream golf destination for golfers with a unique experience surrounded by friendly and harmonious environment. In addition to erasing the misconception that building a golf course destroys the environment, at Krung Kavee Golf Course, Ajarn Kanok has amazingly used his knowledge and skill to turn this course into a self-sufficient ecosystem sanctuary that is abundant with a diverse range of animals and plant species. Such environmental friendly surrounding in a golf course is no longer a myth since the development of the Krung Kavee Project as many different government and private organizations, as well as many educational institutions, have come to observe and learn about its operation. In fact, its effective flood prevention system helped Krung Kavee to survive the recent major flood incident without any damage due to its carefully laid-out structure that had been planned since the initial construction, not just recently. Furthermore, the area that is used for flood prevention has been developed into a beautiful Linear Park in order to provide splendid scene of the landscape and an area to store a variety of plants for further studies. As for its golf course, Krung Kavee is classified as a Championships 18-hole, par 72 course, with a total fairway length of almost 7,200 yards, perfectly suited for either tournament events or just causal games. Unlike the typical Core Course configuration where fairways alternate back and forth, Krung Kavee is the only course in Thailand that uses the Single Fairway continuous 26
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course configuration giving golfers peace of mind from being hit by flying balls from returning fairways. Even though such course configuration requires more space than regular courses, since additional spaces are required to make more roughs and fairways where they cannot be shared as in the Core Course configuration, Ajarn Kanok is willing to allow for additional space in order to create what is best for the environment and golfers. All of the 18-plus holes of Krung Kavee Golf Course fully demonstrate the architectural skill used in its landscape design with big and small trees alternating on each hole and scenic views that change according to the corresponding landscape of each hole. The spectacular view at Krung Kavee Golf Course has gained praise from many golfers and led them to spread the words, thus, making the task of public relations unnecessary. All of its public relations has come from word of mouth of golfers. Despite being originally viewed as a member-only course, the course welcomes all golfers. But golfers will be banned immediately should it be found that they have violated the course’s regulations so as not to disturb other golfers. Why does Krung Kavee have to invest in building a Single Fairway Configuration course? In addition to avoiding interruption from flying balls from unknown direction and creating opportunity to maximize the changing landscape view of each hole, the benefit of this particular course configuration is that it allows greatly more efficient drainage system than the Core Course configuration system. On a regular course, a heavy rain would flood the course causing the play to be discontinued. But at Krung Kavee, the course is capable of draining all the water within 15-20 minutes after the rain stops. Additionally, the course is equipped with an irrigation system that is ready to handle the drainage. So, say no
more to the problem of non-cooperative weather. No more spoilers for those who rarely have the chance to enjoy a pleasant round of golf. With regard to the varying ranges of golfers’ skills, Manabu Sakamoto, the golf course architect, has it covered when designing the course by factoring in the competence and fairness for golfers. The course has equal amount of left and right dog legs in order to level the playing field for golfers with tendency to either draw or fade. As the most delicate part in a golf course, the green here gives golfers peace of mind since they are spacious and soft allowing you to get on easily. Thus, the course is designed to make it fair for golfers who are good at driving the ball and golfers with good skills on the green. At Krung Kavee Golf Course, it is guaranteed that all the 14 clubs you have brought along will be used to make all the necessary game-changing shots, especially the Fairway Wood that is most suitable to be used on the fairway grass. Henceforth, Krung Kavee Golf Course is considered as a Championship Golf Course that meets all golfers’ needs. It is the course for professional golfers as well as a practice course for rookie players. The course is very safe to play and good for your health which is a direct consequence of a well-managed biological control (which is a treatment using biological system and nontoxic chemicals to preserve the grass and trees) that is safe for the environment and certainly safe for golfers of all sexes and ages. For those who would like to go for a round need not to worry about getting there. Ajarn Kanok points out in an interview that those who have never been to Krung Kavee Golf Course think it’s far, so they end up arriving before the regulars and wondering why they get there so fast. This is because Krung Kavee Golf Course is located in a light traffic area and next to the exit of BangnaRamintra-Bangpa-in Motorway making the journey convenient. It takes only 40 minutes from Suvarnabhumi Airport or less than 30 minutes if coming from Don Muang Airport or Rangsit area. Frankly speaking, Krung Kavee Golf Course is another alternative destination for golfers in the city wanting to play a round of relaxing golf away from work or with their golf buddies in a natural environment that is not far from the heart of the business center of Bangkok. For out-of-town golfers, the course can also be reached within 40 minutes after landing from the airport. Very convenient indeed.
There are over 100 local Thai botanical species around Krung Kavee Golf Course. If you are to look around the golf course, you will notice all the lakes and canals around the course. And this is also a chance to enjoy its water based landscape which not only creates natural division between housing project and the course, and helps with the draining system, but also helps adjust the atmosphere, the temperature, and the moisture providing a rare Micro Climate condition causing the temperature to be 1-2 degrees lower than outside the project. The layout of
the golf course is spread through out the property project providing confidence for house owners that their property will not be changed in the future.
Meeting every aspect of your needs, there is no other place except at Krung Kavee Golf Course.
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RaNgsIt KItCheN
Facilities with Krung Kavee’s Touch
Clubhouse
In addition to the golf course, other facilities meeting the demands of golfers are something that Ajarn Kanok had planned since the project conception. And the most important space which serves as the relaxing and meeting area is its clubhouse. The clubhouse had undergone a recent renovation, sticking with the same design principles, allowing everyone to fully enjoy its natural surroundings. A modern style clubhouse, a mix of Thai and Asian flare in gold-and-grey color tone provides a warm yet lively expression replicating the traditional Thai architecture. Designed by professional interior designer, the perfect balance between aesthetics and the surrounding allows golfers to be closer to nature. The clubhouse is divided into 3 areas; The building that is affixed with clear windows all around – the highlight is the unlimited 360 degree visibility of the exterior view of the Krung Kavee Golf Course that is abundant with a wide range of plants. The interior of the clubhouse is spacious and airy with stunning chandeliers and furniture that are stylish and modern. External area that mimics an outdoor glasshouse – the “Glasshouse” which occupies this 100-square-meter space is truly a place to relax. The interior design of this glasshouse is romantic and perfect for those who want to escape the city’s commotions just to relax with a special someone while having excellent foods and drinks or just to enjoy their pleasurable gathering. Wooden terrace over the lotus pond – a relaxing and spacious openair space to let you catch the breezy air coming from all directions and stay side-by-side with the nature. You can enjoy the view of the lotus pond and the verdurous ecosystem of this course.
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Locker room Krung Kavee Golf Course also offers locker room for its male and female patrons. There are 200 lockers, showers, and separated toilets for privacy, a full range of toiletries and amenities including towel, soap, shampoo, warm and cold water for the convenience of golfers and all other patrons.
Inside the clubhouse is the renowned restaurant, the “Rangsit Kitchen”, which Krung Kavee proudly presents. Besides its international cuisine, the “Rangsit Kitchen” serves authentic royal Thai cuisine and Thai fusion dishes that are tasty to real Thai standards earning the certificate of the “Shell Chuan Chim” award. Open for more than 20 years, the Rangsit Kitchen has received compliments from Thai and international golfers. The origin of the Rangsit Kitchen came from the love and passion in cooking of the Executive Director, Sayumporn Vienravee, a lady who is equipped with impressive looks and qualities, particularly her exceptional skill in cooking and expertise in Thai menu that has its origin from royal cuisine, rare traditional dishes that are hard to find nowadays. Sayumporn has integrated all cooking secrets to come up with the menu that is exclusively served at Rangsit Kitchen. At the moment, Rangsit Kitchen offers over 100 dishes, including Thai, Japanese, and international dishes, on its menu. The dishes are prepared by one of the top chefs in Thailand whose cooking principles are cleanliness and the use of fresh, new, and good quality ingredients to make exquisite tasting food that is worthy of its “Shell Chuan Chim” award. The 5 dishes that earn the “Shell Chuan Chim” award are the Mee Krob Chao Wang, Nam Prik Long Ruea, Kung Tent Krua Rangsit, Roast Spare Ribs, and Deep Fried Spring Rolls. On your visit, these 5 dishes are must-try; otherwise, you have not really made it at the Krung Kavee.
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Krung Kavee
a green project that is part of the nature.
It’s not too often to have a chance to talk with someone in the midst of a symphony of birds from different species and a constant relaxing breeze of winter air coming through a lush field of big and small trees. This kind of atmosphere reminds us of somewhere in a national park or forest in the north, but in reality, we are at Klong 4, Amphur Thanyaburi, Patumthani, which is amazingly not even 100 meters away from the Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok Road. It was like we have escaped to another world.
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Ajarn KANOK VIENRAVEE Personally, Ajarn Kanok loves to ride a motorcycle due to the convenience and speed it offers, particularly when he travels to teach at other provinces. He has his favorite ride parked outside ready for him to ride to teach students at Chiang Mai University. Or if he has time, he would ride it to enjoy the sight of the near-by provinces. As for in Bangkok, he has another favorite motorcycle that he rides to supervise the construction around the Krung Kavee Project.
We are inside the “Krung Kavee golf Course and Country Club estate”, an empire occupying almost 1,000 rai of green space that was built by an expert
in the art of landscape planning and environmental management. He has architected Krung Kavee project to be filled with green space and golf course style landscape across the entire area. It is difficult to find competing projects in an area near the capital city that can match the beauty of this project. Riding on the approaching gorgeous red Ducati Monster M795 for our appointment is the man who founded Krung Kavee, Ajarn Kanok Vienravee who is an academic with forward vision. He has undoubtedly managed to integrate both the principle of landscape planning and environmental management together. “I am not a good marketing person. I have to admit that when I built this project, I was weak in marketing approach.”, Ajarn Kanok told us when asked about his business strategy. Then, he goes on to say that… “I am a good product inventor because I have all the knowledge related to managing the landscape of a golf course and its surrounding area. If it were other investors, they would probably hire someone. But I supervise and control everything. Perhaps, I am the first golf course owner in Thailand that supervises and takes charge in all of the landscaping jobs since I have the knowledge and expertise in grass lawn and golf course from my study when I was doing my Master’s Degree in America. Especially, the landscaping jobs that have to constantly be done, how can I let someone else do it since this land belongs to my family. It’s more than 100 years old legacy from my grandfather. When I was a kid, my grandfather told me to take good care of this piece of land because it’s unlikely to find another piece of land that is the same as this one. This piece of land is not only big, covering 1000 rai, but its area also connects directly with the roads and Klong Rangsit. I didn’t quite understand it back then”, Ajarn Kanok laughed then continued talking about his childhood memories.
“When I was older, I had the opportunity to study abroad but my experience was not so good. Over there, they treated Asian people like second-class citizens. So, I had this idea to develop this land in order to show foreigners that Thai people are also talented by using the skills that I have learnt. And 20 years ago, golf course was booming so I decided to build a golf course since I would gain the additional green space that I always wanted. Can you imagine any other businesses that would give you green space? If it’s not an agriculture business, it has to be a golf course. And if it weren’t a golf course, where would I get the money to pay for the cost of maintaining all the green space that I want to have. So, the golf course is the solution. A golf course does not destroy the environment. In my view, a golf course can be built to be the center of an ecosystem if we understand the art of landscaping. Besides a golf course, I also get a property that targets at upper-class clientele. But of course, the business model of Krung Kavee still focuses on the environment first because we do not only create the facilities for human beings but also create green space for other living animals to share the space with us.” At the beginning stage of Krung Kavee’s construction, Ajarn Kanok wanted to make the area as an experiment since he is interested in observing how to develop a property in order to preserve the environment without threatening the nature. Therefore, every inch of the project area is built for sustainable land use, not just for cosmetic landscape beauty. Such development principle and strategy were really being put in practice in this living laboratory at Krung Kavee. The project has earned Ajarn Kanok Vienravee the honor of being selected the recipient of the “Quality Business Person of the Year” Award in Property Development from the Foundation of Science and Technology Council of Thailand (FSTT). As a teacher, academic, and practitioner, Ajarn Kanok is sharing his knowledge with students. “At present, I am an honorary guest lecturer at the Department of Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, and guest lecturer at the Department of Plant Science and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University. Additionally, I have created a study program that allows “landscape architecture” and “local nature” to be integrated together perfectly under a curriculum called “Landscape Design and Environmental Management” of the Department of Plant Science and Natural Resources, Faculty of
Agriculture, Chiang Mai University. This is the first time that this type of curriculum, a new area of study, is being offered in Thailand. The new program aims at producing landscape designers with deep, well-rounded knowledge and understanding of the environmental conditions in order to create landscape design that is based on a balance between preserving and developing, including restoring a landscape or an ecosystem that was destroyed by human actions. And this is something I have demonstrated through Krung Kavee.” If Krung Kavee were a man, would he be like you?, we asked. “I am not so sure,” he replied instantly. “But it proves that Thai people can do something great if they put their heart into it. Krung Kavee is a place that best mimics the landscape of nature and it shows that everyone is capable of living with the nature without harming them. Actually, there is a reason why I use the name Krung Kavee, I chose to use the word “Kavee” because a poet is someone who looks around him through the eyes of an artist. He would see through the impermanent layer to its very core. Therefore, it is intended to say this is the place for people who look at things at its very core, who want to pursue a simple lifestyle, be with nature, and the environment that is well preserved. You would never imagine how nature can refine your soul when you live with it every day. By the time you realize it, you end up becoming someone who loves nature and someone who has a good heart. It is because of the nature.” We nodded along in agreement. Just sitting here and having this conversation in the middle of the nature that surrounded us, we felt our souls were being refined by the nature. Then we dropped the final question about the future of Krung Kavee, “In the future, we plan to expand our development to include perhaps a condominium and a hotel, although they won’t be adjacent to each other. With the abundance of space here, of course, the two would be kilometers apart. I will turn this place into a small city, deserving of the word “Krung”. I don’t know when it will be fully completed, but I will definitely not build an abandoned city for sure. Ultimately, the most distinctive feature that will be preserved is nature. No matter how civilized and developed this city is, it will remain a city with the most delicate green space and dedication”. Ajarn Kanok left his final words with great determination in his eyes and we had no doubt except for our support to offer. Golf Vacations
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Your 'Home' in 'Our' nature. New generations often look for a condominium or apartment to fill their 4th element of needs. But that type of accommodation may not be enough for someone who is settling down his or her family. At Krung Kavee, we offer the solution for those who prefer to live near the city but surrounded by nature and a flawless ecosystem on a property that is almost 1,000 rai. The land parallels to Klong Rangsit for a distance of just one kilometer down onto the 5th Klong, making it accessible from intersections of many main roads. Krung Kavee is well positioned to accommodate future expansions from the capital city and is also considered as one of Thailand’s outstanding real estate projects.
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Krung Kavee Project was originated by the passion of Ajarn Kanok Vienravee to preserve and develop this nearly 1000-rai land of his ancestor into a project that captures all his imaginations with identity. In addition to not entirely focusing on the profit, Ajarn Kanok’s project is considered to be the only project in Thailand that its landscape planning has successfully incorporated lushly green space, canals and lakes that added pleasant shades and breezes in every section of the project providing residents with a full relaxation of their body and soul. Krung Kavee is a property project that gives home buyers the opportunity to build their own homes on its property land plot ranging between 284-865 square wah with initial price starting from 13.5 million baht (the current average price per square wah is between 45,000-65,000 baht). The purchased land is located within this wonderful environment comprising of big and small trees and designed to be surrounded by lakes and canals. Additionally, you have the option of customized home construction on a property sized between 106-434 square wah with price ranging from 23-68 million baht or you can build a home on your own chosen property plot. There are also ready-to-move in single homes designed by experts with great emphasis on consumers’ value and not solely on profit-making. These single homes come in 3 options with functional space ranging between 428-717 square meters with price starting from 26 million baht. Before construction, to personalize the home to your desire, home buyers have the option to customize the interior design based on these available options:
1) Ruean Manop – the home features
428.62 square meters of functional space with 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and parking space for 3 cars. The master bedroom is spacious with walk-in closet connecting to the bathroom that is separated into indoor and outdoor space allowing for occasional outdoor showers to enjoy the nature at Krung Kavee. The second and third bedrooms include built-in closet and dresser, and personal balcony to catch the outside air. Other than that, there are dining room and living room at the center area which is more than 10 meters wide. Finally, this home type also includes a private pavilion. Depending on property area and zone, Ruean Manop’s price starts at 23 million baht.
2) Ruean Dusit – for this home type, it features 592.24 square meters of functional space with 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and parking space for 3 cars. The guest bedroom is spacious with tall windows that can be opened to fully capture the outside view of nature. In addition, the entrance leading to the dining room has a big long window that can be opened to enjoy the beautiful view of different lotus species. Ruean Dusit’s master bedroom is extra spacious with walk-in closet connecting to the bathroom which separates wet and dry areas and includes a Jacuzzi installed on the outer deck with terrace allowing you to enjoy every morning breeze. Then, there are the second and third bedrooms that come with built-in closet and dresser, balcony to enjoy the outside view, and bathroom with bathtub installed in a separate area. Depending on property area and zone, Ruean Dusit’s price starts at 36 million baht. 3) Ruean Supharurk – a home for a big family offering 717.50 square meters of functional space with 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, and parking space for 4 cars. The home is strategically positioned to allow for a panoramic view of the canal with a wide variety of lotus’s species. It also offers an extra-large and airy living room with its ceiling height exceeding 6 meters. The living room space leads to the dinning room that can occupy a 12-seat dining table. For the master bedroom of Ruean Supharurk, it occupies one third of the upper floor space with stand-alone walk-in closet that connects to a study room providing convenience to its room occupant. The master bedroom includes a bathroom with Jacuzzi and Rain Shower in its personal private garden. Another key feature of this home type is the 12x6 meter swimming pool with a depth of 1.20 meters that connects to the outdoor Jacuzzi allowing residents for maximum relaxation with nature inside the Krung Kavee. Depending on property area and zone, the starting price is 51 million baht.
For the convenience of its residents, Krung Kavee has introduced a 'Privilege Home Services' (PHS) which is an after-sales service that is equivalent to a personal helper service to take care of all house related activities in order to provide maximum convenience to its residents whether it be house cleaning, gardening, home monitoring, car maintenance, food delivery service from Rangsit Kitchen, and other types of services.
At Krung Kavee Project, the roadway within the project is wider than standards and there are 2 entrance ways in case of emergency. The power system is installed underground allowing residents to enjoy the pleasant view of the project. Commuting to and from the project is easy since the project is close to many main roads. The project offers a high standard security system. Homes and properties were planned to be clustered together on an island for the safety of its residents. During the recent major flood incident, Krung Kavee was the only property that was not affected by the flood since it has a well-managed system installed since the project conception. With such great facilities, every type of this project property, ready-to-move in single homes, made-to-order homes, or land plots, can all add value in the future for buyers to pass on as their legacy. This legacy will never lose value starting from the very first second you decide to invest and continue well into the future where it can be assured that at one point in the future, no matter how much money your have, you will not be able to buy a project with such identity that is being offered today by Krung Kavee Project. Golf Vacations
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Legends
Bobby Jones
Forget Tiger, Jack and Hogan, this Southern gent puts them all in the shade. - BY Gavin newsham
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Until the astronaut and all-American hero John Glenn came
along with his stories of space exploration and intergalactic bragging, there had been only one man in the history of the United States who had been honoured with two ticker tape parades in New York City. And it wasn’t Babe Ruth. Or Jack Dempsey. No, that honour went to a man who achieved more in his field than any other exponent; a man who was known across the world as a gentleman first and a golfer second; a man who, quite simply, was the best there has ever been. That man was Bobby Jones. Robert Tyre ‘Bobby’ Jones Jr was born on St Patrick’s Day, 1902 in Atlanta, Georgia. The son of a prominent local lawyer, Colonel Robert P. Jones, Bobby Jones was feted from an early age as the future of American golf. It was entirely justified. Despite never having a formal golf lesson in his young life, Jones won junior championships with obscene ease, beating boys five, six, seven years older than him and appearing in magazines and newspapers because of his prodigious talent on the golf course.
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A committed amateur, Bobby Jones had the lot; intelligence, matinee idol looks and charisma by the truck load. He could play a bit, too. Unerringly straight off the tee and deadly on the dance floor, he was the complete golfing machine. But it was his swing, the swing, that really caught the eye. Smooth, unfussy and seemingly effortless, it was so effective, so sweet, that in time it would become the benchmark for every golfer across the world. “One might as well attempt to describe the smoothness of the wind,” said the sports writer Grantland Rice, “as to paint a clear picture of his complete swing.” Indeed, the only question mark over the young Bobby Jones was his temperament. Headstrong and impetuous, he often incurred the wrath of the USGA and the R&A for his bouts of rage on the golf course. Once, on his debut at St Andrews in the 1921 Open Championship, he walked off the course during his third round after an outward nine of 46 and a double bogey on the tenth. Legend has it, that he even tore up his scorecard as he stormed off the course in disgust. He didn’t. Instead, he played in the afternoon, shooting a creditable 72, even though it counted for nothing.
Again, at the 1929 US Open at Winged Foot, Jones insisted that the 36-hole play-off on Sunday be delayed so that his opponent Al Espinosa could attend church. But even divine intervention couldn’t help Espinosa. When the match ended, Jones had trounced him by 23 strokes. By 1930, there seemed little more for Bobby Jones to achieve in the game. With a record already boasting nine Major titles in just seven years, he had proved unequivocally that he was the pre-eminent golfer of his era. Only a Grand Slam of the four Majors (The British Amateur, the Open Championship, the US Open and the US Amateur) had avoided him. But if any player was going to do it, it was Bobby Jones. His first test would be the British Amateur at St Andrews where Jones was in imperious form. After an awkward 3&2 win over the Nottinghamshire coal miner Henry Roper in the first round, Jones progressed to the 36-hole final, taking the title with a comfortable 7&6 victory over Roger Wethered, the brother of the legendary British female champion Joyce Wethered.
"He played less golf than any other great players in his era, entering only a handful of events each season. He was, in effect, a part-time player." But the local press were less than enamoured with Jones’s petulance. One paper even reported that “Master Bobby is just a boy, and an ordinary boy at that”. Later that year, he skulled an approach in the US Amateur Championship at St Louis and was so incensed that he hurled his niblick straight into a female spectator’s leg and narrowly escaped disciplinary action from the USGA. The threat of a ban was enough, however, to change the attitude of Bobby Jones forever. Gone was the angry young man of before. No longer would he throw clubs and cuss. Instead, the kind, gracious person that everybody knew off the course finally became the player everybody would come to know on it, and with it came the kind of success that would confirm him as the finest player the game had seen. Even in the heat of competition, Jones was nothing but the perfect sportsman. In the 1925 US Open at Worcester Country Club, for instance, he called a penalty on himself when he thought his ball had moved at address. Curiously, nobody but Jones had seen the ball move but the penalty would put him into a play-off with Willie Macfarlane, who duly defeated Jones the next day. Soon after, Jones was asked about this act of sportsmanship. “There’s only one way to play the game,” he replied. “You might as well praise a man for not robbing a bank as to praise him for playing by the rules.”
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Weeks later at the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool at Hoylake, Jones emerged from a three-way battle with Leo Diegel and Macdonald Smith to become the first amateur player to win the Claret Jug three times. Halfway to history, Jones duly took the third leg, the US Open at Interlachen Country Club, complete with a 10,000-strong crowd following his every move around the course. Three down, one to go. By the time the US Amateur at Merion arrived, it seemed pre-ordained that Jones would complete the first Grand Slam in golf history, not least because he had survived a double run-in with death in the weeks preceding – first when he narrowly missed being killed by lightning during a game with friends at East Lake and then, weeks later, when he was nearly knocked over by a runaway car as he walked down the street. The championship itself would be a cakewalk. With its matchplay format, a Merion course he knew only too well – he won his first US Amateur title there – and a partisan crowd behind him, he eased into the final against the 22-yearold Eugene Homans. In the 36-hole match, Jones coasted to a seven-hole lead at the halfway point and when his opponent missed a birdie putt at the 29th hole, the title and the Grand Slam belonged to Jones. “I did not feel like saying I had planned it all because I felt reluctant to admit that I considered myself capable of such an accomplishment,” wrote Jones later in his book Golf Is My Game. “But at this point, separated from the facts by so many years this reticence seems a bit silly. Actually I did make plans
for that golfing year with precisely this end in view, and so prepared myself more carefully than I had ever done before.” When the celebrations subsided, Jones told the Associated Press that he wasn’t sure when and where he would play golf again, although he fully expected to carry on. A little over six weeks later, though, he had decided to call time on his stellar career, aged just 28. The truth was that even though he had played in only 52 events (winning 23 of them), there was now nothing left for Jones to achieve in golf. Certainly, his record was nothing short of astonishing. From 1923 to his retirement in 1930, Jones won 13 of the 21 national championships he entered, taking four US Opens, three Open Championships, five US Amateurs and one British Amateur title. Of the last 12 Opens in which Jones competed, he won seven and was only out of the top two places on one occasion, while in six of his last nine US Opens, he won four and lost twice in play-offs. He was also an unflappable competitor capable of some prodigious scoring. In the run-up to the 1928 Walker Cup match at the Chicago Golf Club, he shot 12 rounds in 69, 71, 69, 68, 68, 68, 67, 68, 67, 70, 69 and 67. Moreover, he finished one of those rounds in 3-3-3-3-3-3-3-4-3-4-4. To save you looking for the calculator, that’s 11 holes in just 36 strokes. “A match against Bobby Jones is just as though you got your hand caught in a buzz saw,” explained his contemporary and the 1913 US Open winner Francis Ouimet. “He coasts along serenely, waiting for you to miss a shot, and the moment you do, he has you on the hook and you never get off. He can drive straighter than any man living. He is perfectly machine-like in his iron play, and on the greens he is a demon.” What made Jones’s achievements all the more remarkable – if that were possible – was that he played less tournament golf than any of the other great players of his era, entering only a handful of events each season. He was, in effect, a part-time player. In his Grand Slam year, for instance, he played in just seven competitions, which for Jones, at least, represented a busy year. It was as if he was giving the rest of golf a chance. “Golf is like eating peanuts,” he reflected. “You can play too much or play too little.” Without the pressures of competition golf, Jones continued to throw himself into his own law practice in Atlanta, as well as designing golf clubs, writing books and newspaper articles and appearing in instructional films. Throughout his career, though, it had always been a dream of Jones’s to build a golf club in his home state unlike any other in the world. Now with a record and reputation to exploit, he set about creating his legacy. To help realise his dream, Jones had been introduced to a New York investment banker by the name of Clifford Roberts. The two gelled immediately. With Jones overseeing the course design and Roberts raising the money, the two purchased Fruitlands, a 365-acre former plant nursery in Augusta and, with the help of Alister MacKenzie, the architect who had won acclaim for his design at Cypress Point, began turning Jones’s dreams into wondrous reality. Work would move on apace and construction would be completed by 1932. The club itself would open in January 1933, with 59 members each paying $350 to join. The following year,
on March 22, Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts would host the inaugural Augusta National Invitational, a tournament that would, on Roberts’ insistence, become known as “The Masters” some five years later. With Bobby Jones’s name behind the event and a sublime course to play on, the assembled field was strong with Walter Hagen, Tommy Armour, Paul Runyan, Craig Wood and the reigning British Open Champion Denny Shute all starting. Against his better judgement Jones, too, had decided to play, although it was clear from the outset that his game, especially his putting, wasn’t what it once was. And while he finished a creditable 13th, tied with Hagen, he was ten shots adrift of the winner Horton Smith. In the ensuing years, Jones would still play in his tournament (making 12 appearances) but only to appease the thousands of fans who demanded it. If anything, Jones seemed more intent on enjoying his life. In 1936, some six years after his retirement, he and his wife Mary were travelling to the Olympic Games in Berlin and had stopped off in Scotland for a few nights at Gleneagles. But Jones being Jones, decided that it was impossible for him to be so close to St Andrews without playing the Old Course once more. Arriving in St Andrews unannounced, Jones set up a round with Laurie Auchterlonie, the R&A’s honorary professional, but word had already spread throughout the hostelries and houses that Jones was in town and by the time he emerged on the first tee, there were more than 5,000 disciples lining the first fairway, all desperate to catch a glimpse of their returning hero. “I shall never forget that round,” he said later. “It was not anything like a serious golf match, but it was a wonderful experience. There was a sort of holiday mood in the crowd. It seemed they were just glad to see me back, and however I chose to play was fine with them.” For the record, Jones didn’t disappoint, shooting 32 for the front nine and then coming home in 39 for an impressive 71. The next time Jones appeared at St Andrews, though, he was barely able to walk. Having served in World War II as an officer in the US Army Air Corp – he even let the US Army graze cattle on Augusta National – Jones returned home but within a few years was diagnosed with syringomyelia, a rare incurable disease that attacks the spinal column and weakens the muscles. When the home of golf honoured him with the Freedom of the Burgh in 1958 (the only other American to receive it was Benjamin Franklin), he made the trip from Atlanta and spent the week being ferried around in an electric cart. He was, nevertheless, humility personified. “I could take out of my life everything except my experiences at St Andrews and I would still have had a rich and full life,” he said in his acceptance speech. Jones suffered for 23 long years with his illness. He died on December 18, 1971 in Atlanta, Georgia, aged 69 and weighing just 90lbs. When news of his passing reached the Royal and Ancient in St Andrews they stopped play on the Old Course and lowered the clubhouse flag to half-mast. Soon after, they renamed the 10th hole on the Old Course – the scene of that double bogey in 1921 – in his honour.
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The Interview Series
Red Tide Burning One of the big 5 European players of his generation and ex-world number one, Ian Woosnam truly lit up this year’s Julius Baer Golf Classic. - By Be n n y t e o
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main picture: the magnificent reignwood pine Valley Golf club & resort set in a lush 4.5 square kilometre expanse adjacent to the Great Wall of china.
It’s been a busy year for the Reignwood Group,
which celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. Headquartered in Beijing, the conglomerate is headed by Chairman Dr. Chanchai Ruayrungruang who is also Chairman of Redbull Group, and is active in four major growth sectors including consumer products, lifestyle, industrial and financing. With Dr. Chanchai being an avid golfer, the game of golf has played a major part in the lifestyle division of the group which has already seen the acquisition of the iconic Wentworth Golf Club in Surrey, England this year and the return of the US$2.1 million Reignwood LPGA Classic that recently concluded with South Korean Mirim Lee edging out Caroline Hedwall and Stacy Lewis for only her second professional win in her career. There is also a very ambitious project to build the world’s first indoor golf course in Beijing and discussions are already under way with legendary golfer and design maestro, Jack Nicklaus.
At the heart of all this, where all dreams began, is the private and members only facility called Reignwood Pine Valley Golf Club & Resort. Home to a Polo Club, golf villas, a five-star hotel and a health management and fitness centre, its two 18-hole golf courses designed also by Nicklaus, in addition to a nine-hole tract is a focal part of the social fabric of the well-heeled in the capital city. That is perhaps the reason why they hold enough clout to stage a buyout over one of England’s most exclusive golfing treasures, the Wentworth Golf Club, for £135 million pounds from restaurant entrepreneur Richard Caring. The acquisition was part of a plan which was mapped out five years ago by the Reignwood Group to develop modern services, businesses including golf courses, hotels and high-end real estate projects. The Group stresses that while it will keep the original team in place at the club, it will gradually introduce some of its own culture into Wentworth. Golf Vacations
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“We are different from many other Chinese enterprises which are also going global. We have a different approach. Localisation is our top priority,” explains Yasmin Lu, President of Beijing Reignwood Classic Culture & Sports Development Ltd Co., who is also part of the takeover team. “We always advocate exchanges between the east and west so appropriately we will introduce elements of our own culture, Asian or Eastern business culture and even economic culture. Gradually we will also introduce our members to play there,” she says. However, this is not a one-off purchase, and the Reignwood Group is currently involved in the possible acquisition of other highend iconic golf courses across Europe and North America. “For our group there are two fronts of equal importance - one is golf related businesses or modern health service businesses and the other is the thirst consumer products such as Vita Coco and Red Bull and health-related products introduced from abroad,” offers Lu, continuing, “I can confirm when it comes to golf, international acquisition is very high on our agenda. We’re not only looking for iconic brands which fit into our strategy and culture, we are also looking at the possibility of building our own courses overseas using international designers. That will depend on the market status and our judgment on how well we can fit into that local environment.” While that remains a strategy for the future, the present holds a much more interesting prospect with the impending construction on the world’s first indoor golf course. 40
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LeFt paGe cLOcKWiSe FrOm tOp: the nicklaus course at reignwood pine Valley Golf club; Delighted mirim Lee clutching the winner's trophy; Spectators enjoying all the action during the four day tournament; reignwood pine Valley Golf club, venue of the 2014 reignwood LpGa classic. tHiS paGe cLOcKWiSe FrOm tOp LeFt: reignwood pine Valley Golf club's Head Golf professional Brett Brasier with course designer Jack nicklaus; Yasmin Lu, president of Beijing reignwood classic culture & Sports Development Ltd co; Yasmin Lu (L) and Galba Zheng, president of reignwood pine Valley Golf club, presenting the winner's cheque to 2014 reignwood LpGa classic champion mirim Lee; Galba Zheng and mirim Lee planting a pine tree in honour of winning the reignwood LpGa classic.
It has no reciprocal rights with other courses in China but does have a ‘sister relationship’ with Nine Bridges Country Club in South Korea and Tanah Merah Country Club in Singapore. “Jack Nicklaus is working with us in terms of designing the indoor golf course and we are trying to build it within the area of nine holes but for players able to play 18 holes. Maybe there will be two tees and two greens and golfers can play back and forth,” explains Galba Zheng, President of Reignwood Pine Valley Golf Club for the past decade. As Beijing is a city with very sharp seasonal differences and changes, he states that with this project, golfers will be able to play all year round. “Dr Chanchai has always had this vision for Beijing players to still enjoy golfing even during winter. The plan has been on our minds for four years,” he reveals. “We actually had previously looked at kicking off construction before the end of 2014, but we are now going through some new approval procedures with the government so possibly and hopefully we’ll be able to do it next year.” A microclimate will be created in the indoor golf course and the club will grow organic turf with a minimum or zero use of chemicals and fertilizers. Golf Vacations
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Over the years the club has hosted the Volkswagen Golf Cup, Johnnie Walker Classic and the Pine Valley Beijing Open. This year saw the second Reignwood LPGA Classic on the Nicklaus course, which attracted the top women professionals in the world including Stacy Lewis, Inbee Park, defending champion Shanshan Feng, Suzann Pettersen, Na Yeon Choi, Yani Tseng, So Yeon Ryu and of course, eventual winner Mirim Lee. They were joined by other LPGA members in addition to 15 China LPGA players including Yanhong Pan and 16-year-old Yuting Shi who turned professional just before this event. She finished a credible 14th, taking home her first prize pot of just over $32,000. The club has a three-year contract with the LPGA so the highly prized event will return in 2015. The 400-member golf club, where individual membership costs US$400,000 and corporate membership is $880,000, is ranked as one of the top golf courses in China and has won numerous accolades and awards. It has no reciprocal rights with other courses in China but does have a ‘sister relationship’ with Nine Bridges Country Club in South Korea and Tanah Merah Country Club in Singapore. So what makes it so exclusive? According to Zheng, one aspect is the unique combination of scenery (the club is surrounded by mountains) and proximity to the city. He adds, “It is also important to have a big name like Jack Nicklaus which makes it well known and recognised. Regarding the maintenance of the courses, we have the best people with very rich professional and strong maintenance experience and all have been with the club at least five years and some up to 12 years. Also our hardware for the maintenance is incomparable with any other course in China. We also listen to people’s feedback through various tournaments and how they evaluate and comment on our services.” 42
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There is also a very ambitious project to build the world’s first indoor golf course in Beijing and discussions are already under way with legendary golfer and design maestro, Jack Nicklaus.
Zheng has been president since 2004, and is keenly aware of what works and does not with the club and its membership. “We are also taking this (LPGA) tournament as a branding opportunity and also to introduce golf to people in China by bringing in a high level international tournament to their door. It’s our corporate social responsibility to do this instead of just calculating how much we can get in return. In addition, such a high level tournament will help Chinese players play alongside some of the world's best so they can accumulate more experience in their efforts to qualify for the 2016 Olympics.” Part of that commitment is the continued development of junior golf. In 2010, the Reignwood Group donated RMB100 million towards the cause. Says Zheng, “We have been very committed to the development of junior golf in China. We have a nine-hole course exclusively for these young kids who can practice on it and play for free. We also host tournaments for junior golfers and have a Team Reignwood for young players.” He adds, “We invite children of our members to learn golf and invite other young kids who have performed well in other junior events to our golf course. We have weekly lessons and invite international coaches to teach the young kids to play golf.” As for future development and growth of this relatively young game in the world’s most populous country, the longstanding president shares that the group has its plans already well in place. “We have a global perspective and we hope by integrating golf into our overall strategy of helping to introduce it to the public about our vision for a positive and healthy green lifestyle, golf should be a very important part of it. It is not exclusive because the Reignwood Group has other businesses to focus on and we want to show the Chinese that by introducing golf, a positive lifestyle can be like this. The game is not only a sport but also a lifestyle,” he reiterates. Eco-friendly investments and the development of green communities are at the heart of the Reignwood Group’s ethos – their logo features two pine trees and starting from the first event last year, a tree will be planted at Pine
Valley Golf Club in honour of the reigning champion of the LPGA Reignwood Classic. Commenting on this, Zheng says, “The Reignwood Group believes strongly in the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle, and in respecting our natural surroundings. We are also acutely aware of the environmental challenges that we face both here in China and around the world and feel that planting trees is a simple but very positive message that the tournament can deliver.” And as to whether a similar LPGA event will one day played at Wentworth Golf Club (it did play host to the Curtis Cup back in 1932, a women’s amateur event started by amateurs Harriot and Margaret Curtis), Ms. Lu answers, “Primarily the acquisition was the product of our group’s global strategy. Wentworth Golf Club was the venue for a few very important tournaments including the BMW PGA tournaments. There is a possibility that we may bring a ladies tournament there someday.” Of course, now that they own it, they get to call the shots.
THIS PAGE FROM TOP: The impressive entrance to the Reignwood Pine Valley Golf Club & Resort; Luxury accommodation at the Reignwood Pine Valley Golf Club & Resort.
www.reignwood.com/pine_valley.asp Golf Vacations
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The 19th
The
ford Plantation
American industrialist and founder of the Ford Motor Company, the iconic Henry Ford sets root near the southern town of Savannah, Georgia a century ago and his legacy lives on. - By R o s a n n e Z i n n i g e R
Sitting on the back balcony
of the old Ford house, overlooking the Ogeechee River, a warm breeze rustles the moss of 17th century oak trees. The squawk of a soaring turkey vulture is the only sound in the late afternoon. A panoramic view from the balcony reveals these same live oaks spanning the shoreline of the river from left to right, with an old rice mill and oyster house off to the right. This is Ford Plantation, located in Richmond Hill just 15 minutes from Savannah in the southern part of Georgia, and is a private golf and sports community. But it was not always so. 44
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Automaker extraordinaire, Henry Ford, bought the property in the 1920’s, and was determined to restore the devastated and neglected plantation land. Ford was very passionate about nature and set out to protect the environment, repair the original Cherry Hill Estate, and eventually built a new custom home in 1936 for his wife Clara, which he made his winter home. Today, the main house – named Richmond Hill and Clara’s house, is the hub of the plantation community that allows members to come, enjoy tea in the afternoon, sit on the balcony, or relax in the library with a good book. The 1800-acre estate is private, offering prime real estate and all the amenities expected of an upscale community set within easy reach of the historic district of Savannah. The main house’s expansive bedrooms accommodate six couples with the option to rent a vacationing member’s house for those that prefer a visit to give them a feel of plantation living. A marina, sports facility, spa, equestrian stables, golf club with championship golf course, and wildlife rescue is all on property along with 24-hour security. And, three full-time guides for fishing, hunting and hiking are available here. Once three separate plantations established in the 1700s, named Dublin (renamed Richmond), Cherry Hill, and Silk Hope, they produced upland cotton and tidal rice, which was their primary crops. As you drive in past the security stop and white gates, imagine the three-quarter-century plantation struggles that included the 1860’s Civil War, which brought down economic and agricultural devastation. The driveway view now reveals breathtaking and massive live oak, mossy trees among white corralled horse grounds that lead you to the historic Ford main house and little remains of the tortured past now except those self-same live oaks and structural splendour of the property. A stay at the main house estate is very much like a colonial style bed-andbreakfast, where the beds are comfy, the staff is personable, and the home, welcoming. A large formal dining and living room with parlour and majestic fireplace, breakfast room with paned windows, and library are maintained in the original Ford design, with old photographs of the Fords and the plantation in earlier years adorning its walls. In addition to the spectacular colonial style architecture and smell of timber that is used to build the home, the
“Ford was very passionate about nature and set out to protect the environment, repair the original Cherry Hill Estate, and eventually built a new custom home in 1936 for his wife Clara, which he made his winter home.�
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décor transports visitors back to a time when life was lived at a much slower pace. That same philosophy is true at the plantation today. The early morning sun streams in paned windows and the bustle of staff in the kitchen below, along with the heavenly scent of their homemade blueberry muffins and aromatic coffee announces the start of the day. Take breakfast on the balcony overlooking the river or in the breakfast room with a view of the rose garden and Old 1870’s Rice Mill. The old mill was converted by Ford into his part-time research laboratory, which also provided steam to the Richmond Estate Home, and is now privately-owned and occupied. After breakfast, a round of golf is in order and perhaps a little fishing as well. It is not unheard of a member shooting a couple of holes of golf and then taking a break to fish in the lake, and then shoot a few more holes of golf and fish. The pace is that laidback. Just the same, a short golf cart ride to the golf club will take you through some quaint neighbourhoods, revealing custom homes, some of which emulate the main house. In the evening, have a pre-dinner drink and relax by a majestic fireplace in the colonial-styled parlour of the main house, before savouring international cuisine by executive chef Juan Carlos. Fresh ingredients from the plantation are incorporated in a customised daily menu that includes the “catch of the day” from surrounding waters – both river and ocean. There is usually no need for a tee time at the Plantation course as the membership is small. The Pete Dye designed 18-hole par 72 golf course was commissioned in 1984 by a wealthy Saudi businessman, Ghaith Pharaon, also one of the many landowners here at the plantation, with an unlimited budget and free hand to do whatever is necessary. Pharaon desired to build a course in the tradition of Bobby Jones’s Augusta National Golf Course and took 3 years to complete. Then called ‘The Sterling Bluff Golf Course’, it is divided by Lake Clara at Hole 10, and Hole 1 is situated near the clubhouse and Rose Hill Community where the first Ford home was inhabited. Majestic live oaks and over 250 acres of freshwater lakes contribute to this scenic landscape in which the first nine holes were designed after a parkland style golf course, and the back nine Scottish links-style layout created on once plantation rice fields before Ford himself turned them to lettuce fields. 46
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Presently, it is maintained to the original 1980’s design with deviations and changes to bunkers and greens over the years due to owner changes and challenges with consistent upkeep, especially since the back nine was built in the middle of the Cherry Hill rice fields. But the course is also undergoing a restoration project that will take another year to rebuild. The plan, to top US$7 million, includes constant involvement with Pete Dye, and will focus on restoring the exact detail of his sculptured bunkers, greens and fairways. C.W. Canfield, golf professional at the Plantation, commented: “With an aging golf course, we’ve had to be creative with our agronomic practices. One of the biggest improvements came with fertilisation efficiency. We use GPS tracking via soil samples to only fertilize areas that are in need of nutrients.” Nelson Caron, golf course superintendent, makes sure that his greens are quick, and at times, unforgiving. While it may all change next fall, some of the course highlights include Hole 5, a par 4 at 383 yards, with a blind tee shot that the venerable golf architect replicated from the original 14th hole at Prestwick,
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“The Pete Dye designed 18-hole par 72 golf course was commissioned in 1984 by a wealthy Saudi businessman, Ghaith Pharaon, also one of the many landowners here at the plantation, with an unlimited budget and free hand to do whatever is necessary.”
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Scotland; the 8th, a fun, trouble-filled par 3 that is 193-yard long with a majestic 250-year-old oak loaming directly behind; the 448-yard par 4 13th with cord grass and water along the fairway that doglegs to the right where many water fowl, the occasional alligator, and jumping mullet fish flying out of the water can be sighted; and the final hole, a 534-yard par 5 that leads up through a slightly elevated terrain with water on the right. No matter how it plays later on, it will certainly proffer strategic golf through a forest of immense oak trees, pines, and palmettos, hills and bunkers, and large lakes with natural fauna like an osprey or eagle soaring above. Thereafter, sit by the Lake Dye Grill and enjoy a fresh shrimp salad and beverage on the veranda with a lakeside view. As mentioned, there are three guides here at Ford Plantation offering various guided trips from hiking to bird watching to fishing. Naturalist Mike Womble, Outdoor Pursuits Director Fuzzy Davis and a river cruise captain who simply goes by the name, Danny. Womble’s guided walks take guests through journeys like McAllister Trail which is a hike that starts at Oyster House and winds along the Ogeechee River around the wildlife and bird sanctuary, or the Lake Clara Trail that leads from the main house to the marina and segregates the Ogeechee River and Lake Clara, while former US Coast Guard captain and radio talk show host Fuzzy Davis recommends visiting and fishing at Lake Clara with its unique brackish estuary that contains an amazing diversity of shrimps, redfish, crabs and largemouth bass. Live catch, while available all year, is dependent on the salinity of the water here. Davis shares, “The amount of shrimp in Lake Clara is directly related to the salinity in the Ogeechee River which feeds the lake. Last year, we had a tremendous amount of rain late in the summer and that affected the shrimp harvest but the crabs, flounder and redfish love the low salinity and our members have been able to experience some great crabbing and fishing.” And finally, a scenic river cruise along with cruise captain Danny, offers a chance to spot some of the famous inhabitants of the area. Danny, who is a local lad, knows his way around the river and can confidently spot the gators and point out the resident birds while
OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Mercer Williams House Museum; Ro with baby alligator; Mike Womble with blue crab; Fuzzy Davis shrimp net of fish.
winding through the maze of old plantation fields toward open ocean. “Spring is one of our most popular times of the year with a lot of activity in our natural community. Flowers are blooming, fish are spawning, and birds are busy nesting; we have documented over 230 species of birds that use Ford throughout the year,” says Womble who also oversees the Oyster House and Naturalist Center here. He continues, “One of the more unusual nesters here is our resident pair of bald eagles. They decided to nest right in the center of the property. We really enjoy watching these birds as they raise their young right in front of us. It is truly an amazing sight.” Moving indoors, Ford Plantation’s Day Spa is a great way to end the afternoon. This transformed, old carriage house where Henry Ford parked his Model Ts, was renovated into a two-storey house to match the main one, and serves as the spa where massage therapy with one of their highly trained therapists will boost immunity, ease muscle tension and stress, and promote full mind and body rejuvenation. To complete the experience, do a facial treatment using German-made Dr. Babor skin care product line that is manufactured without parabens,
synthetic dyes and chemicals, and relax in the sauna before finishing with a revitalizing Vichy shower. The whole Ford Plantation and Savannah experience is much more than a vacation, as one is welcomed in the great tradition of the South. Nick Casala, CEO and General Manager best sums it up with, “Ford Plantation is truly southern living at its finest and takes full advantage of its authentic low country setting to deliver some amazing experiential opportunities for members and guests to enjoy. The community has a true “sense of place” and the informal, relaxed service delivery is a key component to the social atmosphere that resonates throughout the property. No one ever feels like a stranger here.” www.fordplantation.com Additionally, visit www.savannahvisit.com for a full listing of restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and tours/ attractions in the historic district of Savannah.
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Destination Focus
Ski in the morning, play 18 holes in the afternoon, then indulge in a relaxing massage or bubbling spa - a golfing trip for the mind, body and soul. Welcome to Austria. - By A n d r e w M A r s h A l l
- P h oto g r A P h y By PAu l M A r s h A l l
OPENING PICTURE: Golf Club Rasmushof ’s ninth green (with Kitzbühel town in the background).
THIS PAGE: A lone golfer heads up a fairway fringed with wildflowers on Golf Club Schwarzsee’s 438-metre par 5 15th.
After picking up our hire car from Munich airport
and successfully negotiating the German autobahn’s frenetic traffic, we motored over the border into Austria - a land of world-class skiing, the birthplace of Mozart and quaint wooden chalets crouching in the foothills of soaring snow-capped peaks. For golfers looking for something different from the well-trampled fairways of Spain and Portugal, two of the country’s key golf areas, Zell am See in Salzburgerland and Kitzbühel in the Tyrol, both within a short drive of each other, have all the right ingredients: chic ski towns, top-class restaurants, friendly locals, spa and wellness treatments, a multitude of outdoor activities and invigorating stress-free golf. From quirky nine-holers to championship-class designs, the golf courses are mostly quiet, the green fees affordable and because of the altitude, well-struck shots can fly an extra 10 percent of distance through the crisp clean air. But, the absolute essence of Alpine golf is the breathtaking scenery and the panoramic vistas that unfold as you play. It begins at Golfclub Zell am See at Kaprun in the Salzach Valley, arguably the largest golfing facility in the Austrian Alps with two 18-hole courses, a well-stocked pro-shop, driving range and excellent teaching professionals. With the snow-capped mountains of the National Park Hohe Tauern rising to 3,797 metres in the distance, it is also one of the most picturesque in Europe. It is a sunny June morning and Karl Bauer, events manager and twotime club champion is heading out to tackle 36 holes (the Kitzsteinhorn and Schmittenhöhe courses) here at Zell am See. He gets underway by expertly splitting the fairway on the 357-metre par 4 1st of the Kitzteinhorn course. “On a beautiful day like today, I like to have breakfast, take the cable car to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier to ski, come back down, take a swim in Lake Zeller, then finish off with a round of golf in the afternoon. For me, it’s a perfect day,” Karl effuses as he strolls the vivid green fairways lined with wildflowers. Golf Vacations
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“The Kitzsteinhorn course is worth playing just for the stunning view from the wooden bridge that leads across a lake from the 10th tee to the 11th green.”
Designed by Donald Harradine, the two parklandstyle courses are situated beside each other on the valley floor, and feature water on several holes, huge bunkers and distinctive old hay barns that dot the fairways. The Kitzsteinhorn course is worth playing just for the stunning view from the wooden bridge that leads across a lake from the 10th tee to the 11th green. It is easy to spend all day gazing at the reflected vista of the green and glacier-swathed mountain behind set off by a towering fountain except there is golf to play yet. “The Schmittenhöhe is the more difficult of the two courses and requires more club management, especially with the final two greens being so well protected by water,” says Karl, as he heads for lunch at the club’s patio restaurant, after completing his first 18 holes. Karl’s girlfriend appears after a session mountain biking in the surrounding hills. Glowing from vigour, she’s a typical example of the local commitment to an active life in this part of the world, whether it be teeing off in the valleys, paragliding in the sky, snow-boarding the slopes or windsurfing on the lakes, it seems just about everyone who lives here gets stuck in with some outdoor adventure or other.
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THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Cable car ski lift and snow-capped mountains, Kitzbühel; The Bichlhof Sports and Wellness Hotel is conveniently situated close to Golf Club Eichenheim; Architecture and cobbled streets of the medieval town of Kitzbühel.
“This is a great area for outdoor sports and we host all kinds of events including the World Mountain Biking Championships and the ‘Aqua Alpine Cup’, which is a combination of skiing and water-skiing,” said Karl, as he turns to the varied menu offering a wide range of dishes at the clubhouse. Typical Austrian fare such as ‘Wiener Schnitzel’, ‘Black pudding with mashed potato and onions’ and ‘Entrecôte (local beef) with mustard sauce, tomato and garlic vegetables and potatoes’ fills the list. “Of course, to finish you’ll have to try my apple strudel,” said head chef and ex-judo champion Ludwig Karl, who reckons he is better in the kitchen than on the golf course. The country’s signature dessert certainly hits the spot as the avid golfer returns to tackle Schmittenhöhe in the afternoon. Austria more or less invented the spa town, and indulgence by the rich and famous made these resorts some of the most famous in Europe. In an attempt to cure his deafness, Beethoven was a regular visitor to Baden bei Wien, while Princess Sophie proclaimed that the waters of Bad Ischl were a boost to her fertility. The popularity of the treatments has led to the rise of over one hundred Wellness Hotel complexes scattered throughout the country. A comfortable and convenient base for golfers in Zell am See, near the shores of picturesque Lake Zeller is the five-star Hotel Salzburger Hof, which like many other wellness hotels, offers special golf and spa packages that include reduced green fees and a variety of therapeutic treatments. “When we first opened in 1967 we were one of the first places to offer massage, cosmetic and facial treatments. We always try and find a selection of the best and latest for our guests,” says owner Gisela Holleis, and continues, “like the Hawaiian massage ‘Lomi Lomi’, which goes deep into the psyche, and can help release tension and anxieties. In fact, it’s perfect for golfers.” “We have plenty of golfers staying at Hotel Salzburger Hof and it’s great for couples. The wives are very happy because they can stay at the best address in town and take all the treatments, while the men go off golfing for the day. Everyone wins,” chirps Gisela enthusiastically.
Men are certainly welcome to take the treatments too, but whether they prefer ‘La Stone’, (where hot and cold stones are placed alternately onto the body’s energy centre) or ‘Agyptos’ (the body being wrapped in bandages that have been steeped in a mixture of Egyptian Vital Earth and salt from the Dead Sea), there can be no doubt about the stress-relieving qualities of a bubbling spa that can work wonders for the mind, body and soul after battling the challenges of Alpine golf. About an hour’s drive over a mountain pass to the northwest of Zell am See, is the medieval town of Kitzbühel - a cosmopolitan ski resort in winter and another excellent base for golfers in the months of May to mid-October. In fact, Kitzbühel markets itself as the ‘Golfing Centre of the Alps’ offering four courses, while another 19 all lies within an easy drive. A few kilometres out of town is Golf Club Schwarzsee where a British professional and his team operate a friendly service to all-comers. Opened in 1989 with an exhibition match between Bernard Langer and Payne Stewart, the first few holes of the par-72, 6,642-metre test are reasonably forgiving parkland. One standout hole is the challenging 187-metre par 3 9th, which requires a solid and accurate strike over a lake from the elevated tee box. From there on, the course climbs the hillside through pine trees and narrowing with greater elevation changes as nature dictates.
ABOVE: Beautiful Lake Zeller attracts water activities of all kinds.
BELOW: A guest receives the treatment ‘Ayurveda’ (an ancient Indian theory on a long, healthy life which considers the skin the mirror of the soul).
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Golf Club Schwarzsee’s 19th hole is a lovely sunny terrace with magnificent views of the Astberg, Rauherkopf and Wilder Kaiser Peaks. Order a couple of frosty beers and enjoy the view and if you hear a local player talking about the 20th hole, they are probably referring to the nearby Schwarzsee Lake; a wonderful spot for relaxing, swimming and sunbathing before or after a round. For some casual golfing action closer to town, the quirky nine-holer attached to the Golf Hotel Rasmushof owns the distinction of being Austria’s only rated par-3 course. Such is its degree of difficulty. Situated above Kitzbühel town, not only does it offer stunning views, especially from the 7th, 8th and 9th tees, but it is also sited at the bottom of the world famous Hahnenkamm downhill racing trail. It takes an ace skier just under two minutes to negotiate the 2.5 kilometres of glittering ice cliff at close to 140km/h in the annual Hahnenkamm Downhill Race that is the skiing equivalent of the British Open. Another way to enjoy the Hahnenkamm is a scenic cable car ride to its 1,712-metre summit. For the braver, more adventurous set, book para-glider and fly down from there, in tandem with a qualified instructor. Cable car is also available at the higher Kitzbühler Horn, which rises up to 1,996 metres. Thereafter, relax at Aquarena, an aquatic spa and health centre in the heart of Kitzbühel. The township has around 80 cafes, restaurants and inns that serve wonderful delights, among them traditional Tirolean specialties, exotic fivecourse dinner menus and hearty snacks. Specialties such as Frittaten Soup, which is a clear soup with strips of pancake, Viennese Schnitzel with parsley potatoes, 54
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Cheese Dumplings and Kaiserschmarrn, which consists of shredded pancakes with raisins and sugar. But back to Rasmushof. The golf club is also part of June Golf Week, which is six days of nonstop golfing action that sets the benchmark for the rest of Austria with pro-am competition, a 100-hole marathon consisting of 11 rounds at Rasmushof, a longest drive challenge on the Streif and a taste of its top courses including Golf Club Schwarzsee and Golfplatz Eichenheim. Within close proximity to the latter is a hotel dedicated to sports and wellness programs called Bichilof that makes an excellent base for golfing in the Kitzbühel region. “We offer special golf and wellness packages and guests have the use of our golf carts so they can drive directly to the course,” says owner Andrea Hopfner. “You open the gate with an electronic key and go in the back way. It’s only five minutes away.” Designed by golf architect Kyle D. Phillips whose impressive portfolio of layouts includes Kingsbarns in Scotland and The Grove in England, the championship-class Golfplatz Eichenheim is rated among the top courses in the country. At 5,944-metres, it is not long but then again, it doesn’t have to be. Superbly manicured greens coupled with rollercoaster fairways, meandering water hazards and constant elevation changes presents a stern test for golfers of all standards who will undoubtedly return with a truly memorable experience. Case in point. After playing the approach shot at the Par 5 1st, you will find that the emerald green is on level with the snow-capped mountain range in the distance as you saunter towards it, creating one of the most surreal and photogenic vistas in golf. The feeling is akin to a mountaineer striding towards his destination but with a putter in hand instead of ropes and carabiners. Other golfing options in the region include the spacious 27-hole Wilder Kaiser course with its craggy backdrop, Mittersill Golf Club with its signature Par 3 island green right in front of the sunny clubhouse terrace and the 9-hole Schloss Kaps course that boasts more single-figure handicap members than anywhere else in the country. As effusive as one can be celebrating the virtues of the great outdoors with scenery that offers a lifetime of photographic memories, none puts it better or more succinctly than a very famous Austrian who had spent time here Arnold Schwarzenegger’s entry in the Golf Hotel Rasmushof’s Guest Book simply says: “I’ll be back.”
LEFT PAGE FROM TOP: Snow-capped mountain reflections at the par 4th on the Kitzsteinhorn course, Zell am See; Two golfers cross a bridge from the 10th green to the 11th tee, on the Kitzsteinhorn course.
THIS PAGE FROM TOP: The green at Golf Club Eichenheim’s index one hole (the 388m par 4 11th); A golfer plays out of a bunker at Golf Club Eichenheim’s par 4 7th; The 475 metre Par 5 13th at Golf Club Schwarzsee.
www.austria.info www.kitzbuehel.com/en/kitz_from_a-z
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My Top Ten
Courses in
Dublin
Why Dublin? Because the Irish knows golf as well as the Scots and they got the pubs to show for as well. - By A n d r e w M A r s h A l l , P h oto g r A P h y By PAu l M A r s h A l l
Golf. A sport where grown men and women use several different bent sticks to hit a ball into an area with very short grass surrounding a hole in the ground. That is pretty much the gist of it, and the inhabitants of the Emerald Isle love it - alongside a good drink of course. And where in Ireland is perfect for both? Well, none other than the capital itself. Just a short drive away from Dublin’s city centre, there are some amazingly high quality courses waiting to be discovered. A few miles north of the city, golfing options include Royal Dublin, Portmarnock Links and the lesser-known St Anne’s Golf Club. To the west, are topclass parkland tracks like the K Club and Rathsallagh. To the south, quick road connections lead to County Wicklow and championship courses such as Druids Glen and The European Club.
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Druids Glen & Druids Heath
Situated in a scenic location 30-minutes south of Dublin, this double-header venue boasts two championship courses to test your golfing skills. Holder of the Irish Open four times in a row between 96 and 99, Druids Glen, often referred to as the ‘Augusta of Europe’, is a challenging parkland layout that can be tough to negotiate with water being a threat on several holes. Elevation changes, historical landmarks, mature trees and vibrant floral displays add to the interest. The other course, Druids Heath runs through undulating and mainly open terrain with the mountains, sea and rolling Irish countryside providing stunning vistas throughout. Golf Vacations
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Rathsallagh Country Club
A top-quality parkland track that has rapidly developed a reputation as one of the best courses in the Dublin region is Rathsallagh Country Club beautifully laid out by Christy O'Connor Jr and Peter McEvoy on 250 acres of superbly natural terrain dotted by mature oak and beech trees. It features several lakes and small streams that meander across the fairways with immaculate greens.
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Corballis Golf Links
Offers an excellent opportunity to play a top quality links course at an affordable price. With playable conditions throughout the year and some of the most consistent greens in the country, Corballis Golf Links is a hidden gem located just 25 minutes drive north from the centre of Dublin. Well recommended for an introduction to the vagaries of links golf.
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Deer Park Golf Club
Set in 450 acres, Deer Park Golf Club is Ireland's largest golf complex offering a range of golf courses for players of all abilities. For starters, there’s an 18-hole pitching and putting range and two excellent 9-holers, the Grace O'Malley and St.Fintans, each having their own individuality. But the main course is Deer Park’s wonderful 18-hole parkland course with a stunning backdrop of the Irish Sea and panoramic views of Dublin and its suburbs.
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The European Club
Crafted out of tumbling dunes by Pat Ruddy, The European Club features 18 holes (plus 2 bonus par-3s) of exciting links golf with dramatic views of the Irish Sea. This is seaside golf at its very best, with fast-running fairways, greens that invite the pitch-and-run approach, acres of tall, waving marram grass, strong winds and the taste of salt in the sea air. Look out for the 470 yards par-4 7th, voted one of the world’s greatest 100 golf holes. Tiger Woods still holds the course record of 67, shot on July 12, 2002. On the tees of several of the par-4s he said: “Is this a par-5? Wow…what great optical illusions!”
The K Club
West of Dublin is the K Club’s Palmer Course and the dramatic scenes of that famous European victory over the USA in the 2006 Ryder Cup. One of Ireland’s finest parkland courses, the closing stretch is a classic. The 16th is an all-or-nothing two-shotter, where an accurate drive must be followed by a long and precise approach over water to an island green. The 18th dares the golfer to drive over the top of a bunkerstrewn hill and then tempts you to fire straight at the flag in search of that heroic Ryder Cup finish. The K Club’s other course the Smurfit, would best be described as an inland links, with dune-type mounding throughout. Golf Vacations
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Portmarnock Golf Links
Widely recognised as one of Ireland’s premier golf resorts with a golf course that combines all the charms of a traditional links layout with the challenge of the modern game. Gently undulating luxuriously sprung fairways leading to large fast greens must be negotiated through 98 strategically placed bunkers, while hillocks, wild grasses and gorse await wayward shots. The 1st tee and 18th green are conveniently situated just a wedge shot from the hotel and clubhouse.
Royal Dublin Golf Club
On Dublin Bay’s Bull Island Nature Reserve you will discover a natural links fashioned in a classic style in the early part of the last century by the renowned golf architect Harry Colt. Over the years, many legends of the game have played here including Nicklaus, Trevino, Ballesteros, Langer, Norman and Faldo. Martin Hawtree has now enhanced this top-drawer links for the modern era; making one of Ireland’s greatest golfing tests, well, even greater.
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9 Royal County Down
Royal County Down and Royal Portrush are generally considered to be two of the best courses outside the United States and in many cases, this 125 year-old club has been cited as the very best of all. It has two courses, the Championship Course and the Annesley Links but the reputation was gained on the back of the earlier, 7,200 yard par 72 beauty. Its 4th and 9th holes especially, are amongst the world’s finest. Current world number one Rory McIlroy has been quoted to say that this is the finest he’s ever played.
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St Anne’s Golf Club
While not as famous as some of the other courses on Dublin’s north coast, St Anne’s Golf Club is an impressive links layout that’s lucky enough to be situated on one of Ireland’s most important ecological attractions: Dublin Bay’s Bull Island Nature Reserve – a great spot to ensure at least a few birdies of the feathered variety.
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Choice Resorts
The
Dunes
at shenzhou Peninsula One of the newest entry into Hainan Island, The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula is a secret golfing retreat between two of China’s most popular holiday spots. - By Br e t t Br as i e r
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Shenzhou Peninsula is not your usual holiday-maker’s destination. Haikou and Sanya are. So, what sets this remarkable stretch of rugged lands apart from the other more popular places? A reputable, player’s course located on the southeastern shore of what is becoming widely known as the ‘Hawaii of the East’, the 36 holes that make up The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula, Hainan Island. Winning accolades when it first opened its doors back in 2010, this is a rare gem by an even rarer design talent never before seen on Chinese shores – Tom Weiskopf. Tom Weiskopf, a decorated American golfer with the 1973 British Open under his belt and now golf course designer takes centrestage when describing the vicissitudes that comes with playing the West and East courses here. While many have taken the journey from professional golfer to golf course designer, not a lot has seen the sort of success the 71-year-old has. A golf course designer since 1985, Weiskopf has at least 40 courses to his credit, including the Monument and Pinnacle courses at Troon North Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona and Loch 64
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Lomond, venue of the Scottish Open from 1995 to 2010. The Dunes is his first foray into the Far East and what a journey it turned out to be. A seaside course carefully carved out of massive sand dunes and indigenous plant species, including seaside paspalum that thrives on this type of tropical climate from tee to green, and combine with the unparalleled breathtaking views of the South China Sea makes you wonder if the Scots can actually lay claim to the finest links. But what many may not realise is that this was formerly a watermelon plantation rather than a traditional links, and therefore was devoid of any natural shape or feature when Weiskopf and his associate Phil Smith took the design job. Most of what is seen is man-made, from the small blow-out dunes to the undulating fairways and elevated greens. However, the construction team has made the most out of existing rugged coasted dunes and distinctive craggy boulders to blend into Weiskopf’s layout that includes a bunker style designed to blend in with the natural surrounds.
Opened in 2010, the 7,484 yards, Par 72 West Course quickly won plaudits for, among other things, being the best new course in China. Like all traditional links, the routing takes the golfer from 1 to 18 before arriving back at the clubhouse. In this case, heading out towards a long, sweeping beach and returning via a horseshoe shaped bay – hence Shenzhou Peninsula - with large swathes of sand. Holes 8th, 16th and 17th are built adjacent to the sea, with sand from the beach pushed onto the site to create those natural-looking bunkers that was mentioned earlier. Hole 8 stretches 455 yards from the back and provides a fitting backdrop with the sand and sea to the right and cliffs behind. Carved into the primary dune directly above the coast, the elevated tees nestling into the mountain unveil one of the best views of the entire peninsula. The further back and up it goes, the better the sight. Challenging the left bunker will give you the best approach from a raised fairway. Most visitors are recommended to play the blue tees at 395 yards in order to optimise their round and approach the large green set up high that on windy days, could be tricky further back. Another teebox with a view to kill, the 16th, at 448 paces from the blues (483 yards from the tips) is a long hole that follows along the beach area with ample fairway space but a deep natural inlet bisects the landing area and green, yet looks more intimidating than it actually is. There are 30 yards of approach prior to the green to land short and run up. The green is fairly flat and receptive to reward any long ball landing in regulation. Following a long par 4 is a true, short links hole. The 17th is the shortest of par 3s and requires an accurate measure of the wind, shot and club selection, which is devilishly difficult. Its various tee locations (114 yards from the white to 186 yards from the black) provide differing angles to play the hole from. Play a little left of centre if you’re a wee bit squeamish about going directly at the pin. A large dune and bunker will catch any ball hit short and the beach awaits any missed shots to the right. There is a helpful local bounce from the left side that helps any player who happens to pull their tee shot. Like many of the holes at the West, par here is a good score.
previous page, opening spread: Flawlessly sculpted green and bunkering alongside natural rocky terrain at dunes, shenzhou peninsula. CloCkwise From top leFt: a modern links design in China; natural outcrops and water hazard in the inland holes; spectacular clubhouse views in the evening.
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The beach holes are obviously the highlights here but the lasting memory of the West Course is the bunkering and the shaping of transition areas from formal bunkers to the more rugged expanses of native sand. These transition areas were skillfully crafted by the design team but some might suggest they were almost too well created, for the roughly shaped edges are so clean and smooth as to appear unnatural. Also the fairway shaping here is nowhere near as interesting as the peripheral areas, which makes the bunker shapes standout even further. Given the fact that the sand is pure, the beach and sea views are glorious and the rocky outcrops provide a striking contrast to the golfing hues, this is a course sure to win plenty more accolades in the years ahead. The shorter East Course opened in 2012, and also features a number of beachside holes. Weiskopf and 66
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his team were truly blessed on this site, to be able to build 36 holes right by the sea without intrusive housing, prohibitive environmental restrictions or serious benchmark competitors. The 15th and 16th on the East Course stands out to mention. The former is the most intimidating par 3 on the golf course with 204 yards of exposure to the South China Sea winds. To further compound difficulty, the green is elevated and fully exposed to the elements. Believe it or not, the proper tee shot is not to be aimed at the centre of the green, but rather it should be placed directly over the front left bunker, which will allow the ball to bounce down to the green and settle near the middle of the large bowel shaped surface. Any tee shot that is hit right of the green will be penalized with a deep pitch shot up to the green, or worse still, end up wet. A truly testing hole.
Along the vein of long contrasting with short, here at the East’s 16th is a Par 5 playing back along the coastline with the ocean directly on your left. From the blue tee, it is 547 yards long with a tee shot needing to be placed as close to the left pot bunkers as possible in order to have the best view and angle to the green. From here, the second shot requires some decision making. The first option is to lay up safely on the low left fairway, which leaves a difficult pitch up to the shallow side of the green. If you wanted to try and reach in two, then you will need to challenge the right side and go for the upper fairway to try and catch the slope that can kick the ball down to the green. The putting surface is one of the smallest on the golf course and sits on a peninsula with a steep slope down to the beach for any shot hit short or left. There is also a saving bunker on the left front greenside that will help balls from bouncing down the steep slope to the beach. A true golf course must give continuing golfing joy, stimulation and satisfaction to the players for whom it is intended and Tom Weiskopf has done just that with his two masterpieces on Hainan. Like any true links design, it forces you to use those cells between the ears regardless of playing ability - on a true links, distance is not the key but rather strategy and accuracy. But that’s not all. Apart from the East and West, there is also an optional third course known as Composite Course that combines elements of the East and West to form a true tournament layout that Weiskopf predicts, will be a fine challenge for visiting professionals reminiscent of classic designs such as Royal Melbourne, Cypress Point and Pine Valley. “The overall design concept for the East, West and Composite is to enhance the natural landscape of the site while incorporating the dunes that already existed throughout most of the property, and hence, its name,” notes Michael Hoevel, newly appointed general manager of the property.
leFt page: tom weiskopf's stunning bunkering around the greens. tHis page: the sheraton Hotel nearby with modern luxury touches.
“Each hole has its own character and strategy, never duplicating at any point. Within the golfing corridors of the holes you will find a mix of big mature trees, natural waterways, primary and secondary dunes, spectacular ocean views, seaside vegetation, gentle elevation changes and majestic natural rock outcroppings,” he effuses, reiterating his belief that this is one of the best courses on the island. A private members club with limited access to visitors, it is solely owned by CITIC Pacific Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of CITIC Group in Beijing. Membership cards are available for 18 or 36 holes ranging from RMB350,000 to RMB550,000 with about 30 percent offered to foreigners. Visitors are allowed both weekdays and weekends with advance booking advised, and guests of the nearby Sheraton and Four Points hotels are also encouraged to visit. Apart from two (or three) amazing golf courses and a well furnished clubhouse with a second floor restaurant that overlooks the courses and peninsula, there is also a practice range that incorporates five full length holes located close to the clubhouse managed by Scottish head professional, Stewart Kemp. The constant wisps of wind from the South China Sea and refreshing sounds of water breaking along the coastline rocks will surely leave an everlasting impression to each golfer’s journey. Metaphorically speaking, The Dunes is like a comely female that passes us by; men just can’t resist turning their heads and gazing longingly at this drop dead beautiful site. www.shenzhougolf.com www.starwoodhotels.com Golf Vacations
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Special Story
Top 10
Destinations on the Rise
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1
Sihanoukville, Cambodia The white sand beaches
of Sihanoukville are the coastal Cambodian city’s biggest draw. Spend a blissful day snorkeling or splashing in the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Explore the mangroves, waterfalls and wildlife of splendid Ream National Park, or rent a dirt bike for some awesome all-terrain exploration. A Saturday evening at Otres Market promises lively music, terrific food and a true taste of local culture.
Must-sees
• Angkor Destination Travel • Ream National Park • Snake House
Da Nang, Vietnam
2
Da Nang is laid-back and friendly. Culinar y tours are a hugely popular way to experience local flavors. After you’ve stuffed yourself with bold noodle soups and savor y street foods, walk it off by exploring the limestone caves and Buddhist grottos of the Marble Mountains. Be sure to time your nighttime stroll so you pass the Dragon Bridge when its “head” breathes fire over the River Han. Must-sees
• Lady Buddha • Non Nuoc Beach • Son Tra Mountain (Monkey Mountain)
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3 Limassol, Cyprus Cyprus's
second-largest city appeals to a wide range of tourists, from those interested in sun and sand vacations to those who prefer to delve into the island's culture at its museums and sites of archaeological interest. This large seaside resort on Akrotiri Bay on the sunny southern coast offers lively nightlife and a slew of energetic festivals. Accommodation options range from villas and self-catering apartments to luxurious hotels.
Manaus, Brazil
4
When you can trek through the rainforests in the morning and take in a tear-jerking opera at night, you know you're in a special place. Manaus offers a rich variety of nature, culture, art and dining. Explore the lush vegetation of Amazonian jungle on a guided backpacking or river tour, or sample the colorful bounty of the Mercado Adolpho Lisboa. The stately Amazonas Opera House was built with the finest materials, and inside you'll be blown away by powerful performances. Must-sees
• Teatro Amazonas • Encontro das Aguas • Museu de Numismática Bernardo Ramos
Must-sees
• Kourion (Curium) • Omodos Village • Kourion Beach
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5 Naha, Japan Go from the 13th centur y
to the 21st in one day in Naha. Its ancient Ryukyu Kingdom centerpiece, Shuri Castle, has been restored and is the city's top tourist attraction. Meanwhile, on Kokusai-dori (International Boulevard), the pace never lets up as locals and tourists hop from restaurants to bars to nightclubs.
Must-sees
• Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum • Shurijo Castle • Tsushimamaru Museum
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Bodrum City, Turkey Bodrum has experienced a renaissance in the last half centur y that has transformed this once-sleepy community into one of Turkey's most popular vacation hotspots. Writers, intellectuals, artists and musicians have long called this Aegean town home, or second-home, attracting a vibrant cultural scene paralleled only by the town's nightlife. Windswept beaches and glittering waters provide the backdrop to the perfect beach getaway. Must-sees
• Castle of St. Peter • Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology • Zeki Muren Arts Museum 72
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Hurghada, Egypt Stunning coral reefs and turquoise waters perfect for windsurfing have made Hurghada, on Egypt's Red Sea Coast, a busy resort town. Within easy reach of the stunning Giftun Islands and the Eastern Arabian Desert, Hurghada has seen enormous amounts of development in the past decade. It’s a relatively easy beach escape for Europeans, and some of the world's best diving and snorkeling sites are just offshore. Must-sees
• Hurghada Grand Aquarium • Sharm El Naga • New Marina
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Kazan, Russia On the banks of the Volga River, Kazan sits austerely, its cityscape a visual confection of architecture that somehow manages to be both playful and severe. No matter your spiritual inclination, you simply must visit the Temple of All Religions, a Technicolor cultural center built by artist Ildar Khanov. Though still a work in progress, the "temple" is a feast for the eyes—and the spirit. 74
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Must-sees
• Kazan Kremlin • Kul Sharif Mosque • Cathedral of the Apostles Peter and Paul
Eilat, Israel Charming Eilat is one of Israel’s most popular resort cities. Nestled at the Northern tip of the Red Sea, Eilat’s warm, clear waters are a huge draw for divers, while the reefs of Coral Beach Nature Reser ve are perfect for snorkelers. Above sea level, the ancient copper mines of Timna National Park are begging to be explored, as are the shops, bars and restaurants of the seaside promenade. Must-sees
• Timna National Park • Red Canyon • Coral Beach Nature Reserve
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Ao Nang, Thailand The beaches of Ao Nang
are picture-perfect stretches of gleaming sand, sparkling waters and candy-colored sunsets. Book a snorkel or scuba tour for some under water exploration, or just relax on the deck as you cruise between local islands on a vintage teak boat. Rock climbers will drool over the limestone crags and cliffs of nearby Rai Leh.
Must-sees
• Phra Nang Beach • Poda Island • Pranang Cave *For more information and details, visit www.tripadvisor.com Golf Vacations
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The 19th
Heaven on eartH
Up in the skies, a mystical kingdom transcends our earthly soil, weaving its magical spell on whosoever is fortunate enough to ascend its heights. - By L E S T E R L I M C R E d I T I M ag E S To a M a n R E S o RT S
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“Throughout Bhutan, strings of these multicoloured flags hang almost everywhere; on bridges, on the tops of hills and high mountain ranges, from tree to tree, and wherever there are open windy spaces. These flags are known as Lungta prayer flags.”
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Peering out from the plane as it descends, I eagerly try to get a glimpse of the spectacular mountain range that I was told to look out for as I arrive in Bhutan. On a foggy August day though, there are no aforementioned spectacular views to be seen. I initially wonder if that is a sign of things to come, perhaps Bhutan is not as scenic and beautiful as has been described. That thought is dispelled moments later as the plane makes a sharp turn and suddenly, we are flying between two hilly peaks towards the airport. It is close enough to the sides that I can see the houses and vegetation on the hills. The unique landing approach, turning into a narrow corridor and landing in the valley of Paro, is the first of many unique and unforgettable moments in Bhutan. The Kingdom of Bhutan, located in the Himalayas between India and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, the landlocked country has been relatively untouched by modern society and so still preserves many cultural and physical traits from centuries ago. However, Bhutan is not a backward, primitive country. They started having terrestrial TV and Internet connectivity in the last 15 years, finally embracing modern conveniences into untouched beauty. Depending on your cultural frame of reference, Bhutan is known for a few things; its concept of the Gross National Happiness Index, the spectacular Tiger’s Nest monastery, and as the location for Hong Kong celebrity power couple Tony Leung and Carina Lau’s wedding venue. Upon arrival in Paro, passengers getting off the DrukAir flight immediately begin whipping out their cameras to take photographs of the scenery. And this is just at the airport. The act
of whipping out cameras would be a frequent occurrence throughout the stay in Bhutan. Every tourist must be accompanied by a guide and driver and they duly introduce themselves to me as I exit the airport. Provided by the resort I am staying at, Amankora, they are invaluable in showing me the sights of Bhutan and explaining the culture, traditions and the significance of the many historical buildings in Bhutan. Looking at pictures of Bhutan, and somewhere in the picture, a line of what appears to be small multi-coloured flags can be found. It is no different in real life. Throughout Bhutan, strings of these multi-coloured flags hang almost everywhere; on bridges, on the tops of hills and high mountain ranges, from tree to tree, and wherever there are open windy spaces. These flags are known as Lungta prayer flags and come in sets of five colours. The five colours are arranged from left to right in a specific order: blue, white, red, green, and yellow. Blue symbolizes the sky and space, white symbolizes the air and wind, red symbolizes fire, green symbolizes water, and yellow symbolizes earth. According to traditional Tibetan medicine, health and harmony are produced through the balance of the five elements. Prayers, known as mantras, are printed on the flags and when the wind blows through the flags, the blessings are released into the world.
Thimphu
The first stop on my journey is two nights in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. I am staying at the beautiful and luxurious Amankora resort which has conveniently arranged every part of my trip from visas to the itinerary. The guide and driver are Amankora trained staff so they are specially trained to pamper guests with the luxury service that Aman is known for. I first go to Buddha Point, where the world’s tallest statue of Buddha is located. Standing at 169 feet, it sits on a hilltop and towers over the city. From Buddha Point, there is a spectacular view of the city and the hills and mountains beyond. Amid the majestic landscapes sits the Royal Thimphu Golf Course, the only golf course in Bhutan open to public. A 9-hole tract, this is no Jack Nicklaus design for sure and expectations should be managed. However, at 7,700 feet above sea level, the air is thin and the ball travels far, and that should itself make for an interesting round. Generally though, golf here would more suitably be an activity to take in the breathtaking views of the soaring ranges and Trashi Chhoe Dzong, originally a Buddhist monastery and fortress, but now the seat of the Bhutan government.
OPENING PICTURE FROM PREVIOUS PAGE: View of Thimphu City LEFT PAGE: Lester Lim at Bhutan. THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Gangtey Valley; Exterior at Punakha Lodge; Exterior at Paro.
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Bhutan is known for producing unique and innovative postage stamps, and whether or not one is a philatelist, there is a good reason to do so. In Thimphu, the post office produces personalised legal tender stamps with your face on it, which makes for an interesting surprise when you mail a postcard back home. As night falls in Bhutan, Amankora has arranged for me a rare opportunity to meet His Eminence Mynak Trulku, the 12th reincarnate lama of Mynak Rinpoche. The discussion on Buddhism and the strong spiritual element that runs through all Bhutanese in the kingdom provides an appropriate end to the night.
punakha
The next day, I descend from Thimphu at 2,600 metres to Punakha at 1,240 metres above sea level. The journey, across a winding highway that really is no more than a single and sometimes double lane road, takes about four hours. It is a winding “highway” which is no more than a single or double lane road that winds through the mountains and past the Dochula Pass, which at its peak, is more than 3,000 metres high. At the pass, it is possible to see the Himalayan mountain range in the distance. However, my journey takes me further down and upon arriving at the Punakha valley, I am taken to Amankora Punakha, which has to have one of the most spectacular hotel entrances in the world. To get to the resort, we have to navigate a narrow wood and metal bridge across a raging river to; not one for the faint-hearted but by keeping an eye out front where a golf buggy stands, paradise awaits deep into the hills. Amankora Punakha’s main dining hall was formerly a centuries old local farmhouse, many of which dot the Bhutan landscape. Meticulously restored, it is now the place where guests amuse themselves, eat and relax. Here, the rooms are similar to the one I just left in Thimphu, which is also reminiscent of the other three across the country. This is so that as you travel throughout Bhutan with Aman, there is a sense of familiarity at each stop. To say that the Punakha valley is beautiful is to run out of adjectives. Pictures cannot adequately convey what you see with your own eyes. The beauty of the lush, green valley and hillsides, with low-lying clouds delicately covering the peaks of the hills, is truly breathtaking. The twin rivers, known and the Mo Chu and Po Chu, meaning female and male rivers, dominate Punakha’s landscape. Naturally, one of the first activities I do is to go white water rafting. We start further upriver where our inexperienced group is led by an expert guide. While the waters are not particularly rough, it is still an exciting morning that offers a different perspective of the Bhutan countryside from the river, passing under bridges adorned with Lungta prayer flags and admiring the distant views of the peaks of the valley. The journey ends close to the next must-visit site, the Punakha Dzong. The word Dzong roughly means fortress. For centuries, they have been built on strategic locations as a defence against an invasion. Dzongs were first built in Bhutan in 12th century by Lam Gyalwa
LEFT PAGE: Tiger's Nest.
THIS PAGE: Bumthang Courtyard Bonfire.
Lhanangpa, an important leader of Lhapa Kagyud and Punakha Dzong is the second largest and second oldest in Bhutan which also served as its capital from 1637 to 1907 before it was moved to Thimphu, and the first national assembly was hosted here in 1953. The majestic structure has seen many momentous occasions in the history of the Kingdom, with one of the most recent the wedding of the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and his fiancé, Jetsun Pema. The Punakha Dzong is the image that most people see when looking up pictures of Bhutan as it is a truly majestic building, sitting right of the confluence of the Mo and Chu rivers. Later in the afternoon, I watch an archery competition taking place along the riverbank. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan, and the participants in the competition are using traditional bows, not the kind used in Olympic competition. Demonstrating great skill, they hit the target from over 40 metres. Back at Amankora, my guide has arranged for me to try out the national sport with the same equipment that the locals use. Despite some dedicated coaching I fail to regularly hit the target even from 10 metres. Golf Vacations
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“The Punakha Dzong is the image that most people see when looking up pictures of Bhutan as it is a truly majestic building, sitting right of the confluence of the Mo and Chu rivers.” paro
The last stop in my discovery of Bhutan is Paro, where I had flown in almost a week earlier. Once again checking into the familiar luxurious room at Amankora Paro, the undoubted highlight of my time in Bhutan was visiting the famous Tiger’s Nest, or Taktsang Lhakhang. It is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious site. The monastery is perched precariously on a cliff face 900 metres above the Paro Valley. It was first built in 1692 at a cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 7th century A.D. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site atop the back of a tigress and meditated in the cave for 3 years, 3 months, 3 days and 3 hours in order to subdue evil demons residing within it. The cave has been considered a sacred site ever since. The hike begins at the crack of dawn. Amankora, with its excellent service and attentiveness, has prepared a picnic lunch for me to be had along the way. Amankora’s packages are full board so all meals are included, which allows you flexibility in meals and meal times. Even laundry is taken care of by the 82
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LEFT PAGE FROM TOP: Punakha Dzong; Punakha Courtyard. THIS PAGE FROM TOP: Punakha Lodge Courtyard Terrace; Interior at Thimphu Lodge Suite; Bathroom interior at Thimphu Lodge Suite
excellent Aman staff. It takes over two hours of hiking uphill to reach the Tiger’s Nest and it is well worth the hike. Approaching it from a distance away on an adjacent peak, it is breathtaking. The sheer cliff walls drop down out of your line of sight, and right at the top of the cliff walls sits an intricate and beautiful monastery, almost defying belief. It looks like an architectural impossibility and should not be there. This is far and away the most amazing sight in Bhutan. Inside the monastery, monks go about their daily routine and it is possible to sit in one of the rooms to have a quiet moment to reflect and that is what I do on my final day here in this heavenly kingdom. The unbelievable sights and amazing experiences in Bhutan, I realize it is not possible to adequately describe in words and pictures. You have to be there, to take in the spectacular landscapes of mountains, hills, valleys and rivers. You have to be there to experience the warmth of the Bhutanese and immerse in their culture. You have to be there to see with your own eyes the incredible landmarks of Bhutan that lie unadulterated through time. You simply have to experience Bhutan. www.amanresorts.com www.drukair.com.bt Golf Vacations
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Choice Resorts
DATAI The ELS CLUB,
An old golfing track given a new lease of life by multiple Major winner and esteemed golf course designer, Ernie Els. - BY c h r i s fo l l e Y
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It is surely the talk among golfers all over Asia. Malaysia can already proudly boast
OPENING sPrEad - PrEVIOUs PaGE: Ernie Els’ design hugs the andaman sea, with the coast of Thailand visible in the background.
of having some of the finest courses in the region but the newly opened Els Club Teluk Datai on the island of Langkawi promises to be the biggest hitter of all. We were privileged enough to be invited to played the keenly awaited Ernie Els creation, managed by Troon Golf, soon after its soft opening in April, and was not disappointed. Regular visitors to Langkawi will know stunning Datai Bay, on the north coast of the island with views to Thailand and home to Langkawi’s most exclusive resorts, the Four Seasons and the Andaman. There has been an 18-hole track at Datai for some time now, tied to the hotel and resort but Els, the legendary South African golfer, has shaped a completely new course on the same site. Its entry into the Asian market has been noted already, being
THIs PaGE: rocky streams dissect a number of holes, such as the 6th. rIGHT PaGE FrOM TOP: Langkawi’s highest peak, Mount Cinang, towers over many holes; the par three 17th.
There too is the Hornbill Cafe and Bar, which can seat 75 people and opens out onto the 18th green. On the first floor above is a private members bar with a terrace, overlooking a space large enough for a helicopter – when we visited, the King of Malaysia had arrived, bringing his entourage over for a sneak preview of the course he was to play the next day. Come July, the club hopes to attract 750 members, a sizeable proportion likely to be from Singapore as well as Malaysia. Membership will also include access to Els’s other Asia projects including the Els Coast Course on the Desaru Coast near Johor Bahru, which will boast a 27-hole complex set to open in 2015. Another is Els Valley, also set in Desaru, and an 18-holer designed by the legendary South African’s great friend and rival, Vijay Singh, set to open in 2016.
On the first floor above is a private members bar with a terrace, overlooking a space large enough for a helicopter – when we visited, the King of Malaysia had arrived, bringing his entourage over for a sneak preview of the course he was to play the next day. named the region’s Best Golf Course at the 2014 Asia-Pacific Property Awards. Your first impression, as you wind through the centuries-old rainforest on Datai Bay Road as you drive up from Kuah Town, is the imposing clubhouse, right next to a putting practise green and the first tee. Here you will find pristine locker rooms stocked with Molton Brown toiletries and a pro shop with an impressive range of Els Club branded clothes and accessories.
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The entire project is being run by Destination Resorts and Hotels (DRH), established in 2010 by the Malaysian government’s investment unit. Apart from golf, DRH has also taken over nearby Datai Langkawi, an award-winning eco-tourism resort with 110 rooms, suites and villas, and 14 new beachfront pool villas. The resort also boasts two swimming pools, a beach club and an award-winning spa. One of the big talking points of The Els Club Teluk Datai is that apart from a patch of scrubby sand in front of the 17th tee, there are no bunkers on the par 72, 6,750-yard course. It is a deliberate ploy. Even though the topography is quite flat, they could easily have included some sand to get your wedge out of the bag but Els instead chose to use the rainforest as the core of his design. Obstacles therefore come in the form of a long rocky stream that winds through a number of holes, some quite small greens offering little landing space to work with and the thick jungle that you have little chance of finding balls from. Wildlife abounds too in the form of eagles, hornbills, monkeys and huge monitor lizards. Two of the holes are even named after monkeys – the Macaque (the 9th) and the Dusky Leaf (11th). I could not verify the presence of any snakes in the undergrowth but braver souls may tell us otherwise. The early holes are straightforward enough, the 359-yard first, Lotus, offering a wide, pristine fairway after you drive over a small brook and bridge
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The par 5 529-yard 8th, Eagle’s Nest, is not surprisingly considered the hardest hole on the course. Your drive again requires you to go over a brook and bridge but the water follows you round left towards the green, which is protected by a very narrow channel for your approach shot. to eventually reach a slightly raised green. The second, Majestic, a 364-yard dogleg right, requires a long booming drive down a narrower channel. But those greens are lightning quick and disappointing scores are more likely to come through exasperating 3-putts as you struggle to judge the pace and dip of the marble slabs. Fortunately the carts have an excellent GPS system, the Visage, to guide you as pin position and accurate distance gauging is key on this course. 88
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LEFT PaGE FrOM TOP: the clubhouse, with the Hornbill café overlooking the 18th green; The green at the oceanside 7th, Teluk datai; the brand new men’s locker room. THIs PaGE: The 10th, Peak, against a backdrop of rainforest.
Your first sight of the Andaman Sea comes at the 157-yard fifth, Illusion, a par 3 with the green just in front of the water. The sixth, Tranquility, returns inland requiring good judgment to clear the brook that protects the green. Then, you arrive at the tricky 569-yard seventh, the first of two consecutive par 5s on the front nine, heads to the ocean again but this time there is a double dog-leg. Hit your drive too hard and the ball will run out; you may struggle to make par as the rainforest comes into play once more. The par 5 529-yard 8th, Eagle’s Nest, is not surprisingly considered the hardest hole on the course. Your drive again requires you to go over a brook and bridge but the water follows you round left towards the green, which is protected by a very narrow channel for your approach shot. The back nine starts with the Peak, named appropriately as the limestone peak of the giant Mat Cincang looms large over the back of the green. Two lovely holes are the 14th, Nature Calling, and 15th, Solitude. The Par 4, 359-yard 14th requires a drive that has to stay right and is not too long - the hole then turns left via a narrow channel and goes downhill, with the green protected by trees. The 15th is a 151-yard par three, where you drive from
an elevated position and over an attractive lily pond. The green is wide but undulating at the back. This is followed by Paradise Found, a 394-yard stroke index 2 par 4 and offering a very sharp dogleg that guides you back towards the sea to reach the green. Accuracy and distance are key for your drive, otherwise you face a blind second shot. Another aesthetically stunning hole. By then your eyes will be on the finish: you will doubtlessly be drenched with sweat from the heat and humidity – playing here with a trundler or carrying bags is quite a challenge, even though you are allowed to. As you walk up the 18th, you will be forgiven for eyeing up the cold beers at the bar behind the green (wide open and inviting) rather than focusing on your putt to finish. But certainly without question, the Els Club at Datai is a terrific addition to the Malaysian golfing landscape and one which will soon become a destination unto itself. www.elsclubmalaysia.com
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Collection ★ Time Is time a measure of travel?
LA FABRIQUE DU TEMPS Louis Vuitton
For Louis Vuitton, the adventure started in 1854. A journey strongly influenced by the art of travel. In 2002, a new territory was explored: time, with the first Louis Vuitton watch, with a meaningful name in the world of watchmaking: Tambour… Since then, the recognisable design of this watch has given rise to a whole collection of timekeepers for men and women. Simple Tambour models and complicated versions (GMT, chronograph, tourbillon, Spin Time, minute repeater) which have all enabled Louis Vuitton to remain true to its demanding standards in the quest for the exceptional and to make its name as an acclaimed watchmaker. Then came the new Emprise line and, this year, a piece inspired by the House’s heritage: the Louis Vuitton Escale Worldtime watch. To express its know-how and its quest for excellence in the universe of high-end craftsmanship in the art of watchmaking, Louis Vuitton chose to bring together the finest specialists. While the heart of the House continues to beat in Paris, the timepieces see the light of day in Geneva, Switzerland, in workshops whose name alone epitomises its spirit: La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. Today, Louis Vuitton watchmaking is embarking on a new stage in its history, as it settles in Geneva, in a workshop where creative independence is encouraged. All the trades and talent linked to the high-end watchmaking tradition are now gathered there to promote innovation, the watchword in La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. To master all the secrets of quality watchmaking to better reinterpret them with greater skill, to combine a watchmaker’s independent spirit with the dynamics of a great House, to provide an environment which is both high-tech and allows the imagination to flourish: these are the core principles of the watchmaking workshop, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. The tools to invent tomorrow
To embark on this new chapter in watchmaking history, Louis Vuitton has created a space which is conducive to creativity. This workshop brings together all the trades and know-how required for making watches, and at its heart, the respect for tradition, craftsmanship and innovation are celebrated in the marriage of travel and time. Human-scale workshops, of about 4,000 square metres, bathed in optimal light, allow the master watchmakers, the engineers, the designers and all the time experts to share the same creative energy. Redesigning the space and rethinking the architecture, bringing workforce and talent closer together, allying state-of-the-art technologies and traditional tools: this, too, is what innovation is all about. By placing know-how at the service of innovation, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton retains its traditional feel to allow the hand of Man to give its very best. 90
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Research & Development: the passion for innovation, the culture of exchange
Imagining tomorrow, inventing the future. These are the values in the Geneva-based Louis Vuitton workshop. Gathered under one roof, the talents and ideas of watchmakers, concept creators and designers can be expressed and shared every day in complete freedom, which helps to foster creativity and innovation. In keeping with the best watchmaking tradition, at Louis Vuitton, Research & Development means: Fabrique du Temps. Innovative movements to move watchmaking forward
In their unending search for innovation, the master watchmakers of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton give free rein to all their creative ideas. For them, there is only one philosophy: to think differently and to move further along the road towards innovation. Developing new complications linked to travel and the art of watchmaking in its most vibrant expression can only be achieved by imagining something completely new at every step, uncompromisingly‌ Only the mastery of traditional know-how and handicraft techniques affords such freedom and absolute creative independence. Time and again improving functionalities, readability or user-friendliness, designing new dials, enriching the collections with innovative models that reflect quality and the search for excellence: by exploring new, creative ideas that are outside the box, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton is making today the watches of tomorrow.
Developing new complications linked to travel and the art of watchmaking in its most vibrant expression can only be achieved by imagining something completely new at every step, uncompromisingly‌
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Innovating to conjure up time for women
The spirit of Louis Vuitton is expressed on a woman’s wrists. The House’s know-how appears across the range of collections for women, from casual watches to watches with refined faces. That is how pieces like Tambour Lovely Cup, in steel or ceramic, were conceived: waterproof at 100 metres watchcase in a cruise spirit. Refined cases as shown by the Tambour Monogram line with subtle reflections, the Bijou Secret collection, concealing its mystery under a swivel diamond-set cover, or the Dentelle de Monogram watch, with its delicate mother-of-pearl skeleton dial, with Monogram flowers patern.
Bringing talent and trades together to foster creativity. Thinking differently and freeing the imagination to come up with new ideas. 92
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Arts and crafts to marry watchmaking and jewellery
At Louis Vuitton, the same demand for excellence is found as much in the jewellers’ work on the Place Vendôme in Paris, as in the watchmakers’ workshop in Geneva, Switzerland. Talent meets know-how to create exceptional pieces, such as the Dentelle de Monogram watch. To turn this model into a truly delicate and refined jewel, its creators imagined a mother-of-pearl skeleton dial capturing the iconic Monogram of the House. For this model, the creators were inspired by the “Voyage dans le Temps” high jewellery collection with a pearly white or Polynesian mother-of-pearl dial, reproducing the emblematic Monogram from the Maison, now highlighting the brilliance of a diamond-set bezel. However, they had to deal with an almost impossible challenge: to reduce a natural mother-of-pearl disc to the finest thickness possible before carving the motifs. It was only after painstaking research carried out by all the teams that the desired precise effect was achieved. And it was this real lacework on a material as fragile as mother-of-pearl that inspired the model’s name. The alliance between the jeweller’s talent and the watchmaker’s art finds its finest expression here, thanks to the innovative spirit of passionate craftsmen. Manufacturing quality: more than just a standard, a philosophy
Since the creation of the first Louis Vuitton watch in 2002, quality has been an absolute and unquestionable priority. Quality of design, manufacturing, production, assembly, finishings, and more. Known for its excellence, Louis Vuitton stays true to its reputation yet again by defining the highest standards for the smallest components, whether they are visible or hidden deep inside the case. Emprise watch: the quintessence of graphic lines and elegance
The Emprise watch reveals a modern, elegant woman. The volume of its square, symmetrical case creates a sharp, clearly defined outline, enlivened by the reflections of its doublebevelled mirror and the brilliance of its diamonds. The trunk’s structural elements can be found here as decorative leitmotifs, offering strong perspectives. The strap comes in either satin or leather embossed with a gros-grain pattern. Daytime or evening, in relaxed moments or precious instants, each of these pieces brings together the beauties of time.
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At a time when borders are becoming increasingly blurred, Louis Vuitton is proposing an original interpretation of the “Worldtime” function which will appeal to globe-trotters and businessmen in search.
Louis Vuitton Escale Worldtime. The new world of Louis Vuitton
In their heyday in the 20th century, the oceans were crossed aboard luxury liners. And for their elegant passengers, it would have been unthinkable to embark without their Louis Vuitton steamer trunks. These were often distinguished by their personal initials, coats of arms and other coloured ornaments that their owners would have hand-painted on their valuable luggage to distinguish it from all others. This colourful universe and vivid personal touches have inspired the creation of the Louis Vuitton Escale Worldtime watch, in a style at once original, playful and exclusive. Boasting 38 bright shades applied according to a miniature painting technique, its dial is a call to travel, an invitation to journey towards the horizon and through time. To know what time it is anywhere on the planet, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton devised and created a completely new feature called “Worldtime” feature. The Escale watch shows the world time without using a single hand. Time in 24 time zones is shown by three different mobile discs. When innovation, beauty and exclusivity come together in this way, the passion for travel knows no bounds. Golf Vacations
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Resort Golf Academy
Sea ISland GeorGIa
A specialist golf academy that counts the world’s finest Tour players as their visitors. - By Dav i D J. W h y t e
If Orlando is the touring pro’s first choice as a
home base in the USA, then Sea Island in Georgia is a very close second. There is a clutch of big name elites living on this beautiful barrier island only an hour north of Jacksonville and equidistant south of Savannah, Georgia. The area has several distinct advantages with its own private airport, a great yearround climate, safety for player’s families and fantastic golf practice facilities. It also has the resort at Sea Island. The popular guidebook term ‘5-star’ originated in the USA back in the late 1950’s with the Forbes Travel Guide (then known as Mobil Travel Guide) sending teams of anonymous inspectors to scour the country in search of the best hotels. To attain 5-stars, now as then, is a badge of great honour indicating a property has met the inspectors’ stringent standards through flawless service, engaging and personable staff, original décor, perfectly prepared and presented cuisine and a hundred other fine details that make for a faultless stay. The Forbes rating is now extended to restaurants and spas and Sea Island has achieved no less than four 5-star awards. That’s quite a clutch covering The Cloister (accommodation) The Lodge (accommodation), Georgian Room (dining) and The Spa at Sea Island. Indeed, Sea Island is the only resort in the world to have attained a total of four Forbes 5-star accolades. And they have done it for 6 years in a row. So, I felt a little star-struck venturing into the Golf Learning Center, now newly upgraded and rebranded as The Sea Island Golf Performance Centre, where the list of visitors reads like a veritable ‘Who’s Who’ on the PGA Tour. The young bloods are here; Brandt Snedeker, U.S. Open Champion Lucas Glover, 96
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and Master’s champion Zach Johnson, Harris English, Ben Kohles, Jonas Blixt, Natalie Gulbis, Morgan Pressel and many others along with a few older campaigners such as Davis Love III. The game’s best come to train with Sea Island’s cadre of first class teaching professionals. In short, if you’re serious about your game, as well as enjoying one of the finest resorts in the world, Sea Island is the place to come. The Golf Performance Center includes 300 yards of teeing area with multiple target greens framed by ball-snarling bunkers to help you focus. The short game zone has three chipping greens and three putting greens, and a secondary tee area is located at the back of the range that allows students to practice shots in different wind directions. If you need to get fitted, the Golf Performance Center offers dual fitness assessment capabilities including NG360 (Nike Golf Performance) and TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) programs that complements with golf specific workout routines to help players of all levels extend their flexibility and strength building regimes.
PhilosoPhy
Whether they’re dealing with an early learner or top rank professional, the philosophy at Sea Island is to create a comprehensive program suited precisely to each individual and covering five core competencies:
OPENING PICTURE: Seaside Course. LEFT PAGE , BELOW PICTURES: Golf Performance Center.
THIS PAGE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Chipping and putting practice green; Seaside course; A golfer at the seaside course.
1) Long Game
The long game is comprised of the swing fundamentals of all full swings. This core competency is paramount to developing a repeatable athletic motion that develops a consistent ball flight.
2) Short Game
The Short Game is comprised of core skills associated with all non full swing motions including chipping, pitching, putting, and bunker play.
3) Golf Fitness
Golf Fitness incorporates the specialised strengthening and flexibility training utilised by industry experts to promote consistent performance and sustainability.
4) Club Fitting
Club Fitting resources utilise the TrackMan Launch Monitor which provides feedback that allows for the optimisation of launch conditions, spin rates and overall distance through the correct club manufacturer and set make-up.
5) Mental Game
The Mental Game trains you how to develop proven mental processes and practice routines to produce consistent results on the course.
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PUTTInG TIPS Top 50 putting expert Mike Shannon on making more 10-foot putts.
THIS PAGE OPENING PICTURE: Mike Shannon, a specialist at Sea Island’s Golf Performance Center. THIS PAGE BOTTOM: The correct connection. RIGHT PAGE: David J. Whyte demos using the larger muscles of chest and back at Sea Island's Golf Performance Center.
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Attending a teaching session at Sea Island’s Golf Performance Center is akin to going to a hospital. You are assigned to a specialist who deals in a very specific part of your game. Mike Shannon, who invented the Laser Optics Putting Improvement System currently used by more than 100 touring professionals, is one of them. “Sometimes we need to look at the mechanics, other times it has more to do with the stroke. Or it could be speed and distance control. Or perhaps reading the breaks in the green. The same things apply to beginning golfers all the way to Tour players. Whatever the issue, our diagnostic system will highlight the problem then we can set about fixing it.” “Putting is the part of the game that has changed the most over the past 50 years mainly because putting surfaces have changed. Up until around 1965 the putting stroke was more of a flick of the wrist, necessary to get the ball up and rolling on top of the grass. Putting surfaces then were almost like today’s fringes.
“After 1965, the best players on Tour were beginning to eliminate the small muscles. Arnold Palmer would get down and use his hands whereas Jack Nicklaus used his arms more. His hands didn’t move independently at all. The putting stroke changed again in the mid 90s with young players who had grown up on faster putting greens. Their technique consisted of using the larger muscles of the body, the upper back and the upper chest. Now every player on the tour uses that stroke. That’s how the putting stroke has evolved to where it’s at today, mainly to suit these super-fast greens.”
Finding the PerFect Ball Position
Address position and putting alignment is based on the dominant eye. If your putter is aimed two degrees open at address on a 10-foot putt you will be aiming at the right edge of the cup. The best putters on tour average 5/10th of 1 degree either right or left. “People ask me why so many Tour players make so many 15foot putts and the answer is that they practice their ball position everyday. The rest of us just get comfortable and that critical point – the position of the ball in your stance – can move significantly on every putt. We all need to set up to as near-as-possible to the perfect spot in order for the rest of the stroke to operate precisely.”
Using the TOMI system to measure path at impact, stroke path and rotation and finally alignment at impact, you can find your perfect spot.
connecting the Big Muscles
A common theme with all good putters is that they draw their arms into the body and they stay connected throughout the stroke. Stand straight and extend the putter out in front of you. Then bring the elbows back to the front part of the rib cage. The forearms and shaft should remain level. This creates a 1-plane putting stroke while creating connection between the upper arms and torso. Tilt forward and address the ball. Now, to instigate the stroke, you want to feel like your chest is actually moving the putter. The putter shouldn’t move until the chest moves, both back and forward.
griP Pressure
About 10 percent of players on Tour say they grip their putter tighter than the other golf clubs. Another 10 percent say they barely put their hands on the club because it gives them a better sense of touch and feel. The remaining 80 percent say they apply the same pressure as they use on every other club. You should experiment. Try each method until you find which is best suited to your feel and performance.
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Sea ISland reSorT For exceptional quality and security that world leaders would trust.
LEFT PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Lodge; The Lodge at sunset; Fountain at The Spa at Sea Island. THIS PAGE: The lounge at The Cloister.
Like everything in the American South, Sea Island’s Cloister Resort has
moved slowly and gracefully to take its place as one of the finest 5-star resorts in the world. The barrier island was uninhabited until 1924 when a series of causeways was built to link Brunswick and St. Simons Island with the rest of the USA. With five miles of powdery white sand and balmy breezes it was a natural draw for holiday and homemakers. House lots were sold and a cottage colony soon started to thrive. The Cloister was established in 1928 and even at its inaugural ceremony it seemed destined for great things. President Calvin Coolidge came as one of its first guests and, posing for press photographs as he planted an oak sapling gave The Cloister a major boost and more bookings than it could handle. Coolidge’s repeated visits also indicated how safe the resort was for security-conscious dignitaries and politicians. This was reemphasized in 2006 when Sea Island hosted the G8 Summit, the world’s most influential leaders safely sequestered to consider world economic issues. Sea Island with The Cloister and its twin hotel, The Lodge, along with its spa and golf facilities is a highly polished act that warrants a higher price tag. There are no less than nine dining venues throughout the property including the renowned Forbes Five-Star Georgian Room but all F&B establishments here are world class. The Lodge, which is the golf clubhouse for example, has a menu, service and ambience to rival any 5-star restaurant in the world. There are three exceptional 18-hole championship courses. The Seaside Course is a links-style layout overlooking salt marshes and winding through a landscape of small lakes and wonderful Georgia plantation trees. Originally designed in 1929 by Harry S. Colt and Charles Alison, it was updated in 1999 by Tom Fazio.
The Plantation Course was originally designed by Walter Travis in 1926 then masterfully renovated by Rees Jones who brought the course back to life in dramatic style. Oak and cedar along with tidal creeks and expansive lakes give definition to the amply curving fairways of the Plantation, a ‘parkland by the sea’ while opening up to some excellent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. The Retreat Course is mainly a product of Davis Love III and his brother Mark who began renovating this old seaside in 2000. By all accounts the refurbishment created an almost new golf course but it is largely private, open only to the occasional guest of the resort. Overall, there is a great feeling of heritage at Sea Island. They close the golf course down every night to the wail of bagpipes with predinner guests lining up on the veranda to enjoy the sunset and haunting tunes. www.seaisland.com
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Gastronomy
DIAGEO WORLD CLASS & CELLAR 11 exclusive cocktail pairing dinner
World-class experienced bartender showcasing the craft of modern cocktail making while pairing with Cellar 11 gastronomic cuisine.
- boutique
Bangkok, 25 November 2014 – Diageo Moët Hennessy (Thailand), Thailand’s leading importer and distributor of premium wines and spirits, is collaborating with Cellar 11 Wine & Bistro located on Sukhumvit Soi 11 to bring you an exclusive world-class cocktail pairing with Cellar 11 bistro cuisine as part of the Diageo world-class programme. Diageo World Class, covering over 50 markets worldwide, is the world’s largest and most exclusive mixology education programme that celebrates the skills and creativity of bartenders and introduces the latest cocktail making trends to the global community. Ittichai ‘Big’ Benjathanasombat, the Managing Director of Cellar 11 Wine & Bistro opens the doors of his warm and inviting locale, housing many rooms and spaces for the guests to experience. From the ‘Moët & Chandon Grand Cellar’ room, to the ‘Robert Mondavi Room’, the ‘Grange Room’, the ‘Cigar Room’, and the country’s largest Enomatic Wine Dispenser System featuring 32 bottles, there is certainly something for everyone.
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- in the port
- chocolate fondant
On this special evening, Cellar 11 is proud to announce their resident Diageo World Class bartender, Sompong ‘Peter’ Chaina who will showcase how the art of cocktail making can be concocted to a perfect pairing and balance with a 5-star, 5-course dining experience. All Cellar 11 patrons will also be delighted to know that world-class bartender Sompong ‘Peter’ Chaina can now be found making world-class cocktails on a daily basis exclusively at Cellar 11. So stop by any night to experience culinary flair, the extensive wine list of over 1,000 selections from around the world, indulge yourself in the many themed rooms and of course experience the world-class cocktails. Cellar 11 is open everyday for dinner from 6.00pm until midnight with last order at 11.00pm and on Saturday-Sunday for the famous weekend brunch from 11.00am-2.30pm.
- rack of lamb
- mayan rhapsody
For reservations, please contact: 02 255 5833-35 www.cellar11.com www.facebook.com/cellar11 Golf Vacations
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Fairway
WESTWOOD DOES IT AGAIN at the Thailand Golf Championship.
England’s Lee Westwood claimed a unique Thailand
Golf Championship double when he staged a fabulous fight back with a final round five-under-par 67 to win the US$1 million Asian Tour event in mid-December. The former world number one won the inaugural edition in 2011 and made it another victory to remember by signing off with a four-day total of eight-under-par 280 at the Amata Spring Country Club. Third-round leader Marcus Fraser of Australia and Germany’s Martin Kaymer had their chances to force extra-time with Westwood but fell just short on the 72nd hole and settled for a share of second place on 281 total. India’s Anirban Lahiri did not get the win he wanted as he signed off with a 73 to share sixth place with Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee and American Jonathan Moore at the Thai showpiece. The 27-year-old, however, earned a well-deserved place at the 144th Open at St. Andrews this year as one of the top four players who are not otherwise exempted from the world’s oldest Major. Westwood took delight with his Thailand Golf Championship win as he had to overcome intense pressure to lift the prestigious title again. “When I won the Thailand Golf Championship in 2011, I had a pretty big lead. But this win is obviously very special as it was a very tight day out there and I didn’t get off to the best of starts and I had lots of work to do,” said Westwood. Starting the round two shots back of Fraser, Westwood seemed to have fallen out of the equation when he opened with two successive bogeys. But the Englishman showed his mettle with a stunning comeback where he fired four straight birdies starting from the par-four sixth hole. He continued his amazing birdie blitz by marking his card with more red numbers on holes 11, 14 and 15 to seal his second Thailand Golf Championship win.
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“My caddy, Billy, told me there were opportunities to pick some shots up in the middle of the round after I made those two bogeys. I did that and didn’t drop anymore shots and gave myself lots of chances,” said Westwood. “This was my last event of the year and it’s nice to finish with a win and go into Christmas and start the New Year with confidence. I know what I’ve got to work on and I’ll be doing that over the next six weeks before the season starts again,” added the Englishman. Fraser was left to rue another missed opportunity of a grandstand finish. The Australian started off promisingly with birdies on four, six and seven. He dropped a shot on nine but responded well with another two birdies on 10 and 11. However, a bogey-five on 12 followed by another costly bogey putt made under pressure on the closing 18 resigned Fraser to tied-second place. “I gave a good fight and I’m happy with how I’ve played considering how I just got back to playing
competitive golf recently,” said Fraser, who missed eight months of action due to a wrist injury. Lahiri also responded positively to a disappointing day by declaring his intentions to be back to challenge for top honours again. “I’m obviously very disappointed with how I played today. There were lot of positives out there for me and I was struggling on my game today.” “At least for my consolation I earned a spot at The Open next year. That would put some balm on my wounds. I’ve had a great year and I have a lot to look forward to,” said Lahiri.
Leading scores after round 4 of the Thailand Golf Championship being played at the par 72, 7488 Yards Amata Spring GcC course (am - denotes amateur): 280 Lee WESTWOOD (ENG) 70-71-72-67. 281 Martin KAYMER (GER) 71-72-70-68, Marcus FRASER (AUS) 69-72-70-70. 283 Tommy FLEETWOOD (ENG) 71-69-73-70. 284 Scott HEND (AUS) 70-74-71-69. 285 Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) 72-71-74-68, Jonathan MOORE (USA) 71-71-72-71, Anirban LAHIRI (IND) 71-73-68-73. 286 Sergio GARCIA (ESP) 71-75-71-69. 287 Kiradech APHIBARNRAT (THA) 76-72-71-68, Paul PETERSON (USA) 71-72-75-69, Terry PILKADARIS (AUS) 77-69-72-69. 288 Thanyakon KHRONGPHA (THA) 69-77-73-69, Bernd WIESBERGER (AUT) 76-74-68-70, Charlie WI (KOR) 74-72-71-71. 289 Kodai ICHIHARA (JPN) 78-68-72-71, Daisuke KATAOKA (JPN) 74-73-71-71. 290 Danny CHIA (MAS) 77-74-72-67, Berry HENSON (USA) 73-72-74-71, WANG Jeung-hun (KOR) 73-72-73-72, Unho PARK (AUS) 76-74-68-72.
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Rolls-Royce
Ghost seRies ii Rolls-Royce has perpetually become the ultimate symbol of success for leading entrepreneurs across the globe. Winning critical media and customer acclaim and driving the company to four consecutive historic sales records, Rolls-Royce Ghost has led a new, younger generation of highly successful men and women to Rolls-Royce ownership; a key pillar in the marque’s highly successful sustainable growth strategy. Ghost Series II proves a showcase for the most recent technological advances from the marque. Clad in a subtle re-design, Ghost Series II ensures the timeless yet modern quality that the marque’s customers cherish.
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“As a design statement, RollsRoyce Ghost Series II continues to transcend time,” comments Giles Taylor, Director of Design for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “This is ensured by the deft treatment of features such as the new headlights, the new wake channel on the bonnet and surfacing that lend the car a more dynamic, purposeful stance and hint at the cutting edge technology inside. I am very pleased with the overall sense of design harmony.” Ghost Series II presents significant recent technological updates in an exterior package that represents evolutionary changes to Ghost’s timeless aesthetic. • A contemporary re-imagining of Ghost’s front face; re-engineered and re-designed LED headlights are framed by day-time running lights. • Revised surface treatments including re-sculptured bumpers that present a wider, more dynamic stance. • A new bonnet design featuring tapered ‘wake channel’ emanating from the Spirit of Ecstasy that hints at Ghost Series II’s dynamism. • The waft line leans further forwards, giving further expression to Ghost’s dynamic driving experience. • New paint and wheel options giving customers greater scope for Bespoke personalization.
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interior design
• Re-designed front seats include electronically adjustable thigh supports and depth adjustment. Rear seats have been subtly re-angled to augment effortless communication with fellow passengers. • The clock fascia and instrument dials are enhanced with the addition of polished metal chaplets that evoke premium watch design. • Option of extending natural grain leather to the A and C pillars. • The scope for Bespoke customisation is extended with the introduction of two new, exquisitely crafted veneers: Paldao and Walnut Burr Crossband.
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technological and engineering enhancements
• Re-designed LED headlights incorporating the latest technologies. A whiter, brighter light augments driver safety whilst electronic reflectors move in the direction of travel in response to steering-wheel turns. New anti-glare technology deflects light when a car approaches in the other direction, giving Ghost Series II drivers the benefit of full-beam headlights at all times. • Suspension enhancements include reengineered front and rear struts, new steering gear and adjusted dampers that increase the car’s cornering ability when the Dynamic Driving Package is specified. • New hydraulic rear axle bearings enhance ride quality and rear stability whilst reducing vibrations and cabin intrusions. • All Ghost Series II motor cars feature Satellite Aided Transmission as standard – a technology that utilizes GPS and mapping data to ensure the car is always in the correct gear when negotiating turns, motorway exists and roundabouts. All in all, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös’s acclaim “Ghost Series II is an oasis of calm in a frenetic business world.” is unarguably an understatement.
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Collection ★ Bespoke
The emporium's new look Representing the epitome of style.
The Emporium Shopping Complex
has unveiled its new, luxurious look both interior and exterior. “Rêve de Noël,” a special house warming party to celebrate this special occasion, and to celebrate the festive season of Christmas and New Year 2015, was held at the Emporium Gallery, M Floor. Many special activities and launch of world-class brands plus “The Goldgeous Collection,” that features selected gifts from around the globe were part of the celebrations. Supaluck Umpujh, Vice Chairwoman of The Mall Group Company Limited and Chairwoman of The Emporium Group Company Limited said that The Emporium, launched 17 years ago is the first luxury mall in Thailand and has welcomed guests and visitors from around the world. Today, The Emporium opened its doors after interior and exterior renovations that enhanced the shopping complex’s luxurious setting while maintaining its warmth and charm. The company invested over 3,000 million baht on the renovation with the concept of New Visage, Metaphor and Utterance. The façade features a new, luxurious design, while the BTS connection has a more natural look to complement the façade. The interior has been completely renovated from merchandise to décor to create a new shopping experience that is the epitome of style. “The Emporium is the heart of The EM District – modern, world-class retail district consisting of The Emporium, EmQuartier and The EmSphere located in the heart of Sukhumvit surrounding Benjasiri Park. We plan to become a world-class retail and travel centre that will launch soon,” Supaluck said. Kriengsak Tantiphipop, CEO of The Emporium Group Company Limited added that worldclass labels that have joined the ultimate shopping experience include Louis Vuitton, the French luxury brand with many items available in its grandiose, 700-square-metre flagship store; Cartier, world-class watch and jewellery store in its flagship store; Chloé, the only concept store in Thailand; Loewe, luxury leather goods under the direction of Creative Director Irishman Jonathan William Anderson, with an exclusive collection available only at The Emporium; Salvatore Ferragamo, Italian brand with the latest design in a renovated store;
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Roger Vivier, premier launch in Thailand with premium-quality shoes from Paris sought after by many for its unique designs; Bvlgari, with a concept store featuring an exclusive bridal collection; TWG Tea Salon & Boutique, chic tea salon popular in Thailand and abroad, with a special Christmas collection. Achara Umpujh, Senior Vice Chairwoman of The Emporium Group Company Limited said that every inch of the shopping complex underwent renovation with the aim of the complex becoming Asia’s shopping haven among fashionistas. The team in charge of the renovation has experience designing world-class shopping centres including Harrods, Selfridges and Lane Crawford. The focus is on eye-catching décor, merchandise, display, ambiance, and a smooth blend between the department stores and retail outlets. Men and women’s fashion merchandise was carefully selected to ensure that trendy, popular merchandise is presented. There is an atelier floor with luxurious runway fashion and haute couture items to delight high-end customers. The ultimate style is available on this floor and consists of more than 70 brands, in addition to the 40 brands that are exclusive to The Emporium. There are different fashion zones – Contemp Salon under the Style Edition concept featuring more than 20 currently popular brands including House of Holland, BACK, Jacquemus, EACH x OTHER, Paul & Joe Sister, See by Chloé and Sonia by Sonia Rykiel. Other zones include the Creative Shoes & Bags, Jewelry & Accessories Monobrands, Lux Salon, and Artistic Space. Also, the Contemp Men multilabel designer store under “The New Definition of Men’s Style” features leading brands and hot items from around the world in men’s style.
Collection ★ Time
Hermès médor seCreT TIme Design is sometimes about reinventing fine objects and the Médor watch is a perfect example of this principle.
First created in 1993, the Médor
watch originated from one of the first objects produced by Hermès alongside the harness: the dog collar. For while a dog is a man’s best friend, it has also always – just like horses – been a source of inspiration for the venerable House. Initially intended for hunting parties, dog collars were adapted to serve as belts during the 1930s. From there it was but a short step from the waists of elegant women to their wrists, which Médor thus adorned in the form of a bracelet. Since one creative idea often leads to another, the leather strap with its iconic “Clous de Paris” pyramid-shaped studs was then transformed into a ‘secret’ watch. The ingenious and slightly mischievous Médor watch has fun with the passing of time by alternately concealing it under a domed cover or discreetly revealing it. This inspired creation comes in several colourful versions. Available in two sizes and graced with gold or steel pyramid studs, the Médor watch may be gemset along its edges or entirely paved with diamonds, further underscoring the precious nature of this jealously safeguarded time. Golf Vacations
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2015, the Year of the Skeleton Roger Dubuis takes its pioneering skeleton aesthetic to the next level with exciting new Excalibur Spider models. Having pioneered and perfected the art of crafting contemporary skeleton calibres, Manufacture Roger Dubuis now steps things up yet another notch for 2015 by introducing its aptly named Excalibur Spider concept. Leveraging the expertise acquired over the years through its avant-garde movements revealing its own unique vision of this principle, Roger Dubuis has decided to apply the same innovative and creative powers to extending a skeletonised approach beyond the movement. Two of the stellar highlights from the new Excalibur Spider collection are the fiery red Excalibur Spider Skeleton Double Flying Tourbillon and the World Premiere Excalibur Spider Skeleton Flying Tourbillon with gemset rubber bezel. Each in its own way illustrates Manufacture Roger Dubuis’ stature as the specialist in architectural and technical mechanics. Both also display a determination to push the skeleton-work theme to its aesthetic and technical limits – and beyond! The guiding force behind the Roger Dubuis launches in 2015, skeleton-work, relects a recurrent theme in the natural world evidenced in countless ways, not least of which are the gossamer threads of a spider’s web, which itself echoes the cosmic beauty of star-studded constellations. In turn relected in a wealth of human endeavours such as bridges, cathedrals, ornamental friezes, maps, labyrinths and even tattoos, skeleton-work is all about fascinating geometrical 112
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RD01SQ: the iconic RogeR DubuiS Skeleton calibRe
motifs often carrying powerful metaphorical connotations. In the realm of watchmaking, skeletonwork expresses a blend of technical reinement and artistry that involves building movements around bare essentials formed by paring functional components down to an absolute minimum. In its own inimitable way, Roger Dubuis has given a decidedly unconventional twist to this principle, raising it to the rank of a contemporary art form dedicated to promoting transparency, enhancing visibility and creating fascinating sculptural effects.
rogEr dubuiS: thE pionEEr in thE FiEld oF 100% SkElEtoniSEd timEpiEcES.
Visual appeal meets technical sophistication To introduce its tentacular new Spider concept, the Manufacture has decided to capitalise on the emblematic nature of the Excalibur collection. The calibres themselves feature the instantly recognisable star shape that has become the signature of Roger Dubuis’ unique technical skeleton movements. Moreover, the tips of the star point to the hour-markers, once again highlighting an exceptional ability to combine original and visually appealing design effects with clarity, readability and functionality. Just as the spider spins its web beyond the initial core pattern to span ever-wider spaces, these new Excalibur Spider models extend the skeleton-work theme to the case, inner bezel ring, and even the Dauphine hands. And just as it pioneered contemporary skeleton movements and in particular the Double Flying Tourbillon Skeleton, Roger Dubuis is now pioneering the field of 100% skeletonised timepieces. This results in a fresh and novel interpretation of the Manufacture’s characteristic multi-layer approach to watchmaking and the distinctive 3D impact is particularly apparent. Lending a sporty, outdoor touch to these models, and thereby bringing something entirely new to the Excalibur collection, rubbermoulded pushers provide a firm and smooth grip, while rubber straps in a variety of colours secured by folding clasps guarantee a firm and comfortable fit on the wrist. The ring or rings surrounding the tourbillon or double tourbillon as well as the small seconds also feature a speedometer-type design that both accentuates their sporting nature and ensures they are seamlessly integrated into the skeleton and avoid any design overload. Moreover, to maximise readability by night and day, the tips of the hands and the applied screws on the inner bezel ring are enhanced with Superluminova.
Excalibur Spider Skeleton Double Flying Tourbillon As the only manufacture to offer a skeleton double lying tourbillon creation, Manufacture Roger Dubuis is ideally equipped to take things to the next level by opting to skeletonise all key aspects of this iconic model and thus endow it with its brandnew ‘Spider’ nature. Creating powerful contrasts with the 47 mm titanium and black DLC-titanium case, a variety of fiery red aluminium elements on the inner bezel ring, crown and case band highlight the strong, sporty impact that is further reinforced by a variety of colour strap options. Part spider, part star, the standout RD01SQ movement is set off to stunning advantage within this multi-level construction composed of skilfully superimposed layers and issued in a 188-piece limited edition.
Excalibur SpidEr SkElEton doublE Flying tourbillon
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excalibuR SpiDeR Skeleton Flying touRbillon with gem-Set RubbeR bezel
World Premiere Excalibur Spider Skeleton Flying Tourbillon with gem-set rubber bezel Technical, sporty rubber and ‘forever’ precious diamonds: while these two materials might justifiably be considered worlds apart in some respects, they had occasionally been used conjointly on timepieces, such as with a rubber bezel framing a diamond-set dial or other variations. However, the sheer physical dificulties implied in actually setting the gems on an elastic material such as rubber meant that this had never yet been successfully attempted – until now with this astonishing model that thrives on uniting polar opposites. The black-treated 503SQ movement, the DLC-coated titanium case and inner bezel ring provide a perfect total-black backdrop on which to ‘paint’ the rubber bezel with a stunning lineup of 60 baguette-cut diamonds totalling 2 carats. On this exclusive 88-piece limited edition, the precious stones are literally set into the rubber moulding over the metal bezel, calling for perfect mastery of the exact thickness and a technique based on plastic deformation. Two years of research were devoted to this astonishing technical feat and a “Stones in the sky” patent has been duly registered to protect this ground-breaking development.
Reinventing the legendary Roger Dubuis skeleton aesthetic For the SIHH 2015, Manufacture Roger Dubuis is to stage another scenographic surprise designed to stun and intrigue visitors to the exclusive annual watch show. Inspired by an eclectic range of sources including fashion, architecture, painting, sculpture and filmmaking, the Roger Dubuis booth will embody a dreamlike fantasy world powerfully evoking the Manufacture’s primary theme of the year: skeleton-work and its multiple interpretations in nature, art and watchmaking. An acknowledged pioneer in the field of contemporary skeleton calibres, notably with its groundbreaking signature Double Tourbillon Skeleton calibre, the Manufacture Roger Dubuis invites visitors to the SIHH 2015 to step into its incredible universe of architectural and technical mechanics. Transposing the ultra-miniaturised scale of its iconic skeleton movement into a monumental structure embodying the quintessence of the Maison is exactly the kind of challenge that its Creative Director Alvaro Maggini thrives on. Ask him how he would best describe the new booth, and this incorrigible enthusiast naturally evokes a variety of vivid metaphors, among which the predominant ones are resolutely celestial. “People entering the Roger Dubuis world at the SIHH 2015 will feel as if they are being drawn into a mesmerising constellation where they will be given a unique opportunity to grasp the mysteries of the Roger Dubuis ‘stars’: its skeleton calibres. They will experience a sense of being allowed to glimpse exceptional secrets with an undeniably cosmic dimension as they witness the opening and closing of an ‘eye’ that at once protects the Manufacture while paradoxically revealing its mechanical enigmas…”
Showcasing unique expertise By thus applying its pioneering know-how in the field of contemporary skeleton calibres to the exterior of its timepieces, Manufacture Roger Dubuis has found an ideal showcase for the superlative quality implied by its 100% Poinçon de Genève certified production. Constantly pushing boundaries by combining aesthetic and technical innovations, the specialist of architectural and technical mechanics spins a web of unparalleled strength and sophistication with its new Excalibur Spider species. once upon a time in the conStellation oF hoRologia…
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About RogeR Dubuis Roger Dubuis has been at the forefront of contemporary Haute Horlogerie since 1995. Its audacious creations, firmly anchored in the 21st century, bear the mark of all the savoir-faire and expertise of the finest watchmaking mechanisms combined with powerful and daring designs. Boldness and extravagance are the brand’s signatures, and determination its engine. Rich in conceptual creativity and mechanical detail, its collections are inspired by four different worlds - the Incredible Player, the Incredible Warrior, the Incredible Venturer, the Incredible Diva – naturally gravitating around the fifth element represented by the “Incredible Mechanics”. The Roger Dubuis collections La Monégasque, Excalibur, Pulsion Velvet, and Hommage are distributed worldwide through an exclusive sales network and boutiques. The quest for excellence, the long search for the right gesture, the development of unique skills are all constants of the Genevabased Swiss Maison. The fully integrated Manufacture Roger Dubuis is the only watchmaker in the world to have all of its precious timepieces embossed with the Poinçon de Genève, a guarantee of finest craftsmanship.
alvaRo maggini, cReative DiRectoR oF RogeR DubuiS
Reaching for the horological stars This year, embracing the incredible world of Roger Dubuis could also be compared to entering an enchanted, legendary Arthurian forest with spreading branches subtly evoking the world of the Excalibur line which will be firmly in the spotlight in 2015; about discovering an extraordinary tentacular creature as if released from its cage; a UFO that has alighted on the watchmaking planet with a mission to draw the gaze upwards and outwards across the vast expanses of horological space…
Everything about this unique stage-setting is an invitation to revel in the poetry of the senses. The play on shapes and colours, on the materials with a variety of finishes and textures, both reflects and transcends the beauty of mechanical complexity. Roger Dubuis invites all those wishing to discover this concept to attend the official unveiling of its 2015 SIHH booth on the opening day of the SIHH, January 19th, 2015 at 9.30 a.m.
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RADIOMIR 1940
TOURBILLON GMT ORO ROSSO – 48mm Tourbillon regulator, second time zone and a power reserve of six days: officine panerai presents an exclusive special edition in red gold for enthusiasts who are looking for a high level of technical content combined with the pure design and historic fascination of the radiomir 1940 case.
Officine Panerai is the interpreter par
excellence of an extraordinary union: that of Italian design and Swiss watchmaking expertise. The creativity, elegance and functionality of the Italian design find an exceptional consummation in the craftsmanship and skill of Swiss watchmaking in the Panerai manufacture at Neuchâtel, giving life to extraordinary, unique objects such as the Radiomir 1940 Tourbillon GMT Oro Rosso – 48mm, an exclusive Special Edition of just thirty units in red gold, destined for devotees of luxury sports watchmaking. The Tourbillon regulator is one of the most sophisticated complications of high quality watchmaking, invented almost two centuries ago to eliminate changes of rate in pocket watches caused by the effect of gravity. In a traditional Tourbillon the balance-escapement assembly rotates continuously on its own axis to compensate for these errors of rate. In the Panerai P.2005 calibre, on the other hand, the cage which contains the balance and escapement rotates on an axis which is perpendicular to that of the balance instead of parallel to it, and a rotation is completed in thirty seconds, that is, at twice the speed of the traditional one. Thanks to these two simple but revolutionary innovations,
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the Panerai Tourbillon compensates better for inaccuracies, thus ensuring that the watch runs more evenly. Its fascinating rotation can be admired through the sapphire window set in the back and it is also indicated on the dial by a small indicator rotating within the small seconds dial. As well as the Tourbillon regulator, the P.2005 calibre of the new Radiomir 1940 also has the GMT 24H function, which indicates the time in a second time zone by a special central hand, with am/pm indication on the auxiliary dial at three o’clock. The local time can be quickly adjusted by the system which enables the hour hand to be moved in jumps of one hour at a time, without interfering with the minute hand or the running of the watch. With three spring barrels connected in series, the power reserve of this hand-wound movement is a good six days, and the power reserve remaining is indicated on the back. The Radiomir 1940 case with a diameter of 48 mm is made entirely of 5Npt red gold, a special alloy with a high percentage of copper which gives the gold a warm, elegant tone, and a percentage of platinum which helps to prevent oxidation. The lugs are milled from the block of the case and the wide polished bezel frames a sapphire glass crystal which protects the brown dial with satiné soleil finish; its design is of exemplary simplicity in spite of the richness of the indications. The legibility and clarity of the dial are also enhanced by its sandwich structure: the Super-LumiNova® which makes it visible at night is applied between two discs and its luminescence emerges through holes in the upper one corresponding to the hour markers. The Radiomir 1940 Tourbillon GMT Oro Rosso – 48mm (PAM00558) is water-resistant to five bar (around fifty metres). It is supplied with a brown alligator strap, closed by an adjustable red gold buckle, personalized Panerai.
Moments 31 October 2014
↓ GREY GOOSE THE EXCLUSIVE PARTY Galactic Party with Futuristic Theme.
Grey Goose Galactic Party: Kasinsuk Maklamthong,
Brand Manager of Grey Goose, the world's super-premium vodka held the most glamorous and luxurious party in the concept of "Galactic Party". The futuristic bash promises to be studded with celebrities and stellar sounds by guest EDM duo Vinai from Italy, the brothers responsible for global hits like "Hands Up", "Bullet", "Reset" and "Bounce Generation" at Onyx RCA. Special guests of the night included Rasavadi Kuonsongtham, Nutaporn Donavanik, Pratchavan Sunanvatananont, Sorawoot Yiemphat, Khunpol Issara and Justin Techapaibul.
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Moments 15 November 2014
↓ MARRIOT THAILAnd OPEn 2014 Celebrating its third Thailand Chapter of the Marriott Thailand Open 2014.
The event is a collaboration of Marriott
Thailand when brought together as an entity, created an event called “Marriott Thailand Open 2014.” Headed by Don Cleary, COO, Asia Pacific, Marriott International, the third Thailand chapter of the Marriott Thailand Open was held at Lotus Valley, Chachoengsao, on November 15, 2014. The event was teed off at noon under warm sunlight. Divided into teams with four members, players participated in a one day stroke play event. The champions got trophies and medals, including, Individual Lady Winner, Individual Winner, Team Winner, Third Place, Team Runner Up, and many more. The day ended with a presentation ceremony where the winners were announced. The Team Winner was Mr. Sirirat Singpru, Mr. Samart Yanarak, Mr. Kaname Sakurai, and Mr. Takashi Kakuda, who won the grand prize of three nights stay at Renaissance Harbour View Hong Kong. The tournament has received a huge response and is expected to have sequels in the years to come.
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Moments 23 December 2014
↓ KRUnG KAVEE GOLf COURSE Staged as the venue for golf competitions of the 39th Annual Demonstration Schools Sports Event.
Arinth Vienravee,
Krung Kavee Golf Course Managing Director provided the golf course facilities for golf competitions of the 39th Annual Demonstration Schools Sports Event. On December 23, 2014 Assistant Professor Chaisak Changjai, Chulalongkorn University Demonstration Secondary School Director, presided over the awardgiving ceremony to give trophies and prizes to the winners and first runners-up in all the categories. Annual Demonstration Schools Sports Event is a fun sports activity, with the main purpose to create ties and unity among students in all of the 21 Demonstration Schools in Thailand. There are over 16 kinds of sports competitions. This year’s event was hosted by Chulalongkorn University during December 2127, 2014, marking the 39th annual activity.
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Moments 30 October 3 November 2014
↓ Bangkok Bank goLF TRIP The second exclusive trip.
Choke Na Ranong,
Executive Vice President, Credit Card Division, together with a group of lucky golfers (randomly selected spenders through Bangkok Bank credit cards in golf category) enjoyed their trip in Shanghai, China. They took pleasure in fun and friendly golf games at Sun Island International Golf Club surrounded by the nice cool breeze and the enchanting beauty of the course. After the game, they had a privileged opportunity to visit Bangkok Bank, Shanghai Branch and were warmly and joyously welcomed by Mr. Chartsiri Sophonpanich, President of Bangkok Bank. Another highlight included having a chance to enjoy the final match of BMW Masters 2014 European Tour at Lake Malaren Golf Club. It was a distinguished international tournament featuring many worldclass professional golfers including Thongchai Jaidee from Thailand. This was a truly memorable and special trip for Bangkok Bank customers.
Stay tuned for details of another exclusive trip next year. For more information and updates of the Bangkok Bank credit cards privileges, kindly visit www.bangkokbank.com/creditcard 120
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09/02/58
NG
GOLF VACATIONS THAILAND EDITION VOL.8 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2015 KRUNG KAVEE GOLF COURSE
Thailand Edition vol. 8
Choice Resorts
The Els Club, Datai The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula
KRUNG KAVEE Paradise on Green Space
08
7.2 GV008008CN TRIM_247X300 06-02-58
The 19th
The Ford Plantation, Georgia Mystical Bhutan
Special Story
TOP 10 Destinations on the Rise
MAGAZINE OF THE GM GROUP GOLF VACATIONS THAILAND VOL.8 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2015 / 180 BAHT
15
01
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The Last Putt
Jeremy Paulson
From Greens to academics. - P h oto s by Da m r o n g r i t s at h i t Da m r o n g t h a m
Jeremy Paulson, founder of JP International Golf
is in charge of selecting talented Thai junior golfers that would like to receive golf scholarship to further their academic studies in the United States. Over the last 3 years, Jeremy has worked with Thai juniors matching them with universities and colleges across the United States with a total of 1.2 million US dollars in scholarships (39,600,000) baht. In addition to working with Thai juniors, Jeremy works with Asian and European Tour players on all aspects of golf. The goal of JP International Golf is to give the opportunity for Thai juniors who would like to further their golf and academics in the United States. Working closely with coaches from the United States, JP International Golf matches the juniors with universities where they can excel in both golf and academics. “Thailand has a very talented pool of junior golfers. The Thai juniors have a strong work ethic that has translated into success in not only on the golf course but in the classroom as well.”
using Golf as a Pathway for education
August is a busy time for Jeremy traveling across the United States sending his students to universities. The culmination of all the work that has landed the juniors with a golf scholarship to study in the United States. “Each Fall is an exciting time for me to send the juniors to college. To see the juniors rewarded for all the hard work both in the classroom and on the golf course is very fulfilling. Knowing that you’ve played a critical role in furthering the junior’s education with a golf scholarship is very rewarding”. As the cost of attending university in the US can be very expensive between $100,000 to $200,000 US dollars golf scholarships have made studying in the US affordable. Being a student/athlete in a foreign country can be very intimidating, but Jeremy helps make the transition to college life in the US as smooth as possible. “I work with the juniors to make sure they feel comfortable with the university, golf course and just being in a new country. At first the juniors are a bit intimidated, but within the first week or two they really start to excel.” Golf is a Game that never stops Teaching
Having played professionally for the last 15 years, Jeremy still enjoys playing golf. “Golf is a wonderful game that you never stop learning. Whether I’m playing in a tournament or just having a fun round of golf with my friends, golf seems to always teach me something. I enjoy the challenge of golf and the many different ways people play the game. Playing golf for over 29 years, Jeremy has had the privilege to travel around the world competing in tournaments. “I’ve been fortunate to use golf as an avenue to travel to different countries and learn about various cultures. Playing professionally, I’ve developed many close friendships with golfers around the world. Golf is the bridge that brings everyone together.” Golf has given Jeremy the opportunity to meet and compete against some of the best players such as Tiger Woods, Luke Donald, and Matt Kuchar. “Playing against the best players in the world, golf teaches us how to not only hit a golf ball but how to manage life. Many of the golfers I’ve met are very successful businessmen who love playing golf for the life lessons it teaches us. These lessons we can apply to our everyday life.” 122
Golf Vacations
Jan - fEB 2015
MUCH MORE THAN GOLF COURSE
Rancho Charnvee Resort & Country Club
18 holes of Charmpionship Golf Course and European Country lifestyle for your great memorial Pakchong Nakornratchsrima Thailand : www.ranchocharnvee.com : Tel. 044-756-210-3