Gv#016

Thailand Edition vol. 16

Legends Bernard Hunt The Interview Series Tom Watson My Top Ten Bernhard Langer

The 19th Singapore’s First National Champion Journey in Collegiate Golf Destination Focus A Little Town called Bogor

A Scottish golfing adventure in the West Coast

Ayrshire & ArrAn

magazine of the gm group golf vacations thailand vol.16 MAY-JUNE 2016 180 baht

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09 CaRTOgOlf Golf Driving Holidays

ON THE COVER

10 pOsTCaRD The Hills Golf Course, Queenstown, New Zealand 12 JOuRNal - Queen's Cup Bangkok Airways-SAT Samui - Audemars Piguet Le Brassus - AGTC 2016 - Is golf in a bit of a hole?

- Mountain Creek Golf Course

GOLF VACATIONS THAILAND VOLUME 16 MAy-jUNE 2016 AyrSHIrE & ArrAN, SCOTLAND

18 lEgENDs BErNArD HUNT Back in the dark days when the American Ryder Cup beast regularly slayed the Brits, one man always stood up to be counted...

22 THE iNTERViEw sERiEs TOM wATSON Wedged between the triumvirate of Nicklaus, Palmer and Player, and then the new fangled Tiger era is a hero whose golfing lights are finally going out.

BErNArD HUNT THE pGA OF SwEDEN NATIONAL

26 COVER sTORy AyrSHIrE & ArrAN An ancient world of mystical courses and spectacular views awaits those who visit Scotland’s west coast for this year’s Open Championship.

34 my TOp TEN BErNHArD LANGEr David J Whyte plunders the 2016 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida in search of his perfect mixed bag.

40 THE 19TH SINGApOrE'S FIrST NATIONAL CHAMpION Ahead of the 50th edition of the SMBC Singapore Open, we tracked down and caught up with Frank Phillips, the inaugural winner of the very first Open back in 1961. jOUrNEy IN COLLEGIATE GOLF How a national player survives four years in the top public university in America and remains competitive in both golf and life.

50 DEsTiNaTiON fOCus A LITTLE TOwN CALLED BOGOr From rolling grasslands to delicious indigenous cuisine, golf in Indonesia has it all.

56 CHOiCE REsORTs MIAMI DOrAL TrUMp NATIONAL Famed for its Blue course, also dubbed, ‘The Monster’, Doral is firmly set as Miami’s ultimate golfing destination.

IMpErIAL KLUB GOLF A stirring mix of fine service and stimulating golf.

A LITTLE TOwN CALLED BOGOr

BErNHArD LANGEr'S TOp TEN jOUrNEy IN COLLEGIATE GOLF

66 REsORT gOlf aCaDEmy MACDONALD SpEy VALLEy GOLF & COUNTry CLUB A magnificentresort and Championship golf course at the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

70 sTylE VaCaTiON THE CALL OF THE wILD A modern photographic rendition of a Jack London classic.

88 HOTEl 88 FOOD LONG BAr AT rAFFLES Singapore's steakhouse refreshes its menu in 2016.

CELEBrATE TANABATA Star Festival at Yamazato.

ONE MOrE AT UNO MAS Fine Spanish restaurant in Bangkok.

91 rESOrT THE AMArI SHOrELINE BEACH CLUB New rendezvous spot in Hua Hin. rOyAL pLAZA ON SCOTTS Singapore's legendary hotel.

78 COllECTiON 78 FASHION Sirivannavari Spring/Summer 2016 Collection 80 DrINK 93 mOmENTs Los Vascos: A pioneering adventure - Rolex's testimonee Jordan Spieth 81 TECH - KBank Enjoy Your Swing Vertu: Signature Touch for Bentley - Cortina Watch unveils Bulgari's 2016 collection 82 TIME - Banyan Mercedes Benz Road Cruise 2016 DIAMOND FUry Audemars Piguet's Diamond Fury - The Spirit 98 lasT puTT of Rebellion The Master Architect with a passion for golf.

IwC IWC Schaffhausen celebrates its tenth special edition with Laureus SIrIVANNAVArI 84 BESpOKE SprING/SUMMEr UNOrTHODOX BEAUTy 2016 COLLECTION Leica unveils the world’s first full matte brass finish M Series for leading luxury specialist watch retailer The Hour Glass.

MECHANICAL MArVEL Luxury Swiss watchmaker Richard Mille unveils its first ever mechanical fountain pen at SIHH 2016.

86 STyLE Fj FrEESTyLE The revolutionary shoe from FootJoy. THE AMArI TUMI ALpHA 2 CArT BAG SHOrELINE Finally, a golf bag made for looks BEACH CLUB and hardiness.

GM MULTIMEDIA GrOUp 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 Executive Vice president : New Media PESILP Pongvarapa Editor-in-Chief : SuEBWONG Kaewthipharat Managing Editor : GEORGE Somapa Executive Art Director : PRATEEP Putchimtuck photographer : DAMRONGRIT Sathitdamrongtham Computer Artist : PRASIT Anakananthpun Advertising/Marketing Manager : KONGWARONG Somsa Advertising/Marketing Staff : SANTIPAT Suksinchai PEMISA Khuangsirikul proofreader : SIRAYA Pongvarapa production Manager : RATANA Khow General Manager : PANuWAT Pongvarapa Finance Manager : WIMONLAK Asaiphanit Accounting Manager : NICHAPA Buparanond Color Separation : Kanoksilp (Thailand) Tel. +662 215 1588 printing : O.S. Printing House Co., Ltd. Tel. +662 434 6850

THE CALL OF THE wILD TUMI ALpHA 2 CArT BAG

THE MASTEr ArCHITECT wITH A pASSION FOr GOLF

Editor’s Page Power of May' The beginning of May in Thailand is still enduring the sweltering heat with temperatures soaring above 40 C on some days. An air conditioner seems like the best solution for the moment. Unfortunately, it's impossible to keep the whole golf course air-conditioned for those golfers who detest UV rays and excessive sweating.

Despite the heat, there have been quite a few good news for Thais to be happy about, especially sports-related ones. The badminton star, “Nong May” Ratchanok Intanon became the world's no.1 player after winning three titles in a row. Ariya Jutanugarn became the first Thai winner in LPGA Tour history after winning the 2016 Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic.

Let's not forget about Leicester City's incredible rise to the top of the Premier League race. The Foxes, under the ownership of Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha of King Power, became champion for the first time in their 132-year history.

Their victory sparked wild celebrations from Leicester to Thailand and beyond.

Perhaps, instead of 'May Day', 'Power of May' is actually more fitting to describe this month.

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 Group 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

Suebwong Kaewthipharat editor-in-chief

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contributors robin barwicK Peter robinson

Darryl wee

Kate burton When he’s not travelling writing about golf, Peter is the editor of an ice hockey magazine, which is virtually a perfect work combination for any Canadian male.

He’s fortunate but not lucky because with any luck his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs would’ve won the Stanley Cup during his lifetime, a fruitless quest he wrote about in Hope and Heartbreak in Toronto: Life as a Maple Leafs Fan (Dundurn, 2012).

After a successful career as an England International golfer, Kate switched her attention to the world of broadcasting and is now a golf commentator on the LPGA Tour.

Based in Singapore with her husband and two children, she travels with the LPGA, Asian and Men’s European Tours. Despite all of the above (or perhaps because of it), her recent golf handicap has shown no visual signs of any improvement for some considerable time.

Editor of ‘Arnold Palmer’s Guide to the Majors’ and contributing editor of Arnold Palmer’s Kingdom magazine, Robin is an Englishman based in Kent and a regular contributor to other leading European titles including Golf Monthly in the UK, Golf & Turismo in Italy as well as Golf Vacations.

This issue, he talks to Bernhard Langer and asks the former US Masters Champion what his top ten courses are.

DaviD J. whyte

It’s back to the PGA Show in Orlando for David as he shows us the ins and outs of the biggest golf show in the world. While at it, the single-handicapped Scotsman picks out a mixed bag of his favourite gear from this year’s collection. Would you agree with him?

08 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

Jo ee KoK

Former national player and educated in the University of California at Berkeley, where she received her scholarship in their vaulted golf program, Jo Ee is now back with Added Sports, a start-up keen on junior sports development.

This issue is the first of a series of six where she discusses the process of getting that much desired scholarship.

The Scotty Cameron Museum club member and avid traveller discovers a gem of a golf club just outside the city limits of Jakarta, Indonesia. His journey takes us to a public course with magnificent landscaping, including some very oddly shaped bunkering as well as beautifully sculpted fairways and greens.

Certainly one of, if not the finest of its ilk in the region.

cartogolf 5 1

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Golf DrivinG HoliDays

The best journeys to the most exhilarating golf in the world.

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On a flat alluvial plain of the Mae Kok River between the Daen Lao Range in the north and the Phi Pan Nam Range in the south lies the northernmost main city of Thailand. Into one of these valleys is set the Robert Trent Jones Jnr. designed Santiburi course that winds beneath a canopy of magnificent shade trees, across crystal clear lakes and streams, reflecting turquoise skies and pearl white clouds above, and the lush green foothills and mountains of Chiang Rai in the distance.

Nirvana. www.santiburi.com/ chiangrai

There are few drives more scenic than the Great Ocean Road and on this wonderful stretch lies a resort course that few have heard of outside of Victoria. The Sands in Torquay, designed by local hero Stuart Appleby, is a championship tract set near Fisherman’s Beach and the Red Bluff Cliffs in the Half Moon Bay coastal area. Built with wood, glass and stone façade, the resort is modern and chic with elegant restaurant and country club facilities, making it one of the most surprising stops along this great road. www.thesandstorquay.com

Santiburi Country Club, Chiang rai, thailand

the SandS in torquay, ViCtoria, auStralia

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la Manga Club, MurCia, Spain

Driving along the Spanish south coast consists of taking in wonderful sights and enjoying the Mediterranean breezes, ofcourse enjoying tapas and sangria, and finally, making a stop at La Manga Club. The area, La Manga del Mar Menor (meaning “The Sandbar of the Minor Sea”), is a seaside spit in the Region of Murcia, Spain. A fully inclusive resort and country club, their three 18-hole courses designed by Robert Dean Putman, Arnold Palmer and Dave Thomas makes up a fantastic assortment of challenges, plus a very special 18-hole pitchand-putt course designed by the late Severiano Ballesteros makes this stopover one that will threaten to end your road trip. www.lamangaclub.com

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hornbill golf & Jungle Club, borneo highlandS, MalaySia

The road to millions year old rainforest is paved with clean air and ancient trees. Described as Asia’s best kept secret, Borneo Highlands Resort in East Malaysia is nestled within this virgin landscape 1,000m above sea level on the Sarawak-Kalimantan border. www.borneohighlands. com.my

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WinderMere golf Club, lake diStriCt, uk

There is nothing as charming as visiting the Lake District and as glorious a setting as you’ll find anywhere with views across Windermere to the Lakeland Fells, this fabulous golf club augurs all. A fabled journey that ends at a destination often referred to as “Mini Gleneagles”, Windermere is a course that is not long but a joy to play and a must for anyone visiting the area. www.windermeregolfclub. co.uk

Postcard The Hills Golf Course, Queenstown, New Zealand

Journal ★ Golf

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Queen s Cup Bangkok airways

SAT Samui Golf Tournament 2016 – Asian Tour June 16-19, 2016 at Santiburi Samui Country Club, Samui, Thailand In order to celebrate Her Majesty Queen

Sirikit’s birthday and to promote the professional game of golf among both amateur and professional golfers in Thailand, the golf tournament offers an international level of competition where players can play alongside and test their mettle against the Asia-Pacific’s best golfers.

Due to Bangkok Airways’ success in organizing Bangkok Airways Open – Asian Tour since 2004, The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) decided to cooperate with Bangkok Airways to organize Queen’s Cup Samui Golf Tournament- Asian Tour for the first time in August 2009.

Continuing from the success since 2004, Queen’s Cup Bangkok Airways – SAT Samui Golf Tournament – Asian Tour makes its return this year on June 16-19, 2016 at the Santiburi Samui Country Club.

The total prize is valued at $300,000 USD. This year Queen’s Cup Bangkok Airways – SAT Samui Golf Tournament attracts some of the best golf professionals from all over the Asia-Pacific region.

Along with many up-and-coming young stars, the Asian Tour is one of the most highly competitive golf tours in the region. During the past years, Queen’s Cup Bangkok Airways – SAT Samui Golf Tournament roster included many wellknown professionals such as Thaworn Wiratchant, Chapchai Nirat, Prayad Marksaeng, Chawalit Plaphol, Prom Meesawat, Chinarat Phadungsil, Lu Wen Teh (TWN), Lin Wen Tang (TWN), Lee Sung (KOR), Gaurav Ghai (IND) and Juvic Pagunsan (PHI).

Koh Samui’s Santiburi Samui Country Club is the venue for Queen’s Cup Samui Golf Tournament – Asian Tour. The golf course is situated on a hillside whilst being surrounded by a plethora of coconut plantations. The magnificent view of the ocean, beaches, and neighboring islands provide the perfect ‘paradise’ ambience.

TifEagle greens, seashore paspalam for tee-offs, and long-winding fairways that are carefully maintained to the highest degree in accordance to international standards make Santiburi Samui Country Club a “must play” golf course. www.bangkokair.com/eng www.santiburi.com

Journal ★ society

auDeMars pigueT Le Brassus Audemars Piguet celebrates the grand re-opening of flagship boutique at Liat Towers, Singapore.

April 26, 2016 – To honour its new “Home Away from Home” Audemars Piguet hosted a surprise cocktail party on the rooftop-carpark of Liat Towers, transformed for the occasion to bring the Le Brassus experience to Singapore. The limited edition Royal Oak Offshore Diver Chronograph was also presented at the party. Exclusively available in Audemars Piguet boutiques, the collection features funky watch colors such as deep blue, tangerine orange and bright yellow.

The event was attended by Chief Executive Officer of Audemars Piguet – Mr. Francois-Henry Bennahmias, Member of the Board of Directors – Mr. Oliviero Bottinelli, and Southeast Asia General Manager – Mr. Antonio Seward.

Located along Orchard Road, the retail and entertainment boulevard in Singapore, the 196 sqm space is the only Audemars Piguet boutique featuring a three-storey façade. It showcases an original Audemars Piguet concept design that captures over 140-years of the brand’s core values: origins, artistry and extraordinary relationship.

ABOUT THE NEW RETAIL CONCEPT The new retail concept allows for an enhanced experience the Vallee de Joux.

Created with the valley’s atmosphere and base materials in mind, customers are invited to discover the brand’s heritage, craftsmanship and watchmaking expertise.

At a height of more than 10 metres, the three-storey façade along Orchard Road is an iconic structure that cannot be missed. Inspired by trees of the forests

in Le Brassus, silhouettes are reflected in angular shapes and forms, elongated and pieced together to realize the façade of repeated lamellas. The bronze-brushed finishing echoes elements inside of the boutique, creating harmony between the exterior and interior environment.

The new retail concept hinges on tree important attributes: ORIGINS Base material, such as the use of stone and oak, bring a reminder of Audemars Piguet’s origins. The magnificent chandelier symbolizes the clouds and fog which hover very often above Vallee de Joux, while the lights are inspired by rain drops.

ARTISTRY The watchmaker’s bench serves as a central working space for the technical advisor, as he shares insights into the world of fine watchmaking. Statement pieces around the boutique showcase the Manufacture’s commitment and partnership with the arts.

EXCLUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS A guiding element leading into the shop, the welcome bar warmly invites visitors into the boutique, while the extra large screen draws clients into the world of Vallee de Joux.

Journal ★ Golf

agTC

April 24-27, 2016 Chiang Mai, Thailand Golf travel to Thailand’s northern city of Chiang Mai and the surrounding provinces is predicted to rocket by 25% over the next two years – as a direct result of hosting the 5th Annual “Asia Golf Tourism Convention” (AGTC).

The city welcomed the largest-ever delegation of golf tourism agents for the annual Asia convention, which is organized by IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators) that has become a key golf-networking event for golf tourism to Thailand.

With nearly 650 delegates from nearly 40 countries, including more than 200 tour operator buyers from over 150 companies and 265 seller agents from 155 golf resorts, golf clubs, hotels, inbound operators and tourist boards throughout the Asia-Pacific region, the event was held at the Chiang Mai Exhibition and Convention Centre (CMECC).

Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Centre is one of the largest convention and exhibition centers in Southeast Asia. With usable space of 60,000 square meters, the center was perfectly prepared for this prestigious and important event.

Chiang Mai has some of the region’s best golf courses – 14 in total; the annual AGTC Golf Tournament took place at Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort and Mae Jo Golf Resort & Spa. Other delegates participated in a postconvention familiarization trip and a further 11 will enjoy the culture and history of Mae Hong Son, Lampang and Lamphun on a non-golfing tour.

Addressing delegates, IAGTO CEO, Peter Walton stated the importance of golf for Chiang Mai and Thailand, saying: “Asia is the powerhouse of global golf tourism and Thailand is the engine that sits at the heart of this dynamic region. Such is the capacity in Chiang Mai Province’s 14 courses that it is anticipated that golf tourism to Northern Thailand will grow by

some 25% over the next two years. Part of the reason for this is that while golf tour operators are very familiar with Thailand as a golf destination in general, it is clear that a majority had not visited Chiang Mai. Thailand is not the only country that is benefiting from this convention – with 4,200 business-to-business meetings prescheduled and many more taking place on site and ‘off campus’.”

Puttipong Sirimart, Chiang Mai’s Deputy Governor welcomed the convention attendees to Northern Thailand and the Lanna Culture said: “Golf tourism is a very important market for Chiang Mai and we know that with help from the IAGTO delegates Chiang Mai can grow this sector by 25% over the next two years.”

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Executive Director Marketing Services Department, Kitsana Kaewtumrong, told the AGTC delegates that the TAT’s tourism strategy was focused on four niche markets: wedding and honeymoons, health and wellness, green tourism and golf.

Golf is now #1.

“The increasing demand and popularity of golfing in Thailand among international golfers and golf tour operators has undoubtedly caught the attention of TAT and thereafter, we have placed a large emphasis on this market as golfers do not travel alone, they come with families and friends, a very important market for tourism,” he said.

While Chiang Mai attracted almost 8 million out of Thailand’s total of nearly 30 million tourists in 2015, only 120,000 visitors were golfers. “I strongly believe that today is a new beginning for Chiang Mai,” he said. “This convention is the catalyst for the growth of golf tourism.”

Journal ★ Comments

is goLf in a BiT of a hoLe? Revolutionary changes proposed from one of our favourite golf commentators.

At last, things are changing

in the ancient game. This year saw the men on The European Tour being allowed to wear shorts during Pro-am and practice round days. Can you believe it? The white legs finally got a tan and nobody could come up with a good answer to the question, “Why couldn’t they wear shorts before?”

The modernists have finally stolen a march and are a couple up at the turn. Formula One changes its rules every year, tennis has hawkeye, cricket has a third umpire, rugby has the video referee and even football finally accepted goal line technology.

Perhaps golf should be next in line for a revolutionary change?

As a golf commentator, I’ve had the good fortune to travel with the LPGA, LET, the men’s Asian and European tours over the past 15 years and upon seeing Lee Westwood’s nobbly knees, it dawned on me that we must strike while the hybrid is hot.

What other ideas could be implemented to drag the game from the Jurassic era to the 21st century? This is time for bold, inspired thinking and a golden opportunity to capitalize on the millennial gift that is Rory, Lydia, Rickie and Lexi.

So, here goes my front nine of changes that I would love to see at future professional events. (When I think of a back nine, you’ll be the first to know!)

Out with scorecards. Which other mainstream professional sport are you responsible for your own score? We all know who has won the golf tournament when the putt drops so why on earth does the champion have to go into a grotty porta cabin to sign and be responsible for their card after winning?

In with range finders during tournament play. Why? Because it looks cool. TV could have access to their data too so fans at home can see what distances they have. And you’ll never know, it might speed up play. Right, Kevin Na?

Perhaps a range finder can cure his yips and quicken play?

Engage with the fans. I get branding. There wouldn’t be golf tournaments without sponsors.

However, what’s the point of interviewing a player in front of a boring backdrop? Get the fans involved so they can listen in to what Lydia has to say on television after casually shooting an effortless 63. Have the fans in the background, see the course and create a celebratory atmosphere.

Day-to-night golf under floodlights. Just about every other sport does and it would attract a whole different type of fanbase.

(Although, admittedly, an electricity bill off the Richter scale) Make the 1st tee experience more entertaining. Think Boxing: “In the Blue Corner, we have a fighter with 50 knock outs…”

Imagine the first tee starter boldly announcing, “Let’s hear it for world number one Lydia Ko, just 18 years old and a gazillion world records to her name.”

Be able to use smart phones during play.

Tell fans to put their phones on silent and then snap away to their hearts content and blast it all over social media. Why can’t fans take photos if they are on silent? No, I haven’t thought of a really sensible answer either. Players will have to learn to deal with this at some point as all the other mainstream sports allow it.

Ban players from being lined up. You’re among the world’s best golfers. If you can’t line up a four foot putt, what hope is there for the rest of us?

Hear from the stars during play. Have a chat with the players on TV as they leave the first tee as it’s always good to hear what they have to say.

Ready golf. In this age, we do everything quickly. The concept of spending five hours on a golf course holds little appeal to many, so if you are ready to play, then pull the trigger.

There will be plenty who will snigger at the notions above, but don’t you think the game needs a major image overhaul? As Ian Poulter famously said, “It’s 2016, not 1990. Get rid of the stuffy rules that hold golf back. Make it more fun for everyone.”

By K at e B u rto n

Journal ★ Comments

MounTain Creek goLf Course

Over 60 golfers representing Thailand’s leading golf agents and tour operators as well as print and electronic media hit the new-look golf course at 12 noon shotgun start. The invitational tournament was played on Valley and Highland courses. The format of play was 36 System with four prizes - top three Net Scores and the Lowest Gross Score.

Many golfers, especially those who had played Mountain Creek twice or thrice in the recent past, felt very happy about the improvements made to the course. They said it’s now become a lot easier to play than before. Many fairways are clear of obstructions and greens and flags are more visible.

Ongreen golf magazine Director Khun Adisorn Pittayakun and Senior Editor Tanongsak Puribhat, Khun Udomwit Nuratch from Siam Keela and Khun Somjring Chuankul from GolfTime said the course had become more ‘open’ and it was a welcome change.“The fairways have become amazingly wider now giving more choices for shot placement! The knowledgeable caddies were really helpful,” they added.

Earlier welcoming the invitees, Mountain Creek Development Co., Ltd. Managing Director Khun Ausana Mahagitsiri said the 27-hole world-class golf course was designed by former world #1 and the winner of 5 Majors Seve Ballesteros. The championship standard Mountain Creek is Seve’s one and

Sikhio, March 17: Mountain Creek Golf Course, which put on a totally new, ‘golfer-friendly’ look after months of careful execution of improvements, has sprung many a surprise on golfers who participated at the Mountain Creek VIP Invitational 2016 here.

only golf course in Thailand!

With three partials of nine holes each named Creek, Valley and Highland according to their natural terrain and environs, the golf course promises a unique and memorable experience with challenges and rewards balanced to perfection, Khun Ausana added.

Mountain Creek’s golf management consultancy GLS Asia Managing Director Mr. Stacey Walton invited the audience to embrace the improvements which the management team had been working on in the past six months to improve the

playability of the course and to enhance the service standards to become the No.1 golf resort in the Khao Yai region. “We had to initiate the changes based on the feedback from customers that the golf course was too difficult to play,” Mr. Stacey explained GLS Asia Director of Operations Mr. Stuart Daly then remarked: “We have brought about a huge difference to the entire golf experience with efficient course maintenance, improved irrigation, enhanced service training, especially for caddies, and attention to detail in all areas of operations.”

Also, present was Mr. John Wither, GLS Asia PGA professional and former golfer on the Asian Tour who said the golf course was made a lot easier and more enjoyable to play. “Our prime objective to carry out improvements that included widening of fairways and pruning of overgrown trees was to ensure that golfers could clearly see the greens and pin flags. Khun Chai, the golf course superintendent maintains the course in excellent condition,” added Mr. John.

Mountain Creek is owned by PM Group, which also owns and manages the newly opened Lakewood Links in Bangkok, a floodlit 18-hole golf course open for day and night golf.

Their just introduced new membership program includes one year unlimited golf at Mountain Creek. Details of the membership can be found on www. mountaincreekthailand.com.

Mr. Stacey announced Mountain Creek Golf Resort would be the host venue for the first ever professional golf tour in Thailand sanctioned by the MENA (Middle East & North Africa) Golf Tour from 9-12 May 2016. The fastest growing MENA Golf Tour – www.menagolftour. com – provides an effective platform for professional golfers to gain world rankings!

Legends

Great Britain & Ireland captain, Bernard Hunt, with the Ryder Cup trophy at Muirfield, Scotland, January 1973.

Back in the dark days when the American Ryder Cup beast regularly slayed the Brits, one man always stood up to be counted...

Wo r d s: r i c h a r d L e n to n

Bernard Hunt was born in Atherstone, a town located near the northernmost tip of Warwickshire, in February 1930. His father, John, was the professional at Atherstone Golf Club, where the family lived in a small house. With his formative years revolving around golf, he was destined to take up the game. Indeed golf was to become a family heritage as, at the age of five, when Bernard began hitting balls with an old hickory club, his brother, Geoff – himself a future professional – entered the world.

Encouraged by his father, Bernard quickly developed into a consummate all round player. After school, he’d race home and hit balls around the practice area, or earn extra pocket money by caddying for the members. It was a lucrative sideline for a kid who harboured dreams of playing the game for a living.

“One year, just after the War ended, we went on holiday up to Blackpool, in the car that had been up on blocks while my Dad was away (serving during the War). I’d earned the magnificent sum caddying of 25 quid,” he once said.

“That was a lot of money in the 1940s, but my brother and I managed to blow it all in three days in Blackpool on the rides and the slot machines. We had the time of our

lives, but my mother was very upset that we’d spent so much money in such a short period of time. The bright lights of Blackpool were a bit special then.”

In 1946, at the age of 16, the strapping six-footer followed in his father’s footsteps by turning professional, and quickly began to make a name for himself on the tournament circuit. He was regularly in the hunt for the meagre post-War pickings, but, just as he was beginning to establish himself as a young player of real renown, he was called up for National Service with the Royal Airforce. He was barely 18-years-old.

Stopped for doing 85mph in a 70mph zone, he arrives just in time to see Tiger Woods rip one down the first “I must have already made something of a name for myself by then, because when I went from training camp in Wolverhampton to the permanent base in Hertfordshire, I was sent for by the chief wing commander, who said, ‘I understand you’re a very good golfer’. And I said ‘well I do play’. They wanted me in the Airforce team, and I could have got in like that and had a much easier life, but I said, ‘well I don’t think I can because I’m already a professional’. That simply wasn’t allowed, and I was out through the door so quickly my feet didn’t touch the ground! I hardly touched a club for two years.”

Despite losing 24 months of his career, Hunt quickly re-established himself on the pro scene after reemerging from the wilderness, forging a friendly rivalry with another up and coming Brit, Peter Alliss.

“I always wanted to play tournaments, and Peter was the same. We were the first two who weren’t just club pros, we were tournament pros,” he adds. “I was the first to win what I’d call a major prize, which was the Spalding event down at Worthing. The first prize was £300 and I felt like a millionaire after winning that. I played two fairly ordinary rounds and then shot 64, which, in those days, was a very good score. I holed everything. That put me in the lead after three and I managed to hang onto it in the last round.”

In 1953, at the tender age of 23, Hunt was called up to Great Britain’s Ryder Cup team for the bi-annual clash with the all-conquering Americans at Wentworth.

The upstarts from across the pond had won seven of the nine events played, including a 9 1/2-2 1/2 demolition at Pinehurst two years previously, but it didn’t phase the new kid on the block.

“It was really exciting, and I was confident that I could beat them, although I’m not sure some of my team-mates felt the same,” he adds. “Henry Cotton was captain, and he really looked after us and showed us a good time. Food rationing was still on, but he’d got connections to get us steaks and other amazing things.

We lived like Lords – I’d never been treated like that before. He took us to the theatre to try and relax us, but I’ve no idea what we watched!”

Cotton’s man-management skills paid off, as his team of so-called whipping boys stood toe-to-toe with the star-studded Americans. The hosts trailed 3-1 heading into Sunday’s singles – traditionally America’s strongest event – but stormed back, thanks to famous wins for Fred Daly, Eric Brown and Harry Weetman.

After Harry Bradshaw’s 3&2 victory over Fred Haas, all eyes turned to Hunt’s match against Dave Douglas.

Victory for the Englishman would mean that the event was tied for the first time.

Hunt was behind until the 16th hole, when he finally holed a putt of note to even things up. Then, heading up the 17th, Douglas fell apart, twice hooking his ball out of bounds and into the gardens.

“After his second out of bounds shot, he just walked off.

The ref told me to pick my ball up because he’d conceded, but I wasn’t sure if he was playing tricks. I kept shouting to him, to confirm that he’d conceded, but he didn’t respond, so I played another shot down the fairway. This time he picked up and gave me the hole.” All Bernard needed now was a half at the last.

Hunt’s third shot to the par-five 18th was a delicate pitch and run to the back of the green. Both players were on in three – a famous draw was on the cards. Hunt gently rolled his first putt back down the green, the ball coming to rest just four-feet from the hole. He had a putt for a tie.

“I jabbed at it, and it missed. It was an easy putt, but that’s pressure,” he recalls, with the pain still etched on his face.

It was a devastating moment for Hunt and the battling British team.

By 1957, when the Americans arrived at Lindrick GC in Rotherham, Hunt was determined to atone for his meek surrender four years previously. But again, the disparancy between the two teams was obvious before a ball was even struck. The US were calling on players who were all part of a regular tour, and, in Dick Mayor, Doug Ford and Lionel Hebert, their team boasted three of that year’s Major champions.

The Americans travelled first class and stayed in swanky accommodation, and, to add to the GB team’s inferiority complex, the home side’s wives were banned from staying with them at the hotel. This was half a century before the ‘Hello!’ magazine generation of WAGS trespassed onto the newsstands. One of the British players, Christy O’Connor, said, “it was absolutely ridiculous to see grown men kiss their loved ones goodnight at the front door of the hotel.

The Americans, naturally, thought this was a great joke.”

After the opening day, Dai Rees’s men were in an all too familiar position, trailing 3-1. Bernard recalls, “that morning, Jack Wood, the golf writer for the Daily Mail, said that if we clawed our way back to win the Ryder Cup, then the team could bury him in a cartload of shit! Reading that got Dai all fired up. I never needed that though – I didn’t get too excited because I was still of the opinion that we could win. I always felt that I could hold my end up.”

In Sunday’s singles, Bernard was paired against two-time Major winner Doug Ford, who’d donned the Green Jacket just a few months previously. Press and public alike believed

that the clash – the sixth of eight matches – would be little more than a dead rubber, but strange things were happening in South Yorkshire.

“I could see the leaderboard with Union Jacks on one side and the Stars and Stripes on the other, and it was all us. But I just kept trying to play good golf. I was one or two up in the morning, but then I started to run away with it a bit, got six up, and he was very snotty,” he adds.

“The Americans all thought that we Brits were great putters who wouldn’t get round the course if we didn’t hole everything. Let’s say I had a few ‘friendly’ chats with Doug.

Hunt eventually recorded a famous 6&5 win as Britain closed in on victory; the nightmare of 1953 was now a distant memory. It was left to the mercurial O’Connor to hole the putt that secured ownership of the trophy, in a 7&6 drubbing of Dow Finsterwald. It was also pay back time for a certain Daily Mail journalist.

“Apparently, after we won, a lot of people took lorry loads of shit and tipped it onto Jack Wood’s drive!” adds Bernard.

It was the last time Great Britain were to win the event, until the European contingent – led by the inspirational Seve Ballesteros – joined the party,

triumphing in 1985 at the Belfry. Bernard went on to play in eight Ryder Cups in total, including the famous drawn game in 1969. He also captained the side in 1973 and 1975, but by then, the Americans were a class apart.

“There was always talk that it was too easy for the Americans and that the contest was dying a death, but I didn’t feel that way,” adds Bernard, whose 1973 team was the first fortified by the presence of an Irish contingent. However, it made little difference to the score – GB and Ireland losing 19-13 at Muirfield Links – and in 1979 the side metamorphosed into Team Europe.

“Lord Derby felt that the contest needed improving and had a long talk with Jack Nicklaus to see how we could make it more even. But you do wonder now, that we’re on top so much, what the situation would be had it remained GB & Ireland,” adds Bernard, who was awarded the MBE for services to golf in the late ‘70s.

Hunt won over 20 professional tournaments in his long career, including two British Masters titles and the French and German Opens. He also topped the Order of Merit in 1958, 1960 and 1965. However, his lack of consistency with the driver held him back in his quest for Major honours.

“I was never good with the ball teed up; I was a dodgy driver, but my iron play was solid. Because of my problems with the driver, I never fancied my chances on the links in The Open. Most Open courses are a bit tight. I was better on the parkland courses.”

Despite his lack of confidence on the links, Hunt managed a top three finish at St Andrews in 1960, when Arnold Palmer’s appearance at the famous Old Course for the centenary Open reignited worldwide interest in the competition. Palmer finished one place above Hunt, but one behind the unknown Ken Nagle.

“I actually felt I came closer in 1965 at Birkdale when I finished fifth. I had a putt lip out for eagle on 17 which would have taken me to within a shot of the lead, but then I pulled my tee shot into the rough on the 18th and took five.”

Hunt believes that the American players held all the aces when it came to competing for the top prizes during his prime years.

“They played all year round, while we couldn’t because of the weather. I used to play in America quite a bit in the winter, but I was one of the few. Playing in America didn’t suit my game. I was a small ball player really. I used to hit the small ball better than the big one.

The big one for me was like a mushroom. Once you hit it, it would balloon into the sky.”

Bernard enjoyed seven seasons on the fledgling European Seniors tour in the ‘90s. He lived in Surrey, and occasionally taught at Foxhills Golf Club, where he served as head professional for some 25 years before he passed away on June 21, 2013. The club’s par 74, 18-hole Bernard Hunt course is Foxhills’ fitting tribute to the man.

Phil Sheldon, hiStoricgolf.com

The Interview Series

Wedged between the triumvirate of Nicklaus, Palmer and Player, and then the new fangled Tiger era is a hero whose golfing lights are finally going out.

By p e t e r r o Bi n s o n Beyond his resplendent talent that won him eight major championships and 39 PGA Tour titles, perhaps Tom Watson’s greatest accomplishment was that he navigated the considerable obstacles before him to become one of the game’s all-time greats.

Jack Nicklaus was still very much in his prime when Thomas Sturges Watson emerged from the American heartland city of Kansas City in the 1970s, roughly a decade younger than the Golden Bear. Both Arnold Palmer and Gary Player were both about finished as elite talents by the time Watson signalled his arrival with his 1975 Open Championship victory, Player’s pipping of Watson for the 1978 Masters crown the only overlap between those two men.

Palmer and Nicklaus in particular were the driving force in golf becoming a mainstream sport in America, helping to bring it into living rooms and keeping it there. Player joined them as the unofficial ambassadors in its growth worldwide and Palmer and Player still had a firm grip on the public imagination even if their

ability had lapsed by then. Nicklaus was still very much stuck in his perch as the world’s best player in the late-1970s; it was a tough group to break into, in both a competitive sense but also in the emotional mindset of the public.

But Watson did just that as the young upstart, in some ways in a similar fashion to how Nicklaus came to be embraced, even if many first thought that the pudgy blond bomber from Ohio was trying to break up a happy marriage that Palmer had with his army of fans.

Eventually, Watson’s presence was an appropriate contrast with The King, the Black Knight and the Golden Bear, even if there was no catchy label to describe him. Huck, after the literary character, Huckleberry Finn, was about as close to a nickname that Watson would get.

But he was simply Tom Watson.

“I feel grateful to have accomplished what I’ve accomplished,” he said last year at St. Andrews. “I hope that I’ve entertained people along the way. That’s the thing. I hope that they’ve enjoyed my golf play. I hope I’ve hit some shots that (fans) remember.”

Indeed. Watson can best be described as the sturdy bridge between Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, the two greatest players to ever play.

And because he never lost a certain regal air (more on that in a moment), there is a certain irony that as he prepares to bid farewell to major championship golf at the 2016 Masters, Watson exits as the best example of a senior golfer who, almost literally, turned back time.

The man who for the first half of his career appeared so young, got old, like the greats before him had done. But then, he showed that old guys can play with the flatbellies and win.

Or almost did.

Two months before he was to turn 60, Watson was a bad break away from winning the Open Championship in 2009 at Turnberry. His approach on the 72nd hole bounded through the green – had it not landed on a slight downslope it would have cozied up near the hole for a two-

© Greig Cowie/BPI/Corbis

putt victory – and he failed to get up and down to secure the win.

An all-time moment that would have transcended the sport took on a funereal air, played over four-holes in a playoff loss to Stewart Cink. Watson was undone by precisely one of the elements of links golf that he had come to accept – unpredictability.

Last year as he prepared for his final stroll across the Swilcan Bridge, he insisted what happened at Turnberry in 2009 was not cruel and unusual.

“I had so many times in my career where I hit a shot that cost me a tournament, but I had so many times in my career where I hit the shot that won me the tournament,” he said. “So they balanced out. So no, I don’t have any regrets on that. It was just kind of the luck of the shot.”

Instead, the regret and the sadness is that we’ve seen the last of him on that stage.

“The only regret I have is that it’s the end,” during the same St. Andrews press session last year.

“It really is. It’s the end. 40 years. It’s the end.”

Watson came to know that golf, especially links golf, gives you nothing for free. Arriving as he did in the 1970s, there was, back then, and some still think it still exists, an aloofness about the typical American touring professional when it came time to take their game overseas. The golf world remains full of stories of players not adjusting to the time change, the food, and most of all, the vagaries of links land. If the property isn’t sun-kissed and green as the contents of their wallets, it wasn’t golf, even if it was invented along this hallowed ground.

Watson struggled at first, then grew to appreciate links golf, then master the art. He even did it on the other side of the Irish Sea, developing a routine to cross the Atlantic early, spend a few days in Ireland to get his mind and body in shape, then take a short hop over to Scotland (or England) to tee it up at the Open Championship. They liked him so much in Ireland, a statue of him was erected at Ballybunion. But Tom Watson is not a saint, he is human after all.

Phil Mickelson may have come to embody the spoiled modern touring pro by speaking out and effectively throwing Watson under the bus at Gleneagles after the 2014 Ryder Cup – a case of “sour grapes” because he didn’t play Mickelson

The Open 1977/Turnberry - Jack Nicklaus & Tom Watson's final day.

Photo:Brian morgan/@Phil Sheldon golf Picture

as much as he expected, but it’s not as though Watson hadn’t voiced his own opinion in the past as well although he was mostly right in doing so. Calling out Player in 1983 at the Skins Game was one such instance.

Watson said Player pulled a rooted leaf and Player contended it was a loose impediment. It was controversial but not unreasonable. Eleven years later, Watson went too far in complaining about American broadcaster (and journeyman touring pro) Gary McCord’s unique language during the Masters broadcast. More recently, his criticism of Tiger Woods in 2010 was not wrong, but going as far as he did made Watson sound holier-than-thou. For his part however, Watson said that he hopes he’s remembered for using his love of golf and applying it the right way.

“Well, I hope people say that I did the right thing,” he said. “I hope that people understood how passionate I was for the game, how I gave it 100 percent, and I don’t go blowing my own horn, but I hope that they understand that I’ve helped some people along the way.

That’s how I want to be remembered.”

Watson has never made excuses for his side’s poor performance at Gleneagles, insisting repeatedly that they were beat by a better team. But he did point out differences between the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup that work against the Americans, a point worth remembering in the lead-up to Hazeltine this season.

“Players want to play, they don’t want to sit,” in reference to the Ryder Cup format where all but the best players on each team sit out at least one session and often more. “I like how the Presidents Cup format does that, more than the Ryder Cup (does not).”

Throughout his career, Watson has made steadfast efforts both big and small that have showed his humanitarian side. Watson’s most public display of generosity probably came when his longtime caddie

Bruce Edwards was dying of ALS a little more than a decade ago. He stuck by his bagman to the end and still supports the charity set-up in Edward’s name that raises funds to battle the dreaded disease.

Those are many far less obvious examples. To wit: captaining the U.S. side at an exhibition in Canada last year, Watson sought out Mike Weir, the 2003 Masters champion, who has struggled mightily over the past several years.

Having finished the event and with its participants rushing about the clubhouse to get ready for post-competition festivities, onlookers were treated to one of the all-time greats giving a struggling fellow Masters champion swing tips.

Watson has too has been on the receiving end of some goodwill as well, sometimes at unexpected times, far away from the golf course. Asked to tell a story about where he was when Weir took the Green Jacket in 2003, Watson surprised listeners with this tale.

“I missed the cut that year and so I went home and was hunting wild turkey on Sunday. I left my lights on in the car, drained the battery and when I went to go and ask for (a boost), I knocked on the door of the closest house and some guys were in there watching Mike, who was about to win it in a playoff. I still don’t think that those guys who helped me truly understand what happened.”

Watson’s own struggles of late showed him it was time to bow out gracefully. First at St. Andrews, and now at Augusta.

“I’m not hitting the ball nearly as far as I was in 2009,” he said. “It also has a lot to do with my long-iron play. The ball is not coming down with any sort of any spin and that is a problem. It’s tough to hit knuckleballs and compete against the younger guys.”

And what of those younger guys, Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy, and a few others, who have now assumed the same role that Watson had 40 years earlier. He’s both impressed and confident that they are made of the right stuff, even if he shares some concern the rest of us do about golf’s recreational stagnation.

The last question he took at St. Andrews perfectly summed up the game he now leaves.

“The professional game is in great stead. I think it’s really in a good place,” he said. “There’s always going to be young people coming along to challenge. We’re going to be looking to see if Tiger can make a comeback, we’re going to see if Jordan Spieth has what it takes, and Jordan said it right, he said, I’m not in Rory’s league. This isn’t a rivalry, I haven’t done what Rory has done. But that’s what everybody is waiting for.”

Sadly, he takes the amateur game in a far less positive light. In his honest and candid way, he expresses that “we’re losing participants,” adding, “There’s all kinds of reasons that you might look at about that. It’s expensive, takes too long to play, it’s hard to learn. Those have always been the three things about golf. I’ve always said that about golf. And today maybe they’re more true than others, but I still have great hopes that the game will still survive as far as people learning to have the passion for the game.”

And it is this passion that defined Watson as he heads off into the sunset.

Cover Story

Ayrshire & ArrAn An ancient world of mystical courses and spectacular views await those who visit Scotland’s west coast for this year’s Open Championship.

WO R D S & P H OTO G R A P H Y BY DAV I D J W H Y T E

The Open returns to Ayrshire’s bonnie banks this summer for the 145th time at the illustrious Royal Troon Golf Club along Scotland’s west coast. With no fewer than three Open Championship venues including Turnberry’s Ailsa Course and the historic Prestwick Golf Club on top of the earlier, they’ve hosted 35 Open Championships. That’s pretty good going when you consider there have been only 144 in total and St Andrews has hosted only 29.

Historically, golf came to Scotland’s west coast much later compared to the game’s start in the east.

It was with the coming of the railway that Ayrshire

fully grasped the game. But boy, once it did, it fairly set the heather alight. I’m not saying West is best but as Old Tom Morris did famously spout when he first gazed upon the rippling dunes of Machrihanish on the West’s Kintyre Peninsula, This was ground “Created by the Almighty to play golf on.”

Ayrshire’s natural links bordering the Clyde Estuary are certainly suited to the game. If you fly in to Prestwick Airport you instantly get the picture. We’re talking wall-to-wall greenery. Or take the train from Glasgow and you’ll lose count of the number of golf holes you pass.

THE OPEN VENUES Prestwick Golf Club was the very first venue for The Open Championship when in 1860, Old Tom Morris and members of Prestwick came up with the bright idea of inviting a handful of Scottish professionals (then known as caddies) for a match across their rudimentary 12-hole course. Only eight contenders showed up and went round the course three times in the one day.

Willie Park, Sr. from Musselburgh won with a score of 174 beating Old Tom by two strokes. Prestwick Golf Club still celebrates its rich and fascinating history. You can see replicas of the original Open Championship Belt and Claret Jug on display in the clubhouse. Prestwick hosted the Open no fewer than 24 times before it became too difficult to move crowds safely around the hilly terrain.

Like any old timer, the course can be a bit crotchety at times in that there are blind holes everywhere and funny twists over much wrinkled fairways. But that’s all part of the excitement and I highly recommend you stop by and pay homage.

Turnberry has become yet another Trump property.

Love him or loath him, Donald Trump does get things done and the plans for both the hotel and golf courses are nothing short of spectacular. They include some serious adjustments to the Ailsa course which has purists shanking at the thought but actually, we will end up with a far better routing - and that’s saying something.

The most noticeable changes occur at No. 9, a humpbacked par 4 which was always a bit unfair in my opinion. Now, it will be one of the most exhilarating par 3’s in the world playing across a rocky bay with the outstanding Turnberry Lighthouse contributing to a jawslacking backdrop. Changes to the 10th and 11th are equally imaginative and impressive incorporating the shorelines more than they did before. The course is due to open again on June 1, 2016 and personally I can’t wait.

And that leaves us with a very quick word about Royal Troon, this year’s host venue for the Open Championship.

For a long time I found Royal Troon too difficult especially on the tee with acres of rough and apparently little else. Now thanks to a few more rounds with my good friend, Stewart Watt, owner of South Beach Hotel in Troon, I’m a convert.

This long and dashing links really does demand superlative play of the tee but once you find your feet with the big stick it’s quality all the way. The first few holes are relatively easy followed by an amazing string of excellence from around the 5th through to the 13th before it calms down again.

WEST COASTAL DELIGHTS What you need to keep in mind is that golf in Scotland is a character building process. Because Scottish courses offer so much depth of interest, natural variation and elemental challenges in the shape of ancient rippling links that have little to do with man’s artice.

Dundonald Links isn’t so ancient but it’s very much a natural piece of rolling links and challenging venue especially if the wind is up, as it most often is. The challenge is in gaining length and adjusting to Dundonald’s frighteningly fast fairways and extra large greens. Long

RIGHT PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Prestwick Golf Club18th hole and the Clubhouse; Sunset at Royal Troon Golf Club; Royal Troon Golf Club; Turnberry Golf Club- 8th hole, Ailsa Course; Turnberry Golf Club-8th hole, Kintyre Course.

drivers will delight in this new style of old Scottish links but be careful you don’t overdrive into trouble.

Then, just across the railway, next to the beach is Western Gailes. Like Goldilocks’s porridge, this course is ‘just right’; it’s a full-on links tucked into gorgeous duneland with wonderfully natural turf, which gives your irons that satisfying thump. The shapes and turn of every hole keeps you on your toes and I would go as far as to say this is probably ‘the best of the rest’ in terms of the top courses in this area.

Glasgow Gailes is next up, a decent test but dare I say not quite as charismatic as Western Gailes. Meanwhile, a few miles up the coast, West Kilbride is another fine links with amazing views of the Island of Arran. Irvine Golf Club is a great example of a course that doesn’t feature on most hit lists but should. The first few holes are slightly quirky especially the 3rd, 4th and 5th but they are zesty little challenges with a twist in their tail. I loved this course - I’ve only played it the once and would play it several times over to savour its nuances.

Besides Royal Troon, Troon’s three municipal courses are the envy of every town council around the globe.

Lochgreen is the best but take on Troon Darley and know what it is to be dragged through a (gorse) bush backwards. It’s not that bad but there are few more challenging short courses in Britain. Troon’s Kilmarnock Barassie is a stone’s throw away - a lot easier and more relaxing.

Sticking with municipals, a trip down to the town of Ayr must include a visit to Belleisle Park. There are two good courses here. Seafield is more links in nature while Belleisle most definitely parkland. Touring professionals of old used to book a round at Belleisle when they were in the area, so great was its reputation. The big course is a massively satisfying parkland with some exceptional holes like the Par 3, 6th or the long Par 5 at the end, one of the best finishing holes I know.

Back to Prestwick and you’ll find St. Nicholas and St. Cuthberts, two saints who evidently took umbrage with the committee at Prestwick Golf Club and set up on their own. St. Nicholas is the more sporty and linksy with a wonderful subsoil yet again being so close to the sea while St. Cuthberts is further inland.

MILE HIGH CLUB

If you plan on attending the Open Championship at Royal Troon this year, here’s a package that will set you flying.

Mach Dunes Helicopters lets you ride a luxury helicopter to and from the Open at Troon while enjoying the sumptuous surrounds of the Village at Machrihanish Dunes, one of Scotland’s most tranquil, exclusive spots. Only 20 minutes by air, you’ll have no car parks, no long walks and luxurious accommodation, worldclass golf, dining and service away far from the crowds. Contact: machrihanishdunes.com/the-open-championshipexperience

ACROSS TO ARRAN From every coastal golf course in Ayrshire, the views of The Island of Arran act as magnets. Hop onto a ferry with a car and be there in less than an hour for less than £50 for a car and two adults.

Referred to as ‘Scotland in Miniature’ because of its mountains to the north and pastoral plains to the south, this Lilliputian isle not only offers a complete break from the busy mainland but also incredible food, delectable whisky, stunning vistas and no less than seven golf courses. And each is completely unique.

You land in the town of Brodick and five minutes later can be teeing up at Brodick Golf Club. It’s a short course by mainland standards but offers breathtaking views to Brodick Castle and across Brodick Bay as well as some scintillating holes. By all means, this is holiday golf - as is all the golf on Arran but then that’s why you should come here - for a real vacation away from the vicissitudes of mainland life.

The next course, Corrie Golf Club, is a midget but with a mammoth setting. Sheltered by Goat Fell (Arran’s main mountain) with its tiny greens and amazing sense of sheer peace and tranquility, it is definitely worth sampling. The same can be said of Lochranza Golf Club where herds of red deer barely blink as golfers stroll by leaving them to munch the sweet rough grass. On the south side of Brodick is Lamlash Golf Club, again with breathtaking vistas of the Holy Isle, now a Buddhist retreat. Carry on south and you’ll reach Whiting Bay, rather steep to begin with but lots of fun holes on offer high above town.

There’s a zesty little 9-holer on the other side of the island called Machrie Golf & Tennis Club. The late, great Walter Hagen and party came to play ‘The Machrie’, a course of great repute on the Isle of Islay. But some scallywag intentionally or mistakenly sent the party to the wrong island - and hence the wrong golf club!

Hagen and Co. took it with good humour and played the wee 9-hole Machrie Bay course with its stunning views to The Mull of Kintyre and met with whole-hearted approval of the locals who had gathered to watch their celebrated visitors. There are very few simple little 9-hole courses anywhere in the world that can say, ‘Walter Hagen played here!’

LEFT PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Belleisle Golf Club, Seafield Course; Western Gailes Golf Club - 7th hole; West Kilbride Golf Club; Lochgreen Golf Course; Dundonald Golf Club.

THIS PAGE FROM TOP: Corrie Golf Club; Brodick Golf Club; Shiskine Golf Club - 5th hole.

There’s one other course on Arran that golfers simply must sample. I’ve played it a dozen times and coincidentally that’s exactly how many holes there are at Shiskine Golf Club, a lovely little links on the island’s west side. There are golf pundits purporting that 12 might just be the ideal number of holes for a golf course. In the beginning, Prestwick Golf Club only had a dozen and Jack Nicklaus has been promoting a 12-hole circuit on his home patch in Ohio as being the perfect length.

In Shiskine’s case though this argument is somewhat spurious. Once you’ve sampled the sheer joy of these stupendous links holes, you immediately want to go round again. Maybe 24 should be the magic number. www.ayrshiregolfscotland.com

Ayrshire’ s PleAsures

Whether you’re into poetry or not, the very best day out in Ayrshire is to be found at the robert Burns Birthplace Museum where, by pre-arranged appointment they will have a piper waiting and a haggis lunch served by costumed locals, complete with whisky. it’s hairraising stuff and sandy, our guide made the entire visit unforgettable. www.burnsmuseum.org.uk (contact Clair Grant) Culzean Castle was President eisenhower favourite hangout during and after World War ii. Now, you can stay in the impressive eisenhower Apartment as a paying guest or simply walk the gardens and take in the views of this impressive pile. www.nts.org.uk established in 1868, A. D. rattray are independent whisky bottlers who run a 5-star Visitor Attraction, The A. D. rattray Whisky experience and Whisky shop in south Ayrshire, just before you reach Turnberry. There you can have a proper tasting or fill your own personal bottle straight from a cask. www.adrattray.com

Where To sTAy

For me, there’s only one place to stay in Troon and that’s south Beach hotel. Perhaps not as fancy as some of its neighbours, it’s run by stewart Watt and family who are great golfers and make you feel extremely welcome and at home.

Tel: 01292 312033 www.southbeach.co.uk Another great recommendation is Carlton hotel in Prestwick. it’s stylish, quite modern and very reasonably priced. www.carlton-prestwick.com Turnberry hotel will open again this spring and as long as The Donald hasn’t run away with his money it will no doubt be resplendent. We’ll do a special report just as soon as it reopens but suffice to say, in the past it was one of the best in Scotland - especially for breakfast. www.turnberry.co.uk

Where To eAT

Troon, Prestwick and Ayre are chock full of great little cafes and restaurants. it seems to be part of its holiday town heritage. head for any of Buzzwork's four fine establishments. They’ve set the standard. ellioTs BAr & resTAurANT 132 Main street, Prestwick, Ayrshire KA9 1PB Tel: +44 (0)1292 677 677 www.elliots-prestwick.com liDos CAFÉ, BAr & resTAurANT 11–17 West Portland street, Troon KA10 6AB Tel: +44 (0)1292 310 088 www.lido-troon.com Treehouse BAr & Grill 67–69 sandgate, Ayr KA7 1BZ Tel: +44 (0)1292 288 500 www. treehouseayr.co.uk sCoTTs Troon yacht haven, harbour road, Troon KA10 6DJ Tel: +44 (0)1292 315 315 www.scotts-troon.com

My Top Ten

Bernhard Langer top ten

34 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

The indefatigable German trailblazer still at the top of his game, shares his most memorable places to play at.

By R o Bi n B a Rw i c k , P i c t u R e By G e t t y i m aG e s, co u Rt e s y o f m e R c e d e s - Be n z.

As

a teenager in Anhausen, Germany, Bernhard Langer told a careers advisor he wanted to be a professional golfer.

This was in 1971, by which time Germany had very few club professionals and none on tour. The advisor was confused by Langer’s ambition and checked his filing cabinet for reference to professional golf. He came back and said: “There is no such thing as a golf professional. I strongly advise you find something else to do.”

Langer persevered, turned professional in 1972 at the age of only 15 and worked as an assistant professional at the Strasslach Club in Munich. He made his debut on the European Tour in 1976, won the first of two European Order or Merit titles in 1981 and won the Masters in 1985 and in 1993. Langer played on 10 European Ryder Cup teams, captained the European team to a record win on US soil in 2004, and in 2008 he became the first European to win the money list on the Champions Tour.

Thank goodness Langer did not pay attention to that career advisor 45 years ago.

“It is hard to believe those Masters wins were that long ago,” Langer tells Golf Vacations. “I know one thing, 25 years ago I would never have thought I would still be playing competitive golf at 58!”

And competitive Langer remains. He turned 50 in 2007 and won back-to-back senior majors in 2010 at the Senior Open and US Senior Open. Last year, Langer became the first golfer to win the Charles Schwab Cup three times.

Scotland’s Sandy Lyle, the Masters champion of 1988, is the only European golfer to have played in more Masters tournaments than Langer, with 34 appearances to Langer’s 32, although Langer has made more cuts and played more Masters rounds, 110 to Lyle’s 102. Topping his list of favourite courses, unsurprisingly then, is Augusta National.

1

Carnoustie, angus, sCotland “Carnoustie is a great golf course and a great test. I have always enjoyed the challenge there and while the course is very long, you don’t have to be one of the biggest drivers to score well. A lot depends on the wind direction.”

Gary Player said Carnoustie is the hardest golf course in the world. A great Scottish links that has staged The Open seven times, it is the longest of the Open courses. Langer won the Senior Open here in 2010.

2 royal

PorthCawl, glamorgan, wales

“I came close to winning The Open a couple of times but it never worked out, so it was amazing for me to win the Senior Open for the second time and to set some new records. It is a beautiful golf course at Royal Porthcawl, and it is a course that rewards good shots.”

Royal Porthcawl is widely considered the finest championship golf course in Wales. A links that dates back to 1891, golfers can enjoy sea views from every hole. Langer won the 2014 Senior Open here by a record 13 shots.

3 Pebble

beach, california, USa “Pebble Beach is a spectacular golf course and a great championship test. The wind is always a factor there so golfers have to be very careful with club selection.”

Pebble Beach, perched on the craggy Monterey Peninsula in California, with the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, has become synonymous with the U.S. Open, hosting the championship five times since 1972.

4 aUgUSta

national gc, georgia, USa

“Designed by Bobby Jones and Alister Mackenzie, Augusta National is an incredibly special place but it is also tough. To play well there you need to be precise with your irons and have a good short game.”

Augusta National is the home of the Masters, the only men’s major that is played at the same golf course every year. The course opened in 1932 and the inaugural Masters followed in 1934. Langer remains the only German Masters champion.

36 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

5 Cypress

point, California, Usa “Cypress Point is an amazing place. Like Augusta National, the course was designed by Alister Mackenzie and it emphasizes his expertise in knowing how best to utilise land for golf. Mackenzie has influenced by following his own design philosophy significantly.”

Just up the road from Pebble Beach on the Monterey Peninsula, the strictly private Cypress Point is one of the few golf courses in the world that can eclipse Pebble Beach for the sheer drama of its landscape.

6 old CoUrse, st andrews, sCotland

“I love links golf and the Old Course is golf’s original links. I enjoy playing there, and if you drive well and avoid its pot bunkers you get good angles into its greens and you can score well.”

The Old Course at St Andrews staged The Open for the 29th time in 2015, more than any other course.

Historians are not certain when golf was first played on this famous linksland, but educated guesses point to the 15th century.

7 Royal

BiRkdale, lancashiRe, england “It’s just a great golf course built around a stunning dune system. It is a challenging course but it is also fair. You need every part of your game to be sharp to play well there.”

Royal Birkdale is a young course compared to most of the golf courses on the rota for hosting The Open, with the existing course not opening until 1922. It has made up for lost time though, in hosting The Open nine times since 1954.

8 Royal

MelBouRne, VictoRia, austRalia

“The fairways are wide at Royal Melbourne and the greens are large, but to play well there golfers need to find the right part of the greens, depending on pin positions. It is a strategic golf course with lots of options.”

Royal Melbourne is Australia’s pre-eminent golf course. When professional tournaments are played there they tend to play a composite of the club’s East and West courses. The East was designed by Alex Russell and the West by Alister Mackenzie.

38 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

9 Portmarnock, Dublin, rePublic of irelanD

“Portmarnock is a classic links and I have played in the Irish Open there many times. Aged 19, I had my first lead on the European Tour there – but with nine to play, I started thinking about my victory speech and I lost. Fortunately I did win there a few years later, in 1987.”

Sitting on the shores of the Irish Sea, 10 miles from Dublin, Portmarnock is one of the great old Irish links. Arnold Palmer played links golf here for the first time, when he and Sam Snead won the 1960 Canada Cup, and Portmarnock’s tour history includes staging the Irish Open 19 times.

10 camPo

De Golf el Saler, Valencia, SPain “El Saler is a superb golf course which plays a lot like a British links, as the course is carved out of the rugged Spanish coastline. When I shot 62 to win the Spanish Open, it was one of the great rounds of my career.”

Located in the Albufera Nature Park and on the Mediterranean coast, El Saler opened in 1968 and was designed by Spaniard Javier Arana.

Some holes wind through pine forests while others flank the sea.

Langer set a course record of 62, 10 under par, at El Saler in the 1984 Spanish Open.

The 19th

David J Whyte plunders the 2016 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida in search of his perfect mixed bag.

S to ry & P h oto g r a P h y by Dav i D J W h y t e

When you think about it, the basic golf club hasn’t changed that much since the days of Old Tom Morris and Willie Auchterlonie. It’s a chunk of metal secured to a stick. But now there are leagues of scientists, metallurgists and biomechanists bending backwards, pun intended, to make the game a lot more interesting. For five days in January, every clubmaker, fashion label and gadget inventor came together at The PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando for that annual golfing extravaganza that sets the tone for the year ahead.

Moment of inertia, multi-material construction, Beryllium, Beta-Titanium, Boron, and the list go on. Easily one of the most attended parts of the show is Demo Day, which is without exaggeration, as much as science fair as it is a golf nerd’s paradise. Here at the biggest club test event of the year, every club manufacturer big and small have their wares ready as participants blasted away with every possible combination of model, shaft and grip.

There is talk of The Show getting smaller in terms of exhibitors scale and numbers – Nike is conspicuously missing, and Taylormade, which traditionally takes up big acreage, has reduced its footprint, but it is still a smorgasbord of the finest in golfing science, technology and design. And with the array of products on display, the year ahead looks as exciting as any other.

40 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

OPENING PICTURE: Bubba takes shots at Drone @ Demo Day.

Two-time US Masters champion, Bubba Watson, seemed to be the busiest man at the PGA Show this year.

He was everywhere. We met him first at the PING truck just hanging out and chatting with fans before jumping into a really good demo and interview session for everyone before nipping round the other side of the Demo Day Driving Range to try and knock a drone down with a 56-degree wedge. This latter stunt is in the vein of the fabulous US$58,000 golfing hovercraft named BW1 that another sponsor, Oakley, pulled up three years back.

Although less expensive, this trick is as spectacular to watch. There is some great footage of the drone filming while Bubba takes pot shots that you can view on YouTube. He nicks it one time, then it seems to recover before it takes off totally out of control. Well, so would you if Bubba Watson nailed you in the rotors.

Also on hand was venerable golfing coach, David Leadbetter. He did two presentations on his A Swing book and really getting behind his simple, new (“A” stands for “Alternative”) way to swing the club as we’ve reviewed recently, claiming it can help to fix many of golf’s common faults. Then, there are the many 42 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

LEFT TO RIGHT: Bubba Watson at Demo Day, Florida; David Leadbetter; RoboGolfPro.

PGA Show discussions and forums which are a great opportunity to settle down, usually in a quiet room and get your head tuned into the latest thoughts and trends in the golf world, one of which will blow your mind RoboGolfPro. ROBOGOLFPRO Have you ever experienced the perfect golf swing? I mean, really? The one that sent the ball away effortlessly directly on target with barely a blip on the anxiety radar and it landed purely just as you wished? I reckon hitting a hot shot like that is about as rare as a hole in one but there is a system that can let you experience the perfect golf swing over and over again.

Bring on RoboGolfPro. This contraption, I suspect a close cousin of Iron Byron, lets the golfer experience the perfect ergonomically and physically correct golf swing, precisely dialled into their own ability and physique.

RoboGolfPro does what no teaching pro can ever do, which is to physically guide you through the perfect swing.

“There is some great footage of the drone filming while Bubba takes pot shots that you can view on YouTube.

He nicks it one time, then it seems to recover before it takes off totally out of control.”

Up until now golfers have had to rely on their own feel and visual feedback or instruction from a coach, video analysis or a truck-full of technological gizmos.

None of the above can however record your swing, make corrections to it and hand it back to you polished to perfection.

Once you’ve been programmed, i.e. all the swing imperfections removed, you take hold of your club again and let RoboGolf guide you through the corrected swing, slowly at first to let you get the feel of it. And then, faster and faster, until you are emulating your natural swing speed. As you try to fall back into your old habits, the robot resists and gently guides you back on to the perfect track.

It is almost scarily simple but makes complete sense.

With RoboGolfPro, if your mechanics are correct then your body will follow and learn the correct movement naturally. RoboGolfPro teaches you the swing you need and you can then easily adjust your body to match it. I only spent about five minutes on RoboGolfPro but rest assured, this was enough to convince me that this is one of the most exciting things at this year’s PGA Show.

,

DAVID S

BAG

First of all, we need a bag. Sun Mountain has one of the most carry-friendly stand bags around.

Their 2FIVE Stand/Carry bag is the newest, lightest, full-featured golf bag on the market with rugged carbon fibre legs, lightweight nylon fabric and Sun Mountain’s excellent X-Strap Dual Strap System. The finished product weighs-in at a scant 2.5 pounds. If you want something slightly more substantial, their lightweight Front 9 is still really compact, lightweight and roomy enough for a full set of clubs, a handful of balls and a rain suit with a retail price of US$169.99. www.sunmountain.com

IRONS

I’ve been a Mizuno iron man forever. Until now.

Maybe I’m getting older and need a little more finding the spot.

I’ve been trying the M25 for two weeks and now they have been trumped by Callaway’s XR irons.

The love affair began last year when I’d been given a set of X2 Hot irons by the good people at New York Golf Centre and guess what - I really liked them. They were silky smooth, so light and easy to swing. I actually gave them to my son on a trip to Hazeltine National last summer but have since nabbed them back.

So enter Callaway’s new XR irons.

Remember this is my own personal choice and although I’m still a single figure player, I am getting older. It was a hard choice as TaylorMade’s new M2 Tour irons are a tidy, long distance alternative but I’m going with the XR for my longer term enjoyment.

44 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

MIXED BAG

Instead of showcasing all and sundry, we decide to let our single-digit handicapped middle aged Scotsman put together what he feels is that perfect mixed bag of products just for fun and here’s what we got.

By Dav i D J. W hy te

PUTTER

I’ve tried putters of every denomination and configuration in my time but nothing comes close to Scotty Cameron. How does he do it?

There’s a club in Japan that reveres them like holy relics. Take the Scotty Cameron Newport Select 2.5 new for example; precision milled, elegantly moulded, simple and stunning to hold and look at all the way down to red-dot cosmetics that remind me of an Oldsmobile’s brake lights augmented by a Silver Mist finish.

So without further ado, in goes the Newport Select 2.5 with the little flail to its neck. Scotty himself was always around the Titleist stand throughout the show hanging with fans, signing autographs and generally being cool. He’s like the Tom Jones of the putting.

DRIVER AND WOODS

TaylorMade’s M1 driver launched late last year was impressive and now the M2 has arrived. The good news is that the M1 and M2 are like twins - similar but serving slightly different purposes. The M1 is fully adjustable taking care of any predilections you have towards slicing or hooking while the M2 ditches adjustability in favour of getting the weight lower and further back on the sole. This makes for a more efficient power transfer, more ball speed and at the same time forgiveness. Both the M1 and M2 are sensational. And they look very cool as well. I’d like to think I’m cool too so I put the M2 in my bag. Oh yes, and the woods too.

WEDGES

Hitting good wedges is a rare art and many of us leave it late in their life to discover it. The right wedge will give you greater confidence around the greens and save you many strokes.

With the right configuration and grind you’ll hit it more crisply and get the right amount of spin and roll.

When I got a hold of PING’s Glide wedges during Demo Day, I was sold. Comes with a longer Dylawedge grip for gripping down and improving trajectory control, a well-balanced CFS Wedge shaft and moisture-repelling 431 stainless steel head, there is a lot of technology in this club. Add four sole options, additional bounce and loft-optimised Gorge grooves, they slide through sand and turf just as well with true distance control.

BALLS

Bridgestone, the company that springs from Firestone tyres knows a thing or two about rubber and they are taking the segment ahead with their new ball-fitting service.

Their new fitting system ensures the correct golf ball is suited to the swing speed. Through more than 300,000 consumer fittings, Bridgestone Golf has fine-tuned their golf ball parameters to suit an array of amateur swings. For example, the new 2016 TOUR B330RX and TOUR B330RXS golf balls have been specifically engineered to produce longer drives and better spin around the green for players with swing speeds below 105 mph.

I’ve been using any golf ball in the bag but now after a proper Bridgestone fitting I’ll stick with the TOUR B330RX.

SHOES

To my mind, the morphing between cleated, brogue and casual street decks is now complete. When I’m at my Florida abode for the winter, I pretty much live in golf shoes. An interesting outfit from Portugal called Kankura combines streetwise fashion with functionality. The company has embraced a ‘laid-back’ style with their Oporto range but also they do a traditional brogues.

And for those that believe the golf swing starts from the feet up, the standout at this year’s PGA Show was Footjoy’s Freestyle.

We’re talking about milking every single centimetre of torque. The FreeStyle line was inspired by a colourful tree frog who spends his life any-way-up; his grip’s that good. The FJ shoe comes with a breathable performance mesh, extreme cushioning with slip-resistance in the heel and support.

GPS DEVICES

I’ve resisted the whole GPS trend. In fact it bugs me enormously when people take another 30 seconds or more over each shot as they fumble about with their laser scopes to get an exact measurement and then usually dump the ball 30 yards short or way off line. Then I received a GPS watch and to be honest, would now be lost without it. In my opinion watches are the better option because at a split-second glance, you get a fairly accurate idea of distance front, middle and back and that let’s face it is all we need. The GolfBuddy WT5 is a cool, slim design that is light and comfortable. The Dynamic Green View with moveable pin placement offers pinpoint accuracy. It’s also a fully functional digital wristwatch with a rechargeable battery that will last 35 days in watch mode (eight in golf mode).

APPAREL

The great thing about the PGA Show is that there’s always something unique and striking to offer. This time it’s QED Style, a Salt Lake City outfit founded by former mini tour player, Mike McRae. There’s a Western flare to their outfits, a cut that harkens back to men like Steve McQueen and James Dean. They’ve got a denim polo that feels nothing like denim - more like satin.

They call it their Sugarhouse Polo, a soft denim feel cut slightly slimmer for a more fitting look. Of course, they also do solid golf shirts with a twist around the yoke like a 4-snap button placket and more pointed collar that all tips a hat towards their Western roots.

The belts are straight off the High Chaparral; each one is handmade and one of a kind. In fact Mike’s dad makes them and each one looks collectible. They’ll even work with you to find the exact combination of rhinestone or New Mexico turquoise.

There is one other company I must pay homage to. I met these guys at Media Day and was immediately struck with the unusual quality of their fabrics. They’re from Singapore and called Chase 54, the perfect round of golf. A fabric manufacturer in their own right, the apparel is applied with moisture wicking to keep you either cool or warm and it is combined with exceptional stretch for the bio-mechanics.

GLOVES

Apparently the majority of golfers buy gloves that are slightly big. That’s not good because you might not feel the millimetre or so of movement or slippage but that millimetre easily turns into a meter or two off target.

Get them fitted via Footjoy’s online system and if anything, wear them lightly tight.

There’s only one glove out there that hits the top marque and that’s Footjoy’s Pure Touch.

They use only the finest select Cabretta leather offering a superb feel unlike any other glove I tried. You might have to shop around for them.

PureTouch gloves are rather exclusive which I can’t decide if this is a key marketing ploy of Footjoy or that they really do put so much into these gloves. They’re only available in a limited number of shops so get your hands onto them however you can. www.pgashow.com

The 19th How a national player survives four years in the top public university in America and remains competitive in both golf and life.

By J o E E Ko K

46 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

It is often said that the people we surround ourselves

with make us who we are. I have met many people along my golfing journey, but the people who have had the biggest impact on my life, beyond my family thus far, are those I met as a student-athlete at the University of California, Berkeley; an incredible journey in life that I will never forget.

Once the first day of classes began, I realize that being a student-athlete at the number one public university in 48 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

the world, and a top-30 golf team in the U.S., was not for the fainthearted – we practice three hours, four days a week, wake up at six for workouts over three mornings and play two rounds of golf. This weekly schedule is repeated for eight months during the year.

College golfers eat, sleep, live, and breathe golf. One can say that golf is essentially our part-time job (especially for those on scholarships). For the amount of time we spend together on the golf course, we spend an equal

number outside – we took classes together, studied together, and most of us lived together – we barely spent time apart, and this high level of interaction allowed us to bond very quickly.

In a team of seven to 10, we learn from each other but the top two players differentiated themselves by constantly practicing at a higher intensity. They were not contented to be the best in the team. They wanted to become the best in the nation. on the opposite end however, are the benchwarmers. I was a benchwarmer in my first two years, and always felt bittersweet when the team won a tournament – I was happy for them, but bitter for not being involved.

I became disillusioned quickly, afraid that my poor performances on the golf course would spiral downwards.

I was stressed out trying to live up to expectations, lost sight of my love for the game, and contemplated leaving the team.

However, my teammates, specifically the benchwarmers, convinced me otherwise. They knew I would regret looking back on a memory and labeling myself a “quitter”, and with their support, I persevered and never looked back. as I entered my third and fourth year, I transitioned to being the number five player on the team, which had me in constant competition with the sixth for a spot in the travel lineup. Competing against her brought out the verve in me and instilled a sense of tenacity. Spending my first two years as a benchwarmer was definitely a blessing in disguise – the positive attitudes of the other benchwarmers rubbed off on me, and I changed my attitude and approach, which invariably led to less performance pressure and better scores.

There are over 900 student-athletes at UC Berkeley, and everyone has a story to tell and lesson to learn from. Being at a top athletic program has its perks. I share a campus and rub shoulders with olympic athletes, and observe up close, how they train. The amount of dedication they put into their work as both a student and athlete is unparalleled. By that, I am saying that the number of academically gifted athletes I meet here is huge.

Not only are they the best in their sport, but they also excel in the classroom, and go on to pursue careers in medicine, law, and business after graduation. They are able to achieve this by making the most of the resources (academic advisors and free tutoring) provided by the university to do well in the classroom, defying the stereotype of lazy student-athletes.

There is no question that being a student-athlete gives you greater access to university resources compared to the regular student body. There are more networking opportunities and career workshops made available only to athletes, and one of my teammates seized such an opportunity to secure an internship in New York. Job opportunities arise from relationships you build with teammates, coaches, alumni and collegiate staff. My career counselor helped me build my resume, and constantly encouraged me to explore different career paths post graduation, which is why I chose to become an entrepreneur in the sports industry, with the goal of helping as many athletes in asia pursue the U.S. college athletics route.

The SIx STepS To CollegIaTe SporTS In the ensuing issues of golf Vacations, Jo ee will discuss each step of the recruitment process in detail; vastly different from applying through the standard academic route.

1

Step 1 Is collegiate sports right for you?

Know the difference between regular academic and golf application process and the importance of starting early in the recruitment process.

2

Step 2 learn the rules of the game.

3

Step 3 Start the process.

4

Step 4 Building relationships.

5 6

The National Collegiate athletic association (NCaa) is the premier governing body of U.S. college sports, and they set rules to regulate the recruitment process. learn the most important rule everyone needs to know.

Make a checklist - register with the NCaa, create marketing materials, identify universities, initiate contact with college coaches, etc. learn how to manage college coach relationships, and how to increase the visibility of a recruit’s profile to attract and maintain the attention of college coaches.

Step 5 Don’t forget about academics.

Which to take? SaT or aCT? When to take them and how to prepare? Know the importance of academic eligibility as determined by the NCaa.

Step 6 Negotiations and commitments.

recruits and coaches both breathe a sigh of relief when the National letter of Intent is issued and signed. The negotiation process is always tense, so know what to expect before and after sealing the deal.

The people I have met through college golf have taught me many lessons. My teammates demonstrated that sometimes all you need is the right perspective, and everything will fall into place. There are no shortcuts.

Sports will always hold a dear place in my heart, because it not only give youths the opportunity to pursue higher education, they also learn how to identify and harness their determination and motivation to overcome challenges both in and outside the ropes.

Destination Focus

A LittLe town CALLed

Bogor

From rolling grasslands to delicious indigenous cuisine, golf in Indonesia has it all.

by D r. M i c a i a h M e u e r

50 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

Home of the traffic jam, arguably the world’s most beautiful female caddies, and some of the most picturesque golf courses in all of Asia, Indonesia is not a golf destination to be missed.

Amongst this large and sprawling archipelago well known for its pristine beaches, a key destination for golf here is instead set upon the highlands of Bogor, a precinct located 60km south of the capital city of Jakarta. Widely considered a golfer's paradise boasting the most golf courses per square kilometre in Indonesia, 11 to be precise, Bogor combines scenic elevation changes, moderate temperatures, and true Indonesian hospitality.

Once described by former British navigator and founder of the island of Singapore, as ‘a romantic little village’, Bogor is the third largest city in Indonesia with a presidential palace and wordrenowned botanical garden as well as home to a delectable variety of local cuisine.

A trip to Bogor, however, is like any other journey navigating through bustling Jakarta, in the back of a cab practicing the local language (Bahasa) with a driver while waiting on a traffic jam.

Home to an estimated 14 million automobiles and motorized bikes, commuting throughout greater Jakarta requires a true sense of patience and humility.

Like Ho Chi Minh and Cairo, Jakarta's traffic is the true definition of organized chaos, heavily reliant on well-timed car horn noises and highly efficient turning signals.

Upon arriving in Bogor, we check in at the exotic R Hotel at the Rancamaya Resort Complex. The R Hotel offers anything but the ordinary and provides a perfect weekend getaway from Jakarta. Equipped with a world class swim-in-swim-out infinity pool, beautiful open air fire pits and great city views, the resort offers running waterfalls, streams and ponds with cricket serenade included at no additional charge.

Open-air lounge areas and friendly hotel staff create a very relaxed and tension free-feel. If staying at the hotel make sure to enjoy an early morning coffee overlooking the grounds and don't forget to take advantage of the amazingly international breakfast buffet; stocked with deliciousness hailing from four continents. I highly recommend the build your own omelet station.

When ready for golf after a hearty meal, Rancamaya Golf Club is a mere gap wedge away and the hotel does a fine job of coordinating transportation as well as booking of tee times.

A member of the exclusive IMG Prestige collection of golf courses that also includes Angkor Golf Resort in Cambodia, the great Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort in Bulgaria and The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs in New Zealand, Rancamaya is Enjoy your comfortable life in the middle of green. Golf in Rancamaya is selected in this company due to its scenic natural terrain framing both mountains – Salak and Pangrango - in the background and a great lake which provides a central point by which several of the 6,455-yard course’s hole locations are built from.

Built since 1995, it is a testament to good design attributes and a respect for nature that sees very little done to the course since then; its undulating contours presenting challenge and enjoyment to all who has played here.

As a foreigner, understanding your caddie might prove to be a challenge so it may be good to learn a few local words before playing in Indonesia. These, I found to be quite helpful when managing my first 18-holes here at Rancamaya - ‘Bagus’, meaning ‘good’, is one. This word came in very handy because I was always asking my caddie if my tee shot was in good shape or in trouble. Learning how to introduce

52 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

Opening picture: A city with one of the most densely packed population in the world, remarkably offers a tranquil respite for visitors.

BeLOW: Bogor raya golf Klub caddies. right pAge, cLOcKWise FrOM tOp: Bogor raya golf Klub hole 1; Bogor raya golf Klub hole 13; Bogor raya golf Klub entrance; Bogor raya golf Klub hole 10.

oneself is termed as ‘Saya Nama’ Micaiah, or ‘My Name is Micaiah. Otherwise, simply smile and laugh and just remember you're playing golf on a beautiful course, so life is good.

Upon finishing the round, no day would be complete without a stop to the club restaurant and lounge area, overlooking the sprawling setting of mountains, lake and golf. While there, you can expect to enjoy fresh local Indonesian fruit juices, local ceremonial dancing (dancer schedules dependent), and a great classic rock cover band named Free Bird.

Then, there is Klub Golf Bogor Raya. Among the finest facility here and even the rest of Jakarta, Bogor Raya boasts of the largest and quite easily the most opulent changing room in the country. Built in NeoGreco style with waterfall features, relaxation areas and open concept shower, it is certainly worth spending a little more time here to freshen up and unwind. But what makes Klub Golf Bogor Raya famous to locals and even discerning travellers alike is the exceptional, international standards of service and their particularly comely staff.

The golf club has a practice of scouting and hiring young, female staff from the local colleges and handpick each of them, giving them jobs after graduation. Some are trained for front office services, some in the food and beverages department and a select group primed to offer fine advice as caddies on their 18-hole, par 71 golf course set in deeply mature forestry.

Well-manicured conditions, medium to fast greens, and a few blind tee shots, make playability at this Graham Marsh-designed layout very reasonable. Host of the 2015 World Golf Amateur Championships and winner of Best

UsefUl links Tourism indonesia www.indonesia.travel Baltic Tour & Travel http://reservation34.wix.com/balifantasticholiday HoTel in Bogor r Hotel http://rhotelrancamaya.com novotel Bogor www.novotelbogor.com Park royal rainbow Hills www.parkroyalhotels.com/en/hotels-resorts/indonesia/bogor/stay/destination.html golf in Bogor rancayama golf estate www.rancamaya. com/dev/ klub golf Bogor raya http://bogorraya. co.id/kgbr/ rainbow Hills golf Club www.rainbowhillsgolf.com golf in jakarTa riverside golf Course www.riversidegolf.com

54 • G o l f V a c a t i o n s • MaY-JUn 2016

“After golf, no trip is complete without trying a few tasty local treasures. Crystalized in tasty oils and crisped to perfection, the ‘Dirty Duck’ is a local favourite that I would highly suggest.

My crispy duck curiosity took us to Bebek Bengil, home of the Original Crispy Duck since 1990.”

Course in Indonesia in 2003 and 2008, the course offers resort style elevated teeing grounds, overlooking mid-wide range fairways allowing a player to be as aggressive as one desires.

For those wishing to be based here, there is the comfortably luxurious Novotel Bogor Raya hotel sited right next to the golf course and set among the same pristine five-hectare tropical garden setting. Traditional and spacious, there are 147 rooms including five suites, which are designed with local Bangkirai wooden interior and come with LCD TV and 45 satellite channels standard.

The facility also boast of a Convention Centre with 16 function rooms and two ballrooms totaling 1,400 sqm of meeting space with high-speed wireless internet access across the property.

After enjoying Bogor Raya, visit Rainbow Hills Golf Club for a more tranquil experience. Rainbow Hills is a semi-private 27-hole facility designed by the J. Michael Poellot Golf Design Group, and located 10km from downtown Bogor City.

Carved out of tranquil rolling hills, perched in the highlands of Bogor, the course offers stunning panoramic LEFT PAGE FROM TOP: elevation changes. I would describe the course topography Swimming pool view at PARKROYAL Rainbow as a touch of palm trees, straight out of Palm Springs, Hills Bogor; Bogor Raya California, pine tree lined fairways reminiscent of North Golf Klub hole 11. woods, Michigan, meets the steep elevation changes of Lima, Peru.

With its unique geographical makeup, there are three distinctly different 9-hole experiences here. Wideopen landing areas and firm conditions make the course challenging but certainly manageable if proper respect is given. Sharp elevation changes make club selection imperative due to the ball flying further and the deceiving perceptions of distance on the eyes.

The key here is to always trust the yardages - often uphill distances will appear shorter, while downhill distances appear longer; swing easy and well-balanced to ensure solid contact, then marvel and pray.

The Mountain Course is widely considered the signature nine at Rainbow Hills. It offers a nice combination of challenging par 4s, traditional risk-reward par 5s and a true mountain feel. I believe with time to mature, the landscape architecture of Rainbow Hills Golf Club will make it a truly great international golf destination.

Something to look forward to this year is the opening of the Park Royal Rainbow Hills Bogor Resort that will boast a

range of recreational facilities such as spa, fitness centre and conference and event spaces. Managed by the Pan Pacific Group also famous for the Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali property, there is much to be expected from a stay here.

From there, a final stop brought us back into Jakarta where we played Riverside Golf and Country Club.

Located 30km from the central business district, this Greg Norman design is truly a shot-maker’s course and offers a pure test of golf. Tightly tucked greens and challenging gorge carries make up most of the par 3s – three out of four to be exact - forcing players to really go for broke and commit or concentrate on bail out areas and safe misses. Due to the tight nature of the layout and a few deceiving doglegs, keeping the ball in play and avoiding the big numbers is of the utmost importance.

After golf, no trip is complete without trying a few tasty local treasures. Crystalised in tasty oils and crisped to perfection, the ‘Dirty Duck’ is a local favourite that I would highly suggest. My crispy duck curiosity took us to Bebek Bengil, home of the Original Crispy Duck since 1990. If, however, you are craving something lighter and maybe a little more adventurous, make your way down the seafood centre in Teluk, Jakarta.

Nevertheless, be prepared to get dirty because this culinary adventure may force you to literally pick out your dinner. Once you have made your selection – i.e., reaching into a bucket of squirming fish, grabbing your fresh pick and placing it into your own bucket - you're ready for dinner. After dinner I would suggest indulging your sweet tooth and exploring Kelapa Gading Mall, Jakarta's largest mall.

Originally built as five separate malls, this achievement of modern architecture offers a labyrinth of beautiful consumerism. Equipped with a never-ending list of eateries, boutiques, and the season’s must-have fashion trends, the mall is a great place to get your dessert fix or indulge in some retail therapy. A perfect ending to a wonderful day.

After spending some splendid days exploring Bogor and some parts of Jakarta, it is time to head home. With the help of our friends at Baltic Tour & Travel, this journey along with the entire trip was made stress-free and that says a lot considering the immense traffic that circulates this metropolis.

Choice Resorts I lived in Miami in the early 90’s and went to the Jim McLean School at the

Doral way back when I was a mere hacker. Some might say I still am! But the Doral was the place to go in the ‘Magic City’ or ‘Little Cuba’ as it’s also known not just because of the Jim McLean School but mostly because of the Blue Monster, the resort’s redoubtable main course.

Built by Dick Wilson in 1961, The Blue Monster garnered a menacing reputation as one of the toughest of its era playing host to the PGA Tour from 1962 to 2006 and then the WGC-Cadillac Championship as it still does. But when I was getting to know it, The Doral was down at the heel, had lost its shine and was in serious need of some love. And boy, did it get it - in the shape of none other that present day Presidential hopeful Donald J. Trump.

I had the occasion to interview ‘The Donald’ when he opened his course in Aberdeen, Scotland, dubbed Trump International Golf Links, and having had a half hour of his undivided intention, excuse me, attention, it has been all the more interesting to watch his progress. As an instance, on the day he announced his bid for the US Presidency, we were teeing it up on his new Ferry Point course in New York City.

Not long before that, I had been commissioned to make a video on The Lodge at Doonbeg in the West of Ireland and they immediately announced they were going bust - and that we would not get paid. Along comes ‘The Donald’ and buys the place. And we still have not been paid.

Then he snapped up one of my all time favourites, Turnberry Resort and Spa, now simply termed, Trump Turnberry. Everywhere I go, up pops, ‘The Donald’.

And now that I have finally moved back to the USA – he is running for President.

The thing I have to admit though when it comes to golf properties - something Trump is especially keen on - he has a very good habit of substantially improving them. And this is exactly what he has done with The Doral, now officially known as Trump National Doral Miami.

Roberto Borgatti, my favourite Floridian and golf instructor, and I strolled into the Doral’s reception at around 5am having decided first to have a night out on the town in Miami. I have to quickly interject that Miami has come on leaps and bounds since I lived there. The place is thriving, classy, international and vibrant; all the things it once wasn’t. It was thrilling to check out such colourful international restaurants, clubs and cafes then charge around town looking for the best Latino nightclubs.

So, feeling a bit bleary from our night out and with a tee time at 8.30am, it was difficult to identify The Doral I once knew. But then they have spent US$21 million transforming it so perhaps I was justified in not finding my bearings very well.

A warm-up round on the Red Course soon cleared the head and in spite of a certain lack of conviction for the initial holes we were off, up and running.

The Red is reputed to be the easiest of The Doral’s four courses, built at the same time as the Blue but perhaps more with lady golfers in mind. It’s shorter and a fairly typical Florida layout with water on almost every hole. It’s a lot of fun, good target golf where you plot your way into position and then have fun attacking the greens; the ideal, not-too-taxing warm-up round.

Famed for its Blue course, also dubbed, ‘The Monster’, Doral is firmly set as Miami’s ultimate golfing destination.

Wo r d s by dav i d J W h y t e

miami doral

trump national

“The thing I have to admit though when it comes to golf properties - something Trump is especially keen on - he has a very good habit of substantially improving them. And this is exactly what he has done with The Doral, now officially known as Trump National Doral Miami.”

PREVIOUS PAGE OPENING PICTURE: Red Tiger Course Hole 14. lEfT PAGE, ClOCKWISE fROm TOP lEfT: Blue monster Course - Hole 5; Blue monster Course - Hole 18 with Clubhous; Blue monster Course - Hole 10; BlT Prime, Trump National Doral’s signature restaurant; The New Villa Deluxe Guestroom.

We were on a flying visit so that evening for me at least was all about getting some food and rest (Roberto had other ideas) before taking on the fabled Blue Monster in the morning. Along with the four golf courses, Trump National Doral Miami offers four restaurants; BLT Prime with indoor and outdoor seating and views across the Blue Monster course, a modern American steakhouse also serving nice, fresh seafood; Champions Bar & Grill, more of a sports bar and especially good at cocktails and a sociable ambience and The Palm Grill for simple ceviches and pressed sandwiches. And the Marketplace Cafes for beverages or pastries.

His patronage has hugely improved the buildings the rooms are all excellent and as we found out, the golf has been immensely upgraded. It seemed to be a useful facility for the many Miami-based companies that use it to entertain their staff and clientele - as there were when we visited.

We were joined by Scottish Golf Writer David Wishart and hired just one caddy, ideal when you’re a threesome riding on golf carts. The Blue Monster has had a complete overhaul since I was last here and the difference is evident from the get-go. Olympic course designer Gil Hanse was brought in to do the refurbishment at the same time as he was working on the Rio 2016 Olympic course.

The high standard of agronomy and green keeping goes without saying but the new Blue Monster now flows with a maturity and grace that the old version did not possess. To all intents and purposes, this is a brand new golf course and an exceptionally fine one at that. Not nearly as brutal as I remember The Blue from before and you can plot your way around here comfortably, making good shots into position and reaping rewards on the approaches. From the tips, I’m sure it’s a different matter but for us off the white tees, it was a strong and steady challenge that just kept getting better.

Trump and his team realised they had a great opportunity with the old Blue and seized it. With 300plus acres to work with, there was room to manoeuvre and yet the changes are subtle; most holes are in the same place but the bunkering and greens have been transformed to challenge the modern game.

The most obvious changes are seen on Hole 15, a par 3 that now has a carry entirely over water to a peninsula green. The next is a reachable par 4 with water stretching down the left side and causing a sense of foreboding from the boxes but with enough room for the good, steady drive. And that’s what I like about this new Doral.

Instead of blatantly threatening, it has been modified to cater for middle tee players who can enjoy the challenge whilst being rewarded for good, steady play.

I was surprised and delighted how well I played which is more a mark of my past notion of the place as well as the well-considered improvements.

On the 18th, one of the great finishing holes, you are bound to feel a bit anxious with all the water in view to the left. Roberto’s a good man on these occasions and he reminded us how to take on perhaps the biggest challenge of the day.

“Slow everything down on shots like these and maintain composure,” he reminded. “Visualise where you want your tee shot to land and then do it.” It pays to stay right a touch anyhow as that’s the approach angle you want. The shot into the green can be equally daunting with a line of big bunkers hugging the right side and water in front. There’s no bail out, it’s all or nothing. Again what a great finishing hole and the closing statement from what is now an exceptional golf course.

As far as the other courses, we didn’t have time to play them. There used to be five in all but one has been sold off leaving the Golden Palm and the Silver Fox if you want an extra outing.

Also, work on the new spa was just getting started so we did not get a chance to enjoy it but it should open this spring, much refreshed, re-conceptualised as they say here in the States with a “ravishing menu of groovy treatments”.

Designed by Ivanka Trump, Donald and Ivana’s lovely looking daughter. Ivanka is Executive Vice President of Development & Acquisitions at the Trump organisation and is involved with all aspects of the company’s real estate and hotel management initiatives.

She is also behind such enterprises as Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry. The Ivanka Trump Lifestyle Collection also includes fragrance, footwear, handbags, outerwear and eyewear collections.

The 48 Spa suites will be adorned in shades of ocean blue, furnished with striking gold-leaf accents and modern amenities providing the ultimate in plush relaxation. Ivanka’s Spa will be the final touch of the long term US$250 million transformation of this property. trumphotelcollection.com

Choice Resorts

ImperIal Klub Golf A stirring mix of fine service and stimulating golf.

By Da r ryl W e e

When the settlers went west to discover their fortunes in the Americas some half a millennium or so ago, I did not expect my journey to the west of Jakarta late last year to similarly unveil a hidden gem. Only, it wasn’t gold that was found but quite astonishingly, a glorious find in the form of the Imperial Klub Golf course instead.

Just 40 minutes from the airport or central Jakarta, depending on traffic, the Imperial Klub Golf is located in the extraordinarily self-contained new town development of Lippo Karawaci. Arguably the best course west of Jakarta, this club is open to the public and it sees a consistent flow of golfers.

I was lucky that during one of my business trips, my friend Michael Riady invited me to play at Imperial.

It was very interesting to be introduced to his morning golfing friends, which included guys who would be at the club by 5:30am to play 18 holes before they start work. It was with Michael and his buddies that I got to know the course and the intricacies that were created to challenge golfers.

Created as the central point of the Karawaci satellite town, you get an idea of the quality of the course as you enter the club. Beautifully landscaped, one would be forgiven to think that they were in a private club in Bali instead of being at a public course just outside Jakarta.

“Created as the central point of the Karawaci satellite town, you get an idea of the quality of the course as you enter the club. Beautifully landscaped, one would be forgiven to think that they were in a private club in Bali instead of being at a public course just outside Jakarta.”

The clubhouse, which was recently renovated, was very well laid out and appointed. The lockers were very comfortable and spacious; and you can also enjoy a post round massage to ruminate over the course of play that just ended. If wanted to warm up, and needed to work on the swing, the driving range is attached directly behind the changing rooms. With ever-friendly staff available when required, you will find that you can order drinks and snacks while you practice as well.

Created by British designer, Desmond Muirhead, the club’s 6,429-metre, 18-hole championship golf course has been constructed to blend essential Indonesian images into ‘a large conceptual sculpture’, as described by the club’s official website, with each hole having its own identity, name and individuality.

Those who are used to playing golf on flat courses around Jakarta will be challenged at the difference at Imperial. Not only will you find that the course is not flat in anyway, but it was also very well-maintained. The greens had just been hollow-tinned earlier that week but the roll was still true with speeds over 9 on the stimp.

Considering the undulations and slopes on the green, it is more fortunate that it isn’t running in its normal speed, of which I was told, to average above 10.

One of the first things I noticed when I played was the use of the terrain to create elevations and undulations throughout the course. When you land in the middle of the fairway, I found that I still had to contend with slight undulations for my next shot. It was fun, as I had to constantly think and I found that the different lies added to the challenge for my approach shots.

When Muirhead designed each hole to have its own identity, he succeeded. His design incorporates the natural flow of the land, whilst creating uniqueness to each hole. With multiple tees, this course is playable at all

OPENING PICTURE FROM PREVIOUS PAGE: Imperial Klub Golf Hole 15.

BELOW FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Hole 4; Hole 5; Imperial Klub Golf Clubhouse.

RIGHT PAGE: Aerial view of Imperial Klub Golf.

golfing levels. What I found most enjoyable was that each hole provided a different opportunity in course management and shot making. Each hole has a unique identity and having the pleasure of playing the course two days in a row revealed to me the pleasure of taking it on in different ways, discovering things that weren’t found the first time around.

I found the front nine a little easier than the back nine, but not by much. The first few holes were a gentle warm up for what is to come. Clearly, one of the signature holes for the course is the par 4,353 yards 4th known as “Pulau”. Golfers can choose to drive to an island that is situated in the centre of a lake, or drive to the large fairway that skirts around it. Determining what shot you would choose largely depends on how accurate your drives are for the day.

For the longer hitters, I have been told that some try to drive over the lake to the front of the green so that they are left with a chip and put for birdie. Since we did not have anyone chasing us so early in the morning, all of us tried to smack a drive towards the green. Alas, we all discovered that we were not as long as we thought we were.

The other very unique hole was the par 3, 15-yard 5th known as “Temple”. This hole has an island green surrounded by a lake; however the designer was kind enough to create a massive sand trap that encircles the green. Geometrically shaped, the bunker, together with the oval green is very aesthetically pleasing even though it is fearfully menacing. The hole still requires accurate distance control and direction, but at least you have a little leeway with the bunker.

I found the back nine filled with holes that have very different characteristics but come beautifully together. Featuring holes that have names like

“The Imperial Klub Golf experience is truly a refreshing surprise.

Not just because the course is outstanding from a maintenance and design perspective, but also because of the overall guest experience at the club.

Unlike some of the courses around Jakarta that requires membership or reciprocal arrangements to get in, this club is open to the public and welcomes anyone who wants to play.”

“Komodo” and “Madonna”, you really have to come to the club to fully get a sense of what the designer has created to challenge golfers. I personally love the par 4, 445ys hole 15 named “Kebun Raya”.

From the tee box, golfers are faced with a blind tee shot where the only direction you get from the caddy is to keep the ball right. If the tee shot is not daunting enough, the fairway on this hole is a little more undulating than the others and the approach shot is to a green that is very narrow. On the first day, I had a gentle uphill lie that made the approach very easy. On the second day, I had a downhill left-to-right shot that made the approach much more difficult and the irony was that I landed in the same area on both days. The green is protected on the left and behind by water, so your approach shot needs to be spot on. My warning on this hole is to focus on the shot and not be taken by the beauty of how the green is framed by the lake and an old colonial bridge beside it.

What makes this club so special is not just the facilities or the wonderfully designed holes. It is the software of the club, which is made up of its staff and their culture of service. I was personally delighted to see a group of young caddies being brought around the course, so that they were trained on the characteristics of each hole. I also found that the caddies we had really loved working at the club and there was a strong family feel with everyone I interacted with. Many of the staff members had been with the club for many years, and for the new joiners, they told me they felt very lucky to be part of this golfing family.

LEFT PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Imperial Klub Golf - Hole 18; Hole 5; Hotel Aryaduta Lippo; the swimming pool.

BELOW: Michael Riady and Darryl Wee.

The Imperial Klub Golf experience is truly a refreshing surprise. Not just because the course is outstanding from a maintenance and design perspective, but also because of the overall guest experience at the club. Unlike some of the courses around Jakarta that requires membership or reciprocal arrangements to get in, this club is open to the public and welcomes anyone who wants to play.

And fortunately, for those looking to experience this delightful golf club, the closely associated Hotel Aryaduta Lippo is a mere 15-minutes drive away and only a half hour from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and Jakarta. A fine luxury stay, it also contains a full service Aryaduta Country Club for guests who want to spend time on other recreational activities apart from golf.

Thereafter, move to Hotel Aryaduta Jakarta for a view of bustling city life, shopping and dining. Located only five minutes away from the main entertainment areas in Jakarta’s business district, it has 304 guestrooms including 68 Aryaduta Signature Club rooms and 27 modernly appointed suites, all guestrooms, meeting rooms, restaurants, and public areas in Hotel Aryaduta Jakarta now are provided by free charges of Internet access.

A trip worth remembering? More like one that is worth returning to. www.imperialklubgolf.com www.aryaduta.com

Resort Golf Academy

Macdonald Spey Valley Golf & country club A magnificent Resort and Championship Golf Course at the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Words & Pic tu r es By dav id J W hy te

Speyside is one of Scotland’s most stunningly

beautiful regions. The sylvan Spey Valley is made even more attractive by the towering mountains that surround it; namely, the grey Monadhliaths to the west and the striking Cairngorms south and east. Throughout the world, the game of golf has many stunning settings but Speyside is surely one of the finest.

Set against this backdrop, the highland resort town of Aviemore stands at the centre of all this splendour and has for a long time been the summer and winter sports capital of Scotland, and indeed the United Kingdom. There is much to do here at any time of the year. Besides golf, there is canoeing, white-water rafting,

hillwalking, fishing, bird-watching, pony-trekking and even Haggis Hunting - well perhaps only for the more gullible. There is a good range of shopping in Aviemore’s town centre and a host of appealing options for food and drink along with lively entertainment in or near Aviemore town.

At the heart of all of this sits Macdonald Aviemore Resort, which has been here since the 1960’s. With a fairly recent £5 million overhaul, the resort is fully updated with four luxurious hotels along with 18 woodland lodges, numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, a cinema, a leisure centre and spa; all you need really to make a wonderful Highland visit.

In 2006, Macdonalds added an 18-hole championship golf course. They could not have picked a better site.

Designed by Dave Thomas, the Spey Valley course occupies a stunning heathland setting with the Spey River running at its edge. Complete with near constant views of the Cairngorms, the track passes through Old Scots pine forest with acres of heather moorland helping to define fairways and frame greens. The River Spey makes a modest appearance for part of the front nine before the course turns onto a wider, more undulating plateau lined with avenues of pine, silver birch and endless banks of purple heather.

After a successful amateur career representing Scotland, Great Britain and Ireland on numerous occasions, Spey Valley’s director of golf and head teaching professional, Murray Urquhart spent four years in South Carolina playing in NCAA Division 1 before turning professional and competing all over the world.

In 2003 he played a full year on the European Tour and in 2005 qualified to play in the British Open at St Andrews. Murray has had numerous wins on the Scottish Region PGA circuit finishing runner up at the Scottish Professional Championship in 2001 at Gleneagles and winning the Northern Open at Skibo Castle in 2007.

As a golf instructor, he is one of Scotland’s leading lights and appears regularly in instructional articles in a number of magazines and websites.

MAIN IMAGE: Spey Valley Golf & Country Club.

BELOW: Clubhouse and driving range at Spey Valley; Macdonald Aviemore Resort.

Murray’s Teaching PhilosoPhy “As a teacher, we see all different types of players here.

One thing that’s clear to me is the need to work within each individual’s capabilities instead of trying to impose ‘a method’ on to them. Golf’s a tough enough game without making it more difficult.

“I’m a big believer in working on the basics. A sound grip is important - as is the correct posture. Ninety percent of golfers who come to see me don’t have the correct posture. So if we can get them in line with the basics, i.e. holding the club correctly and standing to the ball correctly, all of a sudden the things we try to do with their swing become a lot easier.

“One thing I think that applies to everyone, especially amateur golfers, is that the golf swing very much starts from the ground up. I like to encourage players to focus on the downward pressure through their legs so that they are feeling the motion through your feet as opposed to thinking too much about what your hands are doing, what your body does and where the clubhead is. Think about feeling the motion of your turn through your feet, legs and hips because if you get them working well, the rest will automatically follow.”

Resort Golf Academy

froM the Ground up

Good footwork is essential when trying to build a balanced, controlled swing. Here are some ideas to help you understand the role of the ‘lower half’ in the golf swing.

1

2

By Murr ay u rquh art

Ball PosiTion and PosTure To use your legs effectively, your ball should be positioned consistently opposite the left side of your chest (if you are right handed). If your ball gets too far back in the middle of your stance it makes it difficult to use your legs effectively.

Additionally, try turning your front foot out about 30 degrees; this will help you turn your hips through impact.

Too often we see golfers with a slumped posture because their hips are pulled too far forward. Take your normal address position, and without a club in hand, feel like you push each hipbone back. This makes you push your rear end out more into the correct position. The lower spine is now in a position which allows your hips to turn freely.

Balance

Good balance throughout your swing comes from effective footwork. The following gives you an idea of how a balanced golf swing should feel through your feet. at address: your weight should be equally balanced towards the balls of your feet.

Down Swing: The first move down should be initiated by the left knee pulling your weight down into the ball of your front foot.

Top of swing: as you move to the top of your swing, the subtle turning of your right hip shifts your weight toward your right heel (be sure to maintain your right knee flex as you swing back, as close as possible to its original position at set up.)

Follow-Through: Keep turning your hips and shoulders to the end of your swing so your weight is distributed into the outside of your left heel.

The best way of developing this motion into your swing is to make these movements in slow motion without a club, keeping all your focus on feeling the movement down through your feet. It’s a great way of improving your balance.

3

roll The FeeT

Here’s a little drill to help you understand how your feet work through impact.

instep at address: set up as normal but with a ball positioned tight to your instep of your rear foot next to the ball of your foot.

instep during downswing: Make your backswing and then as you start down, make a deliberate effort to roll your instep of your right foot to the target, moving the ball a couple of inches toward the target.

This drill is a great way of helping you understand the importance of initiating movements from the ground up.

4

using The legs

a good drill to help you use your legs more in your swing is to place another ball four inches in front of the ball you are addressing.

Knock away the ball you are addressing and then hit the front ball from your original set up position. your instinct should kick in and make you realize you have to drive your legs to pull your body up to the front ball, in order to make contact.

For more information, visit: www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonald-aviemore-resort/golf/golf-academy

Style Vacation

A modern photogrAphic rendition of A JAck London cLAssic. words: Benny teo photogrApher: JoeL Low styList: Jerome AwAsthi

On Him DiOR HOmmE Rose printed pullover and pants On HER DiOR Side stitched detail dress

On Her DVF Gold mesh dress HerMeS Cuff

On HiM BOSS Leather biker Jacket and leather boots HerMeS Leather pants MAJeSTY, TrAnSVieW Weave golf bag

MAJeSTY, TrAnSVieW Gold tinted golf clubs and weave golf bag

As the story goes, Buck, a domesticated St Bernard-Scotch Collie was captured and sold as a sled dog in the Northern Wilderness of America’s West Coast, learning and transforming from a house pet to the leader of a wild pack. A tented vacation in Africa’s wild presents an adventure that similar transforms mindsets in the modern man. From the tribes of the Maasai Mara in Kenya’s Ngorongoro plains, to Kruger National Park in South Africa, or even gorilla watching in Uganda, it is an experience not to forget.

On Him HERmES Long knit coat, cotton pants and silk scarf BOSS Leather boots mAJESTY, TRAnSViEW Weave golf bag in background

On Her HerMeS White coat dress ALDO Gold statement necklace and cuff

On Him BOTTEGA VEnETA Green double breasted knit, cotton tee and wool track pants ZARA Tartan poncho On HER DVF multi-coloured mix fur jacket, halter jumpsuit ALDO necklace

PHOTOGRAPHER: JOEL LOw STyLiST: JEROmE AwASTHi STyLinG ASSiSTAncE: DEREk JOu mAkEuP: FiOn TAn uSinG ySL HAiR: ASH LOi, ARTiSAn uSinG ScHwARZkOPF PROFESSiOnAL mODELS: SHin wOO/ LOOquE & LETiciA/ AVE SPEciAL THAnkS TO inROADS cOncEPTS PTE LTD FOR THE uSE OF THEiR SHOwROOm

Golf in Africa is a combination of pristine fairways and greens juxtaposed with 'The Call of the Wild’.

In South Africa’s Leopard’s Creek Golf Club, meet Harry the Hippo, who lives in the dam between Holes 15 and 16 and at Kenya’s Sigona Golf Club, the great Beisa Oryx can be observed for those fortunate or observant enough to spot it. Through it all, remember the embodiment of all that is stylish and fashionable, if nothing, just in case a roving photographer catches you soaked in the vicissitudes of life in the wild.

collection Fashion

SIRIVANNAVARI

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 COLLECTION HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana unveils SIRIVANNAVARI Spring/Summer 2016 Collection inspired by the Art History Timeline: The origin of Romanticism to the glorified era of Impressionism with a touch of Versailles’ surroundings.

HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, SIRIVANNAVARI Creative Director said ‘I started this collection by sketching a picture at Chateau de Versailles, Paris. I sat on the bench and breathed in the ambience including Petit Trianon, Le Jardin de Versaille and Le Bassin d'Apollon. This collection is influenced by the art of Romanticism and Impressionism particularly the works of the legendary artists like Monet and Renoir.

‘Pattern and Silhouettes are very crucial.

The ‘Tulip’ pattern is the signature of my creation in this collection. Fundamentally, pattern is the most significant element of dressmaking. That’s why I prioritise pattern making as the heart of Maison SIRIVANNAVARI, said HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana.

The Spring/Summer 2016 women collection consists of 48 looks. The showstopper starts from the stunning structures and silhouettes such as the tulip dress, the rounded-shoulder jacket with

the geometric pattern, the tunic dress with the asymmetrical drapery at the body line and the deconstructed jacket.

The event was stormed by the A-List celebrities and fashionistas who came to show their support to the designer. The guests included Nualphan Lamsam, Chanadda Chirathivat, Ploy Cherman, Kullawit Laosuksri, Polpat Asavapraphaand, Chatbenja Nandhabhiwat. Undeniably, the collection was amazing and the show was stunning. In addition, another talent of the princess that noone witnessed before has arisen. For the first time ever, the princess co-produced the original score for her fashion show. The music of the night was performed by Bangkok Symphony Orchestra. This was another big surprise to the audience in the Royal Paragon Hall.

“Even though there is an array of details in this collection, each piece still clearly represents the signature design of SIRIVANNAVARI. I wish everyone can appreciate the true essence of the brand” the princess concluded.

The Spring/Summer 2016 collection of SIRIVANNAVARI is available at the SIRIVANNAVARI boutique on the 1st floor of Siam Paragon Shopping Center.

collection drink

LOS VASCOS

A piOneering AdVenture

Grape vines were planted in the north of Chile in the 16th century, in the wake of the Spanish conquistadors. Production expanded rapidly and the country was soon exporting to Peru, challenging imported wines from Spain. The first French grapes were planted in the Cañeten Valley of Colchagua in 1850 but when phylloxera ravaged Europe’s vineyards, Chile’s production increased dramatically.

Vineyards went from 9,000 hectares in 1870 to 40,000 hectares in 1900. The first exports of wines to Europe took place in 1877.

Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) took over the Los Vascos estate (Los Vascos meaning The Basques, in honour of its Basque origins) in 1988. At the time, the property extended to some 2,200 hectares, of which 220 hectares were planted with vines. The pioneering ambition of DBR in Chile was above all the result of extensive research into the potential of local wines.

Many properties were visited and many wines were tasted before choosing Los

Vascos, because of its location near the ocean and its exceptional soil. Along with ideal weather conditions, Los Vascos benefits from intense exposure to the sun, adequate water sources, semi-arid soils and little risk of frost. At an average of 130 metres above sea level and at just 40 kilometres from the Pacific Ocean, the microclimate of Viña Los Vascos has everything to produce fine wines.

For the wines, a period of transition followed, the grapes from the young vines abounded with adolescent vigour and during the early 2000s this wild “force of nature” had to be tamed in the winemaking process. Gradually the young Cabernet Sauvignon vines settled down as they matured and techniques evolved as our understanding of the terroir increased. In parallel, a detailed analysis of the terroirs with older vines enabled their potential to be identified and the Grand Vins to be developed: the Grande Reserve and, from 1999, LE DIX. The range also expanded with a Sauvignon Blanc selected from

wines produced in the Casablanca Valley, a Chardonnay and a Rosé, and then the Los Vascos Carmenere Grande Reserve.

The late 2000s marked a new stage for Los Vascos, with a new generation of technicians at the helm, and the arrival at maturity of the vines planted in the 90s.

The knowledge of the terroirs accumulated over 20 years has been used to refine the qualitative approach in the vineyard and in the winemaking. The decision to adopt large-scale drip irrigation and to grow more grape varieties have also brought new possibilities to the expression, balance and complexity of all the wines in the range.

Los Vascos can be more confident than ever about the strength of its terroirs.

However, the pioneering spirit continues, and the pursuit of excellence requires passion and time. New high potential plots have been identified in the foothill regions: the technical team is already paving the way for the Grands Vins of tomorrow with new planting projects to meet demand.

collection Tech

VERTU

THE NEW SIGNATURE TOUCH FOR BENTLEY Vertu has launched the new Signature

The phone also features the new Lost Phone service, which allows owner to remotely lock and wipe the phone if lost or stolen.

Following on from the success of the previous Vertu Signature S for Bentley, Vertu’s made-to-order option has been made available on this new model. This allows each Signature Touch for Bentley to be personalized with the choice of eight leather colours and 16 stitching options.

Touch for Bentley; a powerful, modern smartphone inspired by the brand’s long-term partnership with the foremost manufacturer of British luxury motor cars.

Featuring two-tone Beluga and Hotspur Bentley leather, with Hotspur stitching, the phone also features knurled side keys, a unique pillow rail and sound bar and a 3D Bentley logo.

A unique Bentley app delivers exclusive content to customers, bringing the world of Bentley alive through tailored events, VIP access and special features designed to integrate the Signature Touch with the full range of Bentley cars.

Based on Vertu’s latest, highperformance smartphone, Signature Touch for Bentley balances high performance technology, dedicated services and peerless build quality and materials and boasts Vertu’s most vibrant display ever. It is Vertu’s highest ever technical performance smartphone. Android 5.1 Lollipop promises improved speed and clarity and Vertu’s full portfolio of services, which comprise dedicated Concierge as well as Vertu LIFE and Vertu CERTAINLY packages ensure a seamless user experience.

The Vertu Boutique is on the 2nd floor of Siam Paragon Tel. 02 129 4488 and Gaysorn Shopping Centre Tel. 02 656 1126

collection Time

DIAMOND FURY

THE SPIRIT OF REBELLION In 2016, an interesting suite

of horological developments highlights the disruptive ideas, independent attitude and savoir-faire that set Audemars Piguet apart as a dynamic force in watchmaking today.

The Manufacture’s different thinking is illuminated in a series of designs that break the rules of horological tradition known as Diamond Fury – The Spirit of Rebellion.

Primal, powerful and provocative, Audemars Piguet unveils Diamond Fury this year, a Haute Joaillerie masterpiece bristling with attitude and a rebellious spirit, the next series of very popular Diamond Punk which won the GPHG 2015 prize for the best jewellery piece.

Diamond Fury engineered in diamonds and white gold, stalks the Haute Joaillerie landscape like a shimmering force of nature, perfected the underside of Diamond Fury’s jewelled scales with the same care as its enigmatic outer shell by Audemars Piguet’s expert designers, engineers and jewellers.

Yet, its naturally tough form is deftly engineered to slink around the wrist. Diamond Fury’s mysterious character is also revealed via a secret panel which, when touched, subtly unclips to reveal the diamondpaved dial beneath.

Diamond Fury, one of the Audemars Piguet’s masterpieces, crafted with unique skill from Le Brassus. It took passion, perfection, over 1,500 hours to emerge as a fusion of the singular character, unconventional thinking and cutting-edge technology that define Audemars Piguet today. This comes with Caliber 2601 movement in 40 mm 18-carat white gold case, 206 brilliantcut diamonds (0.54 carats) on the 18-carat white gold dial, plus another impressive 4,635 brilliant-cut diamonds (25.60 carats) in the case and bracelet.

To keep on breaking the rules with Audemars Piguet, the hands are also made from "blackened gold" which can be achieved in a unique way. Available by made to order only at the price of THB 22,319,300.

collection Time

IWC

SCHAFFHAUSEN CELEBRATES ITS TENTH SPECIAL EDITION WITH LAUREUS Schaffhausen, 19 April 2016 – IWC

Schaffhausen presents the Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Edition “Laureus Sport for Good Foundation” to celebrate the Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony in Berlin. The timepiece, limited to 1,500 watches, marks the tenth special edition to be launched by the Schaffhausen-based luxury watchmaker as part of its commitment to Laureus Sport for Good. The winning design from last year’s IWC children’s drawing competition is engraved on the case back. This special engraving is a reminder that a portion of the proceeds from sales goes to Laureus to help support its social projects.

Sport eliminates differences, imparts self-confidence and promotes team spirit: this is the motto of Laureus Sport for Good, an organization that believes in the integrative force of sport, harnessing its potential to advance social change and provide more promising future prospects for disadvantaged children and adolescents. Since 2006, IWC Schaffhausen has been supporting the foundation on an annual basis by launching a special watch in aid of the cause. “Our cooperation with Laureus forms one of the cornerstones of our commitment to social responsibility.

The foundation, and its ambassadors from the world of professional sport, are tirelessly and passionately dedicated to improving society.

I am proud that we have been able to support this important and necessary work for the tenth year running with a special edition”, summarizes Georges Kern, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen.

This year, the timepiece of choice is a model from the Portofino family.

The Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Edition “Laureus Sport for Good Foundation” (Ref. IW459006) is limited to 1,500 watches worldwide. The dial and the moon phase display feature the unmistakable Laureusblue, lending the timepiece an extraordinary plasticity and depth. The hour indices are complemented by 12 diamonds, which combine with the blue alligator leather strap from Santoni to give the timepiece a very elegant overall look. With a case measuring 37 millimetres in diameter, this watch is also suitable

for watch lovers with slender wrists. It is driven by the automatic 35800-calibre movement with a power reserve of 42 hours.

collection Bespoke

UNORTHODOX BEAUTY Leica unveils the world’s first full matte brass finish M Series for leading luxury specialist watch retailer The Hour Glass.

By M ic hel l e yee

If one were to make a list of the virtues of

brass, the list would undoubtedly be one of great length. The metal, which is composed primarily of copper and zinc, has always been intrinsic to the world of musical instruments and home accessories for its durability, corrosion resistant benefits and decorative qualities. With a slew of attributes, it’s easy to see why German technical camera manufacturer Leica chose this stunning metal for its latest limited edition camera.

Created specially for luxury specialist watch retailer The Hour Glass, the exclusive Leica M-P “Brass Edition 35” bears the iconic design of the M series, but instead of a black chrome finish, the entire camera frame sports a full matte brass finish.

This special edition camera is fitted with the Leica Summicron-M 1:2/35mm ASPH lens and boasts lacquered brass and buttons — a first for any Leica camera. The lens and a classic round lens hood are also decked out in pure brass finishing with clear lacquer for added protection.

Limited to only 35 sets worldwide, each camera bears a limited edition number along with The Hour Glass symbol imprinted on the hotshoe and lens, and is housed in a special box handcrafted in Germany.

Sharing his thoughts on this gorgeous camera, Mr Michael Tay, Group Managing Director of The Hour Glass says, “It started out as an idea inspired by the concept of luxury in its most authentic and artisanal form two years ago. We are proud and thrilled to see this project come to fruition. We wanted an object which is pure and unadulterated hence the beauty of brass in its original form was born. Brass embodies the glamour of gold in an understated way.”

StockISt Leica is at Raffles Hotel Arcade, ION Orchard, Mandarin Gallery and VivoCity.

Available exclusively in Singapore at Malmaison by The Hour Glass, the exquisite Leica M-P “Brass Edition 35” retails at S$35,000. www.leica-store.sg

collection Bespoke

MECHANICAL MARVEL Luxury Swiss watchmaker unveils its first ever Mechanical Fountain Pen at SIHH 2016 featuring the brand’s exceptional watchmaking technology.

By M ic hel l e yee

The RMS05 mechanical fountain pen retails at $105,000 and is available exclusively at www.richardmille.com.

At first glance, the RMS05, which is developed by Richard Mille’s movement creators, looks just like an exquisitely crafted writing instrument, but it is much more than that. The result of four years of extensive research and development, the RMS05 is a high quality mechanical fountain pen that features top-notch materials and cutting-edge technology.

In fact, what sets Richard Mille’s mechanical fountain pen apart is that it uses watchmaking technology to deploy the nib. Housed inside a sapphire container, the movement, which is based on a minute repeater, is made mostly of titanium and has 12 jewels to keep the rhodium-plated gears moving smoothly.

The push-button at the end of the pen triggers the baguette movement fitted with a recoil escapement and a barrel. This escapement, traditionally used in striking watches, releases the head of the nib within seconds in one harmonious mechanical motion.

Replacing the cap raises the barrel in a fraction of second via a complex mechanism running through the body of the pen. At the very same moment, the nib delicately retracts, ready to emerge again at the merest touch of the push-button. The pen’s creators also worked on an ingenious method of removing the nib to insert an ink cartridge without damaging the smooth functioning of the mechanism and the pen.

The whole thing is finished by hand to the same specifications as Richard Mille’s watch movements. Watch enthusiasts will also appreciate that the sapphire container features a see-through glass, which has been applied with anti-glare treatment, allowing users to see the actual caliber at work.

On the aesthetics front, the RMS05 is equally unrivalled – the body is made of a dark gray NTPT carbon, a special composite that’s lightweight, strong, and has a distinctive surface pattern reminiscent of Damascus steel. In short, Richard Mille’s latest creation is a mechanical marvel that is set to win the hearts of watch connoisseurs and collectors of gentlemanly accessories. www.richardmille.com

Collection Style

FJ Freestyle

The revolutionary shoe from FootJoy. Absolutely.

By J o s h To r in o

Developing a new breed of golf shoes for players who enjoy freedom of movement, FJ’s latest FreeStyle footwear will rock golfers’ socks off. Unique technologies have been incorporated to deliver exceptional traction, mobility and comfort to all players.

From a series of testings, they determined that some players benefit from shoes that provide structure and stability, while the latter prefers to be able to move freely throughout their swing – which aids them in generating more power through the ball.

A key technology in this radically new category of golf shoes, F.R.O.G.S, also termed FootJoy’s Revolutionary Outsole Grip System, outsole is constructed to provide the utmost cushioning and maximum mobility for these golfers.

Inspired by the Red-Eyed Tree Frog, an arboreal hylid native to Neotropical rainforests where it ranges from Mexico, through Central America, to Colombia, and emulating their ability to grip and be docile, FJ has integrated these into the texture and functional elements of the outsole – creating something truly unique.

Said to be the ultimate combination of both form and function, FJ’s Freestyle allows for natural movement throughout the swing without compromising exceptional traction, mobility and comfort. F.R.O.G.S Technology features a super-flexible new SoftMax translucent outsole that provides players with a softer feel and extra grip and a new midsole compound, the FTF 3.0 which is also the company’s softest and most comfortable to date.

Available at all authorised FootJoy outlets in five colour combinations, they are available in both laces S$280 and BOA S$310 lacing system.

Key Attributes • Superior Traction with F.R.O.G.S. outsole constructed utilising SoftMax molded translucent rubber delivering soft cushioning and complete mobility.

• New FTFTM 3.0 midsole compound, FootJoy’s softest yet, delivers outstanding underfoot cushioning • Softspikes Tour Lock system delivers a low profile and highretention receptacle and Pulsar cleat combination for dynamic cushioning and green-friendly traction.

• The Upper is made of lightweight performance mesh for comfort, breathability and durability, with the InnerSok system offering an achilles pad for additional support and comfort in the heel counter, while the Tongue-Lok instep grip ensures additional slip-resistant fit in a key location under the tongue.

• Natural Motion applied with a new midsole compound and construction methods for greater torsional flexibility thereby removing internal shank, optimising freedom to move and ground contact.

Collection Style

TUMI AlphA 2 CArT BAg Finally, a golf bag made for looks and hardiness.

Ballistic material. That isn’t a

word often used to describe a golf bag. But with TUMI’s new Alpha 2 Cart Bag, it represents everything.

You see, the iconic brand from New Jersey bases its heritage on black-on-black ballistic nylon that is thick, tough and have saved the lives of many a World War II airman.

With their latest venture into our world, TUMI elevates the golf experience combining mobility and advanced functionality. Designed with a 5-way divider system with a putter well and multiple pockets plus a non-slip base, this bag is the ideal choice for the player who most often uses a mobile or pull cart.

While the padded 5-way dividers in the top-cuff are positioned to optimize balance when carrying, the ballistic nylon hood can be snapped over the slots to keep clubs dry and protected against inclement weather. A variety of customised pockets and compartments for all essentials provide maximum storage capacity while minimising bulk, including a protective pocket for personal valuables, a front U-zipper pocket for shoes, two pockets to store extra golf balls and two side pockets for apparel.

Additional features include a removable padded shoulder sling for comfortable hauling, leather side grab handle and TUMIembroidered cotton towel that can be clipped onto the towel ring. To wrap it up, there is also a monogram patch and luggage tag for customisation.

www.tumi.sg

ApproximAte Dimensions: • Height: 35 inches • Width: 15.75 inches • Depth: 9 inches • Shoulder strap length: 38.5 inches • Weight: 10.1 lbs • Primary Material: Ballistic Nylon

hotel & Food

Long Bar at raffLes

singapore steakhouse refreshes its Menu in 2016 Long Bar Steakhouse, the timeless establishment nestled on the second floor of the Raffles Hotel Arcade and overlooking Raffles Courtyard, presents flavourful new additions to its menu.

Chef de Cuisine Kenny Chung continues the restaurant’s commitment to introduce carefully sourced ingredients from respected suppliers around the world. It is adjacent to the world-famous Long Bar and offers a stellar selection of old and new world wines. A large open kitchen anchors the restaurant, awash with earthy hues, promising an inviting and convivial experience.

Guests may look forward to new appetisers and the culinary favourite, Cape Grim Tasmanian beef alongside an array of appetisers and sides. The grass-fed Cape Grim beef is bred on lush Tasmanian pastures and renowned for its quality and consistency. With tasting and sampler choices, the menu also encourages sharing among families and groups of friends.

Start off with the freshest catch from the ocean including a refreshing Maine Lobster Salad. The meat is steamed and sous vide for a perfectly tender bite, then served with blanched Kenya beans, ratte potatoes and curls of foie gras, which are cleverly frozen and shaved over the salad.

The unique combination of lobster and foie gras is a perfect balance of sweet and savoury, made even more decadent by a generous drizzle of truffle vinaigrette.

Also new is the Chargrilled Tiger Prawns marinated in verbena – a citrusy herb, and served with seasonal vegetables such as baby zucchini, baby leeks, French Romanesco and Australian cauliflower.

The hearty dish is paired with tapenade for a bright finish. A luxurious take on the traditional nicoise salad is the Tuna Tartar tossed in house-made confit lemon. Added to the permanent menu due to customer demand, the delightful dish is presented with French beans, olives, romaine, tomatoes and Spanish anchovies.

For mains, the Cape Grim Tasmanian Beef is available in a 180g cut of filet mignon. The steak undergoes a meticulous, signature three-step cooking process for the perfect texture. It is first grilled, then popped into the oven and finished off in a pizza oven to develop a crisp outer crust. Tasmanian beef is well-loved for its tender textures and refined, delicate flavour when grilled.

The meat retains the infused essence of its seasonings and makes for a complete sensory tasting.

Long Bar Steakhouse#02-02/06, 1 Beach Road,Singapore 189673, +65 6412 1816, dining. singapore@raffles.com

hotel & Food

Celebrate tanabata Star FeStival at Yamazato

Tanabata, the Star Festival, takes place on the 7th day of the 7th month. Write your wishes on a piece of paper to hang on our bamboo tree, then enjoy Tanabata Gozen or Kaiseki menus at Yamazato.

To mark the auspicious occasion, Master Chef Shigeru Hagiwara has created two outstanding Tanabata Gozen and Kaiseki menus. The special Gozen set lunch priced at 900 baht per person and Kaiseki set dinner menus priced at 3,000 baht per person. Notable dishes from the Gozen platters include duck orange confit, yellowtail tuna sashimi, grilled salmon with spicy miso and leek, and steamed rice with Hijiki, and dried young sardines simmered with soy sauce. The Tanabata Kaiseki menu features hot clear soup with sea eel, tuna belly and angel shrimp sashimi, grilled duck, and chilled somen with crab, conger eel, Japanese Mioga ginger.

Tanabata Gozen and Kaiseki menus are available daily at Yamazato, located on the 24th floor of The Okura Prestige Bangkok, from 1-10 July 2016. Yamazato opens for lunch from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 6 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Yamazato is a multi-award-winning Japanese restaurant serving refined Kaiseki Ryori cuisine. Created by The Master Chef, the traditional recipes are presented with artistic flair to enjoy in an understated contemporary setting.

The beautifully balanced lunch, dinner and Ă la carte menus reflect the changing seasons and Japanese festivals throughout the year. Diners at Yamazato can enjoy the exceptional cuisine at one of two teppanyaki tables, at the sushi bar, or in a private dining room.

The Okura Prestige Bangkok is a member of Leading Hotels of the World.

Located within the iconic award-winning Park Ventures Ecoplex in the heart of downtown Bangkok, the renowned luxury hotel has convenient direct access to the

BTS SkyTrain at Ploen Chit station. The Okura Prestige Bangkok features 240 luxurious rooms and suites, three fine dining restaurants, an exclusive five-suite spa, a 25-metre infinity pool overlooking the city, a fitness centre, and outstanding facilities for meetings and events. Guests also enjoy gracious Thai hospitality and personal service to ensure a memorable stay in Bangkok.

The Okura Prestige Bangkok - Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel. 02 687 9000 yamazato@ okurabangkok.com

hotel & Food

One MOre at UnO MaS

Fine SpaniSh reStaUrant in BangkOk Featuring stunning panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline, an inspired menu celebrating Spanish and Mediterranean cuisines, and an outstanding wine list, UNO MAS at Centara Grand at CentralWorld offers city diners another outstanding destination in a spectacular setting.

UNO MAS, Spanish for “one more” is split into three unique zones on the 54th floor of the hotel, and is designed to take you on a journey for the senses through the vibrant Iberian Peninsula and the Mediterranean region.

The reception area with its blue glazed floor reminiscent of the Mediterranean sea, and bamboo clad walls lead directly to the stunning Wine Cellar, an eight-metre wine tower cosseting over 2,000 bottles that straddle both the Old and New Worlds. Wine aficionados can choose from 36 wines by the glass on offer or have the wine angel fly through the air to pick their preferred bottle.

DJ spinning Latin tunes provide the right vibe to accompany your favourite vintage.

Just past the Wine Cellar is the semialfresco Tapas & Raw Bar. Split into two levels, it offers cosy seating on ledge; tables for larger groups on the elevated wooden deck, and bar stools around the bar counter. The centre of the bar also features a huge display of the freshest oysters and

other seafood from the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Other display cases feature carefully selected cheese and olives, pickled vegetables, fish, as well as the renowned award-winning Pata Negra hams and salamis. A team of culinary artists serve up delicious traditional and creative tapas and pintxos such as ‘Gambas Pil Pil’, a clay pot of sizzling prawns in olive oil, cayenne chilies and garlic; ‘Golden Fried Chiperones’, tiny Spanish calamari battered and fried; whole fried sardines with Spanish lemon; bite-sized pieces of aged rib-eye; small plates of the paella of the day; fried and salted piquillo peppers and much more.

The semi-alfresco Dining Deck not only offers amazing views of the city skyline, but also more substantial meals from the show kitchen. Here chefs use special fire pits and the unique Josper oven to prepare their signature whole roast Spanish suckling

pigs, lamb, and other grilled seafood. Another pit uses orange wood to impart a distinctive flavour to the paellas, the traditional seafood and rice dish, and the similar Valencian fideuà, but which substitute’s rice with short lengths of dry pasta called fideus. And there is so much more on the menu to choose from.

With its spectacular setting, outstanding food and drinks, and funky music, UNO MAS is the perfect formula for a great night out. One that will have you calling for…One More.

Wine Cellar: 42 seats Tapas & Raw Bar: 60 seats Open Air Dining Deck: 78 seats Opening Hours Wine Bar: 16:00h to 01:00h Tapas & Raw Bar: 16:00h to 01:00h (last food order midnight) Dining Deck: 18:00h to 01:00h (last food order 23:30) For reservation, contact 02 100 6255 or email at diningcgcw@chr.co.th

hotel & Resort

The AmAri ShoreLine BeAch cLuB new rendezvouS SpoT in huA hin Located right on the white sand beach

within Amari Hua Hin hotel, Shoreline Beach Club has only the freshest seafood, meat and poultry barbequed to perfection.

You can choose from having dishes served to your table or you can manage your own selection from the mini grill.

Stirring sensational drinks, tasty prime cuts, and fresh seafood while you bask in the warm sun along the pool. Savor rich Mediterranean-Thai flavors under a vast canopy of stars with the serenading whispers of the ocean After drinks or fine Mediterranean meal you can walk directly to famous Cicada market. It is within 5 minutes walking distance from The Shoreline. Amari golf buggy can also drop you there.

Amari Hua Hin has Aqua Pool Bar with menu that blends international poolside favourites with “Tastes of Thailand� including a range of Thai bites. Both Thai and foreign guests alike will enjoy snacking all day on an array of Thai street food, with noodle soups, satay, fresh fruits and other street side dishes The Shoreline beach bar and Aqua Pool bar are both properties of Amari Hotel Hua Hin and welcome non-residents to enjoy both facilities as well. You will be well treated there with Amari hospitality.

Amari Hua Hin 117/74 Takiab Road, Nongkae, Hua Hin Tel. 032 616 600 www.amari.com/huahin/

hotel & Resort

ROYAL PLAZA On SCOTTS SingAPORe'S LegendARY HOTeL

Standing out on Scotts road adjacent to

Orchard road for the past 40 years, Royal Plaza on Scotts marks its 40th anniversary by celebrating with a brand new façade.

The design reflects modernity and vibrancy of the distinctive and iconic Orchard area where the hotel sits.

Featuring an all-steel porte-cochère and a new Thalia limestone cladded exterior, the combination of a neutral palette welcomes guests with a sophisticated and stylish entrance. Imported marble floors and columns add splendour to the revamp with a touch of elegance.

Apart from its new look, The Hotel offers an impressive line-up of features which will deliver the hotel’s promise of creating memorable experiences for business travellers.

Others include the hotel’s trendy restaurant Carousel as it promises to delight

your taste buds as well as pamper your other senses in a unique ambience where the diner is the focus of attention. The restaurant takes on a modern contemporary look with hip and stylish colourful furniture matching the unique themed seating areas within – the Living Room, the State Rooms and the Verandah.

After taking in the spectacular vistas presented by the restaurant’s décor, guests may then embark on a culinary adventure.

No less than seven satellite (stand-alone) kitchens in the restaurant beckon. Savoury, sweet or just simply tantalising, sample fare from the Asian and Mediterranean, Seafood and Rotisserie stations among others.

Carousel’s butlers, decked out in the hotel’s chic designer fashion, have been specially trained to provide personal touch with recommendations. Royal Plaza on Scotts is the first hotel in Singapore to

dress their associates in the all new classy designer fashion, signifying a refreshing approach from the norm in hotel fashion trend.

Complemented with modern amenities such as an internet lounge and a state-ofthe-art gymnasium, the hotel also offers complimentary mini-bar service and free internet access in all guestrooms. Royal Plaza on Scotts was the first upscale business hotel in Singapore to provide complimentary high-speed internet to all guestrooms with either hard-wired or wireless access. The introduction of Nespresso machines in all guest and meeting rooms and makeover of the hotel’s meeting facilities are products which give the hotel an edge.

Royal Plaza on Scotts 25 Scotts Road (adjacent to Orchard Road), Singapore 228220 Tel. (65) 6737 7966 royal@royalplaza.com.sg

Moments

ROLEX TESTIMONEE JORDAN SPIETH INSPIRED, BY ARNOLD PALMER S LEGACY AS HE RETURNS TO DEFEND MASTERS TITLE Geneva, 4 April 2016 – Ahead of the 80th Masters Tournament, where Rolex is an International Partner, defending champion Jordan Spieth has spoken of the inspiration he takes from his fellow Rolex Testimonee and four-time winner of the iconic Green Jacket, Arnold Palmer.

“Mr. Palmer is someone I look up to in every way. He is such a legend, not only in the game of golf but across sports, business and life. He’s been an inspiration for me as I work hard to build a legacy with my game, as well as to define and develop the person I am off the course,” said Spieth.

An iconic figure of the game, Palmer set forth the extraordinary relationship between golf and Rolex in 1967, when this historic figure was appointed the first Testimonee for the sport. Carrying forward the Swiss watchmaker’s longstanding association with excellence in golf, the Rolex family welcomed Spieth in 2013: “I consider myself a golf historian and the opportunity to align with a brand like Rolex, which has played such an important part in the development and history of the game, means a lot to me,” Spieth commented.

This week the Texan returns to Augusta National Golf Club in defence of the title he won in dominant fashion as a 21-yearold: “It has always been my dream to win the Masters, and seeing my name in the Champions Locker Room is a little surreal,” said Spieth, who shares his locker with Palmer. “It is an incredible honor to be called Masters Champion, and I can’t wait to be back for my Champions Dinner.

“I am really looking forward to hearing more from a room full of legends. I can’t wait for the stories.”

Spieth’s quick ascent since his breakthrough major win at the Georgia course has placed him in the international media spotlight and earned him adoration beyond traditional golfing fans, much like Palmer 50 years before him.

Together with Jason Day and Rickie Fowler, Spieth forms part of the Rolex New Guard – a class of leading golfers that show a potential to shape the game’s future and inspire those vying for future stardom.

Palmer holds these players in high regard. “Jordan, Rickie, and Jason are young players that are positioned to influence a new generation of youngsters who may consider taking up the game, either recreationally or competitively,” he said.

“The enthusiasm and energy that they devote to golf should be an inspiration to their peers to explore the fun and enjoyment that can be had from competing with your friends, whether you reach the highest echelons of the sport or are comfortable being a high handicapper who enjoys it as a recreation and for healthy exercise.”

Rolex Director of Communication & Image, Arnaud Boetsch, said: “The Rolex New Guard are excellent representatives of modern day athletic excellence, with unwavering devotion to their sport and a highly mindful sense of responsibility and kinship toward the generations that will follow.

“Rolex is proud to be associated with golf’s legendary past as well as its present and future champions.”

The 2016 lineup includes famous names that have exuded the unique skills required to succeed at the Masters. Among them is 2013 Masters Champion Adam Scott, who has demonstrated a phenomenal return form this year, collecting back-to-back PGA Tour titles in March. Fellow former champions and Rolex Testimonees Tom Watson, Fred Couples, Bernhard Langer, Phil Mickelson and Trevor Immelman also join the field.

Meanwhile, young golfers from around the world will aspire to the achievements of the talented amateurs making their Masters debut as respective winners of Rolex-supported events – the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, Latin America Amateur Championship, U.S. Amateur Championship and The R&A’s Amateur Championship. Awarding future stars the exceptional experience of one of golf’s most pressured stages, Rolex and Augusta National Golf Club make evident their shared commitment to inspiring the next generation of golfers.

Moments

KbanK enjoy your swing campaign KBank launches new campaign “Kbank enjoy your swing, enjoy your golf game everyday.” K-credit cardholders are offered special privileges and special discount on green fees for 80 golf courses every Wednesday and Sunday. Every hole in one is rewarded with 2 round trip air tickets and credit cash back. Plus, lucky draw and other special bonus.

All golfers who are K-credit cardholders can check out “Thailand Golf Guide 2016”, the guide book for golfers to check for details on privileges offered by each golf course that takes part in the KBank enjoy your swing campaign. Or find more information on www.askkbank.com.

Don't forget to check out “Swing Thailand ” application for information about golf courses in Thailand.

Moments

CORTINA WATCH, UNVEILS BULGARI S 2016 TIMEPIECE COLLECTION Bangkok, 28 April 2016 – Cortina Watch, Thailand’s leading luxury watch retailer and distributor, together with Bulgari, celebrated the launch of the Italian maison’s 2016 watch collection.

Highlights included the world record breaking Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater, as well as the Serpenti Incantati Tourbillon Lumière, showcasing Bulgari’s expertise in both Haute Joaillerie and Haute Horlogerie.

On this special occasion, Mr. Krist Chatikaratana, Executive Director of Cortina Watch (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Mr. Fulvio Manini, Senior Wholesale Manager of Bulgari South Asian Operations introduced Bulgari’s unique blend of Swiss watchmaking expertise and Italian design to 80 guests over an intimate cocktail.

The Octo Minute Repeater which recently made waves at its Baselworld debut weigh a mere 43 grams and was conceived to be worn as a daily watch – the complete opposite to the usual Minute Repeaters, which are most often aimed to be stored in a safe! The Octo Finissimo Minute repeater holds two world records - that of the thinnest minute repeater and minute repeater movement - with a calibre measuring just 3.12mm and the overall case thickness amounting to a mere 6.85mm.

The new Serpenti Incantati references gives a new lease on life to the brand’s iconic animal symbol – the snake. Now twining itself around the watch dial, this bewitching interpretation sees each part of the snake’s head and body rethought and redesigned through contemporary, soft and stylized lines.

Discover Bulgari 2016 Watch Collection at Cortina Watch Espace, 1st floor, The Erawan Bangkok (Tel. 02 250 7999) and Cortina Watch Boutique, 1st floor, Central Plaza Ladprao (Tel. 02 937 0890)

Moments

Banyan MERCEDES BEnZ Banyan The Resort Hua Hin hosted the annual charity event “Banyan Mercedes Benz Road Cruise 2016” with the Mercedes Benz Club Thailand.

Hua Hin, 25 January 2016 – Banyan The Resort, Hua Hin, represented by Sirirat Murphy, General Manager, successfully organized the recently concluded second annual charity event ‘Banyan Mercedes Benz Road Cruise 2016’ in collaboration with the Mercedes Benz Club Thailand led by Sayam Sethaputra, President of the Club. For the second year running, members of the Club joined the road cruise with their Mercedes Benz sports cars. Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow, President and CEO of Grand Prix International Public Co., Ltd. was the guest of honor at this event.

The event included a caravan from Bangkok to Hua Hin of various models of Mercedes Benz by their owners who are members of the Mercedes Benz Club Thailand; CSR activities at MEPSEC (Mangrove Ecosystem Preservation & Science Education Centre), the last remaining urban mangrove in Hua Hin with land donated by Khao Krai Lart and which is developed and commissioned in honour and celebration of the 60th birthday anniversary of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn; visit to Ratchapakdi Park Hua Hin to pay homage to the seven famed and great Thai kings; and culminated with a buffet dinner with a mini concert by the famous singers Joe & Kong of the Nuvo fame, Tang Mo and The Attention plus magic shows and raffle prizes with vouchers and gifts from Chiva Som, True Arena, Mahasamutr Country Club Hua Hin, Bangkok Hospital, Bangkok Airways, Color Glo, Megular’s, PTT, Intercontinental Hotel Hua Hin and Banyan The Resort Hua Hin. Apart from the main feature at the dinner night which was the display of Mercedes Benz Classic and the luxury SLS Sports Cars, 10 wheel chairs were donated to the Thai Red Cross in Hua Hin, Prachuapkirikhan by Color Glo International Thailand, one of the main sponsors. Proceeds of the funds raised at the charity dinner will also be donated to the Thai Red Cross in Hua Hin for various activities to serve the Hua Hin community.

This event was well supported by the Governors of Prachuapkirikhan and Phetchaburi, TAT Prachuapkirikhan by Khun Orasa Arwutkom, Mahasamutr Country Club Hua Hin

by PACE Development Corporation Public Co., Ltd., Mercedes Benz Thailand, Grand Prix International Public Co., Ltd., Meguiar’s Thailand Co., Ltd. and other sponsors.

The Last Putt

the Master architect with a passion for Golf

Chairat Chuvessiriporn, Managing Director of SRM which runs 5 golf courses for the conglomerate TCC Group, sits down for a one-on-one interview with Golf Vacations Thailand. Here, he shares his passion for golf and thoughts on golf tourism.

Q1. So tell us a little more about yourself.

I graduated from Chulalongkorn University, (B.Arch.) and National University of Singapore (M.Sc. in Project Construction Management), practiced in Thailand and Singapore in real estate design, construction, property management and development industry.

Q2. What is SRM? What is your direction for SRM as the Managing Director?

Sports and Recreation Management Co., Ltd. (SRM) is an affiliated company under TCC Group, currently managing 5 golf courses namely Rajpruek Club in North Park, Bangkok, Lakeview Resort and Golf Club in Cha-Am Hua Hin, Pattavia Golf Club in Chonburi, Victory Park Golf Club in Nongkhai, and Pakse Golf Club in Laos. Our vision for SRM is “a leader in golf and sports facilities management�.

Q3. Personally, how do you think golf tourism would affect Thailand?

The mature golfing markets of North America, UK, Japan and Australia have seen stagnation in the number of dedicated golfers in recent years. The rapidly growing golf markets in Asia, the Middle East and Mexico will contribute to the growth of the golf sector worldwide. Thailand as one of emerging markets would definitely benefit from the global golf tourism market particularly in Asia which is worth approximately over US $17 billion.

Q4. How often do you golf?

Once or twice a month.

Q5. As an architect, what is your favorite course design that you like to play and who do you like to make as 4 ball team to play there?

I always appreciate nice scenery blending in between the golf course layout itself and the surrounding. One of my favorite golf courses is Pebble Beach Golf Links, California. It hugs the rugged coastline and has wide open views of Carmel Bay, opening to the Pacific Ocean.

It would be great if I could play there once with Jack Nicklaus who won the first US Open held there in 1972. The other two balls could be my ex-college classmates whom I often play with, so that we can chit chat with Jack during the round of golf and with great memorable experience.

By George Somapa

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