Swing Image Issue 17

GOLF & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE • ISSUE 17 • OCT–JAN 2012 0144_SI_Issue17_JR_FC.indd 1

JUSTIN ROSE INTERVIEW SWING ANALYSIS GARY PLAYER The Black Knight DARREN CLARKE Open Champion

swingimage.co.uk

GOLF IN THAILAND A selection of the best courses to play

9/17/11 6:09 PM

SwingImage_DPS_CHTS_outl.indd 1

15/09/2011 11:31:34

SwingImage_DPS_CHTS_outl.indd 2

15/09/2011 11:31:37

‘THE MOST EXCITING GOLF COURSE IN PHUKET’

For information on corporate golf days visit 0144_SI_Issue17_RMandLP.indd 2

www.redmountainphuket.com 9/17/11 6:12 PM

RED MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB – PHUKET 119 Moo 4 Vichitsongkram Rd., Kathu, Phuket Tel: 66 (0)76 322 000-1 Fax: 66 (0)76 322 009 E-mail Contact: info@redmountainphuket.com Web: www.redmountainphuket.com

0144_SI_Issue17_RMandLP.indd 3

9/17/11 6:12 PM

‘THE MOST RELAXING GOLF COURSE IN PHUKET’

For information on corpo r ate golf days visit 0144_SI_Issue17_RMandLP.indd 4

www.lochpa lm.com 9/17/11 6:12 PM

LOCH PALM GOLF CLUB – PHUKET 38 Moo 5 Vichitsongkram Rd., Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand Tel: 66(0)76321 929-34 Fax: 66(0)76 321 928 E-mail Contact: info@lochpalm.com Web: www.lochpalm.com

0144_SI_Issue17_RMandLP.indd 5

9/17/11 6:12 PM

10

24

Gary Player Interview by Sean Harrison

Justin Rose Interview by Richard Simmons

43

64

Andy Combe Swing Analysis & Instruction

Darren Clarke Interview by Paul Mahoney

Asia Office Phuket Golf Studio Co. Ltd. 22/11 Sirirad Road, Kathu, Thailand 83150 Editor Sean Harrison golfswingimage@yahoo.com

Art & Design Tel: +66 (0) 898 670 188 info@bang-ideas.com www.bang-ideas.com Photography Mark Newcombe Visions in golf www.visionsingolf.com Getty Images www.gettyimages.com

Advertising For a Media Kit please contact golfswingimage@yahoo.com Printed by Lake & Fountain Printing Company Ltd. Bangkok Distribution Swing Image is a luxury golf and lifestyle publication directed to Business Class Lounges, Airline Gates, Luxury Hotel Rooms, Golf

Resorts, Property Companies & selected Real Estate Offices. www.swingimage.co.uk Distribution Airline Lounges & gates Dawson Media - Hong Kong www.dawsonmediadirect.com

Swing Image is also distributed to the business class lounges and gates of the airlines listed below at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.

All of the articles and photographs published in this magazine are the property of Swing Image and any reproduction in any form is prohibited unless written permission is given by the publisher. While we make every effort possible at Swing Image to ensure that everything printed is correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur.

Design Copyright Swing Image 2011. All rights reserved.

0144_SI_Issue17_ContentEditors.indd 2

9/17/11 6:14 PM

CUSTOM CLUB FITTING

For those that are serious about their game.

ANY GOLFER WHO IS ABOUT TO INVEST IN THEIR GOLF GAME BY PURCHASING A NEW SET OF CLUBS SHOULD MAKE ONE MORE INVESTMENT - CUSTOM CLUB-FITTING. Whatever your golf level, it must

her swing - grooving a good

be good to know that if you do

swing to a poor swing to

make a good swing, with the

compensate their off-the-shelf

club-head square to your target

golf set.

at impact, you will produce a shot on your target line.

Of course a fitting will only work if you follow up by

Every golfer varies in height,

purchasing a set of clubs

strength and body shape

custom made to your

and everyone’s golf swing is

specifications and if, for

different, so it makes sense to

example, you want a set of

adjust your golf clubs to match

Titleist clubs, the ones you

the shape of your golf swing.

order after a club-fitting will cost approximately the same

Custom club-fitting results

as the set bought off-the-shelf.

in clubs that are specifically suited to an individual’s height,

Among the main factors in

To begin with simple

Analysis equipment can also

strength, club-head speed and

club fitting are;-

measurements such as distance

measure everything from

wrist-to-floor, height and hand

your club speed to the side

swing characteristics whereas clubs bought off-the-shelf are

Best combination of club-

size are taken. Then you will

spin of the ball so that you can

‘one-size-fits-all’ designed for

shaft [shaft length, flex

take a club and hit some balls.

get maximum distance. You

the standard golfer. Standard

& kick-point]

One method is to place impact

can also measure the launch

being around 5 ft’’10, and

Club loft [standard,

tape on the bottom of the club

angle of the ball, how much

hitting a 6-iron around 150

week, or strong]

and strike balls from an impact

backspin you generate and

yards. You never know, with

The lie angle of the club

board on the floor.

impact efficiency, all of which

luck, your off-the-shelf set

[standard, upright or flat]

may be OK for you, but many

Grip size [large to

As you hit the ball the board

golfers without knowing find

small hands]

will leave a mark on the tape

create distance.

showing whether the heel or

themselves with clubs that are There are different methods

the toe of the club is striking

according to golf club

the floor first. The resulting

Many swing coaches have

manufacturers but ultimately

mark will show whether the

probably noted adjustments

they are all trying to improve

club face needs to be flatter or

a golfer has made in his or

your game.

more upright.

not suited to them.

0144_SI_Issue17_ContentEditors.indd 3

SEAN HARRISON PUBLISHER/EDITOR

9/17/11 6:14 PM

10

GARY PLAYER Interview by Swing Image Editor, Sean Harrison

Gary Player has logged more than 15 million miles in travel, probably more than any other athlete. With his nine major championship victories, as well as his nine major victories on the Champions Tour, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of golf.

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Gary is renowned for his dedication to the principles of excellence as well as his golfing accomplishments. He is recognised worldwide as an uncompromising perfectionist who settles for nothing but the best. His impeccable set of values, stringent regime for health and fitness and insistence on quality have earned him admiration the world over.

Dubbed the Black Knight, Mr. Fitness, and the International Ambassador of Golf, he is a renowned golf course architect with more than 300 design projects worldwide.

0144_SI_Issue17_GaryPlayerInt.indd 2

His business interests are represented by Black Knight International, which includes Gary Player Design, Player Real Estate and Black Knight Enterprises, aspects of which include licensing, events, publishing, wine and apparel.

Set up in 1984, The Player Foundation built the Blair Atholl Schools in Johannesburg which has educational facilities for over 500 students from kindergarten through grade eight. The foundation has since expanded efforts in all corners of the globe, raising funds for impoverished children through four Gary Player Invitational events in Europe, China, the USA and South Africa.

9/17/11 6:15 PM

11

0144_SI_Issue17_GaryPlayerInt.indd 3

9/17/11 6:15 PM

12 world. Do you have any On the Swilken bridge at St. Andrews, Gary with his caddy at the Open Championship in 1960.

favourites?

I am truly proud of most of our work over the years.

Certainly some of our recognized projects in South Africa are near and dear to my heart‌ The Links at Fancourt was certainly one of our most challenging sites on which to work, and it was eventually selected to host the Presidents Cup. The Blair Atholl near Johannesburg has received rave reviews and I think deservedly so. We have also completed a very impressive project in Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. I love that one.

Not many people have seen it, but I am quite fond of the golf course I built on my farm in Colesberg, South Africa. It has many cutting edge water conservation techniques, which I view as extremely important.

What are the most important aspects of putting together a successful golf resort?

I have been preaching that a golf resort has to have more than just a golf course.

Amenities should be built for all members of a family, so

You are the only golfer in

The Open Championship has

hotel room. When I went back

that everyone will want to be

the 20th Century to win

always been a very special

to St. Andrews in Scotland

there. Wives and children

the Open Championship

event for me. The first time

many years later, I visited the

who don’t play golf should

in three different decades.

I was invited to play in the

sand dune where I slept. The

not be forgotten.

Would competing in The

Open the members at my

experience of sleeping in the

Open be some of the most

local golf club had to take

sand was so powerful.

enjoyable times in your

up a collection to pay for my

career?

travel expenses and I ended

As a course architect

especially the driver and

Absolutely, I won my first

up sleeping on the beach

you have over 300 design

ball, influenced your

major at Muirfield in 1959 and

because I could not afford a

projects throughout the

course designs?

0144_SI_Issue17_GaryPlayerInt.indd 4

How have the changes in golf equipment,

9/17/11 6:15 PM

13 I wish I could say no, but they have. We must design for length in today’s world, and that’s a direction that needs to be reversed if we are to build affordable golf courses. Even with the length of today’s players, I still like to design short, strategic, “risk/reward” holes.

If you could build a golf course anywhere in the world where would it be?

That’s a tough question. I will say that emerging markets where golf is not yet popular are my favourites...I simply love introducing golf to new populations and to help grow the game globally.

You have designed and built courses that use less water - why is this?

And is your primary focus at Gary Player Design to preserve the environment?

I strongly believe that water is one of our most precious resources, and I am determined to do my part in

convenient and for those

my family I traveled all over

Jack Nicklaus and Arnold

conserving it. Not only do I

pros who can afford it is

the world to compete. Put

Palmer will always stand

feel that the environment is

great. The thing to remember

it this way, 40 hours from

out because of the great

our primary responsibility as

is that players may get to

Johannesburg to New York

competitions we had during

designers, I feel that we must

tournaments faster and

was not uncommon. Today

our careers and the great

be truly eco-friendly if we are

with less hassle, but your

it is a 16 hour flight in a seat

friendship we have built over

to survive as an industry. We

jet doesn’t make a 15 foot

that turns into a flat bed. Oh

nearly 50 years. Having the

really won’t have a choice in

pressure putt to win a major -

how I wish the airlines had

chance to play Ben Hogan

the coming years.

you do.

seats that turned into beds

was the most memorable of

during my career.

my career. I have played with

How do you think today’s

Airline travel must have

private jet travel has

been so much different in

Who would stand out

the 60’s as well as celebrities

changed the life for golfers

the 1950’s and 1960’s?

as some of the most

like Elvis, Bob Hope, Jack

out on tour?

Completely. Because we lived

celebrated and recognised

Nicholson, Samuel L. Jackson,

Private air travel makes life

in South Africa and I had to

people you have played

and Michael Douglas and his

on tour easier and more

win tournaments to support

golf with?

wife Catherine Zeta-Jones.

0144_SI_Issue17_GaryPlayerInt.indd 5

most of the US Presidents since

9/17/11 6:15 PM

14 What’s your opinion of the modern day prize funds - the FEDEX Cup and the Race to Dubai?

The reality is that the game has changed since my days on tour and the prize money is much more significant. I think it is great the today’s players have the chance to earn the amount of money they do and I have no issues with the prizes being offered.

Golf competes with other sports for TV ratings and ratings are very important to secure sponsors and the large purses we see. Golf like every other sport needs

“Diet, health and fitness were such a huge part of my success... every person, golfer or not, should take their health seriously.”

to adjust to the times and the FEDEX Cup and Race to Dubai are examples of how golf has attempted to make positive changes and increase its popularity.

Do you still find the time to

the things you don’t do well.

us a bit about your horses

work on your golf game?

If you can’t hit a bunker shot

and the ranch?

For bunker play, apart

I still love to play competitive

then practice until you can.

I love spending time on

from you, Seve Ballesteros

golf and have not lost any of

was probably the best in

my desire to win, but I don’t

Are young players still

We have been doing quite

the world - and he would

practice like I used to. I do

coming to you for advice

well in terms of raising top

practice on the beach.

however put a lot of practice

regarding your health and

flight thoroughbreds which

How did you spend most

time in before a tournament

fitness regime?

brings me great pleasure

of your time practising

that I am competing in.

Yes and I am happy to help in

given the time and effort we

any way I can. Diet, health and

have put into the business.

bunker shots?

the ranch with my horses.

I practiced in the bunker and

For practice - what time

fitness were such a huge part

Horses remain one of my

practiced until I holed three

ratio do you think golfers

of my success both on and off

true passions. My ranch is my

in a row. I was late for dinner

should adopt for the long

of the course and I hope that

favorite place in the world

a lot. The key for me was

game/short game?

every person, golfer or not,

and I make an effort to spend

to master the bunker shot

There is no set ratio in terms

takes their health seriously.

as much time there as I can. I

and not the club I was using.

long and short game, what

Staying in top physical form is

usually can spend a full month

I got to the point where I

I do suggest is that golfers

one of the keys to becoming a

there 2 or 3 times a year

could take any club from a

think about what clubs they

true champion.

which I really enjoy.

lob wedge to a three iron

hit most often and put the

and hit a bunker shot. Once

time in to master those shots.

The Gary Player Stud Farm

The Player Foundation was

I learned and perfected my

The short game is extremely

has received worldwide

established in 1983 and

sand shot I could replicate it

important so take the time

acclaim for breeding over

has raised over $30 Million

under any condition, in any

to master it as best you can

2,000 top thoroughbred

USD. Can you tell us a bit

type of bunker with any club.

and don’t forget to practice

race horses. Can you tell

about the foundation?

0144_SI_Issue17_GaryPlayerInt.indd 6

9/17/11 6:15 PM

15 I came from humble

6. The fox fears not the man

upbringing and know

who boasts by night but the

firsthand what it means to

man who rises early in the

have little and that was my

morning.

motivation for establishing

7. Accept the advice of the

The Player Foundation. I

man who loves you, though

sincerely wanted to help at

you like it not at present.

risk kids and with my son Marc we established the Blair Atholl School in South Africa.

Children can’t choose their parents or what situation they are born into, so we set out to help them as best we could by providing a safe environment where they could get a good education, health meals and most importantly love. My dedication to helping those

8. Trust instinct to the end, though you cannot render any reason.

9. The heights of great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but that while their companions slept were toiling upward in the night.

10. There is no substitute for personal contact.

kids is one of my true passions and Blair Atholl is one of my greatest, if not my greatest accomplishments in life. I am so proud of what we have built and the education we have been able to provide to so many needy children.

To enable you to have so much success in golf, life and business what would you list as your top ten principals, commandments?

I have ten – what I call The Ten Commandments of life: 1. Change is the price of survival.

2. Everything in business is negotiable except quality.

3. A promise made is a debt incurred.

4. For all we take in life we must pay.

5. Persistence and common sense are more important than intelligence.

0144_SI_Issue17_GaryPlayerInt.indd 7

“I am so proud of what we have built and the education we have been able to provide to so many needy children... My dedication to helping those kids is one of my true passions and Blair Atholl is one of my greatest, if not my greatest accomplishments in life.”

9/17/11 6:15 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_AlpineGC.indd 2

9/16/11 12:51 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_AlpineGC.indd 3

9/16/11 12:51 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_AlpineGC.indd 4

9/16/11 12:52 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_AlpineGC.indd 5

9/16/11 12:52 PM

Sai Taan Villas Situated on the west coast of Phuket, Sai Taan Villas is a luxury development of private garden villas offering complete privacy and an ultimate lifestyle for holiday or retirement.

Miles of beautiful beaches combine with one of the most attractive cultures in the world.

Sai Taan Villas is located right at the main

garden villas in a convenient location. After

technology the three principles relocated

entrance to the Laguna Phuket Golf Club,

the completion of 28 Villas in December

from major business centres around Asia

4 minutes away from Bang Tao Beach.

2006 - Sai Taan launched Sai Taan Villas.Â

to upgrade quality of life, spend time with

Also, being located just fifteen minutes by

Now in its 7th year of operation they have

family, but maintain a finger on the pulse

highway from Phuket airport the location

been very well received and recognized

of business round the region - Phuket is

is very convenient for the busy executive

as one of the best selling developments

an ideal location.

looking for a weekend trip.

on the island.

In July 2003, Sai Taan began its first

The developers all live in Phuket in the

development with the purchase of some

vicinity of Sai Taan. Following successful

8 Rai of land with a view to building 9

careers in the worlds of entertainment &

0144_SI_Issue17_SaiTaanVillas.indd 2

9/16/11 12:56 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_SaiTaanVillas.indd 3

9/17/11 6:18 PM

22

They moved to make this lifestyle

builder who has completed many 5 star

available to a broader community, by

developments in Bangkok and Phuket.

employing an international architect

Now in his 6th year of working with

based in Hong Kong, responsible for the

Sai Taan this has proved a successful

design of several beautiful homes round

partnership for all concerned.

the island. His brief was to combine

The Villas Each villa sits on a plot of at least (950 sq m) with a generous private pool 10m by 4.5m. All rooms open on to the pool - the centre of the house, via

The Villas have been designed to

concertina glass and hardwood doors.

combine the function of a modern home

Where possible the existing Banyan (Sai)

with an easy flow between indoor and

and tall coconut (Taan) trees have been

outdoor - enabling open living. Â Design

retained, providing an element of shade

influences evoke the light and elegance

and underscoring the simple elegance of

To bring the design to life the developers

of traditional Northern Thai architecture,

Sai Taan living.

called in a well respected Bangkok

with pitched roofs over major living areas.

the function of a modern home with maximum use of open living afforded

by Phuket’s tropical climate. The result speaks for itself.

XX

0144_SI_Issue17_SaiTaanVillas.indd 4

9/17/11 6:18 PM

The construction makes extensive use

There is an option to add a fourth

opened create that special tropical

of modern western technology, but the

bedroom by way of a fully self contained

ambience for entertaining.

finishing in local materials emphasises

Garden Suite bringing the total covered

Oriental imagery. The pitched roofs are

living space to 282 sq m or (3,103 sq

finished internally with local hardwood

ft) Especially suitable for those long

emphasising

the

staying guests! A huge central living

structure. The standard Sai Taan villa

area of approx 64.8 sq m (648 sq ft),

contains 247 sq m (2,717 sq ft) of

compromising breakfast bar, dining

covered living space with 3 bedrooms,

room and living room with pitched

including a magnificent master suite with

ceiling, overlooks the terrace, pool and

pitched ceiling. All bedrooms have

gardens. The concertina glass doors

en suite facilities. Servants’ quarters,

running the length of this area, give

laundry and wet kitchen are provided.

directly onto the pool terrace and when

the

0144_SI_Issue17_SaiTaanVillas.indd 5

elegance

of

For more information contact : Ms. Thipaporn Roersch (Kati) +66 (0) 76 271 255 Email: info@sai-taan-phuket.com Web: www.sai-taan-phuket.com

9/17/11 6:18 PM

JUSTIN ROSE A two-time winner last year on the PGA Tour, England’s Justin Rose has all the potential in the world to join his contempories at the very top of the rankings.

Interview - Richard Simmons, Golf International Magazine. www.golfinternationalmag.com Photography - Mark Newcombe, Visions in Golf. www.visionsingolf.com

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRoseInt.indd 2

9/17/11 6:20 PM

25

You have made no secret

in those kids’ shoes and that

too much going on. Having

me to No 6 in the world. But

of your love of living in

is the future of golf coming

said that, I think the 18th is

I just thought I was ready for

America – how much do

through, which is kind of cool.

probably a better hole now.

a change. I feel that Sean has

The thing with Wentworth

‘rounded off’ my swing made

you enjoy coming home to the UK to play?

What do you make of what

is it’s such an iconic course

it more of a circle, made the

I love it – and the PGA at

the changes they have

you tend to look at it as you

plane a little better and more

Wentworth is one of my

made to the course?

remember it when watching

consistent and he’s added

favourite tournaments to play.

I can understand what

the world’s best compete

shots to my game. In the past

Outside the majors it is up

they are trying to achieve,

there over the years in PGA’s

I felt like I didn’t really know

there as the one I want to win. I

toughening up the course a

and World Match Plays.

how to shape a ball. I didn’t

grew up not far away, at North

little bit. They needed to do

Hants, and it’s always good

something about the greens.

You moved from Nick

of hitting a ball right to left or

to get the buzz of the crowd

In recent years the seed on

Bradley to Tiger’s coach

left to right, club-face versus

and feel like a hometown boy

the greens made holing a

Sean Foley recently. How

path versus hand angle and

again. I’ve been coming to

putt of any significant length

is that working out?

so on. Sean really teaches

Wentworth since I was about

all but out of your control.

I made the switch to Sean a

principles based on using

8 years old – I’d be one of the

But it’s always hard to see an

little over a year ago and a lot

feedback from TrackMan

kids behind the 18th green

iconic golf course go through

of what I have worked on with

– he’s at the forefront of

asking for a ball. It’s a sign of

the quite dramatic changes

Sean has been relatively easy

teaching that way. That’s the

how far I’ve come – and of the

we have witnessed. A couple

because of where we had got

way golf is going right now

years rolling by! I like to do

of holes, for me, they have

before. Nick Bradley and I had

and it suits me because I’m a

my best to remember I was

got a little too busy, there’s

done well together – he took

fairly analytical type of player.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRoseInt.indd 3

really understand the science

9/17/11 6:20 PM

26 Given the quality of the

of the window. What Sean

and watching these guys hit

Do you see much of Tiger?

data that’s teaching you

does is have you think about

shots that I just couldn’t hit. They

Certainly since he’s been

nowadays - you can not

assembling your levers and

were hitting shots that I was

working with Sean we’ve

argue with?

delivering the club-face in the

just not comfortable playing,

spent a bit of time together.

Sure. And the key is, it doesn’t

most efficient way. You know, I

something was not adding up

Talk golf technique. I’m a

necessarily have to look pretty

have no doubt Tiger is a smart

and so that got me thinking.

little further down the road

in every sense of the word,

guy and he would not have

Sean is not a guy who is all that

with Sean than he is. But it’s

in terms of having a swing on

made the decision to switch to

interested in self promotion –

fascinating to get an insight

‘perfect plane’ and having

Sean lightly. I switched to Sean

he’s just a serious coach who

into the way he thinks about

hands in certain positions.

after playing a lot of golf with

believes in what he does. I find

the game. They have been

That kind of thinking is out

Hunter Mahan and Sean O’Hair,

him very genuine.

doing a lot of good work together – we saw glimpses of that on the last day at Augusta.

But with the knee injury I think there are a lot of limitations on what Tiger can do.

Your game seems to get hot in bursts – is consistency the thing you work towards most?

Certainly a goal of mine this year is to be in contention on a more regular basis – though perhaps not up to Luke Donaldstandards – in terms of cuts made, top 20 finishes and so on. I’m getting there. I need the short game to improve a little bit and I’ve just started working with Mark Roe. The long game and short game are very different animals. You know, in the long game I try to keep my right hand out of the swing and yet in chipping I’m looking for right hand feel and so on. Roey is very good. I think that when you work with someone who is an expert, like he is, it gives you clarity and when you have clarity it’s easier to practice more and practice well. When you are confused about something it’s very difficult to practice for 3 hours and make a difference – in fact you’ll probably get worse.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRoseInt.indd 4

9/17/11 6:20 PM

27 When you see the likes of Luke and Lee at the top of the rankings – guys you’ve grown up with – does it give you extra motivation?

I think in the past I’ve consciously tried to do that – to get determined, to be more aggressive and work harder, thinking I’m every bit as good as they are. But that doesn’t really help me. What I need to do is not to pay too much attention to what others are doing. I work best when I focus on my own trend lines.

I am getting incrementally better week-in and week-out.

That’s all I can do. I’m not really much of a goal setter; I focus more on the learning experience and improvement process. If I keep on doing that I believe some great things will happen and I think my time will come. But it’s only going to happen if I can keep on improving – and that’s a hard thing to do.

How much of a benefit has the TaylorMade Performance Lab been to you on the equipment side?

I am a big believer in technology, always have been. We all have an idea as to how the swing feels, but as every golfer will tell you the reality of what you are actually doing is often very different to the reality. The Taylor- Made Matt system not only gives you all the data of Trackman but also a visual of your swing.

I find that hugely beneficial.

So, to give an example, not only can you see that you are

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRoseInt.indd 5

9/17/11 6:20 PM

28

Justin announced himself to the golfing world when, as a 17 year old amateur he pitched in at the 18th hole of the final round to finish in 4th place at the 1998 Open Championship, Royal Birkdale Right - An instant favourite with the British public and the rest of the golfing world.

coming ‘over the top’ on the

was chip and putt. I spent

the greatest. When I won the

That’s one of my dearest

way down, but the system

countless hours at North Hants

Memorial at Muirfield Village

possessions.

tells you precisely by how

playing like that. There was a

last year Seve was honoured

many degrees. So, on the next

wooded area near the putting

at the tournament – they

How has being a father

swing you might think, ‘OK,

green. We used to go deep

honour a special individual

changed your outlook over

I was 6 degrees outside, this

into the woods and see how

every year. And there were a

the last year or so?

time I’ll get it inside’. You see

many shots it would take to

couple of times when I found

I think it put life into

it and now you are 4 degrees.

hole out. Seve was always

myself in trouble and I can

perspective; by that I mean

So it gives you great feedback

the guy I pictured doing that.

remember asking myself, ‘OK,

golf is still important to me,

on how much you need to

I’ve played against him in the

what would Seve do?’ I’d try

it’s still my passion and my

exaggerate a change.

Seve Trophy, which was a

to play it like him. My sister

career, my destiny. But it’s

great honour. He was not at

Margi works for the Seve

not everything anymore.

You burst onto the scene

his best at all, but he was still

Foundation /Cancer Research

Basically, your good days

in 1997, 21 years after

the guy who just looked so

and I had the chance to

are every bit as good, but

Seve arrived at Birkdale.

comfortable with a club in his

relay that story to him. We

your bad days are nowhere

What are your own

hands. It just seemed to be a

had a little correspondence.

near as bad as they were.

memories of him?

part of him, especially around

He signed a book I was

You get back to your hotel,

Seve was the guy we all tried

the greens. There are some

presented with for winning

see your little boy and

to be out on the putting green.

great short games out there

the Memorial Tournament. ‘A

suddenly snap out of it. Also

You know, as a kid, summer

– Luke Donald right now. But

huge success, keep going...’

sharing success is very

holidays, all you ever did

for sheer invention Seve was

he wrote. Jack signed it too.

much a part of our lives.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRoseInt.indd 6

9/17/11 6:20 PM

29

If you had to rank

Tournament last year, signed

and lemonade. Getting home

shirt....I won’t go in to the

the majors...

by Seve and Jack

looking like the Joker with a

details of why I wasn’t wearing

blackcurrent moustache!

my blazer. But they serve

That’s a tough call – it

3. The wedge I holed out for a

shouldn’t be but it is. OK, here

4 at Birkdale in 1998 – plus my

6. Junior Open speeches! ‘I’d

goes: The Open, Masters,

silver medal for finishing as

like to thank the greenkeeper...

US Open and USPGA. The

leading amateur. (The wedge

the catering staff....

Masters is my favourite major

is framed and in the Royal

of the year to play, but the

Birkdale clubhouse)

strong over there!

8. One of my favourite memories is winning the

7. Team golf - getting away

British Masters at Woburn,

with the lads. I loved all that.

one of the only pro events my

4. Memories of me and my

The England team with Luke

Dad saw me win. That was very special

Open would be my favourite major to win.

those vodka and oranges

dad spending time together

Donald.... Ed: [Mike Reynard

Justin Rose

on the golf course. My one

told me not to mention the

MY PERSONAL TOP 10

regret would be not having

England match in Spain....]

9. The Hampshire Hog - a great

done that enough after turning

He told you about that? That

amateur event at my home

1. Late evenings, with the golf

pro. Golf became too serious

was fabulous. That was my first

course at North Hants, Fleet.

course quiet, sun going down

too quick

England match against Spain.

That was a major, great

On the way home all the lads

memories

lengthening shadows, peaceful 5. Putting competitions as

are coming off the plane

2. The book I was presented

a kid, out there for hours

in their blazer and ties and

10. The Open Championship

with at the Memorial

playing for a blackcurrent

there’s me in jeans and a tee

– just the buzz of it all.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRoseInt.indd 7

9/17/11 6:20 PM

Phuket’s Only Resort-Based 18-Hole Golf Course Designed by Max Wexler and David Abell, Laguna Phuket

Sheraton Grande Phuket, Laguna Beach Resort, Dusit Thani

Golf Course measures 6,654 yards from the back tees and

Laguna Resort, Laguna Holiday Club, Best Western Allamanda

5,464 yards from the forward tees. The award-winning Golf

and Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas. Laguna

Club features a wealth of tropical scenic lagoons and

Phuket’s facilities and activities include five spas, 30

undulating fairways, set against a stunning backdrop of

restaurants and bars, boutique shopping, private charter and

mountains and nearby sea. The golf course is integrated into

join-in luxury tours, daily activities at most hotels, canoeing

the Laguna Phuket resort complex, which comprises the

and sailing, as well as the pristine beaches and azure waters

seven luxury hotel and villa properties of Banyan Tree Phuket,

of the Andaman Sea.

0140_SI_Issue16_LagunaGolf.indd 2

5/26/11 11:53 AM

0140_SI_Issue16_LagunaGolf.indd 3

5/26/11 11:53 AM

The Par 4, 12th hole

Laguna Phuket is easily accessed from

including

functional

services include rental of equipment

any point of the island and is just 20

clubhouse that overlooks the island

such as clubs, shoes, umbrellas and

minutes

ninth

tennis rackets.

from

Phuket

International

a

Thai-style

green. The clubhouse has

Airport. Everything within the resort is

a Pro Shop stocked with all leading

accessed in minutes by complimentary

golf brands, locker rooms with a full

Andy Combe Golf - New training

shuttle buses and water ferries.

range of amenities, the Banyan CafĂŠ

facility at Laguna Phuket

offering

and

Andy Combe Golf offers a perfect location

Open and the 2010 Mercedes-Benz

excellent service, and also three floodlit

to learn and improve your game. With

Masters Thailand, the 18-hole resort

tennis courts, where instruction and

excellent facilities that include a covered

course

ball girl service are available. Other

area for sun and rain protection, a driving

Host of the 2009 Singha Thailand

has

everything

you

need,

outstanding

cuisine

The Par 5, 17th hole

XX

0140_SI_Issue16_LagunaGolf.indd 4

5/26/11 11:53 AM

range, putting greens, practice bunker and chipping areas, so you can work on both your long and short game.

The facility also features teaching and custom fit technologies using GASP Lab software and a Flightscope launch monitor. Combined

with the many

years of experience from the British PGA professionals – the perfect location and complete teaching facility.

Corporate Golf Days What better way to wrap up your company’s corporate retreat or annual conference than to hold a Corporate Golf Day at Laguna Phuket Golf Club? Let us play host while you raise your business

Clubhouse entrance

profile and build relationships with key clients, customers and personnel. Your golf day should be entertaining and memorable, and held at a venue that will enhance your corporate image.

We assist corporate groups of any size. Your golf day can have a lasting impact on your business, so successful organisation, planning and management of such an event is crucial. We offer a wide range of tailored services to help your day go smoothly and efficiently.

The Par 5 18th hole

Laguna Phuket Golf Club 34 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand E-mail: golf@lagunaphuket.com Web: www.lagunaphuketgolf.com Tel: +66 (0)76 270 991/2 Fax: +66 (0)76 324 351 Pro shop

0140_SI_Issue16_LagunaGolf.indd 5

Practice facility

5/26/11 11:53 AM

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 2 generic swing ad.indd 2

9/17/11 6:22 PM PM 9/6/2011 4:52:09

09 PM

JUSTIN ROSE Swing Analysis

by PGA Coach Andy Combe When coaching at my golf school, during many lessons I use swing sequence images and slow-motion video to show the break down of the golf swing to my students.

One swing I refer to many

Set - up - Correct Angles,

times is the one of Justin Rose.

Good Alignment...

In his interview earlier in this

ready to move‌

issue, Justin mentions he has now moved to work with the

Justin Rose has spent many

golf coach Sean Foley. To me,

hours on the practice ground

his swing now looks better

in his golfing career working

than ever and this has

on his set-up angles and

resulted in him winning twice

alignment. To have the ability

on the PGA Tour last year

to play good golf, two points

and he currently stands 35th

are crucial. The body action

in the World Rankings.

[pivot & Rotation] along with the correct use of your arms and hands. Swing faults occur when the arms and hands work independently from your body moves.

Posture is so important.

Maintaining a consistent spine angle throughout the swing creates a good shoulder turn and helps swing the golf club on a correct swing-plane.

Andy Combe

Notice the flex in Justin’s legs - just slightly flexed. Legs that are too straight or too bent create many problems in the golf swing when building up coil and creating resistance.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 3

9/17/11 6:22 PM

The Move-away from the ball Chest, arms, tempo Justin starts his back-swing

Notice how the flex in right

This is a very good move-

to them that the golf swing

with a coordinated move with

leg has been maintained. This

away from the ball for

can be made a lot easier if

his chest, arms, hands, along

is the point in the swing

amateur golfers to try and

they can get in to this

with a good tempo that will

where many amateur golfers

copy. When filming my

position that Justin has

help him set the club in a good

start to straighten the right

students, this is the point in

created in this image.

position later in his swing. The

leg – losing resistance in their

the swing that I will ‘pause’

club-head has moved on a

right side.

the slow-motion video of

swing path that is inside the

their golf swing - explaining

ball-target-line, but at the same time the club-head has stayed outside the hands.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 4

9/17/11 6:22 PM

Club parallel to the floor Stabilized with the right leg

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 5

To the point where the club is

You will find that good swing

beginning of a good hip

parallel to the ground, the

positions become more

rotation while stabilizing

arms remain an extension of

automatic the better your

himself, with the flex in his

the chest and the right arm is

body motion is.

right knee. This is also

starting to soften and fold.

If you look at Justin’s lower

creating resistance in his

body you will see the

right side.

9/17/11 6:22 PM

Half-way point in the back-swing Maintaining spine angle As the body core continues to

At this point the left arm is

Maintaining perfect posture,

rotate, you will see the left

relaxed. Many golfers have the

Justin’s core stability allows

knee point inwards towards

belief that they should keep

himself to set his shaft

the ball while the right knee

their left arm very straight

perfectly on plane. Note the

remains stable.

[rigid] to generate more

white line. The club shaft is

power. Unfortunately this can

pointing inside the ball

cause the opposite results.

position - indicating a good swing plane.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 6

9/17/11 6:22 PM

Top of the back-swing

Full body rotation with maximum torque Justin has maintained his

followed the body rotation

At this point in the swing the

swings are always helped

spine/original posture angle.

around the spine angle

stability [squat position] is

by a solid and athletic lower

Combine that with a complete

resulting in the club being

very noticeable in Justin’s

body action.

90 degree shoulder turn and

parallel to the target.

legs. This has helped

he is in a strong and stable

generate maximum torque

position. The swing plane has

in his swing. The best

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 7

9/17/11 6:22 PM

Starting down

Triggered by ground pressure The swing transition is a very

trunk in the form of a lateral

Justin’s spine angle is still

This is the point in the swing

key area in everyone’s golf

rotation. He is also unwinding

maintained during his move

where his hands and club start

swing. Justin’s down-swing

his upper over good strong

back to the ball and his ability

to really pick up speed.

move is triggered from his

ground pressure - pulling his

to rotate around his stable

arms and hands to generate

body shape makes it easy to

speed through to the

maintain a good swing plane.

club-head.

Point of note Shaft plane

From the position where we looked at Justin half-way back in the swing, you will see how the shaft plane has flattened out [white line] pointing more at the ball.

Note the white line [compared to the position half way back] when the line running through the club-shaft pointed more inside the ball. The club-head is more behind his body.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 8

9/17/11 6:22 PM

Impact position

Ground pressure left side, head behind the ball If you look at Justin’s body

His shoulders are about half as

Ground pressure - Along with

shape here you will see his

open as his hips. Rotation and

the body rotation, you can

trunk has rotated past the ball

power is coming from the

see that the majority of

at the point of impact [with his

ground up - generating club-

Justin’s weight has

head still behind the ball]

head speed [with the driver] of

transitioned to his left foot at

around 110 - 115 MPH.

the impact position.

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 9

9/17/11 6:22 PM

Arms & club release

Maximizing the width of the swing arc The core rotation doesn’t stop

fully release - as an extension

his original ball position and

at the impact position. It

of the body.

has started to rotate towards

continues through the impact

At this point in the swing,

the target.

zone enabling the arms to

Justin’s head is still behind

Swing Sequence images taken by Mark Newcombe Visions in Golf

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 10

9/17/11 6:22 PM

FiniSh PoSiTion

Right shoulder facing the target & body balanced Justin’s excellent body

his weight has moved

target. but most importantly

Practice exercise for good

movement allows him to

completely over to his left

he is balanced, so he can

tempo/balance – next time

reach a perfect finishing

side and like most good

hold this position for as long

you are practising full shots,

position time after time.

players, his belt buckle is

as he wants.

try and hold your finish for 3

Rotation at high speed into

facing slightly left of the

– 4 seconds before bringing

the finish has resulted with

your arms down relaxed in

Justin’s right shoulder

front of your chest.

pointing towards his target.

Andy Combe is the PGA Coach at the Laguna Phuket Golf Club, Phuket, Thailand.

www.andycombe.com

0144_SI_Issue17_JustinRose.indd 11

ANDY

COMBE GOLF

ANDY

9/17/11 6:22 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_CapeSienna.indd 2

9/17/11 6:26 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_CapeSienna.indd 3

9/17/11 6:26 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_SunskrFaldo.indd 2

9/17/11 6:30 PM

47

SAMUELS OF ENGLAND CROWNED FALDO SERIES CHAMPION 2011

G

avin Samuels of England fired a final-round

68 to come from six shots behind and win the fifteenth Faldo Series Grand Final at Lough Erne Resort in Northern Ireland. England’s Brogan Townend won the girls’ title.

“This is by far my biggest achievement in golf,” said a delighted Samuels. “I won the Faldo Commemoration Jug in Sir Nick’s hometown of Welwyn Garden City this season and now I’ve spent time with him and won his Series title. Nick just phoned my dad to tell him the good news.”

Gavin Samuels of England with Sir Nick Faldo

“Gavin is a worthy champion having beaten the weather

of the world’s top young

“Lough Erne Resort is a

“It is this kind of support

and our strongest field ever,”

golfers, boys and girls, aged

special place and I am

which allows us to provide

said Faldo. “All the players

13 to 21. More than 30 local

grateful to them and to The

opportunity to the finalists

benefitted from the experience

schoolchildren also visited

R&A and the European Tour

this week and to the 5,000

this week and the visit from

Lough Erne to meet Faldo and

for their support,” added the

golfers who take part in

our Major Champion Rory

enjoy an introduction to golf.

six-time Major Champion.

the Series worldwide each

McIlroy. I hope they enjoyed

year.” Established in 1996,

themselves, I certainly did.”

35 Faldo Series tournaments now take place in 25 countries worldwide.

Rory McIlroy joined Sir Nick Faldo to give a clinic to

For more information on

competitors. The reigning US

the Faldo Series visit

Open Champion won Faldo

www.nickfaldo.com

Series Under-15 and Under-17 titles in 2004 and 2006

www.facebook.com/

respectively. The 22-year-old

faldoseries

was also a winner at the 2006

Twitter at

Faldo Series International

www.twitter.com/

Trophy in Hong Kong.

faldoseries

A field of 77 players competed and16 different countries were represented by some Rory McIlroy conducts a clinic for competitors

0144_SI_Issue17_SunskrFaldo.indd 3

9/17/11 6:30 PM

48

McIlroy to bring Major Presence to UBS Hong Kong Open “I’m really looking forward to coming back to Hong Kong for the UBS Hong Kong Open,” said McIlroy. “It will be very special to be announced on the first tee as the US Open Champion and hopefully I can bring some of that Congressional form to Hong Kong and give the fans a great show. The UBS Hong Kong Open is one of my favourite tournaments on The ©Getty Images

European Tour. It is such an amazing city with a very

US Open champion Rory

Fresh from his devastating

McIlroy finished in sixth

special energy and every

McIlroy will bring his

performance at Congressional

position behind his Ryder

time I go there I just love the

Major talents to bear upon

Country Club that saw the 22

Cup team mate Ian Poulter

place. It is one of the most fun

the 2011 UBS Hong Kong

year old win the first Major of

last year and 12 months

tournaments on the Schedule

Open after the Northern

his career by an astonishing

previously agonisingly

and the players are looked

Irishman confirmed his

eight-shot margin, McIlroy

missed out after a sudden-

after brilliantly that week”

return to the Hong Kong

was quick to confirm his

death play-off defeat to

Golf Club at Fanling from

return to Hong Kong, one of

Chinese Taipei’s Lin

Full European Tour Schedule

December 1-4.

his favourite cities in the world

Wen-tang.

www.europeantour.com

TOM LEWIS TURNS PROFESSIONAL Tom Lewis, member of the

at Sandwich. It was the lowest

victorious GB&I Walker

round by an amateur in Open

Cup team and winner of the

Championship history and he

2011 Open Championship

finished the winner of the

Silver Medal, has turned

coveted Silver Medal as the

professional and signed

leading amateur.

with IMG. The golfing fraternity are Tom made a huge impact at

eagerly awaiting Tom’s

The Open Championship this

professional debut as he

year at Royal St George’s.

attempts to emulate last year’s

Having qualified via Local

Silver Medal winner, Matteo

Final Qualifying, he opened

Manassero, in securing his

with a five under par 65 to

European Tour Card in just

share the lead on the first day

seven starts.

0144_SI_Issue17_PinkSection.indd 2

Tom with his silver medal at the Open

9/17/11 6:30 PM

49

Construction Begins on Laguna Lang Co in Vietnam Construction has begun on the Faldo Design project at Laguna Lang Co, near Hue. The 18hole golf course on Vietnam’s central coast is on target to open in June 2012.

Appointed by Banyan Tree Holdings, Sir Nick Faldo’s design will form the centre piece of a luxury integrated resort complex situated on

at Laguna Lang Co and look

golf courses in Asia.”

The six-time Major Champion

a 280-hectare beachfront

forward to seeing the course

“We have been given this

added: “The commitment of

site. The project is slated

taking shape over the coming

unique setting and enjoyed

Mr. Nguyen Van Cao and the

for a 2,000-room hotel, spa,

months,” said Michael Ayling,

incorporating all of the natural

Hue’s People’s Committee will

resort residences, convention

Executive Director of the Banyan

dramatic features,” said

ensure that Laguna Lang Co is

facilities, retail centre and

Tree Hospitality Fund. “Sir Nick

Faldo. “It is a gift to have such

a true tourism draw for a very

recreational facilities.

and the Faldo Design team have

diversity in trees, sand dunes,

special region.”

achieved a wonderfully strategic

rice-paddies, rock formations

“We at Banyan Tree are very

layout with an abundance of

and a stunning coastline as a

For more information

excited at the start of the

variety and we are confident that

framework for a strategic golf

on Faldo Design visit

construction of the golf course

we will create one of the leading

course layout.”

www.nickfaldo.com

Westwood, Clarke and McIlroy to play in the Thailand Golf Championship

0144_SI_Issue17_PinkSection.indd 3

World number two Lee

Amata Spring Country Club

Westwood, U.S Open winner

will be the host venue of the

Rory McIlroy and Open

latest championship in the

Champion Darren Clarke will

region where the event will be

play in the season-ending

broadcast live over four days

Thailand Golf Championship at

on the Asian Tour’s global

Amata Spring Country Club

television platform. The winner

in Bangkok.

will receive a cheque of USD

The trio will headline the (USD

158,500 and also a spot in the

1 million) tournament from -

World Golf Championship-

December 15th -18th.

Bridgestone Invitational 2012.

9/17/11 6:30 PM

HOLIDAY INN RESORT PHUKET MAI KHAO BEACH Just the place for you The Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Mai Khao Beach offers the newest international hotel brand to the tranquil northwest coast of Phuket, embracing the pristine and scenic Mai Khao Beach. The hotel’s unique Thai hospitality caters for all types of travelers, from couples on a peaceful romantic getaway to families seeking the perfect holiday.

Located just 15 minutes by highway from Phuket International Airport, the location is very convenient for the busy executive looking for a corporate or weekend trip. For a golfing trip, several world class golf courses are close by including Blue Canyon Country Club and the Mission Hills Golf Resort.

0144_SI_Issue17_HolidayInn.indd 2

9/17/11 6:32 PM

The resort’s 246 rooms each feature the latest in hospitality technology such as LCD flat-screen TV connected to DVD players and I-pod docking stations. The property also offers free wireless Internet in each room and throughout the resort.

With the resort located directly on the beachfront you are ensured a truly memorable stay.

Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Mai Khao Beach

81 Moo 3 Mai Khao, Talang, Phuket 83110, Thailand T: +66 76 603 699 F: +66 76 603 555 www.holidayinnresorts.com/phuketmaikhao

0144_SI_Issue17_HolidayInn.indd 3

9/17/11 6:32 PM

Golf Course - 208/1 Moo2, Sampraya, Cha-Am, Petchburi, Thailand Tel : + 66 32 709 222 E-mail : playgolf@springfieldresort.com. www.springfieldresort.com

0144_SI_Issue17_Springfield.indd 2

9/17/11 6:35 PM

53

Springfield Royal Country Club Designed by Jack Nicklaus and developed from 1991 – 1993, this championship course is one of the best-maintained courses and was ranked top 10 best golf courses in Thailand by Golf Digest.

0144_SI_Issue17_Springfield.indd 3

The Springfield Royal Country

from, offers varying degrees

Club presents the golfer

of difficulty that accentuate

with 27 beautifully designed,

the dramatic lush landscape.

landscaped golf holes - a true

Be prepared for some long

Jack Nicklaus masterpiece.

carries if you are brave

The championship course,

enough to play from the

with five sets of tees to play

back tees.

9/17/11 6:35 PM

58

Druh Belts & Buckles has been selected as the Official Belt Supplier to the European and U.S. Teams for The 2011 Solheim Cup which takes place from September 23-25 this year at Killeen Castle in Ireland.

Whilst Druh Belts & Buckles

who is co-designing the USA

are already worn by some

belts with Druh. “A lot of the

of the world’s top golfers

girls on tour already wear

both on and off the course,

Druh Belts so I am sure they

the brand is delighted to

will be delighted that part

have the honour of supplying

of the team uniform is being

both teams for The Solheim

supplied by Druh”

Cup with its unique belts as the bi-annual competition is

Available through the internet at

the most prestigious team

www.druhbeltsandbuckles.com

event in women’s golf. “A

golfers can design their own

great deal of thought and

unique belt by choosing their

attention is given to the

own belt and buckle

design of the team outfits

combination. Every Druh Belt

for leather and guarantees

19-25. In addition to founding

for The Solheim Cup as it’s

comes with a complimentary

that the snakes used in

sponsor PING, Global

important that each and

standard Druh buckle which

production are not a

Partners of The Solheim Cup

every member of the team

can be easily interchanged

protected species.

include Golf Ireland and Rolex.

feels comfortable and likes

with the wearer’s buckle of

what they are wearing,”

choice. Druh Belts retail at

The 2011 Solheim Cup will

For more information, log on

commented Rosie Jones, the

circa US$200/£125 for

be played at Killeen Castle in

to www.SolheimCup.com

U.S. Team Captain for 2011,

snakeskin and $125/£79

County Meath, Ireland, Sept.

Ian Poulter

n & Loch Palm

Laguna Phuket

be – Visions in Golf Golf Club

The new Sunseek

er 40 m Yacht

swingimage.co.u k

e • issue 12 • M a r c h-M M aG a z i n

MAG AZIN

Golf & l ifestyle

GOL F & LIFES TYLE

swingimage.co.u k

STOKE PARK SOPHIE HO LAGUNA PH RN UKET ANDY COMB E MATTEO MA NASERRO

ay 2 0 1 0

E • ISSUE 14 • DEC– FEB 2011

2011 E • ISSUE 16 • JUNE –AUG MAG AZIN

– Plane Truth

Red Mountai

Sai Taan Villas Mark Newcom

tty Images

GOL F & LIFES TYLE

Visit swingimage.co.uk to view all the back issues of Swing Image. Plus links to golf videos, swing sequences, player interviews and all the latest golfing news.

– IJP Design

George Porter

GOLF PHOTOGRA FROM AR PHY OUND THE WORL D

BY DAVID CANNON Ge

Mar-April 2010.indd

1

Greg Norman - Aviation The Legend Golf & Safari Resort Black Mounta in Golf Club Peter Alliss Interview BMW 5-Serie s Gran Turismo Stoke Park Course & Movies Knightsbridge Golf School Anthony Kim - Interview Camilo Villegas - Swing

www.swingimage

.co.uk

23/2/10 1:50:26 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_PinkSection.indd 4

9/17/11 6:39 PM

THE CHOICE OF CHAMPIONS

X

NUMBER ONE BELT ON TOUR

www.druhbeltsandbuckles.com

0144_SI_Issue17_PinkSection.indd 5

9/17/11 6:39 PM

GLP48

GLP83

GLP89

WWW.GARDENISLANDPHUKET.COM INFO@GARDENISLANDPHUKET.COM Residential & Commercial Sales +66 (0)81 719 6088 Residential & Holiday Rentals +66 (0)89 649 8703 Phuket Tel +66 (0)76 323 040

0144_SI_Issue17_GardenIsland.indd 2

9/17/11 6:40 PM

GLP88

GLP85

GLP82

WWW.GARDENISLANDPHUKET.COM INFO@GARDENISLANDPHUKET.COM Residential & Commercial Sales +66 (0)81 719 6088 Residential & Holiday Rentals +66 (0)89 649 8703 Phuket Tel +66 (0)76 323 040

0144_SI_Issue17_GardenIsland.indd 3

9/17/11 6:40 PM

0144_SI_Issue17_AlpineGC2.indd 2

9/17/11 6:43 PM

63

Alpine Golf Club Bangkok, Thailand.

Alpine Golf Club was created by one of America’s leading golf course architects, Ronald M. Garl. Helped from his experience of creating hilly layouts from flat terrains in Florida, U.S.A, the designer took the challenge of building grass covered hills on the vast flatlands.

Once the site of rice paddy

experience. The clubhouse

fields, the picturesque golf

facilities, locker rooms, and 2

course features changing

restaurants (a coffee corner

elevations, lightening fast

and gourmet International

greens and undulating

restaurant) are all excellent

fairways, making it one of

with service to match.

the most challenging golf courses in Bangkok.

Tel: + 66 [02] 577 3333 For further information visit -

The member’s only golf

www.alpinegolfclub.com

club hosted the 2000 Johnnie Walker Classic, won by Tiger Woods and again hosted the event in 2004, won by Miguel Angel Jimenez.

Golfers privileged to play at Alpine Golf Club will have an unforgettable

0144_SI_Issue17_AlpineGC2.indd 3

9/17/11 6:43 PM

Darren Clarke Interview - Paul Mahoney

0144_SI_Issue17_DarrenClarkeInt.indd 2

9/17/11 6:44 PM

65 How does it feel to be the

(the media) on the Monday

You once said you thought

Open champion?

morning (Clarke was still

your public image was that

How did you manage to

It has been a whirlwind.

drunk and hadn’t been to

of “a normal bloke who

block out your emotions at

Thursday morning after the

bed, like Freddie post Ashes

liked a pint of Guinness.”

St George’s?

Open was the first time I had

victory party in 2005).

Yes, that’s just me. People

My only thoughts were about

seem to like me. I haven’t

the next shot. Until I got onto

changed have I? (smiles)

the 17th tee and I had a four-

any time to myself. I drove

everyone has been wonderful.

my Range Rover to Belfast to

Where did the party

sort out my US visa. Had the

rumble on to from

jug on the passenger seat

Sandwich?

Do you realise how popular

right just be a little sensible

and ACDC blasting out of the

I went to a local bar at home

your victory is for normal

here, protect this lead and

sound system.

in Portrush on Monday. Then

people…?

don’t do anything stupid.

shot lead. Then I was thinking,

Tuesday there was a party

(Interrupts) Ah, the anti-

That was quite a three-

at Royal Portrush golf club

athletic poster boy, oh yes.

Is that the moment

day party you had after

during the day and another

I’m not your stereotypical

you knew you were

winning at Royal St

at night in a wine bar where

golfing athlete that is rolling

going to win?

George’s.

I met up with Rory McIlroy

off the production line now. I

No. The first time I realised I

Everyone was very excited

and Graeme McDowell.

suppose I’m a little bit different.

was going to win was when

on Sunday night and wanted

Then I went off to London on

So people do identify with

I was walking up the 18th

to have a drink with me.

Wednesday to pick up a very

me and that’s great. But do I

fairway and knew I had four

That’s fine. It was a wonderful

nice cheque from Dunlop (£2

realise how popular my victory

puts from the edge of the

Freddie Flintoff moment when

million bonus for winning a

has been? Not at all. But the

green. The worse thing you

I had to speak to you guys

major). Then back to Portrush.

reception I have had from

can do is get ahead of yourself.

0144_SI_Issue17_DarrenClarkeInt.indd 3

9/17/11 6:44 PM

66 even now. I’ve been here, there and everywhere.

Did you think your chances to win had passed you by?

At some point the kids come though and there’s none of us getting any younger. I am 42. But my ball striking has always been good when I’m on. I practised a lot at Portrush from the back tees to get ready for the Open.

Moving back to Northern Ireland from London helped me. I remember saying to Chubby (Chubby Chandler, his manager), discussing whether I should go to the Scottish Open, that I don’t have many chances left to win the Open and I want to prepare properly.

But you shot a 75 in the final round of the Scottish Open, the joint worst score of the day, and left in a huff.

I was livid. So infuriated by what I did. I had a bad day but before that I had been hitting the ball well. But I had no inkling of what would happen at the Open.

You were allocated a locker at St George’s in the area reserved for former champions. Do you believe Did the pressure of

the K Club in 2006. That was

St George’s staring at the

in fate?

playing in the 2006

pressure. That wasn’t just

claret jug.

That was totally weird. I

Ryder Cup help? (Clarke

pressure for me. It was pressure

I wasn’t looking at any names

got to locker No.57 and I’m

played at the K Club just

performing for my peers.

on it. I was just thinking I can’t

looking around and Tom

believe I’m holding this, the

Watson’s is next to me, and

six weeks after his wife Heather died of cancer.)

There is a fabulous

Open Championship Claret

Justin Leonard’s and Ernie

Without a shadow of a doubt.

photograph of you sitting

Jug. It was all a blur. I’ve had

Els’. I thought, ‘What the hell

Nothing will ever replicate

alone in the locker room at

no time to look at the names

am I doing in here?’ And then

0144_SI_Issue17_DarrenClarkeInt.indd 4

9/17/11 6:44 PM

67

on Sunday someone said do you know you’ve got Greg Norman’s locker (the Aussie won at St George’s in 2003) because he pulled out?

Is it fair to say your selfconfessed short fuse has often been your downfall?

I have been ready to hold my hands up and admit it. There was a period when I gave myself airs and graces and I was a bit horrible. A lot of that was not intentional. It was just my determination and desire and getting annoyed that I wasn’t achieving what I felt I could. But still, looking back, it doesn’t make me feel that good at the way I was. But people mature at different ages. It has taken me a long time.

0144_SI_Issue17_DarrenClarkeInt.indd 5

9/17/11 6:44 PM

68 If you had ended your career without a major, would you have felt something was missing?

Would I have been annoyed and disappointed without winning a major? Yes. I have always felt I have enough talent to win at least one major.

Now that you have done it, is there is a danger of thinking, ‘Job done’?

Yeah, totally, give up, that’s enough. I don’t know if there are any more majors in me but I’d like to put myself into position to find out.

You know how good you are, right?

Yes. But I keep that to myself.

It’s not my way to shout from the rooftops about it. But I know when I play well I’m a pretty good golfer. Playing well regularly was something I maybe lost until recently. I was very poor at accepting average. Consequently I kept beating myself up. Did I ever get really annoyed with the game? Yes. Really annoyed and fed up with it.

You must have a lot of sympathy for your mate Lee Westwood.

I feel for Lee. He has gone close so many times. The game is fickle. It hammers you then it gives you something. Right now it’s Have you mellowed

family and friends has been

granted so much. I’m not

tough on Lee with Rory

with age?

huge. My boys are day boys

so brash. I think about the

winning and then me winning.

I have calmed down more.

at school now and I see them

other point of view instead

It’s just getting older. Moving

in the evenings at home.

of jumping down people’s

back to Portrush among

And I don’t take things for

throats like I used to.

0144_SI_Issue17_DarrenClarkeInt.indd 6

9/17/11 6:44 PM

69 What’s next for you?

I need to sit down and figure out what my goals are. Because I’ve tried to win that trophy since I was a kid and now I’ve done it - I need to reassess. Whether that’s to win more majors or not, I don’t know. I’m going to have a good long think about it. I never thought I was getting towards the end of my career because I lost a lot of my mid-thirties when I wasn’t competing. I have a wonderful opportunity now to keep playing in the biggest tournaments until I am 47.

Ryder Cup captaincy must

after winning the US Open in

“It wasn’t just that he won, it

everybody else away. There

be a certainty now. How

June. But he was back looking

was the way that he won (by

are very few players who have

about 2016 for the away

mortal after being blown away

eight shots). He just ripped

the talent to destroy that field

match? You’ll be 48.

in the storms at the Open and

the course apart and blew

like he did.”

That’s up to the selection

stating that he couldn’t wait

committee. But if that were the

to get back to the sunshine

case it would be an honour.

of the US Tour. “He said that

Whatever they would offer me,

more in frustration,” Clarke

I would do.

said. “He had just stepped off the course and was annoyed.

Are you pressing the R&A

You’ve got to remember he’s

to take the Open back to

still only 22. He doesn’t need

Royal Portrush for the first

to change his game for links

time since 1951?

golf. He’s shot 61 around at

I hope the R&A can look on

Royal Portrush. He’s got all the

the logistics because the golf

shots. He just doesn’t always

course is sensational. It’s as

hit them.” Clarke said he

good as any we have on the

would be having a quiet word

Open rota. The Americans

with McIlroy. “I try to tell him

would love it. It would be

the rights things. I would like

wonderful.

to think he listens sometimes,” Clarke said smiling. “His

Darren on Rory

name will be on that Claret Jug

Darren Clarke first met Rory

before too long.” Clarke has

McIlroy when the 22-year-old

no doubt McIlroy will become

was 12. Clarke said he only

a history maker. “Because he

had to watch McIlroy hit one

has so much talent and the

shot to know he had found a

way he won the US Open at

genius. He was hailed as one

Congressional,” Clarke said.

0144_SI_Issue17_DarrenClarkeInt.indd 7

9/17/11 6:45 PM

X

The Royal Gems Golf City 0144_SI_Issue17_RoyalGems.indd 2

The Royal Gems Golf City is inspired by the love for the game and passion to create the world’s largest pure golf city to share with real golfers around the globe.

9/17/11 6:46 PM

Phase one the Dream Arena,

in golfing history. The

even the temporary

amidst the surroundings

unique combination of

clubhouse demonstrates

and atmosphere inspired

uncompromising luxury in

the caliber this golf course

by the greatest holes from

resort facilities and service

is destined to become.

around the world. Gloriously

and centrally located near

The driving range features

representing the Pride of

Bangkok, this will be the

a grass hitting area, two

Thailand, The Royal Gems

most sought-after golf resort

practice chipping greens and

Golf City is meant to be

for Thai and international

a separate putting green.

the most fulfilling and

golfers. Whilst the facilities

www.royalgemsgolfcity.com Email: sales@royalgemsgolfcity.com

challenging golf journey

are not entirely completed,

Telephone: +662-235-8401-3

0144_SI_Issue17_RoyalGems.indd 3

9/17/11 6:46 PM

White Box The White Box is a vibrant mix of high class eatery and a cool music lounge, resting on the sands of Kalim Beach just north of Patong. Elegant white dĂŠcor, with splashes of blue, reflect its proximity to the ocean and the minimalist style makes for a relaxed uncluttered feel. The restaurant boasts a location which is nothing short of breathtaking, with unobstructed views over the bay and the ocean waves almost crashing at your feet.

0144_SI_Issue17_WhiteBox.indd 2

9/17/11 6:47 PM

The roof top lounge bar is the ideal place to unwind whilst

White Box has international chefs and the cuisine is

watching the sun set over Patong Bay and a haven in which to

predominantly Mediterranean, using the finest local and

chill out, listen - and perhaps dance to the music after a gourmet

imported ingredients with a hint of contemporary Thai style

dinner. The fully stocked bar offers a delicious assortment of

in the presentation. Complimenting the European culinary

cocktails, spirits, wines and Champagnes.

influences on the menu are Thai dishes prepared and presented

Dinner can be taken inside, or al fresco on the terrace

the traditional way.

lodged on the beachside rocks. Select a wine from the

Visit the White Box for dinner or drinks at the bar, or be

comprehensive list, or go down to the wine room and pick out

welcome to spend the whole evening enjoying the complete

a bottle yourself from the beautifully appointed cave.

dining experience.

247/5 Prabaramee Road, Kalim Beach, Patong, Phuket Contact/Reservation Tel: 076 346 271 or 076 680 410 www.whiteboxphuket.com

0144_SI_Issue17_WhiteBox.indd 3

9/17/11 6:47 PM

This year marks Sandy Lane’s 50th Anniversary and to this day is still the Caribbean’s premier address. Sandy Lane offers some of the best golf in the world with three courses, The Old Nine, The Country Club and the world-renowned Green Monkey: a Tom Fazio creation carved from an old stone quarry which is exclusive to Sandy Lane guests.

Whichever course you play, you will be captivated by the natural beauty of the terrain and the views of Barbados’ platinum coast.

0144_SI_Issue17_GreenMonkey.indd 2

9/17/11 6:48 PM

75

The Green Monkey Sandy Lane, Barbados.

T

he Green Monkey,

Constructed in 1961, The Old

designed by Tom Fazio,

Nine course is the oldest course

is the most exclusive 72 par,

at the resort. At 3,345 yards, par

7,343-yard golf course on

36, The Old Nine, is intimate yet

the island. Carved from an

demanding because of its small

old limestone quarry, the

greens and tight tree-lined

exposed rock faces form

fairways. This particular golf

dramatic contrasts to the

course is a favourite with repeat

greens of the fairways and

guests to the property.

offer tremendous elevation change – a once in a lifetime

There are many features that

experience not to be missed.

distinguish golfing at Sandy Lane from anywhere else in the

With lush greens, five lakes,

Caribbean . One of the unique

and cut fairways, The Country

features is the golf carts at

Club course is a golfer’s

The Country Club and Green

paradise. Also designed by

Monkey – they are equipped

Tom Fazio, this challenging

with state-of-the-art GPS

72 par, 7,060-yard course

tracking via global satellite,

affords breathtaking views of

and provide a 3-dimentional

the Caribbean Sea . The 2006

display of each hole while

World Golf Championships

giving distances in yards to

Barbados World Cup

each bunker, the front, middle,

unfolded here. Located at The

back and pin of the greens.

Country Club is the expansive

The caddies at the courses

450-yard Driving Range . The

are also true representations

two-sided North and South

of Barbadian personalities –

tees offer golfers the exciting

warm, friendly, knowledgeable

challenge of practicing hitting

and fun-loving.

against the trade winds. On the south side of the range

For more information visit:

golfers will also find a practice

www.sandylane.com

bunker. Wrapping itself

Sandy Lane St. James,

around the western side of

Barbados,

the Clubhouse, the practice

West Indies BB24024

putting green overlooks the

Tel: +1 (246) 444-2000

1st, 9th and 18th greens.

0144_SI_Issue17_GreenMonkey.indd 3

9/17/11 6:48 PM

76

Leopard Creek Designed by Gary Player, Leopard Creek borders the picturesque Crocodile River and the Kruger National Park. Membership is by invitation only and members include the likes of Ernie Els and Jack Nicklaus. Remodeling of the course took place at the turn of the century with a change of grass on the greens to bent and the installation of sub-air systems. Golfing hazards take on a new dimension at Leopard Creek for much of the water is home to Hippos and the creature for which the adjacent river is named - Crocodile.

www.leopardcreek.co.za 0144_SI_Issue17_LeopardCreek.indd 2

9/17/11 6:49 PM

77

Giraffes cross the 18th fairway - with the clubhouse overlooking the island green in the background

0144_SI_Issue17_LeopardCreek.indd 3

9/17/11 6:49 PM

0140_SI_Issue16_BTP.indd 2

5/26/11 11:44 AM

0140_SI_Issue16_BTP.indd 3

5/26/11 11:44 AM

generic swing ad.indd 1

8/25/2011 3:26:46 PM