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2018 Ryder Cup Preview & Predictions

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HONG KONG GOLF ASSOCIATION VOTED THE REGION’S NO 1 GOLF MAGAZINE

ISSUE 139

HKGOLFER.COM SEPTEMBER 2018

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THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW

TAICHI KHO HK JUNIOR OPEN CHAMP DISPLAY UNTIL 15 OCT

PLUS: U.S. PGA CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW

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| CONTENTS

HK Golfer Issue 139

September 2018

24 On the Cover:

Taichi Kho topped a field that featured 81 junior golfers, 24 of whom were from overseas. The 2016 champion finished with a total of 209 to take victory and reclaim the national Open title.

Photography by Daniel Wong

Features

Plus…

24 | HK Junior Open

10 | Divots

Championship Review Hong Kong’s Taichi Kho wins his second national Junior Open title at the Discovery Bay Golf Club in threee years.

By Louie Chan

28 | U.S. PGA Championship Review Brooks Koepka completed a double-dip at the 100th U.S. PGA Championship to become the first golfer since Jordan Spieth in 2015 to win two Majors in one year.

By Louie Chan

34 | The Open Championship Review Francesco Molinari becomes the first Italian to win a Major golf title at Carnoustie.

By Louie Chan

40 | It’s Not All About Winning The Kilted Caddie recalls his time with Chubby Chandler and Darren Clarke on the Tuesday practice day of The Open Championship.

By The Kilted Caddie ©Rolex/Chris Turvey

46 | 2018 Ryder Cup

Preview & Predictions

34 6

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

With the small gold cup firmly in the grip of the USA, Europe may have its work cut out to regain the coveted trophy.

By Mike Wilson

News and events from Hong Kong and the region.

By The Editors

12 | In Focus A pictorial review of the last 30 days from around the world.

By The Editors

19 | Tee Time After winning the 100th U.S. PGA Championship, Brooks Koepka was presented with an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M.

By The Editors

23 | Around the HKGA Dr Brian Hemmings talks about how sports psychology can help elite junior golfers developing metal skills.

Interview by Louie Chan

54 | Asian Angle Justin Rose, the defending WGC-HSBC Champion, talks about his triumph last year and how to defend his roll of honour.

By Chuah Choo Chiang

60 | Tour Insider What a week it turned out to be in the 2018 Fiji International, a place called Paradise.

By Calvin Koh HKGOLFER.COM

, Mak Lok Li

HK Golfer

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HONG KONG GOLF ASSOCIATION SEPTEMBER 2018 • Issue 139

Managing Editor: Louie Chan louie.chan@hkgolfer.com Contributors: Dr Milton Wayne, Faye Glasgow John Bruce, Nathan Goulding Keith McLaren, Mike Wilson, Mak Lok Lin, Chuah Choo Chiang, Calvin Koh Art Director: Derek Hannah Photo Editor: Daniel Wong Administration Manager Cindy Kwok Publisher: Charles McLaughlin Published by:

TIMES INTERNATIONAL CREATION

Whistling Straits - Irish Course - Hole 11 “Lamb Chop”

Times International Creation Limited 10B Lockhart Centre 301-307 Lockhart Road Hong Kong Phone: +852 3590-4153 Fax: +852 3590-4533

D E PA R T M E N T S 10 Divots 12 Global Focus 14 Asia Focus 16 China Focus 19 Clubhouse 23 Around the HKGA 40 The Kilted Caddie 56 Asian Angle 60 Tour Insider

Image courtesy of Destination Kohler

62 Travel Feature

In association with: thymedesign.hk Advertising: For advertising information, please contact: ads@hkgolfer.com For purchasing information contact: sales@hkgolfer.com For subscription information contact: subs@hkgolfer.com Hong Kong Golf Association Suite 2003, Olympic House 1 Stadium Path, So Kon Po Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Phone (General): +852 2504-8659 Fax: +852 2845-1553 Phone (Handicaps): +852 2504-8197 Fax: +852 2504-8198 Email: info@hkga.com handicaps@hkga.com

CORRECTION: In the article “Rise of The Rolex New Guard” on page 59 in the previous issue, the image caption has misidentified Anna Nordqvist as Brooke Henderson. HK Golfer apologises for the mistake.

HK GOLFER is published by Times International Creation, 10B Lockhart Centre, 301-307 Lockhart Road, Hong Kong.

HK GOLFER is published monthly © 2018 by Times International Creation. Published in Hong Kong. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. PRINTED IN HONG KONG. 8

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| DIVOTS

Andrew Putnam Wins MetLife MatchUp Fan Vote

PGA Tour

The PGA TOUR and MetLife, Inc., announced that Andrew Putnam won the 2018 MetLife MatchUp fan vote and the $750,000 prize for his charity of choice, the College Golf Fellowship.

Put na m, who won his f irst PGA TOUR event t he Barracuda Championship on August 5 - the same day that voting began for the MetLife MatchUp - kept the good vibes going by calling on a large social media network to encourage fans to vote for him and his support for the College Golf Fellowship.

“I can’t thank my fans and fellow supporters of the College Golf Fellowship enough for all that they’ve done,” said Putnam. “It has been an amazing month. I not only fulfilled a dream by winning my first PGA TOUR event at the Barracuda Championship, but I was able to donate US$750,000 to a charity that is very dear to me by winning the MetLife MatchUp. I look forward to the 2019 MetLife MatchUp and trying to qualify again.”

The MetLife MatchUp is a season-long competition spanning 13 select PGA TOUR events. At each of those tournaments, it pitted two players against one another in a fan vote to determine who successfully navigated a tough situation on the golf course. A player was crowned at each designated tournament, scoring US$20,000 for his charity of choice while advancing to the final vote. The contest culminated with fans voting the grand prize winner and donating US$750,000 to his chosen charity.

Bubba Watson won the inaugural MetLife MatchUp in 2017. Stay tuned to PGATOUR.COM/MetLife for additional details on the 2019 MetLife MatchUp program.

Macau, Zhuhai and HK to Host Final Three Events of PGA TOUR Series-China Season

Image courtesy of The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club

PGA TOUR Series-China’s fourth season will conclude with a flourish in October, as the Series announced its final three tournaments of 2018 will take place in cities along the Pearl River Delta that are set to be linked by a major bridge and tunnel system.

Macau, Zhuhai and Hong Kong will host the Series’ concluding events, tournaments that will help determine the top-five finishers on the Order of Merit, those who will earn status for the 2019 Web.com Tour, the path to the PGA TOUR. Caesars Golf Macau will kick off the three-week swing when it stages the Macau Championship from September 27-30 in the Tour’s first visit to “Las Vegas of the East.” Macau will join Hong Kong as the two cities outside Mainland China to host a Tour event.

The Orient Golf Club will again be the site of a Tour event when it stages the Zhuhai Championship (October 4-7) before The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club in Hong Kong 10

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

hosts the Clearwater Bay Open for a third consecutive year (October 11-14) in the season-ending showdown at the seaside course.

The timing of this finish will be perfect as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge is likely to open around this time and will offer an exciting opportunity to pay homage to what will become the world’s largest sea-crossing—spanning roughly 55 kilometers (34 miles) to connect the three major cities. The bridgetunnel system consists of one undersea tunnel and three cable-stayed bridges.

The PGA TOUR established PGA TOUR Series-China in 2014 as its third international tour, following in the footsteps of PGA TOUR Latinoamerica and the Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada. Since its inception, PGA TOUR Series-China players have received Official World Golf Ranking points for top finishes at official tournaments.

HKGOLFER.COM

| DIVOTS

The Shark’s Vietnamese Triumvirate When K N Golf Links Cam Ranh opens on Vietnam’s south-central coast this fall, it will mark the third Greg Norman layout in a country that ten years ago didn’t possess a single one.

But a lot can happen in a decade, and a lot has in Vietnam, which is now widely considered the premier golf destination in all of Asia thanks in large part to the influx of brand-name courses that have opened since 2008.

The Shark’s first two tracks in Vietnam - The Dunes at BRG Da Nang Golf Resort and The Bluffs at Ho Tram Strip - are undoubtedly among the best of recent vintage. One need only peek into each club’s trophy case for evidence. How will KN Golf Links Cam Ranh fit into the mix?

Splendidly, according to the acclaimed architect.

“I think they complement each other very well,” said Norman, who has several other projects in the works in Vietnam. “The course in Da Nang is probably the most player friendly. The Bluffs is dramatic, with really big sand dunes. And KN Golf Links is the best from a playability standpoint. It will appeal to a wide range of players.”

Scheduled to open in October, the next linksstyle Norman experience sits at the southernmost end of a long and gently curving sweep of

exquisite white sand that is fast becoming the setting for some of Vietnam’s top luxury hotels. The course itself dips and dives through wild, undulating terrain and offers a number of remarkable viewpoints.

“The scale and topography of the property here lends itself beautifully to a great variety of golf holes,” Norman said during a site visit in March 2018. “There’s a lot of up and down and natural contouring to the course, so you get these sensational visuals from tee boxes especially and really cool run-off areas where the ball can roll and turn.”

Global Focus Tiger Says Winless 2018 Season Still Ranks Best Ever Tiger Woods has been close to winning multiple times this season with five top 10s and two runner-up finishes. While he’s still winless over the last five years, he said this season would rank among his best regardless of how it ends.

“No doubt. No doubt,” Woods said. “I wasn’t thinking about the Tour, and now I’m contending in major championships and have had a chance to win a couple of major championships.

Man, it’s so special to have this opportunity again.”

At 79 career wins, Woods is just three back of Sam Snead’s all-time record. With another major win, he would move three back of Jack Nicklaus’ record 18 victories. With the way he’s been playing lately, 18 career majors are no longer out of the question.

It sounds like he’s intent on catching Snead shortly.

Photo by AFP/Getty Images

Asia Focus Pan’s Wife Retired from Caddying After Wyndham Championship Taiwanese PGA TOUR Pro C.T. Pan needed a replacement caddie at the Wyndham Championship in late August. So, he turned to the person he could most trust: His wife, Michelle.

Whatever she did, it helped: Pan finished tied for second behind winner Brandt Snedeker.

Pan tied for the lead at 20-under par on the 72nd hole, and just an errant tee shot resulted in a double-bogey six and finalround 65. That was Pan’s best finish of the 2017-18 season.

The last player on TOUR to win with wife as the caddie was Patrick Reed at the 2013 Wyndham Championship.

However, it turns out this pairing - as caddie and player, not as man and wife - is shortlived. “Been asked by many questions about my caddie (wife) last week. Would like to answer them all in this post. 1: She is retired from caddying and ended her career on a high note. 2: I have a caddy for the next couple events,” tweeted Pan after the Wyndham Championship.

Photo by AFP/Getty Images

China Focus Campbell Claims First Pro title at Beijing Championship Canada’s Peter Campbell shot a closing 70 to hold off China’s Huilin Zhang and win his first pro title at the RMB 1.5 million Beijing Championship. Campbell, 35, is the third Canadian to win on Tour, following 2015 winners Justin Shin and Eugene Wong.

The left-hander held a twostroke lead after the second and third rounds at Topwin Golf and Country Club, and finished 17-under, just one ahead of playing partner Zhang (68), a winner on the Tour in 2015 and 2016.

Campbell, who previously played on the Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada and PGA TOUR Latinoamerica, had even considered withdrawing ahead of the Beijing Championship after missing the cut in the previous two events but decided to play with a “no-care attitude” at Topwin that helped him cope with the pressure of leading.

“It worked. I don’t know how I did it. I mean, nothing really phased me out there. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever done before, so definitely something to think about going forward,” said Campbell.

Photo by PGA TOUR Series-China/ Zhuang Liu

CLUB

Away from the Fairways | TEE TIME

PASSION FOR GOLF SINCE 2011, OMEGA HAS BEEN AN OFFICIAL PATRON OF THE PGA OF AMERICA, A ROLE WHICH HAS ENFORCED THE BRAND’S COMMITMENT TO THE GROWTH OF GOLF. AFTER WINNING THE 100TH U.S. PGA CHAMPIONSHIP AT BELLERIVE COUNTRY CLUB FOR HIS THIRD MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORY, BROOKS KOEPKA WAS PRESENTED WITH AN OMEGA SEAMASTER AQUA TERRA 150M

BY PGA OF AMERICA PRESIDENT PAUL LEVY Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M HKGOLFER.COM

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

19

Omega concludes its week-long activation on-site at the 100th U.S. PGA Championship at Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis

O

n-site at the U.S. PGA Championship, Omega provided spectators with an interactive photo opportunity at the digital selfie wall in T he Championship Shops featuring life-size images of McIlroy, Garcia and Fleetwood. The digital images of these ambassadors spoke to fans entering the tent encouraging them to take a selfie with them.

T he Ome ga On -site Boutique inside The Championship Shops provided fans with a chance to tr y on and purchase Omega products.

“It’s always such a great privilege to be an Official Patron at this prestigious Major. This year, we’ve experienced the wonderful hospitality here in St. Louis and saw competitive golf at its best. Omega congratulates all the players and looks forward to seeing them again in New York next May for the 101st PGA Championship,” commented Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of Omega.

Omega’s Seamaster Aqua Terra has always provided the per fec t balance bet ween sophistication and ocean spirit. In the new Master Chronometer collection, some of the most popular features have been enhanced or subtly transformed to give the timepiece an

20

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

added edge of style and a refreshing new look.

The first notable change can be found in the Aqua Terra’s teak concept dial. Modelled after the decks of luxury yachts, it is one of the watch’s most defining features. For this collection, the teak pattern now runs horizontally, as opposed to vertically. The date window has been moved from 3 to 6 o’clock to add symmetry to the design and also in tribute to the design of the Automatic Seamaster Calendar from 1952 - the first Omega watch with a date window.

To maximise this idea of symmetry, the cases have been reshaped for a The first notable change can be found in the Aqua Terra’s teak concept dial

HKGOLFER.COM

beautifully balanced look. If the dial appears cleaner and simpler, that’s because Omega has taken away the “water-resistance” wording and engraved it on the caseback instead. A new conical crown completes the makeover, inspired by the wave-edge design found on the caseback.

For now, three of the new models are presented. The first is a 41mm model made from stainless steel and 18K Sedna™ gold. It features a silvery dial with black hands and indexes as well as a black rubber strap, new to the Aqua Terra, which is aesthetically integrated into the design of the case by an 18K Sedna™ gold link.

“Omega’s Seamaster Aqua Terra has always provided the perfect balance between sophistication and ocean spirit.”

The 38mm model is presented in pure stainless steel with a deep blue dial and rhodiumplated hands and indexes

The 41mm stainless steel model on a brown leather strap includes a silvery dial with black hands and indexes and a varnished orange seconds hand. There is an orange “Seamaster” inscription on the dial, complemented by orange numbering on the minute track at the 15, 30, 45 and 60 second points - the four cardinal points linked with sailing navigation and the traditional compass.

The 38mm model is presented in pure stainless steel with a deep blue dial and rhodium-plated hands and indexes.

Importantly, Omega has again achieved a better integration between the case and bracelet. Not only does this improve the aesthetics, but it also provides a better fit for wearers with slim wrists.

Turning the watches over reveals a waveedged caseback design with sapphire-crystal through which you can see the Omega Master Chronometer calibre 8900 or 8800.

These impressive movements, along with each watch, have reached the highest level of certification for precision and performance as approved by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). The watches come with Omega’s full 4-year warranty.

Right: Some of the most popular features have been enhanced or subtly transformed to give the timepiece an added edge of style and a refreshing new look HKGOLFER.COM

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

21

HONG KONG GOLF ASSOCIATION

The Mind of Winners Louie Chan talks to renowned sports psychologist Dr Brian Hemmings, who has recently completed his third trip to HK to work with players on the HKGA Junior Talent team and those selected for the Asian Games and World Amateur Team Championships in Ireland.

Dr Hemmings runs Masterclasses for sports psychologists and golf coaches around the world

Image courtesy of Dr Brian Hemmings

Louie Chan: How would you conclude your third trip to HK? Dr Brian Hemmings: The receptiveness of HK players to psychological support work has been excellent. I can see there is a developing base of talent, with very good attitudes to learning and development. I feel this bodes well for the performance of HKGA players in years to come.

LC: How do you profile top players? What are the common qualities they all share?

BM: Early in my career I would have used a set prof iling system.

However, after 25 years of working, I now simply listen to and observe players. I did some research with a South A frican company a few years ago that ‘benchmarked’ certain qualities. Whilst all players have individual traits, the research showed that the best players had high levels of discipline, kept their approach to the game very simple, were quickminded, took responsibility for their games, and were very resilient.

LC: How importance of discipline in developing elite golfers? Can you give us some examples of top players you have worked with?

BM: It sounds obvious that high levels of self-discipline are required to succeed. In my experience, the best are also very good at taking

HKGOLFER.COM

discipline from others too. Those ‘others’ are usually their coaches. You see this time and time again with top players, they are very clear about who they listen to, and are very disciplined in following instruction when working on their own.

LC: How to simplify information when you coach your players?

BM: I like to speak in very plain language. I don’t over intellectualise psychology in the words I use. I have a very ‘down to earth’ approach that players seem to relate to. I like to think of my work as a conversation with a purpose, so players really feel like t hey are just having a chat. Too many times psychologists can bewilder players with jargon.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 74 ...

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23

Kho Reclaims HK Junior Open Championship Title Hong Kong’s Taichi Kho reclaimed the national Junior Open title.

The 2016 champion finished with a total of 209 to take victory at the Discovery Bay Golf Club, writes Louie Chan.

K

Photography by Daniel Wong

ho topped a f ield t hat featured 81 junior golfers, 2 4 of whom were f rom overseas. The 2018 edition of the championship also f e a t u r e d o n t h e Wo r l d Amateur Golf Rankings. The leading Hong Kong teenage golfer shot an impressive 65 in the final round on his home course.

Vietnam’s Nguyen Bao Long was 6 shots behind and finished 2nd overall with 215.

India’s Kartik Sharma was at the 3rd place with a total of 217.

“It feels good to win this tournament for t he second time. This time is more meaningful because this is my last junior tournament here. It feels great to close out on my home course. The weather was challenging. We have to adapt to different condition on each day. It was a really good test of golf. It was very hot at some time. It’s not often to come across this course with different climate every day. It was nice to play with players internationally. I will be off to University in three days. It’s pretty scary, but I’m also pretty excited. I want to thank the HKGA for all the support in the past 10 years. Also, thanks to my coach Mark,” said Kho, who will play for the University of Norte Dame in the U.S. after the summer.

Ch i na’s Jien l i Li wa s crowned girls’ champion, finishing with a final round 72 for a total of 226. “This is the first time I play in HK, so this is a very nice experience.

T h a n k s to t he org a n i s er, tou r n a ment committee and hospitality. I am happy to win this tournament. I have just back from the U.S., so the win proves my ability to

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play golf. It was fun to play three rounds with three different conditions. I like to play in the rain, but only the winds caused me a lot of trouble. I think the Diamond 1st was the hardest hole throughout the week. The fairway is so narrow, and it’s hard to put the ball in play. We couldn’t see the green most of the time when we played the second shot. I had a 24-yard putt today, and I didn’t think it would get in, but it just did! It was very memorable,” said the overall girls champion.

Hong Kong’s Stephanie Wong (237) and India’s Hitaashee Bakshi (238) finished 2nd and 3rd respectively.

The younger age group (7-10) of the Hong Kong Junior Open Championship took place at Hong Kong Golf Club Deepwater Bay on 13 August. Lisle Kwon claimed the Boy’s 9-10 division with 64, while Arianna Lau won the Girl’s same age group with an impressive 61.

Darren Zhou and Charlotte Tam claimed the Boy’s and Girl’s 7-8 division with 65 and 83 respectively.

Leading final scores: Overall boys: 209 – Ta ich i K ho (H KG) 70 -74 - 65; 215 – Nguyen Bao Long (VIE) 74-68-73; 217 – Kartik Sharma (IND) 70-76-71; 218 – Shuhit Bishnoi (I ND) 74-78-66, A ndre Chong (SGN) 73-75-70. Overall girls: 226 – Jieni Li (CHI) 74-80-72; 233 – Stephanie Wong (HKG) 73-79-81; 237 – Hitaashee Ba k sh i ( I N D) 73 - 85 -79; 238 – I na ra Sharma (HKG) 76 -88-74; 239 – Chloe Chan (HKG) 76-80-83.

For more information about the Hong Kong Junior Open Championship 2018 result, please go to www.hkga.com HKGOLFER.COM

Taichi Kho lines up for his putt

Kho and Li pose for photo with their trophies

Stephanie Wong HKGOLFER.COM

Jienli Li looks at her drive

Winners from all divisions pose for photo

Chloe Chan HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

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AFP/Getty Images

Brooks Koepka poses with the Wanamaker Trophy on the 18th green after winning the 2018 U.S. PGA Championship

U.S. PGA CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW

Double Dip

Completed Brooks Koepka completed a double-dip at the 100th U.S. PGA Championship. With his win at the 2018 U.S. PGA Championship, the American is the first golfer since Jordan Spieth in 2015 to win two majors in one year, writes Louie Chan.

B

rooks Koepka started Sunday ahead of 10 players within four shots off t he lead.

Tiger Woods created roars, defending champion Justin Thomas challenged and Adam Scott pulled even. However, Koepka held off all challengers at Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis.

With his 264, Koepka set the record for the lowest 72-hole score in a PGA Championship.

David Toms had the record with his 265 in 2001. Moreover, Koepka is the fifth player in history to win the U.S. Open and the U.S. PGA Championship in the same year, along with Gene Sarazen (1922), Ben Hogan (1948), Jack Nicklaus (1980) and Tiger Woods (2000).

Even w it h Tiger a nd S cot t pu sh i ng Koepka, the 28-year-old didn't falter. He went 33 on the front 9 and then holed pars five holes in a row. With the solo lead no longer his when Scott birdied No. 13, Koepka answered with birdies of his own on the 15th and 16th to regain the solo lead for good.

HKGOLFER.COM

“You could hear a different roar every 30 seconds, so we knew what was going on. It’s pretty obvious when Tiger makes a birdie.

The energy in that place was unbelievable,” said Koepka. Everywhere Koepka walked, Tigermania was in full fever on the other side of the ropes, thousands upon thousands frantic to see history. That included the guys in red shirts with the words, “Make Sunday great again”.

All that makes a hard and treacherous landscape for a man in the lead on Sunday at a major. However, none of that stopped him. Not the pressure, nor the humidity, nor Bellerive.

Not even Woods shooting 64, the ground was shaking with each of his eight birdies.

It was Tiger Tiger’s crowd. Tiger’s main stage. Tiger’s obvious statement that there is still a lot he might be capable of doing.

However, he finished two shots behind. It was Brooks Koepka’s PGA Championship. “It’s kind of pushes you to step up your game,” Koepka said after he held off Woods, “because you know he’s right there if you fall.”

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

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U.S. PGA CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW

Tiger Woods plays a shot on the 4th hole during the final round of the 2018 U.S. PGA Championship

AFP/Getty Images

Adam Scott stands on the 3rd tee during the final round of the 2018 U.S. PGA Championship

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HKGOLFER.COM

Stewart Cink plays his shot from the 1st tee during the final round of the 2018 U.S. PGA Championship

HKGOLFER.COM

LEADING FINAL SCORES 1 Brooks Koepka

United States

69 63 66 66

264

2 Tiger Woods

United States

70 66 66 65

266

3

Australia

70 65 65 67

267

4= Steward Cink

United States

67 69 66 67

269

Spain

68 67 66 68

269

6= Thomas Pieters

Belgium

67 66 71 66

270

Francesco Molinari

Italy

68 67 68 67

270

Justin Thomas

United States

69 65 68 68

270

Gary Woodland

United States

64 66 71 69

270

10= Rafa Cabrera Bello

Spain

70 68 69 64

271

England

71 67 69 64

271

Adam Scott

Jon Rahm

Tyrrell Hatton

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

AFP/Getty Images

In posting his lowest three consecutive rounds at a major (66-66-64) and lowest weekend score at a major (10-under 130) - as in ever - the 14-time major champion would finish second, his best showing at a major since his runner-up f inish at the PGA Championship in 2009. Woods led at Carnoustie with eight holes to play last month (he lost his lead by going double-bogey, bogey), and at the PGA, following a horrific start (3-over through two holes), he worked his way high up onto the leaderboard over the weekend and stayed there.

“I didn't drive it good all day,” Woods said. “I was struggling with my golf swing. I warmed up hitting it left, I was hitting it right with every single club, even my sand wedge I wasn't doing very good. So, I knew this was going to be a struggle to try and piece together a round, and I did.”

Yes, he did, and the masses who followed his every movement relished every second. It was hot, and Woods turned up the heat. Sure, the course was soft and conducive to scoring this week, but this was the old Tiger, and little boys watching atop their fathers’ shoulders will always remember what they saw.

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AFP/Glyn Kirk

Francesco Molinari poses for pictures with the Claret Jug after winning the 147th Open Championship at Carnoustie 34

HK GOLFER・SEP 2018

HKGOLFER.COM

THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW

Molinari the

Magnicent Francesco Molinari produced a bogey-free round under the most extreme pressure to end on eight-under, two strokes clear of the field, and become the first Italian to win a Major golf title at Carnoustie, writes Louie Chan.

I

n ten previous appearances at the world’s oldest major, Francesco Molinari had missed four cuts and only once has he finished inside the top 10 - back in 2013. However, few players are in richer form than the 35-year-old Italian, who won his maiden PGA Tour title by a large eight strokes last month and claimed the biggest European Tour crown of his career at Wentworth in May. Those wins have brought riches a nd expectation, but this brings something more valuable - a place in his nation’s sporting history.

"I feel disbelief. It is amazing to be here with the Claret Jug,” Molinari said, after incredibly managing to play 36 holes of weekend golf, on one of the world's most demanding courses, without dropping a shot, "to look at the names on the Claret Jug, they are the best in history. For me, to come from Italy, it has been an incredible journey.”

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Molinari started the day three shots back from leaders Jordan Spieth, Kevin Kisner and Xander Schauffele and kept his head while all around were losing theirs.

Tiger Woods rolled back the years for the second straight day, producing a swaggering front nine as he surged to the top of the leaderboard. It seemed fate this group would produce the Champion Golfer and so it did, just not the one expected.

Woods's playing partner Molinari kept his head down and maintained his focus, and he was not interested in playing a supporting r o l e . T h e 14 - t i m e M a j o r c h a m p i o n ultimately finished three shots back from the Italian, a double bogey at 11 and bogey at 12 ultimately denying those who wanted to write a fairytale story.

Molinari picked up a birdie on the 14th to put himself top of the leaderboard - which at one point was crowded with six players who

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THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP REVIEW

Top: ©Rolex/Thomas Lovelock; below: ©Rolex/Chris Turvey

Tiger Wood tees off in the final round

Rickie Fowler and Jon Rahm on day two of the 147th Open Championship 36

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A view of the 18th hole at Carnoustie

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LEADING FINAL SCORES 1

Francesco Molinari

Italy

70 72 65 69

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2= Justin Rose

England

72 73 64 69

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Northern Ireland

69 69 70 70

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United States

66 70 68 74

278

United States

71 66 67 74

278

6= Eddie Pepperell

England

71 70 71 67

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Tiger Woods

United States

71 71 66 71

279

Kevin Chappell

United States

70 69 67 74

279

9= Tony Finau

United States

67 71 71 71

280

Matt Kuchar

United States

70 68 70 72

280

Jordan Spieth

United States

72 67 65 76

280

Rory McIlroy Kevin Kisner

Xander Schauffele

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©Rolex/Chris Turvey

couldn’t be separated. However, a brilliant and nerveless 18th - a hole that has been the undoing of so many at Carnoustie over the years - sealed his victory, his first birdie there this week. He went to the putting green to prepare for the play-off, but when Xander Schauffele, his nearest rival, dropped a shot at the 17th, meaning he needed an eagle, at last, it was all over.

"I could not watch Xander play the last two holes, so I went to the putting green. I would have been sick," added Molinari, "Tiger was great. There are a lot more people if you are grouped with him than if you are playing with some of the other guys. I have done it before, so I knew what was coming.

Justin Rose, who needed a birdie at the 18th on Friday to make the cut, finished in a t ie for second wit h Ror y McI lroy, whose cha rge ign ited , f l ickered a nd ultimately faded. Americans Kevin Kisner and Schauffele joined them two shots back of Molinari.

Then came Woods and England’s Eddie Pepperell, who posted the best round of the day with a 67. Scotland’s Sam Locke won the Silver Medal for leading amateur.

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World's Golf Course Designer of the Year

World's Best New Golf Course

IMAGINE THE

POSSIBILITIES

AFP/Paul Ellis

Darren Clarke throws his ball into the crowd after finishing his second round of The 147th Open Championship at Carnoustie

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THE KILTED CADDIE

It's

Not All

About

Winning The Kilted Caddie recalls his time with Chubby Chandler, Darren Clarke and Jordan Smith on the Tuesday practice day of The Open Championship at Carnoustie.

I

have to admit to being a big fan of attending The Open on the practice days. Not only is it significantly cheaper, £25 as opposed to £80, but it’s obviously a lot quieter, and there is a chance to mingle with the players and other persons of note. Well, mostly that is.

Carnoustie is very much on the golfing map.

However, you only really go there for the golf, if you get my drift. It has nothing of the beauty, historical significance or stunning architecture of St Andrews which sits across the water. In short, the town of Carnoustie is not glam and indeed not pretty. You certainly don’t go there for high-end shopping, high end hotels, high-

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end restaurants or high-end anything. I suspect if you decanted a bottle of wine in a Carnoustie hostelry they would probably ask you if there is anything wrang with it? No. It’s not a winedecanting town.

However, Carnoustie is blessed with one of the most stunning and challenging golf courses in the world, and I’ll drink, undecanted, to that.

I went to the Tuesday practice day, and there was already a great buzz and bright, expectant atmosphere. I headed for the practice area which was against the grain for me, but they seem to have dispensed with the Bollinger Tent for some insane reason. Still, I suppose at 10am it was a tad early for that sort of thing. Hmm?

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Ken Brown and friend come face to face with the Kilted Caddie

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The practice area was mobbed, and full of recognisable and not so recognisable faces. On a small stage at one end the affable and ready smiling Danny Willet was being interviewed and talking through his swing changes. Right next, across a small fence was Darren Clarke with the famous sports promoter Chubby Chandler.

I had a fancy to get a self ie with Mr Chandler and was thinking about shouting across ‘Chubby’. However, on noting that Darren had put on a good bit of beef, I thought this inadvisable and had the obvious potential for being taken the wrong way. I don’t think you want to be seen to wind up Mr Clarke, even though my motive was ostensibly pure and innocent.

Still, I did manage to catch up with Mr Chandler as he exited the practice area, asked for a selfie to which he initially seemed ok about. However, he then obviously had second thoughts and quickly marched off, saying ‘he was behind time’. I thought that was quite an interesting comment, reflected quickly on its possible (but unlikely) philosophical dimension and then figured I’d just been snubbed. You can’t win them all.

I did, however, get an Open selfie with the most lovely and genuine English player, Jordan

Smith who’d done so well in the U.S. Open a couple of years back. I shouted across to him as he was walking up Hogan’s Alley and he immediately, and most obligingly, came across.

I had caddied in the same group with him at the Dunhill last year, and he actually remembered me. Or shall I say he remembered my somewhat memorable Royal and Awesome shorts?

Anyway, what a very decent and obliging bloke.

I wish I could say that for another bloke out there on the course. I saw Tiger on the first tee and thought I’d amble up to the adjacent stand which was packed. I shouted down ‘what are your chances, Tiger?’ However, I met an unflinching Tiger who was obviously ‘in the zone’ or had suddenly lost all means of sensory communication. Nevertheless, I thought he would at least acknowledge the four young boys who were collecting autographs just at the end of the first tee. However, I’m afraid a very definite no. He ceremoniously marched past this wee group of eager young fans with his cohort of sycophantic playing partners who thought it right to ignore the young autograph hunters too. Maybe Tiger will grow up one day and set a fine example. Life is not all about being a great golfer, my man.

In much more friendly and buoyant mood was the commentator Ken Brown whom

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I caught in a buggy coming out of the TV compound. He was more than willing to have a wee chat and his photo taken as was the NBC presenter Roger Maltbie, who gave me a lift back to the course after my slight detour to catch up with my old pal Pete who works with the Beeb.

Yes, it’s really all very convivial and festive like at The Open. People tucking into burgers and fish and chips (of course). Many stout and cheery bods swigging cold Stella Artois under the warm Angus sun. Even the local constabulary was in high spirits and every game.

I managed to get my arm around one which makes a delightful and novel change. Just a wee joke of course! I’ve never to my knowledge been on the wrong side of the Angus constabulary.

I did notice that the Japanese contingent had female caddies and the most attractive ones at that. They were really jovial and smiling lot, and I was compelled to follow their group for a few holes and even got chatting to the Asahi TV crew. I said I wrote for HK Golfer which got a slightly uneasy and quizzical look from the group at first. Their immediate conversation went something like this, said with extreme and the most interesting and varied degrees of intonation. ‘Hong Kong Goff?’ ‘Aah Hong Kong Goff!’ ‘Aaah, ohhh, Hong Kong Goff, Honk Kong Goff’ (a brief respite for a few giggles and

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that open-mouthed Japanese incredulity look thing) ‘Ohhh Hong Kong Goff!’

Yes, I guess they would have been expecting someone with a more oriental disposition. Not the six foot two, broad and bald Edinburgher that was in their midst. Anyway, they were most friendly and courteous as the Japanese race always seem to be. We did exchange a few pleasantries and as they headed away in their buggy. I shouted a parting ‘I’ll see you in Tokyo’ which did cause a bit of amusement.

The marshals finely fitted out in their very smart red, Boss sponsored outfits were a delight and most helpful. They escorted me across the course when I suddenly realised I had lost sight of the Stella tent and educated me of the local word for light rain ‘smurr’, which sounds like my chat after a few hours in the Stella tent!

So, largely a happy, amusing and eventful day. Even the local constabulary was in high spirits and very game. As ever I’m afraid that there are the few that are taking themselves a bit too seriously. However, come on Chubby and Tiger, if the local bobbies can let their hair down then so can you guys. It’s not all about winning.

Even though Francesco Molinari manifestly showed us all about that.

The Kilted Caddie and the Asian friends

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2018 RYDER CUP PREVIEW & PREDICTIONS

2018 Ryder Cup:

the French Connection

AFP/Thomas Samson

The 42nd staging of the biennial genial golfing grudge match between the leading professional players of Europe and their American cousins breaks new ground, taking place in France over the spectacular L'Albatross course at Le Golf National near the French capital, Paris. With the small gold cup firmly in the grip of the USA, Europe may have its work cut out to regain the coveted trophy, even on home soil, writes Michael Wilson.

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An aerial view shows the Albatros course at Le Golf National where the 2018 Ryder Cup will take place this month

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European Team Captain Thomas Bjorn speaks to the media during press conference prior to the 2018 PGA Championship at Bellerive Country Club

T

AFP/Getty Images

he Ryder Cup, one of world sport’s most coveted events, three days of gripping, head-to-head match play golf between the finest professional players the USA and Europe can muster.

It captures the imagination not only of fans across those two continents but further afield too, an electric atmosphere on course, high-drama on TV, the emotions and nerves of players and watchers alike stretched to breaking point, on a par with the Masters and the Open Championship.

However, it’s a different animal though to run-of-the-mill stroke play events. Quite unlike the Majors, the format of the biennial Ryder Cup is exclusively match-play. Players not only playing for themselves but primarily for their playing partners and their teams, and all without a penny piece in prize money on offer. Pride and two-year’s worth of transatlantic bragging rights are what it’s all about.

The 42nd Ryder Cup takes place over Le Golf National course near the French capital, France, only the second occasion the European event has been staged outside Great Britain and Ireland. Up to 50,000 fans, each day from both sides of the Atlantic will gear-up for a colourful and combative three days of competition. Three practice days will also attract sell-out galleries, and TV coverage beamed to almost a billion people in 180 countries worldwide.

Going into Paris, 2018 and the 42nd Ryder Cup, USA Team leads the series with 26 victories to Europe’s 13, but that only tells a fraction of the story.

The Ryder Cup was becoming everything its founder ever imagined, and more, the high-drama of golf. Mano a mano, close competition, but the event was fast growing a hugely successful event commercially, with European nations bidding for the pride and privilege of hosting the event.

Arguably, the most dramatic Ryder Cup of all came in 1997 at Valderrama 48

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in Spain. Under the captaincy of the late, great Seve Ballesteros, Europe emerged victorious, against all the odds.

Indeed, despite losing out at Brookline in 1999, European Team had become much more competitive, indeed dominant, winning threein-a-row between 2002 and 2006, and again from 2010 to 2014.

However, USA Team goes into the Paris match as holders of the Ryder Cup, having won convincingly, 17-11, under the canny captaincy of Davis Love III, who outwitted his opposite number, a somewhat hapless Darren Clarke. Love’s players, shorn of the injured Tiger Woods, but with a blend of experience – Phil Mickelson and Zach Johnson - and youthful exuberance - Rickie Fowler, Jordan Spieth and Brooks Koepka, the Stars & Stripes were flying proudly at Hazeltine.

A ll of which brings us to the French connection, the much-anticipated debut of the Ryder Cup in France. Tickets sold out months in advance, players from both sides of the Atlantic jockeying for position and a place on their respective teams. Europe led by Thomas Bjørn, the visitors and holders, the USA by Jim Furyk.

Each team has its selection process, a HKGOLFER.COM

Jim Furyk the Captain of the USA Team talks with the media during the 2018 Ryder Cup Press Conference at Bellerive Country Club

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a spectacular and spectator-friendly stadium course, a venue that has cut its teeth by hosting the prestigious Open de France since 1991.

Even though the Ryder Cup is condensed into an intense three-day competition window, and towards the end of a long gruelling season, the format demands not only skill but strength, stamina and courage too.

Culminating in all 12 players of either side going head-to-head in Sunday singles golf, winner takes all as the drama unfolds.

There is little between the two non-playing captains, Thomas Bjørn and Jim Furyk. The Dane is 47 years old, one year younger than his opposite number, who turned professional in 1992, a year ahead of his European rival.

Furyk has one Major title to his name, the 2003 U.S. Open. Bjørn has come close, runner-up twice in the Open Championship, once in the U.S. PGA and has 15 European Tour wins to his name, earning some US$25m, compared to the US$67m his opposite number has banked.

Furyk has far greater Ryder Cup playing experience compared to Bjørn, nine appearances including two wins. The Dane just has three with two wins, but Bjørn has been a European vice-captain on four occasions, arguably the better preparation for what lies ahead in the Parisan suburbs later this month.

Ryder Cup captaincy is a fusion of art and science, man management, motivation and selection of players for four-balls and foursomes, as well as the crucial nomination of players in order of play for the Sunday singles, judgment of who plays well with whom, which players are either full of or lacking in confidence.

Also, even before it all gets underway, each man selects his four captains’ picks, whichever skipper performs best against most or all of these criteria is likely to fill the Ryder Cup with the best French Champagne come to the evening of Sunday 30th September within a decent driving distance of the Palace of Versailles.

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AFP/Getty Images

combination of selection on merit and captains’ picks, as captain attempt to field the players in form alongside those with a proven Ryder Cup track record.

F u r y k ’s f i r s t e i g h t p l ay e r s w i l l b e automatic qualifiers - the leading eight on the PGA TOUR money list after the BMW Championship. Bjørn’s European outf it comprises the first four players from the European Points List, followed by the leading four players from the World Points List and completed by four wild-card selections.

Wit h t he stage set for t h ree days of intensive, high-octane golf, the event comprises 28 total matches, each of which is worth one point. There are no extra holes in Ryder Cup matches, should the two sides be tied after 18 holes, each side earns a halve point.

The first team to reach 14½ points from the 28 available wins the Ryder Cup outright and, if the match ends in a 14-14 draw, the team holding the Ryder Cup, USA Team, will retain the tiny golf trophy.

Built on agricultural land since Louis XIV and the Château de Versailles, when it was one of the areas where wheat was farmed, Le Golf National was designed by architects Hubert Chesneau and Robert Von Hagge who created

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AFP/Lucas Barioulet

US Ryder Cup Team golfers (left to right) Brian Harman, Kevin Kisner and captain Jim Furyk practice in July at Le Golf National ahead of the Ryder Cup

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But, whilst captaincy is crucial, playing is paramount. Both teams look set to comprise a blend of battle-hardened experience and those with the fresh, fearless fun of playing Ryder Cup golf for the very first time.

Wit h f inal standings and subsequent automatic qualification for European Team yet to be decided when on 2nd September the rankings will reveal the identities of eight of the 12-man European team. As things stand, Francesco Molinari, Justin Rose, Tyrrell Hatton and Fleetwood make up the four qualifiers on the European Points List, joined by Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Alex Noren and Paul Casey qualified through the World Points List.

Then four spots left, most probably drawn from Thorbjørn Olesen, Ian Poulter, Russell Knox, Eddie Pepperell, Sergio García, Matthew Fitzpatrick and Henrik Stenson, who is a major doubt through injury and loss of form.

Molinari, without question the best player in the world throughout the summer of 2018 will enjoy the ‘Sheet anchor’ role for European Team. World #4 Justin Rose standing foursquare alongside the Italian. McIlroy, who in his younger, less experienced days referred to the biennial match-up against the USA as little more than, “an exhibition match,” forming the foundations of the European 12.

Given the Ryder Cup experience of both García and Poulter, both can expect a call from captain Bjørn sometime this month, enabling them to prepare, physically and mentally, for the challenge they both revel in, leaving the exciting-but-inexperienced Olesen and Stenson - if fit - to face the big guns of the USA. Much transatlantic talk is of Tiger Woods, now 11th on the points list on the PGA TOUR and on a run of form few thought they would ever see again from the 14-time Major winner.

However, given a lacklustre Ryder Cup record and serious doubts concerning the once-great man’s ability to last the pace over 18 holes, the required 36 in one day on Thursday and/or Friday looks certain to see his role cemented only as a non-playing vice-captain.

However, notwithstanding the Tiger teaser, Furyk’s USA Team looks, if not invincible, then undoubtly irresistible, world numbers one, two and three - Dustin Johnson, Justin Thomas and recent PGA Championship winner Brooks Koepka leading the cavalry charge of American big guns. With Jordan Spieth and Ricky Fowler backing up, Masters champions Bubba Watson and Patrick Reed in the automatic eight.

That leaves Furyk with, not only the Woods dilemma but also whether to take a chance

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on an out-of-form - but Ryder Cup stalwart - Phil Mickelson, the ‘Steady Eddie’ Matt Kuchar, ‘Mr. Dependable,’ Zach Johnson, fiveappearances but only once on the winning team, 2012 U.S. Open champion Webb Simpson, or the two relative exotically-named rookies, Bryson de Chambeau and Zander Schauffele.

Whatever the respective cast from each side of the Atlantic Ocean, the dramatis personae looks so evenly balanced, both in terms of past results and experience and playing ability in a pressure cooker environment. The stage is indeed set for pure theatre throughout.

Also, like most major sporting occasions, the difference between victory and defeat will come down to small margins - a putt missed here, a hole lost there, a chip in from the fairway to clinch a crucial hole, a bunker found due to final day adrenaline pumping through

the veins.

On balance, USA Team looks marginally stronger and runs deeper than its European counterpart. However, Europe is playing at home, having prepared Le Golf National - as it is perfectly entitled to do - prepared to suit their style.

Home advantage bellowing out from the massive galleries lining L’Albatross course throughout, and a stronger team ethic that is traditionally there in USA Team, traditionally 12 individuals rather than a team.

All of which leaves the respective captains, and their respective backroom teams, selecting the right partnerships on Friday and Saturday. The correct order of play come Sunday, gaining, and maintaining the momentum in a contest that can ebb and flow like the restless tide.

Then there is the role ‘Lady Luck’ might play, an injury here, a lipped-out putt there, the bounce of the ball, any one of some unintentional actions with unintended consequences.

It’s a tough one - some might say, ‘too close to call’, but on balance, and setting aside home advantage, the strength in depth of the USA, the fact either an outright win or a tie would spell victory. Moreover, the canny captaincy of Furyk over the potentially temperamental Bjørn might just see USA Team hold on to the small, but invaluable gold cup.

UP FOR THE CUP One of the smallest, but many sought-after trophies in world sport, the Ryder Cup is a symbol of world-class sport, played for in a spirit of spirited but friendly competition between two continents that have, in golf a great deal more in common than divides them.

•

The Ryder Cup trophy measures just 17 inches tall and weighs 4 pounds. It’s small in stature, and it’s about the same size of the FIFA World Cup trophy won by France in Russia earlier this year.

•

The Ryder Cup is made of 9-carat gold.

•

Samuel Ryder, the founder of the Ryder Cup, commissioned the trophy and donated it in 1927; it was the prize he had made for the first matches in 1927, pitting the best golfers in the United States against the best golfers from Great Britain.

•

The trophy costs in the order of $400 at the time to make; it would cost about $6,000 now, but because of its invaluable status, is insured for many times more than that.

•

The original Ryder Cup trophy is owned by the Professional Golfers Association of Great Britain and Ireland (PGA – GB&I), bequeathed to it by seedsman Samuel Ryder.

•

The original Ryder Cup trophy remains at the PGA GB&I headquarters in Great Britain.

•

A golden golfer sits atop the lid of the Ryder Cup at the top of the trophy, thought to be Abe Mitchell, Ryder’s friend and personal golf teacher who played in the inaugural event in 1927 at Worcester Country Club, Massachusetts, USA, where the match was tied 9.5-9.5pts.

•

The trophy base has the Ryder Cup results engraved on a band that goes around it.

•

The winning Ryder Cup team does not get the actual original trophy; instead, they get an identical replica made for the PGA of America, whilst there is also a replica trophy that is used for promotional appearances.

•

By coincidence, the capacity of the Ryder Cup is the same, 70cl, as a standard bottle of Champagne, some 25 of which were consumed as Europe celebrated victory at Gleneagles in 2014.

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AFP/Getty Images

ASIAN ANGLE

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Defending the Roll of

Honour

Chuah Choo Chiang talks to the defending WGC-HSBC Champion about his triumph last year.

Justin Rose plays his shot from the 13th tee during the first round of the 2017 WGC-HSBC Champions

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H

ead line writers a l l over t he world have enjoyed a field day since Justin Rose sensationally holed out from the rough on the 72nd hole as a 17-year-old amateur to finish a fairy-tale fourth at The Open Championship in 1998.

From that grand-stand high to his 21 successive missed cuts immediately after turning professional, Rose has indeed blossomed - forgive the pun into one of England’s golden sons that Asian fans are awaiting in earnest for his title defence at the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions come October.

I n t he age where a new generat ion of 20-somethings such as Justin Thomas, Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth are threatening to dominate the game, Rose, who is now a ripe 37 years of age, has proven time and again that he has the will and skill to thrill fans.

Currently ranked No. 3 on planet golf, Rose is the reigning Olympic Games Gold Medal winner, a Major champion, holder of 11 victories on the European Tour and nine on the PGA TOUR, which includes two World Golf Championships.

Not only is Rose a fine gentleman and ferocious golfer, but he is also generous at heart too where along with his wife Kate, their foundation - the Kate and Justin Rose Foundation - focuses on improving children’s lives by providing nutritional support, funding education and providing ‘first exposure’ positive life experiences to kids.

W it h t h e P G A T OU R’s 2 017-18 S e a s o n entering its climax with the FedExCup Playoffs concluding in September, Rose must be feeling the good vibes again as it was exactly a year ago that the Englishman’s stock rose dramatically.

In 23 starts around the world, he has won four times in China, Turkey, Indonesia and America, f inished top-10 in 14 other tournaments and check this out, he has not missed a single cut at all during that red-hot spell which began last September until the time of writing.

H i s t r i u m p h a t l a s t y e a r ’s WG C - H S B C Champions at Sheshan International Golf Club was majestic. Starting the final round eight back of World No. 1 Dustin Johnson and with a simple goal of trying to f inish in second place, Rose produced one of the rounds of his life to win the showpiece event by two shots following a closing five-under-par 67 under blustery conditions. “… WGCs, whenever you beat the top players in the world, that gives a tournament victory so much more meaning, and obviously with a leaderboard like we had today with Dustin, Brooks (Koepka) and (Henrik) Stenson, I take a lot of pride in winning this tournament,” said Rose.

“And winning in China, to travel and to take your game internationally I think is something

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that's very important to do. Obviously, China is a very important golf nation, and a growing golf nation, so it's very important to win in front of these fans.

“The confidence I gained from coming from eight shots back in such a big tournament against such a world-class field really helped me finish off last year on a high, and I have kept the momentum going ever since. I will feel very proud to stand on the first tee at Sheshan and be announced as the defending Champion.”

Rose’s glorious victory certainly added shine onto the tournament ’s roll of honour as past WGC-HSBC Champions include Major winners Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Sergio Garcia, Bubba Watson, Y.E. Yang, Martin Kaymer and Francesco Molinari.

Another stellar field of champions is tipped to head full speed to the Far East once again and feature in Asia’s richest golf tournament, which will offer a record US$10 million from October 25 to 28.

Since its debut in 2005, the Who’s Who of world golf have teed up at Sheshan, and all have spoken highly of the WGC-HSBC Champions.

Mickelson, who won the tournament in 2007 and 2009, said: “The fans in China are like nowhere else in the world in terms of their energy and enthusiasm.” The left-handed superstar has also referred to the tournament as “Asia’s Major.”

Rose will be determined to become the first player to successfully defend in Shanghai, especially when he has stated his ambition of becoming World No. 1 at some point in his illustrious career.

“I want to get to world No. 1 by winning golf tournaments. There could be opportunities in the next six months. I could get there by finishing s e ve nt h s o me w h e re b e c au s e t h e re 's a l way s permutations. I want to get to world No. 1 by winning, and that keeps my goal simple,” he said.

“I've got maybe three, four, five more years to really make the most of my career, to really put a nice little cherry on top of my career. And t he standard is improving out here. It's very competitive, it's very hard to forge your way into the top-f ive in the world right now with how many wins these young players are racking up.

Obviously, we saw periods of time where Tiger would win five, six, seven, eight a year, but you're now getting to four or five guys having multiple win seasons. That's the type of level you have to play at.”

A lso, that, ladies and gentlemen, is exactly the type of golfer Justin Rose has become since emerging onto the scene as a skinny and freckledface teenager.

C h u a h C h o o C h i a n g i s S e n i o r D i r e c t o r, Communications of the PGA TOUR and is based in TPC Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.

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AFP/Getty Images

Phil Mickelson reacts on the 14th green during the second round of the 2017 WGCHSBC Champions

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me,

TOUR INSIDER

In a place

Called

Paradise

Image Courtesy of Asia Tour

Calvin Koh recalls what a week it turned out to be in the 2018 Fiji International, a place called Paradise.

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Pros teeing off against the backdrop of one of the most scenic venues in the world HKGOLFER.COM

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B With his last name, India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar was hugely popular with the galleries 62

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ula! It was a Fijian greeting that welcomed me whenever I went at the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways.

Over the last decade on t he A sia n Tour, I had t he privilege of travelling the length and breadth of the world. From the majestic Swiss Alps in Switzerland to the tranquilly of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand, my latest voyage took me to the South Pacific where the wonders of Fiji awaited.

For a country known to embrace a sport passionately like rugby, the sporting narrative could possibly be shared with golf as the Fiji International made its return to the beautiful Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course.

The live television coverage of the event took Fiji to the four corners of the globe, and it helped that former world number ones and Major winners such as Ernie Els and Vijay Singh were the faces of the tournament this year too.

If beauty had a face, Fiji would be one.

Teeing off against the backdrop of one of the most scenic venues in the world, I, along the rest of the professionals were mesmerised by the captivating beauty of the Coral Coast.

With some of the most unique hospitality

options in the world of golf, the Par-3 8th hole also provided the perfect vantage point to watch the golf, whilst socialising on the beach.

Now, it’s also not difficult to know why Fiji is home to the happiest people on earth.

They enjoy breathtaking natural beauty, great outdoor lifestyles and an abundant of unique cultures.

Outside the sanctuary of my room, the palm tree fringed islands, pristine clear blue waters and unspoiled beaches provided that therapeutic relief away from the daily hustle and bustle of city life which I’ve been so used to.

The writing was also on the wall for India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar to win the Fiji International. With his last name, the Indian was hugely popular with the galleries who showed up to watch and acquaint themselves with golf.

Bhullar’s maiden trip to Fiji ended with him taking home the Fiji International trophy and priceless memories of his week-long stay in Fiji.

While I could not lay my hands on the prized trophy, like Bhullar, I also took home memories of Fiji that would stay in the recesses of my mind for a very long time.

Calvin Koh heads the press operations and media partnerships for the Asian Tour.

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TRAVEL FEATURE

The 5-Star Destination Where Champions Play Golf

Where can you tee off on a championship course set atop a windswept American shoreline in the morning; recover at a five-star spa in the afternoon; dine and stay at a five-star, five-diamond resort in the evening; and wake up to a new day, ready to explore another three championship courses? That kind of paradise can only be found at Destination Kohler, nestled in the heart of America, on the coast of the Great Lakes.

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Whistling Straits Straits Course, Hole 2 “Cross Country” HKGOLFER.COM

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TRAVEL FEATURE

T

he f ive-sta r hospita l it y of D e st i nat ion Koh ler g rew naturally out of Kohler Co.’s m o r e t h a n 14 0 y e a r s o f bringing gracious experiences to l ife wit h in novat ive kitchen and bath products. Known for its commitment to leading-edge design and quality craftsmanship, Kohler brought the same ingenuity and detailed precision to Destination Kohler and its four championship golf courses.

Whistling Straits - Straits Course, Hole 12 “Pop Up” 66

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A LEGACY IN THE MAKING All four of Destination Kohler’s courses at Whistling Straits® and Blackwolf Run® were designed by World Golf Hall of Fame architect Pete Dye. Destination Kohler is the only place in the world where you can golf four of the nearly 200 courses Dye has designed. Wildly different in spirit and topography, together the four courses reveal the expanse of Dye’s genius.

W hist ling Straits is a serious test of a golfer’s mettle, with links-style fescue fa i r ways on T he St ra it s C ou rse a nd meandering streams, grassland and dunes on The Irish Course. Touted as the greatest championship course in the United States,

The Straits Course is dramatically rugged with massive sand dunes set atop two miles of La ke M ich iga n shorel i ne. Th is Pete Dye masterpiece was ranked #4 in Golf Digest’s 2017/2018 America's 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses. Host to the 2004, 2010 and 2015 PGA Championships and the 2007 U.S. Senior Open, The Straits is the future site of the 2020 Ryder Cup, the bi-annual championship team tournament between the U.S. and Europe.

In contrast, Blackwolf Run runs through a glacier-carved river valley, boasting large undulating greens and water or gorges on 14 of The River course’s holes and rolling meadows and deep ravines on The Meadows.

When Blackwolf Run opened for play in June 1988, it was named that year’s “Best New Public Course” in the United States by Golf Digest. Regarded as one of Pete Dye’s crowning achievements, Blackwolf Run has hosted several professional championships including the World Golf Championships in 1995, 1996 and 1997 and the U.S. Women’s Open in 1998 and 2012.

A world-class golf venue, Destination Kohler is located only 2.5 hours north of metropolitan Chicago and its international airport.

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Whistling Straits Straits Course, Hole 7 “Shipwreck” HKGOLFER.COM

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TRAVEL FEATURE

Whistling Straits Straits Course - Hole 6 "Gremlin's Ear” 68

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WHEN IT’S NOT TEE TIME Tucked away in the quaint Village of Kohler is resort ’s f lagship hotel, The A merican Club Resort Hotel, one of only 200 Forbes Five Star hotels in the world. Celebrating its centennial in 2018, The American Club was built in 1918 as housing for immigrants who worked at Kohler Company across the street. The company, who along with its hospitality business is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of plumbing fixtures, generators and engines, renovated the historic building into a luxurious hotel in 1998. Its elegant rooms and suites are handsomely decorated and, naturally, feature the finest KOHLER plumbing products and state-ofthe-art bath and shower experiences, as do all of the rooms throughout our hotels. After a long day on the course, the luxuriously appointed rooms and five-star service and a welcome retreat.

Activity goes well beyond the golf course at Destination Kohler. The resort offers other luxury offerings including Kohler Waters Spa, one of 200 Forbes five-star spas in the world and a leader in hydrotherapy experiences and treatments. Twelve resort dining venues include the Forbes four-star Immigrant

Restaurant, the Wisconsin Room, the Horse & Plow pub, Cucina Italian restaurant, restaurants at both golf courses and the rustic River Wildlife restaurant hidden in a private nature preserve. The resort offers a range of health and wellness options including Yoga on the Lake and Sports Core Health & Racquet Club. There is also a collection of boutique shops, the Kohler Swing Studio & Golf Shop, gardens, kayaking, tours and hiking paths.

I n add it ion to T he A mer ica n Club, accommodations include Inn on Woodlake, a boutique hotel with modern rooms and multi-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to eight guests. Located next door to The American Club, the Carriage House, home to Kohler Waters Spa, offers the same renowned service with a more contemporary ambience.

Other options include Sandhill Cabin, a private, secluded retreat nestled in 350 acres of wilderness. It’s close enough to enjoy all the resort amenities, but far enough away to feel like you’re a world away.

Book your vacation today at www.DestinationKohler.com or call 877-294-6013 HKGOLFER.COM

Whistling Straits Clubhouse view from Straits Course, Hole 18 “Dyeabolical”

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The American Club, one of only 200 Forbes Five GOLFER・SEP 2018 69 Star hotels in the world

This four double bedroom townhouse has been rebuilt behind the front façade to create open plan reception floors, good sized bedrooms as well as two terraces and a patio garden.The house is located in a quiet one way street just to the south of Kings Road.

Radnor Walk, Chelsea, London, UK • Guide price - £4,050,000

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4 bedrooms Terrace 3 bathrooms

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2 patios 2 reception rooms

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Kitchen Freehold

Jason NORTH

Sebastian NEWALL

M: + 44 (0) 7977 036 397

M: + 44 (0) 7716 860 571

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

E: a.newall@barnes-international.com

E: s.newall@barnes-international.com

www.barnes-privateoffice.com

Arguably the best apartment in The Heron, the leading residential building in the City of London.

The Heron, Moor Lane, Moorgate, London, UK • Guide price - £4,750,000

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3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 2 receptions Duplex apartment

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Air conditioning Private Residents Club Gym 3 secure parking spaces

Alex NEWALL

Sebastian NEWALL

M: + 44 (0) 7884 262 774

M: + 44 (0) 7716 860 571

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

E: a.newall@barnes-international.com

E: s.newall@barnes-international.com

www.barnes-privateoffice.com

A two bedroom lateral apartment, overlooking the prestigious Cadogan Square.

Cadogan Square, Knightsbridge, London, UK • Guide price - £6,250,000

• • • •

2 bedrooms Shower room Reception room Kitchen

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2 Guest WCs Studio/utility room 2 terraces Lift

Jason NORTH

Sebastian NEWALL

M: + 44 (0) 7977 036 397

M: + 44 (0) 7716 860 571

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

E: j.north@barnes-international.com

E: s.newall@barnes-international.com

www.barnes-privateoffice.com

Award Winning Wentworth mansion.

Wellington Lodge, Wentworth, Surrey, UK • Guide price - £3,250,000

• • • •

6 bedrooms suites Swimming pool Gym 3 car garage

• • • •

Garden Freehold Studio flat / home office GIA - 961 sq m / (10,344 sq ft)

Jason NORTH

Sebastian NEWALL

M: + 44 (0) 7977 036 397

M: + 44 (0) 7716 860 571

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

T: + 44 (0) 20 7935 5797

E: j.north@barnes-international.com

E: s.newall@barnes-international.com

www.barnes-privateoffice.com

AROUND THE HKGA I INTERVIEW

Dr Hemmings was the Lead Psychologist to the England Golf Team from 1997 to 2013

... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

LC: How do you teach elite players to deal with setbacks on and off the course?

BM: A 13 years old player once said to me ‘a setback is only a setback if you let it set you back’. Setbacks and disappointments in golf are a normal part of learning and development and are commonplace. Off the course, I work on reframing the experience, so the player is able to learn from what happened and move forward. Reframing is simply trying to take a different view which is equally valid. On the course, I might work on breathing interventions or a ‘grounding’ technique to keep players in the present and not to dwell on mistakes and errors.

LC: Can you talk about your concept of “quick-minded’ in golf?

BM: In golf, you don’t have to make quick decisions on the course.

Quick-minded is a behavioural quality that the best players all exhibit.

This just means that when good coaching information is given, the player is quick to put that information into action. You see this frequently.

When you hear players making excuses for not doing something, you use the opportunity to teach them about being quick-minded.

Image courtesy of Dr Brian Hemmings

LC: How do you help your players to define success? And how to moderate fears of failure?

BM: Too often people talk about success and failure as if they are the same as winning and losing. The result is an uncontrollable factor as it also involves the performance of others. You have to teach players to reframe failure as something more controllable by them; like quitting or giving up. Once they realise they will never quit or give up, they begin the journey of seeing failure in a different light. That is, I sometimes/ often might not win, miss a cut, or not play well and I will naturally be disappointed; however, it need not mean I have failed. Too often you meet young players that feel if they fail at golf, then they are also failures as people. These beliefs need to be modified quickly if a player is to be successful. Often parents can inadvertently place this sort of pressure on

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their children through only emphasising re s u lt s , rat her t hen what t he c h i ld i s learning, and the process of performing.

LC: What are the bad recommendations which arise in your area of expertise in golf?

BM: Too many individuals make claims about guaranteed performance gains for players that are unrealistic, exaggerated or just plain untrue. You can’t guarantee a player will get certain results. There are too many unqualified individuals working in the game calling themselves psychologists.

DR BRIAN HEMMINGS was the Lead Psychologist to the England Golf Team from 1997 to 2013 and helped develop the mental skills of the best emerging English golfers including the likes of Ross Fisher, Danny Willett, Tom Lewis, Tommy Fleetwood and Chris Wood. Brian is the author of the book Mental Toughness for Golf: The Minds of Winners and also runs Masterclasses for sports psychologists and golf coaches (www.golfmind.co.uk)

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