Lee Westwood - Double Glory Darren Clarke - Interview Paul Masefield - Interview Black Mountain Golf Club Jumeirah Private Island The Golf Delusion Red Mountain Golf Club Dubai World Championship
G o l f & L i f e s t y l e M a g a z i n e • I s s u e 11 • D e c - F e b 2 0 1 0
Alvaro Quiros - Swing
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“The first class golf course and fantastic club atmosphere made my second home purchase here at Black Mountain an easy choice.” Per-Erik Nilsson Member and condo owner.
“My villa at Black Mountain is my pride and joy.” Simon Yates Asian Tour Pro-golfer and villa owner.
“Fantastic golf course and atmosphere... I will be there as often as possible.” Johan Edfors Member and villa owner. Winner of the Black Mountain Masters 2009.
Join the in crowd! In this years round of Asia’s most prominent golf industry awards, The Asian Golf Monthly Awards, Black Mountain Golf Club reached a milestone by ranking: • Fourth Best Championship Course in the Asia Pacific Region. • Best Championship Course in Thailand.
Hua Hin (just 2 hours south of Bangkok) is renowned in Thailand for its all-year-round good climate and temperate weather conditions. Black Mountain Golf Club is proud of its record of “Never Closing due to bad weather”, letting our golfers enjoy the course every day of the year.
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www.bmghuahin.com
Luxury Condos & Villas
with stunning golf course views
Imagine waking to a view overlooking a valley, crisp with morning air and manicured fairways just waiting for use. Superior standards offer residents a sense of dignity and comfort that only this kind of quality home can provide.
For property enquries contact: Harald Elisson - +66 (0) 857 017 536 or email harald@bmghuahin.com
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Cope House Kensington
Cope House consists of 4 individually crafted dwellings located 50 meters from High St Kensington one of the finest shopping streets in the capital. With Heathrow Airport only 40 minutes away and the London Heliport 25 minutes, you will soon be in your own air conditioned flat next to one of London’s most loved Parks - Holland Park.
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One of the most unique buildings in London
Contact
www.kensingtonapartments.net
Paul Lynch
paullynch.mac@mac.com
+44 (0) 7971 016 072
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Imagine owning a luxurious resort property that generates a high return on your investment each year, as well as allowing you to spend holidays in an idyllic tropical paradise, in a completely fully managed package. Tamarind Hills offers purchasers the opportunity to invest in one of the world’s most prestigious locations and is perfectly positioned to take advantage of Phuket’s established tourist trade.
studios - 2 bedrooms - 3 bedrooms & 3 bedroom penthouses
An investment with safety
• resort facilities • mixed unit types • phase 1 completion in April 2010 • foreign freehold available • project financed by GSB bank • 25% ROI over 4 years
Managed by The Radical Plc.
Phone: +66 (0) 76 615 935-7 Email: sales@tamarindhills.com
www.tamarindhills.com 9
BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB Imagine waking to a view overlooking manicured fairways. Recently created at The Black Mountain Golf Club are homes that boast some of the most majestic views the region, if not the country, have to offer.
Published by
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DARREN CLARKE
Swing Image Ltd. 20 Abbey Road, St Johns Wood, London UK Editor
I’ve always been generous rewarding myself with things. I’ve always liked the cars, the wine and the cigars. We’re only here once.You’ve just got to enjoy it.
Sean Harrison golfswingimage@yahoo.com Asia Office
Phuket Golf Studio Co. Ltd. 22/11 Sirirad Road, Kathu, Phuket, Thailand 83150
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Art & Design
MaxMedia - Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 822 717 424
RED MOUNTAIN GOLF COURSE The course name ‘Red Mountain’ describes very well the characteristics of the course, with the red-soiled mountains lining the fairways, and also being surrounded by lush tropical rain forest.
Photography
Mark Newcombe - Visions in golf - www.visionsingolf.com Getty Images - www.gettyimages.com Advertising
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MaxMedia - Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 822 717 424 Contributing Writers/Interviews
PAUL MASEFIELD Football was my job but my passion is golf. You do need a release and my release valve is golf.To be able to talk about something that you love doing is the best job in the world.
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Paul Mahoney, Ian Lenton (ianlenton@hotmail.com) Printed by
Lake & Fountain Printing Company Ltd. 146-30 Soi Ramintra 21, Ramikntra Road, Bangkok 10220 Telephone: +66 (0) 2 490 1616 Fax: +66 (0) 2 490 1615 Distribution Dawson Media - www.dawsonmediadirect.com
LEE WESTWOOD With a course record 64, Lee Westwood completed his victory in the Dubai World Championship to overtake Rory McIlroy at the top of The Race to Dubai with the performance of his career.
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Swing Image is distributed at the gate service and the lounges of the above airlines at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
ALVARO QUIROS At the PGA Championship this year, Tiger Woods called Alvaro Quiros – Stupid long.
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.
We look through the images of the swing that create the drives of the longest hitter on tour.
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 2009/10 All rights reserved.
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Tour caddie of the year - golf guru - Billy Foster has maybe provided the role...... three players, trying to win the money list, put together. He also advised that if he ‘bullied’ them and played like he knew he could they would be the ones looking at leader-boards and worrying. Foster was in Westwood’s ear the entire 72 holes to ensure his boss’ mind was in the right place. At this stage of his career Westwood is in a different class. The outcome must compensate for the disappointment at Turnberry, when he 3-putted the last green to miss out on a play-off for the Open Championship. This was after playing one of the best fairway-bunker shots I have ever seen. I’m sure, like myself, most of you will have watched in amazement as Lee Westwood hit every fairway and green in regulation to shoot a course-record 64 in the final round to win the Dubai World Championship by six shots. He finished the season as Europe’s leading player and received not only the Dubai World Championship baton but also the new Race to Dubai trophy (our cover image). Throughout the week, playing Greg Norman’s Earth Course, Westwood had apparently adopted a strategy devised by his caddie, Billy Foster, to increase his self-belief and thus triumph over his rivals. Billy told him that he had been paying too much attention to what other people around him were doing by looking at leader-boards. He reminded him that he had won 30 times in his career - more than the other
His end of season rewards? £744,000 for winning the tournament, £900,000 bonus for winning the Race to Dubai but, ultimately, his stunning golf! As for Billy Foster, he was deservedly named the European Tour caddie of the year. Lee Westwood has never been one for golf gurus, but maybe Foster has provided that role.
SEAN HARRISON EDITOR
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Liberty National Golf Club, New Jersey, New York Liberty National Golf Club is noted as a unique course because of its proximity to both the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan, as well as the fact it was built on a former landfill. The 7,346 yard course has been designed by Robert E. Cupp and Tom Kite. The club cost over $250 million to build, making it one of the most expensive golf courses in history, with membership fees at $500 000. Club designers have added amenities such as an on-site heliport, yacht services, a spa and a restaurant. www.libertynationalgc.com
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www.visionsingolf.com
Liberty National
In front of the Manhattan skyline, Tiger Woods lines up a putt during the fourth round of the Barclays tournament.Â
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In front of the Dubai skyline Justin Rose drives from the 8th tee in the final round of the 20th Dubai Desert Classic
Dubai 14
One of the most challenging holes (Pictured) is the par 4, dogleg right 8th. Playing 434 yards, it has the unusual distinction of playing up-hill and requires a well directed drive to leave a reasonable length second shot to an undulating green. This stunning course features hundreds of species of flora, complemented by meandering fairways and seven fresh and saltwater lakes.
The Majlis Course
The Majlis course at the Emirates Golf Club is a challenging 7,301-yard, par-72 layout. Sculptured around the original tall desert dunes in 1987, The Majlis was the first grass course in the Middle East, and plays host to the Dubai Desert Classic on the European Tour schedule.
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Reward your success
Black Mountain Editorial by Ian Lenton
Rated Number One Championship Golf Course in Thailand 19
The extra effort that Black Mountain has made during 2009 paid off by being recognised as the Best Championship Course in Thailand.
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In this years round of Asia’s most prominent golf industry awards, The Asian Golf Monthly Awards, Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand reached a milestone when ranked Fourth Best Championship course in the Asia Pacific Region. “To be rated the highest Championship Golf Course in Thailand and fourth in Asia Pacific is certainly an honour that we at Black Mountain are very proud of. We have set goals for ourselves and to achieve this in only our third year is amazing and very rewarding”, said Mr. Elisson, General Manager of Black Mountain Golf Club.
“Winning these kinds of awards is something very special for us, however, it doesn’t mean that we will now rest on our laurels. We will continue to improve the Black Mountain course and the services that we provide. Who knows, maybe one day we can reach the number one course in Asia-Pacific too”, commented Mr. Elisson. 2009 also marked a big year for Black Mountain with the hosting of the “Black Mountain Masters 2009” Asian Tour Professional Event. Swedish player Johan Edfors dominated the event and was supported well by the large Scandinavian
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Swedish golfer, Johan Edfors dominated the 2009 Black Mountain Masters. He was a popular player with the large Scandinavean crowd. crowd. Edfors was so impressed with Black Mountain that he purchased one of the course side villas. Recently, Black Mountain completed the construction of the course-side condominium project and has maintained their high standards with both building and fit out. Each unit, with its contemporary feel, takes advantage of its location overlooking the well-maintained fairways and provides residents with a perfect mix of luxury and scenery. Mr. Elisson commented, “we are so pleased with the results of the condominium project and the response from the public and our customers has been extremely positive. Some of the floors are now completely sold out and we have high expectations to finalise sales of all units this high season.
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Residents have started to occupy their units too and the Black Mountain community is growing fast.” Included in the estate are some impressive facilities such as: two infinity swimming pools that sit adjacent to the fairways and overlook the course, several poolside sun decks, a residents convenience store, stylish restaurant, sauna, steam sauna and gymnasium. Mr. Elisson commented, “we have gone the extra mile in making sure that all of our condominiums are finished with the same high standards that we instill in our golf course. In the end, customer satisfaction is our main goal and we are confident that all our owners will be very pleased with their purchase.”
Photo: Richard Castka/Sportpixgolf.com
Many residents have already moved in to their brand new apartment.
For more information visit www.bmghuahin.com. 23
Live Different!
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Jumeirah Island
Swing Image just visited the site of one of the most exclusive and luxurious resort developments in Asia, Jumeirah Private Island in Phuket, Thailand, and discovered an island paradise that few will ever experience.
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At some point in our lives we have all imagined The Development Private Island is just a five-minute helicopter ride living on an idyllic island, surrounded by Jumeirah from Phuket International Airport. If you prefer, estate owners turquoise waters and edged with soft, white can take a 20-minute chauffeur-driven limousine journey to sandy beaches, it is hard to believe that such the coast, and then be whisked to their own rather generous portions of paradise on a private launch. This limited journey a place could actually exist. While one could, time is a priceless bonus for executives wanting to escape of course, purchase one’s own island the day-to-day as quickly as possible, something that endless internal flights and long car journeys can only mar. paradise, the investment on such a piece of In order to avoid a clash of architectural styles, the developers have already confirmed that the hotel, spa, yacht land would be considerable. Thanks to insider contacts, Swing Image was given the opportunity to visit a new island development in the Andaman Sea, just off the eastern shores of Phuket in Thailand. Making the way from the mainland to this Xanadu, called Jumeirah Private Island, we took in the truly stunning views of Phuket’s verdant mainland and the hundreds of limestone islands that appear to float in the crystal clear waters. We obviously did some research before arriving in Thailand, and the literature which the team behind the project had sent us was suitably impressive, portraying a private deepwater marina (with 24hr access), a fivestar deluxe all-villa hotel managed by world-renowned Jumeirah Group out of Dubai, a private yacht club, spa and wellness centre and luxury estate homes. 26
club and residential estates will all have an Asian theme throughout, with substantial use of local hardwoods, granite and stone, utilizing the skills of local craftsmen for wood and stone carving, which will feature strongly in the designs.
The Hotel
The Island’s hotel is, in fact, a series of individual villas, each with their own pool and based around the contours of the land and the existing vegetation. The administration centre of the hotel will be located on the mainland, so guests will benefit from the maximum of recreation areas on the island. All villas will have a dedicated butler service, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and the list of amenities that will be available for hotel guests is seriously impressive: a 1400 square meter spa and wellness centre, three themed restaurants and two bars, a state-ofthe-art business centre, tennis courts, gym and fitness centre with personal trainers, yacht charters and an accredited dive
centre. Jumeirah Island will provide memberships at the Blue Canyon Golf and Country Club, consistently voted a number one course in Asia, as part of an optional premium package. As for who runs the hotel, this Jumeirah Group is one of the top hotel management groups in the world.The chosen group will also take on the management of the entire Island and they will manage the estate houses on behalf of the owners, and provide them with hotel service 24/7, including in-house dining.
The Residential Estate
Those building their own customized estate homes will be an exclusive breed, as a very limited number of estate homes are planned on plots ranging in size from over one to five acres, many with direct frontage to the beach and all with stunning sea and island views. Furthermore, available options in their purchase will be preferential mooring rights in the Marina, together with a membership in the exclusive Jumeirah
Private Island Yacht Club, as well as full access to the hotel and spa services. The latest fiber-optic technology will ensure a complete communications system so that homeowners are assured of the latest high speed internet access in the privacy of their own Villa. Privacy and security will be an important factor with access to the Island only possible by helicopter or the Island’s launches, and all estate owners and yacht club members will have their own biometric identification, whilst hotel guests will be issued with ID passes incorporated within their room keys. As well as the glossy brochures, the developers have put together a management structure including a Board of Directors that boasts international property developers who, between them, have over 120 years of experience. 27
It is a perfect and highly exclusive mix and, although not cheap, the prices quoted for pieces of this paradise are very competitive compared to similar developments underway around the world, which lack Jumeirah Private Island’s enviable location, quality infrastructure, luxurious amenities and proximity to international links.
The Marina
Adjoining the marina will be a yacht club, which will have outstanding facilities and where membership will be by invitation only. As part of the Hotel and Marina, there will be a connoisseur deli, where residents can buy their staples (fresh fruit, meat and vegetables and freshly-baked bread) and order
items from the mainland (which will be delivered directly to their door), or even partake in a daily international newspaper over a croissant and latte at the village cafĂŠ. The Marina is being built within a natural protected bay, with a total commitment to preserve the established mangrove and other flora and fauna, which form a lush backdrop, all work being undertaken will be to the highest environmental standards. Situated adjacent to an existing deep-water channel, the Marina will allow even the largest private yachts to have access
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at all states of the tide, and boats up to 90 meters can be accommodated. Anyone familiar with this part of the world will know that accessible deep-water marinas are extremely rare in Thailand, unless they are commercial ports. We are not aware of any other Thai marina that can take these superyachts and offer all of the facilities available at Jumeirah Private Island. The developers say, and Swing Image has to agree, that it will set new standards across the boards. Remind your accountant after you have placed your order at Sunseeker, that tax and fuel prices are significantly cheaper here than in Europe, the US or Australasia. Work on the Marina is over 70% complete and it is targeted to accept yachts very soon.
Privacy, Security, Luxury Live on Asia’s most exclusive private island
LONDON
NEW YORK
DUBAI
Jumeirah Private Island, Phuket Each private villa is uniquely individual, offering you the luxury of personal space in one of the world’s most distinctive locations combined with a memorable Jumeirah Stay Different™ experience. - Jumeirah Luxury Hotel - Private Residential Villas - Talise Spa - 115 Berth Superyacht Marina - Private Yacht Club For villa sales info contact: matt.millen@tgr – asia.com +66 8 1968 5357
www.jumeirahprivateisland.com
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Darren Clarke
Interview by Paul Mahoney
Darren Clarke doesn’t do small. He has hands like shovels and a big grin to greet you. He has big hair and a twinkle in his eye and, on occasion, he has been known to have a big drink and a big cigar. And, in case anyone hasn’t noticed, he’s 6ft 2½ inches tall and weighs 14st (that’s 189cm and 89kg in new money). And he carries all that around wrapped up in a big personality with a big aura. There is something warm and cuddly and approachable about Clarke. He is one of the most popular players in Europe and the States with players and fans alike. He could be your best friend. But there is also something dangerous and intimidating about him.You get the feeling he knows it, too. And likes it. He could be your worst enemy. He was once asked if there was anyone he wouldn’t mess with on tour if it came to a fistfight. Ernie Els? Phil Mickelson? Vijay Singh? “They’re big guys but I’d stand my ground.” Tiger Woods? “If he didn’t run away.” The thing is, all those guys are multiple major champions, while Clarke hasn’t won any. He is still fighting for that elusive first one. Clarke is a bigtime player and Ryder Cup legend but he hasn’t been playing big in the majors for several years. Now that he has entered his forties, time is running out and Clarke knows it. But he also knows that Singh won majors in his forties and won more tournaments, too, than he did before. So Clarke has been working out in the gym and tearing a strip out of driving ranges around the world. He says he feels a second career is about to start. His career so far has racked up 16 victories since he turned professional in 1990 and £15.5 million in prize money, which places him 6th in the alltime career earnings money list on the European Tour (Colin Montgomerie is 1st with £21.5 million). But all that is merely statistics and history. Clarke is looking to the future with hope for the first time in a long while. It is three years since his wife, Heather, died of cancer, and Clarke’s career was put on hold while he dealt with his grief and comforted his two boys, Tyrone and Conor, who were then 10 and 8. During this tragic chapter for his family, Clarke slipped out of the world’s top 100 for the first time, where he still languishes. Clarke’s boys are older now and doing well at school, and time, Clarke says, has been a healer. “I’ve been fortunate in the sense that my poor play has allowed me to spend so much quality time with the boys over the last couple of years.That’s been great for me and for them but not so good for my golf.” Clarke feels that the time is right to get back to being a globetrotting golfer and to fight to regain his place among the game’s elite. It is time to be big again. “I want to get back into the top 50,” he says, “so that I am competing regularly in the majors and the WGC events. Missing out in those tournaments really hurt me when it came to qualifying for the Ryder Cup last year. I am probably working harder than ever before. I am back in the gym and that has never been one of my most enjoyable tasks. But I’ve had to do it. I worked hard to get back into the winner’s circle last year in Holland and China. I felt it was coming. There are more wins in me. I’m not done yet,” he smiles. The cheeky grin is back on Clarke’s face. It is good to see him laughing again. 31
How long did it take for your life to get back to normal after your wife, Heather, died?
You are now in your forties. Are you where you thought you would be in your career right now?
Well, what’s normal? It’s still not normal. It can’t be normal when you haven’t got the mother of your kids and my wife at home. I was starting to get back to an even keel probably at the start of 2008. It was a long time. There were some dark moments. God knows things have been difficult for me, but it has been even harder for the boys. It has been tough having to deal with things. And tough being thrown in to being 100% responsible for my two kids as opposed to 50%. Heather did much more than 50% because I was away all the time. Women are the ones who keep the house together and make sure the kids are OK.That’s just the way it was with Heather. Then obviously things changed when Heather passed away. I had to start making the decisions for everything for the boys. I’m very lucky to have the help of Eddie and Alice, a Czech couple who have been with us for more than 10 years, since Heather and I moved to England.
I would have hoped to have won more tournaments by this stage. But, you know, Heather got ill right at the time when I was winning a lot. I’m not using Heather’s illness as an excuse. But it’s a fact. Then my focus was much more on Heather’s health.
How will it feel if you never win a major? It will be disappointing because I have always thought I have enough talent to win one. But probably I haven’t been as mentally strong as I should have been. A lot of people will probably back that up. I’m pretty impatient. I want things done yesterday. And if not, then why not? I am aware of it and I try to be more patient. I do win occasionally (smiles). But I’m getting better. I’m more tolerant of myself and of others. I’ve done everything I can to try to win a major. If I
“Rudeness is my number one hate. ‘Please’ and ‘thank you’ are two of the easiest things in the world to say. If you haven’t got manners, you haven’t got anything”
They live in the annex of the house and have known the boys since they were babies. Without them and my family I couldn’t do what I’m doing. Making the day-to-day decisions for the boys has been a shock to the system.You don’t realise how much wives have got to do until you’ve got to do it yourself.
Did you feel anger after the hurt? Probably. I’m sure anybody would. You know, why Heather? Why? Why? Why? There are no answers to that.
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had been as mentally strong as Padraig (Harrington), I would have done much better. Haven’t done it so far. The Open feels like my best chance. It suits my game best because of my affinity with links golf growing up playing Royal Portrush and all those links courses in Ireland.
Did you start out with ambitions to be World No.1? I never started out thinking I wanted to be No.1. I started out because I enjoyed it and I was reasonably good at it. I wanted to be a professional golfer travelling the world trying to win tournaments. I’ve done OK at that.
I hate gamesmanship. My philosophy is simple: play hard, try to win, and then have a drink with your opponent afterwards. That’s what golf - and life - is all about.
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So being No.1 has never been the be-all and end-all for you? No. In the Tiger Woods era in which I have played, being No.1 has been pretty much unattainable. Having said that, Tiger has brought an awful lot to the game that few others have been able to do. The prize funds we are playing for and the quality of everything in golf is directly linked to Tiger. He has made it harder for us to win but it’s sweeter when we do. We should all be grateful to Tiger. He is probably the No.1 sportsman in the world and we are very fortunate to have him in our sport.
How did you and Tiger become friends? We are pretty good pals but we are not in touch all the time. He’s a real good guy. We initially met playing in the Open at Royal Lytham (in 1997) and then later when he and I were both being coached by Butch Harmon I was fortunate to spend quite a bit of time with him and got to know him pretty well. When Clarke beat Tiger in the final of the 2000 Andersen Consulting Match Play tournament, Clarke says Tiger left a note in his locker. It said: “Congratulations. Be proud.” Clarke sill has that note. “You can tell more about a person in defeat than you can in victory,” Clarke says.
Do you see what Tiger does and shake your head in disbelief? We all do things differently. And he is better than most of us at nearly everything. But he doesn’t do it every day. But I relish the opportunities to play with and against him because you’ve got to test yourself against the best player in the world.
What’s the most pressure you’ve ever felt on a golf course? First tee at the K Club in the Ryder Cup (2006). For obvious reasons (Clarke’s wife, Heather, had died of cancer just six weeks earlier). That was pressure.
You seemed to handle it pretty well: drive of the day, birdie. (Laughs). Yeah, I don’t know how I managed to do it but I did. That was the most pressure by a long way.
Did it surprise you just how emotional that moment was going to be? No. I knew it was gong to be a difficult scenario. But the reception I received was unbelievable. 34
(Lee Westwood, his fourball partner, on that K Club comeback: “Hmm, yes, that was an interesting moment. I didn’t say a lot to Darren before we walked out to the tee. I didn’t realise it was going to be as emotional as it was. I was in bits.You can imagine what Darren was going through. It made me worse when I looked at his caddie - Billie (Foster, now working for Westwood) was crying. I was all right until then. But I crumbled.)
You must be a shoo-in to captain Europe in the future? Hopefully. If they invite me, I would enjoy that. I would stress the importance of sportsmanship. It’s a game. It’s not life or death. I hate gamesmanship. My philosophy is simple: play hard, try to win, and then have a drink with your opponent afterwards. That’s what golf - and life - is all about. But, hey, I’ve still got a few Ryder Cups left in me as a player.
Did you think you were a dead-cert to get a wildcard pick last year? My biggest regret was not playing well enough to qualify automatically. But I felt I had a really good chance to get picked. Especially knowing that the captain had said earlier in the year that he was planning on picking people on form and was paying no attention to the rankings. It’s black and white. That’s what he said. So obviously with winning the
Dutch Open one week before his team was finalised, the timing was pretty good. And it was the manner in which I won, too. Going head-to-head against Henrik (Stenson), one of the best players in the world, and I won by four shots. So I thought I had done enough to get a pick. But, you know, Nick (Faldo) did it his way, and that’s the way it is. He always does, he always did, and he always will.
What would you have brought to the team? Probably my sarcasm (grins). You know: been there, done that, relaxed, knowing what to expect. And a bit of banter.
Did you follow any of it on TV? I watched every shot on television and even had my laptop by my side switched on to the live scoring. I never realised how good it is to watch. When you are involved in the Ryder Cup as I have been you concentrate so much on your own play that a lot of what goes on passes you by. But this time I was able to take it all in. I couldn’t believe some of the shots the guys were playing – under so much pressure.They were stiffing it here, there and everywhere. It was sensational. I was watching with sweaty palms on Sunday night. It was tough having to sit there and not be able to do anything.
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I don’t look at myself as being famous. I’m just a golfer. I just like to go to the pub and have a pint of Guinness.That’s me.
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What do you think your public image is?
The private jet must be fun.
Somebody that has a good time. A normal bloke who is fortunate to play golf and sometimes reasonably well. I am lucky that I get warm receptions everywhere I go.
It makes life a lot easier. I get to spend more time at home. I can jump on a plane and get home again to the boys. It works out that you gain an extra week at home per year. That’s massive. But it’s only a share in a jet (with Lee Westwood). I don’t take it all the time. I do fly commercial, too.
What characteristics do you dislike in others? An inability to see the bigger picture. Sometimes people need to step back and see what’s really going on. I had to do that with my golf. But rudeness is my number one hate. ‘Please’ and ‘thank you’ are two of the easiest things in the world to say. I try to instill that in my two boys. I have a game with them called Birdies and Bogeys. They get rewarded when they get to 25 under and heavily penalised at five over. If you haven’t got manners, you haven’t got anything.
When you were a kid, did you dream of being famous and rich driving fast cars and flying in jets? Ah, the trappings of success (ponders). Probably. I’ve always been generous rewarding myself with things. I’ve always liked the cars, the wine and the cigars. Now more than ever. We’re only here once.You’ve just got to enjoy it. I don’t look at myself as being famous. I’m just a golfer. I just like to go to the pub and have a pint of Guinness. That’s me. Arthur and I are good friends. But we do have the odd falling out (Arthur, for you beer and lager drinkers, is Arthur Guinness, creator of, well, Guinness in 1759).
Legend has it that you have an infamous Black Book. Ah yes (grins). The Black Book. There aren’t that many people in there at all, really. There are a few who have crossed the line, and if I think what they have said about me is unjustified, I’ve let them know. We golfers get rewarded handsomely for playing well and we get a lot of good press. But we also get a lot of bad press. But that’s fine; it’s part of the job. If I’ve played like a dick, I deserve to get slagged off. But when a few of them get personal and say things that are factually incorrect and have a go at me for no reason, then I take exception. But I’m pretty fair. We’ve all got jobs to do. But there is a line.
Is there a way out of the Black Book? I do forgive over time.
Do you approach them or do they have to come to you? They’ll find out (grins).
What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a cigar? I wouldn’t want to say. A lot (smiles). Cigars can’t really get that expensive but the wine can. Wine can get silly.
And you’ve got silly? Yes (still smiling).
Is it a proper Black Book? No, it’s all in here (points to his head). A lot has been made of the Black Book but there are really not that many names in it. There are only two at the moment. They know who they are.
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Red Mountain
The latest 18-hole course to be built in Phuket -Thailand, is Loch Palm’s sister course
Red Mountain Golf Club. Winding its way through a truly dramatic tin mine site in the heart of the island, Red Mountain is already one of Asia’s most exciting and discussed courses. The Red Mountain course has been cleverly routed to take advantage of a huge variety of landforms and dizzying elevation changes. Scars left from the tin mine era have been imaginatively incorporated into the overall scheme, creating a unique character and at the same time establishing an indelible link with an important era in the Island’s past .
The course name ‘Red Mountain’ describes very well the characteristics of the course, with the red-soiled mountains lining the fairways, and also being surrounded by lush tropical rain forest. Designer Jon Morrow and co-designer Al Tikkanen have created a highly strategic and 6,900 yard challenging lay-out to complement the gentler more relaxed Loch Palm Course. While the course is undoubtedly challenging, numerous risk and reward options create a fun playing environment.You will be sure to experience an exhilarating test of golf while viewing breathtaking scenes around a course that’s destined to become a golfing landmark for Asia. The drastic clashing of pure red from the scenic mountains against the undulating green fairways creates a spectacle for all golfers to enjoy. Due to the design of the course which winds its way thru the mountains of Kathu, golfers experience a feeling of privacy on every hole as if the course was theirs for the day. With a full mixture of hole designs and lengths, your round of golf will flow with a sense of different characteristics on every hole. Images from Red Mountain have featured in many worldwide golf publications, with the14th being of the most photographed golf holes in Asia. A hole well discussed is the Par 5, 2nd, a testament to course management that could set you back early in your round if played recklessly. Standing on the tee-box you face an uphill drive without any sight of the green.The fairway doglegs sharply to the right hiding the green behind a mountain, hence any players wishing to hit the green in two shots will need to position themselves a long way up the left hand side of the fairway.
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The 8th hole is a downhill risk and reward - Par 4 reachable to the long hitters. Any slight miss-hit will flirt with the water hazards on the left and right side. For safety, an easy lay-up seems to be sensible play. Demanding both length and accuracy is the Par 3,14th. With water winding its way up the right side of the hole from tee-box to a wide yet shallow green. Only a quality strike will leave the ball safely on the putting surface.
Wildlife and Environment The club meets international standards amid a state of the art golf course with an eye for preserving nature and a philosophy of being at one with its surrounding environment. It’s clear to the naked eye that a great deal of care was taken during the construction of the Red Mountain not to destroy the existing natural vegetation, keeping intact the presented wildlife you may see and hear whilst strolling down a fairway. When playing the course you will also notice that the native plants and trees are labeled with their correct name which again shows the amount of time and care that has gone into this project. Red Mountain and Loch Palm are members of IGOLF, and continue to work closely with them finding new ways of reducing their impact on the environment. IGOLF is one of the world’s leading environmental sustainability organizations 40
based in Switzerland, promoting eco solutions on golf courses around the world from using organic chemicals to reducing waste.
The Clubhouse A superbly designed terrace restaurant serving 5 star cuisine with live sports on screens adds to the atmosphere within the clubhouse. The terrace overlooks the 18th hole winding its way down a ravine to the green - a grand finishing hole for both players and spectators. As you enter the Red Mountain clubhouse you will find a well stocked professional shop with all the latest leading golfing brands. Making life easy for golfers travelling without golfing equipment, it is possible to use a wide range of top brand rental clubs including - Nike,Taylormade, Ping, and Cobra with different shaft flexes and weights. Golf shoes are also available to purchase or rent.
Corporate Events In today’s world when you only have one stone, it’s important to hit two birds. Treat your partners and colleagues to the finest golf available while getting important business decisions made. The club can look after your business partners and colleagues by organizing your day from scoring a mini tournament, ‘closest-to-the-pin’ challenges, buffet or a-la-carte 41
dining. The club will even help set up a corporate event room to tackle your business agenda catered precisely to your group’s needs. Since opening, Red Mountain has held numerous corporate events from some of the country’s leading banks such as Kasikorn Bank to companies such as Honda, Isuzu, TV 9 Australia, Citibank, Michelin, the Stock Exchange of Thailand, OHI and SCG.
Memberships Red Mountain’s membership packages are currently planned to be launched in the upcoming months. Individual, Family and Corporate packages will be available with a variety of benefits, not to mention becoming a part of one of Thailand’s most exclusive golfing venues. ____________________________________ For further details on upcoming membership packages contact: info@redmountainphuket.com
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for information on corporate golf days visit 44
www.redmountainphuket.com
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@lochpalm.com Web: www.redmountainphuket.com 45
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Where do you play most of your golf? Being based in Singapore, we have some fantastic courses so I try to get out and play at least once a week. I play a lot at Orchid Country Club which is a forgiving course as it’s quite open, but I do enjoy testing myself at Sentosa, Warren and the Singapore Island Country Club. I feel quite lucky to be able to play them on a regular basis.
Interview: Sean Harrison
Do you play in many corporate and charity golf days? Yes, a few, I enjoy the competition. There are a few here in Singapore and I also get invited to play in Thailand. I enjoy the team format. I know golf is an individual sport, but when playing together it adds a little more to the competition. When we play in the charity event at Laguna in Phuket each year the guys are great and it’s serious. Everyone pulls together and helps each other along which is why I like the team format. I suppose it comes from my football days and being part of a team.
In front of a few golf spectators, is it a fact that professional footballers who play in front of 30 000 to 70 000 fans each week struggle with nerves on the 1st tee - and why? Being professional at any sport means that you have a talent to do something well. Now, we all know footballers love their golf and play quite a lot, but playing football in front of 10 000, 30 000 or 50 000 fans isn’t
“Bandits at golf tournaments do my head in. Clubs need to clamp down and stop the cheats playing.”
Paul Masefield
Former right-back, Paul Masefield, began his footballing career in the youth ranks alongside Alan Shearer at Southampton before signing his first professional contract with Birmingham City. He then played for Preston North End alongside future Everton Manager - David Moyes. Paul now lives in Singapore and is a football pundit on ESPN Star Sports for coverage of the English Premier League. He also owns a company that runs a football coaching school for children which attracts as many as 3,000 pupils a year. Outside the football studio his biggest passion is golf. 48
an issue as it’s your job and you are used to it. But, a footballer on the 1st Tee with 10 people watching - that’s different. I have seen football stars crumble on the tee box. The thought of embarrassment or failure with that opening tee shot is just something they sometimes find hard to deal with.
Who is the best golfer out of the footballers you know? When I played back in England, David Moyes was quite tidy with a handicap of 8. Since I started working at ESPN, I get the chance to play with a lot of guys that come through. Sir
putter, I’m on my third this year and still have problems on the green. Socks - I always carry an extra pair in my bag being superstitious that I have to put my shoes on at the 1st tee and take them off immediately after I’ve played.
Which golf event on television do you look forward to the most? I watch all the major’s without fail but there is something special about the Ryder Cup. The hype, tension, passion – it’s all part of the competition. To see some of the best players in the world humbled because of the pressure is amazing. It
Training with Liverpool legends Steve McMahon and Kenny Dalglish.
Bobby Robson was a pleasure to play with playing off 16, Ian Rush -14, Steve McMahon -14, John Beresford -10, then there’s bandit Rob Lee off 24. Bruce Grobbelaar is the biggest bandit I have ever played with. He said he was off 10, but came in at 3 over par gross for 18 holes. To be fair, the most consistent is Steve McMahon and we always have a laugh when we play.
takes a lot to beat the Ryder cup event as you have foursomes, four-balls and individual matches. To me that encompasses what golf is all about.
Who is the most competitive?
Tiger Woods - 2006 US Masters - par 3, 16th hole. That chip in for the birdie 2 was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen in sport and I have watched it again and again on Youtube. The concentration levels Tiger had for that shot were unbelievable. The commentator summed it up ‘Wow, Oh my goodness’. On Sportscenter, we had to each choose a most memorable moment from sport. I surprised everyone by picking this shot from Tiger as my most memorable moment - not a football related moment. It was quite simply breathtaking.
Steve McMahon, without hesitation, question or doubt. Prison rules apply when we play.
What do you have in your golf bag? Unlike the professionals I don’t have four wedges - I only have three. My favourite club is my 64 degree custom made lob wedge that I still can’t use properly. I use the Cleveland hibor and I’m hitting that quite well at the moment. As for my
The one golf shot on TV you will always remember?
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Most memorable golf events ? My first choice - The1996 Masters at Augusta. Nick Faldo started 6 shots behind Greg Norman going into the final round. For me the 67 from Faldo on the Sunday was a memorable display of concentration and consistency which put pressure on Norman and showed how good Faldo really was. It just goes to prove that if you hang in there and play solid golf you will always have a chance. Second choice - The 2002 Ryder Cup match at the Belfry. Not one of the most memorable Ryder Cups. But after the debacle of the matches at the Country Club in Boston, 1999, I believe that what goes around comes around. The putt that Justin Leonard made on the17th was brilliant, but what
watched him at the 1999 World Cup of Golf played at the Mines Resort in Malaysia. Tiger and Mark O’Meara played some scintillating golf and blew the field away winning with ease. I also follow Simon Dyson. I have met Simon a few times and I am pleased he continues to win tournaments.
Who do you see as up and coming stars? Rory Mcllroy shows all the potential. He has already won over 2 Million Euros so far this season. That’s not bad for a 20 year old that has just broken onto the scene in the past year. On the Asian front - I played with an incredibly young talented Korean, Noh Seung-yul in Brunei last year. He was 18 years old then, and went on to win his first tournament - The Midea China Classic. He is so cool and composed for a young
Boston 1999 - The putt that Justin Leonard made was brilliant, but what happened next wasn’t. The incident that Sunday was a black day for golf.
happened next wasn’t. The Americans ran across the green before Jose Maria Olazabal had the chance to hole out. The one thing that makes golf different to many other sports is the etiquette. Golf is built on fantastic foundations and for me, the incident on the 17th hole that Sunday was a black day for golf. In fact, veteran broadcaster Alistair Cooke described the last day of the tournament as “a date that will live in infamy” – hence why I have picked the Ryder Cup 2002 at the Belfry, England, in which the Europeans won the Ryder Cup back. I believe that it was needed to portray golf in the right image.
The best player you have seen at an event and do you have any favourite players to follow? Tiger Woods. Who doesn’t like watching Tiger? He is the best and can produce something out of nothing when needed. I 50
star and after playing that round with him, I would tip him as one of the next big Asian stars to go on and do much bigger things.
The best courses you have played? Tricky. Living in Asia you are spoilt for choice. Ria Bintan in Indonesia is stunning and probably the best course in Asia. The Blue Canyon C.C. in Phuket is a magnificent track and so is the Thai Country Club in Bangkok. The Sentosa G.C. in Singapore poses its own problems as does The Mines in Malaysia. In the UK, Royal St George’s was an interesting course. I did fall in love with Crail which is just north of St Andrew’s. Apparently Pebble Beach is based on the layout from Crail. But if I had to choose one course it would be The Belfry. I used to play there all the time when I played for Birmingham
City, as our goalkeeper’s brother was the course professional. I always try to play there when I go back to Birmingham and have seen the course change in so many ways over the past 20 years. For me it is always a good test of golf and with the changes that has been made to the Brab (Brabazon) it will always gives you something to think about.
From the courses in the world you have not played, which ones would be 1st on your list? Everyone wants to play where golf started - The Old Course at St Andrews. I am going back to the UK in April and hope to play St Andrews along with Loch Lomond, Carnoustie and of course my favourite, The Belfry. I would also love to have a go on some of the American tracks (that’s planned for 2010) like Pebble Beach, Bethpage, Bridgestone and of course Augusta National. It’s good to dream!!!
Is there anything in golf that annoys you? Slow play is a nightmare especially in Asia. When you play in Europe you are taught about etiquette and letting faster groups play through. It doesn’t happen as much in Asia, golfers take their own sweet time and disregard what is happening around them. That for me is poor form. Golfers should play at a pace they are comfortable with but, if someone is quicker playing behind - let them through. It’s etiquette Simple as that. Bandits at golf tournaments also do my head in. Particularly when playing the Stableford points system. We have all been there. Have played a good round and finished with 34 – 38 points, only to get into the clubhouse to find that the winning score is 50 points. That for me is no fun and is plain and simple cheating. These people who disrespect golf should be banned from playing in competitions. Golf is a game about spirit, etiquette and a game for gentlemen. Clubs need to clamp down and stop the cheats playing.
How do you think modern equipment has changed golf? It has totally revolutionized the game from gloves – balls clubs to clothes. It is quite amazing how the changes have made such a difference to the way the game is played. Golf is a billion dollar business, so companies have to keep evolving
and produce new products to make money. Yes the products work - A ball that can stop on the green quicker or give you better distance - A club that has a sweet spot the size of a table tennis bat. I think it is good for the mass market and the game as a whole. The Tour pro’s are a different story. I would love to see how Bobby Jones, Sam Snead or Arnold Palmer would have played with the Nike SQ Dynamo2 STR8-Fit driver and using a Polybutadiene Pro V1 Titleist ball. Imagine the number of Majors Jack Nicklaus would have won if he’d had the equipment used today. On the flip side, would Tiger be the player he is if he would have used their clubs! You have to accept that changes to any sport will happen. In golf I believe it’s still about one thing though - the individuals talent.
Do you agree with 515 yard par- 4 holes? Technology demands it! The equipment being produced means the ball travels further and we can be more accurate. Tour players are launching the ball 350 yards so at a pro level yes, I believe it’s acceptable. For amateur golfers - let’s be honest. It’s a tad too far for most of us to reach a hole this length with two shots. I think common sense needs to prevail for amateur golfers.
Do you think the Race to Dubai has been good for the European Tour so far? I think it has been put on the Tour calendar to compete with the PGA Tour and the season ending Fedex Cup. With competition to get the best players to play on either the PGA Tour or the European Tour, a big cash injection was needed to ensure some of the big stars play in Europe. The only problem for me is that the purse is so huge for a one off event, although it does mean the players will have to be consistent all year round to be in the top 60, or the top 15 for the big bonus purse. But for me, consistency comes from week out week in. I compare it to football. Example - You work your socks off to be top of the league, but you then have to play a one off game at the end of the season that could give you all the glory. Lee Westwood is currently in top spot. How do you think he will feel getting beaten by someone who has finished say 14th on tour? The accolades should go to Westwood and the financial rewards with it. But Dubai will make for interesting viewing and I for one will be watching.
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Imagine for one month, you are a TV pundit for golf instead of football. Ooh yes, I wish, I think that would be the perfect job. People don’t realise that football was my job but my passion is golf. Don’t get me wrong, football is my life and has been since 5 years old and all I have ever done or known. But you do need a release and my release valve is golf. To be able to talk about something that you love doing is the best job in the world.
What ideas would you have for the game/tour? The one thing that I can see happening eventually is a World Tour. To have the best from the US, Europe, Africa, Australasia and Asia play week in and week out would be a spectacle everyone would want to tune in to. It has happened in other sports and with golf now becoming an Olympic sport it’s only a question of time before we have a tour designed in this way.
Tell us about the game with Vijay Singh and the memorable shot? I was invited by Etihad Airways to play in the Abu Dhabi classic pro-am. I was out having a few beers the night before the
pro-am and the guy from Etihad said we have got the world No 2 for you to play with. I didn’t quite know what to expect, so I grabbed a good friend of mine Damien Taylor, who coaches some of the pro’s on tour and had an emergency lesson before we started. We strolled up to the 1st tee. Apart from 500 spectators ready to watch the golf - John Daly and Vijay were on the tee box. We shake hands, do the photo shoots and it’s time to tee off. We went ahead of the John Daly group, so Vijay’s first up and smacks a 350 yard drive down the middle of the fairway, which is about as wide as my coffee table at home. In football terms it’s called ‘Squeaky bum time’. I pull out my 3-wood and in front of 500 spectators start to sweat. The thought of making an idiot of yourself on the 1st tee in front of all those people makes you nervous. I managed to hit a half decent tee shot that ran off the fairway and into the rough. So walking down to our balls, Vijay’s caddie says ‘Paul, do you want a reading? I was very surprised to see him take out his yardage laser and tell me I had 130 yards to the front of the green - 135 to the pin. I pulled out my wedge and just gave it a good slap. The ball bounced twice on the green and rolled into the hole for a two. The spectators following us all went mad, cheering, applauding and whooping (as the fans do) and then I went to tip my cap (as you do) and then realised I didn’t have it on. Vijay said ‘Where did that come from to which I replied ‘I don’t know’. He laughed and said ‘well it’s not a bad start - you get a shot on this hole so that’s us at 3 under after one hole. That’s my moment in pro-am golf stardom. I birdied the next and was still 3-under after 5 holes. That’s when the round went downhill. Vijay was a smashing guy, as was his caddie Paul, and once Vijay knew I was an ex-professional footballer and worked on ESPN he was friendly, talkative and interested to know about me. I have to say for someone who was world No 2 he was a very humble person who I have a lot of time and respect for. He did wind me up though. I was hitting my 3 wood off each tee and after about 7 holes he told me to get the big dog out - or did I leave it with my Mrs. He has his funny side too. Playing with Vijay Singh in the Abu Dhabi Classic Pro - Am.
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Thailand Tee Times
Photo courtesy of Red Mountain - Phuket
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Thailand Tee Times
Booking tee times has never been this easy. 57
With real-time access, golfers can now book and confirm their tee times in an instant. ThaiGolfTimes.com is pleased to be a proud partner of the Global Golf Membership Network. This network has been established to provide golfers access to the best golf courses around the world, with the best prices these establishments have to offer. With Thailand as the entry to this program, we hope you will take advantage of the benefits provided as we keep you updated on the growth of additional facilities available. You will be able to receive the best green fee rates on offer from some of the best golf courses and clubs around the world. These rates are unique to ThaiGolfTimes.com. With so many excellent golf courses throughout the country you will want to play as many courses as possible, whilst receiving the best rates possible. Thailand offers many outstanding golf courses, designed by some of the leading golf course architects in the world. For simplicity of booking, Thailand has been divided into eight geographical regions, so that you can narrow your search to the leading courses in your desired area. The golf experience in Thailand is second to none. World famous hospitality, wonderfully conditioned golf courses 58
of international standard, plus the charm and grace of the Thai people will ensure that your golf experience is one to remember. ThaiGolfTimes.com has been developed with the concept of providing the golfers the simplest and most convenient method of booking and securing their tee times. It has also been developed to provide golf courses with secured bookings and to promote Thailand as an international golfing destination. ThaiGolfTimes.com will actively promote the outstanding golf courses that are available throughout The Kingdom and to introduce new golfers to these facilities. ThaiGolfTimes.com is comprised of an expert team of professionals dedicated to providing the utmost in service to the golf consumer and golf industry alike. Our professionals boast over 50 years of service in the golf industry and over 30 years in the IT industry. With this comprehensive and unique approach, ThaiGolfTimes.com is dedicated to providing the greatest golf experience in Thailand; rewarding both our loyal golfers and golf course operators alike. ThaiGolfTimes.com has been in the making for 18 months and has seen us research, interview and develop the site using the most modern technology available. Our objective is to ensure the ultimate golf experience for our golfers, at the same time providing our golf course partners with the best possible results from a real-time golf booking solution.
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A selection of 1,2 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments available immediately Suited for high end professionals located within walking distance to the City Peninsular Court, located in Islington, is one of London’s most popular inner city regions for both visitors and residents. Only five minutes from trendy Upper Street where there are a multitude of bars, restaurants and shopping in the unique local markets and designer boutiques.
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Paul Lynch paullynch.mac@mac.com +44 (0) 7971 016 072
CloCkwise from bottom-left D.J. and Steve; the school’s unassuming entrance; Hugh Grant one of the School’s well-known pupils; Clockwise from Lowndes Square; a pupil in bottom left the nets. • D.J. and Steve • the school’s unassuming entrance • Hugh Grant, one of the school’s well-known pupils
Published by: Elliott & Thompson www.elliottthompson.com/books Available at: www.waterstones.com www.whsmith.co.uk Amazon.co.uk
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THE GOLF DELUSION 23
Leslie King, the Knightsbridge Golf School and the Golf Delusion Knightsbridge is one of the most prestigious locations in Europe. It is home to the rich and the famous, the socialites and the aristocrats and – surprisingly enough – to one of the most glamorous and successful golf schools in the world. Located a mere Tiger drive away from Harrods and a short chip from the Harvey Nichols handbag display, a converted squash court beneath a Georgian façade may be the last place you would expect to see a golf lesson taking place. Yet it is our belief that, since its conception in 1951, more lessons have been given at the Knightsbridge Golf School than anywhere else on earth. The School was founded by Leslie King, one of the first instructors to develop a system of teaching the golf swing. He never claimed to have invented a swing, but to have
watched it and categorised it, pulling it apart to enable him to help his pupils build a swing that was as near perfect as possible. He had devised his swing model from watching the great players of his day, building their swing fundamentals into a foolproof technique that could be learnt by all. During the 1970’s and 80’s Mr King passed his knowledge down to us, and over the past twenty years we have developed his original technique into a modelled swing that can be taught to anyone, from the wonderfully talented to the woefully inept. In the time we have been at the School, we have taught tens of thousands of golfers. Sadly, the swings that we see today are no better than those we saw when we first started teaching in the 1970’s. How can this be, in an age where golf instruction is such a massive industry?
Foreword No-one in the world has had more golf lessons, or seen more teachers, than I have. All I can say is that time and gain, I come back to Steve and Dave and they always put me right. I truly believe that their obsession (inherited from Leslie King) with the early part of the backswing is indeed the key to a proper swing.When that part of my swing deteriorates, I have no chance and when they’ve put it back in the groove I play at my best. The same applies to countless friends I’ve sent to their basement, and to my aged father who has never been easy to teach. This book is a brilliant distillation of their wisdom, and if you care about golf you would be insane not to read it.
Hugh Grant 63
A lesson at the school
When a pupil first visits the school we are ready for them before they even walk through the door. As you are by now aware, 9 out of 10 golfers make the same mistakes and we can assure you that this is an absolute fact. Every year, hundreds of new golfers take to the mat and it seems to us that the more books they’ve read, the more DVDs they’ve watched and the more lessons they’ve had, the worse their swings are. In short, they are totally confused! Once we have recorded a new pupil’s swing we replay it and take them through it in great detail, explaining how one poor position invariably leads to another in a series of catastrophic chain reactions. Almost without exception a player will twist or roll the hands and wrists during the takeaway, which immediately destroys the crucial swing plane. From here it is all downhill. At the top of the backswing the club is hopelessly out of position and a good movement through impact and beyond is near impossible. We then carefully reconstruct the swing, pushing and pulling the pupil through the entire sequence slowly and 64
deliberately, explaining each and every part. In effect the swing is built up frame-by-frame, just as it appears on a slow-motion video replay. This is a concept the pupil can easily understand as they can see what is happening throughout the entire movement. By the end of the first lesson, the student has a complete understanding of where the club should be at each and every stage of the swing and has been given a time-tested programme for immediate improvement.
When a pupil first visits the school we are ready for them before they even walk through the door.
THE GOLF DELUSION 2165
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Dubai World Championship
The Race to Dubai
As 51 tournaments through 27 destinations came to an end, Lee Westwood became the first winner of The Race to Dubai.Westwood completed his victory in the Dubai World Championship to overtake Rory McIlroy at the top of The Race to Dubai with the performance of his career.
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On his way to a closing round of 64, Lee Westwood hits his third shot to the Par - 5 18th on Sunday.
Opening rounds of 66, 68 and 66 set him up for the final day in which he hit every fairway and every green in regulation, resulting in a course record eight under par 64 over the Greg Norman-designed Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates and a six stroke victory over playing partner Ross McGowan. In addition to the two trophies – the Dubai World Championship baton and the new Race to Dubai trophy, Westwood pocketed €830,675 and a further €996,810 for topping the Race to Dubai Bonus Pool, taking his season’s earnings to a record €4,237,762. Westwood competed in 26 events during the course of the season, winning twice in the last month of the campaign to take his European Tour tally to 20 titles.The win in Portugal also took him past Mark James and second only to Nick Faldo in the list of England’s most prolific champions. Westwood said: “If you ever wanted a tournament to burst on to the scene and have your first one out, that’s probably as good as it gets out there. You’ve got The Race to Dubai and the two people that are sort of in the frame for winning it coming down the stretch; you probably couldn’t get any better. I think Dubai, the golf course and The European Tour have come out of it looking fantastic. I think it’s a great effort for golf in this region. I think it’s a great advert for golf on The European Tour and shows the quality of the players that we have.”
Ross Fisher finished 4th in the Race to Dubai with 2,531,183 Euros.
From the moment the Race to Dubai started with Robert Karlsson hitting the opening tee shot in Shanghai, players from 40 nations have competed over 382 days, resulting in the top 60 competing in the Dubai World Championship and the top 71
Rory MclLroy finished runner-up in the Race to Dubai, and 3rd place in the Dubai World Championship.
Player
Country
1 WESTWOOD Lee ENG 2 McGOWAN Ross ENG 3 MCILROY Rory NIR 4 HARRINGTON Padraig IRL 4 OGILVY Geoff AUS 6 NOREN Alexander SWE 7 GARCIA Sergio ESP 7 SCOTT Adam AUS 9 HANSON Peter SWE 9 JIMÉNEZ Miguel Angel ESP 9 POULTER Ian ENG
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Scores
Prize Money
-23 -17 -15 -14 -14 -13 -12 -12 -10 -10 -10
€ € € € € € € € € € €
66 71 68 68 70 70 71 68 72 72 71
69 66 69 69 69 69 67 73 71 68 74
66 66 69 69 68 67 69 67 66 69 68
64 68 67 68 67 69 69 68 69 69 65
265 271 273 274 274 275 276 276 278 278 278
830675.17 553781.23 323963.32 224282.30 224282.30 162094.63 139553.42 139553.42 114633.17 114633.17 114633.17
Final Standings Race to Dubai
Ian Poulter moved to 9th in the Race to Dubai, helped by his win in the Singapore Open (picture) and finishing Tied 9th in the Dubai World Championship.
15 walking away with the Bonus Pool. Players from 16 different nations triumphed in The Race to Dubai, with England winning ten, the highest number of trophies. There were15 first-time winners, 14 new course records and 32 hole in ones. Rory McIlroy, finishing 2nd in the R2D (€3,610,020) had the most top 5 finishes this season with 12, and ended the year by becoming only the second 20 year old, after Sergio Garcia, to break into the top ten of the official golf World Rankings Martin Kaymer, with victories in the Open de France ALSTOM and The Barclays Scottish Open, finished 3rd in The Race to Dubai (€2,864,342) with Ross Fisher, winner of the Volvo World Match Play Championship finishing 4th (€2,531,183) Paul Casey, who missed most of the second half of the season with a rib injury, finished just behind Fisher in 5th place (€2,362,947) Casey had been one of the favorites to win The Race to Dubai after his outstanding golf in the first half of the tour schedule, winning the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship and the European Tour’s flagship event, the BMW PGA Championship. The 15th and final place in The Race to Dubai Bonus Pool (€1,468,232) went to three-time Major Champion Padraig Harrington, whose joint fourth place finish in the Dubai World Championship edged him into the top 15 players that shared the $7.5 million Bonus Pool at the end of season. But the 2009 Race to Dubai deservedly belonged to the highest ranked European in the world, Lee Westwood.
PLAYER
Euro’s
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
Lee WESTWOOD Rory MCILROY Martin KAYMER Ross FISHER Paul CASEY Geoff OGILVY Oliver WILSON Simon DYSON Ian POULTER Sergio GARCIA Ernie ELS Ross McGOWAN Søren KJELDSEN Francesco MOLINARI Padraig HARRINGTON Peter HANSON Gonzalo FDEZ-CASTAÑO Henrik STENSON Thongchai JAIDEE Alvaro QUIROS Robert ALLENBY Søren HANSEN Miguel Angel JIMÉNEZ Anders HANSEN Alexander NOREN Charl SCHWARTZEL Retief GOOSEN Thomas LEVET Robert ROCK Camilo VILLEGAS Louis OOSTHUIZEN Johan EDFORS Graeme MCDOWELL Jeev Milkha SINGH Nick DOUGHERTY Adam SCOTT Raphaël JACQUELIN Anthony KIM Rafael CABRERA-BELLO Anthony WALL Scott STRANGE Richard STERNE Peter LAWRIE Chris WOOD Grégory BOURDY Thomas AIKEN Steve WEBSTER David DRYSDALE Graeme STORM Peter HEDBLOM James KINGSTON Justin ROSE Gareth MAYBIN Wen-chong LIANG Luke DONALD Niclas FASTH Bradley DREDGE Danny WILLETT Jamie DONALDSON Damien MCGRANE
4,237,762 3,610,020 2,864,342 2,531,183 2,362,947 2,202,814 2,010,158 1,807,753 1,773,470 1,660,788 1,571,577 1,558,808 1,529,253 1,505,010 1,468,232 1,288,434 1,209,372 1,187,232 1,161,466 1,120,472 1,118,025 1,112,253 1,082,937 1,077,950 1,040,144 983,622 970,851 902,102 889,397 886,288 867,334 862,857 848,571 847,844 833,713 809,185 801,281 759,292 744,297 741,897 727,481 708,884 682,097 679,559 671,376 660,322 654,551 651,634 649,875 648,874 638,960 633,769 625,876 622,348 617,649 612,746 612,378 596,462 594,696 563,128
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The Ryder Cup
2010
Playing the Twenty Ten Course at The Celtic Manor Resort, European Captain Colin Montgomerie and BBC Radio’s Chris Evans took on US Captain Corey Pavin and Welsh Opera star Bryn Terfel in an exhibition match which sportingly finished all square.
The exhibition match was part of the ‘Year to Go’ Celebrations to mark the countdown for The 2010 Ryder Cup, which will be played over the Twenty Ten Course - the first course designed specifically to host The Ryder Cup – 1st to 3rd October 2010.
Ryder Cup Partners, Sponsors and guests from the worlds of hospitality and media walked the fairways with the players, enjoying the match. Banter between the four players highlighted the camaraderie between the Captains but a year from now, things will get serious as Europe attempt to regain The Ryder Cup after last year’s defeat at Valhalla.
The initial ballot for Ryder Cup tickets closed in August, but a second ballot for spectators to apply for tickets opened on Monday September 7, 2009. All unsuccessful applicants from the first ballot will automatically be entered into the second ballot. To enter the second ballot please visit the ryder cup website at: www.rydercup.com
In summing the match up, Montgomerie said: “It was a great game, and I would like to thank Corey for coming all the way over and making this day so special.”
Ryder Cup Hospitality is on sale now. For more information, please visit
Pavin added: “It was a good match and a lot of fun to come and see the golf course again. Next year thousands of people will be here, lining these holes, and it will be tremendous.”
or contact our Ryder Cup Hospitality Team on +44 (0) 1344 840 483.
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www.rydercuphospitality.com
EUROPEAN TOUR EVENT CALENDAR FROM
TO
EVENT
WINNER
VENUE
09 Apr 16 Apr 23 Apr 30 Apr 07 May 14 May 21 May 28 May 04 Jun 18 Jun 18 Jun 25 Jun 02 Jul 09 Jul 16 Jul 23 Jul 30 Jul 06 Aug 13 Aug 20 Aug 27 Aug 03 Sep 10 Sep 17 Sep 01 Oct 08 Oct 15 Oct 22 Oct 29 Oct 05 Nov 12 Nov 19 Nov
12 Apr MASTERS TOURNAMENT Angel Cabrera Augusta National, Augusta, Georgia, USA 19 Apr Volvo China Open Scott Strange Beijing CBD International GC, Beijing, China 26 Apr Ballantine’s Championship Thongchai Jaidee Pinx GC, Jeju Island, South Korea 03 May Open de Espana Thomas Levet PGA Golf de Catalunya, Spain. 10 May Italian Open Daniel Vancsik Royal Park Golf & Country Club, Torino, Italy 17 May The Irish Open Shane Lowry (a) Co Louth Golf Club, Baltray, Drogheda, Ireland 24 May BMW PGA Championship Paul Casey Wentworth Club, Surrey, England 31 May The European Open Christian Cevaér The London Club, England 07 Jun The Celtic Manor Wales Open Jeppe Huldahl The Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, Wales 21 Jun US OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP Lucas Glover Bethpage State Park (Black Course), Farmingdale, New York, USA 21 Jun SAINT-OMER OPEN Christian Nilsson presented by Neuflize OBC Aa Saint Omer GC, Lumbres, France 28 Jun BMW International Open Nick Dougherty Golfclub München Eichenried, Munich, Germany 05 Jul Open de France ALSTOM Martin Kaymer Le Golf National, Paris, France 12 Jul The Barclays Scottish Open Martin Kaymer Loch Lomond GC, Glasgow, Scotland 19 Jul THE 138th OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP Stewart Cink Ailsa Course, Turnberry, Ayrshire, Scotland 26 Jul SAS Masters Ricardo Gonzalez Barsebäck G&CC, Skåne, Sweden 02 Aug Czech Golf Open Oskar Henningsson Prosper Golf Resort, Celadná, Czech Republic 09 Aug WGC - Bridgestone Invitational Tiger Woods Firestone CC, Akron, Ohio, USA 16 Aug US PGA CHAMPIONSHIP YE Yang Hazeltine National GC, Chaska, MN, USA 23 Aug The KLM Open Simon Dyson Kennemer G&CC, Zandvoort, Netherlands 30 Aug Johnnie Walker Championships Peter HEDBLOM The Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire, Scotland 06 Sep Omega European Masters Alexander NOREN Crans-sur-Sierre, Crans, Switzerland 13 Sep Mercedes-Benz Championship James Kingston Golf Club Gut Lärchenhof, Cologne, Germany 20 Sep Austrian Open Rafael CABRERA-BELLO Fontana GC,Vienna, Austria 04 Oct Alfred Dunhill Links Championship Simon DYSON Old Course, St Andrews, Carnoustie & Kingsbarns, Fife, Scotland 11 Oct Madrid Masters Ross McGOWAN Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, Madrid, Spain 18 Oct Portugal Masters Lee WESTWOOD Oceânico Victoria Golf Course,Vilamoura, Portugal 25 Oct CASTELLÓ MASTERS Costa Azahar Michael JONZON Club de Campo del Mediterráneo, Castellón, Spain 01 Nov Volvo World Match Play Championship Ross Fisher Finca Cortesin GC, Malaga, Spain 08 Nov HSBC Champions Phil Mickelson Sheshan International GC , Shanghai, China 15 Nov UBS Hong Kong Open Grégory BOURDY Hong Kong GC, Fanling, Hong Kong 22 Nov DUBAI WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Lee WESTWOOD Earth Course, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
2010 EUROPEAN TOUR EVENT CALENDAR 10 Dec 17 Dec 07 Jan 14 Jan 21 Jan 28 Jan 04 Feb 18 Feb 04 Mar 11 Mar 18 Mar 25 Mar 01 Apr 08 Apr 08 Apr
13 Dec Alfred Dunhill Championship Leopard Creek GC, Mpumalanga, South Africa 20 Dec South African Open Championship Pearl Valley Golf Estates, Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa 10 Jan Africa Open East London GC, East London, South Africa 17 Jan Joburg Open Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club, Johannesburg, SA 24 Jan Abu Dhabi Golf Championship Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 31 Jan Commercial Bank Qatar Masters presented by Dolphin Energy Doha GC, Doha, Qatar 07 Feb Omega Dubai Desert Classic Emirates GC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates 21 Feb WGC - Accenture Match Play Championship Ritz-Carlton GC, Dove Mountain, Marana, USA 07 Mar Maybank Malaysian Open Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 14 Mar WGC - CA Championship Doral Golf Resort & Spa, Doral, Florida, USA 21 Mar Hassan II Golf Trophy Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, Rabat, Morocco 28 Mar Open de Andalucia Parador Malaga del Golf, Malaga, Spain 04 Apr Estoril Open de Portugal TBC, TBC 11 Apr MASTERS TOURNAMENT Augusta National, Georgia, USA 11 Apr Madeira Islands Open BPI Porto Santo Golfe, Portugal
For further information visit: www.europeantour.com 75
Swing Analysis by PGA Professional Sean Harrison Photo Sequence Mark Newcombe www.visionsingolf.com
Listed below ar e the top ten pl ayers for driving distanc e on the Europe an Tour.
The swing moves that create
315-yard drives!
Alvaro QUIROS John DALY
Anton HAIG Pelle EDBERG Rory MCILROY
James KAMTE
Johan EDFOR
The 6’3”, 26-year-old Spaniard has become the longest hitting Tour professional in the world, with an average driving distance of 315-yards on the European Tour. Earlier in the year, Tiger Woods jokingly called Alvaro Quiros “stupid long” at the PGA Championship. For power and accuracy, this is a good swing to look through. 76
315.1 307.9 304.1 303.3 302.7 301.7
S 301.6 Daniel VANCSI K 300.8 Bernd WIESBE RGER 300. 7 Lee WESTWOO D 300.3
Distances taken from www.europeantour.com/stats Genworth Financial Statistics.
2
1
Folding the right arm too early also results in loss/width of the swing arc
Note the (white line) running down from the front point of his shoulders is well in front of his knees. With his shoulders over his toe line and his legs slightly flexed.
This is a good posture to learn from. This will now allow him to rotate well - wind up - and stay balanced in his first moves.
3
In the move-away from the ball, he only folds his right elbow slightly (see line) helping to set the clubhead and shaft correctly along the target line - keeping the clubhead outside the hands.
At half way back the shaft is now vertical.
4
Looking straight on the right elbow would still be seen above the left forearm maintaining width.
Notice the flex in his legs here against the image above very little movement. This keeps his base strong so he can wind his upper body up against his lower half.
The hips have only turned a small amount compared with the shoulder turn. This is as a result of maintaining the flex in the right knee, - so he is now able to wind his upper body up against his base (lower body) creating torque for the top of the swing. 77
5
6
Alvaro now folds his right elbow into an’ L’ shape and his left arm is comfortably straight - placing and supporting the clubshaft.
This move also allows him to cock/hinge his wrists to the max - adding an extra power lever for his downswing.
9
The club is being held in a lag position to create the power throughout the swing
Transition. He starts to unwind his hips - dropping his arms to pull the club straight down. He is creating these moves without losing his posture angles set at address.
10
Also creating power - His left leg has begun to straighten (the snap effect) His hips are open to the target line but his shoulders are square.
His left arm is already at the ball (impact position) while the clubhead is still a few inches from impact. This means the club is lagging as it approaches the ball.
The average golfer has both arms buckled at this point reducing their swing arc - resulting in loss of power and a correct swing path
Notice the angle set in the right leg of both players (lines). Maintaining the flex in the right knee enables the player to wind up against the right side, creating resistance in the swing. It also serves as a brace and prevents any sway or excess head movement.
Here you can see how his arms are extended through impact, thus maintaining the maximum width of the swing arc through the shot.
7
8
The club shaft is running through the right forearm - a perfect position to deliver the clubhead to the ball.
Note the lag between the clubhead and left arm.
Also take note at the power in his legs. When the legs drive, they turn and unwind the body pulling the arms back to impact.
11
The belt buckle is already aiming at the target
At this stage of the swing, you can see his arms are still extended thus maximizing the width of his swing arc.
The club and arms are unwinding at high speed - but in control.
12
The belt buckle and chest aiming well left of target - a full finish
Rotation at high speed past impact results in the club ending up on his back with the right shoulder pointing down the fairway, a sign of great continuity and acceleration.
40 swingimage
swingimage 41
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