March - April
Issue 6 2016
2016 CHAMPION
Lexi Thompson
NICK FALDO’S
Top Ten Courses
Course Reports
Plutaluang Navy & Phoenix Gold Golf
Exclusive Interview
Darren Clark
Overseas Destination
Singapore
3
From the
Issue 6 Mar - Apr 2016
Publishers desk Pattaya Thailand was once again in the worlds golfing eye in February with the 10th Honda LPGA Thailand , following on from the Thailand Golf Championship at the end of 2015. Lexy Thompson became ‘World No. 3” and the top ladies professional from the USA, following her win at Siam Country Club’s Old Course. Lexy the 6.0 foot tall 21 year old beauty from Florida led the field all the way and puts her success down to a new driver and her accurate putting. She dominated the LPGA Honda Thailand, which was hosted in Pattaya for its 10th anniversary and this year attendances broke all previous records. The ‘Pattaya Golfer’ magazines Managing Editor, Mike Bridge was in attendance as usual and this year sat in with Fox Sports to help popular host and presenter Colette Wong with his update on Pattaya and why it has become such a popular golfing destination. The beautiful Siam Country Club Old Course was the setting and the tournament organization was first class as usual, making this fantastic event a must see for Thailand’s golfing fans. I enjoyed being there on the first day with my wife and although the event is not at all wheelchair friendly, the staff were quick to help by providing carts for the long walk back and forth to the car park.
By Charlie Warner
Publisher Editor in Chief Laddawan Kaewhan. CEO Charlie Warner. General Manager Pimonwan “Pao” Kamjan. T. 082 478 4666 pimonwan@exactthailand.com Managing Editor Mike Bridge, T.083 198 6700 mike@exactthailand.com Production Supervisor Kanyapat “Aof” Kohmanee. aof@silvermover.com Graphic Design Silvermover Co.,Ltd
Our new address Exact Trading Co., Ltd. 46/131 Moo 4, Soi Chaiyapruek 2, Huay-Yai, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Thailand T. 083 113 8712 www.thepattayagolfer.com exactthailand.com
Supported by
4
The Pattaya Golfer is distributed via the member clubs of the EGA. You can also purchase in most good news stands and book shops. If you would like to take out a subscription and have the magazine mailed to your door see page 96 for details
5
CONTENTS
Cover Story
Lexi 2016 Champion
Plutaluang Navy Golf Course & Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club
Course Reports
Golf at its Best... Th e Honda LPGA Thailand
See Page 12 - 13
See Page 19 - 22, 38 - 41
See Page 28 - 31
Commissioner to the stars
See Page 32 - 34
8 12 14 18 6
News 2016 Champion : Lexi Top 10 Golf Course Course Report : Plutaluang Navy Golf Course
22 22 28 33 35 38 42 46 54 57 60 64 67 68
Away Days With Your Mates : Lotus Valley & Royal Hills. Away Days With Your Mates : England Vs Rest of the World Golf at its Best... The Honda LPGA Thailand Commissioner to the Stars Caddie : Good Shot! Course Report : Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club Star Player Interview : Darren Clarke Singapore The Dragon City Behind The Scenes Surecell a golfers best friend Exclusive Interview : Rujirapun Juangroongruankit Finance Where to dine in Pattaya Pattaya’s very own Italian Riviera
Singapore The Dragon City
See Page 46 - 50
7
News New Courses Planned
When many courses around the world are being cancelled or are closing due to lack of customers, here in Pattaya we seem to be bucking that trend. We understand on the golfing grapevine that the old Siracha International Golf Club will be reopening their 18 holes again. Originally the only Gary Player designed course in the region, it is a relatively short but beautiful hilly layout.
bring the total number of golf courses in the Pattaya region to twenty eight. That’s more than Bali and Cambodia combined and more than the courses in the Western region of Portugal’s famous Algarve.
We also hear that the Greenwood Golf Club are planning to create a further nine holes to their existing 27 holes which will offer Courses A & B or their course C along with this more up market track to be known as Course D. And as we already reported before, work has started on a new 18 holes down at Silverlake, which when completed will
Siracha International Golf Course.
NewNordicGolf
NEW NORDIC GOLF GUIDE PART OF NEW NORDIC GROUP
Want to learn how to
PLAY GOLF?
New Nordic’s golf guide Frank specializes in golf in Pattaya and the surrounding areas. He can offer you guiding at the golf course, hire of equipment, sale of golf-away consumables, teepurchase order and transfer to and from the golf course. Join us for an exciting day in one of Asia’s best golf cities!
WE TAILOR MAKE THE GOLF TOUR TO YOUR NEEDS! The Beginner’s Guide Package The Golfer’s Dream Package The hidden gem of Pattaya Package
For inquiries call: +66 (0)89 785 6831 Emails: golf@new-nordic.com
8
Address: Soi 4 Pratmanak Hill, Pattaya, Thailand
New Nordic Group Jomtien | Pattaya | Thailand www.newnordicgroup.com
9
News
ProHackers Returned to Pattaya Solar Golf the Pattaya based golf travel agents hosted the 22nd ProHackers Golf Tour in Pattaya last month. Nearly 100 golfers representing leading names in the aviation industry including Boeing, Rolls Royce, Cathay Pacific and General Electric flew in from as far away as Seattle to play top local courses Laem Chabang, Burapha and Siam Waterside. The highlight of the trip was the feature event, a fancy dress scramble with the theme Gay Pride that was played at Burapha on the Saturday. The focus was on fun with plenty of shots, beer and food laid on at the course. The winning team came as The Village People...a great bunch of guys!
10
Prohackers 2016.
News
Diary Date for Expo Worth making a note to visit the 2016 Thai Golf Expo taking place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre on May 12-15th in Bangkok. Great opportunity to test out some of the latest golfing equipment at the indoor driving range and then select your clubs, balls and accessories at the expo’s gigantic sale. Many of the leading golf clubs take space to promote their courses and more importantly to sell off green fee vouchers at big discounts. This event takes place alongside a Dive and Travel show so you can also get some good stay and play deals. Show is open from 11.00-20.00hrs daily. For more info check out www.thaiandgolfexpo.com
11
2016 CHAMPION Lexi Thompson claimed her seventh LPGA title in impressive fashion at the 2016 Honda LPGA Thailand and shot a final-round 4-under 68 for a six-shot victory over reigning U.S. Women’s Open champion In Gee Chun. With the win, Thompson moves to No. 3 in the Rolex Women’s World Golf R ankings and surpasses Stacy Lewis as the top-ranked American.
H
12
aving been around from the early practice days up to the final of this the 10th anniversary of what is Pattaya’s No. 1 Global event, I was lucky enough to speak to Lexi on a few occasions and at her press conferences.
valuable driver as he was driving a golf cart from Pattaya to Phuket for charity.
Arriving on her practice day she came to say hello to me and asked how the auction went. Last year she kindly gave Graham Haslam a friend of mine her
It is strange to call her a veteran but she told us she actually started playing golf at the age of five and after being invited as a 12 year old to play in the
Most of the time Lexi has her earphones on listening to music, on the driving range, putting greens even on the bus to and from the airport.
US Open decided then she want to make it her aim to play on the LPGA tour. She turned professional in 2010 and won the 2011 Navistar LPGA Classic as a non-member. Well move forward and Lexi has been travelling the world for several years now and with the $240,000 first-place cheque her, Lexi has earned $4,814,510 in career money and is currently 56th on the career money list.
Not bad for a 21 year old who told She has now overtaken Stacey Lewis as us that one of her sponsors Red Bull the top American golfer and it means threw her a birthday bash down in the world to her, especially as she is out there representing not only herself Florida in January. but representing her country being an Her two brothers play golf too, and American, and this is a huge year for they still have some very intense Lexi with the Olympics coming up. matches when she is home now playing for money, but before it was At her final press conference she told us for household shores. Lexi has great that only a week ago that her equipment family support and when she is not sponsor had given her a new Cobra King travelling loves to stay home and enjoy LTD driver and as she said ‘I was able to bomb the ball down using the driver on home cooking. all but 2 holes on the Old Course’. She She is now starting to earn some joked when I asked if the driver was up serious money so when asked if she for auction, and she smiled and told us she had been on any spending sprees she planned to hold onto it for the time being. explained that she has just bought her own house in Coral Springs Florida Lexi Thompson loves The Old Course, and was looking forward to moving in her Thai fans and Pattaya, and is looking shortly. By the way she also likes her forward to returning back here in 2017 cars and owns a Lexus and a Corvette to defend her title. She is also a really nice person to meet! Stingray.
13
Sir Nick Faldo’s
Top 10 Golf Courses
St Andrews.
We asked Sir Nick Faldo MBE for his top ten golf courses, and within seconds he told us his top three, all where he won his Majors.....but then he also added you have to go with memorability as well. Here are Sir Nick’s comments. 1. St Andrews - Old Course ‘It was laid down by nature and is perhaps one of the most strategic courses we play. I love the way you go left of hells bunker up the fairways to play the other holes. That is very cool. When you play St Andrews and shoot 66’s it is easy, but when it’s tough breaking 76 is good even for pros. My birdie on the 17th Road Hole in last year’s Open was fantastic. It was 6pm , sunny and the stands were packed...what a way to say goodbye to Major golf ’ The oldest and most iconic golf course in the world. The Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker are recognized across the globe, yet the greatest feature of the Old Course is that despite its grand status as home of the R&A, it remains a public golf course, open to all.
14
2. Muirfield ‘Muirfield is actually a great golf course and I obviously won two Opens there which is quite unique. Two in a row 19876 and 1992 and is specially winning on the 18th green there.’ Golf was first played at Muirfield in 1891 on 16 holes laid out by Old Tom Morris which was extended to 18 holes for the Open the following year. Restricted by stone walls that completely surrounded the course, the original layout occupied 117 acres. In 1923, a further 50 acres were secured to the north of the course. Renowned course designer Harry Colt was consulted and his recommendations effectively produced the layout as it is today. Apart from Tom Simpson’s re-modeling of the 13th hole in 1935, the only notable changes since then have been the provision of new tees to combat improvements in equipment.
Muirfield Golf Course.
Golden Bell the 12th hole at Augusta National. 3. Augusta National ‘Augusta is unbelievable and it just gets better every time. It’s like we are redefining the word ‘perfection’. It’s not just the course and the grass, the whole tournament is totally designed for players, because nobody is allowed inside the ropes apart from you and the caddie. They also only allow six TV cameras in special positions so for players it is the ultimate.’ Augusta National Golf Club, located in Augusta, Georgia, is one of the most famous golf clubs in the world. Founded by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts on the site of the former Fruitland (later Fruitlands) Nursery, the course was designed by Jones and Alister MacKenzie and opened for play in January 1933. Since 1934, it has played host to the annual Masters Tournament, one of the four major championships in professional golf, and the only major played each year at the same course. It was the number one ranked course in Golf Digest’s 2009 list of America’s 100 greatest courses and is currently the number ten ranked course on Golfweek Magazine ‘s 2011 list of best classic courses in the United States, in terms of course architecture. 4. The Riviera Country Club, Los Angeles California. ‘I love Riviera in Los Angeles California. George Thomas was a great inspirational designer with great bunkering.’ Riviera’s famed George Thomas designed golf course has hosted one US Open, two PGA Championships, and a US Senior Open in addition to serving
as the perennial site of the PGA Tour’s Northern Trust Open. Legends like Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Tom Watson, Nick Faldo and Fred Couples have all tasted victories here, while celebrities like Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford, Charlie Chaplin and Dean Martin have long graced its fairways. 5. Kingston Heath ‘A great test. The sand belt is fabulous in Australia’ Kingston Heath Golf Club is one of Australia’s best golf courses. Ranked as the number one course in Asia and the 20th best course in the world, Kingston Heath enjoys an enviable reputation for its superb conditioning all year round. The 18 holes were built on only 50 hectares (most courses in the modern era are built on over 100 hectares), it is perfectly manicured and its bunkering and clever use of dips and hollows visually fools the non observant golfer. If you wildly deviate from the fairway, the rough (comprising long grass, titree and sandy scrapes) will test your ability to get the ball back into play. 6. Royal Melbourne ‘ Another great classic Ausi course with a lot of history on the sand belt.’ Prior to 1891 there had been attempts to form golf clubs in Melbourne and the other locations in Australia. None of these continued hence Royal Melbourne Golf Club is the oldest golf club in Australia without interruption. A group of men, many of them with Scottish roots, gathered together and after a series of informal meetings, a circular was sent
The Riviera Country Club.
Kingston-Heath. out inviting those who were interested to attend a meeting, on Friday 22 May 1891, at Scott’s Hotel, Collins Street. It had been ascertained that 100 members, each prepared to subscribe fifteen guineas, would be necessary if the club was to be financially viable. The 100 men who subscribed were granted Life Membership and are known as the Founders of the Melbourne Golf Club.
15
Roco Ki.
7. Sporting Club Berlin. Bad Saarow Course. ‘I went in there 25 years ago, but we are now bidding for the 2022 Ryder Cup and so if we get that, we will do a redesign and build eleven new holes. I have a vision which creates a strategic course the players will enjoy and which will create some storied drama in a match play format. I believe we will create an environment for history and for the fans. We will create open spaces for spectators and atmosphere. As a TV analyst, I can see the pictures we will show the world. The Ryder Cup means a lot to me and the contributions of the German players has been significant. Of all my current projects, that’s what I am most excited about.’ The Faldo Course Berlin is a links course with 133 pot bunkers, undulating fairways and challenging greens. 8. Roco Ki in the Dominican Republic. ‘We did a good job here, and it was very well received. Same as Laguna , we went through the headlands, then the jungle then the sand dunes and the sawgrass.’
Bad Saarow Berlin .
Roco Ki Golf Club’s Faldo Legacy Course on the island of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean provides an unforgettable experience not only for the game, but also as a way to explore the land. The golf course’s first tee presents a panorama of the course, the headlands, the ocean and the mountains beyond.
16
Roco Ki Golf Resort.
9. Wentworth West Course UK ‘It has been changed so much back from its days, but I had a love affair with the West and it was my first great golf course when I was an amateur in 1974. That was the holy grail to play there.’ The West course was originally designed by Harry Colt and opened in 1926. Ernie Els was then brought in to upgrade the par 72 7,308 yard course in 2005 and 2007. It is currently the home of the European Tour and hosts the BMW PGA Championships there every year.
10. Laguna Lang Co. Vietnam ‘ I sneak this one in as it is quite unique. You have all these environments out there. Like we go through the rice field to the jungle, then you go along the beach, then you come down the river and then you’re in the rocks and then you finish all down on our sand.’ Part of the Golf Coast group of courses close to Danang in Vietnam, this Faldo designed 18 holes meanders through some breath taking scenery with the sea running all some of the holes. It is a great course for all levels in a very peaceful
West Course Wentwort Golf Club. area of the country about 50 minutes drive from the airport.
Footnote: When we were asking Sir Nick Faldo about his top Then the next day it all cut open in the morning, but my son who
ten courses he then went on to tell us about his last round in a Major, the 2015 Open at his favorite course The Old Course at St Andrews.
‘We had a great week. But it all went ridiculously wrong and in fact most people don’t know what actually happened. I picked up my shirt on the Tuesday in the house I had rented in Bonny Scotland, throw the shirt over my shoulder and on the wall behind me were Deer Antlers, and I impaled my finger and I had the most amazing cut. I could see how bad it was and I couldn’t even hold a club let alone swing it. So I went off to hospital and had it glued and tapped and then tried to play on Wednesday in that Champions Challenge. I had to go as my old caddie Fannie was there and my daughter Emma was going to caddie and carry the bag over the bridge.
was on my bag said ‘Dad I don’t care what you shoot let’s just go for a walk’, and that was a great attitude.
I had actually thought originally I could shoot four rounds of 71’s and be there on the Sunday and what a great week it would have been. Well on that Friday I luckily actually shot 71 and on the 17th (The road hole) I made three and that was just unbelievable. The whole Pringle sweater thing was my idea. I knew it fit and I just wanted to stand there on the bridge at the 18th in the same sweater when I won my first Open. That was definitely one of my best top ten days I’ve ever had in golf. Yes that was my last major.
Everything was designed behind the famous Swilcan bridge that week.
I didn’t at the time realise it was my 100th Major, and I went through the 17th at 6’oclock and the stands were packed, the sun was out and I’m happy....everybody was happy and it couldn’t of ended any better. I lucked out that day.
Then on Thursday we went off for the actual Championship and it completely scared me as I did not know how to hit it....and I got nervous and ended up shooting 83.
The kids were there, my friends were there ...what a way to say goodbye to major golf. It was fantastic for me.’
17
Course report Plutaluang Navy Golf Course
18
Only 35 minutes’ drive along highway No.3 from Pattaya, the Plutaluang Royal Thai Navy Golf Course offers one of the best value rounds of golf in the region.
19
P
lutaluang has 36 holes, the first nine were built and opened back in 1969 by the 7th Queen and the last nine were completed in 1996. The four 9-holes are named after their directions, South (3,530 yds), North (3,551), East (3,352 yds), and West (3,500 yds). Their signature hole is the much photographed Par 3 Island green with lighthouse on the North. It was designed by the Royal Thai Navy themselves to enable their staff at the huge Navy base nearby to enjoy a round of golf in a natural setting. Therefore weekdays can be just as popular for their staff as the weekends.
20
The course takes full advantage of the natural beauty of the landscape, set in a wooded valley with mature trees of all types, and is built around a huge natural reservoir, in the region of Sattahip. There are a wide range of hazards and obstacles here to keep you on your toes, and you are likely to play several rounds before actually memorizing all the holes. By the way the grass can be quite thick when your ball is in the rough. Unlike modern Thai golf courses, it is an old school natural golf course offering some of the best Asian golf available anywhere. The Zoysia fairways and greens help conserve water, which is more typical of courses in Phuket and Malaysia.
When we played there, we started on the West course which has a great raised tee on the 2nd hole, a par 5 down to a valley with trees and water. The greens were in excellent condition although beware of their speed.The two most notable holes are the third hole on the North Course and ninth hole on the South Course. The former is a par three with its own lighthouse and island green. The latter is situated at the highest point on the course and this par four requires a long, accurate downhill drive with a good second shot over water to a small green.
The refurbished clubhouse is well laid-out with well-maintained lockers & showers, a pro-shop and the restaurant has excellent views across the golf course and surrounding hills. Drinks and Thai food are very reasonably priced as the course is essentially a public Navy facility. Perhaps not up there with the Championship courses such as Siam Old Course or Lam Chabang, however with the friendly attitude of the staff, the natural layout and low costs, a visit to Plutaluang makes for a very enjoyable day of golf in Pattaya.
Editors note: A bit tricky to f ind on your f irst visit. However it is only 30 minutes south east of central Pattaya. Simplest route is to take the Sukhumvit Road (route No.3) towards Sattahip. Once you have crossed Sattahip itself, a few kilometres on you will f ind a road on your left signposted Plutaluang Navy Golf Course. Drive up this country road for another 3-4 kms and you will reach their clubhouse.
21
Away days with your mates Lotus Valley & Royal Hills.. By Anton Coetzee a grouP of us from the outback bar recently headed off for four days away from Pattaya, visiting lotus valley and royal hills golf clubs.
A
fter an early start we arrived at Lotus Valley and tee’d off just after 11.30. These 18 holes were originally designed by golfing legend Gary Player and the club is located in the North East of Bangkok. When we played the course was in fabulous condition, and the staff were all great and the caddy’s (in general) a fair bit friendlier and attentive than at the average Pattaya outing. Personally, I had a beautiful, young, friendly and attentive caddy, and she was excellent on reads as well - a rare combination to find at any golf course! I’d definitely keep her number for a next trip to Lotus Valley! After a great round of golf, we drove a Google Maps inspired route to Royal Hills Golf Resort in Nakhon Nayok,
22
Royal Hills.
which took just under an hour. Seems that Google Maps was smart enough to avoid the pot hole filled route which one would normally take, and even with nine people in the bus listening to Sugar Ray’s music compilation, the ride felt pretty smooth and quick. Editors note: The original Gary Player layout at Lotus Valley was redesigned by Jon Morrow (of Red Mountain fame) and Turf Pro Golf ’s Craig Bertram about four years ago, keeping the original routing, and enhanced by Bertram’s reshaping of the green complexes. Lotus Valley re-opened to rave reviews and has gained in popularity for those expecting top quality conditions. Rolling fairways, and strategic bunkering around the greens provides for many exciting hole locations. Friendly approach areas at the front of each green will accept a lower
ball flight, making it fair for everyone. Clubhouse restaurant is superb and they even have a Japanese hot bath in the men’s lock room. Editors note: Royal Hills Golf Resort is an 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course designed by Nelson and Wright of Belt Collins and Associates, world-famous golf course architects. The 7,034-yard course offers a challenge to golf professionals and novices alike, who can enjoy their game on wide green fairways situated in a scenic mountain valley. The designers have taken the pain out of the game by creating a golf course that is simply enjoyable to play on. Peacefully merging with its natural surroundings, Royal Hills fosters an atmosphere of relaxation and recreation, surrounded by waterfalls, mature trees, fun elevations and incredible wildlife.
Lotus Valley’s 18th. The next three nights we stayed at Royal Hills’s own 90 room 3 star hotel which overlooks their 18th fairway. Next morning, we tee’d off at 9.30am from the white tee’s, where the lads were following a couple of bright young Korean scratch golfers playing from the Black tee’s. Third day, and someone (i.e. me) had the stupid idea to play from the blues, “just to mix things up a bit”. It seemed rational at the time, since a good 1/3 of tee’s were white and blue together anyway, and I thought it would help the higher handicappers a bit since they got 3 extra shots on the slope and index, compared to the 1 shot that a low handicapper like myself got. It turned out to be a hard day, with both myself and Kim falling completely out the bus, with only 22 points each. Another evening with good food, a couple of wine bottles with the Broom boys, and more ice cream for the two Steve’s followed that evening. On to the fourth day and an early breakfast and check out before we set off just before 8am back to Lotus Valley. Again playing off the blues, Lotus Valley seems like a great course to play a bit longer, since there aren’t any carries that a short hitter can’t
Hotbath at Lotus Valley. reach. The only challenge off the blues is off course the 215yrd par 3, 17th hole, which was long and raised a few eyebrows. In the overall standings, I won by a shot with 103 pts, beating Kim on 102 and George Scott with 94. Fourth was Frenchie with 92 pts.It was a great little tour with an exciting finish (at least for me), and it sets a good platform for future tours
Dairy Date: Worth noting that there will be a Pattaya Sports Club monthly tournament covering Tuesday and Wednesday May 10th and 11th , playing at Lotus Valley and Royal Hills and staying overnight at Royal Hills. Trip will be all inclusive of meals transport accommodation and some drinks. www.outbackgolfbar.com
23
Playing with your mates..... England Vs Rest of the World by Steve Ellison
For the hosting of their 14th annual Mulberry Ryder Cup, the intrepid Golf Club from LK Metro Pattaya, decided to venture West to Kanchanaburi for this fun event that pits an all-English side against the Rest of the World.
24
P
reviously they had traveled to various regions around Thailand including Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Bangkok. This year they picked Kanchanaburi and it was a truly international event with players from Canada, U.S.A., Japan, Australia, India and Scotland participating. Steve Mulberry started this eagerly anticipated match play tournament for a few of his Blackpool mates and it has now grown to be hosted by The Golf Club. Players even plan their holidays around the dates of this event that is growing every year. It is not trying to be the biggest tournament in Pattaya, just the one that is the most fun!
The four day competition had a total 54 points on offer. Monday was a fourball better ball event that saw the R.O.W. side get off to a strong 8 to 3 start. The magnificent Grand Prix was host to the 42 golfers and what a fantastic golf course this is. We had a dozen Siam members on this trip and even they were impressed with the facilities and course condition here. Grand Prix must rank in the top 5 golf courses in Thailand and should be on your bucket list of Thailand courses to play.
14th Signature Hole at Grand Prix Tuesday we headed over to Nichigo Golf Club for the greensomes – alternate shot – competition. This was another victory for the Rest of the World and their 6 ½ to 4 ½ spanking was only rubbing salt into the English wounds from Monday.
Nichigo was looking tired and unloved, but it has been years since we last played here. It is a shame to find this lovely parkland layout in such need of some TLC. Back to the pristine Grand Prix again and the fourball comp was a bit closer
25
with a 6 to 5 result that brought the total count to 20 ½ to 12 ½ for the R.O.W. and things were not looking good for England. Thursday was singles for the Mulberry boys, and the teams were playing for a total of 21 points today. J.J. Wright was looking after the scoring and what a great help he was to the event. We had fresh pin positions, perfect weather and the glorious Grand Prix to contend with again. None of this was any help to the English side as once again it was a loss to the Rest of the World with a 12 to 9 body count. The final numbers read R.O.W. 32 ½ to England’s 21 ½ for a great victory for the R.O.W. that was captained by Jeff Hanack with Mike Newbert as his Vice. They may have won the Cup but England ruled the Wine & Cheese party! After 14 years of play, it scores R.O.W with 7 wins, England with 6, and 1 year that was halved. www.golfclubpattaya.com
26
Editors Notes: The actual journey from Pattaya to Kanchanaburi is around four hours and it takes around 45 minutes to drive up to Grand Prix Golf Club from the city. On this trip the players stayed at two hotels the Riverpool Resort and The Bridge Residence. According to the Golf Club, they are just 100 yards from each other in the centre of town and are new and clean with very helpful staff. Grand Prix Golf Club is a members private club, however they do accept walk ins, however you will need to book in advance. Currently they are charging THB2,500 for weekdays and THB2,800 for weekends including green fee, caddie + cart. It is a first class 18 hole golf course with up to 50 metre elivations, a number of cleverly positioned bunkers, water hazards and undulating greens. Certainly in the top ten of courses in Thailand and definitely worth venturing to this part of Thailand near the famous River Kwai.It offers excellent value, and if you wish to stay overnight they have a modern 50 room hotel with pool too.
6th at Grand Prix
Their website is www.grandprixgolfclub.com or tel; 098 887 0003 or they have a call centre +66 87 160 0140.
27
Golf at its Best...
The Honda LPGA
Thailand
The 10th running of the Honda LPGA Thailand saw forty nine of the World’s top 50 female golfers descend on Siam Country Club’s Old Course competing for a record US$1.6million.
28
I
t all seems to run like clockwork but having had the opportunity to see what really happens, the LPGA, the organisers and of course the golf club itself all worked long and hard to make what has become Pattaya’s number one global sporting event The Honda LPGA Thailand. IMG staff in fact actually set up camp a month before the tournament started, to build and create this special event. By the time the players started flying in from all over the world, everything was in place from the immaculate greens on course to the welcoming team at the Dusit Thani Pattaya. After practice day one, makeup artists arrived to turn half a dozen LPGA stars into Thai princesses for an afternoon photo call. Difficult to tell who’s in the picture, but check out Amy Yang last year’s winner, Charley Hull from the UK and our own Pornanong Phatlum.
Day one is when the players will talk to the media, and will do numerous TV interviews with commentators asking for sound bites promoting Golf Channel Thailand, Fox Sports or the Honda LPGA Thailand. Some even try out their Thai too! Yani Tseng, Beatrix Recari and Ariya Jutanugarn all went to open a local kids play ground, and as we know Ariya is a bit of a big kid herself, she happily went on the rides. Wednesday was the pro am day when the top stars get to play with the sponsors....Oh yes they know who is paying their bills and are happy to give advice and have numerous pictures taken. That night the players also get to try on their best dresses at the Gala Dinner and Auction at the Dusit Thani’s ballroom to raise more funds for local charities. So then attention moves to the four day tournament and the caddies start to groom their players with trips to the driving range, chipping areas and the putting green. Although Wednesday afternoon saw the Pro Am finish with a massive downpour , on all four days of the
Michelle Wei Putting. tournament, the rain stayed away and according to most players the greens were hard and very fast. Even though Pornaong Phatlum had a double bogie on the dreaded 18th in round two, like a real trooper that she is, afterwards she still turned up all smiles to talk to her loving Thai press pack in the big media centre and even took part in a massive selfie with over twenty Thai hacks. Players kept mentioning the large crowds on all the fairways and around
the greens, and the event took on a special atmosphere similar to a major with fans even turning up dressed in their favorite players shirts, skirts and caps. The 18th hole threw up more dramas than a Thai soap opera with many seeing their ball almost reaching the hole before rolling on 50 feet down into a hollow. Ariya Jutanugarn’s shot on round three through the tress and over a large scoreboard to land 10 feet from the pin was exceptional.
29
30
Lexi Thompson.
The sponsors Honda were delighted to hand over the keys to young Chinese player Xi Yu Lin who had Happy Birthday sung on the tee day one and on day two shot a hole in one on the 16th to win a Honda Galaxy worth THB1.7million . However 21 year old veteran on the LPGA tour Lexi Thompson was awesome on all four days, eventually shooting -20 to become the first American to take the title at Thailand’s most prestigious female golf tournament, and she moved to 3rd on the Rolex rankings as well. But perhaps the biggest smile came from the staff at IMG and the Siam Country Club, who showed the global TV audience why Pattaya is such a great place to play golf!!!
Lexi with all the Thai Players.
31
32
Commissioner
to the Stars
For the past few years I have been lucky enough to meet one of the most influential men in the world of golf, Mike Whan the friendly American LPGA Commissioner.
by Mike Bridge
I
caught up with LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan during the final day at the 2016 Honda LPGA Thailand where they were celebrating the 10th anniversary of this major Asian tournament. Pattaya Golfer: Attendance was up this year. You must be very pleased. Mike Whan: Yes I believe it was up by 15%. It tends to compare to a normal week in Asia where it’s a onetime event, as we come to Thailand once a year. Over in the States I think people have got used to the fact that we will come through and if they can’t catch us in Grand Rapids to can catch us in Toledo. After ten years in Pattaya things have changed. For example when we started there were no Thais playing. Now not only do we have several playing today, but they are now going to vie for a medal at the Olympics too. Also most spectators would sit around the 18th hole, now fans come out here and they have players names on their shirts and they are walking the course and there are very knowledgeable golfers out there. I think initially they found
the tournament a novelty, but now we have some real diehard fans. Some of the fans actually dress up like their favorite players and I think that is fun!
see how we set up a golf tournament and even go into the TV booth and to understand the production side and why it is so important and what our fans see. We know they know how to play golf, so these Pods are to help rookies understand the full business picture of how the LPGA works. This all happens while we are travelling around on tournaments.
Over the years I think many of those young girls who were shouting out for a ball of a cap, may have become professional golfers in their own right. Thailand is one of the hottest country’s right now with some many good golfers and I kind of feel like Mike actually believes that the Thais we at the LPGA had something to do have a great chance of winning a gold medal this year in Rio, and also with that interest. reckons Pornanong Phatlum is due her PG: With nine Thais on the full tour first win soon as well. this year, what help does the tour PG: Apart from the nine Thais who offer these rookies. have their full tour cards, several MW: Well every rookie has to go Thais ended up in the top 30 at Q through rookie orientation and rookie school. Will they also get a chance training classes which generally last to play on the main tour? about the first seven months on the tour. They get put into Pods standing MW: Well they get what is called for Player Development Group and Conditional Status and all the players this will include a couple of veteran have numbers 1-60 so let’s say if your golfers, someone from the LPGA number is 154 and we are playing 132 staff and couple of rookies. They get players that week, you may not get in together with practice rounds, dinner those early events , but by the time we and then have media training plus get to midsummer and other players they ride with a rules official and need are starting to take breaks or maybe to learn all about the rules too. They there are injuries so these players will
33
get maybe 12-15 starts. Someone like Sherman Santiwiwatthanaphong from Thailand who won on the Symetra Tour has a higher number....say 94, so other than Asian limited entry events she could get into most of the events we play. PG: The LPGA is now truly a global Tour. MW: Its great now but if you jump back seven or eight years it was the same, but a lot of our sponsors are global. When we went global there wasn’t really any other sport that was doing that so we could couldn’t ring up and get any advice then. No we get calls from other sports and say how did you get there, and I tell them with a lot of mistakes and we stumbled for
34
a while and then you wake up and your realise you have players from everywhere, sponsors from everywhere and 170 countries watch us on TV. It looks easy now but it wasn’t easy at the start. PG: Your TV coverage is great, but do you think it is possible to cover more of what’s going on apart from the marquee groups? MW: I would love to cover say 15 holes at a time but with prize money and TV being the main costs of running an event, it is often too expensive. We did at one stage even let the players take over with some manning the TV cameras and others doing the commentary which was terrible but it was fun to watch.
Editors note: After his visit to Pattaya Mike flew back to the States and after months of discussions the PGA TOUR and the LPGA jointly announced a long‐term, written strategic alliance agreement designed to further promote the growth of golf. The partnership between the leading men’s and women’s professional golf tours will include areas such as schedule coordination, joint marketing programs, domestic television representation, digital media and exploring the potential development of joint events. With TV contracts coming up for renewal expect to see some exciting new changes to the current dates TV coverage.
27 holes of superb golf near Pattaya, Thailand
134 kms from Suvarnabhumi Intl Airport and 158 kms from downtown Bangkok. 111 Moo9, Sukhaphiban2, Huayyai, Banglamung, Chonburi Tel : +66 (0)38 239 391-5 Fax : +66 (0)38 239 414 Mobile : +66 (0)84 873 5363, +66 (0)92 225 8449 E-Mail : reservation@phoenixgoldgolf.com www.phoenixgoldgolf.com
35
Good Shot!
Yes the secret weapon according to Thongchai Jaidee the successful European Tour star are the wonderful Thai Caddies.
36
H
ard to get an accurate figure, however with over 235 golf courses spread across the country, and an average of 100 caddies per course, that means that there are approximately 23,000 mainly Thai females working. The Tourism Authority of Thailand know that it is one of the reasons so many rate Thailand as a top golf destination because of some outstanding golf clubs and of course their beautiful smiling caddies. Apart from each club giving a comprehensive training course to the locals in the etiquette of the game of golf, they also teach caddies about how to make players rounds of golf better and more enjoyable. A few years ago a group of forwarding thinking GMs at several local Pattaya golf courses, launched a programme to actually encourage caddies to play golf during the quieter low season periods. The scheme took off and from
that they decided to organise a Caddie Championship to enable a few local club caddies to compete. Move forward five years and this year’s Singa Amazing Thailand Caddie Championship will see over 800 caddies from all over Thailand compete in several regional tournaments, with the top 140 joining top caddies from six Asean countries in a grand final event hosted at the Siam Country Club’s Old Course. The girls take this very seriously and with other caddies and families cheering them all on, the attendance is often larger than some of the professional tours. Now supported by international sponsors and attracting overseas TV coverage, the Caddie Championship is proofing very popular. An off shoot of all this has been a definite improvement in the service given by
these caddies who now understand the difficulty of playing. They now can genuinely agree when they shout ‘Good Shot’ to their golf happy vacationer.
Editors note: Caddies are almost compulsory at 90% of all Thai golf clubs. Apart from the green fee, the golf club will also charge you a caddy fee, anything between THB300-400, which normally your caddie will get at least 75%. For this a well trained caddy will drive your golf cart or pull your golf trolley, will give you the distances from tee to green, help you select the correct club and will read the undulations on the greens like a paperback novel. At the end of your round it is customary to tip your hard working caddie, and we normally suggest you give them between THB350-500. Remember they rely on their tips, and so after 18 holes they deserve your generosity. Enjoy your round or four here in the Land of the Smiles!
37
Course Report Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club
38
With a choice of three courses offering a total of 27 holes, the Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club is the closest golf club to central Pattaya.
Caption Lakes Hole 6.
39
A
fter a 6 month rebuild they recently opened their Lakes course, which as the name suggests meanders around a series of lakes. Resdesigned by leading Thai course architect Pirapon Namtra, whose other masterpieces include Banyan and Santiburi Samui, the THB100million has been well spent creating a fun series of nine challenging holes. Namtra said that although there were some lakes before they were never really in play, so now with the re routing more water comes into play, making what he thinks will be the best fun nine holes in the area. The first hole may look similar to the original but Namtra has added a new bunker on the left and the green is smaller. The first par 3 has a tricky undulating green guarded by a wide bunker so aerial shots will by the order of the day here. Again on hole 3 he has added some more bunkers and the green although quite thin in places slopes right to left
40 40
so your final shot into the green needs to be accurate near the pin.
and a cunning rolling green to finish the round.
Now four tees off near an expanded lake towards a wide fairway with a tree in the centre. Again the green is undulating and raised so be careful that your ball does not roll off down the slope at the back.
As Pirapon Namtra explained although the course has been opened since early January, he expects the nine holes to be completly bedded in by July.
Hole number 5 is a clever par 4 with a large landing area followed by an accurate 2nd shot onto a switchback style small green surrunded by bunkers. According to Namtra he thinks No.6 a tricky par 5 across two lakes will be the hole most will talk about. Accuracy even for the short hitters will mean either a wet ball or a poor lie if you do not reach the fairway. Hole 7 is a short par three and then another great challenge especially for the long hitters is the dog leg par 4 8th. Here you could try for the green but it is very much a risk and reward hole. Hole 9 has a wide fairway with up to eight bunkers to grab your attention
The owners have already up graded the bunkering and drainage on the other two nine hole courses and we understand that the Ocean Course will be closed from March to late June as they will be laying new greens. Mountain’s upgrade will follow. When complete, the Tees will be Paspalum, Fairways Zoyzia, and the Greens Champion Turf. Phoenix Gold is a very popular outing often with up to 200-250 players a day during high season. The views of the hills and the gulf are wonderful and the course not only benefits from sea breezes, but by being built on a sand hill, drains exceptionally quickly. A bonus in the rainy season.
Ocean Course.
Mountain Course.
41 41
42
STAR PLAYER INTERVIEW
Darren Clarke Mike Bridge We met up withByglobetrotting Ryder Cup captain and Liverpool FC fan Darren Clarke, who had just flown in from Abu Dhabi for the SMBC Singapore Open at Sentosa.
Darren Clarke at Singapor Open.
43
D
arren’s Euro team including his picks of Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter has just trounced the Asia team in the EuroAsia Cup in Malaysia.
So firstly I asked Darren if he would recommend to the European Tour that all future Ryder Cup captains should also captain the Euro team at this new team event. ‘ I cannot say for sure if all future Ryder Cup captains should go, but for me personally I found it very beneficial. It gave me time to spend with the players especially in the team room and being in this environment naturally can only help come September.’ Darren laid on snooker and table tennis in the Euro team room and many of the players said it was such a great experience taking part. ‘I thought the off course set up worked well and I will certainly arrange similar activities in the future, ‘ said Darren. Were you happy with your team? ‘Yes and both the two older players played fantastic and the younger members were phenomenal as well.’ Recently Darren was one of the stars to go to compete in the 1st Vietnam Open, so I asked for his reaction to playing at Greg Norman’s new course. ‘I thought The Bluffs at Ho Tram was definitely a proper golf course. It was tough when the wind blew as it does quite often and I really enjoyed the facilities there. I expect that tournament to grow in the future too.’ As far as Thailand he told us that apart from his appearances at Amata Springs for the Thailand Golf Championships he also went down to check out Hua Hin and he has played all over Bangkok, but he could not remember if he had played any course in Pattaya.
44
Even during his busy schedule he managed to grab three weeks off at Christmas. ‘I went to the Bahamas with my wife and the kids.’ However always the competitor he told us he still played a lot of golf there. Darren is still a full time professional golfer on the European Tour, so was due
to jet off to play in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic and then after flying to the UK for meetings with the Ryder Cup committee at Wentworth was due back in Asia for the Mabank Championship at Royal Selongar in KL. Darren said he loves to play here in Asia, but after the 2016 Ryder Cup has no immediate plans. We wish him all the best in September.
ST. ANDREWS 2000 / RAYONG GREEN VALLEY / SILKY OAK Contact us :
Tel. 038 030660-2 , 081 940 8181 Fax. 038 030663 Email: golfing@standrews2000golf.com Website: www.standrews2000golf.com 45
Si nga por e t h e
Dr ag on
C i t y
By Mike Bridge
Singapore is well known as a cruising port, for its shopping and more recently for its casino and the first night time Formula 1. However even though it may not rank high as a top golf destination, Singapore actually has some excellent courses spread across the city.
46
Marina Bay Golf Course hole No1.
N
ow with the new Air Asia flights direct from Pattaya, a round of golf in the dragon city is not such a crazy idea. Think about it....you are also likely to score brownie points with your other half when you suggest a golf vacation there, as they will love the shopping and if kids are in tow then Universal Studios beckons as well.
Designed by world-renowned golf course designer Ronald Fream, The Serapong Course was opened in 1982 . A challenging par-72, it is one of the top five championship courses in Asia and home of the prestigious Barclays Singapore Open, now renamed the SMBC Singapore Open with world No 1 Jordan Spieth as this year’s star attraction.
I am not saying Singapore is necessarily my top Asian golf destination, especially as we all know prices for everything are high, but as a unique golfing experience, it is definitely delivers.
The Serapong Course underwent an impressive S$12 million upgrade back in 2007 under the guidance of Andrew Johnston.
Many of the courses are actually members only set ups, however surprisingly enough their most famous 18 holes, the Serapong Course at the Sentosa Golf Club actually accepts walk-in players.
The revamped Serapong Course boasts a new configuration of water hazards and bunker complexes. The course’s yardage was lengthened from 6,493 to 6,675 metres and the greens were re-contoured and are now larger and faster. With its trademark mounds and undulating terrain, two
mammoth lakes with stone-lined walls and breathtaking scenery, Andrew enhanced Ron’s use of the Singapore harbour as a backdrop to accentuate play. For the purists, the three grass types on the course are Tiffeagle on the greens, Paspalum Sea Isle 2000 on the tee boxes and Zoysia on the fairways. The Serapong Course was awarded the “Number 1 Championship Golf course in Asia” by Asian Golf Monthly in 2007 and “Best Golf Course in Singapore” by Golf Digest in 2009, further cementing its position as one of the top courses in the country and the region. World-class golfers including Barclays Singapore Open winners Angel Cabrera and Adam Scott, as well as Phil Mickelson, KJ Choi,
47
World Classic at Laguna National. Els, Vijay Singh, Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke, Jeev Milkha Singh, Ian Poulter and Martin Kaymer have enjoyed the demanding golf and spectacular vistas. Now the HSBC Singapore Champions, part of the LPGA tour also turn up each March, and who can forget that incredible 75 foot putt by Paula Creamer on the 18th hole in 2014.
In fact you may get a glimpses of this monster and its sister course the Masters Course from the window of your plane as you land. Billed as Asia’s Toughest Test according to the globally recognized slope/course rating system administered by the USA Golf Association (at 162 Slope and 76.4 Rating ) the World Classic is in fact one of the most difficult ever rated.
By the way, it is worth noting that most courses here do require all players, irrespective of age, to possess an official USGA index handicaps. At Sentosa you will need to be lower than 36.6 for Men and 40.4 for Ladies. If you are not sure ring the club you plan to play first. The Sentosa Club will reopen their 18 hole Tanjong Course in the next two years, meanwhile the rates for visitors to play Serapong are S$350 weekdays or S$480 at weekends. However best to check out their website first before booking. www.sentosagolf.com At the other end of Singapore near the Changi Airport everyone is talking about the revamped World Classic course at Laguna National.
48
Masters Hole 9.
The World Classic originally opened in 1993 but was completely redesigned by Andy Dye Designs and won the Best New Design 2011 at the Asian Golf Monthly annual awards. Similar the Bangkok’s Royal Gems Golf City, the 7,350 yard 18 holes have been inspired by the great course of the world. This course has also hosted private play and exhibitions
by golfing superstars Ernie Els and Tiger Woods. This course will definitely appeal to the masochists amongst you and I am sure you will enjoy guessing what each hole was actually modeled on. Their signature par 3 number 17 is easily recognizable as the 17th at TPC Sawgrass but with a smaller crazy undulating green.
weekday green fee of S$570 while the Masters Course is a mere snip at S$260. Being a members club the best way to make a booking would be to go through a recognised golf tour operator such as www. golfasian.com. By the way , you may also need to invite your bank manager to play too!!!
For a more realistic rate try out the Marina Bay Golf Course, which If you want any easier ride then most also won the Best Public Golf visitors will play their Masters Course, Course in the Asia Pacific at the home to the Singapore Masters on 2015 Asia Golf Awards. the European tour from 2002-2007. Ranked by Golf Digest International Marina Bay Golf Course designed by amongst the top courses in the World, Phil Jacobs, is located strategically in the Masters 7,109 yards par 72 set up the heart of town, and offers golfers has a wonderful parkland landscape great accessibility and a picturesque with a lake surrounding the 18th view of the city skyline, be it day or hole in front of the Nest clubhouse night. Being the only links-styled golf course in Singapore, the design of the restaurant. par 72 course attempts to connect Ok not only is the World Classic to the history of golf – traditional billed as the hardest course around links of Scotland and the beginning it is also the most expensive with a of golf - with its few water hazards
and in particular, its 91 pot bunkers. These bunkers not only serve as one of our dramatic features, they are also geared to provide hours of challenges and excitement to golfers. Besides being one of the few golf courses in Singapore to offer night golfing from Wednesday to Friday for busy executives, Marina Bay Golf Course also offers golfers an enhanced golfing experience through the use of the Global Positioning System on its full fleet of buggies. The four-tier driving range with 146 bays is the biggest and the longest driving range in Singapore. Their rates start at only S$82.50 for 9 holes on a weekday or S$225 for 18 holes at weekends. They charge an extra S$14-27 for lighting at night. Worth taking your camera for a shot of the course at night with the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel as your back drop.
Marina Bay hole 13.
49
C onc lus ion:
I
f you can afford the green fees, then you probably will not forget your round at the World Classic. Frustrating as hell, but very memorable too. www.lagunanational.com If you are in the centre of the city then Marina Bay Golf Club is also very spectacular and fun too. www.mbgc.com.sg However if you want to experience a truly world famous course, then the Serapong will not disappoint. www.sentosagolf.com Add ons: Universal Studios and the majority of Sentosa Island has become a huge attraction for visitors of all ages. If you like the scary roller coasters then it’s all here and for kids they have Puss in Boots sky train and a boat ride in to world of Madagascar. Worth also checking out the Steven Spielberg film set with a hurricane attacking the docks at NYC.
Where to Stay: As the very efficient MRT gets you around from A to B very quickly it is best to stay in a hotel near one of the stations. Worth buying a Singapore Tourist Pass for use on the trains and buses. Also check out ww.airasiago.com for their excellent flights and hotel packages. You are spoilt for choice! Opening in 2017 will be Thailand’s Dusit Than 5 star hotel right beside the courses at Laguna National. If you are planning to play Sentosa Golf Club then Resorts World owners of Universal Studios have a number of hotels on the island too.
50
Serapong Course at Sentosa.
Serapong Course at Sentosa.
18th Fairway at Serapong Course.
PATTAYA SPORTS CLUB more than sport
pattayasports.org info@pattayasports.org 038 361 167 open daily 9am to 5pm 3/197 pattaya 3rd road
Our members enjoy organized golf most days of the week with super discounts at over 20 courses.
Golf made easy
PattayaSports.org/GolfMadeEasy
51
52
53
Behind the Scenes
with IMG Sports
Kate Burton
Sometimes people behind the scenes know their sport as well as the players. Fitting this bill is Kate Burton, who has been one of the voices you would regognise for the past few years on the LPGA’s TV coverage when the tour hits Asia and Australia.
B one.
urton is a former Hong Kong and England international golfer, who used to play off a handicap of plus
Her work in Asia involves commentary for the LPGA, as well as doing live player interviews for TV. She also works constantly as a popular MC at corporate events and press conferences but 90% of her work is commentating for golf. She actually had the papers ready to join the Ladies European tour, but in those days the players at the top were only making less than GBP20,000, so she stuck at being an Amateur and she had fun travelling the world representing her country. She then decided to take a course in broadcast journalism in London and moved to Hong Kong, where she managed to get a job there hosting her own sports radio show called ‘What’s the Score’ back in 2002. She moved to Singapore with her husband and started working on LPGA events in 2005 with the World Sport Group and Kate now works with the Ausi team at IMG Sports Productions. Apart from the LPGA tournaments, Kate also covers some of the European and Asian tour events, and recently she could be seen working as MC in Malaysia at the EuroAsia Cup won by Darren Clarke’s team. She admires fellow Asian golf commentator Dom Boulet who is often heard on the Asian Tour coverage, as he was a player and explains what is actually going through the mind from a players perspective. Also she admires Ken Brown for his quirkiness, Sam Torrance for the voice and Sir Nick Faldo because he is honest and you respect him from where he has come from too.
54
We asked Kate what she thinks could be done to improve the coverage of golf on TV and she told us that they often have meetings at IMG to come up with new ideas. Kate thinks that caddies should be able to use range finders as it looks cool and we should be moving with the times. Interviews should be much more interactive and she feels they should get rid of those backdrops which really could be in a studio say in Bangkok. Why not use the wonderful Old Course as the background!
We should also interact with the fans more and let’s hear from the players as well. Maybe as they walk onto the 1st tee and at least once during their round. And of course we desperately need to speed up the play too. Karen Stupples who is now working for the Golf Channel in the States was her roommate at college and one day Kate would love to add a bit of Ausi colour to their coverage.
55
Kate Burton.
56
Surecell a golfers best friend Many of us golfers from time to time feel some aches and pains in our knees or elbows after a few hard rounds. Apart from visiting a Chiropractor or maybe if it becomes serious having some expensive surgery, most of us just try to grin and bear it.
W
ell now there is another less stressful alternative right here in Pattaya, with platelet rich plasma (PRP) and adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs), regenerative medicine treatments under the banner Surecell offered at its Pratamnak Clinic.
sports medicine, including his own designed platelet rich plasma (PRP) and adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) regenerative medicine treatments. By now Dr. Lewis and his ever-expanding team of doctors treat well over 1000 patients a month.
Surecell have treated well over 10’000 patients using PRP and Stem Cell therapies since 2010 when it all started in Dr Peter Lewis’ sport medicine clinic in Melbourne, Australia. His success rate in significantly reducing pain for the long haul has exceeded 78% of all cases.
Surecell’s Pattaya clinic has been in operation for a couple of years and has successfully expanded its regenerative medicine services beyond joints, muscles and tendons. Today it also offers facial rejuvenation treatments, hormone and a large variety of vitamin supplement treatments all geared to get our bodies going again, being more energetic and looking good! Surecell’s Pratumnak Clinic functions also as your everyday general praxis, treating wounds, upset stomachs, providing personalized check-ups and even offering a highly successful weight-loss treatment.
We recently caught up with globetrotting Dr Peter Lewis, Surecell’s co-founder and medical director, at their impressive facility on Soi 6 in Pratamnak. Dr Lewis is Australian and a medical practitioner having graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from Melbourne’s Monash University. In 1988, he completed a post-graduate diploma in sports medicine. He is considered an expert in the field of
Why did Surecell open its first Thailand clinic in Pattaya: ‘Simply because of the obvious demand for a new type of clinic in this booming region with its large number of highly active expat retirees.’
Doctor Peter Lewis. Quick biology lesson....PRP is a process where blood is taken from your arm, which is then processed to separate and activate the highly valuable platelets. The resulting platelet-rich-plasma is then injected into the effected area. Adipose derived stem cells are taken from your own tummy fat and added to the PRP – a special treatment required to treat later-stage joint degeneration. “PRP effectively replaces Cortisone injections. Cortisone is a pain killer
57
and thus provides pain relief faster - but it’s just that: a pain killer and it wears off fast. Eventually the pain killer looses its effectiveness and surgery comes in play. PRP’s pain reduction ability takes a little longer as it is an actual healing process. It requires 3 to 4 treatment rounds over a period of 4-6 weeks but your pain is practically gone and with an annual top-up injection you can postpone the need for surgery very significantly. So the next time you hit a golf ball you’re not back to where you started as it has actually healed rather than just masked the pain.’
58
Is it expensive? ‘No, it depends on the severity of the injury so something like a tennis or golfers elbow might get by with one or two injections which we currently offer at our Pratumnak Clinic for just THB 10’000 per injection. Osteoarthritis of the knee or the hip will require four injections. Some insurance companies have started covering this procedure.’ Surecell Group have the world’s largest database. This allows the treating doctor to judge the likelihood of success for almost any type of sports injury or
joint degeneration and design the best treatment option for each particular case. And if there is any doubt left, Dr Lewis’ personal advice is just a Skype’ click away! ‘Our treatments enjoy a 78% success rate and over 80% of our patients do recommend our therapies to their friends.’ There is a team of fully trained multilingual Doctors and nurses on call at the Pratamnak Clinic, offering services far beyond PRP and sport injuries. For more information visit www.surecell.com or call their clinic on +66 90 9803 411.
59
60
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Rujirapun Juangroongruankit Executive Vice President at Pattana Golf Club and Resort. Rujirapun Juangroongruankit is in charge of one of Thailand’s biggest sports complexes, the Pattana Golf Club and Resort in Chonburi. This young Executive Vice President is in fact the daughter of the late Dr. Pattana Juangroongruangkit, who’s family fortune has been made in auto parts manufacturing under the name Thai Summit Group, with successful businesses across Thailand plus in five countries around the world.
61
Cubhouse and conference centre.
H
er father used golf to pursue his business connections, often hosting important Japanese business contacts, and so his dream had always been to have his own golf course. After his death his wife, Dr Samporn Juangroongruangkit and family created Pattana Golf Club in his memory, a 400 acre project which opened in December 2004 and has become one of Thailand’s leading sports complexes. Apart from running the family sports complex, Rujirapun or Khun Mook as she is affectionately known, is also a busy mother of twin girls and an accomplished athlete, specializing in several sports including triathlons. Khun Mook’s aim is to keep her father’s legacy and pursue her mother’s dream of providing a first class sporting complex with facilities for all ages. ‘First we decided to start out with a golf club, 4 star hotel, meeting areas and a large sports stadium. However now with business in the area rapidly expanding
Rujirapun Juangroongruankit Pattana Golf Vice President.
62
Pattana GC.
and many factories opening close by, we decided to embark on phase two of my mother’s dream to turn Pattana into Thailand’s top sporting, meetings and lifestyle resort,” explained Khun Mook. Their MICE business is already very successful and they have many meetings, conventions, executive launches and team build exercises all year round. ‘The theme of the next phase is under the title ‘ development’. Pattana actually means improvement and development in Thai, and apart from offering our hotel, meeting rooms and F&B services, in the future we will also plan to launch the Pattana Development Centre featuring various training courses. We have therefore partnered with several professional facilitators and trainers to offer a variety of programmes featuring finance, team building, leadership and communication management.” They plan to launch their Pattana Development Programme in 2016, which will be aimed at executives or staff from companies in the industrial estates around the property who can get a one stop operation including the
function rooms, hotel, food, sports and these unique software programmes, available in both English and Thai languages. At the moment their MICE clients are all Thai based, however they plan to target overseas business in the future through a targeted PR campaign. The current facilities are very impressive for a country resort and include a 222 room 4 star hotel, a 600m2 convention hall, several international restaurants, a 7,000 seater sports stadium, a large swimming pool and of course a 27 hole championship golf club all on one site. ‘We have other sports events apart from golf and football, and recently hosted our first Triathlon event which had over 650 athletes competing. The overall event attracted over 1,000 people so all the hotels close by were full as well. We used our complex for the 1.5kms swimming in our large lake and the competitors actually ran 10kms around the cart paths on the golf course as well.” Naturally they plan to include their golf facilities for their MICE business
and Khun Mook’s research team have recently been looking at the latest craze from the States called Footgolf. Footgolf using larger holes on special greens can be incorporated onto existing fairways, and is proofing very popular for golf clubs enabling them to earn additional revenue. ‘ We already organise our own successful football tournament called the Industrial Cup, with 32 teams from local factories competing. Plus we coach and run our under 14yrs Pattana football team and this year they were the regional and national champions of Thailand, which we are very proud of. Therefore I believe that something that creates a new sporting lifestyle like Footgolf, could become very popular for our existing teams and for team building as well,’ added Khun Mook. With Rujirapun Juangroongruankit’s determination and enthusiasm, along with the support of her mother and the family business, expect to see her father’s dream realised over the next few years at Pattana, which will become Thailand’s premiere lifestyle resort.
63
What’s going right? In light of on-going Market volatility worrying stakeholders, it is a comforting thought to know there are Funds that have been specifically set up to avoid the machinations of the Worlds’ Stock Markets, in selected Sectors enjoying very strong demand.
S
tock Markets have generally rallied over the period since the 2008 financial crisis, however, the fact is that recent declines have left the major Indices floundering well below 2007 levels. Simply put, had your money been linked to the main indices from then until now, you would still be showing a loss and inflation, albeit at a low level, would be further eating away at your capital. One particular Sector that continues to shine is the Holiday Park leisure business. When we remember the 60’s and 70’s image of the then Holiday camps, it is usually with distain, however, gone are the days of grotty chalets and depressing venues. With a huge modernisation programme providing vastly upgraded facilities, this is one of the Sectors attracting more and more attention. Apart from the fact that it’s on a growth path, a significant number of UK Local Authority Pension Funds have invested in such Funds, along with many big UK Corporate household names. Consequently, we have looked at the Sector in depth. It’s not often we’ve been able to identify a particular Fund that has demonstrated the business acumen required to deliver good Investment performance right throughout the turbulence. The UK Leisure Park business is currently a 3 Billion GBP per annum business and growing. The purchase/rental of prime sites and significantly upgrading the facilities is one part of the equation. ‘Camp’ sites are being replaced with
64
By Tim Whiteley modern, fixed units/log cabins and amenities, resulting in both increased Capital values and higher Revenue streams. One particular organisation, with its Institutional Funding, has been able to put in place an impressive development and acquisition schedule over the coming years, which is likely to ensure continuing worthwhile returns into the medium term. In addition, it won the ‘Alternative Investment Manager of the Year’ award at the 2015 European Pension Awards. Keep in mind, there is no correlation between this Fund’s strong performance and the Stock Markets. Once again, we see the scenario that has proved successful in recent times; a dominant position in a specific Sector that’s enjoying very strong demand, with rising values/income, without direct connection to the ups and downs of the Markets. As with all property or hard asset linked Funds, there is always the question of liquidity. The holding of real assets, by its very nature, means they cannot be disposed of overnight. Nonetheless, the liquidity level maintained in this Fund is well above the industry norm, whilst still achieving worthwhile returns for its stakeholders. There is a ‘bull’ growth period in the UK Leisure Holiday Park Market which is generating substantial profits, however, that is not likely to carry on at this level indefinitely. Industry experts forecast a 10 to 15 year window in
which the UK’s domestic Leisure Parks will be brought up to World Class standards. In the meantime, there could well be an opportunity to reap rewards from this increasingly successful business. The only issue for potential Investors, as we speak, is that this Fund has reached its desired funding level and subscriptions are only being accepted where they replace redemptions through death, or other financial necessity. For interested parties, current availability is on queued ‘request’ basis only. Important Note - This article contains general information only and is not intended to be taken as specific financial, investment, or tax advice. A personal analysis should always be obtained. Tim Whiteley of IFA International has over 25 years as an IFA, advising International Investors and Expatriates, both Onshore UK, and Offshore in Asia. IFA specialises in Wealth Protection Services, Offshore Trusts, QROPS UK Pension Transfers and QNUPS, creating tailor made Investment Solutions for individuals around the World. IFA International does NOT provide discretionary portfolio management, securities advice, forex trading, or local brokerage / insurance products. The services that IFA International Group provides are for International Investors and Expatriates only and are not applicable to local Nationals. This is NOT a solicitation to sell or market securities. Questions to the author can be directed to: timwhiteley@ifainternationalgroup.com
International & Local Construction Company Re-Sales and Rentals Direct from Owners Construction Team Service Real Estate Materials Supply Worldwide connections Low Rise
High Rise
" We specialize in Professionally Managed Luxury Property "
500 Units Sold
8
Projects
" THE FUTURE FOR THAILAND ~ ASEAN GLOBAL"
Mobile : 095 518 8828
Email: naphak@naphak.com
Website: WWW.NAPHAK.COM
Naklua Soi 16, Banglamung, Pattaya
65
66
67
Pattaya’s very own Italian Riviera
If you are new to Pattaya or here on vacation, then you may not know that Pattaya’s true Rivier a is in fact 8 kms east of the city, in a great hideaway called Na Jomtien.
H
iSo Thai’s from Bangkok have made this little enclave of beach front restaurants their favorite destination for years. Now with the Italian restaurant Bacco Beach adding to the atmosphere, Na Jomtien has become the ‘in’ place down by the beach. The brainchild of Italian entrepreneur and food guru Sergio Forte, Bacco Beach is a very impressive 600 seater restaurant adjacent to the Glass House restaurant.
68
Sergio originally created several successful restaurants in Bangkok and his first Bacco outlet in Thonglor is a roaring hit.
this really is a great place to come both during the day or at night for a romantic dinner or just a great night out with the family.
Here in Na Jomtien, and with no expense spared, Sergio and his designers have created a very special and unusual restaurant, where you can either enter through a vast Wine cask or directly from the beach.
With one of the cleanest sandy beaches along the 30 kms coastline around Pattaya, Sergio has created an area where you can spend the day by the sea, where they have sun beds and even luxury changing facilities with showers and towels.
With a choice of tables’ undercover inside or under the stars on the beach,
The menu is extensive, covering great starters including salads, vegetable soup with pesto or fresh seafood soup with
crostini bread. You then have a large selection of fresh pasta with traditional Italian sauces, baked pasta and risotto’s. If seafood is your preference they have snow fish or Brazino imported sea bass. Or for Pizza lovers you can choose from Classic Pizza, Bianche or specials. You will see the vast array of meats on offer at the class display counters along with some very impressive rounds of cheese. For the kids Bacco Beach has some very tasty gelate or ice cream to some of you. To sum up Bacco Beach, which bills itself as a Ristorante, Pizzeria, Bar or Gelateria, is the perfect place to chill out in a very relaxed atmosphere, while taking in some great food and some very cool drinks. Oh and they also have some spectacular sunsets as well, so bring your camera!!!
Editors Note:
Bacco Beach is unique as it not only has some unusual architecture, a large and extensive menu and a great selection of wines and beers, but it also has a superb location on one of the best beaches in town. They even have sun loungers and showers so you can swim, sunbath and chill out there from 11.00am onwards.
69
Phone: 08402
64989 09077 29993
E-mail: info@cafedesamispattaya.com
70
71
72
TO BANGKOK
TO CHACHOENGSAO
314 7 34 315
3 AMATA SPRING C.C.
CHONBURI
7
25
315
349
3 331
344
8 3138 MOUNTAIN SHADOW G.C. 1 BANGPRA G.C. 22 PLEASANT VALLEY G.C.C. 7 KHAO KHEOW C.C.
2
CRYTAL BAY G.C.
BAN BUNG
7
SIRACHA
WANGJUNTR G.P.
344
GREEN WOOD G.C. 5
3241
12
TREASURE 18 HILL G.C.C.
AO UDOM
PATTAVIA CENTURY G.C.
10
LAEM CHABANG
3
331
3
BURAPHA G.C.
7
PATTANA SPORT CLUB & RESORT
3138
9 LAEM CHABANG G.C.
36
24
3245
MINI SIAM
SIAM C.C. WATERSIDE
PATTAYA
17
SIAM C.C. 14 OLD COURSE
19
ASIA PATTAYA HOTEL
Siam Royal View
PARICHAT INTERNATIONAL GOLF LINKS
26
21
20
SIAM C.C. PLANTATION
PATTAYA C.C.
3376
36
16 11
RAYONG GREEN VALLEY C.C.
PHOENIX GOLD GOLF 23 & C.C. PATTAYA ST. ANDREWS 2000 G.C.
331
3
4
3376
332 ROYAL THAI NAVY PLUTALUANG G.C. SATTAHIP
3375
6
15 U TAPAO AIRPORT
THE EMERALD G.C.
3
3191
13
SILKY OAK C.C.
BAN CHANG
EASTERN STAR G.C.
TO RAYONG
Golf Course Directory 1. Bangpra Golf Club 2. Crytal Bay Golf Club 3. Burapha Golf Club 4. The Emerald Golf Club 5. Green Wood Golf Club 6. Eastern Star Country Club 7. Khao Kheow Country Club 8. Mountain Shadow Golf Club 9. Leam Chabang Golf Club
10. Pattana Golf Club & Resort 11. Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club Pattaya 12. Pattavia Century Golf Club 13. Silky Oak Country Club 14. Siam Country Club Old Course 15. Plutaluang Navy Golf Course 16. Rayong Green Valley Country Club 17. Siam Country Club Waterside
18. Treasure Hill Golf & Country Club 29. Asia Pattaya Hotel 20. Siam Country Club Plantation 21. Pattaya Country Club 22. Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club 23. St Andrews 2000 24. Wangjuntr Golf Park 25. Amata Spring Country Club 26. Parichat International Golf Links
73
COURSE DIRECTORY
1
website: www.bangpragolf.co.th Email: tiwa@bangpragolf.co.th Tel: +66 (0) 38 341149-50
2
Tel: +66 (0) 38 349 370-4
74
Bangpra Golf Club is the one of the oldest golf courses in Thailand.
Birdies: A longish course but with some birdie opportunities.
Constructed on a total area of 550 rai, it celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2007. Originally Bangpra Golf occupied only 9 golf holes, however they added another 9 holes, and further improvements were assigned by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Bogeys: The course has some of the most difficult greens to putt in Thailand Watch out for‌.Tourists in particular will enjoy playing alongside monkeys who frequent a couple of the holes here!
Crystal Bay Golf Resort This 27-hole Golf Resort course was designed by Japanese designed Thai Takenaka and opened for play in 1988.
Birdies: The rates charged make this a popular stop for locals and expats, and it does provide a fun round of golf close to the sea.
It is located near Sriracha some 45 minutes from Pattaya and 1.5 hours from Bangkok. Described as a Hawaiian style course with palm tree lined holes, Crystal Bay has good tee boxes, lush fairways and fair greens.
Watch out for: Several birdie able holes and some potential holes in one here. Bogeys: The rates charged make this a popular stop for locals and expats, and it does provide a fun round of golf close to the sea.
COURSE DIRECTORY
Birdies: Perhaps one of the most spectacular holes on course B is the 4th a 403 yard par 4 off a raised tee Burapha Golf Club down across a small lake onto a large landing area. Also the last 4 holes on D course are good fun with plenty of birdie opportunities. Watch Out For‌. Course D takes in the highest part of the course with spectacular views across the valley to its neighbor Laem Chabang Golf Club.
Bogeys: Locker room is a bit old fashion, but is clean and has adequate showers etc. Summing Up: Overall if you want a number of challenges at a fair price then Burapha ticks all the boxes. There is a well-equipped driving range and putting greens plus male and female locker rooms, a pro shop and club restaurant. www.buraphagolfthailand.com
A well maintained 36 hole golf club located only 30km north of Pattaya makes Burapha Golf Club in Chonburi Thailand a popular stop for locals and tourists all year round. Designed by course architect Gary Panks and tour professional David Graham, they have cleverly incorporated the hilly countryside to create four sets of challenging nine holes. The West course is 7,100 yards and the East is 7,300 yards The club has hosted several championships including the Singha Pattaya Open which uses course B and D.
3
www.buraphagolfthailand.com Tel: +66 (0) 38-372-700-2
The local Pattaya Sports Club have also added silver tees just behind the Red Tees for their older players, who did not want the idea of playing off the ladies tees, but need that extra few yards to give them a chance of a good score. This course is very well maintained and the greens play quite fast as well. The caddies are very knowledgeable and many also play golf.
75
COURSE DIRECTORY Birdies: The rates charged make this a popular stop for locals and expats, and it does provide a fun round of golf close to the sea. Watch out for: Several birdie able holes and some potential holes in one here. Bogeys: The rates charged make this a popular stop for locals and expats, and it does provide a fun round of golf close to the sea. 4
www.theemeraldgolf.com Tel: +66 38 941 111
The Emerald Located approximately 40 minutes’ drive east of Pattaya just past Bang Chang, this modest 18 hole course was supposedly designed way back by Sir Nick Faldo. A genuine country course with several single track holes, giving you the feel of playing in a peaceful ‘Hobbit’ style forest. The course which is actually carved through a pristine rain forest with mature trees, has it good and bad days but is always busy as their pricing is reasonable. Birdies: A very pleasant golfing experience, with not so many bunkers but lots of mature trees lining the fairways plus a
5
www.gwgolfclub.com Tel: +66 38 263 158-9
76
Greenwood Golf Club Located around 40 minutes north of Pattaya , this country style 27 hole course (A,B and C nine holes) opened in 2007 was designed by the legendary Peter Thompson 5 times British Open Champion. There are three nine hole courses, styled as a Links, British and American Woodland style courses with Bermuda Dwarf on the greens and fairways Bermuda 419 for you technical golfers. Birdies: The fairways on course A seemed lusher and greener and most
lot of grassy undulating raised greens. Their first par 3 is across a valley up to a very steep green is a challenge. Well done if you make birdie here.
Watch out for: Some very fast and undulating greens especially on the par 3’s. A very friendly golf outing. Feels like you are playing in a green forest…. very peaceful setting.
Bogeys : The locker rooms are very small and old fashioned with have padlocks instead of keys. The club house restaurant is open air so can be humid after a rain storm, but the beers are cool!!!
of the tees offered some ‘WOW’ factors. A good country outing! Bogeys : Staff in pro shop spoke a little English which can be tiresome, but they are friendly. The locker rooms and showers were clean, and although the restaurant was a bit basic, the menu was extensive. Watch Out For...we especially liked the third and eight holes on Course A where you are driving downhill with a second shot over a valley with a small stream up to a raised green surrounded by bunkers.
COURSE DIRECTORY
Birdie: A great starting hole with a sloping green down to a lake.
6
Watch Out For: The topiary is everywhere including elephants and even what looks like the FA Cup on the dogleg at hole number two. Also yardage markers are quaint bird huts on long poles. Bogeys : Can be a bit slow at the weekends, as it is a popular course. www.easternstargolfcourse.com Tel: +66 38 630 410
Eastern Star Country Club This links-style course located near the Gulf of Thailand, is one of only five courses in Thailand designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Set on 530 acres of land the course features wide fairways and hundreds of coconut palm trees. The gently undulating fairways and greens feature 65 bunkers, 11 lakes and more than 2,200 coconut palm trees. The golf resort is conveniently just past Utupao Airport and is situated just 2 kilometers from the sea ensuring a constant
cooling breeze. Like a true links course, it is only slightly above sea level in altitude. Eastern Star has been the venue for local and regional golf tournaments. With open fairways this course will suit beginners and experienced golfers alike. There is a good practice area and driving range in addition to a basic clubhouse providing a wide range of facilities such as an Olympic sized beach pool, tennis courts and locker rooms.
77
COURSE DIRECTORY
7
Khao Kheow Country Club If you are a Pete Dye fan you will warm to this 27-hole championship course roughly 45 minutes along the Pattaya to Bangkok expressway. Dye has come up with some challenges for golf enthusiasts of every level. While offering exciting golf, these courses also provide the most spectacular and serene mountain vistas and climate.
www.khaokheowgolf.com Email: info@khaokheowgolf.com Tel: +66 (0) 2630391-3
Birdies: Dye has created a course that definitely takes you into the countryside, with lakes, fairly generous fairways, hilly fairways and undulating greens. Bogeys : Can be busy at weekends and attracts a few local golf society tournaments so book ahead. Watch out for: Being out near the mountains the course also has its fair share of winds too, making for a very pleasant round of golf.
Photo
8
Mountain Shadow Golf Club Address : 159/1 Moo 2 Saensuk Rd. Muang Chonburi 20130 Tel : +66 38 393 019
78
Mountain Shadow Golf Club formerly the Natural Park Hill Golf Crystal Bay Golf Resort Club, re-opened 2004 after a complete This 27-hole Golf Resort renovation. Located halfway course betweenwas designed byPattaya, Japanese designed Thai Bangkok and this Ronald Fream Takenaka18and opened forrunning play inat designed holes is a par 72 1988.yards. 6,722 It was crafted out of a former mango It is located near Sriracha some plantation with beautiful flowers and trees 45 minutes from Pattaya providing a backdrop to each and hole.1.5 hours from Bangkok. Described as a Fairways and greens are kept in reasonably Hawaiian styleUtilizing coursewater withhazards, palm tree good condition. lined holes, Crystal hastogood doglegs and four islandBay greens good tee boxes,the lush fairways and fair greens. effect, relatively short 18-hole course is well suited for golfers of all levels.
Birdies: A very pretty course and an enjoyable round of golf is guaranteed. Watch out for: Greens are fast and generally have large undulations. Bogeys: The narrow palm tree lined fairways make it a challenge to recover from errant tee shots. Adding to the difficulty is also the relative long distance between the tees and the fairways. Shorter tee shots often wind up in the difficult to hit out of semi rough.
COURSE DIRECTORY
Birdie: Their Valley course is perhaps the most exciting nine holes in the region. Jack really asks you to think about your strategy here on every hole. Watch Out For: Pattaya’s only night course as their Lakes nine holes are flood lite allowing for play up to midnight. They have also renovated their large clubhouse which serves excellent buffets with live music in the evenings too! No need to
9
rush back after your round here. Leam Chabang also has a hotel, golf lodge, a large pro shop and swimming pool. Bogeys: A popular course, so expect some delays especially on the tee boxes at the weekends.
The name “Jack Nicklaus” is very well known for the golfers all over the world, and this is one of his best designers anywhere, which he likes to recommend... It is now has been 20 years old since the course opened, and it still preserves a very good layout. The course itself has been improved using Paspalum on the fairways which are same as tee boxes, and the greens with 9.0 speed Tiff Eagle. The golf course has 27 holes, separated into course A, B and C. Each course has its own outstanding characteristics and each is named by geography.
www.laemchabanggolf.com Email: info@laemchabanggolf.com Tel: +6682 2223031-3
Course A (Mountain) according to the landscape of the course, the player has to cross over several hills with sloping fairways. Course B (Lake) has 9 holes with water hazards instead of the forest bunkers on the A Course. The outstanding hole here is hole 6 B, where players have to play down through the hill with the big lake between the fairways and green. The course C (Valley) 9 holes are different from course A and B, which are integrated into the mountain and lake. Since the fairways are slightly narrower, and there are a lot of water hazards this course C offers the most difficult challenge.
79
COURSE DIRECTORY
www.pattana.co.th Email: Marketing@pattana.co.th Tel: 038-318-999 Golf Reservation: 038-263-378-9 3-storey Clubhouse with all the supporting services and amenities including locker rooms, pro shop, spa, international restaurants, and function rooms. We welcome all guests with great ambiance and full services to ensure that each golfing experience is an unforgettable one.
ISO 9001 : 2008
The Pattana Driving Range is the best place to shape and hone golf skills. With well marked distance signage, chipping green, real grass option, on-site snack bar and automatic ball dispensers, there is no limit to your drive for perfection.
10
Pattana Golf Club & Resort is an all encompassing recreational sports resort destination dedicated to individuals, families, and groups with a healthy inspired way of living. Located a mere 90 minutes from Bangkok, and neighboring the coastal areas
80
of Bangsaen, Pattaya, and Rayong, the 400-acre resort property boasts a 27-hole championship golf course, full range of premium accommodations, amenities, meeting and event facilities, and a quality stadium with a 7,000-person capacity.
COURSE DIRECTORY
Birdie: Signature hole is the par 3 hole 7 on the Ocean course. Be careful of the winds so club selection is vital‌.listen to your caddie. Watch Out For: Some holes have magnificent views of the ocean and Silverlake in the distance. Being mainly on high ground there are
11
welcome breezes most of the year to keep you cool. Bogeys : Food is a bit limited on the course kiosks and they give you change in vouchers.
Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club Pattaya Perhaps the nearest golf course to central Pattaya, Phoenix Gold is only 25 minutes away. Originally designed by Denis Griffiths in 1993, this 27 hole course has recently been upgraded on instructions of the new owners by Piraporn Nimatra, who designed Banyan in Hua Hin.
www.phoenixgoldgolf.com Email: reservation@phoenixgoldgolf.com Tel: +66 (0) 38 239 400 Mobile +66 (0) 84 873 5363
Piraporn has worked his magic on the Ocean and Mountain courses and the Lakes course has just re opened as well. The yardage is Mountain at 3,449 yards, Lake at 3,261 yards and Ocean at 3,363 yards. Facilities include a driving range, restaurant, Pro-shop, several meeting rooms and separate male and female locker rooms.
81
COURSE DIRECTORY
12
www.pattaviagolf.com Tel: +66 (0) 81-304 1545
13
www.standrews2000golf.com Email : golfing@standrews2000golf.com Tel : 081-940818, 038-030660-2
82
Pattavia Century Golf Club. Recently Bay Crystal takenGolf overResort by Chang the This Golf this Resort course was major27-hole Thai brewery, 18 hole country designed by Japanese course originally opened indesigned 1993 has Thai Takenaka andup opened for play had the course graded and a newin 1988. minimalistic clubhouse built between the 1st and 18th holes. It is located Sriracha some Although not anear championship course, 45 Pattaya 1.5 theminutes layout wasfrom interesting, theand fairways hours from Bangkok. Described were OK and the greens were in good as a Hawaiian style course with palm condition. Maybe the rough could be tree lined holes, Bay need has good trimmed backCrystal so you don’t a minetee boxes, fairways andball! fair greens. detectorlush to find your errant
Birdies: For value for money Pattavia is hard to equal, if you enjoy a leisurely stroll around a well maintained country golf course. Watch out for: We found the greens were quick so listen to the caddies, as their undulations are often extreme. Bogeys : Not easy to find, (they need a few road signs!!!) it is around a 50 minute drive from Pattaya along the 331 about 2 kms north of Treasure Hill. At the top of the hill there is currently a small sign Pattavia so turn right and drive for another 7kms.
Silky Oak Country Club Located near Rayong, about 40 Crystal Resort minutes Bay fromGolf Pattaya, Silky Oak shares the This Golfclubhouse Resort course same27-hole location and with thewas St designed by Golf Japanese designed Thai Andrews 2000 Club and the Rayong Takenaka opened Green Valleyand Country Club.for play in 1988. Opened in 2010 this 7,135 yard par 72 course gets its name after a native of It is located Sriracha some Australian treenear that resembles a pine and is 45 Pattaya and the 1.5 golf theminutes main tree from planted throughout hours course.from Bangkok. Described as a
Birdies: Most holes on the course play to panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Least busy of the three courses so you should have no delays here.
Hawaiian style course with palm tree lined holes, Crystal Bay has good tee boxes, lush fairways and fair greens.
Watch out for: The half-way houses located on top of the hills have extra special breathtakingly scenery. Be sure to stop here between nines to really take in the magic of the area. Bogeys : Make sure you arrive early as it is a 10 minute drive by golf cart from the clubhouse to the first hole.
COURSE DIRECTORY
Birdies: The condition of the course is always immaculate and certainly the first hole driving down to some menacing bunkers and an undulating green will certainly test your nerves.
14
Watch out for: Everything works like clockwork here, as you are called onto the first tee and set off on your adventure, don’t be late!! Pattaya. Bogeys : Due to its popularity during high season it is vital to book well in advance, to avoid disappointment. www.siamcountryclub.com Tel +66 (0)38 909700
The Old Course boosts an 18 hole Championship course, and has hosted many golfing events such as the Thailand Open four times, Asian Golf Circuits and the latest a world class tournament “Honda LPGA Thailand”. The Old Course was constructed back in September 1969, originally designed by I. Izumi, and has just been completely renovated with Mr. Lee Schmidt of Schmidt-Curley Design Inc. as a course architect.
In addition, the 101 bunkers are there for beauty and challengers for all golfers alike. Only 15 minutes from Pattaya and 75 minutes via motorway from Bangkok, the club is well worth a visit. You will need to book in advance and in the summer they are often closed on Monday’s. Siam Country Club also owns the adjacent 27 hole Siam Plantation course plus the latest offering the new Siam Waterside, making this the largest golf complex in Thailand.
A popular grass, Seashore Paspalum, was chosen for the fairways and Novotek for the greens.
83
COURSE DIRECTORY
15
www.plutaluangnavygolfcourse.com Telephone: +66 (0) 80 209 9175, +66 (0) 81 003 3811, +66(0) 33 679 932-3
16
www.standrews2000golf.com Tel: (+66 )38-030660-2
Plutaluang Navy Golf Course Not your normal course designer here as the course was actually designed by the Royal Thai Navy Committee. Primarily open to allow the large Navy base to have a course nearby, there are in fact there are 13,076 yards with 36 holes on offer here. Many locals play here as it offers great value. Located 33 kms east of Pattaya to set up includes a massive locker room with hot showers, Pro Shop, Driving Ranges, 2 Putting Greens, a large Restaurant, 150 new golf carts, and over 350 caddies.
Rayong Green Valley Country Club This 18 hole Crystal Baycourse Golf Resort is part of a This 27-hole course mammoth golfGolf resortResort comprising of was designed byStJapanese designed over 72 holes, with Andrews 2000 and Thai Takenaka opened play Silky Oaks also alland sharing a largefor joint clubin 1988. house and two onsite hotels. Rayong Greennear ValleySriracha was designed It is located somein 45 minutes Pattaya and 1.5 1992 by Peter from Thomson to accommodate hours Bangkok. Described as a all levelsfrom of players, and located between Hawaiian style palmhas tree Rayong town andcourse Pattaya,with the course lined Bay haschallenge good tee a goodholes, layout Crystal and offers a solid boxes, lush fairways fair greens. with wide fairways up toand relatively small undulating greens.
84
Birdies: Some raised tees add to the experience. Bogeys : Great prices so can be a bit slow if you are following a five ball. Watch out for: A full size Lighthouse on their par 3….photo opportunity here.
Birdies: Enjoy hole No 3. Although it has a fairly wide uphill fairway, Thompson has created some cleverly place bunkers around the raised green, so help from your caddie here is vital. But birdies are rewarded here. Watch out for: Some very well placed water hazards and bunkers with small tricky greens here…..but still one of the most enjoyable courses in the region. Bogeys : A very popular course with Scandinavian golf groups so best avoid those days when the tee off in large groups…can create a bottle neck.
COURSE DIRECTORY
Birdie: Holes 8 and 9 offer some wonderful challenges around the lake as does the finishing hole 18.
Watch Out For: Highlight of the Waterside apart from the course has to be their clubhouse with 180 degree view of the beauty of the course, lakes, creeks and landscape blending with natural surroundings. Good sized restauarant, pro shop and changing rooms all add to a five star service. Bogeys : Can be quite breezy here, however great in the hot summer.
In May 2014 Siam Country Club launched it 3rd new golf course project in Thailand called Siam Country Club Pattaya Waterside. Now with 63 holes Siam Country Club has now become the biggest golfing resort in Thailand. The Waterside is an 18-hole, par 72, 7454 yards covering the area of 525 rai (200 acres) but holds the same championship qualities of the successes of the Old Course (18-hole) and Plantation (27-hole) on the property next door, which are already renowned golf courses among the best in Asia Pacific.The course was designed
17
www.siamcountryclub.com Tel : +66(0) 38 909 700
by IMG Golf Course Design, one of the world renowned golf course architects and built by the same team who built Banyan in Hua Hin. Golfers will experience creation of design in harmony with nature. With many water-feature holes, including lakes and creeks in play, the course offers a great challenge from the back tees at the same time offering enjoyment for everyone from the regular tees.
85
COURSE DIRECTORY
18
www.treasurehill.co.th Tel : 038-420-766, 081-344-8002, 02-295-0856 Fax. 02. -295-0857
19
Tel : 038 250401-11 www.asiahotel.co.th/asia_pattaya.htm
86
Treasure Hill Golf & Country Club Treasure Hill is a beautiful course with the natural environment where you can experience the serenity of the country side along with a good golf challenge with complex features at each hole. Opened over 20 years ago and designed by Mr.Yoshikazu Kato Treasure Hill who has paid meticulous attention to every hole on this par 72 course 7,241 yards course. A first sight the course may look simple. But when you start playing a round you understand that it will be a good challenge to play your handicap. Located around 40 minutes’ drive from Pattaya, Greenwood and Pattavia Century golf clubs are also nearby
Asia Pattaya Hotel Right in the heart of Pattaya on Crystal BayRoad GolfSoi Resort Pratamnak 4 (between South This 27-hole Golf Resort Pattaya and Jomtien Beach)course is a greatwas par designed by hole Japanese Thai 3 course nine course designed owned by the Takenaka and opened forfrom playthe in Asia Pattaya hotel. 968 yards 1988. back tees this is a handy par 27 course. Considered a good course to improve Ityour is located nearand Sriracha some short game rescue shots 45 minutes from Pattaya and 1.5 due to the fairly rough surface. Very hours from Bangkok. Described as a conveniently located next to the sea at Hawaiian course the end of style Pratumnak Soiwith 4, theypalm hire tree lined Crystal has good clubs holes, and balls, so toneBay up your short tee boxes, lushbefore fairways and fair greens. game here venturing out to conquer one of the 22 local courses.
Birdies: This course has some smallish occasional water hazards to negotiate and fewer than usual bunkers that are a bit larger than normal, and there are several dogleg holes demanding that you position your tee shots carefully. Bogeys : This golf course sits on foothill terrain that makes it quite challenging, with sloping fairways and greens. Even the avid golfer may find it challenging to play their normal shots on this course. Watch out for: Club house restaurant serving Thailand, China, Japan, and the local food, wine, beer, soft drinks, plus they have a Jacuzzi to get rid of those aches.
Birdies: Great place to practice on some fairly tricky greens. Watch out for: Beginners may hold you up. Bogey : Not in tip top condition, but the greens are well maintained.
COURSE DIRECTORY
Birdie: Being on the side of a hill, all 27 holes get a fair breeze which is great in the hot months. They also have a good variety of snacks and cool drinks at the on course kiosks here.
20
Watch Out For: First class service all the way especially the very well trained caddies and they have one of the best club houses in the region. Popular with lots of corporate and local tournaments so best to book ahead. Bogeys : Some of the greens really are extremely difficult to read, and with 205 bunkers you will need you’re a game here.
www.siamcountryclub.com Tel : +66 (0) 38 909 700
Opened in 2008 this monster 27 hole course was designed by Scmidt – Curley Design and hosted the 2009 Honda LPGA Thailand and also the unique Singha Amazing Thailand Caddie Championship finals.
Carts are compulsory and necessary here as it is quite hilly. There are quite a lot of WOW factor holes here and to be honest whether you play the 3,736 yard Sugar Cane course, the 3,752 yard Tapioca course or the 3,645 yards Pineapple course they all offer some wonderful challenges.
There is a good driving range to allow players to warm up first, along with a large putting green and practice area near the first tees.
87
COURSE DIRECTORY
21
www.pattayacountryclub.com Tel : +66(0)81 654 5654
Pattaya Country Club Well located on the 331 and near to Crystal Bay Golf Resort the 36 intersection this course was This 27-hole Golfand Resort course was recently up graded has just opened a designed Japanese designed Thai magnificentby new clubhouse. Takenaka and Pattaya, openedthis for18play Only 18km from holein course 1988. designed by Thai Lt General Weerayut Phedbeusasak is a fairly flat layout with It is located some a few lakes andnear well Sriracha place bunkers, ideal 45 minutes from andThere 1.5 is for beginners or lowPattaya scorers alike. hours from Bangkok. Described as a a 300 yard driving range and the course Hawaiian style1,800 course withapalm occupying over rai offers breezytree lined holes, Crystal Bay has good tee day out.
Birdies: Low handicappers can score low on this course. Watch out for: Possibly the most interestingly designed club house around. Bogeys: Popular at weekends as it is so close to Pattaya and the Eastern Seaboard Factories
boxes, lush fairways and fair greens.
22
www.pleasantvalley-golf.com Tel: 081-4105522, 085-0454050
88
Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club Pleasant Valley is located amongst then mountains north of the city of Pattaya, and is cooled by the breezes blowing across the golf course. The Khao Kheow national park with lakes and water-fall are located only a few minutes’ drive from the club house and Khao Kheow golf course is also nearby. It’s a great day for relaxation not only for golfers, but also for family members who are seeking time in the natural beauty of our country. The course is surrounded by the mountains and offers a few water hazards and undulations, on a fairly small area of land. Same owners are now constructing a new course next to Pattaya Country Club which has now opening date yet.
Birdies: A relatively short course so opportunities for low scores here. Bogeys: Relatively cheap rates means this can be a very busy courses. Watch out for: They offer several promotional packages for both weekday and weekends so check out their website.
COURSE DIRECTORY
St Andrews 2000 This is an extremely long course playing at 7,700yards to par 74, as it features two massive par 6’s. It is part of a 72 holes resort sharing its clubhouse with Rayong Green Valley and Silky Oaks. English born golf course architect Desmond Muirhead has created one of Pattaya’s most spectacular golf courses, as St Andrews 2000 was built to replicate a Scottish links course. Located in Rayong, it is about 40 minutes from Pattaya.
Wangjuntr Golf Park Perhaps one of the most memorable golf courses in the Crystal Bay Golf Golf Resort region, Wangjuntr Park now This 27-hole Golfthe Resort was has three courses, Valley course (18 holes), designed byholes) Japanese designed Thai Highland (18 and their new Jungle Takenaka and opened course (18 holes). Park is in for factplay the in 1988. correct term as their signature course, the Highland’s 18 holes, is actually Itbuilt is located near Sriracha some around an animal sanctuary with 45 minutes from Pattaya and 1.5 deer, ostrich and cattle roaming the hours fromcountryside. Bangkok. Described spectacular Around 70 as a Hawaiian style course withneed palm minutes North East of Pattaya to tree lined holes, Crystal Baybut has good book in advance. Whacky great fun!tee boxes, lush and fair and greens. N.B. They are fairways closed on Mondays on other days somtime only open two of the three courses, so call them first before booking.
Birdies: There is a certain thrill when you look down from a high tee box to a valley below with humps and hollows, knowing that you have to drive with a degree of accuracy. Risk and reward is the name of the game here! Bogeys: The facilities although perhaps a little old fashion, are quite adequate. Watch out for: There are two par 6’s, both over 800 yards, claimed to be the World’s longest par 6! Good luck if you par them!
Birdies: Hole No 1 is a par 4 408 yard par 4 where if you want you can tee off on the roof of the drinks kiosk down into the valley below. (A Kodak moment perhaps!) However the signature hole has to be No14 on the Highland’s course…..tee box has to be 100Metres above the fairway. Watch out for: To offer golfers 36 holes, both Valley and Highland courses have two separate greens on each hole. When you arrive they give you a left hand or right hand score card so you know what to play on that round. Bogeys: The greens here offer an additional challenge as many have mounds, boulders or even a pond slap bang in the middle, so beware and ask your caddy for advice before taking your final approach shot.
23
www.standrews2000golf.com Tel: (+66 )38-030660-2
24
www.wangjuntrgolf.com
89
COURSE DIRECTORY
25
www.amataspring.co.th Tel : +66 (0) 38-468-888
Amata Spring Country Club is an exclusive private country Crystal Bay Golf Resort club featuring one of the This Golfand Resort course was most27-hole prestigious recognizable designed by Japanese designed Thai championship courses in Asia. Located in Takenaka and opened play ,inthe Chonburi 50 minutes fromfor Pattaya 1988. course and facilities provide our members with the best private club experience Itunmatched is locatedanywhere near Sriracha some in the country. 45 minutes fromthe Pattaya 1.5 Since its opening courseand has been hours fromtoBangkok. Described a privileged host the highest profile as golf Hawaiian styleincourse with of palm tree events staged the Kingdom Thailand.
Birdies: Course is a true championship track always in immaculate condition. Watch out for: The 17th is the course’s signature hole, featuring the one of the most famous island greens in the world. Get to it by boat. Bogeys: Avoid the rough here as the grass is long and difficult to get out of.
lined holes, Crystal Bay has good tee boxes, lush fairways and fair greens.
Parichat International Golf Links This is currently the newest 18 hole course in the Pattaya region. Next door to the Pattaya Country Club, this 7,201 yard course is currently on a soft opening with a temporary clubhouse. The course is called a Links although most of the holes offer wide fairways with small greens. It is already becoming popular with local golf societies, as its location on the 331 means you can get there from Central Pattaya in 25 minutes.
90
26
Birdie: There are some fun holes including hole 17 with a cliff guarding the raised green. Watch Out For: Some of the tee boxes are set back so suggest you play White tees if you cannot carry 175 yards to some fairways. Bogeys: The greens here are on the whole very small and are hard to get close to pin.
www.parichatgolf.com Email: sales@parichatgolf.com Tel: +66 (0) 90 3860001-3
Wherever you go 2bU connects you 2bU golf apparel is available in selective Pro Shops around Thailand and can also be purchased online with worldwide delivery guaranteed. Feel free to create your own style, pattern and color of golf or leisure sports wear for your team, company or event. 2bU will assist and fashion them for you to perfection. Visit us and stay connected www.2bU.biz
O rd er n ow worl dwide de l ive ry