May/June 2016
Issue 7
2016 CADDIE CHAMPIONSHIP
Round One Pictures
COURSE REPORT
Pattavia Century Golf Club
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Asian Tour Chairman
OVERSEAS DESTINATION
Cambodia
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From the
May/June 2016
Issue 7
Publishers desk Pattaya golf continues to go from strength to strength, just as we were going to print, it was announced that the prestigious ‘Kings Cup’ Tournament, will be hosted by the Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club on July 27th-31st 2016. Cover : Caddie Bo from Phoenix Gold
This tournament will be co-sanctioned by both the European Tour and the Asian Tour so it is a real coup for both the club and Pattaya to have attracted such an important golf tournament. 2016 is set to be crazy busy with the Olympic Games playing havoc with the schedules, we may not see all the big names. However, as the club has signed a three year contract expect to see the Kings Cup become a top Asian event. In this issue we have an exclusive interview with the owner of the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country club. We find out what clubs here in Pattaya and across Thailand are charging during the low season and we meet the Asian Tour Chairman too. Our trip to Cambodia was awesome and we hope you like our round up of all those caddies at the Caddie Championship too. Finally, on our cover we feature one of the colorful ‘caddies’ a picture unique to golf in Thailand, enjoy!
By Charlie Warner
Publisher Editor in Chief Laddawan Kaewhan. CEO & Advertising Charlie Warner. T.086 088 8744 charlie@thepattayagolfer.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
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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
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CONTENTS
Destination Report : Kao Yai
Course Report : Pattavia Century
Interview with the Owner
See Page 14 - 17
See Page 22 - 25
See Page 26 - 27
Are you getting a fair deal?
See Page 32 - 34
8 14 18 22 6
News Destination Report: Kao Yai Interview: Mark Siegel Course Report: Pattavia Century
26 28 30 32 36 40 42 44 50 55 58 62 66 73
Interview with the Owner Local Golfer Playing with your Mates Are you getting a fair deal? Exclusive Interview : Asian Tour Chairman Caddies 1st Round Caddie Championship 2016 Overseas Destination : Cambodia
Overseas Destination: Cambodia
Online Summer Rates
See Page 44 - 48 Mena Golf Tour Lexus Restaurant Review: Rossini Real Estate: Relaxing Retreat Golf Map
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News European Tour Event in Pattaya
The King’s Cup will make a welcome return on to the in Japan. With the King’s Cup now featuring on our 2016 Asian Tour Schedule from July 28 to 31, 2016 with a Schedule, it will provide further playing opportunities lucrative US$750,000 prize fund on offer. for our members, especially with the Olympic Games being held a few weeks after the tournament. For the first time in the tournament’s history, the King’s Cup will also be jointly sanctioned by The European “We are also delighted to co-sanction the King’s Cup Tour, which will receive 25 spots for its players at the with The European Tour. I believe this will strengthen Phoenix Gold Golf Club in Pattaya. what is already a highly regarded and prestigious golf tournament.” The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) will support the King’s Cup once again as a major sponsor. Asian Keith Pelley, Chief Executive of The European Tour, Tour Media will broadcast the tournament live on the said: “We are delighted to be adding another tournament Asian Tour’s global television platform which has a to the schedule, which gives those European Tour potential reach of over 180 nations and territories and members not playing in the US PGA Championship an 740 million homes. opportunity to compete that week. SAT Governor Sakon Wannapong said: “We are delighted to announce the return of the King’s Cup which is truly a revered golf tournament in Thailand and Asia as it is staged in honour of our King of Thailand.
The field for the King’s Cup will comprise of 90 players from the Asian Tour, 25 from The European Tour and 25 from Thailand PGA. Prize money earned from the tournament will count towards the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit and also on the Race to Dubai ranking on The “The SAT will work closely with the event promoter European Tour. Greatness Holdings, Thailand PGA, Asian Tour and European Tour to ensure the 2016 staging of the King’s The King’s Cup will be the second tournament in Cup is successful. With live television, it will promote Thailand to be jointly sanctioned by the Asian Tour and our nation extensively across the globe and showcase the The European Tour following the staging of the True beauty of our nation.” Thailand Classic earlier this season.
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Asian Tour Commissioner Kyi Hla Han said the return Editors Note: This is a big deal for Pattaya, and with of the King’s Cup was a tremendous boost for the this TV and general media coverage will help raise the development of professional golf in the region. profile of Phoenix Gold, the city’s tourism industry and the attractions in the region. It is also a timely boost “Since the beginning of this year, the Asian Tour has for local hotels and restaurants as the tour attracts large already welcomed back tournaments in Singapore, numbers including players, caddies, media, organisers Myanmar and Korea and also launched a new tournament and spectators!
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News Thailand Golf & Dive Expo 2016
Make a note to visit Thailand’s most comprehensive range of golf destinations, products, and services at the THAILAND GOLF EXPO 2016. This popular expo takes place alongside Southeast Asia’s most comprehensive range of diving destinations, liveabroad trips, products, and equipment at THAILAND DIVE EXPO 2016 going to be held during May 12-15, 2016 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok. Golf lovers will enjoy special offers from more than 50 golfing destinations such as Black Mountain, Riverdale, Bonanza Golf & Country Club, and many more. Special promotions from SportsMall with up to 50% off on selected golfing equipment and accessories from vast array of international-renowned brands like Callaway, Mizuno, Oakley, Nike Golf, PING. These special discounts are offered only at this megaannual expo! You can also test your golfing skills to the limit with the expo’s “One Putt 100,000 THB” competition, by putting a mere 20 yards on an artificial green, with the winners taking over THB100,000. Young golfers aged under 12 can enter the “Junior Challenge Putt” and possibly winning scholarships. At THAILAND DIVE EXPO 2016 you can get the best deals for your diving courses, diving trips, and diving gears from the top selected brands such as Aqua Lung, Mares, Gull, Tusa, Cressi, Scubapro, and more.
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Tailor-made seminar sessions from professional underwater photographers will also take place alongside the exhibition, so grab yourself the best seats on the house before it runs out! Don’t miss these two extravagant expos if you area golf or dive lover, taking place from 12-15 May 2016, daily at 11.00 -20.00 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok For more information, visit www.thailanddvieexpo.com or www.thailandgolfexpo.com
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News
Darren Clarke, Patron of the MENA Golf Tour, with Mohamed Juma Buamaim, chairman of the tour.
Thailand’s Mountain Creek and Banyan set for MENA Golf Tour debut
The events will showcase growing strength of the tour
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he MENA Golf Tour will make its maiden voyage to the “Land of Smiles,” as Thailand is popularly known for its effusive hospitality, when it hosts two events there next
“We are delighted to be making our first visit to Thailand where you don’t just get great golf, but enjoy a memorable experience,” commented Mohamed Juma Buamaim, chairman of the MENA Golf Tour.
The Mountain Creek Thailand Open by Golf Citizen - the fifth event on this year’s schedule - will be held from May 10 to 12, followed by the Mahasamutr Masters at Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin on May 17-19 in a vivid reflection of the tour’s growing strength.
“If Thailand has positioned itself as the number one golf destination in Asia, it is because of an impressive portfolio of world-class courses, many of them designed by the world’s leading architects and famed golfers, offering value for money,” he added.
month.
With the Tourism Authority of Thailand stepping up its drive to attract more in-bound tourists, the two events are aimed at realising the country’s huge golf tourism potential in addition to promoting Golf Citizen, one of the fastest growing online tee time booking engines which has richly-diverse golf courses on its network. “A lot of fresh talent coming up through the ranks over the last few years, but the opportunities to play are limited. With MENA Golf Tour travelling to new destinations, it will provide another platform for young professionals to develop and showcase their skills on a global basis,” said Darren Clarke, Patron of the MENA Golf Tour.
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“This MENA Golf Tour is one of a kind providing the right atmosphere, and particularly for amateurs, to hone their competitive edge alongside professionals, which is crucial to the development of the game in the region,” added Clarke, the 2016 European Ryder Cup captain.
“Thailand’s economy benefits both directly and indirectly from golf tourism, and there is a positive synergy between golf and the key tourism sectors. Golf is just one of the many reasons that people visit Thailand to savour the experience of playing on courses of international standard.” “We look forward to welcoming MENA Golf Tour members and I am confident they will relish the challenge of playing on two of the finest courses in Thailand. I wish them the very best.” Besides providing a healthy playing environment, the MENA Golf Tour offers its members a number of incentives that include multiple European Tour starts and full playing privileges on the Sunshine Tour in addition to exemptions into the Final Stage of the Asian Tour Q-School. Held under the auspices of the Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation, the MENA Golf Tour is affiliated to R&A and the Arab Golf Federation and its expanded schedule this season will have 20 events which will see players travel to new destinations in Kuwait, Egypt, Spain, Thailand and South Africa.
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Destination Report
Kao Yai
One of the pleasures of visiting or living in Thailand, is the large variation of golfing experiences available.
H
ere in Pattaya although we are blessed with over 26 golf courses, it is a pleasure to drive off with a few mates to test your golf in some different regions. One area popular with everyone is Kao Yai, a fairly mountainous region around two and half hours North East of Bangkok.
There are around twelve clubs here and many will experience the Jack Nicklaus designed Kiri Maya or Bonanza, Panorama a single track country style layout or St James tracks. However the top three, which we feel are a bit ahead of the rest are Rancho Charnvee, Toscana Valley and Mountain Creek courses. Closest to Bangkok (1.5 hours) is Rancho Charnvee, an 18 hole Bob McFarland designed course which has hosted several
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championships over the past few years. The course is always in tip top condition and for the opening hole you tee off past a motor boat over a lake uphill onto the fairway. An interesting test to start you off on the front nine playing around a country farm house. Unusually on the back nine they even have an airstrip and hangar close to the eleventh, in case you prefer to fly in to play. This course has slightly wider fairways then other courses in the area, and players may need to deal with some windy conditions too. There is a modern clubhouse in front of a lake and although there is no driving range they have excellent locker rooms and a relaxing area to have a snack or a full meal overlooking the 18th hole. Next along the Kao Yai trail is the members club called Toscana Valley, a
Rancho Charnvee GC
Toscana Valley
Toscana Valley luxurious residential complex with space for over 500 villas all created in an Italian style....they are even building a hotel here modeled on the famous leaning tower of Pisa. This 18 hole course originally designed by Bob McFarland, then team that created St Andrews 2000 in Pattaya eventually finished the final layout. Here they kick off high up by the clubhouse down into the valley below. There are some interesting tee boxes built on plinths where you tee off over water. Also they have some beautifully shaped par threes often with an interesting backdrop of one of their luxurious Tuscany style villas. Raised greens, some fairly deep bunkers and some fairway drop offs are the feature
Toscana Valley
on many of the holes here. There are also a few 200 yard water carries on the par 4’s to contend with. Toscana Valley is effectively open for residents only, so they often don’t have many rounds here especially during weekdays. However it is possible to enjoy some millionaires golf here, if you are prepared to ring ahead and book around seven days a head. They will even give you a discount with vouchers to spend in their clubhouse restaurant. Currently they are increasing the lakes in the valley as they need more water to keep the fairways in good condition. Not one of the cheapest rounds in the area but a fun layout all the same.
Mountain Creek
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Mountain Creek No.3 Fish Eye Perhaps we have left the star attraction until last, and a further 40 minutes up the Expressway 2 is the 27 hole Mountain Creek Golf Resort. Apparently the late great Seve Ballesteros is claimed as the original designer, although we are not sure if Seve actually made it there before he died. Opened in 2008 they have recently brought in GLS Asia golf consultants, who are also the team behind the successful Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin. Their brief was to make a few holes play a little easier and they have also paid attention to the course maintenance too and improved marketing. For a true country track, the quality of this course is very impressive, and there are several Kodak moments as you move around the course, with fantastic views across the region.
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Mountain Creek No. 3
Mountain Creek No.2 Boulders and Bunkers.
Mountain Creek Par 3 7th The Highland and Valley courses are perhaps a bit easier, but personally I liked their Creek nine holes which kicks off with a very tricky par 5. Overall this is a very enjoyable and fun outing. The caddies are well trained and their modern clubhouse has an excellent
restaurant, a spa, a very well equipped pro shop and large locker rooms. This is a full resort and they have around 33 luxury villas running alongside the fairway, so this is a perfect place to stay and play and to take in all 27 holes over a couple of days.
Mountain Creek Par 3
Rancho Charnvee GC
Rancho Charnvee GC
Editors Note: From Pattaya we took the expressway via Suvarnabhumi Airport and then staying on expressways 9, 1 and then 2 it took around three and half hours to reach Rancho Charnvee and another 45 minutes to reach Mountain Creek. Apart from some excellent golf, the Kao Yai National Park has some beautiful mountain views and incredible wildlife too. The park covers more than 2,000 square kilometers of forest and grassland in central Thailand. Over 50 kilometers of hiking and biking trails wind through the long-standing nature preserve, and its many waterfalls include 150m-tall Haew Narok and 20m-tall Haew Suwat, immortalized in the Danny Boyle film “The Beach.� The park also shelters diverse wildlife like bears, gibbons, elephants and hornbills, so bring your camera.
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Mr Golfasian Mark Siegel
Mark Siegel is a very friendly American who loves to inspect and play a golf course every other day of the year. However before you pre-judge him, this is not only his passion, but also his job, as he is the Managing Director of Asia’s leading golf tour operator Golfasian (www.golfasian.com)
Last year Golfasian handled in excess of 15,000 international golf vacationers. They have company operations in all major Asian golf destinations including Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and of course here in Thailand. Pattaya Golfer caught up with Mark Siegel this month on his way to play another course and asked him about golf in Asia.
How has the past 6 months compared with previous years? Well the numbers were encouraging considering the problems encountered especially in Thailand. That said Hua Hin and Pattaya have increased at the expense of other regions such as Phuket. People are beginning to realize that Pattaya provides some of the best courses in the country and in addition renowned nightlife, also one of the
best golf destinations in Asia, if not the world. I expect the next year’s figures to increase. Focusing first on Thailand what are your top 5 courses in terms of volume of vacationers? Black Mountain and Banyan golf clubs in Hua Hin are constantly in demand. We also send many clients to the three Siam Country Club courses in Pattaya.
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How does Thailand compare value wise with other Asian golf destinations? Surprisingly enough the top clubs across Asia are all quite similar, charging between US$150-200 a round. Danang, Bali, Pattaya are good examples offering great golfing experiences at similar rates. Hua Hin is slightly less expensive. Thailand has one big advantage though compared to other Asian countries. That is while other destinations can offer the high end courses; Thailand has many mid-tier courses that are also very enjoyable and excellent choices for those on a more limited holiday budget. What do you feel the courses can do to improve their services? Thailand golf courses should look at improving their clubhouse facilities, many of which were built over 20 -30 years ago and are looking a bit dated. The actual golf courses however in general are in top condition throughout the year. In your opinion what country has the best caddies? Indonesia has the best caddies as they are very well trained, are very consistent in presentation, and provide a quality golf experience day in and day out, from caddie to caddie, and from golf club to golf club. You probably play around 4-5 rounds of golf a week in your role as CGI (Chief Golf Inspector) at Golfasian. What are your favourite courses in Asia? I try to experience, inspect and play all of courses we offer at Golfasian on a regular basis. My top three courses are Danang Golf Club in Vietnam, the Old Course at Siam Country Club in Pattaya and Black Mountain in Hua Hin. These are all top rated courses. Of the mid-tier courses I enjoy Panya Indra outside Bangkok, Rayong Green Valley near Pattaya and the Vietnam Golf and Country Club on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City. Golfasian now covers several Asian golf experiences. What do you think will be the next new destination?
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Mark At Vinpearl Golf in Vietnam has become popular in a very short time and they now have 40 courses with another 40 being constructed and another 40 licensed but yet to begin. Ten years ago the Vietnamese government stopped offering golf course licenses, however recently they had a change of heart are now encouraging developers to proceed with their golf tourism plans. For Pattaya, what hotels do you like and also any favourite restaurants to recommend? I visit Pattaya frequently and think the Intercontinental Pattaya (formerly the Sheraton), the Hilton Pattaya and Amari Ocean are the three best area hotels. You are spoilt for choice as far as restaurants but I would recommend Mantra in North Pattaya, Pan Pan in Jomtien and the Glasshouse on the beach in Na Jomtien. The latter is my “go to” restaurant whenever I have visitors and/or entertain VIP’s. What is your current golf handicap and what is your favorite club? I play off a handicap of 12 and it’s my 4-hybrid that bails me out of trouble and keeps the score down.
You organise Asia’s largest Amateur Golf Tournament. Is that one of your top achievements? Yes I am very pleased to see our efforts have paid off. We will be running our 3rd tournament again this June in Hua Hin with over 400 golf vacationers from all over the world taking part. Organized in partnership with Go Golfing from Australia and sponsored by Centara Hotels and Resorts, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and TaylorMade, we try to create a professional environment including practice rounds, authenticated scoring/leaderboards/ prizes, dedicated weeklong caddies, sponsor’s branding and signage, and all food and beverages. It’s become very popular and is the not only the biggest, but also the most fun week of golf in Asia. Finally have you got a hole in one and if so where? I have actually had four holes in one at Royal Golf and Country Club in Bangkok, Dalat Palace in Vietnam, one in Malacca, and also at Sea Pine in Hua Hin. My last hole in one was 3 years ago, so I am overdue!
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Course report Pattavia Century Golf Club
This 18 hole country golf course is owned by the mighty Chang company, and is therefore kept in excellent condition.
Par 3 13th
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10th
A
round 10kms north of Pattana and located in between Treasure Hill and Greenwood golf clubs, getting to Pattavia Century will take approximately 50 minutes from Pattaya on the 331 highway.
Handicap one here is left to their par 5 sixth, which is all about your yardage and positioning with two dry lake beds, a tree and a few strategically place bunkers to avoid. Great if you can reach the green in three here.
The course is a par 72 layout, running 7,111yards from the blue tees, but a more manageable 6,639yds from the regular white tees, allowing for some low scores.
Number 7 is a long par 3 where some of you will need a driver to reach the green, and number 8 is a dog leg par 4 with a raised green surrounded by hazardous bunkers.
Their front nine starts from a raised tee down to a sloping fairway, so on a dry day with luck your ball will roll down the hill. A fair opening par 4.
Starting on the back nine, there is a relatively harmless par 4 followed by the excellent number 11, another par 4, where you need to avoid the tree in the middle of the fairway and some tricky bunkers on the right up to another undulating green.
Hole number 3 is a fairly lengthy par 5, handy for the long hitters, and then you hit your first par 3 with an undulating green guarded by a deep bunker in front. Our group found the ball was racing past the hole, so positioning here is essential to avoid a bogey or two.
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Then you are off into the country again with a number of par 4’s and 5’s and an interesting par 3. I felt the final hole up to the clubhouse was a bit of an
ordinary hole to finish your round, but overall all of us were able to produce some worthy scores. Caddies were very knowledgably and several were fine golfers themselves. Watch out for the Pattavia Century caddies at the 2016 Caddie Championship! In the past few years they have recently opened a very minimalistic clubhouse with good locker room facilities, a well stocked proshop and a large restaurant on the top floor overlooking the 1st tee box and 18th green. Prices are reasonably and check out their packages on Tuesday’s and Friday’s. Overall it is a very pleasant jaunt around some beautiful countryside with some challenging but fair holes. We will definitely return.
Opening hole
Editors note: Need
to check out the turning off the 331 as there are no big signposts to Pattavia Century at the moment. The road is also a bit bumpy but it is worth the trip!
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Exclusive Interview
with the Owner The Phoenix Gold’s Golf & Country Club New Owner....Ms Chanya Swangchitr
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n 2013 Ms Chanya Swangchitr, took over The Pheonix Golf Club, a 27 hole golf club near Pattaya. Having re branded it to be known as The Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club, Chanya promptly announced a major investment in the property, signing agreements to upgrade the course, clubhouse, and surrounding 1,000 rai (160 hectares) of property for property development and a planned public listing. With her enthusiasm and the club’s hard working management team, Phoenix Gold has risen, with significant investment back into the course, including a comprehensive makeover that began in 2014 by master Thai course designer, Pirapon Namatra. The Mountain and Ocean nines have had upgrades of the bunkers, tee tops, fairways and drainage that has produced technical improvements, while not significantly changing the look and
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feel. By comparison, Pirapon has significantly re-routed and toughened up the shorter Lakes nine, adding new water hazards, and overhauling tee boxes and greens, making the new layout much more fun and challenging. Currently he is re designing the greens on the Ocean course, which should be ready by this Autumn. Not to rest on her laurels Ms Swangchitr has just completed the final stages of negotiating to bring a major co sanctioned European and Asian tour event to her course in 2016 as well. Therefore we decided to find out a bit more about her and her club’s future. Had you ever owned a golf club before? Chanya Swangchitr: No, I’ve never owned a golf club. My businesses are based in construction material industry. My interest in golf comes from my passion in the game.
Why did you decide out of Thailand’s 230 courses to by Phoenix Gold? CS: Pattaya is a nice location. It’s very close to Bangkok and has been renown for tourism business. In the near future, mass transportation projects such as a new motorway route and medium-speed train will be completed. Therefore, it has high potential for sports and recreation business such as golf. The club’s actual location was another factor, as it is the easiest to reach from Pattaya city, being only 15-20 minutes from the city. It has been mentioned in the local press that some Phoenix members were not happy. Can you explain and what are the future plans for new memberships? CS: At the beginning, there might have been some misunderstandings and miscommunication between the club and members. Our utmost priority was to create a happy and understanding environment. We have now shown our
commitment to improve the club and to take care our members. Most of our members now appreciate all our efforts and have returned and enjoyed the privilege the club has provided. Phoenix Gold has twenty seven holes. What have you done since you took over to improve the courses and what future plans are in place? CS: Initially, we have renovated the fairways on Mountain and Ocean courses. We have also just completed the renovation and redesign of Lake course. At present, we are renovating Tee off and green areas on Mountain and Ocean courses, which would mark a complete upgrade of Phoenix Gold Golf to become one of Thailand’s leading golf course. We have also built the new member lounge for our members in 2015. It has been a goal for the club to host major tournaments. Can you let us know what plans are likely to take place in the next six months? CS: Well I can now announce that we are proud to have been selected to host
the King’s Cup tournament on July 2731, 2016. The tournament will be a co sanctioned event with both the Asian and European tours. There will be 150 leading tour professionals from Europe, Asia as well as Thailand participating in this honorary tournament, and the tournament will be hosted at Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club for at least the next 3 years.
How often do you play golf per month? CS: I like to aim to play around 4-5 times. What are your favorite courses in Thailand? CS: Definitely, Phoenix Gold Golf! Try our course and you will agree with me.
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Joe’s 1980 Rolls Royce Silver Spirit which serves him and his pals as a golf buggy as it can carry all the golf clubs
We talk to a local golfer Joe McArdle
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his affable 68 year old Irishman from County Louth told me he spent most of his life in the motor trade in Ireland and was considering buying a home in Southern Spain, but as it was November he felt it was too cold. Change of plan and Joe booked a three week golf vacation to Pattaya and the very first round was at Jack Niklaus’s Laem Chabang course on Christmas eve 1999. Joe loved the golf and the city and decided he needed to return to experience the place not during a short holiday, but over a three-month period. Sixteen years later and he now calls Pattaya his home and has a thriving property business but still manages to fit in three rounds of golf a week, he is a member of Leam Chabang and Green Valley golf clubs and he’s the organiser weekly golf events for the Tara Court, on Pratumnak, which is part of the IPGC Group that play every, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.
to build a couple of houses in Pratamnak. Back home in Ireland at the time, the economy was booming and everyone was awash with cash, so he decided to advertise Investment homes for sale in the Irish newspapers. It worked, as he built Avoca Gardens and The Royal Beach Villas on Pratumnak and Adare Gardens 1, 2 & 3 villages’ in Jomtien. He now owns several homes and manages up to 80 properties through his company Rimtalay Homes. His priority though is still golf and he told me his top three courses were Kao Kweow the Pete Dye 27 hole set up, St Andrews and still Laem Chabang. His current handicap is 13
and although he has played the Siam Country Clubs he felt for him they were very tricky, and perhaps more suited to the professional golfer. Joe keeps a home in Ireland, where he visits occasionally, he told us he keeps a classic Rolls Royce there which he uses for picking up his mates and driving to the Mannan Castle Golf Club near by where he is still a member. Joe said he has been lucky enough to play some fabulous courses back home in Ireland, but also in America, Spain and Portugal, however he still rates Pattaya the No.1 destination! Mainly because you cannot beat the weather and the value for money, it’s golfing paradise!
After spending some time looking for something to do and not wishing to follow in the footsteps of many foreigners and open a bar, he decided
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Mannan Castle Golf course in Ireland
Joe McArdle owes a complete life change to one round of golf at Laem Chabang. If you want to know more about IPGC Group events contact Joe on, 089 249 1364
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Siam Plantation March 2016
Playing With Your Mates..... The 2016 edition of the Pattaya Amateur Golf Week was held March 6-12, 2016 with over 100 participants from 17 different countries.
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olfasian, Thailand’s largest inbound golf tour operator, partnered with Amari Hotels to produce Pattaya’s largest 5-star golf tournament for visiting club golfers. The headline sponsor, Amari Hotels, was backed by Volvik Golf, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Fenix Golf Apparel, and D’ablo Sportswear. Tournament director, Mark Penfold, said, “We are so delighted with the
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success of the event, and based on the overwhelming positive feedback from participants, we are planning for 200plus players next year. In fact, more than 50 sign-ups for next year’s event have already been received.”
participants, more Pattaya golf courses may be added next year. The event timing, in March, took advantage of the recently completed Honda LPGA and immaculate conditions at the Siam Country Club Old Course.
Siam Country Club, Plantation, Old, and Waterside courses along with Laem Chabang International Country Club were the host courses this year, and with the anticipated increase in
Richard Sydney was typical of the many participants who commented. “The whole 7-day event was memorable. Sure, the golf is the draw card, but besides the great courses I loved the
Siam Waterside tension of the competition, the social events, and making new friends. After golf was also a great opportunity to do some sightseeing, shopping and taking in the local culture. I and so hooked that I can’t wait for the next event.” A gala prize giving party at the Amari Pattaya Hotel on the Friday night saw winners, runner-ups, and lucky draw recipients win over USD 10,000 in gifts and prizes. Players from Myanmar, Australia, the Philippines, Germany and India won the ladies and men’s divisions contested during the tournament. Photos of some of the payers and the event are on the tournament website: http://www.asiagolfweek.com/ gallery/pattaya-march-2016/. The Pattaya Amateur Event was run along the lines of a professional golf competition with 5-star accommodations, a range of sponsors, event shirts and memorabilia, private caddies, USGA approved scoring, rules officiating and winner’s trophies. Men and women of all ages competed in 10+ divisions for handicaps ranging from scratch to 40+. Stableford scoring with verified handicaps was used to insure fair results.
Laem Chabang March 2016 Player’s needs were anticipated and taken care of so that the participants could concentrate on their golf games. The competition was adjudicated by impartial referees in a fair and transparent system. Tournament elements like leaderboards, uniforms and caddie bibs added uniqueness to the amateur event. This gave players the feeling that they were in a tournament that matters and
brought out their best golf. There was also an emphasis on the social side with welcome and prize giving dinners, daily happy hours and daily winner’s prizes, near pins and long drive prizes. Additional events are planned throughout 2016 and 2017 including a return event in Pattaya on October 17, 2016. For more details see www. asiagolfweek.com.
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Burapha Golf Club
Are you getting
a Fair Deal?
Golf clubs everywhere are struggling to attract customers, especially here in Thailand, with the political crisis effecting vacationers, and the high exchange rate.
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aybe it is time to be a bit more flexible when it comes to actually costing the rental, golf cart and caddie fees. Why not adopt the budget airline system and reward customers with a lower rate at certain times of the day. Let customers share a golf cart, maybe reward regulars with a free round after paying for 5 rounds in a year.
Overall can these courses justify charging these rates at a time when the Thailand Golf Industry along with the Thailand Travel Industry are seeing tour operators cancelling bookings. In Pattaya alone there have to be at least 3,000 expats who enjoy playing golf, many at retirement age, so they can fill up tee times during the week too.
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However with their pensions being pinched by the fluctuation of exchange rates, maybe it is time we started to get these regulars back on the course with a few sensible local rates. So now we have entered what is termed ‘The Low Season’, we decided to check out a few local courses here in Pattaya so see what special packages were on offer. Remember at this time of year the courses are not so busy and with a few tropical storms the fairways are often in great condition too. It’s worth noting that even if you get caught in a storm, they tend to only last for 30 minutes and with good drainage you can be back playing very quickly. Burapha Golf Club - Chonburi. A firm favorite with many expats,
this wonderful 36 hole course offers players on Wednesdays and Thursdays green fees at THB750 (normal rate THB2,200) until 27th October. Carts are THB600 and are compulsory and Caddie fee is THB350. Watch out for news of the club’s Singha Thailand Par 3 tournaments which are due to start in the summer. They are great fun and the prizes are also generous! Greenwood Golf Club - Ban Chung Chonburi. This well maintained country course with 27 holes is worth turning up after 12.00hrs weekdays, as they have a green fee, cart and caddie package of only THB1,350 or their green fees after 14.00hrs are only THB600. Laem Chabang Golf & Country Club - Chonburi. A Jack Nicklaus favorite with day and night golf
Laem Chabang Golf & Country Club available. Mountain, Valley and Lakes (floodlit) make up a very interesting golf challenge. No promotions shown on their website , but we understand that they have sports days on Tuesdays and Thursdays with Green Fee, caddie and cart for THB2,300. (Normal green fee rate is THB3,000.) Pattana Golf Resort - Chonburi. On Monday’s and Wednesday’s this 27 hole course offers a package of THB1,650 including green fee, caddie and cart. Green Fee alone is normally THB2,500 on weekdays, so this is quite a saving. They also have an excellent restaurant too.
Greenwood Golf Club
Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club Pattaya. They have 27 holes overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Soon to host the co sanctioned European and Asian Tour’s Kings Cup, this is Pattaya’s closest golf club. Currently they offer FREE GOLF CARTS every Tuesday, saving THB700 and on Monday’s their green fee is only THB1,000 (Normal rate is THB2,500). Note that their Ocean course is closed while they add new greens. Siam Country Club Old Course Pattaya. Home of the Honda LPGA Thailand these 18 holes have more tricks than a magician....enjoy their 18th hole that has seen more drama over the years than a Thai soap opera. Although not shown on their websites all three clubs do offer a special rate of THB2,900 cart, caddie and fee.
Pattana Golf Resort
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Phoenix Gold Plantation (Mondays), Old Course (Tuesdays) and Waterside (Wednesdays). St Andrews 2000 - near Rayong. This Scottish style 18 holes is fun to play and has a couple of par 6’s to challenge your score. Their sports days are on Tuesdays and Thursdays when the green fee is only THB1,000 (Normal rate is THB2,800). Sister club Rayong Green Valley has a green fee of only THB800 while Silky Oak is THB600 on the same days.
Siam Country Club Old Course
The Emerald
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The Emerald - Ban Chang. Perhaps not one of the premiere league courses in the area, but this country course close to U-Tapao airport is still a very enjoyable 18 holes. On Mondays their green fee, cart and caddie package is THB1,150 and after 14.00hrs on any week day their green fee is only THB500.Great rates and good fun too.
St Andrews 2000
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Interview With Asian Tour Chairman Player, Tour Commissioner and Course Designer.....Kyi Hla Han is certainly a jack of all trades. We recently met up with this former professional golfer from Myanmar and the current Interim Tour Commissioner Asian Tour.
54 year old Kyi Hla Han actually turned professional in 1980 and three years later recorded his first professional win at the 1983 Malaysian PGA Championship. He was one of the founding members of the Asian PGA Tour. He then played on the Asian Tour from its debut season in 1995 and in 1999 was the top money winner on the tour. In fact that year he collected his only win in an official money Asian Tour tournament at the Volvo China Open. After 10 professional wins he eventually retired as a player in 2004. That year the region’s players decided to form a new player-representative body, The Asian Tour, and Kyi Hla was duly elected to the Board of Directors.
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Two years later they appointed him as Chairman of the Asian Tour and he is given credit for having overseen the rapid growth of the tour. He has provided a guiding hand in the development of professional golf in Asia since the early 1990s Well respected and admired in the international golfing arena, Kyi Hla played globally holding cards throughout his career in Australia, Europe and the US. He is currently the tour’s interim commissioner and is busy increasing the number of tournaments for his members to play. Recently he was asked to design his first golf course in Vietnam, so
when we managed to grab this very busy commissioner, we first asked him about his new career as a course designer. ‘In fact I am a signature course designer back in Myanmar my home country near Mandalay, so this Vietnam course called Dalat 1200 is my second design .’ How did you get involved? ‘Well as a professional golfer I have travelled around the world playing on some of the best courses and it is always a dream of every professional to get into golf design....Jack Nicklaus started it now you see Norman, Faldo all the top players doing it. I said one day I would love to design one too.’
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He told us that a friend of his made a chance opportunity for him to meet these developers in Dalat, who were a Singaporean group. ‘ Then they said would I like to design them a course, so when I went to look it was 4,000 feet above sea level in the hills and it was a beautiful site. In fact they had already done nine holes and they needed the back nine created. I agreed and said I would love to take the time to do this work.’ ‘From a practical point of view I had a really good team around me, and it was probably the most fun time I ever had. It was basically just a jungle and there was a lot of imagination and creativity involved and that’s what I enjoy. I was a very creative player and here I also used my experience to create a lot of holes that need creativity and a lot of strategy too.’
He created the Asian Tour Destinations, similar to what the PGA Tour has with their TPC courses. The first destination is at Dalat 1200 and also at Sentosa in Singapore, and there will be more in the future. ‘Right now the tour needs a lot of work to create more tournaments so that is the first priority, and we would love to create events with new golf clubs and to have our Asian Tour brand.’ Late in 2015 there were a lot of rumours going around about possibly joining forces with the European Tour. ‘We have a new board in place now, we are talking to the players and we still have ongoing discussions with the European Tour to work out an ideal partnership which would still be in the benefit of
our Asian Tour members. In 2016 our tour stays as it is and we already have announced our first 6 months schedule and the second half of the season has always been traditionally busy and from September up to Christmas we are pretty much full.’ Thailand has always been a good market for the Asian Tour and the bulk of our players are Thais. ‘ Thailand is one of the top golf destinations in the World right now, so we expect to have a number of events there including the Queens Cup in Samui and the Thailand Golf Championship at Amata Springs, and right now they are looking for a permanent home for the Kings Cup.’ Could this prestigious event be moving to Pattaya? What this space.
Editor with Chairman.
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The Secret Weapon If you have played a few rounds of golf here in Thailand you will know why Thongchai Jaidee says that our Thai caddies are the secret weapon to enjoy a good round.
H
ere in Pattaya all 26 local courses have first class training schemes so that your caddie will have knowledge of the game, in most cases can speak several languages and they can read their greens like a popular paperback novel.
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Apart from working all year round to cope with the 1.6 million rounds of golf played here, at this time of year you may see several caddies out on their course playing golf too. This is because they are getting ready to take part in the 2016 Singha Amazing Thailand Caddie Championship.
Over 800 Thai caddies take part in several qualifying events around the country, all try to get one of the coveted places to compete against the top caddies from six Asian countries in the grand final in September. The girls take this event very seriously and they get the full support from their
own golf clubs as the GM’s realise that by encouraging their caddies to learn to play, it helps improve their knowledge of the game and the service they give to the golfers too. This year they will play the final at the famous Old Course at Siam Country Club, home to the Honda LPGA Thailand this year won by Lexi Thompson. Some of these caddies are very talented, so perhaps one day they may discover a true professional.
Editors note:
Worth noting that although the club will charge you a caddie fee of between THB300-400 your caddie relies on their tips at the end of each round. Suggest anything between THB300-500 if fair and maybe more if they help to lower your score!
Funny hats
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Seconds Away... ROUND 1 The 2016 edition of the Singha Amazing Thailand Caddie Championship kicked off with 140 local caddies playing at Plutaluang Navy Course. The top twenty players will go through to compete in the final along with caddies from Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea and China host on the famous LPGA course at Siam Country Clubs Old Course in September. Over 800 Thai caddies will compete at various venues across Thailand.
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Ca m bodi a
De s t i nat ion R e port T e e of f i n t h e 1 1t h C e n t u ry Only an hour’s flight from Bangkok, both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh offer a very unusual golf vacation. Currently there are only around seven golf courses in the country, dwarfed by its neighbour Thailand that has over 230 course.
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C
ambodia however is recovering from the terrible Pol Pot regime of the 70’s, and although you cannot forget the horrors of this period, there is definitely a new Cambodia arising, partly helped by the number of tourists pouring into this relatively small country. With the famous Angkor Wat temples, the largest religious monuments in the world, many are heading to the city of Siem Reap first to take in these incredible relics. That said, this small city actually boasts three very good courses, so it is also an ideal golf destination too. Perhaps the number one course in the country is Sir Nick Faldo’s Angkor Golf Club a superb and well maintained 18 hole challenge.
Although relatively flat, Faldo has made great use of some subtle elevations and includes some large bunkers, tall palm trees and water hazards to add to the fun.
and only 6 kms from the city. The course has several creeks meandering across several holes and some feature split fairways making for some risk and reward options.
Once the home of several Asian Tour events, the nearby Phokeethra Golf Club owned by the Sofitel group, features historical relics including a Roluh bridge dating back to the 11th century Kymer Empire.
Either take the bus or waterways and head down to the capital Phnom Penh, and you can enjoy four courses with the top two being the Jack Nicklaus designed Grand Phnom Penh Golf Club and the IMG managed Garden City Golf Club.
Sweeping fairways and generous undulating greens, this country layout is dominated with an impressive 90 metre snake like bunker on their finishing hole. Making up the Siem Reap golf experience is the US$150 million Siem Reap Booyoung Country Club, the largest golf complex in the area
Smart money says the best is perhaps the Garden City track which opened in April 2013, and was designed by Major General Weerayudth Phetbuasak who also created Suwan and Sea Pine in Thailand. Featureless rice paddies have been transformed into a course with many moguls, mounds and manmade hazards.
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Ankor Wat
Grand Phnom Penh Golf Club is located 20 minutes from town and has immaculate fairways, and manicured undulating greens. Nicklaus has made some significant earth moving and mounding are featured around the greens and as the course is relatively exposed especially late in the day, it can play havoc with your scorecard. We did take in the prison known as S21 where 20,000 Cambodians were tortured and died. Many also visit the Killing Fields a grim reminder that only 40 years ago over a third of the population lost their lives. It is very moving but we all agreed we needed to experience the place. Another reason to visit this region is to take a boat trip on the massive Mekong river at sunset to see some of the well known gypsies living on their small boats.
46Grand Phnom Penh Golf Club - Clubhouse
Phokeethra Club House
Angkor GC
Hole 15th at Angkor GC In our case we ended our river trip with a cool Singapore sling at the Elephant bar at Raffles Hotel Yes we all got truly raffled!!! Definitely worth returning and the good news is most restaurants and bars are around 20% cheaper than in Thailand. For assistance with booing a golf vacation check out www.golfasian.com who now have their own office in Cambodia and can book your golf or the whole trip.
Phokeethra CC
Elephant Bar at Raffles
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Garden City by IMG
New Urban Hotel in the center of Phnom Penh
During our trip to the capitol city of Cambodia, we were lucky enough to discover the new SUN & MOON, Urban Hotel right in the heart of Phnom Penh. It has a great location within walking distance of the city’s major landmarks, tourist attractions and nightlife, and a few hundred meters from the eclectic riverside. This 4 star hotel has been created to give guests a 5 star service, and all the team members under the leadership of Swiss General Manager Noel Furrer, work and deliver in a very friendly and professional way to achieve this. The hotel comprises 80 guest rooms including 12 suites and one apartment. Our Deluxe Rooms had a very modern chic look, featuring a comfortable king size bed amidst contemporary furnishings and pop art décor. The room is also equipped with a refreshing shower, good aircon, a large flat screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, a mini fridge, hairdryer and personal safe. For the busy one of you, they provide high speed internet access in every corner of the building. Their Suite Rooms offer guests 97m2 with balconies too with stunning view over Phnom Penh. The facilities are never ending, very clean and well maintained and include their large spa with free steam, sauna and hot and cold Jacuzzis for guests, a fully equipped fitness centre with a 180C view to the Phnom Penh Palace, What Phnom and Central market, a very cool UNPLUG bar and an executive lounge called #8 VIP LOUNGE with live entertainment and Karaoke facilities, plus their excellent SALT n’ PEPPER, GASTROPUB with an open show kitchen offering a healthy balance of local and international food and drinks. If you are into your pools, this hotels large infinity salt water
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pool has great views of the city and benefits from some cool breezes too. We have left the best to last though, as you will definitely enjoy Cloud 9, Skybar, hotel’s rooftop bar with its cool changing rooftop LED lights, a great sound system playing deep vocal house and some very creative cocktail sans snacks. Oh and not to forget the spectacular views over the sparkling lights of Phnom Penh city. A true inspiration!
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Online
Summer Rates....
With the low season now up on us, we decided to go online to check out the best weekday rates on offer at several well known courses around Thailand.
Red Mountain Phuket
N
aturally some courses offer promotions and sports days, so for this mini survey all the rates shown were for a Tuesday tee time for 18 holes for visitors. Most if not all of these courses offer some spectacular golf in some stunning scenery, and would certainly make the top twenty out of the 240 courses dotted around Thailand. Obviously these shown could be described as Premiere League golf clubs, so if these rates are a bit high then I am sure you will find many of the country tracks offering lower packages. Also during the low season you can take advantage of the various golf festivals such as the popular Hau Hin Festival running
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for most of August and September, when nearly all the courses lower their rates.
*Best all in rate THB4,100 conditions after 14.00hrs.
Naturally you can always call ahead 24 hours before and sometime haggle for a better rate, but as most of us do check courses on line, here are our findings..... let us know if you managed to get a better visitor rate.
2.Riverdale Golf Club - Bangkok The USA Golf Digest course editor rated this one of his best in Asia. Same designer as Phuket’s Red Mountain, this is a very clever golf challenge that will not disappoint.
1. Red Mountain Golf Club - Phuket A “Wow” factor 18 holes where the elevation changes in this disused tin mine, mean golf carts are not only compulsory but essential. It is expensive, however the conditions are superb. April regular green fee THB5,000 Promotion at 06.30 or 13.30 THB4,200 After 14.00hrs THB3,000, Cart THB700 and Caddie THB400
April regular green fee THB3,750 No discounts or promotions shown Cart THB800 and Caddie THB400 *Best all in rate THB4,950 3. Banyan Golf Resort - Hua Hin The club’s trophy cabinet is heaving with awards and these 18 holes are a pleasure to play through some beautiful unspoilt countryside. Check out Mulligan’s Bar afterwards!
Banyan Golf Resort
April green fee THB2,800 or after 3pm THB1,300 Cart THB750 (with GPS) and Caddie THB300 *Best all in rate THB3,850 or THB2,350 after 3pm (carts are optional here) 4. Chiang Mai Highlands - Chiang Mai Always delivers 5 star golf here, played in the valley and on a mountainside with elevations, mist, bunkers galore and some incredible scenery. A great experience! Rates Thailand Residents Morning - 2,500 THB includes Green fee, Caddy and Cart After 1PM - 1,900 THB includes Green fee, Caddy and Cart
Riverdale Golf Club
International Visitors Morning - 3,500 THB includes Green fee, Caddy and Cart After 1PM - 2,900 THB includes Green fee, Caddy and Cart *Best rate THB1,900 for expats or THB2,900 for visitors if you play in the afternoon. 5. Mountain Creek Golf Resort - Korat/ Kao Yai Seve Ballesteros’s last collaboration. Here they have recently tweaked the 27 holes to make it a real fun place to stay and play with some wonderful holes in stunning surroundings. The clubhouse is modern and has a great restaurant too.
Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort
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Mountain Creek Green fee weekdays is THB1,500 plus caddie fee THB350 and carts THB600. Note they do offer a package here for THB6,600 which includes 27 holes, dinner and a nights stay in a villa. *Best rate THB2,450. 6. Nikanti Golf Club - SW Bangkok The country’s first 6 x 3 hole courses where you can play 12 or 18 holes. Same designer as Banyan and Waterside, a very classy act South West of the capital. They offer an all in package during weekdays at THB4,500 to include green fee, cart and caddie. * Best rate THB4,500 but this also includes complimentary meals, before, during and after your round. 7. Thai Country Club - Bangkok The doyen of golf in the capital, owned and run by the Peninsula hotel group. A very classy clubhouse and interesting 18 holes. Well worth the trip. Visitors Green Fee weekdays THB3,650 plus Caddie THB400 and Cart THB888. *They do not offer any promotions here. Best rate is THB4,938. 8. Black Mountain - Hua Hin One of the top courses in Thailand and home to the European Tours True Thailand Classic. Quite hilly but carts here are not compulsory. Popular club so better call ahead for a good tee time. Afternoons here can be windy!
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Nikanti Golf Club Walk in rates for May are THB2,600 green fee and caddie THB350 and cart THB750. *Best rate without cart is THB2,950. 9. Blue Canyon - Phuket Two courses with most wanting to follow in the footsteps of Tiger Woods or Ernie Els to experience the tough Canyon Course which hosted the Jonnie Walker events in the 90’s. Lakes Course THB4,800 Green fee or Canyon Course THB5,600 Green fee for visitors. Carts are THB750 and caddie fees THB350. *Best rate is to play their Lakes course walking at THB5,150.
10. Grand Prix Golf Club - Kanchanaburi Any incredible 18 holes sponsored by the motor industry, with 50 metre elevations and stunning scenery. It can be quiet hot here in the summer, so best to either stay at their modern hotel and tee off early or start late and enjoy the sunsets. Summer package is THB2,100 for green fee, caddie and cart for visitors. Best book ahead. 11. Santiburi Koh Samui - Samui Quite a tight layout with tight fairways, valley’s, plus views across the islands with some difficult but memorable par 3’s.. Home to the Asian Tour’s Queens Cup and enjoyed by tourists and professionals alike. Many Kodak moments here!
PHOENIX GOLD
GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Special Promotions April - November 2016
MONDAY SPECIALS Green Fee 1,000THB (18Hole)
FREE CART EVERY TUESDAY (18Hole)
SPECIAL GREEN FEE FOR GROUP (18Hole) WED,THU,FRI : 3,500THB WEEKEND : 7,000THB
BOOK NOW!! SUNDAY SPECIALS AFTER 12.00pm. 2,000THB INClude GREEN FEE,CADDY,CART (18Hole)
TWILIGHT PROMOTION AFTER 3.00pm.
+66(0)84 873 5363 +66(0)92 225 8449
GREEN FEE 600THB (18Hole)
*Packages cannot be combined with any other offers
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
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Weekdays Green fee THB4,000, Cart THB750 and Caddy THB300. Total THB5,050. * Best rate is Green Fee THB3,000 if you stay at their Santiburi Resort. 12. Lam Luk Ka Country Club - North East of Bangkok A beautiful peaceful country club with East and West courses offering 36 holes. We preferred their West course which is in great condition. Wildlife and mature trees are the order of the day here. Weekdays Green Fee THB1,800 plus Caddie THB350 and Cart THB700. *Best rate THB2,850
Santiburi Samui
Black Mountain
Blue Canyon Lakes Course
Thai Country Club
Lam Luk Ka West Course
Editors Notes:
These rates were quoted to us by checking on line or in some cases calling direct. We suggest that you should always call ahead to check their rates and do ask if they have any specials that week. ENJOY! Grand Prix Golf Club
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Sorapoj Techakraisri, Chief Executive Officer of PACE Development Corporation Plc.
PACE BOOST FOR MENA GOLF TOUR’ Mahasamutr Masters in Thailand
Leader in luxury property and hospitality to sponsor inaugural event at Banyan
T
he Thailand leg of the MENA Golf Tour has received a major boost with PACE Development Corporation Plc. coming on board as the main sponsor of the inaugural MahaSamutr Masters to be held at Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin from May 17 to 19.
As an established and leading player in the field of luxury property and hospitality in Thailand, PACE’s foray into golf sponsorship underlines their commitment to further cement the kingdom’s credentials as a world-class leisure, sporting and business hub. “We are delighted to be associated with a premier MENA Golf Tour event
that will feature a quality international field and drive in-bound tourism to Thailand, making it a perfect fit for our customer base which is premier and highly international,” said Sorapoj Techakraisri, CEO of PACE.
one golf destination in Asia, Thailand is well on course to unleash a big drive because you just don’t just get great golf there, you experience nature in its pristine form.
“We consider corporate investment in the growth and development of golf in Thailand to be both a duty and a privilege. Accordingly, we take pride in supporting events that showcase and promote both Thailand and PACE across the world,” he added.
“We would also like to acknowledge the MENA Golf Tour for all their hard work in putting together the event at Banyan Golf Club and, last but not least, the players who have signed up the tour event, aiming to break through onto the bigger stage. We wish them the very best,” he added.
Calling the MahaSamutr Masters a welcome addition to the country’s growing portfolio of world-class events, Mr Techakraisri said: “As the number
Lauding the PACE support, Mohamed Juma Buamaim, chairman of the MENA Tour, said. “It’s great to see a well-recognised and quality brand such
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as PACE offer their support to the tour event which will send out positive signals to the golfing community about the strides being made by the tour in putting the region on the sporting map. “With Thailand leading the way, Asia is destined to become a superpower in golf and it made perfect sense for us to get involved with this huge market. I hope the partnership will grow with time and enable the future development of players in addition to further raising the profile of the game in this part of the world.” An initiative of the Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation, the MENA Golf Tour was created in 2011 with the aim of developing golf in the region. It is affiliated to R&A, the worldwide golf governing body based in the home of golf, St Andrews, and the Arab Golf Federation. The expanded schedule of the 2016 season, which will have 19 events, will see the MENA Golf Tour travel to new destinations in Kuwait, Egypt, Spain, Thailand and South Africa in a sign of its growing strength on the global stage.
About MahaSamutr MahaSamutr is Thailand’s Private Country Club and Luxury Villas development, located in the seaside resort town, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province on more than 130 rais or 51.4 acres of land. MahaSamutr Country Club also features Asia’s largest man-made lagoon and beach using cutting edge technology from Crystal Lagoons to bring members and villa owners the sea and beach ambience in a safe controlled environment. MahaSamutr is set to become a new landmark in the popular resort town of Hua Hin, uplifting the destination’s high-end real-estate and service industries to a new level of luxury. About PACE Development Corporation Plc. PACE Development Corporation Plc is Thailand’s high-end property developer and lifestyle provider that is committed to provide customers a lifestyle by offering highest quality standards, innovative design and prime location residences. PACE also owns the world’s most iconic gourmet food and beverage brand, DEAN & DELUCA. The company is led by a dynamic management team with a strong background in property development and retail.
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I
mported from Japan, the latest RX, from Toyota’s upmarket brand has priced its mid-size SUV to compete with the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. Prices start around 4 million baht. Unlike its two German opponents, Lexus is staying away from noisy diesel engines and is sticking with the traditional petrol versions in all international markets.
The most important model for Lexus is Thailand luxury car market will be the 238hp RX200t, which has 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol-turbo and six-speed automatic. It replaces the outgoing 185hp RX270 which had a 2.7-litre normally aspirated motor. The RX200t comes in three trims versions: The FWD Luxury priced at 3.999 million baht, the GWD Premium at 4.49 million baht and 4WD F-Sport at 5.09 million baht. For those with bigger wallets the RX350 and RX450h, both with 4WD, will satisfy drivers who want more performance and technology. The 300hp RX350 has a 3.5-litre V6 with eight-speed automatic. It’s available in only the sharp looking F-Sport and costs 6.8 million baht.
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The 313hp hybrid version of this V6 powerhouse has the same two-electric motor setup coupled with an electronic CVT automatic transmission. It retails for 7.6 million Baht. Highlights of the new RX include sharper design on the outside and smooth looking revamped interior, brimming with the usual bounty of Lexus luxury. Lexus has included more driver-assist technologies, including the option of adaptive suspension available in the F-Sport package to stand out against its two german rivals.
RX comes in front wheel drive and 4x4 versions 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol-turbo, 6 speed automatic 3.5-litre V6, 8 speed automatic and hybrid V6, with CVT automatic. Price in Thailand will range from 3.99 to 7.6 million Baht
Sergio’s very special place
Enjoy the exquisite view of the best beach in Pattaya, while wxperiencing our amazing Italian cuisine, indulge in our delightful wines, & ice cold beers. Take a table in the restaurant or sunbeds on the beach.
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Dine like a Godfather!
If you cr ave for some excellent authentic Italian cuisine, then look no further than the Gr and Hotel at the Royal Cliff.
R
ossini is the hotel’s definitive “Ristorante Italiano” and under the watchful eye of Italian maestro Chef Massimo Gullotta, they serve authentic Italian regional cuisine and homemade pasta specialties with such fine taste that it is the most talked about restaurant in Pattaya. Chef Massimo will mesmerize all diners with his authentic style menus.
You can start by ordering Parma ham and melon or some of their signature Salads. There is a comprehensive a la carte menu and specials range from Sautéed Swordfish to a giant 600gsm Ausi Tomahawk Steak Florentina. If you prefer the basics, then check out their thin and crispy pizzas cooked in the restaurant’s own oven! Their wine list is extensive, and in 2015 Rossini was named as having one of the most outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world by the Wine Spectator from New York.
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Water Menu
However if you are worried about drink driving, fear not as Rossini has one of the largest selection of still or sparkling water, with over 50 different choices in a special water menu....really cool! Live music, stunning environment, exquisite interior and over 900 fabulous wine labels make this a premier dining choice. You really can dine like a Godfather! Rossini is open 18.30-22.30hrs daily except on Wednesday when it is closed. For reservations call +66 38 250 421 Ext: 2037 Chef Massimo
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Relaxing
retreat with a view
Divinity Villa is a luxurious 5 star Thai-Bali styled residence located directly on the beach, with specttacular ocean views, manicured grounds, walkways, outside dining and entertainment areas around a state of the art swimming pool.
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Rock bands and movie stars, make a note, this 6 bedrooms villa is the perfect party venue, with direct beach access at NaJomtien, so a yacht owners can anchor off shore in front of the villa. Quiet and secluded, yet close to Pattaya City and near the lovely fishing villages of Ban Amphur and Bang Saray. For the wealthy wanna-be owners, this dream property is available for sale, but for those who prefer to be lords of all they survey for a few months, a couple of weeks or for just a few days, this incredible experience can be rented. For more information contact the Agent +66 (0)38-301-388 +66 (0)949-136-855
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The horns of a dilemna There has, and probably never will be, a foolproof, one size fits all, answer to the dilemma of trying to produce a decent return on savings with minimal, or no risk. The idea that a host of risk free opportunities exist out there that will continually churn out never ending high returns, with no downturns, is a myth.
T
he conundrum is this; in order to achieve worthwhile results money has to be placed in asset backed investments of some sort. These come in assorted colours but all have issues generally connected with risk and/or liquidity. Let’s take some of the ‘Hard Asset’ Funds that performed well throughout the ‘Great Recession’. By ‘hard asset’, we mean funds that hold tangible holdings, such as property. As a strategy, they are likely to invest up to 90% of the Fund in their Asset Class because, as for everyone else, ‘cash’ does not perform, so the more invested, the more likely they are to achieve a better return. This is fine until, for whatever reason, redemptions exceed subscriptions over a prolonged period, leading to a liquidity problem i.e. they have to sell prime assets under forced conditions – not ideal. The fact that a particular Fund finds itself in this position does not mean that the investments it holds are now worth less than they were previously. Excess redemptions occur for a number of possible reasons but often, in part, because investors are used to seeing a steady notch up of their Fund value every month with such Funds, combined with the whole ‘short termism’ thinking
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By Tim Whiteley today, often brought about by 24/7 access to fund values, brings some to the conclusion that the first time the yields slips, it’s time to get out. This short term view is crippling for most investments that aren’t in the Bank. Were Banks offering worthwhile returns on deposits, they might be an attractive option but, in today’s low interest environment, the rates they are paying are either dreadfully low or, in some cases, a minus figure. Alternatively, the World’s Stock Markets beckon and if you buy and sell the right stock at the right time, you can achieve significant results but most investors miss the boat and tend to buy at a ‘high’ and sell at a ‘low’, largely because of their lack of experience in the Markets. If you go back just a decade, or even two, you would see that those who generally made money on the Markets were investors who bought ‘blue chip’ stock and held them for the long term. This is largely what Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway does, albeit on a much grander scale than almost everyone else. As with most things, a spread of Investments is desirable but not diversification for its own sake. A mix of well selected, different Asset Classes
often available through Professionally Managed Funds, provides balance and reduces risk. Also, when deciding on your holdings, consideration should be given as to whether Capital Growth or Income is the main objective. Clearly, both are desirable but there is usually an emphasis for one over the other. 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. 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: info@ifainternationalgroup.com
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TO BANGKOK
TO CHACHOENGSAO
314 7 34 315
3 AMATA SPRING C.C.
CHONBURI
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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
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SIAM C.C. 14 OLD COURSE
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ASIA PATTAYA HOTEL
Siam Royal View
PARICHAT INTERNATIONAL GOLF LINKS
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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
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COURSE DIRECTORY
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website: www.bangpragolf.co.th Email: tiwa@bangpragolf.co.th Tel: +66 (0) 38 341149-50
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Tel: +66 (0) 38 349 370-4
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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.
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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.
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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
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www.gwgolfclub.com Tel: +66 38 263 158-9
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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.
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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.
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COURSE DIRECTORY
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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
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Mountain Shadow Golf Club Address : 159/1 Moo 2 Saensuk Rd. Muang Chonburi 20130 Tel : +66 38 393 019
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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COURSE DIRECTORY
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www.pattaviagolf.com Tel: +66 (0) 81-304 1545
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www.standrews2000golf.com Email : golfing@standrews2000golf.com Tel : 081-940818, 038-030660-2
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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.
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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.
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COURSE DIRECTORY
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www.plutaluangnavygolfcourse.com Telephone: +66 (0) 80 209 9175, +66 (0) 81 003 3811, +66(0) 33 679 932-3
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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.
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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
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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.
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COURSE DIRECTORY
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www.treasurehill.co.th Tel : 038-420-766, 081-344-8002, 02-295-0856 Fax. 02. -295-0857
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Tel : 038 250401-11 www.asiahotel.co.th/asia_pattaya.htm
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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.
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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.
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COURSE DIRECTORY
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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.
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www.pleasantvalley-golf.com Tel: 081-4105522, 085-0454050
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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.
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www.standrews2000golf.com Tel: (+66 )38-030660-2
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www.wangjuntrgolf.com
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COURSE DIRECTORY
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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.
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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