Dear Members,
I trust this message finds each of you in good spirits.
I would like to start by extending my heartfelt congratulations to the winner of the 2024 HSBC Women's World Championship, Hannah Green, who showcased exceptional skill and determination to overcome a world-class field across our very own Tanjong course.
The event was a tremendous success, and we commend all participants including one our sponsored amateurs 16-year-old Xin Tong for their outstanding performance. It is the spirit and excellence demonstrated by these golfers that make events like these truly memorable.
As we reflect on the success of the HSBC Women's World Championship, I extend my sincere gratitude to the sponsors, our dedicated staff and organisers for their invaluable support and assistance during the event. Their unwavering commitment and hard work were instrumental in the success of this world class event at Sentosa Golf Club.
I would also like to give acknowledgment to our Agronomy team, led by General Manager & Director of Agronomy, Andrew Johnston, as well as Golf Course Superintendent Rodney Mckeown, for their relentless dedication that ensured the impeccable conditioning of The Tanjong, adding an extra layer of brilliance to the championship.
In the wake of the Chinese New Year festivities and celebration, I would like to express my gratitude to all our Members for their generous contribution to the staff Ang Pow. Your generosity has made a significant impact to our staff. It is this form of
camaraderie and generosity that makes Sentosa Golf Club unlike any other club.
May I also thank Members who participated in the recent Chinese New Year game where we launched Sentosa Golf Club's 50th anniversary celebrations. Continuing on from this, please mark your calendars for the 50th anniversary Members' Golf Day scheduled to take place on Saturday 5 October. Members will also have the opportunity to redeem a recyclable bag and an exclusive SGC 50th Anniversary bag tag, both of which align with our Sustainable Blueprint. This eco-friendly offering is our way of expressing gratitude for your continued support and is a tangible symbol of our commitment to a greener future. Please join us in making a positive impact while celebrating the 50th anniversary of Sentosa Golf Club. Looking ahead, the Club is excited for the return of LIV Golf Singapore to The Serapong in May. Save the date and stay tuned for more details as we get ready to welcome the world’s best golfers back to Singapore for what promises to be another exceptional event, bringing innovation and excitement to the world of golf.
Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to Sentosa Golf Club. Your participation in events, hospitality, and enthusiasm contribute to the vibrant and thriving community we cherish.
Wishing you and your families happiness, and here's to many more years of remarkable golfing experiences across our extraordinary courses.
Sincerely,
Andrew M Lim President
When reflecting on the remarkable journey of Walt Disney, one cannot help but be awestruck by his visionary mindset, unparalleled success and the enduring empire that he built. While the iconic Disney brand is globally recognized today, many are unaware of the tumultuous path Disney navigated on his road to greatness.
As a young man, Disney faced numerous setbacks, including being fired from a local newspaper because of his perceived lack of creativity. His subsequent venture into the animation industry resulted in failure, leaving him struggling to make ends meet. He resorted to eating dog food simply to survive.
With resilience and determination as his compass and a few dollars to his name, Disney embarked on a journey to Hollywood fervently chasing his dream of making it big. However, his initial foray into Hollywood proved just as challenging, marked by constant rejection and scepticism towards his ground breaking creation, Mickey Mouse. In spite of all the odds stacked against him, Disney remained steadfast in his pursuit of success.
Through unwavering perseverance, Disney defied expectations and transformed his aspirations into reality, propelling his company to unprecedented heights. From the inception of the beloved amusement parks today, to the production of timeless feature films, Disney's legacy transcends mere entertainment; it stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the indomitable human spirit.
Reflecting on Sentosa Golf Club’s past 50 years, and particularly the recent 11th edition of the HSBC Women’s World Championship, the theme of perseverance resonates profoundly within me.
Amidst the many challenges faced by the Agronomy team, battling fierce winds and clearing debris, their tireless efforts epitomize the spirit of perseverance.
Despite the arduous task at hand, the men and women of Sentosa Golf Club dedicated every waking hour to meticulously preparing both golf courses, The Tanjong for the tournament and The Serapong for Members’ play, embodying the essence of resilience in the face of adversity.
Similarly, Hannah Green's tenacity on The Tanjong mirrored the ethos of perseverance. Despite hitting only a handful of fairways on Sunday, her unwavering determination and strategic approach paved the way for victory. In every corner, triumph was evident, a testament to the unwavering resolve of both the team and all the players.
Just as Walt Disney's perseverance paved the way for his monumental success, the collective determination of our team enables us to craft a dynamic platform for Champions like Hannah Green to shine. As we celebrate our golden jubilee year, we remain steadfast in our commitment to persevere, echoing Disney's enduring vision to entertain, inform, and inspire audiences worldwide through the power of golf and our story.
Best Regards,
Andrew Johnston General Manager / Director of Agronomy / Resident Golf Course Designer1.
4 sentosagolfclub @sentosagolfclub @sentosagolfclub SentosaGolfClub SENTOSA GOLF CLUB MAGAZINE
3.
SGC President, Andrew Lim, looks back at another wonderful edition of the HSBC Women’s World Championship, as well as upcoming plans for our 50th anniversary…
SGC General Manager, Andrew Johnston, discusses the collective unity of the team to create a dynamic platform for the world’s best to shine on…
LONG SERVICE AWARDS
The Club honours staff that have reached a milestone achievement in their journey with Sentosa Golf Club…
GENERAL GOLF AND MEMBER NEWS
Discover the latest news from the Club including the Ang Pow game, LIV Golf Singapore tickets, and further plans during our 50th anniversary…
HSBC WOMEN’S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
A review of this year’s event, showcasing all the drama as our newest Champion was crowned on the final hole…
15.
Mollie Marcoux Samaan, LPGA Commissioner, discusses what makes Singapore one of the most loved destinations on the LPGA Tour schedule…
22-23.
A breakdown of the best drivers in the game and how they are suitable for players of differing abilities…
24. MCI (P) 049/12/2022 To advertise in SENTOSA GOLF CLUB, please call 6275 0090.
The Clubhouse and 18th hole on The Tanjong ready for the 2024 HSBC Women's World Championship
Sentosa Golf Club extends its heartfelt congratulations to several of our staff who have achieved significant milestones this year in their dedicated service to the Club. 40 YEARS
Each of the esteemed staff members being recognised has been a constant presence at the Club for a remarkable tenure ranging from 5 to 40 years. Their enduring passion, loyalty, and dedication to their roles are truly commendable. We express our gratitude for the exceptional contributions made by each individual, spanning various departments such as Agronomy, F&B and Golfing, contributing to the continuous elevation of the Club’s standards year after year.
As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we take pride in exemplifying exceptional hospitality and service. The Club remains committed to maintaining these standards in the years ahead and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to recognize and honour our next set of staff in upcoming editions. 40
15 YEARS
15 YEARS
15 YEARS
15 YEARS
5
Carlos Ortiz landed the first of this year’s International Series events when he fired a closing 65 in Oman. The Mexican star beat Louis Oosthuizen by four while his Torque GC captain Joaquin Niemann was third and fellow team-mate Mito Pereira shared fourth at Al Mouj Golf. Ortiz bizarrely double-bogeyed his first hole of the week but then didn't drop a shot in the remaining 71 holes as he finished the four rounds on 19-under.
Joaquin Niemann continued his fine run of form with a four-shot win over the South African duo of Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel at LIV Golf Jeddah. The 25-year-old Chilean, who also captured the Australian Open in December, followed up his playoff triumph at Mayakoba with a resounding victory in Saudi. The event also caught the global headlines as Anthony Kim returned to action after 12 years away from tournament golf.
The GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation has unveiled new additions to its platform to help broaden awareness and value to golf clubs everywhere. Sentosa, a GEO Certified facility, will now be able to sign up to the Sustainable Golf Pledge which presents a clear and positive purpose to staff, committees, members, visitors, and local communities. By signing up clubs receive a downloadable certificate to promote as well as a position on the Sustainable Golf Leaderboard which shows the club's sustainable journey.
Andrew 'Beef' Johnston has signed up as an ambassador for the UK's leading golf retailer, American Golf. Johnston, who spent a few months at Sentosa while recovering from wrist surgery last year, will participate in a number of initiatives to help their customers get more from the game. There will be shared tips, sponsored clothing and, in July, American Golf will be the headline sponsor of Beef Stock, a day-long festival of the game with masterclasses and an 18-hole tournament.
Get ready for an exciting year filled with programs as Sentosa Golf Club commemorates its 50th anniversary!
Mark your calendars for our Members' Golf Day scheduled for October. Keep your eyes peeled for activities and indulge in delightful delicacies prepared by Executive Chef KK.
Have you noticed our special 50-cent dish that changes monthly? These bite-sized delights perfectly complement your main course.
Take advantage of our exclusive offers, including Sentosa Golf Club Wine priced at $50* and a Limited-Edition Loch Lomond 18 Years Single Malt Scotch Whisky at $288.
In alignment with our Sustainable Blueprint, we are committed to reducing plastic usage. Members can redeem a recyclable bag and an SGC 50th Anniversary bag tag from the Golfing Reception. This will be made applicable to all Principal and Spouse Members, with one of each item redeemable.
NEW MEMBERS FOR THE MONTHS OF DECEMBER '23 & JANUARY '24
ORDINARY MEMBER
Mdm Cui Chengcheng
Mdm Yeow Lisa Jane
Mr Yuan Xionggui
Mrs Facey Anna Satsuki
Ms Lee Janice Yuan Rong
CORPORATE NOMINEE
Mdm Wu May San
Mr Bernard Chan Kim Hock
Mr Eythan Goh Yi Jin
Mr Hiroshige Baba
Mr Ho Pock Woon Eugene
Mr Isamu Yoza
Mr Keisuke Tamura
Mr Tadashi Ishizuka
TERM MEMBER
Mr Ahn Tae Euin
Mr Atsuya Kono
Mr Daisuke Shinohara
Mr Hisaki Endo
Stay tuned for more exciting '50' series events!
Mr Huynh Phong Thanh
Mr Hwang Young Sam
Mr Jun Okawara
Mr Matthew Garth Jackson
Mr Satoshi Nakamura
Mr Shin Seung Chul
Mr Yasuhiro Kubota
Mr Yoichiro Tsu
Mr Yuichi Nishimura
Ms Teo Yuen Ting Yuki
The Medal of Medals event took place on 20 January at the prestigious Serapong Course, where we celebrated the victorious achievements of Mdm Kim Haengjin and Mr. Desmond Liew as our esteemed winners.
It’s not long now until we welcome the world’s best players to Sentosa for another instalment of LIV Golf Singapore – and you still have a chance to buy your tickets and secure your spot at the event. This year’s tournament will take place on The Serapong on May 3-5, and there are several ticket options available, including exclusive hospitality packages. Whether you’re looking for a spring getaway, a new experience for client entertainment or simply the chance to watch elite golf up close, there are plenty of different ways to enjoy this year’s tournament, from a Ground Pass to a LIV Premium All-Access Hospitality experience. To find out more and make a booking, visit livgolf.com/events/ singapore-2024 or email tickets@livgolf.com
Attlee Hue Kuan Yew
21 Dec 2023
The Tanjong
Hole 4, 130 metres
Yeo Wee Kiong
3 Jan 2024
The Serapong
Hole 8, 159 metres
Louis Fel
7 Feb 2024
The Serapong
Hole 15, 169 metres
(Seated from left to right): Dr Richard Ng, Mdm Jang Sang Yi, Mr. Kim Ki Bong, (Standing from left to right): Grace Lian (Top black), Desmond Liew, Mrs. Liew and their daughter, Ryan Lee (White), Anna Lee and Lau See Hian (Standing) Lady Captain Mrs Gloria and 2024 Ladies Captain Cup winner Mdm Kim Haengjin SGC General Manager Andy Johnston with the 2024 Captain Cup winner Mr Desmond Liew
A spectacular gathering of 143 golfers, all adorned in vibrant red attire, graced the fairways for an unforgettable round of golf on 18 Feb for the Ang Pow Game. As tradition dictates, red holds a special significance during Chinese New Year, symbolizing luck, prosperity, and warding off evil spirits. Embracing this auspicious color, our golfers painted the course in a sea of crimson, igniting the atmosphere with good fortune and joy.
As the day transitioned into evening, the enchantment continued as our elegant ladies adorned themselves in stunning cheongsams and the men in an array of vibrant red hues, adding an extra layer of elegance and cultural richness to the festivities. We are grateful to Everise and Bespresso Pte Ltd for their generous contribution to the Ang Pow Game.
143 golfers rolling into a year of prosperity and good luck.
SGC President Andrew Lim, Chairman Bob Tan with his two grandkids, SGC Captain and Lady Captain; Darryl Wee and Gloria Kuok.
Three years ago, Hannah Green would three-putt the closing two holes to let in a fast-finishing Hyo Joo Kim, this time around the Australian would enjoy a very different finish at this year’s HSBC Women’s World Championship.
The 27-year-old, who would marry fellow golfer Jarryd Felton in January, would birdie the final three holes to write her name into the history books of Asia’s Major with her sensational finish over The Tanjong.
The grandstand climax began at the 16th where Green would produce a two-putt birdie, the second from as much as five feet, before a wedge at the 17th left her 12 feet for a sixth birdie of the day. At the 18th, with Celine Boutier in the clubhouse at 12-under, Green would roll in a putt from 27 feet which was enjoyed almost as much by her playing partner Andrea Lee.
The Australian, whose first win on the LPGA Tour came in a Major at the Women’s PGA Championship in 2019, claimed her fourth victory in slightly unusual circumstances. She would hit the fewest amount of fairways all week (28/56) though she still managed to feature near the top of the greens in regulation stats – she would only miss two greens on the Sunday.
On day one there were no birdies in an ordinary 74 in the first group out but three straight rounds of 67 were good enough for the iconic win, as well as a place back in the world’s top 20.
"I've always loved coming to Singapore – 2021 was my first year and I almost won so it's a place that I really enjoy coming to. The food is great, and the golf is great, and it feels great to have this trophy in my hands."
Since HSBC took over the title sponsorship in 2008 all bar two of the winners have been Major Champions
and Green was only too aware of the grand scale of the championship.
"Like they say it really is Asia’s Major! Sentosa do a great job preparing the course. HSBC hosting, making sure the players have everything they need, it makes a big difference when we get to play, and it makes us want to return to the event even more and make sure that we are in the top 60 and be able to come back again.
"I remember when Celine was in a playoff in Malaysia for nine holes, we didn't have a forecast for nine holes, nor would I want to play a nine-hole playoff. To see the putt go in straightaway was a surprise but also happy. It's great."
For much of the back nine on Sunday it looked like Boutier would be adding her fifth win on the LPGA Tour in less than a year, then, at worst for the Solheim Cup star, extra holes seemed on the cards after she holed a nervy five-footer on the 72nd hole. The Frenchwoman,
who had the low round of the week, and second-round 64 on her dad's birthday, signed for a bogey-free 67 but, in the end, it wasn't to be for the World No. 3.
We came into the week with Jin Young Ko going for an unprecedented hat-trick of wins, no other player has defended their title around The Tanjong, but the Korean would come up six shots shy. Ko commented after her third-round 66 that she would consider buying a house in Singapore if she did make it three on the trot but too many bogeys would eventually cost her.
Ayaka Furue was third here in 2023 and the Japanese 23-year-old went into the final round with a two-shot lead before things unravelled right at the end on Sunday. The diminutive eight-time winner on her home tour barely missed a fairway, or a putt, for the first three days but she would post two bogeys and a double in her last four holes to eventually finish in a tie for eighth.
"I've always loved coming to Singapore –2021 was my first year and I almost won so it's a place that I really enjoy coming to. The food is great, and the golf is great, and it feels great to have this trophy in my hands."
Hannah Green
Celine Boutier finished in solo second, finishing one shot behind Hannah Green
Hannah Green celebrating after sinking a birdie on the 18th to win the HSBC Women's World Championship
Japan's Ayaka Furue led the field after the third round
Hannah Green celebrating her HSBC Women's World Championship win
Local hope Chen Xing Tong had an unforgettable week on top of qualifying for one of the premier weeks on the golfing calendar at the age of just 15. On day one the teenager was paired with the first-round leader Sarah Schmelzel while Chen's opening 76 left her on the same mark as the pretournament favourite Lydia Ko and, better still, in the same group as the New Zealander on the Friday.
The Singaporean would reach the turn in 42 strokes on day one before turning it round brilliantly with three birdies on her back nine.
"It was unreal on the first tee because I was so nervous. It didn’t seem it but when I was on the first green, my hands were shaking over the putt. I didn't have a good first nine, but I was able to calm myself down and recover a bit. I was like, these are pros, you don't have anything to stress about because you're the amateur in the field. I couldn't believe that so many people just came out and watched me," the 15-year-old said.
And Chen was able to tap into a clinic with Annika Sorenstam to help calm her nerves.
"Annika was telling me just stick to my process and trust, and also have fun on the course, which I think I managed to do on the last few holes. She's just so calm about everything. It's unreal, being with a living legend. I was so scared to meet her, but I felt like this wasn't that bad, so it calmed me down a bit more."
No
No
64
Annika Sörenstam and Chen Xing Tong the Singapore junior clinic Sarah Schmelzel during the first round of the HSBC Women's World Championship 2024 Photo Credits: IMG / Getty ImagesThe HSBC Women’s World Championship is a special week on the LPGA Tour.
Sentosa Golf Club is consistently ranked as one of the best golf clubs in the world, and it is always in impeccable condition. Our LPGA Tour players are the top performers in the world, and they deserve to compete on the top courses. Sentosa isn't just beautiful – the views and aesthetics are second to none – but the fans watching on television have fallen in love with the venue as much as they have with the players.
It's no coincidence that the fans tuned into the US Women’s Open at Pebble Beach last year in record numbers and this summer we will have the Old Course in St Andrews hosting the AIG Women’s Open. But the benchmark of any championship is the quality of its winners and here we have a veritable who’s who of women’s golf. Since moving to Sentosa in 2013, eight of the nine winners are Major champions and three have been ranked the World No.1.
Inbee Park and Jin Young Ko are both two-time winners and this was where
Michelle Wie West enjoyed her last victory in 2018. Ten years ago, we had Paula Creamer's 75-foot eagle putt that still remains one of the most memorable shots on the LPGA Tour.
In many ways the LPGA mirrors Singapore itself, a melting pot of the very best. The LPGA is one of the most ethnically, culturally, and internationally diverse professional sporting leagues in the world with representatives of more than 30 countries and it is
“ SENTOSA GOLF CLUB MAGAZINE
an honour to showcase this event to our worldwide audience.
We are now in a time and place where women’s sports in general and the LPGA in particular are on the precipice of a movement. Our talent is better than it has ever been, we have great players with magnetic personalities
and the energy at our events is off the charts. And the numbers reflect that; our total prize funds this year will exceed $118m, a more than 70 per cent increase in just three years.
We believe there is a huge untapped universe of people who will fall in love with the LPGA if we present our players and events in the right way. To help achieve that we have built out a marketing team that will drive fans to our events in person as well as to our broadcasts.
We’re focused on helping develop content for our players and their brands and our plan is to launch a new website and mobile app later in the year that is easier to use and provides more of the information that fans want to see.
We believe strongly that this is our time and it's truly exciting.
Peanuts Sauce (Part 1)
125gm Roasted peanuts
2nos Shallots
2nos Cloves garlic
2nos Fresh red Chilli, seeded
¼ tsp Dried shrimp paste (blachan) (see note)
¼ cup Water
Peanuts Sauce (Part 2)
2 tbsp Cooking oil
1/3 cup Tamarind water (see note)
3 tbsp Soy sauce
1 tbsp Soy sauce
1 tbsp Plum sauce
1 tbsp Sugar
Part 3
1 package regular or firm tofu
Cooking oil for frying
Garnish
40gm Bean sprouts
40gm Cucumber Shredded
20gm Roasted peanuts (Crushed)
Peanuts Sauce (Part 1)
Place peanuts in a food processor and blend till small bites, set aside. Combine shallots, garlic, chill, shrimp paste, and water in the food processor; process until smooth; set aside.
Peanuts Sauce (Part 2)
Place a wok over medium-low heat until hot. Add oil, follow by adding shallot mixture and stir, until fragrant, 5 to 6 minutes. Add chopped peanuts, tamarind water, soy sauce, plum sauce, and sugar; stir until smooth. Simmer over low heat, until sauce thickens slightly, remove from heat and set it aside.
Part 3
Drain tofu, place between paper towels, and fried it. Heat oil in a wok for deep-frying over medium-high heat. Add tofu and deep-fry, until golden on all sides. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Garnish
To serve, arrange tofu on a serving plate and garnish with boiled bean sprouts and cucumber. Reheat sauce just until warm and pour over tofu. Lastly, sprinkle crushed peanuts.
“It's probably my best moment, the best I've ever played before. I just want it to keep going in the same direction.”Joaquin Niemann
It’s not long now until we welcome a strong field for LIV Golf Singapore, by which point six tournaments will have been completed. The early signs are that Chile’s Joaquin Niemann will be amongst the favourites on The Serapong, following impressive victories at two of the first three events.
It was Niemann who took the first title of the year, LIV Golf Mayakoba at El Camaleón in Mexico. Despite carding an incredible opening round-59, the man from Santiago had to keep his cool to birdie the fourth playoff hole, fending off Spain’s Sergio Garcia as the darkness closed in. It was Niemann’s first individual title, and he soon added another to his CV after cruising to victory at LIV Golf Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.
It’s been the dream start for 25-yearold Niemann, who also won the Australian Open in December. With three top-five finishes on the DP World Tour, the young talent fully deserved his invitation to play at The Masters in April.
“It's probably my best moment, the best I've ever played before,” Niemann said after his four-shot victory at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club in Jeddah. “I just want it to keep going in the same direction.”
Who knows, perhaps Niemann will arrive in Singapore wearing a Green Jacket. A number of fellow LIV Golf stars will be standing in his way at Augusta, however, including last year’s champion, Jon Rahm, and a queue of former champions in the form of Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Garcia,
Phil Mickelson, Bubba Watson, and Charl Schwartzel.
If Niemann has made himself the man to beat in the race for the individual title, The Crushers can claim to be the number one force in the team event. In setting a record for biggest rally by any team in the final round, America’s Bryson DeChambeau and his defending champion Crushers GC reminded the rest of the league of their strong credentials in Jeddah.
It will be a joy to watch DeChambeau tackle The Serapong, who, like Niemann, can also boast a sub-60 round on LIV Golf (he shot a historic 58 at LIV Golf Greenbrier last August). However, such is the strength in depth on the circuit, it’s not easy to predict who will come out on top here in May. Stand by for lots of birdies…
Jon Rahm of Legion XIII was one of LIV Golf's major signings during the off-season The LIV Golf League Class of 2024 ready for the new seasonThree new golfers have been added to Sentosa’s sponsored players’ line-up for 2024. Amanda Tan, Aloysa Atienza and Chen Xing Tong will join a list of players that also includes Koh Deng Shan, Abdul Hadi, Koh Sock Hwee, Nicklaus Chiam and Brayden Lee.
Amateur Chen recently qualified for the HSBC Women’s World Championship at Sentosa having topped the two-day qualifying event. The young golfer, who is part of Singapore's national squad, finished four shots ahead of both Tan and Atienza over The Tanjong after putting together a level-par effort.
“I am very excited but also very nervous to be able to play with some of the best in the world. I’m just really, really excited about this opportunity!” explained Chen at the time. "I really wanted to be consistent, such as keeping the ball in play and hitting the fairways and greens. Basically, playing simple golf.”
Chen, also a member of the national squad, missed the cut at the recent Women's Amateur Asia Pacific but Atienza put together a brilliant display in Thailand where she finished with a four-under 68 which elevated her into a tie for 22nd.
Tan is the only professional of the trio and is a relative veteran having qualified for the LPGA Tour showpiece on no fewer than five occasions. Tan left the amateur ranks at the age of 18 and her first professional appearance came at the 2017 version where Inbee Park emerged as the winner. At the age of just 14, she would qualify for the 2014 event where she would play a practice round with Lydia Ko.
Tan played the LPGA Epson Tour in 2023 and despite a slight struggle remains optimistic about realising her dream of making it to the LPGA Tour.
“I learnt that everyone is going to make mistakes and that making mistakes is OK. I don’t think I’m ever going to find a day that will be perfect, maybe I’ll just have that one day out of my entire career, I’ll never know. The biggest takeaway is that I’ve just got to go play. If it doesn’t work out that week, I’ll need to work on it and try again," Tan said.
“My dream is still to play on the LPGA. I really enjoy playing in Asia because it’s so close to home, it’s very comfortable but being in the United States is a push, it’s a bit uncomfortable for me because it’s unfamiliar territory. But ultimately, I know if I want to play on the LPGA and there’s a lot for me to learn so I want to keep trying.”
The world’s best golfers might well be set to work their magic here in May when LIV Golf Singapore comes to The Serapong, but Jon Rahm and co won’t be the only wizards on Sentosa. Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience in Singapore offers you the chance to immerse yourself in an enchanting, interactive journey through the iconic Forbidden Forest, filled with creatures and wonders from the Harry Potter world and Fantastic Beasts films.
Set in beautiful woodland, this experience has been brought to life by award-winning theatrical designers and experiential creators. How does a face-to-face meeting with Hippogriff sound? For more information, including ticket sales, visit hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/singapore
Time: 7.45pm to 11.00pm (Last entry at 10.15pm)
Duration: approx. 45 to 60 minutes
Location: Coastal Trail, Sentosa
The best way to narrow down your search is to go by your skill level (handicap). Other considerations include how fast you swing the club and what your shot pattern is. Generally speaking, manufacturers will release multiple models of driver to cater for players of all abilities. Better players tend to favour drivers that offer more workability, whilst higher handicap players can benefit from having more assistance for off-centre strikes and draw-biased models that can help smooth out a slice. To help make an informed decision, here’s the background on some of this year’s best models.
Let’s start here, because these models will most likely appeal to the vast majority of club golfers, whose handicaps lie somewhere between 12 and 18. One of the standout performers in this section has to be the Titleist TSR3. Fast and forgiving, with its moveable weight and spin profile, it arguably has the broadest appeal within the TSR range.
Another contender in this category would be TaylorMade’s Qi10 LS driver. This low spinning model is what we’d call a ‘better player’ driver, although it definitely has broad appeal. It has a slightly different profile compared to the standard and Max heads because it features a more familiar pearshaped design. Meanwhile, a blue design and a subtle white strip along the top line will help with face alignment.
There’s no escaping it – the slice is the most common shot shape off the tee amongst club golfers. Typically, to help straighten out a slice, manufacturers move weight towards the heel-side of the driver, and such models will contain a good amount of offset, too.
One of our favourite anti slice drivers is the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D. As well as being an easy driver to get airborne – which makes it an ideal choice for those golfers with slow swing speeds – the use of Ai and rear weight being strategically placed helps to increase the MOI and draw bias of the driver. Other anti slice drivers to consider include TaylorMade’s Qi10 Max , the Ping G430 SFT, and Mizuno’s ST-X 230, as well as Titleist’s TSR3
Those with handicaps of around 18-plus are most likely to prioritise forgiveness. Having greater stability through impact should help golfers to get the ball off the tee and find more fairways, which in turn will inspire more confidence and go a long way to helping players shoot lower scores and get more enjoyment from the game. For a long time, Titleist was considered a brand played exclusively by serious players, but this is certainly no longer the case. The TSR2 is proof that there’s a Titleist driver for golfers of all abilities, with this particular model proving both fast and forgiving on off-centre strikes. With its 460cc clubhead, it’s right up there with the most aspirational drivers on the market. In fact, it’s actually a model that scratch players will play, as well as those with handicaps in the mid-20s.
We must touch again on the Ping G430 SFT driver, here, because it’s another fantastic model that should appeal to a broad range of golfing abilities. It might be classed as an anti-slice driver with its draw+ setting, but unlike a lot of models in this category it sits pretty square at address. With the more neutral setup and the larger footprint, it has a really confidence-inspiring look, giving those struggling off the tee a bit of a confidence boost.
It’s not as straightforward to say because you play off ‘X’ handicap, this is the driver you should play, but hopefully this gives you an idea of how to narrow down your search. If you are in the market for a new driver, make sure you come and see us. We have all the tools and expertise to get you playing with the right model for your game. Getting custom fitted will not only help you to get the most out of the latest technology, but it will also ensure that you have the best chance of maximising your potential.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max D Titleist TSR2 TaylorMade Qi10 LS Ping G430 SFT Titleist TSR3In the latest issue of 18 Holes With…we caught up with one of our newest sponsored amateurs, Chen Xing Tong, to get the lowdown on her appearance at the recent HSBC Women’s World Championship, how she got into golf, and her ambitions moving forward…
How did you get into golf?
My dad gifted me a set of ladies clubs and signed me up for classes.
Who is your golfing idol?
Not to be cliché – Tiger Woods.
How important has the Singapore Golf Association been to your development?
The SGA’s support and dedication to nurturing
golf in Singapore has been a huge part in how much I’ve improved since I started competing.
What do you like most about playing on The Tanjong?
The greens are always in great condition.
What was it like to compete in this year’s HSBC Women’s World Championship?
It was unreal to compete
and learn from the best. Playing with players I usually see on TV was an amazing experience.
What are your goals for the remainder of the 2024 season and beyond?
Play consistently in the low 70s and do well overseas.
How does it feel to be sponsored by Sentosa Golf Club?
I’m honoured to have the chance and resources to practice at such a worldclass venue.
Do you have any pre-round rituals or superstitions?
I used to try and replicate the day I played well in the hope it would happen again.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given?
Trust the process and have fun on the course.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve ever faced on the course?
Overcoming my doubts and trusting my shots.
What is the happiest moment of your golfing career so far?
Winning the Selangor Amateur Open back in November. It was my first win overseas.
Have you ever achieved a hole-in-one?
I’ve achieved two – both at Warren Golf Club.
If you could play golf with anyone in the world, who would it be?
Tiger Woods or Rory McIlroy.
What is the one rule in golf you would change?
Getting relief from divots in the fairway.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be? The ability to learn anything.
How would you describe Sentosa Golf Club in three words?
Gorgeous, pure, fast.
What is your favourite thing about Singapore? Our diversity.
If you could play one other sport, what would it be?
F1 but that is just an excuse to meet my favourite drivers. The real answer would be dance sports because I wish I had the coordination to move like that.
