RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB NEWSLETTER | March - April 2017
Raffles Country Club Singapore www.rcc.org.sg
Vol
41
s t n e t n o C
GENERAL COMMITTEE President Mr Paul Singh
CLUB NEWS
Vice-President Chairman of Food & Beverage Mr Loh Kum Chuen
LIFESTYLE
Snapshots
4
Brand New Beauties!
30
SLA Land Acquisition
5
Pain Relief For Golfers
32
A Raw Deal....Our Raw Feelings
8
Cultural Golfing Hot Spot
34
FOOD & BEVERAGES
Treasurer Chairman of Finance Mr Tom Yeo Secretary Mr John Goh
FACILITIES
Special Update on F&B Performance 10
Golf Course Maintenance Work
Chef Hock at Fu Lin Men
Improvements around the Club 38
12
Captain Chairman of Golfing & Greens Mr Sebastian Song
36
Chairman of Communications & Information Ms Cheong Yoke Keng Chairman of Facilities & Estate Mr Hoe Boon Leong Chairman of Lifestyle & Social Mr Phee Thian Chye
GOLF Monthly Medal
14
Training Like A Tour Player
19
Hainan Peninsula Golf Teams Challenge 2016
20
Santa Golf Scramble Dinner & Dance
22
Champion Medallist 2016
25
Chairman's Trophy 2017
26
New Local Rule: No Penalty For Accidental Movement of a Ball On The Putting Green
28
12
Member Mr Henry Ho
22
MANAGEMENT General Manager Farrock Ebrahim farrock.ebrahim@rcc.org.sg 6864 0889 Finance Manager Anthony Low anthony.low@rcc.org.sg 6864 0828
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Raffles Connection is published by: Raffles Country Club, 450 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore 639932 l www.rcc.org.sg MCI (P) 170/04/2016 For Advertising and Magazine Enquiries, please contact Sales & Marketing/Communications Manager Joanne Ng: joanne.ng@rcc.org.sg/ 6864 0838 All information and dates are correct at time of printing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher.
Course Superintendent Christine Chung christine.chungbhivat@rcc.org.sg 6861 2725 Golfing Operations Manager 6864 0836 F&B/Lifestyle Manager Cristo Fong cristo.fong@rcc.org.sg 6864 0863 Sales & Marketing/ Communications Manager Joanne Ng joanne.ng@rcc.org.sg 6864 0838 Facilities Manager 6864 0883
EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Cheong Yoke Keng Editor Justine Moss Members Ven Sreenivasan Edmond Ang Nina Koh Joanne Ng Relle Lee
BOOK YOUR
DIM SUM LUNCH NOW AT
FU LIN MEN CHINESE RESTAURANT
LEVEL 2 RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB. 450 JALAN AHMAD IBRAHIM S 639932.
T: 6861 0127 E: sharonquah@passion-restaurant.com
s ' t n e d i s Pre ge
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
Messa
On 4 January 2017, we were served notice of Land Acquisition of the entire site of Raffles Country Club by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). The purpose of the compulsory acquisition is for the KL-Singapore High Speed Rail, Cross Island MRT line’s western depot and other transport related uses. We are required to deliver vacant possession of the property by 31 July 2018. The news saddened and shocked all of us as we thought that the HSR would only take away a portion of our land, and that we would be able to function with 27 holes or at minimal as an 18-hole golf club. Nevertheless, upon being served the Notice of Acquisition by SLA on 4 January 2017, the General Committee (GC) had an emergency meeting so as to quickly address key issues i.e. engagement of consultants for the submission of claims to the Collector of Land Revenue, employee welfare and Club Operations. In the days that followed, the GC interviewed several law firms and also wrote to property consultants to submit their proposals for our consideration. The GC has appointed Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP to serve as our legal counsel and Knight Frank Pte Ltd as valuer. Both have the knowledge and expertise in handling land acquisition of a golf club, having represented Jurong Country Club on their property valuation. The Collector’s Inquiry for submission of Claim was scheduled for 3 February 2017. The Club has written to the Collector of Land Revenue (CLR) to postpone the Inquiry and he has agreed and it will now be on 7 April 2017 instead. As time is of the essence, we will be working with the two consultants closely to quickly come up with the Valuation Report. We will also be
meeting with SLA for discussions concerning the acquisition. Kindly rest assured that the GC, along with our consultants Rajah & Tann and Knight Frank, will present our case to the best of our abilities so as to secure the highest compensation possible for all members. Many members have asked me about our reserves and how they will be handled due to the acquisition. At the time of writing this message, I don’t have the answer. However, rest assured that we will have our legal counsel look into ways of disbursing the reserves to members. We will be calling for a Town Hall meeting to update members on the land acquisition process where the legal counsel will elaborate on these matters. We will then be calling for an EOGM to request members to vote on some resolutions. We are looking at having the Town Hall meeting in mid-March 2017 and the EOGM towards the third week of March 2017. The confirmed dates will be sent to members later. The GC together with the Union representatives have conducted a meeting with the RCC staff to answer questions in regard to their employment with the club. Employees were assured that they will continue to be employed till the closure of the Club on 31 July 2018. The Club and Union will do all they can to assist employees for employment opportunities or offer them training opportunities in order for them to move to other industries. On the operations side, the Club will continue functioning as per normal. I envision that the usage of our golf courses will increase due to more members wanting to play at the two courses. In view of this, I have asked the Club Captain to look at increasing our maintenance on Palm and Lake
Paul Singh President
We will be calling for a TOWN HALL
MEETING TO UPDATE MEMBERS on the land acquisition process where the legal counsel will elaborate on these matters.
Course. We will also increase Club events, making them more enjoyable to attract participation. The Food & Beverage Sub-Committee and the Management team will continue to improve the food quality and service at the Golfers’ Terrace (GT). There are already efforts to introduce more food variety, and create an ambience at the GT for members and guests to enjoy. Please do your part and support our GT. The GC will update members on our progress as we move along. I look forward to seeing you all at the Town Hall Meeting in mid-March 2017.
3
Snapsh ts Winner of Photography Competition: Dr Tan Shuh Chern Congratulations once again to the well-deserved winner of the photography competition!
A Gift of Friendship The crocodile sculpture that was a gift of friendship from Jurong Country Club to RCC is now at Lake Course Hole #17. The sculpture represents the strong ties between the two Clubs and continues the legacy of JCC, which closed its doors on 31 December 2016. RCC chooses to place the crocodile sculpture at Lake #17 as a wild crocodile was spotted on many occasions basking in the sun at the reservoir, which is just a stone’s throw away from the tee. With the closure of RCC in July 2018, this crocodile will need to find another new home!
The General Committee and new General Manager, Mr Farrock Ebrahim preparing to toss to a good year! Here's wishing all members a Happy & Prosperous New Year!
Captain’s Invite An appreciation session was organised by Club Captain, Mr Sebastian Song, to honour the noteworthy contributions of Ex-Club Captain, Mr Patrick Low.
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Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
CLUB NEWS
SLA Land Acquisition
5
6
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
CLUB NEWS
7
A Raw Deal….Our Raw Feelings By Nina Koh
A cathartic piece on the acquisition of our Club.
I
remember 4 January 2017 too well. It was a cool morning of glorious weather that beckoned you on course. My flight mates joked about the need to work off the festive excesses with more golf. It was par for the course for most of us as we merrily played into our first 9. At 10.21am, the unlikely news came from my WhatsApp that we were going the way of JCC. I thought it was a lame joke and told my flight mates so. They laughed it off. But I knew my source of news was not one to fool around with such releases. Before long, the Golf Marshalls were echoing what I already knew and my golf thereafter was not worth mentioning. I learned later that several flights of men terminated their game half way upon receiving the news. I should have too! “I was shocked and disappointed, because it was not what I heard from some reliable sources, thinking that only part of Palm course was required for the High Speed Train project. I have been a member since the first day and it is like my second home. We will feel totally lost after July next year.” - Lee Yuke Lan Back at the Clubhouse, a pall of silence enveloped the place. A sense of disbelief and anxiety was written on the faces of the staff as they continued with their daily chores. There was an eerie disquiet beneath the unusual quiet. That afternoon saw a media circus, a display of what most of us already knew. Shock, Disbelief, Anger, Resentment, Anxiety were exchanged among RCC members. “I am sure most of the golfers from Jurong and Raffles look forward to retiring with a healthy sport, paying well-earned monies for a club of their choice and having friends to share the same interest upon retirement. I believe most are seniors or of the pioneer generation. The hype by the Government that they have contributed much etc., etc.; have now shown that it does not hold much weight and consideration. Just reminds me of the ‘slash and burn' method of Indonesian Farmers when they need to clear land for their crops. They do it without regard for others who seem invisible to them, leaving their neighbours helpless. I feel the Government has just dismissed this group as insignificant. No dialogue but suddenly, giving notice on the first week of a New Year and literally rendering us helpless, and resigned to our courses’ fate. I believe there is also not much recourse to appeal against the total takeover. It is a sad day for us all, to think that this is the new generation Government.” - Kim
Cynthia Tin a long time member and in her own words said, “My heart is so heavy upon hearing the news, I could not continue with my work in the office anymore.” For some aging members who had bought several club memberships in their heyday, this piece of news is welcomed as a natural attrition of their club memberships as they approach their retirement from golf. This is especially so as these members need not pay for the transfer fee. But to some who own only one or two club memberships and treat RCC as home, such as our ex-Lady Captain, Peggy, said: “Robbed! I feel robbed. Of a home that I come to weekly. Suddenly, the Government just snatches it from under our feet.”
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Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
CLUB NEWS
A SICC friend remarked that this is another example of high handed treatment by the government and comforted me by saying that I may receive a good compensation. But I did not buy for investment. I bought to play golf and golf is about community and I had made mine here for the past two years. The friendship and camaraderie built are things that money cannot buy. And we are not that young to start making friends easily all over again. Soon we will be the displaced ones, the homeless that skip from club to club in search of a good game of golf! Also spare a thought for those members who paid high prices for their memberships. Many JCC and Keppel members who have just joined us could not believe their ‘tough luck’. It is disturbing to lose one home but to lose another within such a short period strikes fear and insecurity. Many are doubtful about investing into another golf club in Singapore. “So what if you’ve received your lease extension. They can just acquire it without notice” said some irate members. “And what about our staff? In face of an economic slowdown, it’s not easy to get another job so quickly. I feel sorry for them. They are like my family”, a sad member said. It is perhaps this sense of helplessness in the face of such Draconian rule that has riled many of us. The golfing community is now under attack. We have no say in defending our lifestyle. We are pushed abroad to look for greener pastures. But why should we? This is our home, our land, our own backyard. Yet most of us are not convinced that the HSR or MRT needs 146 hectares of luscious land which is more than twice the size of JCC: “I am unpleasantly surprised by LTA’s acquisition of the entire RCC at such a short notice. What’s most puzzling is the fact that the land RCC occupies is a catchment area as well as near an SAF live firing area. LTA’s justification to acquire the entire property for the High Speed Rail and depot for the cross island MRT line is hardly convincing for: 1. MRT depot does not take up the entire palm course of 70+ acres. 2. The HSR construction may affect part of Lake Course but after its construction, why can't it be covered up and returned to RCC? 3. As mentioned, there needs to be a buffer between the industrial land and catchment area. Wouldn't a golf course be the ideal solution for this purpose? We understand and support the government’s general strategy to optimise the use of land in a land scarce Singapore. But we can't help but feel that this move seems to lack transparency and the reasons are hardly convincing.” - Chong Lin “We want to enjoy our life in our own country with friends at a club or sports. But it seems that suddenly to support the Malaysian high speed rail we are forced to make a sacrifice in our lifestyle. I wonder what this sacrifice will translate to for the benefit of local Singaporeans. This is not at all clear at the moment.” - Edmond Ang Some members felt that the Government should reconsider again to acquire just 18 holes instead of 36. Others asked for time extension if possible. Another member said, “This Acquisition will leave many golfers homeless. Really pitiful for the 60+ years old, too old to buy another club & too young to give up golf.” We are hoping for a more compassionate review by the Government and if indeed the Acquisition must go ahead, then a fair compensation to lessen the pain. Hopefully many questions raised by concerned members will be answered by the authorities soon. We are hoping for the best as we are reminded by our late Prime Minister’s words: “There is nothing to be worried about it. Many things will go on just as usual. But be firm, be calm.” Lee Kuan Yew at a press conference on Singapore’s sudden independence on 9 August 1965. And the philosophical among us added: “Hmm mm ... when you finish reading the last chapter of a good book, pause for a moment to enjoy the aftertaste. Let the good thoughts linger for a while. Then close the book and move on to a better one.” Well-said by Leong Yue Wing. Let’s hope. Let’s hope this book ends well.
9
e g a r e v e Food & B Special Update on F&B Performance
Great News and Excellent F&B Results!
I
mmediately after the formation of FBSC in Oct 2016, we were bombarded by well-meaning members with suggestions to outsource the GT operations. To most members, that is the best and only way to cut losses and for F&B to survive. However, FBSC felt that we should rectify the problem areas quickly and to turn things around by improving the quality of food, cut down wastage and to improve our service so that more members return to support and patronise our GT. With some 30 kitchen and service staff, we must try our very best to boost their morale which dived down to the lowest level when rumours were circulated that GT would definitely be outsourced and they might lose their jobs. Their jobs and families were at stake and we empathised with them. We spent a lot of time talking to the staff to find out what problems they were facing, helping Management to find solutions to rectify the situation and to offer suggestions on how to improve revenue and to cut losses.
10
Surveys were conducted to find out members’ preferences in food and snacks, to focus on popular dishes and to cut off those dishes that were seldom ordered. New dishes such as Roti Prata, Mee Siam, Mee Rebus and snacks such as Fried Fish Skin and Mixed Nuts were introduced. Other new dishes to be introduced soon will include Fried Carrot Cake, Popiah and snacks such as Curry Puff , Potato Chips and Cookies. Our efforts eventually paid off. Staff morale improved, revenue rose and losses were reduced in the current financial period. In fact, for the first time ever since RCC operated GT in-house from 2015, we exceeded the Dec 2016 monthly budget and F&B overall operations made a October–December 2016 quarterly profit of some $54K versus losses in the past few quarters. For the Lunar New Year, we introduced Lohei dishes to usher in the New Year so that members and their guests could enjoy fine, festive food at special promotion prices.
Kueh Pie Ti
Fried Carrot Cake (Black)
After the LNY, we have plans to set up local fare food stalls so that members can enjoy their favourite dishes in the comfort of our GT. Some of you may have already noticed several changes made to improve the display of our weekly specials, staff productivity and the friendly GT atmosphere. Music will be played to enhance the festive mood and decorations to improve the ambience of the environment. Our GT cannot survive without the support of our members. We urge members to invite their guests over for meals at GT. You can also hold Birthday parties, Hole In One Celebrations or any other social functions at our Albatross with very special packages. Wine and liquor will be sold at special promotional prices and corkage has been reduced by 50% with immediate effect. No corkage will be charged on wine and liquor purchased from F&B and kept at Albatross for members.
of our kitchen staff as whatever compensation we can offer is no big deal to them. F&B main objectives and action plans made before the announcement may have to be modified. Popiah However, we shall reinforce and re-focus our main aim to improve the quality of our food and to provide excellent F&B service to our members and their guests. We will continue to put in our best effort to give you sweet memories of our GT, Albatross and our other facilities. Cheers!
With the pending SLA acquisition of RCC, we will face a different set of staff problems, with the likely resignation
F&B Sub-Committee
11
Chef Hock at Fu Lin Men By Loretta Lopez, Celebrity DJ
I
t was on the eve of Chinese New Year that I got the opportunity to have a chat with Chef Hock who heads the kitchen of Fu Lin Men Chinese Restaurant at Raffles Country Club. The kitchen staff were all bustling around preparing for what was expected to be a very busy dinner night. Large A1 sheets of paper lined the walls of the service areas as kitchen and service staff went over each reservation. I began to wonder whether this was such a good idea, to interview Chef today. I could not have picked a busier day! Despite the hustle and bustle, Chef Hock emerged from the kitchen smiling, kind and engaging. At 45 years of age, Chef Hock has been a resident chef of the Passion Group for over 10 years now. He received his culinary training in Taiwan over two decades ago and thereafter Hong Kong before setting his sights on Singapore. He learnt his discipline from many Chefs who mentored him through the years. More than just receiving basic cooking techniques, Chef Hock constantly and proactively seeks solutions to culinary issues. His approach to the Food & Beverage industry is indeed a holistic one – from kitchen to service and presentation - and every team member is an integral cog to ensuring a guest’s truly satisfying dining experience. Chef Hock went on to say, “You can never say you are the best. But you must continually learn to be better at what you do.” When I asked who first taught him to cook, a broad smile broke out on Chef's face. "My mother”, he answered softly. When prompted to name his favourite dishes as a child growing up, his eyes appeared to look into the distance. Two dishes came to mind and they were Stir-Fried Pork Intestines in Pineapple - a dish that Chef insisted was a challenge to perfect - and Stir-Fried Prawns in Tomato Sauce. Born and raised in Ipoh and of Hakka descent,
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Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Chef Hock went on to explain that it was his mother that first ignited his passion to cook from the age of seven, and she taught him to cook from the heart.
“I want to pursue healthy food therapy, to improve their health by eating my food that is cooked from natural resources and ingredients,” he explained.
And it is with this same passion that he cooks till today with the aim to invoke a taste that brings his diners back to their childhood. In a traditional Chinese setting, a meal is always at a round table; it is where family members and friends gather around for a good hearty meal. The round table is meant to then incite a communal feeling as you dine and drink.
So, while Chef Hock’s dishes might aesthetically appear 'Fusion' or 'Modern', at the heart of it all, it is traditional, hearty Cantonese cuisine served hot to the table.
I asked Chef Hock what he thought of fusion cooking versus traditional cooking. Chef Hock replied that while his dishes were traditional in ingredients and cooking methods, he also recognises the need to evolve as well through the years, as guests' palates and expectations change. But even so, he is driven by one key factor; using the natural flavours of good ingredients to enhance the dish, thereby avoiding the use of artificial seasonings such as MSG. Chef Hock also shared that his father passed away from cancer and that emboldened his desire to cook with natural ingredients. He believes that society is plagued with illnesses such as cancer and that it is largely in part to all the processed food that is so prevalent today.
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Golf
Monthly January 2017
Medals
RESULTS
Saturday, 7 Jan 2017 Format : Strokeplay, Palm Course
‘A’ DIV. MEN’S JANUARY 2017
‘A’ DIV. LADIES’ JANUARY 2017 Best Nett: Judy Quek HI: 12.9, 69 Nett. Best Gross: Jessie Oh HI: 19.9, 87 Gross.
Best Nett: Henry Lim HI: 9.9, 69 Nett. Runner-Up Nett: Bryan Chen HI: 10.1, 70 Nett. Best Gross: Samir Bedi HI: 2.4, 75 Gross. Henry Lim
Judy Quek
Bryan Chen
‘B’ DIV. MEN’S JANUARY 2017
Jessie Oh
‘B’ DIV. LADIES’ JANUARY 2017
Best Nett: Alan Koh HI: 16.1, 68 Nett. Runner-Up Nett: Mark Oh HI: 11.5, 69 Nett. Best Gross: Yeo Bee Kheng HI: 11.2, 82 Gross. Alan Koh
Mark Oh
Best Nett: Wong Swee Kua HI: 28.6, 75 Nett. Best Gross: Ngiow Lee Kim HI: 18.6, 98 Gross.
Wong Swee Kua
‘C’ DIV. MEN’S JANUARY 2017 Best Nett: Ng Song Cheng HI: 19.2, 75 Nett. Best Gross: Rick Tio HI: 18.8, 98 Gross.
Ngiow Lee Kim
NEAREST THE PIN
(Sponsored by Club President – Paul Singh) Hole no. 3:
Samir Bedi (15998) 1.8 m
Hole no. 7:
Lee Ngak Koon (1593202) 1.5 m
Hole no. 12: Ben Chua (15799) 1.3 m Ng Song Cheng
14
Rick Tio
Hole no. 17: Ben Liang (14562) 2.4 m
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
February 2017 RESULTS
Saturday, 4 Feb 2017 Format : Stableford, Palm Course
‘A’ DIV. MEN’S FEBRUARY 2017
‘A’ DIV. LADIES’ FEBRUARY 2017 Winner: Jennifer Teo HI: 17.3, 35 Pts. Runner-up: Judy Quek HI: 13.2, 24 Pts.
Winner: Bryan Chen HI: 9.2, 37 Pts. 1st Runner-up: Bryan Seah HI: 9.1, 36 Pts. OCB 2nd Runner-up: John Yam HI: 10.0, 36 Pts. Bryan Chen
Jennifer Teo
Bryan Seah
‘B’ DIV. MEN’S FEBRUARY 2017
Vince Wong
Patrick Lye
Winner: Vince Wong HI: 13.5, 38 Pts. OCB 1st Runner-up: Patrick Lye HI: 12.8, 38 Pts. 2nd Runner-up: Goh Leng Khiang HI: 13.6, 35 Pts.
‘C’ DIV. MEN’S FEBRUARY 2017 Winner: Ng Song Cheng HI: 21.5, 40 Pts. OCB Runner-up: Michael Low HI: 23.1, 40 Pts.
Ng Song Cheng
Michael Low
Judy Quek
‘B’ DIV. LADIES’ FEBRUARY 2017 Winner: Regina Wong HI: 18.7, 36 Pts. Runner-up: Pua Lay Tin HI: 23.7, 36 Pts.
Regina Wong Pua Lay Tin
NEAREST THE PIN Hole no. 3:
Henry Yu (10681)
1m
Hole no. 7:
Teo Chai Ching (1387602) 5 m
Hole no. 12: Bryan Chen (15319)
1.23 m
Hole no. 17: Jennifer Teo (16128)
3.9 m
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Hole In One
Achievers Josef Johann Zimlich (14839) Lake Hole 8, 148m, 13 December 2016
Teo Ching Ching Maria (15672) Palm Hole 17, 131m, 28 December 2016
Teo Beng Hong (14338) Lake Hole 2, 106m, 08 January 2017
Jhaveri Jay
(15520) Lake Hole 16, 147m, 30 December 2016
Ng Chuan Yong Tian Hao Raymond (16070) Lake Hole 16, 147m, 11 January 2017
(16198) Palm Hole 12, 125m, 15 January 2017
Tham Tuck Fai Michael (10940) Lake Hole 2, 106m, 18 January 2017
Eow Yoke Kee Alex (11056) Palm Hole 3, 109m, 13 January 2017
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Raymond Ong Chew Hock (15879) Palm Hole 17, 142m, 30 January 2017
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
Upcoming
Club
Competitions March 2017 4 March 2017
• March Monthly Medals, Palm PM
18 – 19 March 2017 • Inter-Club Friendly – RCC vs TPC KL, Lake PM
April 2017 1 April 2017
• April Monthly Medals in Conjunction with Prize Presentation, Lake PM
9 April 2017 • SGA ICL 2017 – RCC vs Keppel, TMCC
14 – 17 April 2017 • Inter-Club Friendly – RCC vs KGSAAS, KL
22 April 2017 • Ladies’ Bogey Competition, Lake PM
23 April 2017 • SGA ICL 2017 – RCC vs OCC, Keppel • SGA ICL 2017 – Keppel vs LGNCC, Palm PM
17
Your G lf
Calendar
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1
2
3
4
Private Competition / Palm PM Shotgun
Lake Course Closed AM Only
March Monthly Medals / Palm PM
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
Private Competition / Palm PM Regular Tee Off - 64pax
Private Competition / Palm PM Regular Tee Off - 32 pax
Inter-Club Friendly - RCC vs KLGCC / Lake AM Shotgun
Private Competition / Lake AM Regular Tee Off - 48 pax
Lake Course Closed Whole Day RCC Fishing / Lake PM
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed AM Only
Lake Course Closed AM Only
Lake Course Closed AM Only
Inter-Club Friendly - RCC vs KLGCC / Lake PM Regular Tee Off
Lake Course Closed AM Only Private Competition / Lake PM Regular Tee off - 32 pax
FRIDAY
30
SATURDAY 1
April Monthly Medals in conjunction with quarterly prize presentation / Lake PM Shotgun)
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Private Competition / Palm PM Regular Tee Off - 40 pax
18
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Lake Course Closed AM Only
Lake Course Closed AM Only
Lake Course Closed AM Only
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
Public Holiday Good Friday
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
Lake Course Closed AM Only
*Calendar is accurate as of 6th February 2017, and is subject to changes. Kindly refer to RCC website for latest event calendar. Private Competition Course Closed Club Competition/Event Lifestyle Public Holiday
Ladies Bogey Competition / Lake PM Strokeplay
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
Training Like
A Tour Player
By Chris Marriott – Head Professional, Raffles Country Club
T
alented young Indonesian junior golfer and rising star Alfred Raja Sitohang began training under my guidance in 2016. Alfred had some big tournaments scheduled during the final two months of last year, so we worked together on improving every aspect of his long game, short game as well as course management over five consecutive days in early October. This intensive training schedule, with a high volume of repetition over several consecutive days, is how the majority of tour players would work with their respective coaches in preparation for a run of tournaments. A significant change to Alfred’s setup angles helped improve his arm and club path. As you can see in Alfred’s old setup, his spine tilt was very upright and he sat back into his heels with his arms stretched out. His new posture has his chest more over the ball, allowing his arms to hang directly under his shoulders. At the top of the old backswing, the club would appear extremely ‘laid-off’ or in other words pointing very far to the left of the target and behind the back of his body. The new setup position allows for the arms to swing up in a better direction with the club now sitting more up over his right shoulder at the top. These changes to Alfred’s posture and path dramatically improved the quality of his ball-striking which therefore resulted in hitting a higher percentage of both fairways and greens in regulation. This took much unwanted pressure away from his short game and offered several more good birdie opportunities during each competition round. Alfred was soon reaping the rewards from the progress made. In early November, just one month after the swing changes, Alfred qualified as a 14yr old amateur to play alongside the Asian Tour’s best professionals, earning himself a coveted place in the field for the 2016 BANK BRI-JCB Indonesian Open! Soon after this great performance, Alfred won the Indonesia Elite Amateur Championship, then shot commendable rounds of 73,73 at the Indonesian Open, and fired a final round 68 to claim second place at the Mizuno-Laguna National Junior Golf Championship. Finally, he capped off this great run of form to take the honours as leading amateur at the PGA Tour of Indonesia’s final event of the 2016 season behind tournament winner and my former professional student Rory Hie. To improve the way you perform on course, consider spending a few consecutive days training along the lines of elite amateurs and tournament professionals. The results from this more intensive practice with a high volume of repetition over 3-5 days will be a total game-changer!!
*RCC Members Enjoy a 30% Discount on 1-Day, 3-Day and 5-Day Golf Schools. Training programs and prices will be provided upon request. Please contact Chris on 98898600 or email: chris@academyofgolf.com.sg for further details.
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Hainan Peninsula Golf Teams Challenge 2016 12 - 13 November 2016 By Allan Tan, RCC Member
A
fter participating in the successfully concluded 4th Mission Hills Reciprocal Championship held in Haikou from 9 to 11 November 2016 (appeared in Raffles Connection: Jan-Feb 2017), 15 enthusiastic RCC golfers, together with their friends, moved south to The Dunes Golf at Shenzhou Peninsula, Hainan. It was a sense of ‘home-coming’ as another RCC team was there last year, from 10 to 14 December 2015 (appeared in Travelogue: Raffles Connection Mar-Apr 2016), taking part in the inaugural Peninsula Golf Teams Challenge 2015 (PGTC).
Similar to the previous year, the ever-popular PGTC 2016 was held over three months, from October to December, with eight preliminary sessions culminating in the Grand Session over Christmas. There were 10 to 12 teams, comprising 8 to 12 players per session that totalled more than 1000 participants. In conjunction with the Mission Hills Reciprocal Championship, the RCC team signed up for the 3rd session held from 12 to 13 November 2016, played over 2 days (2 x 18 holes) on the well-maintained, scenic yet treacherous East & West Courses. Like the previous year, the 1st day format was 4BBB and the 2nd day was ‘Texas Scramble’, where male golfers below 60 years old teed-off from ‘blue tee’ & above ‘white tee’; ladies teedoff from ‘red tee’. It was also mandatory for participants
20
to declare their amateur status and the majority were from various parts of China, together with teams from HK, Taiwan & Singapore. Notably, with golf becoming increasingly popular in China and a mushrooming of well-designed and maintained golf courses, there was no shortage of young, strong & talented teens. The 3rd session eventually proved to be the ‘strongest’ session in the eight sessions, where the top three teams eventually advanced to the Grand Final and captured the 1st, 2nd & 4th positions. The RCC Team A, which included the current Club President, Captain and a few league players amassed a total of 573 points. The team was ranked 4th for the 3rd session and 12th position overall from 120 teams for the whole competition. This is the best result by an overseas team, similar to the previous year. The organiser was professional and meticulous. All logistics including checking in at designated hotel, distribution of goodie bags, provision of meals, group photography, tagging and transfer of golf bags were taken care of. The senior management staff and officials were also warm and hospitable. The weather during this period at the end of autumn was cool and perfect for golf. The entire team returned with fond memories of the trip and all look forward to participating again in 2017.
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
21
Santa Golf Scramble Dinner & Dance 17 December 2016
H
o! Ho! Ho! ‘Twas the season to be merry at the Club!
The 2016 edition of the Santa Golf Scramble was the biggest, most fun-filled and anticipated to date! The combination of golf with a dinner and dance is the secret to its success, and this popular event is the brainchild of the Golfing & Greens Sub-Committee, supported by the Lifestyle & Social Sub-Committee. Albeit the initial shower, golfers remained bright and cheery as the festive day started off with an overwhelming turnout of over 120 golfers, some of whom were already there since early morning, lavishly dressing up their buggies in the hope of walking away with the title of the Best-Decorated Buggy. Before the commencement of the game, each golfer was given a balloon to write their New Year wishes on and to release them into the sky in unison - what a sight to behold! After a round of rewarding though gruelling golf game, the golfers were treated to a Chinese sit-down dinner at the Stamford Suite. Competition and novelty prizes such as Hole-in-One, The Longest Drive with a twist - where players taking the longest time to tee-off win - Best Dressed, Best Decorated Buggy and Most Candid Group photo were given away that evening.
Everything is more merry with friends!
It was definitely a day filled with laughter and fun for the participants!
President, Paul Singh, Lau Wing Cheok, Lady Captain, Esther Oh & Captain, Sebastian Song
Everyone looking bright and cheery on the course!
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Posing with their labour of love.
The ladies having a bla
st on the course.
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
Golfers preparing to release the ballons in unison.
Results
Saturday, 17 December 2016 Format: 2-ball scramble (Stableford) Lake Course Winning Team : 2nd Team :
g ac t.
Yeo Bee Kheng Maria Teo
15108 (Team Handicap – 7) 48 PTS OCB 15672
Lau Wing Cheok Sebastian Song
14902 (Team Handicap - 4) 15857
48 PTS
13935 (Team Handicap - 6) 13957
46 PTS OCB
3rd Team : Frankie Yeap Jennifer Tan 4th Team : 5th Team :
One-leg balancin
Kalaimani Chandran
16055 (Team Handicap – 4) 46 PTS 14589
Patrick Lye James Tan
15986 (Team Handicap – 6) 1612801
45 PTS
Best Dressed Golfer Norlia Embong (1374002)
Nearest the Pin (Hole 14) Low Sim Yam (13659) – 0.26m
Best Deco Buggy Winner Cheong Yoke Keng (15718) & Lee Yuke Lan (11834)
Longest Drive (Hole 18) John Yam (15620) – 48.05 sec * Longest time taken to tee-off
Best Deco Buggy Runner’s-up Peggy Ang (1182402) Alfred Ang (11824)
Most Candid Group Photo Patrick Lye (15986) James Tan (1612801) Tan Kiam Han (14209) Loo Liat Wang (15119)
Nearest the Pin (Hole 8) Joe Goh (GG001) – 0.1m
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Golfers' Terrace
All-Time Favourites
Chicken Satay
Famous Punggol Mee Goreng
Irish Roast Duck with Plum Sauce
Kampong Laksa
Mee Rebus
Stir Fried Mixed Vegetable in Oyster Sauce
r the o f t u o k o o l Keep a oo! t s l a i c e p S Weekly
c! i l b u P e h t Open to
Sweet & Sour Pork
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
Champion Medallist 2016 14 January 2017
T
he annual Champion Medallist took place at the challenging Palm Course on Saturday, 14 January 2017. As per usual, winners of Club Monthly Medal converge on this day to compete for the much-coveted title. Stroke by stroke, the finalists from a pool of 50 slowly emerged, before husband and wife Allan Chua and Linda Yeo walked away hand in hand as the overall champions of the Men and Ladies Divisions. By no means an easy feat to triumph over other winners of the Monthly Medal, they shared some of the key factors that brought about their success and ‘special tips’ for other golfers. 1. What contributed to your success? Allan: When I let nature take its course, I can keep calm and have a better view to see the big picture. To me, it is not about winning the competition but the joy of participation, enjoying and sharing the experience with likeminded friends. Linda: Determination to strive to be better every time I play. 2. Any special tips to share? Allan: Handle all situations with a calm attitude, then you can see even more. Linda: There are no special tips for golf. Just enjoy each game to the fullest and you will see the results.
3. How many times do you train a week? Allan: Once a week and usually through a friendly match. I aim to have a good time, communicate and share joy with friends. Linda: I used to play quite frequently in the past. However, due to family commitments, I play less than once a month these days.
Results Saturday, 14 Jan 2017 Format : Strokeplay Palm Course
Men Division Champion Runner-Up
: Chua Kim Hock : Eddie Sua
Ladies Division Champion : Linda Yeo Runner-Up : Jessie Oh
14359 13251
(HI : 19.5) (HI : 19.8)
70 Nett OCB 70 Nett
1435902 1422802
(HI : 18.0) (HI : 9.6)
73 Nett 74 Nett OCB
25
Chairman's Trophy 2017 21 January 2017
O
nce again, it was the annual Chairman’s Trophy and this year, it took place on Saturday, 21 January 2017.
As with all the past Chairman’s Trophy events, we were honoured to have the Club Chairman, Mr Tan Soo Nan, grace the annual event. The event took off with an afternoon shotgun start at 1300 hrs played at Lake Course with a combined Stableford format play. It was unfortunate that during this time of the year the weather was greatly affected by the North East Monsoon, resulting in inclement weather during the game; hence the golf game was disrupted and the scores of the participants were based on a 9-hole score. Members were treated to a sumptuous meal at Albatross with great music entertainment as well as a stand-up comedy segment by member, Mr Jacob Tay. We were also honoured to have the Chairman address the members with a message during the dinner.
The happy-looking bu
nch.
It was indeed a memorable occasion and a good start for all events that will follow for the year 2017.
Is this the legendary victory stance?
Hooray to Chairman's Trophy 2017!
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Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
Thumbs up to another successful Chairman's Trophy!
Let me release my inner 'Qi'!
Here's wishing everyone Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Everyone enjoying a mug of beer.
Chairman, Mr Tan Soo Nan giving a speech during dinner.
Bonding over tasty food and drinks is the best!
Results
Saturday, 21st January 2017 Format : Combined Stableford (Team Event , based on 90% of Handicap) Lake Course Winning Team : 2nd Team : 3rd Team :
Maria Teo Low Yi Cheng
(15672) (16187)
46 PTS
Ben Chua Tan Lee Hong
(15799) (15575)
42 PTS
Alan Chua Linda Yeo
(14359) (1435902)
41 pts
Maria Teo from the winning team, receiving a prize fro m Chairman, Mr Tan Soo Nan.
Lucky Draw 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
Michael Low (10692) Lee Ngak Koon (1233002) Patrick Lye (15986) Daniel Goh (10919) Lee Fui Howe (16069)
6th 7th 8th 9th 10th
Pang Lock Fu (15667) Jacob Tay (15626) Lee Thiam Seng (14192) Samir Bedi (15998) Denise Seow (16164)
11th 12th 13th 14th
Vince Wong Tan Kim Lian Kleio Park Angie Joo
(10301) (15865) (1566702) (1522602)
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New Local Rule: No Penalty For Accidental Movement of a Ball On The Putting Green By Dennis Ee, RCC Golf Manager
O
n 1 January 2017, the USGA and R&A announced the introduction of a new Local Rule that eliminates the penalty when a ball is accidentally moved on the putting green.
The new rule will be adopted by the USGA and R&A in all their championships, qualifying competitions, and international matches. Subsequent to the announcement, the Singapore Golf Association (SGA), has advised its member clubs and affiliates to introduce and use this New Local Rule in all Tournaments and Club’s Golf Events with immediate effect. The Club has since made the announcement and publicised the introduction of the new rule via the Club weekly e-blast and notice boards on 13 January 2017. Essentially, the new Local Rule takes effect from this date onwards and members and golfers are advised to observe this rule. The New Local Rule will read as follows: “Rules 18-2, 18-3 and 20-1 are modified as follows: When a player’s ball lies on the putting green, there is no penalty if the ball or ball - marker is accidentally moved by the player, his partner, his opponent, or any of their caddies or equipment. The moved ball or ball-marker must be replaced as provided in Rules 18-2, 18-3 and 20- 1. This Local Rule applies only when the player’s ball or ball-marker lies on the putting green and any movement is accidental. Note: If it is determined that a player’s ball on the putting green was moved as a result of wind, water or some other natural cause such as the effects of gravity, the ball must be played as it lies from its new location. A ball-marker moved in such circumstances is replaced.” Please refer to the illustration from the USGA for better understanding on how the new rule applies.
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Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
GOLF
29
e l y t s e f i L
Brand New Beauties!
ECCO® Golf CAGE PRO & COOL Shoes
By Justine Moss
J
ustine Moss checks out some of the must-have latest equipment, apparel and footwear from a few of the top golf brands.
Cobra Golf KING F7 and F7+ Drivers These brand new models boast the COBRA CONNECT Powered by Arccos system which features an ultralight sensor that’s embedded in the grip, allowing golfers to automatically track the distance and accuracy of every drive. The KING F7 driver features a larger face and address profile that increases MOI and provides more distance, forgiveness and speed across the face. An adjustable weight system with three CG settings in the front, the back and heel positions allows for three differing ball flights – low, high and draw, to provide golfers with optimum distance and trajectory for a variety of conditions. The F7+ Driver utilizes the same key technologies as the F7 driver - including three weight
settings for CG adjustability, a Forged Ti-811 face, TeXtreme Carbon Fiber Crown and MyFly8 technology. ECCO® Golf CAGE PRO & COOL Shoes ECCO Golf recently released their new ECCO CAGE PRO, a spikeless golf shoe that utilises a revolutionary sole design to provide outstanding grip and performance. Its ECCO SPYDR-GRIP outsole is less aggressive on the greens, provides outstanding grip in all conditions and minimises clogging of dirt in the sole, while the unique one-piece, DIP stability cage wraps from the heel through the midsole and across the toe box. ECCO Golf has also launched the new ECCO COOL shoe, in conjunction with GORE® which gives protection from the elements. An advanced air channelling system within the grid-shaped sole structure provides 360° breathability without compromising on waterproof protection, in order to keep feet dry in all conditions. FootJoy CountourFIT Golf Shoes As always, FootJoy have come up with a superb golf shoe, and this latest gem is a radical upgrade to the iconic FJ Contour Series line of golf shoes. First of all the new DynaFlex outsole – engineered with TPU- has been designed to flex naturally with the foot. Then there is the FTF 3.0 midsole which has been designed for underfoot comfort and cushioning while still ensuring the golfer has appropriate lateral support and stability. Also in place is a newly designed FitBed that is thick, soft and breathable to ensure all day comfort. The top of the shoe
30
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
LIFESTYLE
features a new U-throat design to give the player a more generous fit and a new integrated Achilles heel pad that delivers support and comfort while also working with the connected comfort tongue to lock the foot into the shoe for a precise fit.
Mizuno JPX900 Woods & Irons Series The new JPX900 driver, fairway wood and hybrid series showcase the science-driven process of Mizuno. The driver has a new CORTECH face design which is five grams lighter than the previous JPX850, freeing up discretionary weight while expanding the COR area to offer more forgiveness and ball speed retention on offcenter hits. The fairway wood, like the driver, also features Infinite Fast Track technology, making it the first-ever fairway wood with a front/back adjustable, sliding-weight system, putting the golfer in complete control of launch, height and spin. The hybrid is the first Mizuno hybrid with adjustable loft settings. All members of the JPX900 family are customizable through Mizuno's Performance Fitting System (PFS), which utilizes proprietary technology of the Mizuno Shaft Optimizer to pinpoint club specs for peak performance.
characteristics of the previous generation GOLO and Futura X lines with Scotty Cameron’s continued innovation in multi-material putter constructions. The result is a cohesive lineup of tour-proven shapes and configurations – Futura 5CB, 5MB, 5W and 5S; Futura 6M and 6M Dual Balance; and Futura 7M – with enhanced stability and forgiveness, improved alignment features, and responsive feel and feedback. As the master craftsman says, “This new Futura line blends my ideas about highperformance putter designs with my longstanding ideals that high-tech should always be high-quality. What we’ve pioneered with our multi-material technology allows me to design properly-weighted larger putter heads for more stable setups to give mallet players more confidence over putts.”
Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x Billed as the most advanced, best performing golf balls ever stamped with the Titleist script, the 2017 Models are available in golf shops now. The new Pro V1 has been reengineered with a Next Generation 2.0 ZG Process Core that delivers longer distance on all shots through lower long game spin and faster ball speed, while maintaining the very soft feel and superior shortgame performance. The 2017 Pro V1x, featuring a ZG Process Dual Core, is enhanced by a new spherically tiled 328 tetrahedral dimple design that produces a high trajectory with its most consistent flight ever. Both the V1 and the V1x, which are used by the likes of Jordan Spieth, Adam Scott, Jimmy Walker and Thongchai Jaidee, continue to deliver superior short game scoring performance. They also provide long-lasting durability throughout the course of play.
Scotty Cameron Futura Putters The new line of Scotty Cameron Futura putters offers seven high performance mallet-style models. From rounded mid-mallets to high-tech, high-MOI larger mallets, the 2017 Futura family melds the best design
31
Pain Relief For Golfers
Article contributed by Loh Kum Chuen
A
t one time or another, regular golfers may experience pain due to over-exertion, injury, accident or due to some other chronic or health conditions. Pain can arise from Tennis / Golfers’ Elbow, Back Injury, Wrist or Finger Injury, over-stretched muscles, muscle cramps or ligament tear, sprained ankle, knee pain, joint pain (Osteoarthritis), frozen shoulder, neck pain, headaches, migraine, Arthritis or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Most golfers would seek Medical consultation for prescription drugs or self-medicate with Over the Counter (OTC) medicine. All these medications have side-effects of varying degrees and should not be consumed on a long term basis as many may be damaging to the kidneys and liver.
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Acupuncture has been known for centuries to be effective in treating many conditions and especially in pain relief. The principles of acupuncture are based on the stimulation of certain meridian (acupuncture) points to bring about a balance of the Vital Energy or “Chi “, with subsequent relief of pain and an improvement in general well-being. There are now battery operated acupuncture devices, combining modern technology with the ancient art
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
LIFESTYLE
of acupuncture (without the use of the traditional long needles used by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Practitioners as some patients were fearful of the needles and risk of invasive infections). They are available for people to treat themselves at home or in their workplace for pain relief and many other conditions treated by traditional acupuncture. There are several versions of the Modern Needleless Acupuncture devices in the market now, using electrical stimulation to re-balance the positive and negative charges in the human body. Excessive positive ions have a dramatic effect on some people by raising their serotonin levels, producing inflammation, allergies, respiratory difficulties, irritability and general ill-health.
People with aches and pains have found relief with traditional acupuncture as well as with micro-stimulation with modern acupuncture devices. Acupuncture is now widely practised in many hospitals and clinics by physicians, physiotherapists, Sports Medicine specialists and TCM practitioners in pain management, in treating injuries and even in surgeries. Immediate relief can be obtained with acupuncture on common pain and golfing injuries in the elbow, knee, heel, shoulder, neck and fingers. Headaches and Migraine along with several other health conditions have also been effectively treated with acupuncture.
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Cultural Golfing
Hot Spot By Justine Moss
Anvaya Cove Golf & Sports Club
T
he world’s second largest archipelago comprising over 7,000 islands, The Philippines has a colourful history and rich and fertile culture. Like many countries in this region, it’s a destination which will appeal to just about anyone who wants to explore and experience its diverse mix of culture, history, and sites. And for those looking to experience a round of golf or two, the country also has a large number of first class private and public courses to play on either in and around Manila, or further afield taking advantage of the country’s seaside, mountainous and countryside topography. Anvaya Cove Golf & Sports Club The stunning first class 82-hectare layout is an absolute joy to play on, and it’s a course which you will want to play again and again, in particular with its challenges, risk and reward holes, and amazing vista –the back nine holes sweep alongside the West Philippine Sea with views across Subic Bay. Kevin Ramsey, from California-based golf architects Golfplan, started work on the course back in 2006 and it was officially opened at the beginning of December 2013. Ramsey calls the site one of the best he’s ever seen or worked on with it being a real highlight of his career, especially with the special terrain, such as high grasslands, beachside holes and those perched on bluffs.
Eagle Ridge Golf & Country Club This club features four courses designed by Isao Aoki, Andy Dye, Sir Nick Faldo and Greg Norman, so one can easily spend a few days here playing all four a couple of times. Aoki’s does present some challenges for all golfers, and although it has wide-open fairways, the rough is tough and the greens undulating. The Dye course is quite spectacular with it winding through its natural surroundings – the canyon has been fully utilized to enhance the design of each hole. Sir Nick Faldo has created an up and down course that will present a test to golfers of any level – while there are a number of both wide and tight driving holes, he has thought out the bunker placements. The Norman course has been designed for the avid golfers looking to play a serious game and therefore a good understanding of golfing strategy when playing this course will enable you to see the way the holes should be played. Facilities include a clubhouse, pro-shop, function room, hotel, restaurants, tennis and badminton courts, table tennis, basketball, volleyball, bowling, and gymnasium Ph: +6346 686 6761 info@eagle-ridge.com.ph www.eagle-ridge.com.ph
Facilities in the property – which includes the Beach and Nature Club – feature luxurious accommodation, driving range, pro shop, clubhouse, infinity, lap and lounge swimming pools, a private beach, bar, wine room, restaurants, watersport pavilion, beach activities, kids club, nature trails and Spa. Ph.:+63 2 943 4400 Email: golfmembers@anvayacove.com www.anvayacove.com
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Eagle Ridge Golf & Country Club
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
LIFESTYLE
Luisita Golf & Country Club
Mt Malarayat Golf & Country Club
Fairways & Bluewater The largest property in Boracay Island, Fairways & Bluewater features a number of attractions and activities. There is also a Graham Marsh-designed 18-hole championship course and the par-72 golf course has some spectacular views and is an enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities. The par-3 8th is a great hole providing plenty of support to the theory that a hole does not need length to be an excellent challenge. Flag positions in the back left will require caution as the lake to the front and left of the green will act as magnet for those too adventurous. The par-4 18th is a beautiful finishing hole highlighted by tremendous ocean views. The tee shot along the ridge then turns to a downhill second to a green nestled between two natural ridges.
Mt Malarayat Golf & Country Club This 27-hole layout was designed by the J. Michael Poellet Design Group. When it comes to the bunkers there are those which have been designed around the green in addition to fairway bunkers, but some have been placed purely for aesthetic reasons. While it’s a good driving course, you are advised to listen to your caddy on how to play the course. The seventh hole on the Mount Makulot layout and the number nine on the Mount Lobo nine are quite spectacular with their design featuring double doglegs, water, sand and rocks. Facilities include hotel, practice putting greens, driving range, function rooms, Jacuzzi and sauna.
Ph: +63 36 288 5587 reservations@fairwaysandbluewater.com.ph www.fairwaysandbluewater.com.ph
Ph: +63 43 756 7007 golf@malarayat.com www.malarayat.com Sta Elena Golf Club Arguably one of the best in the country, this superb Robert Trent Jones Jr-designed course was built in sugar cane fields south of Manila. The 27-hole facility, consisting of the Makiling, Banahaw and Sierra Madre nines, has wide and narrow fairways, framed by thick vegetation, water hazards, ravines and sand traps so club selection is key. The terrain configuration and the latest technology and equipment mean that players will definitely enjoy their game. The course is one of the best driving courses in the region and there’s a good mix of holes with the longest par-3 measuring 193 metres from the championship tees and the longest par-five at 533 metres. Facilities include clubhouse, putting greens, driving range, putting greens, verandah restaurant and cocktail lounge.
Fairways & Bluewater
Luisita Golf & Country Club This par-72 18-hole golf course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr and is located in Central Luzon. Over the years it has hosted a number of tournaments include the President’s Cup. Most of the 18 holes, including the signature 17th, have water come into play with a winding creek and several lakes so you must have club accuracy during your round, and also have to take the wind into account. Facilities include a bar, restaurant, clubhouse, hotel, pro-shop and driving range.
+63 2 736 4653 staelenagolf@gmail.com www.staelena.com
Ph: +63 45 985 0810 Email: luisita_golf@yahoo.com www.luisitagolf.com Sta Elena Golf Club
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s e i t i l i c a F Golf Course
I
Maintenance Work
n order to produce good playing surface on sensitive play areas such as greens and tee boxes, various cultural practices were carried out to further improve turf quality in the aspects of growth, sustainability and playability. These works include de-thatching, topdressing, needle-tining, rolling, brushing and application of chemcials and fertilisers. Despite the rigorous maintenance efforts, recently some of the Lake course greens have been stricken by fungal disease. The turf maintenance team has been putting in extra effort to contain the spread of the fungi and remedy the situation. Pythium Blight, a very notorious warm season turfgrass disease, has set upon the Lake greens at #6, #7, #10 and Putting Green. The worst hit is green #7.
Hollow-tining of new tee boxes to achieve growth uniformity and levelled surface.
Lake course green profiles have inconsistency of sand depth and sand particle size distribution leading to the susceptibility of the greens towards fungal disease attack. Lake greens are also unable to withstand extreme environmental conditions such as extreme heat as well as extreme dry and wet weather., whereas the Palm course greens are holding well despite changes in weather patterns. Palm greens, although older, were built on better foundations and have better sand consistency in the green profiles. The green turf is more matured though with a mix of various turf cultivars. They are less susceptible to hostile environments and turf growth is more sustainable.
Hollow-tining of Lake Course Putting Green to remove organic materials and open up air space.
On the weak greens in Lake course, the turf team carried out a series of cultural practices, chemical control and turf nutrition programmes. These were in consultation with the Agronomic Laboratory at University of Florida USA and international turf fungicide specialists in their Singapore office. Lake’s weak greens also underwent quarter-inch tine coring work to improve root zone aeration and promote shoot growth. Areas with loss turf received new turf plugs. Specific fungicide and broad spectrum fungicide were applied to control the fungal disease. Mowing height and frequency of mow have been adjusted to facilitate turf growth. The greens have shown signs of improvement.
36
Lake course #7 green worst hit by Pythium Blight fungal disease.
Quarter-inch hollow coring work carried out on Lake greens #1, 6, 7, 10 and PG to promote root and shoot growth.
Lake course green #17 not affected by fungal disease and still producing decent putting surface.
Raffles Connection • Mar - Apr 2017
FACILITIES
Lake Course Cow Grass Eradication It is an on-going exercise on the Lake Course to keep the fairways free from cow grass. We have carried out extensive re-turfing work on Lake Course fairway #6, #11 and #13. Approximately 6,000 square metres of turf were utilised.
Re-turfing work on Lake #10.
Golfers are encouraged not to drive onto new turf area to allow faster turf establishment.
Removal of cow grass from Lake Course #13 fairway. The areas were re-turfed with Zoysia matrella.
Removal of cow grass from Lake Course #6 fairway. The areas were re-turfed with Zoysia matrella.
Bunker Repair Over a period of time, turf on the bunker noses and bunker lips wore off or was damaged due to constant mowing, machinery access and golfers traffic. From time to time, repair work on these areas is necessary to maintain good play conditions. Another cycle of this work has started with priority of green side bunkers.
Lake #18 greenside bunker turf repair on bunker lips.
Bunker nose turf repair. Re-shaped and Re-turfed.
Repair of worn off area at Lake #7 bridge
37
Improvements
around the Club
Old
NEW
New Shoe Washing Guns The Facilities team has replaced all eight sets of the shoe washing gun located at the shoe washing bays after noticing that the tips of the old shoe washing guns were giving way. With the new installation, golfers can now keep their shoes spick-and-span!
Improving Your Experience Around the Club! The Facilities team has replaced the old and rusty fans at Buggy Bay with four brand new KDK 20� wall fans. Hooray to a cooler buggy bay!
Repair of Road Leading to Lake Course For the past few months, a part of the road from the Clubhouse to Lake Course was sunken in. The Facilities team has filled up and evened out the depression. Members can now enjoy a smooth ride to the Lake Course!
38
s
b u l C d e t a i l cal / Affi
Recipro RECIPROCAL CLUBS
AUSTRALIA
Avondale Golf Club New South Wales, Australia Macquarie Links International Golf Club New South Wales, Australia Mount Lawley Golf Club Western Australia, Australia Sanctuary Lakes Club Victoria, Australia St. Michael’s Golf Club New South Wales, Australia Sun City Country Club Western Australia, Australia The Cut Golf Course Western Australia, Australia The Lakes Golf Club Eastlakes, Australia The Links Kennedy Bay Western Australia, Australia The Vines Golf and Country Club Western Australia, Australia The Western Australian Golf Club (Inc) Western Australia, Australia Wanneroo Golf Club Western Australia, Australia
BRUNEI
Pantai Mentiri Golf Club Brunei Darussalam
CHINA
BFA International Convention Center Golf Club Hainan Province, China Guangzhou Foison Golf Club Guangzhou, China Meishi Mayflower International Golf Club Hainan Province, China Shanghai Sun Island International Club Shanghai, China Kunshan Sun Resort & Club Jiangsu Province, China
Tianjin Fortune Lake Golf Club Tianjin, China
The Montgomerie Links Vietnam Quang Name Province, Vietnam
Tianjin Warner International Golf Club Tianjin, China
AFFILIATED CLUBS
INDIA
AUSTRALIA
INDONESIA
BRUNEI
Gunung Geulis Country Club West Java, Indonesia
CAMBODIA
Oxford Golf & Country Club Pune, India
Finna Golf & Country Club East Java, Indonesia
JAPAN
Ashinoko Country Club Shizuoka, Japan
MACAU
Macau Golf & Country Club Macau *Weekday only
MALAYSIA
Glenmarie Golf & Country Club Selangor, Malaysia Kelab Golf Negara Subang Selangor, Malaysia Kelab Golf Sarawak Sarawak, Malaysia Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Golf & Country Club Selangor, Malaysia Kelab Rahman Putra Malaysia Selangor, Malaysia TPC Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Meru Valley Golf & Country Club Perak, Malaysia
Grand Phnom Penh Golf Club Phnom Penh Capital, Cambodia
CHINA
Orient Pearl Golf Club Beijing, China The Dunes Hainan Province Island, China
INDONESIA
Rancamaya Golf & Country Club Ciawi Bogor, Indonesia
JAPAN
Robert Trent Jones II Clubs
MACAU
Macau Golf & Country Club Macau *Weekend only
THAILAND
Blue Canyon Country Club Muang Kaew Golf Club Samutprakarn, Thailand
Chiangmai Highland Spa and Golf Club Chiangmai, Thailand
PHILIPPINES
RESTRICTED LOCAL RECIPROCAL CLUBS**
Alta Vista Golf & Country Club Cebu City, Philippines Eagle Ridge Golf & Country Club General TriasCavite, Philippines
Mission Hills Golf Club Shenzhen, China Nanjing SunIsland Leisure &
VIETNAM
Yangzhou Prime International Vacation Club Co. Ltd Shanghai, China
The Empire Hotel & Country Club Negara Brunei Darussalam
Tropicana Golf & Country Resort Selangor, Malaysia
Suzhou SunIsland International Club Jiangsu Province, China
Resort Club Co. Ltd Jiangsu Province, China
Araluen Country Club Western Australia. Australia
SINGAPORE Keppel Club
Orchid Country Club
Sembawang Country Club
Chi Linh Star Golf & Country Club Hai Duong, Vietnam
Warren Country Club
Long Thanh Golf Club Dong Nai Province, Vietnam
**Booking via club balloting
Seletar Country Club
Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club Hanoi, Vietnam
For more information and assistance, please feel free to call the Golf Reception Counter at 6861 7655 or e-mail: golfrecep@rcc.org.sg
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ry o t c e r i D / s e i t i l i c a F b Clu DIRECTORY Golfing Reception Ms. Maszni Bt. Mamat Golf Administration Officer maszni.mamat@rcc.org.sg 6861 7655 Tournament & Corporate Booking Mr. Yen Yee Kiat Executive (Sales & Marketing) yeekiat.yen@rcc.org.sg 6864 0880
GOLFING
Golfing Operations Mohammed Sufandy Bin Kamis Senior Executive (Golf Operations) fandy.kamis@rcc.org.sg 6864 0846
Golf Reception Tel:6861 7655 / Fax: 6861 5563 Open Daily: 7:00am - 6:30pm Golf Courses – Palm & Lake Open Daily: First tee-off: 7:14am Last tee-off: 6:15pm (9 holes)
F&B / Banquet Jennielyn Suarez jennielyn.suarez@rcc.org.sg 6864 0833
LAKE COURSE Green Fee (Guest) Mon to Fri, am: $117.70 Mon to Fri, pm: $171.20 Weekends & PH: $235.40 Green Fee (Visitor) Mon to Fri, am: $171.20 Mon to Fri, pm: $235.40 Weekends & PH: $374.50 PALM COURSE Green Fee (Guest) Mon to Fri, am: $96.30 Mon to Fri, pm: $139.10 Weekends & PH: $235.40 Green Fee (Visitor) Mon to Fri, am: $149.80 Mon to Fri, pm: $203.30 Weekends & PH: $374.50 Buggy Fee / Golfer $24.61 / 18 holes $13.91 / 9 holes Driving Range Tel: 6861 6563 Opening Hours: Mon: 1:00pm - 9:00pm Tue to Fri: 8:00am - 9:00pm Sat: 7:00am - 9:00pm Sun: 7:00am - 7:00pm PH: 7:00am - 8:00pm Last issue of ball: 45 minutes before closing time Ball Fees $1.46 / 30 balls $2.15 / 50 balls $4.30 /100 balls Pro Shop Tel: 6863 3551 Open Daily: 7:00am - 6:30pm Rental of golf sets is available Palm Halfway House Opening Hours: Mon to Fri: 9:00am - 5:00pm Weekends & PH: 8:15am 5:00pm Changing Room Opening Hours: Daily: 7:00am - 8:00pm
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Lifestyle Mr. Joeness Lamban Executive (Operations) joeness.lamban@rcc.org.sg 6864 0823 Membership Ms. Sau Man Ling Executive (Membership) manling.sau@rcc.org.sg 6864 0812
SPORTS & RECREATION Recreation / Reception Tel: 6861 7649 / Fax: 6862 3965 Open Daily: 8:00am - 9:00pm Jackpot Room Mon - Sun: 11:30am - 8:45pm (Inclusive of public holidays) Card / Mahjong Room Open Daily: 8:00am - 9:00pm Table Fee: $5.35/5 hour/session Guests: $10.70 per entry Fitness Centre Open Daily: 8:00am - 9:00pm Members: FOC Guests: $5.35/guest/day Sauna Open Daily: 8:00am - 9:00pm Members: FOC Guests: $2.14/guest/day Tennis / Squash Courts Open Daily: 8:00am - 9:00pm Court Fee*: $3.21/hour Badminton Court Open Daily: 8:00am - 9:00pm Court Fee*:$10.70/hour Swimming Pool Open Daily: 8:00am - 9:00pm Members: FOC Guests (Mon to Fri): $1.07/guest/day Karaoke Closed on Monday Open Sun, Tue, Wed & Thur: 4:00 - 9:00pm Open Fri & Sat: 4:00 - 11:00pm *No guest rates
FOOD & BEVERAGE Golfers' Terrace Tel: 6861 7649 Open Mon to Fri: 7:00am 8:00pm Weekends & PH: 7:00am - 9:00pm Open to members and golfers only The Albatross Lounge Opening Hours: Tue to Sun & PH: 4:00 - 9:00pm Fri & Sat: 4:00 - 11:00pm Mon Closed Open to members and guests only Available for private function booking Fu Lin Men Chinese Restaurant Tel: 6861 0127 Open Daily: 11:30am - 3:00pm 5:30 - 10:00pm Open to public Fukuya Japanese Restaurant Tel: 6897 1990 Open Daily: 11:30am - 3:00pm 5:30 - 10:00pm Lake Front Restaurant Tel: 6898 4964 Open Daily: 11:30am - 3:00pm 5:30 - 10:00pm
Housekeeping Ms Lim Shu Peng Executive (Housekeeping/M&E) shupeng.lim@rcc.org.sg 6864 0800 Accounts Ms. Magdaline Chin Assistant Manager (Finance) magdaline.chin@rcc.org.sg 6864 0808 PR & Communications Ms. Relle Lee Executive (PR & Communications) relle.lee@rcc.org.sg 6864 0816 Golf Course Maintenance Mr. Chua Kiat Beng M&E Superintendent kb.chua@rcc.org.sg 6861 2725 Human Resource Ms. Lisa Wan Assistant Manager (Human Resource) lisa.wan@rcc.org.sg 6864 0818 website: www.rcc.org.sg email: feedback@rcc.org.sg
SET LUNCH AT $9.80NETT! LAKEFRONT’S 3-COURSE CHEF SPECIALS AVAILABLE DAILY FROM 11.30 AM TO 3PM
NT LAKEFARNO T & PUB
FISH & CHIPS
RESTAUR
MING POOL
BESIDE SWIM
PAN-SEARED BONELESS CHICKEN
SPAGHETTI AGLIO OLIO LAKEFRONT RESTAURANT & PUB T: 6898 4964 LEVEL 1 RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB. 450 JALAN AHMAD IBRAHIM S 639932.