Raffles Connection (July - August 2017) by Raffles Country Club

RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB NEWSLETTER | July - August 2017

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a g p n i o S r e! 2 5

Raffles Country Club Singapore www.rcc.org.sg

Vol

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

Karaoke Competition

Staff News

An Adventure Down-Under

Extraordinary General Meeting

Final Birthday Celebration at RCC 30

Rejuvenate to help you feel and look younger 32

The GM with a Heart FOOD & BEVERAGES

Speeding Up the Game

F&B Report by Chairman, FBSC

GOLF

GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE Lake Course Greens Improvement

Monthly Medals

Ladies Bogey Competition

Committees' Day

Tanjong Puteri

The Future of Golf Training in Singapore

FACILITIES

Treasurer Chairman of Finance Mr Tom Yeo Secretary Mr John Goh Chairman of Communications & Information Ms Cheong Yoke Keng Chairman of Facilities & Estate Mr Hoe Boon Leong Chairman of Lifestyle & Social Mr Phee Thian Chye Member Mr Henry Ho

MANAGEMENT

Improvements around the Club 38

Captain Chairman of Golfing & Greens Mr Sebastian Song

General Manager Farrock Ebrahim farrock.ebrahim@rcc.org.sg 6864 0889 Finance Manager Anthony Low anthony.low@rcc.org.sg 6864 0828 Course Superintendent Christine Chung christine.chungbhivat@rcc.org.sg 6861 2725

Golfing Operations Manager Ng Yuk Fong yukfong.ng@rcc.org.sg 6864 0836 F&B/Lifestyle Manager Dave Chiang dave.chiang@rcc.org.sg 6864 0863 Sales & Marketing/ Communications Manager Joanne Ng joanne.ng@rcc.org.sg 6864 0838

Facilities Manager Kevin Kwan kevin.kwan@rcc.org.sg 6864 0883

EDITORIAL BOARD Raffles Connection is published by: Raffles Country Club, 450 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore 639932 l www.rcc.org.sg MCI (P) 104/04/2017 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.

Chairman Cheong Yoke Keng Editor Justine Moss Members Ven Sreenivasan Edmond Ang Nina Koh Joanne Ng Relle Lee

s ' t n e d i s Pre ge

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

Messa

I would like to update members that the General Committee (GC) and Management have been engaged with the valuers, Knight Frank, in putting together the compensation package for the acquisition of the Club. We had several meetings with Knight Frank to go through all the relevant data and figures, and for us to put together a compensation package that is supported by all the necessary documentation and statistics for the consideration of the Singapore Land Authority. We have made several revisions to the compensation and we are confident that we will arrive at the final proposed compensation package soon. On a good note, I would like to inform members that the Registry of Societies (ROS) has informed us that they have approved the amendment of our Constitution with the addition of rule 34.5, which was approved by members at the recent EOGM held on 7 April 2017. Just to recap the new rule reads as follows: “The General Committee shall have the power to pay to Members such sum out of the accumulated surplus of the Club as the General Committee may determine in its discretion, with such payment subject to Members’ further approval at a General Meeting as to the entitlement of each member thereof.” The Raffles Charity 2017 will soon be upon us. Although I am happy that the Club is once again staging this important and prestigious event, I am saddened that this will be our last charity event. It will be the Club’s last contribution to the beneficiaries that we have supported for so many years. The Raffles Charity 2017 will be held on 1 and 2 July 2017. The Organising Committee, chaired by our GC member Henry Ho, has worked hard

to make this a fun-filled event. For those who have donated in kind or who have signed up for flights to enjoy this event, I would like to say a big ‘Thank You’. Your generosity will go a long way in helping the needy. I would like to take this opportunity to touch on dangerous play. The Club takes dangerous play cases seriously. The Disciplinary Committee and the GC will not hesitate to pass on the appropriate sentences for dangerous play, especially in cases where the ball strikes a fellow golfer. Therefore I sincerely request that members be patient and wait till the front flight is completely out of the way before taking your shot. We have limited time to enjoy our golf courses and Club facilities, so please don’t let dangerous play cause you any loss of use of the Club facilities. The Management, together with the F&B sub-committee, has been working hard in increasing the “fun” factor at the Golfers’ Terrace (GT) and Atrium area by including a live band and beer promotions on Saturday nights, which ended in May. Recently the GT has started introducing hawker style food carts with live food preparations for members’ enjoyment. Please support these initiatives by staying back to enjoy the food. We are continuing with our robust maintenance programmes for our golf courses. The improving greens on Lake is one example. We will also continue to focus on Palm. Our Course Superintendent Christine Chung, will start work on hollow tining and top dressing the soggy areas on the fairways to increase playability at these areas. Please bear with us while this work is in progress and thank you for your patience and support.

Paul Singh President

On a good note, I would like to inform members that the Registry of Societies (ROS) has informed us that THEY HAVE

APPROVED THE AMENDMENT OF OUR CONSTITUTION with the addition of rule 34.5...

Ciao for now.

n a m r i a h C CISC

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

e g a s s e M

It is a pleasure for me to finally pen a personal message to you as the Chairman of Communications & Information Sub-Committee. A few months ago, I was presented with the RCC 20th Anniversary Coffee Table Book by a fellow member. She was very thoughtful. She must have been thinking that being a GC member, I ought to know more about the history and the earlier happenings of the Club. Indeed I enjoyed going through the coffee table book, which was called "20 years and swinging”. Established as a proprietary club on 1 July 1988, RCC hosted many glorious events such as the first professional golf tournament, Yokohoma Tyre Open in July 1990, the Singapore Ladies Amateur Open Golf Championship in September 1993, the 53rd Singapore Open Amateur Championship in September 2000 and the 14th Asia Pacific Senior Amateur Golf Championship in September 2004, just to name a few. It was on 1 June 2001 that the Club became a members’ club, with its first AGM taking place in September a few months later. After acceptance has set in from the onset of the announcement of the Club closure in end July 2018, it dawned on me that we have to document the RCC legacy for posterity. RCC has affected many lives and has also given life to many golf enthusiasts like myself. Hence it is with much vigour

and resolution that I have taken on the task of creating a coffee table book to mark the closure of our beloved club, which coincidentally will be its 30th anniversary. The book is timely and will be a precious farewell gift presented to all members and staff. It is with the GC’s blessings that the Communications & Information SubCommittee take on this project. Having a coffee table book to document the Club’s 30 years existence is not going to be easy. Hence I will need all the help I can get. Many lives have been touched by this club and I would like those who have stories to share about RCC to come forward and share these wonderful memories with us. This month, we will be launching "Share your RCC Memory" contest (refer to inside front cover) to encourage members to share with us their good experiences, interesting encounters, golfing snippets, etc; and if found suitable, these stories and accounts will be documented in the coffee table book. I urge all members to come forward, especially those who have been with the Club during its formative years, to recount for the benefit of all. All entries will receive two buggy vouchers and the person who submits the best story will win a RCC golf bag and three weekday complimentary vouchers! We look forward to hearing from you!

Cheong Yoke Keng Chairperson of Communications & Information Sub-Committee

RCC has affected many lives and HAS

ALSO GIVEN LIFE TO MANY GOLF ENTHUSIASTS LIKE MYSELF.

Snapsh ts RCC vs WAGC: 3 May 2017 G’Day Mates! RCC welcomed reciprocal club, Western Australian Golf Club, with fresh coconuts and beaming smiles on 3 May 2017, and hosted a friendly game for over 40 players at the challenging Palm course. The visitors from down under thoroughly enjoyed the stimulating layout as well as the fun novelties planned at the course – Nearest the Zig-zag Line - as well as the dinner and karaoke session that took place at Albatross after the game. Judging by the smiles all around at the end of the evening, we are sure everyone had a great time! Lake Hole 9

Dummy Bird at Atrium If you are observant enough, you will spot a bird “in flight” at the Atrium; but hang on, it is actually a stationary bird hanging in mid-air. The facilities team has installed this dummy bird at the Atrium in an attempt to deter birds that are drawn by the leftover food at Golfers’ Terrace. And surprisingly, it works! Keep an eye out for the floating bird the next time you are here at the Club!

It’s “Sakura” Season at RCC! Family Name: Bignoniaceae Synonyms: Tabebuia pentaphylla Common Names: Pink Poui, Rosy Trumpet Tree, Pink Tecoma, Pink Poui, Trumpet Tree, New World Trumpet It is spring time at Raffles Country Club and the scenic Lake course is never more beautiful and alluring! A few trumpet trees have sunk its roots deep into the golf course and bestowed upon us its spectacular pink and white blossoms during the drier months of April and August. With a potential to reach a grand height of 35 metres, you can catch the next flowering season in August! Enjoy the current pink and white blossoms while they last.

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

CLUB NEWS

New Staff

Dave Chiang

F&B/Lifestyle Manager Dave Chiang joined RCC in March 2017. He brings with him 25 years of food and beverage experience from the hotel and club industries. Some of the hotels that he has worked with are Inter-Continental Hotel, Hilton and Holiday Inn; and the local clubs have been Laguna National Golf & Country Club, Singapore Recreation Club and Singapore Island Country Club. Adding to his wealth of experience, Dave has also done several overseas F&B stints in China, Malaysia and Brunei as well as onboard a cruise ship. The most recent was as a Director of Food & Beverage in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. We are sure the Golfers’ Terrace will gain from Dave’s knowledge and experience. In his spare time, the well-travelled Dave enjoys travelling and also scouting around for good food. It looks like Dave builds his career around what he loves to do. Indeed that is the way to a fulfilling life.

The Great RCC Walk

eady, get set, GO!

It was eight years ago that the Club organized its last Staff Walk on the golf course. On 22 May 2017, the Club reintroduced the RCC Staff Walk. It was a great day for a walk after a short morning heavy downpour. With the Lake course closed for maintenance, the coast was clear for a scenic walk. The staff looked forward to a break from their daily work routine, for a breath of fresh air and a chance to break out in perspiration, which the latter is hailed as a health benefit. Sweating helps to improve blood circulation and expel toxins from the body. Above all this, it was an opportunity to chase away the Monday blues and create bonding among the staff. At 4.30pm that afternoon, twelve fitness enthusiasts gathered at the meeting point below the swimming pool area. After a short warm-up, the happy group set off, with some jogging and some brisk walking.

Everyone completed the 3.5km route in high spirits and in just one hour. Those who returned earlier were seen engaged in animated banter and helping themselves to fruits that were prepared in advance. And yes, there was a race! Congratulations to Magdaline Chin from Finance who came in first place. Do not underestimate this petite lady. Not only is she quick with her numbers, she’s equally quick with her feet! Coming in second was Lisa Wan from Human Resources and a close third was Khristine Perez from Golf Course Maintenance; and the Best-Dressed went to Tey Yee Han from Human Resources. Three cheers for everyone for their keen participation and for making this event happen. We certainly look forward to more healthy bonding sessions for staff before we say good bye to this beautiful place!

Extraordinary General Meeting 7 April 2017

s promised at the last Town Hall Meeting on 17 March 2017, the Extraordinary General Meeting (EOGM) took place in less than a month, on 7 April 2017. The land acquisition by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail, Cross Island MRT Lineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Western Depot and other transport related uses was announced by the SLA on 4 January 2017. This has set in motion a chain of events that will ultimately lead to the closure of the Club in July 2018. The EOGM was initiated for all members to consider and, if deem fit, to pass five resolutions in accordance with Rule 30.11 of the Club Constitution. During the meeting, there were some questions raised by the members on consultantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fees and the compensation to members. The GC assured all who were present that proper due diligence was done before the consultants were appointed given the urgency of the matter. As for the issue of compensation, the GC informed members that Knight Frank has been told to ensure that the claim has to be exhaustive, we must leave no stones unturned when the deadline to submit our claims to the collector is due. Through the votes cast, members have overwhelmingly given a strong mandate for the GC to do the needful in the months ahead; and all the five resolutions were passed.

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

CLUB NEWS

Resolution 1 To authorise the General Committee to take such steps and do all things as may be necessary to achieve a maximum compensation outcome for RCC in respect of the acquisition of RCC’s land on 4 January 2017.

For Against

Spoilt votes

Total no. of votes cast

169

For

152

Resolution 2 To ratify the following appointments: (a) RAJAH & TANN SINGAPORE LLP as legal advisors to the General Committee on such terms and for such fees as the General Committee may in its discretion agree, and to utilise the amount of up to but not exceeding S$400,000 for the payment of said fees. (b) KNIGHT FRANK PTE LTD as valuation consultants to the General Committee on the following terms: (i) Basic fee of S$100,000 plus GST to provide a property valuation report for submission to the Collector of Land Revenue as the basis of RCC’s claim for compensation. (ii) In the event of an appeal against the Collector’s Award, fees on the following tiered basis (excluding GST and subject to minimum fee of S$25,000): Collector’s Supplemental Award (SA)

Fees payable (percentage of SA)

First S$5 million

S$300,000 + 5%

Next S$5 million First S$10 million Above S$10 million

162

Against

Spoilt votes

Total no. of votes cast

170

For

163

S$550,000 + 4%

Resolution 3 WHEREAS it is noted that the land held by RCC as beneficial owner under a lease was compulsorily acquired by the Government on 4 January 2017, AND the acquisition of the Club’s land has caused the Club to be unable to provide premier Golf and Country Club facilities to its Members, AND consequently the Members have claims against the Club (“Claims”), it is hereby resolved as follows: a) To authorise the General Committee to take such steps and do all things as may be necessary to achieve an equitable distribution of compensation to Members in respect of their Claims, and to utilise the amount of up to but not exceeding S$250,000 to engage such consultants or such service providers to advise and assist the General Committee in this regard. b) As a partial and interim compensation in respect of Claims arising from the anticipated loss of use of the Club’s facilities, and in furtherance thereof, to approve an amendment to the Constitution in the form of a new Rule 34.5 in the following terms: “34.5 The General Committee shall have the power to pay to Members such sum out of the accumulated surplus of the Club as the General Committee may determine in its discretion, with such payment subject to Members’ further approval at a General Meeting as to the entitlement of each Member thereof.” c) That any member of RCC who is a Defaulter within the meaning of rule 35.5 of RCC’s Constitution shall, upon ceasing to be a Member of the club within the meaning of rule 35.6, lose all rights of membership including any right to receive compensation that may be paid or payable in relation to the acquisition of RCC’s land.

Against

Spoilt votes

Total no. of votes cast

169

For

162

Resolution 4 To authorise the General Committee to utilise monies from the Club’s Sinking Fund for operational and other ongoing expenses of RCC at its discretion.

Against

Spoilt votes

Total no. of votes cast

Resolution 5 That the sum of up to S$5,000,000.00 be set aside from the funds of RCC for the payment of For Staff Compensation and Retention package. Against Spoilt votes Total no. of votes cast

169 154 8 7 169

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

CLUB NEWS

The GM with a

CC’s General Manager Farrock Ebrahim was presented with the Medal of Commendation Award from National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) on 13 May 2017, during the May Day Awards Ceremony held at Orchid Country Club. The Attractions, Resorts & Entertainment Union (AREU) was only allowed one submission and Farrock was selected for his efforts as the General Manager of Jurong Country Club (JCC) that closed its doors on 31 Dec 2016. Farrock was rewarded for his commitment to workers’ welfare, helping them secure an inclusive retrenchment package, assisting them to utilise training grants and organising a job fair to help them find employment. Farrock was among 20 recipients within NTUC to receive this award. This award is conferred on Senior Management - CEO and Deputy CEO levels – who, besides promoting good industrial relations and initiating workers’ training and skills upgrading programmes, also supported NTUC initiatives such as union membership growth, workers’ welfare and re-employment initiatives.

Heart Besides ensuring staff had a reasonable retrenchment package, Farrock went beyond industry practices to upskill and improve staff’s employability. The staff were also made to feel appreciated through staff appreciation events so that they stayed motivated till the end. The three-day job fair that was initiated was especially noteworthy in that it helped make the job search easier for staff, as prospective employers were brought to the staff and interviews conducted on site. Periodic joint union-management communication sessions were done to reassure staff and keep their morale high. And, thanks to Farrock, free union membership was also extended to the staff so that they could continue to enjoy the privileges and insurance coverage even though they were no longer with the club. Indeed Farrock had the best interests of the JCC staff at heart; and at RCC, where the staff are also facing the same fate, RCC staff can be assured of a similar, if not better, retrenchment package.

(Footnote: The land acquisition announcement of the land site at Jurong Country Club (JCC) by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) given in May 2015 was to make way for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail Terminus. The land occupied by JCC was handed over to the SLA in February 2017.)

e g a r e v e Food & B

F&B Report by Chairman, F&B Sub-Committee

2016/2017

The main objectives of 2016/2017 F&B Sub-Committee (FBSC) are to cut down on food wastage and food costs, to improve on food quality, food variety and to reduce the big financial loss of the previous two years. I am pleased to report that we have managed to meet all of the above objectives favourably and have taken further steps to introduce live band music on weekends, special beer promotions, new food dishes and Hawker Fare Promotions to attract greater Member patronage at our Golfersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Terrace (GT).

hese achievements would not have been possible without the great effort and contributions from members of the FBSC, the F&B Management team and the F&B staff. Special appreciation goes to the hard work put in by Patrick Low, Albert Tan and Peter Tan of FBSC, the General Manager, Farrock Ebrahim, Finance Manager, Anthony Low and HR Manager, Lisa Wan, whom all have helped to recruit new staff at a record pace when 10 of our F&B staff resigned between February and May this year. Resignations included the F&B Manager, Assistant Restaurant Manager and Senior Sous Chef. We also wish to acknowledge that President Paul Singh, has been helping us to reorganise our F&B Operations at the initial stages and has been a great mentor and supporter of our strategies and action plans. Unfortunately, Albert Tan and Charles Chua have resigned from FBSC due to their work commitments and frequent business travels. As of June 2017, we have the full complement of the F&B team and also new additions to the FBSC, namely Huang Ching Lian and Kleio Park, replacing Albert and Charles. The new F&B Staff team comprising kitchen and service crew are now more cohesive and working well together under the leadership of the new F&B Manager, Dave Chiang. On 1 June 2017, we also had Lawrance So join us as the new Assistant Restaurant Manager.

Oyster Omelette

Nonya Laksa

Raffles Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Jul - Aug 2017

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Popiah

Much as we would like to make Members happier by giving away more perks such as the $20 GT vouchers (costing $52,000 per issue), more live band performances ($600 per night) and beer promotions which resulted in substantial loss in GT revenue over the period of promotion, we have to watch our budget closely so as not to overspend. What we earn will eventually go back to Members and likewise, what we spend will have to be taken out of our revenue. To maintain our quality of food and service, we are unable to lower our prices (some Members have asked for a 50% Discount on our food and beverage prices). Higher salaries were being offered to attract and retain employees due to the short period of time remaining for the GT to operate. Gas, Water & Electricity bills as well as repairs and maintenance bills have shot up significantly over the budget and above last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expenses. All this is beyond our control.

We are encouraged by Members who have complimented us on the vast improvements that they have witnessed over the past few months and have also taken note of the various suggestions they have offered for further improvements.

However, despite all the above increases in expenses, we are still performing well financially in the overall F&B Operations, working towards breaking even or even a slight overall surplus for the next financial year 2017/2018.

Loh Kum Chuen, Vice-President & Chairman, F&B Sub-Committee, 2016-2018

So far, all Members we have spoken to have been very appreciative of the steps taken by the GC in removing the Minimum Spending Levy, suspending the Monthly Subscription and distributing the $20 GT Vouchers, although some Members suggested giving $30 to $50 GT vouchers in future. Thank you RCC Members, the Management and staff for your trust and support in our F&B Operations! Best regards,

Golf

Monthly May 2017

Medals

RESULTS

Saturday, 6 May 2017 Format : Strokeplay, Palm Course

‘A’ DIV. MEN’S MAY 2017

‘A’ DIV. LADIES’ MAY 2017 Best Nett: Jessie Oh HI: 11.2, 76 Nett Best Gross: Jennifer Tan HI: 14.4, 97 Gross Ocb

Bryan Chen

Samir Bedi

Lau Wing Cheok

Best Nett: Bryan Chen, HI: 9.3, 69 Nett Best Gross: Samir Bedi, HI: 2.7, 74 Gross. Runner-Up Nett: Lau Wing Cheok, HI: 8.6, 70 Nett Ocb

Jessie Oh

Jennifer Tan

‘B’ DIV. LADIES’ MAY 2017 Best Nett: Linda Yeo HI: 19.9, 75 Nett Best Gross: Chen-Horng Hwa HI: 20.7, 103 Gross

‘B’ DIV. MEN’S MAY 2017

Linda Yeo

Mark Oh

Vince Wong

Dave Wang

Best Nett: Mark Oh, HI: 11.9, 70 Nett Ocb Best Gross: Vince Wong, HI: 13.7, 87 Gross Runner-Up Nett: Dave Wang, HI: 15.5, 70 Nett

Chen-Horng Hwa

NEAREST THE PIN Hole no. 3:

Samir Bedi (15998) 1.1 m

Hole no. 7:

Lin Yan (15891) 1.5 m

Hole no. 12: David Soh (13215) 2 m Hole no. 17: Kim Sang Ik (32793) 7 m

‘C’ DIV. MEN’S MAY 2017 Best Nett: Kwoh Kok Kiong HI: 24.0, 66 Nett Best Gross: Huang Ching Lien HI: 20.7, 91 Gross

Kwoh Kok Kiong

Huang Ching Lien

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

GOLF

June 2017 RESULTS

Saturday, 3 Jun 2017 Format : Stableford, Lake Course

‘A’ DIV. MEN’S JUNE 2017

‘A’ DIV. LADIES’ JUNE 2017 Winner: Maria Teo HI: 15.1, 37 Pts Runner-up: Sara Lew HI: 15.9, 36 Pts

Zames Lee

Lau Wing Cheok

Bryan Chen

Winner: Zames Lee, HI: 8.6, 43 Pts 1st Runner-up: Lau Wing Cheok, HI: 8.4, 41 Pts 2nd Runner-up: Bryan Chen, HI: 9.5, 38 Pts

Maria Teo

Sara Lew

‘B’ DIV. LADIES’ JUNE 2017 Winner: Lim Boon Eng HI: 26.9, 38 Pts Runner-up: Doris Wong HI: 20.8, 37 Pts Ocb

‘B’ DIV. MEN’S JUNE 2017 Lim Boon Eng Doris Wong

Tan Wei Ming Alan Koh

Chua Heng Ann

Winner: Tan Wei Ming, HI: 17.8, 42 Pts 1st Runner-up: Alan Koh, HI: 16.5, 40 Pts Ocb 2nd Runner-up: Chua Heng Ann, HI: 17.5, 40 Pts

NEAREST THE PIN Hole no. 2:

Ben Chua (15799) 1.2 m

Hole no. 8:

David Wong (30972) 0.7 m

Hole no. 14: Ian Kim (34671) 1.9 m Hole no. 16: Agnes Tay (14908) 1.4 m

‘C’ DIV. MEN’S JUNE 2017 Winner: Ng Song Cheng HI: 20.3, 43 Pts Runner-up: Huang Ching Lien HI: 20.2, 41 Pts

Ng Song Cheng

Huang Ching Lien

Hole In One

Achievers

Charles Lim (13313) Lake Hole 8 8 April 2017

Roy Ng Khiang Khoon (11761) Lake Hole 14 26 April 2017

Loo Liat Wang Lim Jit Min (15131) Palm Hole 17 28 May 2017

(15119) Lake Hole 2 28 May 2017

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

GOLF

Upcoming

Club

Competitions July 2017

1 & 2 July 2017 • Raffles Charity 2017, Lake & Palm, AM & PM Session

8 July 2017 • July Monthly Medal, Palm PM

8, 15,16, & 29 July 2017

• Men’s Club Championship • Men’s Intermediate Championship and Aruan Cup • Ladies’ Club Championship and Intermediate Championship

22 July 2017 • Anniversary Cup in conjunction with Prize Presentation, Lake PM – Shotgun

23 July 2017 • SGA ICL 2017 - Palm PM

25 - 27 July 2017 • National Ranking Game 2017 2nd Leg, Palm AM

August 2017 5 August 2017

• August Monthly Medals, Lake PM

9 August 2017 • National Day Golf Competition, Lake AM - Shotgun

16 August 2017 • Ladies Greensome, Lake PM

20 August 2017 • Interclub Game – KGNS, Lake AM - Shotgun 17

Your G lf

Calendar

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

Raffles Charity Day, Lake & Palm, AM & PM Session

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

SATURDAY Raffles Charity Day, Lake & Palm, AM & PM Session

Palm Course Closed Whole Day

Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

Lake Course Closed AM Only Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

July Monthly Medals, Palm PM 1st Rd - Club Championship, Intermediate & Aruan Cup (Men) 1st Rd - Club Championship & Intermediate (Ladies)

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

3rd Rd - Club Championship (Men)

SGA ICL 2017 Palm PM

Palm Course Closed Whole Day

Private Competition, Palm PM Shotgun

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

Lake Course Closed Whole Day National Ranking Game 2017 2nd Leg, Palm AM Regular Tee Off

Palm Course Closed Whole Day

Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

National Ranking Game 2017 2nd Leg, Palm AM Regular Tee Off Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

Private Competition, Palm AM Regular Tee Off - 8 flights

Lake Course Closed AM Only Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

Private Competition, Palm PM Regular Tee Off - 8 flights

National Ranking Game 2017 2nd Leg, Palm AM Regular Tee Off

Lake Course Closed AM Only

2nd Rd - Club Championship (Men) 2nd Rd - Intermediate Championship & Aruan Cup (Men) 2nd Rd - Club Championship & Intermediate (Ladies)

RCC Anniversary Cup in conjunction with Prize Presentation, Lake PM Shotgun

Final Round - Club Championship & Intermediate & Aruan Cup (Men) Final Round - Club Championship & Intermediate (Ladies)

August Monthly Medals, Lake PM

Palm Course Closed Whole Day

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

Interclub Game KGNS , Lake AM Shotgun

Palm Course Closed Whole Day

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

Palm Course Closed Whole Day

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

Palm Course Closed Whole Day

Public Holiday National Day National Day Golf Competition, Lake AM Shotgun

Ladies Greensome, Lake PM

Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

Lake Course Closed Whole Day

Lake Course Closed AM Only Private Competition, Lake PM Shotgun

Private Competition, Lake PM Regular Tee Off - 8 flights

Lake Course Closed AM Only

*Calendar is accurate as of 1st Jun 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

Raffles Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Jul - Aug 2017

GOLF

Ladies Bogey Competition 22 April 2017

n Saturday, 22 April 2017, a wave of pink flooded the beautiful Lake Course at RCC. The Ladies Bogey Competition is an annual event for all female members. This year, all the participants were decked in pretty pink from top to toe as part of the theme. A delicious buffet spread awaited the ladies in pink at the end of the golf game. Local delights such as savoury and spicy laksa were served, together with a variety of finger food. It was indeed a treat for all for a game well played. Aside from the wonderful camaraderie evident among all the ladies during the golf game, almost all the participants went home a winner! Not only were the merit winners awarded with prizes, winners of the lucky draw, novelty games as well as the best-dressed contest also went home laden with prizes and their stomachs full!

Results

Saturday, 22nd April 2017 Format : Strokeplay Lake Course

Winner : Agnes Tay 1st Runner-up : Doris Wong 2nd Runner-up : Norlia Embong

14908 (HI : 14.3) 30091 (HI : 23.4) 1374002 (HI : 11.2)

Best Dressed 1st : Michelle Ang 15017 2nd : Candy Teh 15630 Nearest the Pin at Hole 14 : Jenny Kim 3467102

+6 +5 OCB +5

1.2m

Committees' Day 13 May 2017

n annual event created to honour the Captain of RCC, this year’s Captain’s Day was renamed “Committees’ Day”. Finally, we have an event to honour and recognise the volunteers who have sacrificed their time and efforts to build a better RCC for everyone. Held on Saturday 13 May, the inaugural Committees’ Day was played on the scenic Lake course. The event featured an interesting segment where players ‘earned’ a sticker whenever their ball landed on the hazard zones. The player with the most stickers pasted on their shirts at the end of the game wins the ‘honourable’ title of the Most Hazardous Player! By the end of the game, many players resembled a sticker book with the many colourful stickers pasted all over their bodies. It was indeed a sight to behold! We cannot imagine if this game was played at the more challenging Palm course! Congratulations to George Lee Poh Huat for emerging winner of the ‘honourable’ award! During dinner, there were prizes galore! These included the merit winners where Toh Kian Chye came in first, lucky draw winners, as well as the Most Hazardous Player. The night was made even better by the dinner spread and the entertainment. Although we had a live band, the sporting members took to the stage and entertained fellow members. It was heartening to see everyone having a great time.

The event certainly befits our generous volunteers who have selflessly put in their time and effort into making our Club a better one. Here’s a huge ‘Thank You’ to all Committee members for all their self-sacrificing contributions!

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

GOLF

Results

Saturday, 13th May 2017 Format : Individual Stableford Lake Course Novelty – Most Hazardous Player

Merit 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

(Player who gets his/her golf ball into the most number of hazards)

: Toh Kian Chye 46 pts : Nina Koh 45 pts Ocb : Tan Joo Ee 45 pts : Huang Ching Lien 44 pts : Raymond Tian Hao 43 pts Ocb

1st 2nd 3rd

: George Lee Poh Huat : Peter Tan Peng Khoon : Eddie Wong

Lucky Draw (Top 10, total 18 prizes) NOVELTY 1st : Cheong Yoke Keng 2nd : Ng Teck Chew 3rd : Huang Ching Lien 4th : Raymond Tian Hao 5th : James Tan Kheng Hoe

6th 7th 8th 9th 10th

: Hao Xiaoming : George Lee Poh Huat : Frederick Quek : Yeo Bee Kheng : Eddie Sua Kim Yang

Special Draw : Peter Tan Peng Khoon

A Day of

Fun at

Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort

n 8 June 2017, Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort (TPGR) hosted 40 RCC members and some friends to a day of fun golfing.

A luxury 36-seater coach arrived at RCC at 9.am on that morning to pick up the excited party. A total of 35 RCC members were ferried across the causeway while another five made their own way to TPGR by car. The group arrived in TPGR at noon after a slight delay at the immigration checkpoints and was warmly received by the friendly club staff and the General Manager, Benjamin Tan. The group was ushered to After 18 for lunch where a brief introduction of the club was given. The makan kecil, consisting of chicken rice, vegetables and soup, was small but yet sufficient to fill everyone up and provide the energy needed for the afternoon’s game. After lunch, the group set off to the Plantation course – one of the club’s three 18-hole courses - for a 9-hole shotgun tee-off at 1.15pm. Everyone was surprised to learn that TPGR had specially arranged a friendly competition for visitors using the System 36 format. The Plantation course has been cleverly designed without disturbing its natural surroundings. Many professional golfers have proclaimed that playing at Plantation was the best golfing experience in South Malaysia. It is literally what its name suggests - a plantation! As the golfer meanders through the course in his buggy, he will notice that the fairways are peppered with palm and fruit trees. Be awed by the many mango, jackfruit, rambutan and durian trees at holes 4, 6, 7, 14, 15 and 17. The happy group - this one’s for the album!

After five hours of play, the golfers could be seen returning to the clubhouse sweltering in the afternoon heat. A quick shower later, the group adjourned to the poolside Open Terrace for dinner at 6.30pm. Dinner was an Asian-Western fusion buffet spread - delicious and varied. Prizes were given out to the winners of the friendly competition, sponsored by TPGR. By 7:20pm, with stomachs full, the satiated party bade their farewells to the hospitable host and was homeward-bound. Judging from the smiles and laughter all around, it was evident everyone had a wonderful time that day. ExCaptain, Patrick Low, who was also the Champion of the friendly golf competition, agreed that “everyone was happy” and that the RCC members were given special treatment by the TPGR staff. “All staff were keen to impress us,” he quipped. Club Vice President, KC Loh, also admitted he had a wonderful time at TPGR and praised the TPGR team for their warm welcome and efforts in ensuring the RCC visitors had a good time. Special thanks goes to Lee Yuke Lan, member of Lifestyle & Social Sub-committee, for helping to round up the group and for making this event possible. RCC also wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation to TPGR for organising this event for RCC and for making the group feel like VIPs for the day! Some of the visitors were new to TPGR and some had not been to the club for many years and this event gave them the opportunity to experience TPGR and its warm hospitality.

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

GOLF

Winners of the day unite! The Champion Patrick Low, (2nd from right), in second position Shirley Tan (3rd from right), followed by Pierre Chong (in yellow pants) in third position, Ben Liang (3rd from left) coming in fourth and Mark Ong (2nd from left) in fifth position. The group is flanked by VP, KC Loh (left) and TPGR GM, Benjamin Tan (right).

The affable KC Loh giving a ‘thank you” speech to TPGR for hosting the visitors from RCC.

Happy to be here!

Lunch and club introduction at After 18.

“Three Cheers to Yuke Lan for bringing us here!” Lee Yuke Lan (in the forefront).

We promised to meet aga

in and true to our words, we

did!

For those who would like to sign up for the Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort membership or want to know more about their golf and staycation promotions, please contact: 07-25966148 or alice@tpgr.com.

A MULTIPLE AWARD WINNING GOLF RESORT

Life and Leisure at Tropicana Golf & Country Resort is fully self contained. With a 450,000 sq ft clubhouse, the heart of the resort is set admist the rolling greenery and adjacent is the award winning 27- hole of the East and West golf course to delight the avid golfers day and night. Additional facilities such as medical facilities, Five (5) International restaurants, shopping, sports amenities, Twelve (12) lane bowling alley, Olympic-sized swimming pool, ballrooms and simply wide open spaces to rest the mind. At Tropicana Golf & Country Resort, living and city convenience converge seamlessly. We invite you to join us.

SGD

Family Golf Membership Single Golf Membership

Price shown above are inclusive of 6% GST Valid until 31st July 2018

21,000 15,000

*Terms & conditions apply

For enquiries, please contact Membership Office :

+6012 3265228 (Ms.Vivian Ho) +603 7804 8888 ext 156 / 208

Email : membership1@tropicanacorp.com.my TROPICANA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT BERHAD (203361-T) Jalan Kelab Tropicana Tropicana Golf & Country Resort 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel : +603 7804 8888 Fax : +603 7804 3688 www.tropicanagolf.com Ref no : 1-2017-mem-tgcr

tropicanagolf

Award Winning

As Malaysia’s largest Clubhouse, it has been serving members and residents since March 1994 and garnered among other awards, the highly regarded Bloomberg Best Golf Development Award with highest Five-Star rating in Malaysia & Asia Pacific and Best Clubhouse Facilities Award in Golf Malaysia Readers’ Poll. Since operating, Tropicana Golf & Country Resort has achieved prestigious awards such as the ParGolf People’s Choice Award 2017 Top 3 Best Clubhouse, Best Greens, Best F&B Golfer’s Terrace and Best Halfway Hut. Golf Magazine Malaysia 2016 Top 10 Best Courses, Rated No.2. Lifestyle Expatriate Best of Malaysia 2016 “Best Golf Experience”, Asian Golf Awards Top 10 Best Course in Malaysia 2015, The Brand Laureate Best Award, Most Celebrated Brand Award category for Lifestyle Golf 2015-2016 and HAPA (Malaysian Series) for Golf Excellence, Exhilarating Experience 2013 - 2015.

Raffles Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Jul - Aug 2017

GOLF

The Future of Golf Training In Singapore By Chris Marriott, Head Professional, Raffles Country Club

aving coached golf in Singapore for more than 16 years, from the novice golfer through to the elite national teams and tournament professionals, the question I have often pondered isâ&#x20AC;Ś..how can we break down all barriers in the game of golf, such as time, weather, access and intimidation? Although the concept has not taken flight yet in Singapore, the option of indoor golf lessons and practice has emerged as a very appealing alternative to traditional outdoor driving range instruction in many other parts of the world. In comparison, indoor golf lessons are a distinctly different learning experience, offering significant advantages to golfers of all levels. Indoor golf instruction provides privacy and discretion in a comfortable, climatecontrolled environment. Inclement weather conditions present no interruption to a regular lesson or practice regimen. The greatest advantage to indoor golf instruction may be the sophisticated ball flight data, video swing analysis and biomechanical software now available. The visual image of the ball on the screen is virtually no different from how the ball flight appears outside, however the technology provides precise feedback to the teaching professional who interprets the data and conveys the information back to the student in order to address their swing issues and how best to resolve them. The indoor learning experience in a private setting provides an atmosphere that encourages one-on-one communication and mutual exchange between student and instructor. Privacy is important to golfers of all levels for numerous reasons but most importantly it removes the intimidation factor and anxiety associated with learning something new and performing in the presence of others. This makes learning golf for beginners far more appealing and enjoyable.

instructor can efficiently and accurately assess how the posture and body movements are infuencing the ball flight. With this type of precisely measured information accessible to the advanced player after each shot, training becomes more purposeful and effective. Indoor golf instruction also encourages students to focus on the dynamics of the golf swing rather than the outcome. While taking a lesson, it is more important to concentrate on the process and not the immediate outcome or results. In an outdoor setting students often become focused on what the golf ball is doing; doubt can enter their mind and compromise their commitment to the process. Interestingly, the founder of Henry-Griffitts, who was arguably the pioneer of custom club-fitting, was reported saying that while he initially thought the idea of fitting a golf club and/or training for golf indoors was ridiculous, with the incredible technological advancements we see in golf training equipment today, he now believes there is absolutely no better environment for fitting and/or teaching than indoors. With Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golf course and driving range land slowly being pulled from beneath our feet; with the heat, humidity, regular thunder storms and heavy rains hindering our practice and play; with the time constraint we all face in our busy work, family and social lives and with the ability to utilise technology to measure performance and track progress, the future of the game in Singapore may just be moving indoors.

For the experienced golfer, elite amateur or professional, the privacy factor creates a very focused environment where a training session with their coach can be far more productive. With video swing analysis and launch monitor/simulator technology working cohesively, the advanced player and their experienced

e l y t s e f i L

Karaoke Competition 29 April 2017

By Dr Tan Kok Kheng, RCC Member

his year's edition of RCC Karaoke Competition was organised on 29 April 2017. This event was very popular, with around 35 members and spouses and 14 guests in attendance. The event started with a dinner buffet and one glass of beer for all. The emcee for the event was Tan Kok Kheng, a Lifestyle & Social Sub-Committee (LSSC) member. The high standard of singing amongst all participants proved difficult for the judges who had a hard time deciding on the winner. The judging panel consisted of Phee Thian Chye, Chairman of LSSC, Lee Yuke Lan, member of LSSC and Yong Kah Teck (Former Chairman of LSSC). After much thought and deliberation, the judges ultimately decided on Heng Thye Yong as the most deserving winner. Heng sang Blue Hawaii, a classic Elvis Presley song and his wife danced the hula during the entire song. This made the overall presentation more interesting and complete. Nina Koh, who sang a Chinese song was the runner-up, and Stella Lam was third. The winners walked away with vouchers and a bottle of wine each. After the contest, those attending the event were encouraged to take the stage and sing. The night went on eventfully with many crooning their hearts out, creating a great atmosphere for bonding sessions.

Raffles Connection â&#x20AC;¢ Jul - Aug 2017

LIFESTYLE

2nd runner-up, Ms Stella Lam

Winner, Mr Hen

g Thye Yong

Runner-up, Ms Nina Koh

An Adventure

Down-Under By Edmond Ang, RCC CISC Member

rom May 1 to 7, a group of 32 intrepid RCC members braved more than seven hours of air travel to experience four of the best golf courses that Sydney has to offer. Their intention was to play these reciprocal courses before their expiry next year. They also wanted to experience the challenges and beauty of the Sydney golf courses and what Australia can offer that other countries canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. The courses visited were The Lakes, St Michaels, Stonecutters Ridge and Macquarie Links. In the end, most of the members found St Michaels to be a pretty and thrilling golf course. Indeed. Australia proved to be a place of wonder. And it was not only the top class playing conditions along with its kind weather as in the bright sunshine and cool temperatures, but in the main â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for providing bonding of the highest order. How was this accomplished? Firstly, the organizers astutely mixed up the flights so that each day meant meeting new playing members. Bets were encouraged, but confined to small wagers or drinks

at the 19th hole. This meant that losing and winning was not a big deal, but developing the camaraderie was the intended effect. Secondly, staying at the Adina apartments in downtown Sydney allowed members to wander around during breakfast and dinner. The free arrangements meant that groups were encouraged to further their newly found friendships or renew bonds with known pals. From the active whatsapp messages, the arrangements were a huge success. There was also time given for eager punters to try out the Star Casino. Many remembered the rewarding success they enjoyed at Perth, although the Star proved a bit more challenging than Burswood. The biggest trial that really left a mark on RCC members was the infamous ravens at the golf courses. These huge black creatures were truly birds of prey for yellow coloured or Titlelist Pro V golf balls. Many of our members experienced chagrin when using these balls. The ravens would swoop down and capture those that landed squarely on the fairways. They strangely ignored

Raffles Connection â&#x20AC;˘ Jul - Aug 2017

LIFESTYLE

other white golf balls or balls that strayed into hazards. Our members tried to chase them down but to no avail. The ravens easily flew away with their wide black wings and our golf balls in their wicked beaks. So, for those who are keen to golf in Sydney â&#x20AC;Ś beware the ravens and keep those yellow and Pro V balls in your golf bags, if you want to avoid mysteriously losing them on the fairways. At the end of the trip, memories of Sydney were fondly held and, not just for the excellent golfing experience, but mostly for the friendships renewed and for those newly made. Many expressed eagerness for the next golfing trip to be organized by RCC. All participants warmly thanked Yuke Lan and her able treasurer, Yue Wing, for the hard work and dedication to make this trip truly memorable and enjoyable. All photographs in this article are by kind courtesy of Cindy Tan, Yoke Keng and Yue Wing.

Final Birthday

Celebration at RCC

ational Day is a time to come together and celebrate our Nation’s birthday which this year marks 52 years of independence from Malaysia. The highlight of island-wide celebrations on August 9th however is without a doubt the National Day Parade which makes a welcome return to the Marina Bay Floating platform this year. The 2017 theme is a rallying call to unite all Singaporeans. ‘One Nation’ is to remind Singaporeans that regardless of origin and background, we belong as one people and one nation. It encourages Singaporeans to harness our diversity and to leave no one behind as we strive towards an even brighter future.

By Justine Moss

One of the many delightful things that Raffles Country Club demonstrates is its unity amongst its members – coming together to bond, enjoy and commemorate occasions such as National Day, various tournaments held on religious holidays and the Raffles Charity weekend. This year’s National Day event will undoubtedly be no exception, and while members and their guests will celebrate together with a National Day competition, dinner and prizes, there will be a tinge of sadness around the club as it will be the last National Day event before the club closes its doors in July 2018. So, come on down to RCC on August 9th, let your hair down, bond with fellow members, toast the nation and enjoy the club’s celebrations! As this is the last one at RCC, we take a trip down memory lane and look back at some of the club’s previous memorable National Day Competitions.

Raffles Connection â&#x20AC;¢ Jul - Aug 2017

LIFESTYLE

Rejuvenate to help you feel and look younger!

Article contributed by Loh Kum Chuen, Pharmacist

In this article, I would like to share with you some health tips on how to rejuvenate your body physically and mentally so that you can live a longer, healthier and happier life looking younger and feeling younger!

ll of us want to look and feel younger than our age but we are physically and mentally affected by the stress of our fast paced lifestyle, environmental pollution and our modern diet. Most of us can actually live past 100 years old if we only knew how to take care of our body and to provide it with proper nutrition. One of the main factors in causing premature aging is the free radicals which are formed or introduced into our body and, if accumulated and not removed, may lead to diseases. When we age, our skin wrinkles, our brain shrinks (which may result in Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, a shorter attention span and memory), our muscles degenerate and shrink, our bones become more brittle, we lose balance (higher risk of falling), hearing and taste (resulting in higher intake of salt and sugar thereby increasing our blood pressure, cholesterol level and increasing the risk of diabetes, heart failure and stroke). Men and women will lose their libido, the male “jewel” will shrink and so does the female “flower“(uterus)!

We have to make lifestyle changes to slow down aging and to rejuvenate our body. Stop smoking! Smoking introduces many harmful chemicals into our body which may accelerate premature aging and cause cancer. Drink moderately as alcohol also accelerates aging. Make sure you eat healthily with lower fat intake, lower salt and sugar intake and increase in fibre consumption. In our rat race world, we may overlook having proper, balanced nutrition to feed what our body needs. To maintain muscle mass, healthy weight and a strong healthy heart, exercise regularly. Exercise helps relieve stress, lose weight effectively, sleep better and to produce hormones which make you feel good. Outdoor exercise with sunlight helps us produce vitamin D which strengthens our bones and protects us from some cancers.

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

LIFESTYLE

Make sure you have sufficient quality sleep. In a recent article in the Straits Times (May 26, 2017), it was reported that “Lack of sleep raises heart disease, stroke death risk: Study.” Rejuvenate, repair and restore your body to your younger self with more energy, clearer vision and mental capabilities. Your body needs proper nutrition to function optimally. To be able to obtain full benefits of good nutrition, we need to detox and cleanse our body systems of free radicals. Many herbs (e.g. Dandelion root) help to flush out accumulated toxins from our body. Antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, E and Selenium help to neutralise free radicals and prevent them from causing diseases. Varying amounts of Antioxidants can be obtained from different fruits but may not be enough to help remove free radicals. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant which helps the body produce energy for the heart and several other functions in all the cells, tissues and organs. CoQ10 helps mop up potentially harmful free radicals which cause oxidative damage and premature

aging. CoQ10 helps repair damaged cells and helps rejuvenate all types of cells. People with chronic fatigue problems, muscle shrinkage, certain types of cancer and heart disease have been found with low levels of CoQ10. Supplementation of CoQ10 have helped support brain health and clarity, support skin health besides supporting healthy vision and hearing. Omega 3 (DHA and EPA) is the best food for the brain and heart. More than 20,000 studies on Omega 3 have been done on improving brain function, rejuvenating the heart, keeping blood pressure and triglyceride levels balanced. Deficiencies in DHA and EPA could result in “brain fog”, degeneration and shrinkage of the brain and memory loss. Probiotics help with proper digestion, absorption and boost immunity to fight against infections. Many elderly people are suffering from poor gut health due to an imbalance of probiotics resulting in premature aging, allergies, constipation, diarrhoea, bad breath, eczema, Irritable Bowel Syndrome / “Leaky Gut” and Colon cancer. Above are just some of the recommended health supplements which may help cleanse and rejuvenate your body so that you may live and enjoy a healthy life.

FUKUYA SETS @ $21.80++

Satisfy your Japanese cuisine cravings at Fukuya with chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specially designed sets!

FUKUYA BENTO

SUSHI SET

FUKUYA

Japanese Restaurant

SASHIMI SET

TEMPURA SET

Level 2, Raffles Country Club. 450 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim S 639932. Tel: 6897 1990 Email: Fukuya@Passion-Restaurant.Com

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

LIFESTYLE

Speeding Up the Game

By Justine Moss

t’s every amateur golfer’s nightmare - being held up by the excruciatingly slow flight in front as they hack their way around the course or repeatedly search for lost balls in the rough. Even with an esky of cold refreshments in the golf buggy, there’s nothing more frustrating than having to repeatedly wait to take your tee or fairway shots. The good news is that changes are being brought in for amateur and professional players by golf’s two governing bodies – the Royal and Ancient and the United States Golf Association. These include three minutes allowed to search for a lost ball instead of the current five, dropped balls from an inch above the ground rather than shoulder height, no penalty for accidently moving your ball, allowing putting while the flagstick is in the hole and recommendation that a player takes no more than 40 seconds to hit a shot. These, plus a whole host of other sweeping changes, will be introduced at the beginning of 2019. So while we may need to wait a little longer for these new rules to be implemented, the introduction of a new tournament format has already taken place. In February, the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth teed off at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. Moving away from the traditional four-day stroke play format, this tournament combined 54 holes of traditional stroke play across the first three days with an exciting knockout match play format for the fourth and final round. It was trisanctioned by the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, Asian Tour and European Tour and attracted a host of players including Major champion Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa and Denmark’s Thorbjorn Olesen. In May, another tournament format came to the fore with the launch of GolfSixes by the European Tour in a bid to revamp the game – a version of Twenty20 cricket

if you like. Played at the Centurion Club in Hertfordshire, England, the tournament took place over just two days as opposed to the usual four. The 16 teams competing each represented a different country which included England, France, Wales, Portugal, India, Thailand and the United States. The first day of competition saw 16 teams split into four groups of four within which each team plays the others in a round robin format. A win was worth three points based on who won the most holes. On the Sunday, the top two from each group progressed to the quarter-finals and the knockout competition reached its completion with Denmark emerging victorious over Australia. The course is shortened to just six holes with both players teeing off on all the holes before a better ball is chosen by the team before they take alternate shots until the hole is completed. Each hole also had a different theme - the third had a long drive competition built into it while a 40-second shot clock hurried the players along on the following hole. European Tour Chief Executive Keith Pelley was delighted with the success of the one million pound event, and there is talk that there will be a number of other GolfSixes tournaments being included in the current European Tour schedule. With the changes to the professional game and the new rules being implemented, albeit slowly, into the sport, it will hopefully not only speed up the game but give golf clubs alternatives to revamp the game and attract more people to play – from the busy executive with limited time to the younger generation of players who will hopefully identify with the efforts to revolutionise the game.

e c n a n e t n i a M e s r ou

Golf C

Lake Course

Greens Improvement

he Lake course greens have shown encouarging signs of improvement after much work has been done. Random sampling of root profiling revealed better root mass and root depth of greens turf. Shoot density has also improved significantly. The greens turf general well-being has also become more resilent towards change in weather patterns, foot traffic and sustainability of growth. Various cultural practices have paid off with firmer, smoother green surfaces and truer putting lines. The turf maintenance team continues its efforts to maintain and deliver high standards in all areas of play at the two golf courses.

Greens soil profile during high disease pressure, before cultural practices was intensified. Little root mass with few long roots. Sand profile unable to hold up. Drill and fill works help to bridge layers in the greens profile.

Greens profile after coming out of disease pressure and intensified maintenance work. Sand profile holding up well, significantly more root mass and root depth of 4â&#x20AC;?-5â&#x20AC;?.

Raffles Connection • Jul - Aug 2017

GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE

Turf shoot density before (above) and after (right).

Care For Your Course

aintaining a beautiful golf course is everyone’s business! Please repair your ball marks and help care for your course by helping yourself to FREE divot repair tools when you golf at RCC. Now available at our Golf Reception.

s e i t i l i c a F

Improvements

around the Club

No More Popped-Up Tiles! If you’ve noticed the area in front of the shoe wash area at buggy bay being cordoned off, that’s because there were tiles popping up! The popped-up tiles created an uneven walking surface and were a hazard to members and staff walking past that area. You will be happy to know that the facilities team has fixed it within a matter of days! The floor has returned to its former glory and is safe for all again!

Eye Masks Now Available at the Changing Room! Want to rest your tired eyes after a game of golf, but the lighting in the changing rooms is making it almost impossible to relax on that comfortable massage chair? We’ve got just the thing to aid a restful nap – a blackout eye mask! All you need to do is request the single-use eye mask available at both the changing rooms and voilà, a relaxing rest is on the way!

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. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Tropicana Golf & Country Resort Selangor, Malaysia

PHILIPPINES

Alta Vista Golf & Country Club Cebu City, Philippines

Suzhou SunIsland International Club Jiangsu Province, China

Eagle Ridge Golf & Country Club General TriasCavite, Philippines

Mission Hills Golf Club Shenzhen, China Nanjing SunIsland Leisure &

VIETNAM

Resort Club Co. Ltd Jiangsu Province, China

Yangzhou Prime International Vacation Club Co. Ltd Shanghai, China

Chi Linh Star Golf & Country Club Hai Duong, Vietnam

Araluen Country Club Western Australia. Australia

The Empire Hotel & Country Club Negara Brunei Darussalam

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 Bintan Lagoon Resort Ltd Bintan, Kepri 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 RESTRICTED LOCAL RECIPROCAL CLUBS**

SINGAPORE Keppel Club

Orchid Country Club

Sembawang Country Club

Long Thanh Golf Club Dong Nai Province, Vietnam

Warren Country Club

Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club Hanoi, Vietnam

**Booking via club balloting

Seletar Country Club

For more information and assistance, please feel free to call the Golf Reception Counter at 6861 7655 or e-mail: golfrecep@rcc.org.sg

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 (Business) yeekiat.yen@rcc.org.sg 6864 0880

GOLFING

Golfing Operations Mohammed Sufandy Bin Kamis Assistant Manager (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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Palm & Lake Open Daily: First tee-off: 7:14am Last tee-off: 6:15pm (9 holes)

F&B / Banquet Dave Chiang Manager (F&B/Lifestyle) dave.chiang@rcc.org.sg 6864 0863

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

Lifestyle Mr. Joeness Lamban Executive (Operations) joeness.lamban@rcc.org.sg 6864 0823

SPORTS & RECREATION

Membership Ms. Sau Man Ling Executive (Membership) manling.sau@rcc.org.sg 6864 0812

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 Thu, Sun & PH: 4:00 10:00pm 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

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. Tey Yee Han Executive (HR & Admin) yeehan.tey@rcc.org.sg 6864 0860 website: www.rcc.org.sg email: feedback@rcc.org.sg

Chef's 6 Courses

LOBSTER SET

$118++

SPECIAL OFFER

• • • • • •

Smoked Duck Breast Salad with Balsamic Vinegar Shark Cartilage Soup with Prawn Wonton Baked Lobster with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Braised Sized 10-Head Abalone with King Oyster Mushroom & Seasonal Green XO Sauce Seafood Fried Rice Daily Chef's Choice Dessert

Stuffed Sea Cucumber with Premium Oyster Sauce

• • • • • •

意⼤利葡萄醋熏鸭胸沙律鲨⻥⾻浓汤浸鲜虾云吞⾦⽠奶皇焗⻰虾⼗头鲍⻥杏鲍菇扒时蔬极品酱海鲜炒饭是⽇厨师精选甜品

Chef's special

SEA CUCUMBER

SPECIAL OFFER

Fu Lin Men @ Raffles Country Club

450 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim. Level 2. Singapore 639932 Tel : 6861 0127

1 for 1

$9.50

UP $15.50