RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB NEWSLETTER | May - June 2018
Raffles Country Club Singapore www.rcc.org.sg
Vol
48
For Senior Golfers -
55 and above
65
$
includes buggy
Only on Wednesdays and Thursdays Terms & Conditions: Promotion is valid only for Wednesday & Thursday, excluding Public Holidays. • Valid at Palm in the MORNING & AFTERNOON, and Lake in the MORNING only. • Valid till 28 June 2018. • Rates are available to the public. • Rates include buggy and subject to GST. • Booking fee applies for bookings made more than 1 week in advance for Members’ Guests, and more than 3 days for Visitors. • RCC reserves the right to make changes with or without prior notice. • Call reception at 6861 7655 to book. • No rain check will be given for inclement weather.
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
RCC Staff – The Pillars of the Club
6
Acute and Chronic Insomnia
32
Snapshots
9
Golf Injuries & Prevention
34
Trip to Mission Hills, Shenzhen
36
A Blast from the Past
10
GOLF 12
2018 Ang Pow Game
16
Golf Fixtures 2018
20
Mercedes Trophy Qualifier 2018
21
KL Trip
22
Island Golf
The Right Clubs Will Truly Make a Difference 26 Transferring of Handicap 28
40
Secretary Mr John Goh
Chairman of Facilities & Estate Mr Hoe Boon Leong Chairman of Lifestyle & Social Mr Phee Thian Chye Chairman of Disciplinary Committee Mr Henry Ho
MANAGEMENT
22
29th Singapore Ladies Amateur Open Golf Championship 2018 31
7
Treasurer Chairman of Finance Mr Tom Yeo
Chairman of Communications & Information Ms Cheong Yoke Keng
SEASONAL ARTICLES
Monthly Medals
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 Chungbhivat christine.chungbhivat@rcc.org.sg 6861 2725
36
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
16
40
Cover photo by Chris Johnson. Raffles Connection is published by: Raffles Country Club, 450 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore 639932 l www.rcc.org.sg MCI (P) 035/04/2018 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.
Facilities Manager Kevin Kwan kevin.kwan@rcc.org.sg 6864 0883
EDITORIAL BOARD Chairman Cheong Yoke Keng Editor Justine Moss Members Ven Sreenivasan Albert Khor Nina Koh Joanne Ng Relle Lee
Ladies’
Golf
on Wednesdays and Thursdays
65
$
includes buggy
includes buggy
Terms & Conditions: • Promotion is valid only for Wednesday & Thursday, excluding Public Holidays. • Valid at Palm in the MORNING & AFTERNOON, and Lake in the MORNING only. • Valid till 28 June 2018. • Rates are available to the public. • Rates include buggy and subject to GST. • Booking fee applies for bookings made more than 1 week in advance for Members’ Guests, and more than 3 days for Visitors. • RCC reserves the right to make changes with or without prior notice. • Call reception at 6861 7655 to book. • No rain check will be given for inclement weather.
s ' t n e d i s Pre ge
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
Messa
Dear Fellow members, When you read this, we will have about three months left. In my last message I encouraged members to play more often on both our courses and bring their guests to enjoy a round or two on our courses. Surprisingly, data that we have collected shows that there is a decline in the number of rounds members are playing. This includes weekend golf. If you plan to play in the coming months, I suggest that you do not wait till July as we anticipate that there could be a rush of members wanting to play among themselves and with guests. We will ensure that for July, we will not hold any private events and promotions. Both courses will be reserved for members and their guests. The Club will continue organising several events for members to participate and enjoy. Please take the time to join these events as I am sure the staff and sub-committees will appreciate members' support. We had the honour of hosting the 29th Singapore Ladies Amateur Open. The event was staged over four days (20-23 March 2018) on our Lake course. Most of the top ladies Amateur in the region participated in this SLGA sanctioned event. I am pleased to mention that we received tremendous accolades on the great condition, playability and super condition of Lake Greens. We had a green speed of 11 feet 3 inches. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Course Superintendent, Christine Chungbhivat, and her team for doing such a great job in keeping both our courses in the best playable conditions. On 22 March 2018, we heard the tragic and sad news that Nasser, one of our employees had a heart attack (Acute Myocardial infarction) and passed away. Nasser is one of our course Marshals and worked in RCC for six years. Members will know him well as he frequently interacted with members on the golf course. We are in communication with his family and management will ensure that whatever compensation that is due to him due to the Club closure is properly taken care of. Our heartfelt condolences to his family. It has been 16 months since we were served with the notice of acquisition by the SLA. It’s been a long and hard road for the General Committee to go through the process of working with the appointed experts in ensuring that we go through each and every detail. Nothing is taken for granted and that we at times challenge the experts if we think there are reasons to do so. We have now come towards the end of this process and an EGM was held on 9 April 2018. The purpose of this EGM was to seek members' approval on three resolutions that the General Committee has put up for members to consider and approve. I won’t go into the details of the resolutions as members would have received the notice by mail. But I would like to stress that these resolutions are important as it will pave the way for the Club to pay out the compensation and reserves to members. I am glad to mention that we had 280 members that showed up for the EGM held on 9 April 2018. There were many points, suggestions, opinions and questions raised by members during the EGM. We had Baker Tilly presenting the methodology of the compensation payout to members as well as our legal representative Rajah & Tann to answer any legal questions raised by members. In general I would say that the EGM went very well. I am pleased to see that we had an overwhelming support from members on the three resolutions and that members passed all three resolutions. We will now submit them to the Register of Society for endorsement. The GC will also start the dialogue with the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) to negotiate for a revised and higher compensation to the Club. We will keep members updated on our progress. Best regards, Paul Singh Club President
3
Signature Fu Lin Men Peking Duck
A Tribute to
Lin Men Mum &FuDad
Celebrate Mother’s and Father’s Day at Fu Lin Men and treat yourselves to Bird’s Nest Dessert* on us or a free bottle of Moscato*. Packages start at $198++ for 4 people.
Signature Braised Abalone Live Seafood
LEVEL 2 RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB. 450 JALAN AHMAD IBRAHIM S 639932.
T: 6861 0127 E: flm_rcc_sales@passion-restaurant.com
* Terms and conditions applied.
Photos are for reference only.
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
m
ro f e g a s s e M
Captain
Our club is picturesque whatever the season and we are blessed with our two beautiful scenic courses. Visitors always remark on how pretty the courses are and how much they enjoy playing them. Our beautiful yet challenging courses and very friendly staff are a real testament. All this did not happen overnight. From the begining of our term, a set of cultural practices and maintenance programmes were put in place by the greens sub-committee together with the maintenance team to intensify and focus on improving turf quality, particularly on the greens till the last days of Raffles. The turf maintenance team carries out regular dethatching, aerification and topdressing programmes. This has resulted in a more vigorous and resilient turf that is less susceptible to fungal disease and more tolerance to wear. Turf growth is more sustainable despite changes in weather patterns and high-golfer traffic. The greens also have good turf coverage and density. Gradually the result has been an overall improvement in terms of green speed, trueness of putt and consistency. Members who play at Palm course may occasionally encounter wild boars. The team tried many options to deter the wild boars from entering the golf course, such as installation of metal barricades, construction of zinc sheet hoarding, installation of opaque barrier, etc. Finally we decided to adopt the most cost-effective and time-efficient method, which was to pile up hard-core material along the perimeter fence to prevent the wild boars from digging in from the military training grounds. In addition, the concertina barbed wires were extended to areas where wild boars are frequently spotted. These methods have resulted in significant reduction of wild boar digging activities and damages done to the golf course. Last November, it was the first time ever that the club participated in the Mission Hills World Reciprocal Autumn Championship 2017 and the Dunes Challenge in Hainan Island. The 52 RCC members who travelled all the way up north made RCC proud by winning the Championships in both events. They made history for Raffles and will always be etched in our minds. Counting down to finale of the club means we have to make the most out of it. Upcoming gatherings you should look out for are the Hole-In-One Achiever Golf Game on 2 June where members of hole-in ones at Raffles will gather to share their HIO stories and recognition. There is also the Chairman’s Invitational on 21 July, a recognition gathering for all past and present committees, and the Final Golf Game on 31 July for members only. Please be informed that all local reciprocal clubs arrangements will end 30th June 2018 and overseas reciprocal clubs agreements will end 31st July 2018. In the meantime, please enjoy your privileges. Private tournaments and public promotions will end on 30th June 2018 and for the month of July the courses will be dedicated to you, my fellow members, and your invited guests. On behalf of the Golfing and Greens Sub-Committee, we hope that 2018 will be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for everybody involved in the game of golf at Raffles Country Club and we look forward to seeing friends, family and lots of guests on the fairways or in the clubhouse during the last three months. Sebastian Song Club Captain
5
RCC Staff – The Pillars of the Club As the countdown begins, we speak to some staff on bidding the Club farewell and their thoughts…
Don’t be a Stranger! It is sad that the Club is closing. Having been with the Club for so many years, I have grown attached to this place that I call my ‘second home’. The million-dollar view of the Tengeh Reservoir, the beautiful flora and fauna... these are some of the things that I will miss the most. To all members, please don’t be a stranger if we have the chance to see each other on the streets! I would love to have the opportunity to see you again and stop for a quick chat. Take care! ager inance Man F t n ta is ss A Chin Magdaline ears rvice: 18 y e S f Years o
Kind and Loving Environment
Being one of the longest serving staff members at the Golfers’ Terrace, I have built strong relationships with many members. Many of them have already become friends and for some, even like family to me - I call some of them ‘grandpa’ and ‘brother’! These very thoughtful and friendly ‘family F&B Captain members’ also take good care of my Yang Xiaojuan female colleagues at the Golfers’ Terrace. Years of Service: 7 ye Worried that we are too busy and have ars no time for meals, our bellies are often filled with delicious food given by them. How can we not enjoy working in such a kind and loving environment? When the announcement (of the Club’s closure) came, many members were concerned and asked about my plans for the future. I was really touched that instead of sharing their woes, they chose to show concern for us - the employees of RCC. Working here has indeed been a fulfilling and enjoyable journey. Being surrounded by friendly colleagues and members is truly a blessing. As we walk towards the end of this chapter, I would like to wish all members good health, happiness and prosperity. Please get in touch with me if any of you should drop by at Xi’an, China – I would love to play host and bring you around my hometown! Keep in touch!
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Housekeeping St eward Jannah Bte Man an Years of Service: 29 year
s
Second Job and Second Home
My job at RCC is my second job. At the blink of an eye, I can’t believe I have been in this same job for almost 30 years! It seems like it was only yesterday that I just started working here. I was young, shy and easily intimidated by the members at the Club. Still wet behind the ears on this job then, they all looked so important and confident and I felt so small and insignificant among them. I remember avoiding them and could barely look them in the eye until a few months into my job! Little did I know that the members are really very friendly and always ready to stop for a casual chat. It is ironic now that the Club is closing, as one of the things I will miss most about the Club is the members. Sad as I may be about the closure, I would like to thank the members and my colleagues for making my job enjoyable and for making this place feel like a second home. Come July, it will be my 30th year here. Come July, I will have to look for another job, but I’ll never be able to find another one that I will feel as snug as a bug in a rug.
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
CLUB NEWS
RCC Is Part Of My Life’s Milestones Having been with the Club for 29 years, I have often joked that I sold my youth to the Club. I am also proud to share that I am one of the pioneers who have been employed by RCC instead of JTC! Throughout the years, I’ve experienced many ups and downs – both in my personal life and career – and I wouldn’t trade these memories and experiences for anything. I’ve seen many committees come and go, witnessed the glory of the Club and of course, also the less glamorous side of it. Through it all, I’ve enjoyed every second working here.
keeper Assistant House Johnny Chan 29 years Years of Service:
When the announcement of the Club’s closure came, 29 years of memories and emotions came flooding back to me. This is the place where I saw myself starting out as a young man and then becoming a father! I would like to thank RCC for taking such good care of me all these years and being part of all my life’s milestones. A huge ‘thank you’ also goes out to members who remember me – you have no idea how happy it makes me when someone comes up to me and tells me they remember me. To all my colleagues, please keep in touch. I will miss all of you!
From The Beginning To The End I started in 1983 when JTC was building Tuas Country Club - this was the name RCC was formerly known as. I then continued to witness the completion of RCC in 1986 to becoming a members’ Club in 2001. I remained as the course supervisor from day one. The event that was especially memorable in these 32 years was my first international APGA golf tournament where I helped to prepare the golf course. It was held in the 80s and I worked alongside a professional project team from the Philippines. They were running a golf circuit in Asia and RCC hosted the Singapore leg. I learnt many valuable golf course set-ups from this tournament. There are many things that I will miss about the Club - the golf courses, the beautiful landscape, the outdoor environment and my colleagues. We see each other every day and they are like my second family. I have seen this place from its barren beginnings to its heyday of hosting prestigious golf tournaments, and to its fruitful present day where the grounds are covered with green turf and members enjoying their rounds. I will miss all this when RCC closes its doors on 31 July 2018.
pervisor Palm Course Su e Fawardi Bin Nae 32 years e: ic rv Years of Se
I Will Miss You! As one of the longest-serving staff members at the Club, it is no wonder that the news of the Club’s closure hit me hard. Apart from grieving the loss of a job and the familiar routine of coming to the Club and performing my daily work, I am also nervous about my future. With plans to retire here going down the drain, I will definitely have to look for another job after taking a short and well-deserved break. To all the staff and members, I will miss you! Thank you for the beautiful memories you have given me after all these years. Take care, everyone! Golf Steward Ler Chin Hong Years of Service: 30 year
s
7
Reeling In Shock.. On the day the announcement came out, all of us at the Golf Reception were reeling in shock. The Club I have been working in for the past 25 years was closing! An air of melancholy hung over the reception for the next few days as we try to grapple with the news. Who can blame us for feeling this way? Most of us have been fronting the counter for more than 10 years and many members have become good friends. Members are generally very kind and nice to us and we always receive food from these generous members – some even came to the Club specially to pass us food! There was the late Mr Lim Eng Tuan, who would not only buy food for us, but also take us out for dinner at fancy hotels with his wife. We visited him at the hospital during his last few months and he unfortunately lost his battle with liver cancer. Where can we find members as sweet as him? I really enjoy working here, especially when VIPs such as ESM Goh Chok Tong visit the Club. I also always look forward to the annual staff day when all colleagues let down their hair and engage in a meaningful bonding session.
Service Officer Senior Customer uchi Sa’diah Binte M 25 years Years of Service:
While work may not always be a bed of roses, it is definitely more enjoyable with my awesome colleagues and members. The counter staff have planned to go on a holiday together after the Club closes! We will definitely keep in contact with one another through Whatsapp and make new memories in the next phase of our lives. As the date of the closure draws nearer, we get more and more sentimental each day. We, at the golf reception will miss the members, their jokes and our little chit-chats, as well as the dynamic work environment.
Life Lessons
For the past seven years, I have met incredible RCC members who are always open to ‘small talk’ with me and who are more than willing to impart sound advice and share their life experiences with me. Listening to their success stories inspires and motivates me to work hard every day, so that hopefully I can be as successful as them one day. Their advice comes in handy especially on days when I doubt myself. Many of our members were not born with a silver spoon in their mouths. They have come this far because of their ‘can-do attitude’ and by working extremely hard when they were young. One of my most valued members, Mr Wong, came to Singapore alone by train when he was only 15 and with very little money. He worked day and night till his company finally made its first million. Mr Wong always tells me: “No one has ever succeeded without failing once”.
Sales & Marketing Executive Jana Redzuan Years of Service: 7 ye ars
Another member, Mr Tan, who only had a primary school education, started working when he was only 13 years old, supporting his family of 10. He then went on to build a construction company with nothing but grit and determination when he was only 21. He also gave me tips on being a good wife and that I should support my husband through thick and thin. Nowadays, Mr Tan’s happiest moments are spent with his wife and children. These are life lessons I know I can never learn in school - to believe in my own strength and treat failures as part of the learning journey. These members have given me the wisdom to lead life to the fullest and for this, I am and will forever be grateful. Thank you, RCC.
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
Snapsh ts
CLUB NEWS
Termination of Reciprocal and Affiliated Club Agreements In view of the Club’s closure after 31 July 2018, termination of reciprocal club agreements will take effect as follows: • Local Clubs on 30 June 2018 • *Overseas Clubs on 31 July 2018 *this includes reciprocal and affiliated clubs. As for overseas reciprocal agreement with Mission Hills, Shenzhen, it will be extended until 31 December 2018 instead of 31 July 2018. Members will need to make their bookings and payment before July 2018 in order to play after 31 July 2018. Bookings and introduction letters will be issued by RCC counter staff before 31 July 2018 but members will have to contact Mission Hills, Shenzhen, directly after 31 July 2018 for any further queries.
OUR UNSUNG HEROES They help you with your bags and they are time-keepers ensuring smooth traffic at the courses. Meet our unsung heroes of RCC! From left: Muhammad Idris Bin Kasmer Liwanto, Shaharuddin Bin Md Soed, Ler Chin Hong, Kalakumar Kantheveloo, Salimi Bin Akop, Mohammad Zawawi Bin Hj Abdul Rahman, M Karnan, Mohammad Yusri Bin Tahir, Amir Bin Parus, Abdul Wahab Bin Haron, Wan Shafiq Bin Wan Iskandar, Ladi Bin Rasikon, Mohd Razid Bin Yamal and Azmi Bin Hassan.
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Palm greens 1986 Construction of
Palm course
A Blast from the Past
C
hris Johnson was 32 years old when he came to Singapore from the United States to oversee the construction of Lake and Palm courses at RCC as the Construction Supervisor for the course designer, Robert Trent Jones Jr. That was in May 1985. Chris left Singapore in January 1987 after the last hole was planted in Palm, which sealed the completion of his work and for the other contractors to take over. At 65, Chris was back at RCC. Standing at the Golfers’ Terrace overlooking Palm and Lake on the afternoon of 25th February 2018, Chris could see with his very own eyes the transformation of the two courses. This poignant moment brought memories flooding back at the speed of lightning, and the emotions he felt were so powerful that he was moved to tears. Not one who gets emotional over work, the not-easily-ruffled Chris was not sure if the sudden surge of emotions was due to the fact that the Club was closing or it was his longing to visit RCC over the past 31 years, or it was a combination of both. Chris recalled when he was standing at the patio soaking in the afternoon humidity, the golf courses “just look so beautiful with all the years of maturing and tree growth.” And as he watched the Sunday crowd enjoying the patio
10
and the golf course ambience, Chris felt an overwhelming sense of pride that was beyond belief. “I really put my heart and soul into my work at RCC,” he admitted. The following two days, Chris returned to the Club and visited every hole in Palm and Lake in a buggy just to take photos. The amazing thing was, he was able to locate all the original trees on the course as per Robert Trent Jones Jr’s landscape plans! Chris recalled one of his most vivid memories of the early days – which was dealing with equipment operators who could not speak English. Foremen and contractors who were Singaporeans spoke English; but it was the ground workers who were from Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand who did not, and this posed a challenge when it came to giving instructions. Most of the communication issues were with the earth-moving dozer operators. “That is when you try to get the dirt shaping as close as possible to the finished product to begin the irrigation, bunker, tee and greens construction,” he recounted. Chris used props like the dirt on the ground to simulate mounds, bunkers and greens, or simply drew on paper. It took close supervision to get the results the designer
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
CLUB NEWS
wanted, and his job was to do just that. The team of workers ranged from 150 to 200 men and it was a massive project. His other vivid memory that he would never forget was watching the first few fairways popping with green grass. Seeing that in the evening light with the sprinklers running was simply breathtaking. It was the beginning of the finished work and the sense of accomplishment was the most memorable. The sight of green grass where there was sand and dirt for over a year, was just a remarkable feeling and to Chris, that was his best memory of RCC. Thirty-one years is a long time. This visit back to RCC, which used to be called Tuas Country Club, was long overdue. Chris was compelled to Chris Johnson (centre) with Yusof Hamid (left) and Christine Chungbhivat (right). return when he read about the Club’s closure in its Facebook account. He knew then that he had to come back to RCC for one last look. Palm and Lake courses Superintendent of RCC, Christine Chungbhivat, and the used to be called North and South courses respectively Sales & Marketing/Communications Manager, Joanne Ng. during the course of his work. In hindsight, looking back on the day of his arrival at RCC Chris was happy to see a couple of familiar faces during his (on 25th February 2018), Chris can now understand how he visit. One of them was Mohd Yusof Abdul Hamid - Senior got so emotional. It was, after all, 31 years; and Lake and Irrigation Technician for Lake. Yusof spoke English to Chris Palm are the two courses he holds dearest to his heart. On back in those days when they were working together, and top of that, RCC was by far the hardest golf project he had he was the foreman in the irrigation crew. The other familiar ever undertaken. This timely visit to RCC was indeed a face was Zainal Abidin Osman, Senior Irrigation Technician blast from the past. for Palm. Chris was happy that Zainal, although missing many teeth now, could recognise him. The reunion of the Chris went on to Bangkok after leaving RCC to work on three men was unforgettable. To imagine 31 years later to Green Valley Bangkok. After many more years in the golf have three men cross paths once again in a faraway land business, which included 10 years managing three golf was unthinkable. courses in Asia, where he was involved in design work on the back nine of Alta Vista Country Club, Chris now lives Chris was happy to have made the visit to RCC, despite it in La Habra Heights, California. He is mostly retired from being a spur-of-the-moment decision. It was in November the golf business. He still manages his family’s partnership 2017 when he contacted RCC through Facebook to in Birch Hills Golf Course in Brea California. His father was confirm its impending closure. Once it was confirmed, the founder of Birch Hills Golf Course. It sits on leased land he immediately bought the air tickets and found himself (30 years) and has been in operations since 1974. in Singapore three months later. Chris was also very happy and grateful to be warmly received by the Course Photos by courtesy of Chris Johnson
Lake Hole 6 looking towards Hole 4
Lake Hole 12
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Golf
Monthly March 2018
Medals
RESULTS
Saturday, 10 March 2018 Format : Strokeplay, Palm Course
‘A’ DIV. MEN’S MAR 2018
‘A’ DIV. LADIES’ MAR 2018 Best Nett: Judy Quek 75 Nett Best Gross: Michelle Ang 98 Gross
Ben Chua
Yeap Chee Leong
Phoon Soo Hin
Best Nett: Ben Chua, 75 Nett Best Gross: Yeap Chee Leong, 91 Gross Ocb Runner-Up Nett: Phoon Soo Hin, 79 Nett
Judy Quek
Michelle Ang
‘B’ DIV. LADIES’ MAR 2018 Best Nett: Linda Yeo 63 Nett Best Gross: Jennifer Teo 94 Gross
‘B’ DIV. MEN’S MAR 2018 Linda Yeo
Tan Wei Ming Victor Lem
Thong Tuck Seng
Best Nett: Tan Wei Ming, 72 Nett Ocb Best Gross: Victor Lem, 88 Gross Ocb Runner-Up Nett: Thong Tuck Seng, 72 Nett
‘C’ DIV. MEN’S MAR 2018 Best Nett: Michael Low 65 Nett Best Gross: Nelson Yeo Kian Peng 92 Gross Michael Low
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Nelson Yeo Kian Peng
Jennifer Teo
NEAREST THE PIN Hole No. 3: Joo Eun Ji
1m
Hole No. 7: Tan Wei Ming
4m
Hole No. 12: Teo Kim Chwee
Hole In One
Hole No. 17: Nelson Yeo
1.6 m
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
April 2018 RESULTS
Saturday, 8 April 2018 Format : Stableford, Lake Course
‘A’ DIV. MEN’S APR 2018
‘A’ DIV. LADIES’ APR 2018 Winner: Yang Mee Lan 36 Pts Ocb Runner-Up: Maria Teo 36 Pts
Samir Bedi
Lau Wing Cheok
Albert Ng
Winner: Samir Bedi, 39 Pts Ocb 1st Runner-up: Lau Wing Cheok, 39 Pts 2nd Runner-up: Albert Ng , 36 Pts
Yang Mee Lan Maria Teo
‘B’ DIV. LADIES’ APR 2018 Winner: Teo Chai Ching 41 Pts Ocb Runner-Up: Sonia Liu 41 Pts
‘B’ DIV. MEN’S APR 2018 Teo Chai Ching
Sonia Liu
NEAREST THE PIN Mark Oh
Hao Xiao Ming
Victor Lem
Winner: Mark Oh, 43 Pts 1st Runner-up: Hao Xiao Ming, 40 Pts Ocb 2nd Runner-up: Victor Lem, 40 Pts
Hole No. 2: Teo Chai Ching
1.5 m
Hole No. 8: Maria Teo
4.1 m
Hole No. 14: Maria Teo
3.7 m
Hole No. 17: Teo Chai Ching
2.2 m
‘C’ DIV. MEN’S APR 2018 Winner: Chan Kok Yong 40 Pts Runner-Up: Ng Song Cheng 39 Pts Ocb
Chan Kok Yong
Ng Song Cheng
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Hole-In-One
Achievers
Richard Tay Tian Hoe (10354) Palm Hole 17 11 February 2018
Teo Kim Chwee (11728) Palm Hole 12 10 March 2018
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
Your G lf SUNDAY
MONDAY
Calendar
GOLF
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1
2
3
4
5
Public Holiday Labour Day
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
Monthly Medals - Men's A, B & C; Ladies' A & B Division / Palm PM Shotgun
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
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1
2
Private Competition / Lake AM Regular Tee Off - 16 flights
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Palm Course Closed Whole Day
SGA ICL 2018 Sembawang vs TMCC / Palm PM Regular Tee Off
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
Public Holiday Vesak Day
Private Competition / Lake PM Regular Tee Off - 15 flights
Private Competition / Lake PM Regular Tee Off - 8 flights
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
Committees' Day / Lake PM Shotgun
Private Competition / Lake AM Regular Tee Off - 12 flights
Hole-In-One Achiever Golf Game / Palm PM Shotgun
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
30
SGA ICL 2018 Knock Out Phase / Palm PM Regular Tee Off
Captain's Invitational / Lake PM Regular Tee Off - 15 flights
Lake Course Closed Whole Day
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
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
Public Holiday Hari Raya Puasa
Private Competition / Lake PM Shotgun
*Calendar is accurate as of 27 Mar 2018, and is subject to changes. Kindly refer to RCC website for latest event calendar. Private Competition Course Closed Club Competition/Event Lifestyle Public Holiday
Monthly Medals - Men's A, B & C; Ladies' A & B Division / Lake PM Shotgun
RCC Prize Presentation Golf Game and Dinner / Lake PM Shotgun
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2018 Ang Pow Game 24 February 2018
By Justine Moss, Editor
I
t was a fittingly full house for the recent Ang Pow game at Raffles Country Club, and while all participants were understandably sad that this would be the final event, they were determined for it to go out with a bang. A total of 215 golfers teed off in perfect weather on both Lake and Palm courses for the double shotgun tournament and judging by the laughter, high fives and whoops of joy heard from various parts of the courses, everyone was having a wonderful time. What made it more special for me was playing with members of the CISC – Albert Khor, Ven Sreenivasan and Nina Koh. We had a lot of fun (and a few beers) and I learnt a few tips from them on how to improve my game! After the game a real highlight of the programme was watching the Lion Dance. A departure from the usual lunar year lion dances, this magical and creative troupe was a real joy to watch! They leapt and jumped across high poles in this dance which symbolizes ‘Reaching Greater Heights with Each Step’ – or in Chinese ‘Bu Bu Gao Sheng’. The lion dance, which is associated with power and good fortune, was performed at the entrance to the club. After this entertaining performance, it was time to feast on delicious food which included yu sheng/lo hei. The dishes were washed down with soft drinks, beer and whisky which added to the merriment that was very much alive in the Stamford Suite. During lunch, a number of trophies and novelty prizes were awarded to those who performed brilliantly on the day, plus a selection of generous lucky draw prizes. It was a truly delightful last Ang Pow game and an annual event which will be sorely missed.
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
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Golf Fixtures
2018
1st Tue 5th Sat
Labour Day Palm
Monthly Medals Men’s A, B & C; Ladies’ A & B Divisions Stroke play – PM Timesheet
19th Sat
Lake
Committees’ Day PM Shotgun start
20th Sun
Palm NSRCC
SGA ICL Sem vs TMCC SGA ICL (away) RCC vs OCC
29th Tue
Vesak Day
2nd Sat
Palm
Hole-in-one Achiever Golf Game PM Shotgun start
3rd Sun
Palm
SGA ICL Knock out phase
9th Sat
Lake
Monthly Medals Men’s A, B & C; Ladies’ A & B Divisions Stableford play – PM Timesheet
10th Sun
Lake
Captain's Invitational PM Timesheet
15th Fri
Hari Raya Puasa
30th Sat
Lake
RCC Prize Presentation Golf Game and Dinner PM Shotgun start
21st Sat
Lake
Chairman’s Invitational PM Shotgun start
31st Tue
Palm & Lake
Final Golf Game PM Shotgun start
All information and dates are correct at time of printing.
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
Mercedes Trophy Qualifier 2018 4 March 2018
T
he much anticipated Mercedes Trophy Qualifier 2018 finally took place on a gloomy Sunday afternoon and garnered active participation from many of RCC’s best players. This is one of the biggest and most talked about games that gives winners an opportunity to compete in Stuttgart – the capital of southwest Germany’s Baden-Württemberg state. Stuttgart is also known as a manufacturing hub where Mercedes-Benz has its headquarters and its very own museum. Hence, it was not a surprise that the crowd that turned up was raring to go and ready to give their very best to win the game and represent Singapore in this prestigious event. That afternoon, the participants’ skills were tested on the sleek grounds of Lake Course, and an unexpected downpour added another level of difficulty to the game. This development further jeopardised many players’ chances of landing themselves a coveted spot in their respective divisions. After braving through four hours of gruelling conditions, four deserving winners emerged to progress to the next level - representing RCC at the National Final at Warren Golf & Country Club on 1 June 2018. Here they will compete with the other representatives from other clubs to earn a place to compete on the grand stage in Stuttgart. All the best to our players, Herzlichen Glückwunsch und viel Glück!
Results
Hao Xiao Ming
Ben Chua
Yeo Bee Kheng
Raymond Lim
4th March 2018 Individual Stableford Lake Course
Men's A Division (Hi : 0 – 9.4) Winner
: Ben Chua (15799)
Runner-Up : David Soh (13215)
37 Pts 36 Pts
Men's B Division (Hi : 9.5 – 13.4) Winner
: Yeo Bee Kheng (15108)
Runner-Up : Raymond Lim (14825)
39 Pts 38 Pts
Men's C Division (Hi : 13.5 – 18.0) Winner
: Jeffrey Yeo (14525)
Runner-Up : Hao Xiaoming (15306)
38 Pts 37 Pts Ocb
Ladies' Division (HI : 0 – 29.9)
Winner : Chen-Horng Hwa Shu (1505002)
43 Pts
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KL Trip
15 - 18 March 2018 By Peter Tan
S
aving the BEST for LAST.
Indeed this LAST inter-club golf outing was the BEST RCC golfing trip that enthused most of the 53 participants of the KL trip. Day 1 Early morning saw the group headed in two coaches for a social round in Kota Permai. At dinner, we enjoyed a sumptuous KL Cantonese cuisine and for some, it was a good start to making new friends. We also had a birthday celebration for golfers born in the month of March - Boo Geok Ching, Heng Thye Yong “RCC Elvis”, Vincent Cho Kim Seng, Patrick Lye Kwang Pheng, Albert Tan Kian Huat, Rusly Sjaichudin and Cheong Yoke Keng.
The VIPs with their hosts.
Day 2 This was the first round of the inter-club tournament with Kelab Golf Negara Subang (KGNS). Unfortunately, players only managed to play five of six holes before rain, lightning and thunder halted us from continuing at this beautiful course. That was the sad part; but come evening and the happy part began. Our host was most hospitable and we ended with a friendly karaoke contest. Results? It was a draw! There was so much singing, dancing and drinking… how nice if we could have so much fun back in our home club whenever there was a club event!
So happy to be here!
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Exchange of friendship gifts between Vice President of KGNS, Raymond Teoh, and Vice President of RCC, K C Loh.
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
Day 3 We had our practice round in TPC KL which is rated the best course in Kuala Lumpur. Again, due to bad weather, most of us played only nine holes. Some die-hard golfers, however, waited for the course to reopen and completed the 18 holes just before dark. Again, we were accorded the generous Malaysian Hospitality with a wide spread buffet dinner.
The line-dance showdown!
Who's the "buaya"?
"RCC Elvis" the crooner.
Hooray!
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The guys having a ball!
Golf buddies in blue.
The ladies flanked by their "bodyguards".
Striking a pose before the putt.
Day 4 This was the BIG DAY. “I have been on many golfing trips organised by RCC, and this trip is the best!” - Heng Thye Yong (RCC Elvis) “This is the first time I participated in a RCC outing after being a member for more than 20 years. And I am glad to say I enjoyed myself very much!” - Edwin Chua Heng Soon “I am impressed with the warmth and great hospitality of the KL clubs that were hosting us. It was a truly great experience from start to finish by the organiser of this trip.” - Rusly Sjaichudin
It was the final inter-club tournament between RCC and TPC KL. A well fought battle indeed as both teams were determined to keep the challenge trophy for good. RCC emerged triumphant. This trip was truly enjoyable because everyone was most cooperative and understanding. On top of that, it went without a hitch under the leadership and guidance of Lady Captain Elvina Wong, and our own dedicated staff Fandy, Din and Jana. Finally, special thanks goes to our Team Captain, VicePresident, Loh Kum Chuen, for his eloquent ‘thank you’ speeches to our hosts. To everyone, a very big THANK YOU. We are going to miss such outings in the future.
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
The ladies on cloud nine.
Dato Mustafa Mohd Ali, TPC KL presenting the trophy to VP, K C Loh.
March babies on trip.
Results
Sunday, 18th March 2018 TPC KL, East Course Overall Best Pair Winner : James Tan Tan Teck Seng
74 Pts
2nd : Low Yi Cheng Andrew Cher
70 Pts Ocb
3rd : Alan Koh Patrick Lye
70 Pts
Team RCC – Best Pair Winner : Edwin Pereira Denis White
64 Pts
: Albert Tan Kay Kong Swan
61 Pts
3rd : Chan Kok Yong Jacob Tay
59 Pts
2nd
Novelty Longest Drive @ Hole 12 Norlia Embong 148m Nearest The Pin @ Hole 5 Patrick Low 7 Ft 4 Inch Inter-Club Match (4 Ball Matchplay) Team RCC
10.5
Team TPC KL
9.5
Champion – Team RCC
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The Right Clubs
Will Truly Make a Difference
N
othing builds confidence in your golf game like knowing you’re using the ideal golf clubs to maximize every shot you hit.
Whilst there is no doubt a golfers’ swing technique has the greatest influence on the outcome of any golf shot, the equipment being used by the player and the specifications of the club are often the reason why the average golfer struggles to swing the club on the desired path with a sufficient amount of clubhead speed, resulting in a lack of distance and direction control. A technically sound golfer on the other hand may strike the ball very well but have a less than desirable ball flight should the length, lie angle, weight and flex of the club not match up with their swing. Studies have shown that 90% of golfers are playing with equipment that is completely not suitable for their game. Custom golf club fitting is often thought to be something only good players can benefit from. In fact, 92% of amateur golfers at every level of the game in the United States that are custom fit using launch monitor technology see immediate improvement, hitting the golf ball further, more accurately and with a greater level of consistency. A custom golf club fitting experience is only as good as the fitter you work with. A certified club-fitter who is also a professional golf instructor will always be the best person to seek out as they can use their extensive fitting knowledge as well as coaching experience in conjunction with the latest technology to determine the ideal clubs for you to perform your very best.
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
THE FITTING PROCESS 1. Launch Monitor Data Sets The Foundation With a launch monitor capturing the ball data, the certified club-fitter can measure your swing, clubhead speed and ball flight characteristics such as launch angle, spin rate, carry distance and dispersion with your current clubs. Your shot patterns will be determined to set the foundation for a precise custom club fitting session. 2. Optimal Clubhead and Shaft Combination Your personal launch monitor data should be cross-referenced with an extensive database of clubhead and shaft combinations to identify the models that will help to optimize the performance of your golf swing. The database would include the latest equipment from a range of reputable manufacturers in the game so as not to be brand biased. 3. Try the Clubs During Your Fitting Session After determining the top three models that will work best for you, the fitter will assemble the clubs using the clubhead and shaft fitting components so you can hit each one to reach a final decision on the best performing club or set make-up that feels best and delivers maximum results. At this stage of the process, the ball data for each of the clubs tested can be compared so that the final decision is based purely on data and statistical performance.
4. Ordering Once you have selected the clubs that are right for you, the club fitter will either build the clubs for you or order them directly from the manufacturer where they will be custom built to your exact fitting specifications including shaft length, weight, flex, lie angle and even grip type, colour and size. The right golf clubs and the right fit can exceed your expectations. You will swing much more confidently knowing you have the equipment perfectly fit to your golf swing!
R CC
Member’s Promotion ½ PRICE CLUB EVALUATION & FITTING SESSION through the end of May 2018
Services Available: • Iron Fitting • Driver, Fairway Woods & Hybrid Fitting • Putter Fitting For all Enquiries and Bookings please contact RCC’s Head PGA Professional Chris Marriott. Email:chris@academyofgolf.com.sg Mobile: 98898600 27
Transferring of Handicap to
Another Home Club through the
Central Handicap System
S
ince the announcement to acquire the Club’s land by the Singapore Land Authority, RCC members have been informed that the Club will cease operations from 1 August 2018. Thus, RCC members who are also members of other clubs are encouraged to transfer their handicaps to their new clubs before the Club’s closure.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to transferring your handicap to another home club from your hand phone. Step One - Login
Step Two - Go to Menu
Step Four - Click 'Request Club Transfer'
Step Five - Fill in the Details
Step Three - Click on 'Transfer'
* Members are to take note that the transfer is effective once the new club acknowledges and accepts the request of transfer. For further queries, kindly contact : • Fandy 6864 0846, fandy.kamis@rcc.org.sg • Ifa 6861 7655, nurhuzaifah.mohamed@ rcc.org.sg
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Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
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Delicious Dishes to
Tantalise
Your Taste Buds See you at the Golfers’ Terrace!
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
GOLF
Captain flanked by RCC representatives.
29th Singapore Ladies Amateur Open Golf Championship 20 – 23 March 2018
R
affles Country Club is proud to have hosted the recent 29th Singapore Ladies Amateur Open Golf Championship from 20 to 23 March at the beautiful Lake course. We were able to deliver Lake with a green speed of 11 feet 3 inches, raising the level of competitiveness. The four-day event was blessed with clear blue skies and saw a turnout of 92 ladies hailing from Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, The Philippines, Thailand, India, Taiwan and as far as the Czech Republic.
The flurry of excitement during registration!
Captain receiving the certificate of appreciation.
Captain toasting with the Pink ladies.
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e l y t s e f i L
Acute and Chronic Insomnia By Loh Kum Chuen, Pharmacist
N
early everyone, young or old, suffers from occasional sleepless nights due to excitement in going for holidays, worries of meeting deadlines, pending school examinations, work assignments or after a heavy meal before sleep and hundreds of other reasons for suffering from insomnia. Acute insomnia which may last for days or weeks could also be due to the traumatic experience of losing a loved one or having work stress or a change of sleeping habit but may lead to Chronic long term insomnia, if not addressed.
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder which is characterised by having difficulty to fall asleep at night, to stay asleep, being unable to get sufficient sound sleep, waking up too early and feeling tired and not well rested upon waking up. Insomnia can affect your energy level, your focus and mood, your health, work performance and quality of life. Insufficient sleep weakens your immune system, increases your risk of depression, weight gain and chronic headaches, high blood pressure and heart disease. 32
Chronic insomnia is usually a result of stress, life events or habits that disrupt sleep over a prolonged period of time from months to years. Treating the underlying cause may resolve the insomnia, but sometimes it can last for years. Chronic insomnia may also be associated with medical conditions or the use of certain drugs, food or stimulants. Those having enlarged prostate (BPH) may wake up several times at night to urinate and may have difficulty falling back to sleep. Caffeine is a stimulant, as most may know but not many know that some teas have even higher caffeine content than coffee. Drinking them in the late afternoon or evening may keep some from falling asleep at night. A small pack of liquor may help you fall asleep, but it may prevent deeper stages of restorative sleep and often causes awakening in the middle of the night and may prevent you from falling back to restorative, sound sleep, besides, perhaps having a hangover the next morning.
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
LIFESTYLE
Prevention and Tips: Good sleep habits can help prevent insomnia and promote sound sleep: • Try to keep your bedtime and wake time consistent from day to day, including weekends. • Regular exercise helps promote a good night's sleep. Exercise at least three hours before bed time. Light stretching exercises can be done 20 to 30 minutes before sleeping. • Check your medications to see if they may contribute to insomnia. • Limit naps to not more than 20 minutes. • Avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol in the afternoon or evening • Avoid large meals and beverages before bedtime. • Make your bedroom temperature, lighting and mattress comfortable for sleep. Complete darkness is most ideal for restive sleep. • Create a relaxing bedtime ritual, such as taking a warm bath, reading or listening to soft music and keeping a diary of happy events. Meditation and Yoga to free your mind from mental anxieties may help. If you have problem falling asleep, try counting slowly with each deep breath in and out, 100, 99, 98…zzz • Avoid watching fast action or scary movies before sleep as this may activate your mind to alertness and anxiety. Prescription drugs may be helpful to treat Acute Insomnia but these drugs should not be used for long term as they are addictive and may be subject to abuse.Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain to regulate sleep and wake cycles. Melatonin production is activated around 11 pm to around 3 pm and optimally in the dark so it is important to dim the light in the bedroom and sleep before midnight. Ageing lowers the production of Melatonin so by taking Melatonin supplement 20 to 30 minutes before sleep may help improve the quality of sleep. Calcium and Magnesium supplements taken on a regular basis can help Seniors who are most likely deficient in these minerals to fall asleep by relaxing the
nervous system. Other supplements such as Vitamin B-complex and Zinc are anti-stress and may help to some extent in improving sleep quality. Some herbal products may also help to calm the nerves to promote sound sleep. Valerian root (Valerian officinalis), Passionflower (Passifora incarnate), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), used in Ayuverdic medicine and Magnolia bark (Magnolia officinalis), used in Chinese medicine are some of the herbs that have been used singly or in combination in capsules to help overcome insomnia. German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.) and (Lavandula augustifloia) are calming and soothing teas which have been used for hundreds of years, and are generally safe for consumption, if they are from reliable sources. Some of the above tips and preventive measures for insomnia may be helpful when used in combination, depending on the cause and nature of the insomnia but it is important to ensure that there is no herb-drug interaction before using the above measures.
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Golf Injuries & Prevention –
Top tips for the enthusiastic golf player
G
olf is one of the most popular games in the world, with over 55 million people playing each year. Did you know that nearly 30% of those will experience back pain after every round? Not to mention other ailments in the knee, hip, shoulder and wrist. Usually we simply deal with the pain and continue playing, which often leads to further injury and time away from the golf course. Nothing could be more frustrating. The stress placed through the human body during the golf swing is immense. The efficient golf swing allows a progressive flow of energy from the ground and foot, all the way through the knees, hips, back and shoulders, right up into the wrists and club. Any breakdown in this chain of movements will not only reduce the efficiency of the swing, it will create excessive stress on specific parts of the body. Inefficiency relates to poor and harmful performance, and repetition causes injury.
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By Anthony Corr, Physiotherapist
A lot of golfers come to see us with injuries caused by common swing faults that are a result of physical limitations from our body. If certain key parts of the body are lacking in either mobility (movement) or stability (strength), incorrect movement patterns will arise. As a result, we can overstress different structures, ultimately leading to injury, pain and frustration. Common lower back injuries can include: • Disc injury • Muscle strain or ligament sprain • Joint arthritis • Stress fracture • Dysfunctional movement patterns
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
LIFESTYLE
Other common injuries experienced by golfers include: • Golfer’s elbow • Shoulder pain • Hip arthritis • Meniscus injury in the knee On the flip side to these injuries is our performance. How far do I drive the ball? How accurate are my long irons? How do my concentration levels change through my round (rushing putts and misreading conditions)? These are all key components to our overall performance. Naturally, there are no golfers that perform better when injured!!! At PhysioActive, our physiotherapists are specialized in assessing the body for these physical limitations. This gives us the insight which areas in the body need to improve to prevent injuries and enhance the performance. Furthermore, it helps injured golfers return to play quicker, as we can isolate the causes behind the injury. Take this for an example: whilst in a sitting position, keep your knees and feet together whilst crossing your arms. Then turn your shoulders to the right. If you cannot turn past the 45 degrees from the starting position, you are likely to develop swing characteristics that cause an early loss of posture in the golf swing. This will lead to a loss of power and driving distance, and ultimately excessive stress on your lower back and shoulders (note: the PGA player average for this test is 58-60 degrees). This stress on the back can cause disc bulges, muscle and ligament strain or facet joint arthritis. People who are appropriate for the physical screen and swing analysis are those who want to: • Prevent future injury • Understand and solve current injury • Improve fitness and golf related strength • Find ways to improve their game
What do we do with the results? • Education – help you understand what is happening • Devise a plan – addressing the key areas to improve • Work with your golf coach – correcting swing faults
Anthony Corr is a musculoskeletal physiotherapist and Head Physiotherapist at PhysioActive in Vision Exchange at Jurong East. He has a BSc Degree from the University of Brighton in the UK and is a chartered physiotherapist in the UK, Ireland and Singapore. He specializes in sports physiotherapy and rehabilitation. He has worked with many sportspeople and teams here in Singapore and back in Ireland. He has lived in Singapore for almost 10 years and is a keen fitness enthusiast in his spare time.
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Trip to Mission Hills, Shenzhen 28 March to 3 April 2018 By Tan Poh Kee
A mandatory group photo for the trip.
T
he usually quiet Mission Hills Dongguan resort came alive when the hotel lobby was inundated by 80 RCC members in the afternoon of 28 March 2018. These fearless RCC warriors were there for an important mission - conquering four golf courses in Mission Hills, namely the Vijay, Rose-Poulter, Leadbetter and Ozaki.
The group size of 80 was a record, it was 20 more than the Mission Hills, Shenzhen trip last year. Some members were not comfortable with this group size and opted to come on their own. However, their concerns were unfounded as everything, from local transport arrangement to shotgun tee-off went smoothly without a hitch, and even the weather conditions were perfect. It was simply amazing, to say the least.
In awe of the size of Mission Hills. The view is as charming as
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the ladies!
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
LIFESTYLE
Bird's eye view of Mission Hills, Shenzhen
Breathtaking view as you tee off.
This successful outcome did not happen by chance. It was the result of months of hard work and planning by Yuke Lan, who organised the trip. She painstakingly chiselled in every detail and made sure nothing was left to chance in order to make this trip an enjoyable and affordable one for all.
Flanked by the ladies!
After a restful night of sleep in their comfortable and luxurious rooms, the members made their way through the sprawling maze-like complex with inter-connecting walkways to the restaurant for breakfast. After the sumptuous meal, they eagerly boarded the bus that took them to the Shenzhen clubhouse for their first game at the Vijay course. Upon arrival, the members were greeted warmly by two rows of caddies clad in eye-catching red uniforms at the entrance to the buggy area. This gesture was repeated for all subsequent games. This display of hospitality was rarely seen in other golf courses and it made our experience in Mission Hills even more memorable. All the four golf courses were in superb condition - well manicured fairways, lush green vegetation and birds singing everywhere. The morning air was cool and fresh. The weather was perfect with a gentle breeze and clear blue skies. Standing at the tee box and looking at the surrounding hills, we felt all our cares in the world melting away and no longer worried about the two-legged alligators, buayas and crocodiles in our midst! There were broad smiles round after round as many had played very well. Some smiles were broader because they had won the sixes and were on their way to their ‘jeffrey’ lunch after the game.
Here are the boys - all spruced up!
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The Singapore colours - to say where we are from!
We are all dressed for sho pping!
A glass of wine in one hand and a longevity bun in another... new style of celebrating birthday?
Three of the RCC golfers from the man’s team found themselves promoted to martyrs after failing to ward off the combined onslaught of three ladies in their respective flights. The result was rather one-sided, but in the true spirit of sportsmanship, it was taken very graciously. A trip was of course incomplete without any shopping spree. The golfers were given two opportunities to empty their wallets in a Changping pro-shop and a whole day outing at the Dongmen shopping belt. The finale was a farewell dinner after the last game. The occasion was also one to honour the hard work put in by Yuke Lan and to celebrate golfers with birthdays in the
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month of March and April. It was a noisy and boisterous occasion with toasts, camera-clicking and much merrymaking. It was truly a wonderful way to mark the end of a great trip. So it was the end of the trip and time to leave for the airport. With the impending closure of RCC this July, members had to come to terms with the fact that there would not be another Shenzhen trip next year. Friends and kakis would pick their own golfing journey from then on and paths might never cross again. The consolation for all participants of this trip was that they have memories of a great trip with so many wonderful friends from RCC.
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
LIFESTYLE
Meal time must-haves - table group shots!
Here's another for the album.
Happy faces all around!
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s e l c i t r A l a n o s a e S
Island Golf By Justine Moss
Activites - Snorkelling
W
ith its close proximity to Singapore and easy accessibility, Bintan has long been a draw card for golfers wanting to experience good golf courses and warm Indonesian hospitality. You can head over just for a day, or relax for a few days and play all the courses. BINTAN LAGOON RESORT Bintan Lagoon Resort is set on 300 hectares of beautiful beachfront and overlooks the South China Sea and Riau islands. There are two championship 18-hole golf courses - the Jack Nicklaus Sea View Course offers a more resort feel with spectacular views of the South China Sea, while the Ian Baker Finch (IBF) Woodlands course is set on dramatically changing natural terrain. The par-72 IBF course is designed with the front nine holes snaking out from the resort and the back nine to the clubhouse. The Jack Nicklaus-designed Sea View course is longer and will appeal to golfers of all levels and playing abilities. Aside from the excellent accommodation and facilities is the direct ferry which makes a huge difference with no bus trip to the ferry terminal or queues. It’s a very seamless operation, and is five minute walk up the
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Bintan Lagoon
hill to reception, and takes only 75 minutes to their terminal from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Facilities include a total of 450 resort rooms, suites and villas, clubhouse, pro-shop, driving range, practice putting green, swimming pools, over 50 sea sports, restaurants and SPA. Do also check out their packages – both golf and non-golf.
Raffles Connection • May - Jun 2018
SEASONAL
Banyan Tree - Angsana Bintan
LAGUNA GOLF BINTAN Originally designed by Greg Norman, the course was revamped in 2016 by Laguna Golf and it is pure inspiration for both aspiring and seasoned golfers. In other words, if you are a beginner you’ll still get a huge kick out of playing here with its beautiful location as well as its challenging holes. Set in 60 acres next to the gorgeous Banyan Tree and Angsana resorts, the course winds its way through a diverse terrain of forestland, natural wetlands and beachfront coconut groves. The greens are unpredictable and some advice is to spend a few minutes before your round on the putting green. Holes 10 to 15 play through dense jungle and the unique rock formations. The highlight of the golf course is still yet to come, as the long par 4, hole 16 plays through the jungle back towards the sea. Arriving at the penultimate signature hole 17, golfers are challenged to play directly over the spectacular natural rock formations, from a tee perched over the sea.
Facilities include luxurious accommodation at Banyan Tree, Angsana and the new Cassia appartments which are perfect for a longer stay with your golfing buddies. At the clubhouse there is a driving range, putting and chipping green, changing and locker facilities, a proshop and café.
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Ria Bintan Golf Club
One of Asia’s best-established and leading courses, Ria Bintan Golf Club has consistently been named the best golf course in Asia and Indonesia. Good use has been made of the sea, forested areas and large elevation in the design planning. In 2016 it underwent a facelift and reopened in August of that year. It’s just as challenging and the greens are fast, but there’s no doubt that it’s in great shape. Plus, it’s lost none of its beauty with its signature stretch of 7, 8 and 9 holes just as stunning as before.
RIA BINTAN GOLF CLUB Ria Bintan Golf Club has the stunning Ocean course designed by world-celebrated golfing legend, Gary Player. Set amidst lush landscapes and natural surrounds, golf enthusiasts will appreciate the award winning 18-hole Ocean Course and the 9-hole Forest Course, both of which present hours of fun and challenge.
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Facilities include a pro-shop, driving range, SPA and restaurant. The Ria Golf Lodge offers a memorable stay for those seeking the perfect golf vacation, but if you’re up for a bit more excitement then make the short journey over from Club Med. Accommodation Options While the golf courses are either set on their own property with accommodation available, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to other options. Check out Club Med, The Canopi, Nirwana Gardens and Lagoi Bay Villas.
s
b u l C d e t a i l cal / Affi
Recipro RECIPROCAL CLUBS
AUSTRALIA
INDONESIA
Finna Golf & Country Club East Java, Indonesia
AFFILIATED CLUBS
AUSTRALIA
Avondale Golf Club New South Wales, Australia
Gunung Geulis Country Club West Java, Indonesia
Macquarie Links International Golf Club New South Wales, Australia
JAPAN
BRUNEI
MACAU
CHINA
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
Kunshan Sun Resort & Club Jiangsu Province, China Suzhou SunIsland International Club Jiangsu Province, China Mission Hills Golf Club Shenzhen, China Nanjing SunIsland Leisure & Resort Club Co. Ltd Jiangsu Province, China
Yangzhou Prime International Vacation Club Co. Ltd Shanghai, China
INDIA
Ashinoko Country Club Shizuoka, Japan
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
Araluen Country Club Western Australia. Australia
The Empire Hotel & Country Club Negara Brunei Darussalam
Orient Pearl Golf Club Beijing, China
INDONESIA
Rancamaya Golf & Country Club Ciawi Bogor, Indonesia
JAPAN
Robert Trent Jones II Clubs
MACAU
Macau Golf & Country Club Macau *Weekend only
TPC Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
RESTRICTED LOCAL RECIPROCAL CLUBS**
Meru Valley Golf & Country Club Perak, Malaysia
SINGAPORE
Tropicana Golf & Country Resort Selangor, Malaysia
Orchid Country Club
PHILIPPINES
Alta Vista Golf & Country Club Cebu City, Philippines Eagle Ridge Golf & Country Club General TriasCavite, Philippines
Keppel Club
Sembawang Country Club Warren Country Club Seletar Country Club
**Booking via club balloting
VIETNAM
Chi Linh Star Golf & Country Club Hai Duong, Vietnam Long Thanh Golf Club Dong Nai Province, Vietnam The Montgomerie Links Vietnam Quang Nam Province, Vietnam
Oxford Golf & Country Club Pune, India
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 (Business) yeekiat.yen@rcc.org.sg 6864 0880
GOLFING
Golfing Operations Mr. 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 – Palm & Lake Open Daily: First tee-off: 7:14am Last tee-off: 6:15pm (9 holes)
F&B / Banquet Mr. 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
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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 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
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
DAY TRIP PACKAGE UNLIMITED GOLF IN ONE DAY!
SGD 89 WEEKDAYS
SGD 109
WEEKENDS & PHS
PRICES INCLUSIVE OF: UNLIMITED GOLF WITH SHARED CADDIE & GOLF CART USE OF DRIVING RANGE BEFORE PLAY FAST TRACK SERVICE, LAND TRANSFER & BAG HANDLING LUNCH IN CLUBHOUSE CAFÉ
+62 (0) 770 693 188 | golf@lagunabintan.com | lagunagolf.com/bintan