Golf Asia - 2010 Dec

WWW.GOLFASIA.SG

SGD$8.00 (GST INCL.) / RM16.00 / BND$8

TITLEIST

910 DRIVERS 9 770219 060508

ISSN 0219-0605

1 2

PERFORMANCE PRECISION

VOL.17 / ISSUE 01

contents

15

Foreword

16

T e e b ox

••

Scott back In The Groove

••

HSbC Champions Thriller

••

Mission Hills Star Trophy

••

1st PGA Tour event In Southeast Asia

26

SCene & HeArd

••

A royal Tee off

••

Inaugural AnZ Golf Tournament

••

woods Sees bright Future For Asia

••

Paul Casey designs

31

GeArGuIde

••

woods Tested

••

Tour Van In A Hosel

••

Grip It right

••

The new black

••

burning distance In A ball

••

Forget You’re wearing Shoes

••

FJ dryJoys Tour

••

Limited edition ZL driver

••

High octane woods

56

F e AT u r e

••

Golf ban

60

ProFILe

••

An Italian In London

20

22

24

30

50

51

42

contents

64

THe GAMe

••

Is China Coming?

72

GoLFerS’ rIde

••

double dutch

••

don’t Miss This one

••

SLS AMG Lauded For Its design

84

SHowCASe

••

King of Cognacs

90

weLLneSS

••

our Association with earth

93

eSCAPe

••

A Golfing Sanctuary

••

Golf on The rocks

108

d I r e C To rY

72

82

64 84

94

100

publisher • CECILIA WOO Managing editor • BEn POOn Creative direCtor • TOmmy HOng graphiC designers • LOH CHung LOng • TInT WIn Marketing Manager • TAsmIn CHuA senior Marketing exeCutive • sTEfAnIE yuAn FinanCe Manager • JuLIE KHOng produCtion exeCutive • vErOnICA TEO CustoMer serviCe exeCutive • BETH KWOK ADVERTISIng SAlES - SIngApoRE offIcE: senior business Manager • THOmAs LEOW • JOLyn LIm ADVERTISIng SAlES - MAlAYSIA offIcE: senior business Manager • WEnDy fOng business Manager • DAvID CHOO CustoMer serviCe exeCutive • HErTInA BT BuLATIng MEDIA REpRESEnTATIVES: brunei • LIm mIn yAW sales@purplemedia.asia hong kong / MaCau • mArIAm WOng mariam.wang@publicitas.com indonesia • IrEnE JOHArI irene@golfasiamagazine.com Japan • yOsHInOrI IKEDA pbi2010@gol.com Malaysia • rAJ rAmOO raj30ramoo@yahoo.com.sg south korea / thailand • HEmAnT n. sOnnEy hemant@sonneymedia.com the philippines • sABrInA CHIu sabrina@prostaffasia.com DISTRIBUToRS: SIngApoRE mediaCorp Pte Ltd / MAlAYSIA mPH Distributors sdn Bhd Hong Kong Times Publishing (HK) Ltd / InDonESIA PT Javabooks Indonesia THE pHIlIppInES Asia/Pacific Circulation Exponents, Inc. / THAIlAnD Asia Books Co., Ltd gOLf AsIA mAgAzInE, mICA (P) no.012/02/2010, Issn 0219-0605, PPs 1317/05/2011 (028582), is published monthly by regent media Pte Ltd. no part of articles published here may be reproduced in any other publication, printed or published, without the prior permission of the publisher. The Publisher, however, accepts no responsibility whatsoever for unsolicited manuscripts and materials. regent Media pte ltd 3 Loyang Way singapore 508719 Tel: 65-6543-3681 • fax: 65-6543-3719 • www.golfasia.sg pRInTER: KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd (197801823m) foR EnQUIRIES: EDIToRIAl: golfasia@regentmedia.sg DISTRIBUTIon & SUBScRIpTIon: subscription@regentmedia.sg MARKETIng: marketing@regentmedia.sg ADVERTISIng SAlES: sales@regentmedia.sg HoTlInE: 65-6543-3681 (singapore) / 603-7954-8989 (malaysia)

member of magazine Publishers Association, singapore

contributors

Justine Moss is the principal consultant of Jay Jay Communications, an Asia Pacific communications and language consulting, training and coaching business based in Singapore. Justine has over 17 years’ experience in communications and media industries, having lived and worked in Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Justine regularly writes for print, audio and internet including voiceover, hosting and narration scripts, media releases, feature articles and website features.

natasha Wong started playing golf some 10 years ago and has developed a self-confessed love-hate relationship with the game. These days, she plays off a 9-handicap and encounters a daily battle to curb her over-swing. Aside from being an ardent supporter of women’s golf, Natasha is also passionate about golf travel and photography. Armed with her camera, this amateur photographer is constantly seeking the elusive perfect golf shot… no pun intended!

JiM Banting Founder of an online golfing travel service offering golfing experiences of a lifetime, “golfinbritain.com” as well as “e-Digital” a company specialising in strategic consultancy, creative services and designs for web applications, computer graphics, packaging and book publishing. Golf has been in Jim’s blood from a very early age and he has played many great courses in Europe, America and Australia. A singlefigure golfer for over 30 years, Jim remains one of the few people in the world who has played all 100 of the top courses in Great Britain and a total of over 900 different courses worldwide.

Ken Lye is a keen golfer and currently plays off a 2 handicap. He loves golf and pretty much all things related to golf. He is a ‘quasi’ equipment junkie and especially loves travelling for golf! With a penchant for the rules of golf, Ken is also a qualified SGA Rules Official. Since passing the R & A Rules Exam in 2005, Ken has refereed at professional golf events as well as certain major regional amateur events. Aside from his love of golf, Ken is a former investment banker who now runs his own business in finance and consulting.

Jeffrey tsang Golf statistics say that 75% of golfers play over 100. And according to Jeffrey, he belongs to the majority. Golf to him is for the sheer pleasure of the game and the company of friends. A seasoned PR practioner running Asher Communications, he writes too, about all and sundry, so his pieces are for the rest of us.

nigeL Leach is an R&A qualified Referee, who ‘Passed with Distinction’ at the 2008 R&A Referees school at St Andrews. Nigel has officiated at the Barclays Singapore Open and International Final Qualifying for the British Open Championship as well as many Singapore PGA events. Playing off a 4 handicap, Nigel regards himself as a Rules Official with a player’s perspective. He believes that all players can benefit in terms of improving their scores as well as overall enjoyment of the game from a better knowledge of the Rules.

JaMes sharpe has been a contributor for Golf Asia since 2005. When he’s not scouring Singapore for the latest restaurants and snazziest gadgets, he lectures writing at Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s School of Film & Media Studies. When not working, James enjoys family life with his young Son, the odd bit of Sailing and scooting about on his beloved Vespa.

12

wGolf AsiA

FITTING FORM 11-162 DRIVER MODEL

SHAFT

SQ MACHSPEED BLACK AVG. BALL SPEED

AVG. SMASH FACTOR

170.4 MPH

1.49

AVG. SPIN

2434 RPM

BOTTOM VIEW

FACE VIEW

TOE VIEW

DRIVER CHARACTERISTICS

1.

INITIAL DOWNSWING 2.

DURING DOWNSWING 3.

AT IMPACT

FASTER GOES FARTHER OPTIMAL AERODYNAMICS THROUGHOUT THE SWING REDUCES DRAG FOR MAXIMUM SPEED AT IMPACT.

MORE POWER, MORE FORGIVENESS ROUND GEOMETRY GIVES MORE WORKABILITY, SQUARE GEOMETRY PROVIDES MORE FORGIVENESS— AND BOTH DELIVER POWERFUL DISTANCE.

OWN THE FAIRWAYS STR8-FIT ADJUSTABILITY PROVIDES IDEAL FACE ANGLE FOR ANY SWING TO CORRECT UNWANTED HOOKS AND SLICES.

FOLLOW US

LOFT

X

GET SPEC’D IN THE OVEN AT NIKEGOLF.COM

S

R

A

W

AVG. TOTAL DISTANCE

306.8 YDS

8.5

9.5

10.5

11.5

AVG. LAUNCH ANGLE

9.2º

HL

O u r P r e m i e r G O l f C O u r s e Pa rt n e r s sinGaPOre

malaYsia

inDOnesia

Media•Travel Fair.pdf

9/27/10

2:24:41 PM

PartiCiPatinG traVel fairs

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

meDia sPOnsOr

GOlf asia is aVailaBle OnBOarD

It is also available in the Royal Orchid Lounge, SATS Premiums Club, Rain Forest Lounge, JetQuay Lounge, SIA T2, SIA T3, SIA Paragon and Pacific Coffee at Changi Airport.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND US: Borders, Harris, Kinokuniya, MPH Bookstores, Page One, Times Bookshop, TimesNewslink, Aksara, Borders, Harris, Kinokuniya, MPH Bookstores, Page One, Periplus, Popular Book Store, Times Bookshop, TimesNewslink.

foreword

rise of golf in asia

W

ith the number of golf events held in this region the past few months, there is no shortage of stargazing and great golfing on display. Events such as the HSBC Champions, CIMB Asia Pacific Classic, Mission Hills Star Trophy, Barclays Singapore Open and UBS Hong Kong Open just to name a few, were all held within a couple of weeks of each other. And there’s no doubt each of these events had attracted a sizeable amount of patrons.

With an increase of international golfing greats and rising stars from the PGA, EPGA, LPGA making the trip to Asia, it shows just how much the region has grown in importance and is becoming part of these professionals’ schedule. It also helps that these events often boast a very attractive large prize pool that translates into a huge pay cheque not only for the winners but also for players who make the cut.

With the growing popularity of the game and the region’s rosy economic outlook, it is not surprising that many have set their sights on Asia. Players such as Paul Casey, like Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Nick Faldo and Greg Norman before him, have also ventured into Asia and another aspect of golf, the design of courses.

What does all this mean? It is a sign of the changing of times.

Perhaps in the not too distant future, we may have a tour in Asia that will equal or even surpass the PGA. We will have a pool of quality Asian players that will give the best on the other tours a run for their money.

Corporations seeing the promotional value of such events, will continue to support the tournaments and all though Asia, we will have a wider selection of quality courses that are worthy of hosting large scale international tournaments.

This is not an impossible dream, just think a few years back no one would have imagined an Asian could win a major. Now, looking forward, I’m very sure it wouldn’t be the last.

Ben Poon ben@regentmedia.sg

Golf AsiA

w 15

tee box

Scott Back In The Groove Australian stalwart Adam Scott secured an unprecedented treble of victories at the 2010 Barclays Singapore Open that was beset by several rain delays.

S

cott, had to complete 10 holes on Monday following a five and a half hour delay for thunderstorms on Sunday, sealed the deal with a stunning 10 feet curler for birdie on the final hole with a three-under-par 68 at the US$6 million event co sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.

Anders Hansen of Denmark posted a 68 for a 270 total, finishing three strokes behind Scott while Asian Tour rookie Rikard Karlberg of Sweden fired a last-gasp eagle on hole 18 for a 67 to share third place with Ryder Cup star Graeme McDowell of Northern Ireland on matching 271s at the Sentosa Golf Club.

Korea’s Kang Kyung-nam, who was in 16

wGolf AsiA

contention in the third round, slipped to fifth place with a 272 total followed by Jamie Donaldson of Wales and flamboyant Englishman Ian Poulter, whose title aspirations was dashed after a double bogey on the 15th.

Scott turned in 33 with a three-stroke lead but fell behind with bogeys on holes 10 and 14. But the battling Australian returned strongly with two birdies in his closing four holes to emerge as the first player to win three Singapore Open titles.

“It’s a new experience for me as it’s the first time I’ve won three times. I’m very proud to win the National Open and these are the kind of events that you dream of winning when you’re growing up as a kid,”

Prayad Marksaeng fresh from surgery finished tied 10th.

Best Asian, Korea Kang Kyung-nam finished 5th.

said Scott, whose four-day winning total of 17-under-par 267 was worth US$1 million.“I haven’t been putting my best lately and the demons started creeping in a little bit on the back nine. But fortunately I squashed them and made a good putt on 15. That gave me a little buffer and calmed me down for the last three,” he added.

The former world number three, winner of the tournament in 2005 and 2006, was delighted to finish the week on a high note in the tournament which was extended to a Monday finish.“It feels great. It’s a relief to finally get finished. It’s been a long week and it was a bit of a grind this morning. It’s not an easy back nine to come out and play and I didn’t make it look that easy either, so I’m just happy to be done and be the winner again,” said the popular Australian.

Hansen, a three-time winner in Europe, was battling tooth-and-nail before missing a vital 20-footer birdie putt on the 15th hole.

“I thought if I had holed that one I would only be one behind with three to go and then you never know. But I missed it so the

Graeme McDowell came in tied 3rd.

Ian Paulter faded away in the final holes.

Golf AsiA

w 17

tee box chance was gone. I then thought if I could finish birdie-eagle I might have another chance but it just didn’t happen. Adam is a great player and he thoroughly deserves his victory,” said Hansen.

Karlberg returned to complete nine holes with a flawless homeward nine highlighted by one birdie and one eagle to claim his best finish on the Asian Tour since winning the SAIL Open in India.“The eagle on the last was huge. I just wanted to give it a shot and had a good read of the lie and putted perfectly with the right speed. It felt so good when the shot sank in. It’s so hard to describe what the week has been for me. I’m so tired but I’ve kept patient and most importantly I had a lot of fun,” said Karlberg.

Prayad Marksaeng of Thailand, a six-time Asian Tour champion, was a man on a mission when he returned on Monday morning with two straight birdies on the 10th and 11th holes. However, his round was derailed when he three putted for bogey on hole 12 followed by a wayward tee shot which found water and resulted in a double bogey.

“I was aiming to finish in the topfive but I still had a good placing and this will be a confidence booster in the coming weeks. Overall I’m happy with my performance after returning from injury and an appendix surgery but I need to practise on my putting,” said Prayad, who finished in tied 10th place with Chinese star Liang Wenchong. a

Phil Mickelson completed the event tied 37th.

Scores & prize money from the US$6 million Barclays Singapore Open.

POS 1 2 3 3 5 6 6 8 8 10 10 10 10 14 14 16 16 16 16 16 21 21 21 21 25 25 25 25 25 25

PLAYER Adam SCOTT (AUS) Anders HANSEN (DEN) Graeme MCDOWELL (NIR) Rikard KARLBERG (SWE) KANG Kyung-nam (KOR) Ian POULTER (ENG) Jamie DONALDSON (WAL) Keith HORNE (RSA) Miguel Angel JIMÉNEZ (ESP) Prayad MARKSAENG (THA) LIANG Wen-chong (CHN) Martin KAYMER (GER) Chris WOOD (ENG) Joost LUITEN (NED) Shigeki MARUYAMA (JPN) Rafael CABRERA-BELLO (ESP) Y. E. YANG (KOR) Johan EDFORS (SWE) Jeev Milkha SINGH (IND) Raphaël JACQUELIN (FRA) Francesco MOLINARI (ITA) Darren BECK (AUS) Hiroshi IWATA (JPN) David DRYSDALE (SCO) Peter LAWRIE (IRL) Thongchai JAIDEE (THA) Nick DOUGHERTY (ENG) Søren KJELDSEN (DEN) Colin MONTGOMERIE (SCO) SIDDIKUR (BAN)

Selected 37 Mardan MAMAT (SIN) 37 Phil MICKELSON (USA)

18

wGolf AsiA

R1 65 71 65 64 66 69 66 65 66 69 69 68 63 68 64 67 66 66 70 66 69 70 66 68 67 67 65 69 70 67

R2 65 66 68 70 67 63 69 72 71 65 65 68 73 64 74 69 73 71 64 70 69 67 70 70 71 70 72 69 68 71

R3 69 65 68 70 67 68 68 69 71 70 71 70 71 73 70 69 66 69 74 72 67 69 71 69 68 70 71 70 70 76

R4 68 68 70 67 72 73 70 68 66 71 70 69 68 71 68 72 72 71 69 69 73 72 71 71 73 72 71 71 71 65

TOT 267 270 271 271 272 273 273 274 274 275 275 275 275 276 276 277 277 277 277 277 278 278 278 278 279 279 279 279 279 279

+/-17 -14 -13 -13 -12 -11 -11 -10 -10 -9 -9 -9 -9 -8 -8 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -6 -6 -6 -6 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5

PRIZE(US$) 1000000 666660 337800 337800 254400 195000 195000 142200 142200 107550 107550 107550 107550 90000 90000 77880 77880 77880 77880 77880 66900 66900 66900 66900 57900 57900 57900 57900 57900 57900

68 67

70 69

69 75

74 70

281 281

-3 -3

40200 40200

545 Orchard Road #02-15 Far East Shopping Centre Singapore 238882 Tel: +65 6732 7077 Fax: +65 6732 3733 Website: www.golfcenter.com.sg Email: mail.us@golfcenter.com.sg

tee box

HSBC Champions Thriller

By Dan martin

I

taly’s Francesco Molinari held off new world number one Lee Westwood of England to take the HSBC Champions title in Shanghai in a thrilling finale that went down to the last hole.

Westwood needed to sink an eagle putt on the 18th to force a play-off but his effort drifted wide, giving Molinari a welldeserved second career victory after four impressive rounds in Shanghai.

Molinari and Westwood had ended each day first and second, pulling away from the rest of the pack as they duelled each other, but Westwood was never able to seize the lead despite showing the form that has earned him the top ranking.

“He is the number one in the world and played fantastic golf, putting me under real pressure all the time and all the way to the end,” said Molinari, who leaps up 16 spots to 14th in the world 20

wGolf AsiA

rankings with his win. “The (other players) were seven or eight shots behind and we just focused on each other and trying to birdie every hole because we were both playing well and knew that par was not good enough.”

Molinari shot a five-under 67 on the final day to end the tournament a combined 19 under par, while Westwood’s 67 left him one stroke back.

Westwood said there were “no negatives” in a performance that saw him avoid bogeys in the final two rounds despite having played only sporadically in recent months due to nagging leg injuries.

“That’s pretty good after three weeks off hardly hitting the ball,” he said.

Scotland’s Richie Ramsay tied with Englishman Luke Donald for third place on nine under par in Asia’s premier golf tournament at the Sheshan International

Golf Club. A final-day 67 lifted Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy into fourth place.

Tiger Woods rebounded from disappointing middle rounds with a facesaving 68 on Sunday but that left him with only a share of sixth place for the tournament at seven under.

It was the struggling American superstar’s first tournament in five years without the world number one ranking after Westwood supplanted him at the top last week to cap a miserable year for Woods. “Overall I felt like I’ve been hitting it well and it’s just a matter of being patient,” said Woods, who is trying to correct his recent poor form with new coach Sean Foley.

Woods’s game has tanked since revelations of his extra-marital affairs emerged a year ago, ruining his marriage to ex-wife Elin Nordegren and leading to

a five-month hiatus from golf. He has not won a tournament since.

Westwood’s stellar showing secures his hold on the top ranking. “The rankings come as a consequence of playing well, and I’m playing well and I know I am,” said Westwood, who has faced questions about his failure so far to win a Major. “It is just very typical of how I’ve played for the last two years.”

Molinari and Westwood put on a show for the gallery, with the Italian moving two strokes ahead with a birdie on the par-five second hole, and Westwood pulling back within one with a birdie of his own on the 10th.

The turning point came on the 16th hole, when Westwood’s weak chip failed to reach the green. He parred while Molinari birdied to go two strokes up.

After both parred the 17th, Westwood boldly swung for the green with his second shot of the par-five 18th as Molinari laid up safely. It left Westwood needing the eagle putt of about 25 feet that was not to be. “I just needed the breaks to win and didn’t happen,” Westwood said.

Besides his big boost in the rankings, Molinari also takes US$1.2 million of the World Golf Championship tournament’s US$7 million purse. a

A thrilled Francesco Molinari said he hoped his stirring win at the HSBC Champions over world number one Lee Westwood would give golf a lift back home in football-mad Italy. “I mean, football, it’s huge in Italy. We are trying to change that,” Molinari said after securing victory to give himself an early birthday present a day before he turned 28.

Both Molinari and his elder brother Edoardo were hugely disappointing in Europe’s victorious Ryder Cup team but his success in Shanghai follows compatriot Matteo Manassero’s win at the Castello Masters last month. That victory made Manassero the youngest-ever European Tour winner, at the age of 17.

“You know, me and Edoardo and Matteo, we are doing our best to have news in the newspaper about golf, and I think we are doing quite well. So hopefully they will start talking a bit more about golf, as well,” Molinari said.

“I’m obviously amazed the way I played, and you know, to have the number one player in the world trailing you by one shot, it’s not easy,” he said. “I just played really well, and behaved really well on the golf course. So (it) just feels fantastic.”

Golf AsiA

w 21

tee box

Mission Hills Star Trophy Fending off a star-studded field at the glamorous Mission Hills Star Trophy, Lorena Ochoa went home with the US$1.28 million purse, the largest prize in Asia.

M

ission Hills hosted the inaugural Mission Hills Star Trophy procelebrity golf tournament at Mission Hills Haikou from October 28-31, 2010. Popular local and international celebrities including Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michael Phelps, Hugh Grant, Matthew McConaughey, Christian Slater, Aaron Kwok and Eric Tsang faced-off against professional golfers like Sir Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomerie, Lorena Ochoa, Annika Sorenstam and Se Ri Pak. In addition to the pro-celebrity team event, the professionals competed for one of Asia’s richest individual golfing prize of US$1.28 million on the resort’s picturesque par 73 Blackstone course.

Lorena Ochoa, who retired earlier this year as the world number one, posted rounds

Catherine with Simon Yam

“You can go anYwhere in the world with Your golf bag and prettY much have a great three-hour round, five-hour round or even a sevenhour round and You meet people and enjoY the camaraderie and that’s one of the main things i love about the sport.” catherine Zeta-jones is a golfer at heart

22

wGolf AsiA

Hugh Grant

Team event winners Eric Tsang & LPGA player, Candie Kung.

of 71-71 to finish at four-under 142 in the 36-hole professional tournament, enough to give her a two-shot victory over Colin Montgomerie in the race for the bumper ‘winner take all’ first-place cheque.

Montgomerie and Ochoa staged a seesaw battle all Sunday afternoon, with the pair each recording four birdies for the day and the lead swapping on multiple occasions.

Montgomerie reached four-under and took a one-shot lead with a 10-foot birdie putt on par-four 17th, before making a regulation par-five at the last hole.

However, the 2010 Ryder Cup-winning captain, playing two groups in front of Ochoa, incurred a two-shot penalty after his caddie moved an advertising sign at the par-four 16th. Combined with Ochoa’s up and down for birdie at the final hole, the Mexican earned a two-shot buffer and the US$1.28 million cheque.

Said Ochoa:“It was really an amazing day.

It was just a case that everything went well over the two days and I was a 100 percent focused on every single shot. I tried to do my best all the time and it paid off.”

“I made some great par saves, making some six and 10-foot putts and I think that’s why I’m here (as the winner). Right now I’m going to enjoy it, there’s no more golf to think about. I’m going to enjoy it and go home really happy,” she added.

In the team event, played in the four-ball stroke play format, LPGA player Candie Kung and Hong Kong celebrity Eric Tsang emerged as champions. They added a blistering 63 to Saturday’s five-under 68 to

Individual event champ, Lorena Ochoa.

“i was verY surprised that such a hardworking comedian is such a good golfer. he was verY good on the course; directing people around and i said to him ‘eric, i am the captain.’ he was verY lovelY.” rosie jones on eric tsang

finish on 15-under 131 and beat home duo Kong Wei Hai and Ye Zhao Ying by one shot.

China pop star Sun Nan and another LPGA player Feng Shanshan were another shot behind in third place. a Golf AsiA

w 23

tee box

1st PGA Tour Event In Southeast Asia

By M. Jegathesan

A

merican Ben Crane held his nerve to win the PGA Tour’s first event in Southeast Asia, firing a closing 69 to hold off charging Englishman Brian Davis.

Crane sunk a pressure-packed birdie on the last hole to beat Davis by a stroke and pick up a one-million-dollar cheque at the CIMB Asia-Pacific Classic, a tournament co-sanctioned with the Asian Tour.

Scotland’s Martin Laird, who was only beaten to the Shriners Hospital Open title when Jonathan Byrd fired a hole-in-one at the fourth playoff hole, kept his good form going to finish with a 66.

It left him in third place with world number eight Luke Donald of England.

A group of six players were two strokes further back, including South Africa’s Ernie Els, Australia’s Robert Allenby and Singapore’s Mardan Mamat, the best-placed Asian Tour star. The victory was Crane’s second of the season, following his win at the Farmers

A memorable win for Ben Crane.

24

wGolf AsiA

Luke Donald

Insurance Open at Torrey Pines. But he did it the hard way in Kuala Lumpur, almost throwing away the title with bogeys on the 12th, 13th and 14th before an eagle at the 15th put him back in contention.

“I just regrouped and kept to the process and didn’t get ahead of myself. I knew I was still in the tournament. I hit an unbelievable shot on 16 with my driver and that kind of turned things around,” he said.“I didn’t know where I stood but I heard someone in the crowd say ‘play-off’. I thought I was probably tied going into the last hole and that was an unbelievable finish.”

Crane added that he was proud to be the first champion of the new tournament, and to be able to win it in such dramatic fashion.

“I’ve never won a tournament where it’s been hanging on a putt like that on the last hole,” said the 34-year-old.

Davis stroked a five-under-par 66 for a total of 267 to keep the pressure on and was hoping to take the tournament to a play-off, but Crane’s last-hole heroics denied the Englishman glory.

“I played good all week and kept myself in the hunt. Finished strong but it just quite wasn’t good enough. I am quite disappointed,” said Davis, who is still searching for a first PGA Tour victory.

“I missed a short putt on the par four 15th (for bogey) which was a big error there. But I managed to dig deep for birdie, eagle, birdie finish and thought it might be good enough

to get me into a play-off. But congratulations to Ben. Hopefully I’ll get my turn next time.”

The ever-popular Els hit a final round five-under 66, with four closing birdies, for a four-day total of 270.“I was really from tee to green, I was on fire. I don’t think I missed a green all day,” said the world number 11.

It was a sweet result for birthday boy Mardan, who picked up US$237,500, the biggest payday of his career.“It is a good birthday gift but I’m a bit disappointed with my putting. I couldn’t hole any putts but I was solid from tee-to-green,” said the 43-year-old Singaporean, winner of two Asian Tour titles.

The US$6 million event featured only the leading 25 golfers from the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup standings, along with the top 10 players from the Asian Tour and five sponsor exemptions. a

Mardan picked up the biggest pay check of his career.

Golf AsiA

w 25

scene & heard

A Royal Tee Off

By Justine Moss

I

t’s not very often that one receives an invitation to play in a golf tournament that has been conceptualized by a member of royalty, but the opportunity to tee it up next to them for 18 holes is probably even more unusual. The inaugural Kedah International Red Tee Invitation Golf Championship tournament, which was staged in Langkawi, Malaysia, back in September, was the brainchild of avid golfer HRH Tuanku Sultanah Kedah Darul Aman, who invited 50 local and international female amateur golfers from Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and Brunei.

The Max Wexler-designed 18-hole layout at Gunung Raya Golf Resort was the venue for the tournament, and is set in over 300 acres of former rubber plantation land at the base of mountain Gunung Raya - the highest peak on Langkawi Island.

The evening before the tournament I received an unexpected call from the concierge at my hotel to inform me that HRH Tuanku Sultanah had requested my company in her flight the following morning.

A potent mixture of delight and fear gripped

26

wGolf AsiA

me, not only would I have to curb any colourful language inadvertently uttered after a bad shot, but I was also naturally apprehensive about how I would play. I spent a sleepless night worrying about my performance alongside HRH Tuanku Sultanah whose handicap is a credible 18. I had been informed she was a rather accomplished golfer, and this became more and more apparent as the round went on. Practice makes perfect, as the saying goes, and she did share with me that she manages to play the game on a regular basis.

My fears, I’m happy to add, were unfounded. Even though it was a little surreal playing golf amongst an entourage of bodyguards and ball spotting aides (very handy in my case) who doubled as umbrella-carrying chaperones, I am relieved to report that not a curse passed my lips, my performance was average rather than a total embarrassment, and while my royal companion had an exceptional game, she couldn’t have been more welcoming warm and friendly. A rain-shortened round did nothing to dampen the spirit and

HRH Tuanku Sultanah Kedah Darul Aman

camaraderie of the players.

At the gala dinner that evening it seemed fitting that HRH Tuanku Sultanah was crowned overall champion with 33 stableford points on count back from Nik Jah Mahmud. Thai trio Thitapa Pakdeesettakul (32), Malee Lee (31) and Pimjai Phakamart (31) rounded out the top five.

One of the event’s aims was to promote Langkawi as a golfing destination in a country that has around 170 golf courses and is fast becoming a major golf destination in South-East Asia, attracting golf enthusiasts from all over the world. Continued support for this inaugural tournament should ensure that it becomes a permanent fixture on the country’s ladies golfing calendar. a

Inaugural ANZ Golf Tournament

A

NZ held its first golf tournament for its cardholders at one of Singapore’s premier golf courses, the Sentosa Golf Club’s Tanjong course. The event allowed ANZ to network with cardholders and reinforce its aims to provide attractive lifestyle related benefits.

A total of 125 golfers participated in the tournament and each golfer received a generous and ample goodie bag worth

S$405. As they arrived, golfers were served welcome drinks of sparkling wine by gracious models.

For registration, all they needed to do was collect their scorecards and proceed to the changing room where a goodie bag, t-shirt and cap were already prepared within each personalised locker, a hallmark of ANZ’s personalised attention for each customer.

For those needing a quick tune up before

the round, golf professionals Skye Neal and Grant Balcke were stationed at the driving range and putting green to give out last minute tips before tee off.

The evening was an entertaining affair, with model host Nadya Hutagalung providing much of the entertainment with her quick and witty banter with the guests. The event came to a close with many already in anticipation of the next. a Golf AsiA

w 27

scene & heard

Tiger Woods shakes hands with Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva during a meeting at Government House in Bangkok on November 8, 2010. Woods is in Thailand to take part in a one-day golf event in Chonburi province, outside Bangkok.

Woods Sees Bright Future For Asia T

iger Woods said he is upbeat about prospects for golf in Asia and expects to see more events in the region in the near future. The former number one put on another disappointing performance at a fourman charity skins tournament, the “World Golf Salutes King Bhumibol” tournament in Chonburi province on November 8th, in his mother’s home country, but said it was “great being back” in Thailand. The “World Golf Salutes King Bhumibol” tournament aims to be a part of the celebration of His Majesty the King’s Birthday and the 60th Anniversary of his accession to the throne.

“Obviously this region is growing in the 28

wGolf AsiA

game of golf. There’s no doubt you’ll see more events down the pipeline in Asia,” Woods said. The US golf star lost his world number one ranking to Englishman Lee Westwood after a 281-week tenure at the top, is still searching for his first tournament victory of 2010.

Woods has endured a torrid time since his return to golf in April following a scandal that engulfed his personal and professional life.

“In order to be number one in the world you have to win golf tournaments and I didn’t do that this year,” he told media at the Amata Spring Country Club near Bangkok after losing in the “World Golf Salutes King Bhumibol”

tournament. “I had numerous opportunities to play well but I didn’t do it.”

Camilo Villegas of Colombia came out tops with a total of US$109,800 in the 18hole tournament. Britain’s Paul Casey came second with US$92,400 dollars, followed

by Thai number one Thongchai Jaidee on US$90,000 US dollars, leaving Woods trailing in fourth with just US$6,600 dollars for one skin. The prize money will go to a charity foundation.

In a skins tournament, a pot of money is up for grabs for each hole and if no player wins the hole outright, it is carried over to the next one. a

Ria Golf lodGe The PeRfecT holiday!

Golf at Ria Bintan Club whilst staying at the brand new RIA GOLF LODGE! Roll out of bed onto the award-winning RIA BINTAN GOLF course in just minutes plus never to worry about early check-out times, dragging your luggage around and wasting precious golfing times waiting in departure lounges.

Choose from 31 unique rooms to make your golfing holiday the true experience it should be!

sofT oPeNiNG sPecials

PAR/BIRDIE ROOm

EAGLE ROOm

ALBATROSS ROOm

2 Days 1 Night Package from $179 Per golfer Package inclusive: • 1 night stay at Ria Golf Lodge in twin-share room • 1 round of 18-hole golf game with share buggy and share caddy • Return ferry and return land transfers in Bintan

3 Days 2 Nights Package from $381 Per golfer Package inclusive: • 2 nights stay at Ria Golf Lodge in twin-share room • 3 rounds of 18-hole golf games with share buggy and share caddy • Return ferry and return land transfers in Bintan

terms and conditions i Stay and Play packages are valid from October – December 2010 i Accommodation at Ria Golf Lodge PAR room exclude breakfast. i Surcharge is applicable for upgrade to BIRDIE, EAGLE or ALBATROSS rooms and for Weekends, Eve of and Singapore Public Holidays. i Package prices are subject to change without prior notice.

For reservation and enquiries, please contact ria Bintan golf club Tel: 6546 7555 I Email: booking@riabintan.com I Website: www.riabintan.com

scene & heard

Paul Casey Designs P

aul Casey will design his first golf course at the Shimei Bay Resort on Hainan Island in China. Casey and his design team from IMG recently attended a formal signing ceremony, conducted a site review and attended planning meetings in Hainan. Design work is already under way and construction will start in approximately mid-2011. During his visit Casey also visited a local village and made a donation to the local Wanning Government to assist victims of Typhoon Megi.

Michael H.K. Wang, Managing Director of China Resources Shimei Bay Tourism Development (Hainan) Ltd. commented, “We are very excited to have Paul Casey design our Shimei Bay golf course. Paul has certainly demonstrated a professional attitude and passion for golf course design during this initial site visit. We have a common goal in wanting to create a golf course that is not only of the highest quality, but also the most unique on Hainan Island. Our entire Shimei Bay project will be based on high quality and world class standards and the golf course will be no exception.”

Paul Casey, said, “I am very excited to work on my first ever golf course design with a company such as China Resources Company. Shimei Bay is already a very impressive resort in a beautiful area and I 30

wGolf AsiA

am up to the challenge of designing a golf course that will fit in and become one of the finest in Hainan. It’s also great that my first design project is in China as I always enjoy visiting and playing in China having won two events here in my career, including on Hainan Island back in 2005. I have been studying golf course design for many years and look forward to putting some of my ideas into play at Shimei Bay.”

Paul Casey of England is currently ranked number 7 in the world; he burst onto the professional scene in 2000 following an extremely successful amateur career.

He already has 11 tournament victories worldwide including 9 on the European Tour and 1 on the US PGA Tour. He also teamed with Luke Donald to win the WGC-World Cup in 2004 and was a member of European Ryder Cup teams in 2006/2008. a

www.golfasia.sg

Equipment Accessories Apparels Tests

gearguide

gearguide

WOODS TESTED Clubs designed for the perfeCt blend of power and aCCuraCy PICTURES HOWARD BOYLAN AND TOM CRITCHELL

best friend find a fairway wood that you're comfortable with and watch those scores tumble.

32

wGolf AsiA

hOW WE raTED ThE WOODS SEE WHICH Wood WorkS for you ANd STArT SAVING SHoTS

F

rom the Tiger Woods stinger off the tee to the high-launching approach shot to the green, fairway woods have proven themselves a vital part of the golfing armoury in the quest for lower scores.

Easier to hit than a driver and longer than a hybrid, they are designed to provide the perfect blend of power and accuracy that even the best players in the world struggle with.

That said, many higher-handicap amateur players shy away from pulling a 3-wood out of the bag because they can be intimidated by the small head in relation to the length of shaft.

However, we have assembled a team of golfers of varying abilities to test the best current clubs on the market in order to help you find one that works for you.

Rest assured, if you do find a fairway wood you are confident with you will see scores start tumbling.

THE METHODOLOGY Each tester can hit as many shots with each club as he wants in order to feel comfortable before rating each out of five in four subjective categories: looks, tee performance, fairway performance and forgiveness.

We then take an average distance and consistency of dispersion reading from our Trackman data and award marks out of five for each. Our testers hit an equal number of shots from tee and fairway and an average was taken from all those shots.

We use Trackman because it is used and trusted by virtually all the major manufacturers on Tour and because it provides instant, accurate and comprehensive data on each shot in real time.

It can also be used by experienced professionals as a comprehensive clubfitting tool and a training analysis aid for swing coaching. For information visit www.trackman.dk

TH E TESTERS

TH E C LU BS

James Frow Belfry pro Not the longest hitter, but his strike consistency is a major benefit.

Stuart McInnes HCP 4 A former pro, Stuart now perfectly represents the better player.

David Connor HCP 10 Represents the mid-handicappers who struggle with consistency.

Roger Quinton-Jones HCP 19 Straight, but not very long.

We invited all the major manufacturers to provide fairway woods of 15° loft with suitable shafts for our testers. The clubs on test also varied from the high-launching and more forgiving game-improver woods to the more penetrating Tour-inspired clubs.

TH E R ATINGS Pretty self explanatory really, the more stars the better. The final star rating is an average of the scores from each of the six categories our testers rated.

★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★

Must buy Excellent Good Average Avoid

THE vENUE With 34 hitting bays, five state-of-the-art fitting rooms and a great shortgame area at The Belfry’s PGA National Fitting Centre, there’s no better place for a comprehensive club test.

Plus they’ve a host of top teaching professionals at your disposal. For on-course testing, three 18-hole tracks (four-time Ryder Cup venue The Brabazon, the PGA

National and the Derby) all provide different challenges.

Call, email or visit the website for some great stay-and-play deals, including the chance to play the Brabazon.

The Belfry Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield, B76 9PR Email: enquiries@thebelfry.com Web: www.thebelfry.com

* Specifications and availability may vary in different markets.

Golf AsiA

w 33

gearguide

RAM SDXII

BENROSS vX PROTO

BEN SAYERS RS21

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 21° Web: www.ramgolf.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 19°, 21° Web: www.benrossgolf.com

Lofts available: 15° Web: www.bensayers.com

VeRDICT: Testers thought this was easy to get in the air and there were good results although some didn’t feel ball flight was consistent.

VeRDICT: Won praise for its compact head shape.

David and Stuart thought it a good option though both would pay more for the PVD version.

VeRDICT: Performance-wise this did well, but some were put off by the graphics on the crown, which they said were fussy and unnecessary.

Looks: 2.8 Tee: 3.9 Fairway: 3.6 Forgiveness: 3.4 Distance: 4.1 Dispersion: 4 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 3.8 Tee: 3.8 Fairway: 3.4 Forgiveness: 3.4 Distance: 3.8 Dispersion: 3.9 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 3.1 Tee: 3.5 Fairway: 3.8 Forgiveness: 3.4 Distance: 4.1 Dispersion: 4.3 RATING ★★★★★

CALLAWAY FTiZ

MD SUPERSTRONG

NIKE SQ MACHSPEED

Lofts available: 13°, 15°, 18°, 21°, 24° Web: www.callawaygolf.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 21° Web: www.mdgolf.co.uk

Lofts available: 15°, 17°, 19°, 21° Web: www.nikegolf.com

VeRDICT: Some testers couldn’t get past the slightly odd shape, but virtually everyone marked it highly for forgiveness and performance.

VeRDICT: A good all-rounder. Overall our team preferred it from the tee than the fairway. Good components in a club for this price.

VeRDICT: Another good performer let down by its looks. excellent fairway and forgiveness ratings. It's designed with a square head for a reason!

Looks: 3 Tee: 3.4 Fairway: 3.9 Forgiveness: 4.3 Distance: 4.1 Dispersion: 4.1 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 3.5 Tee: 4 Fairway: 3.5 Forgiveness: 3.9 Distance: 4 Dispersion: 4.3 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 2.8 Tee: 3.9 Fairway: 4.4 Forgiveness: 4.3 Distance: 3.9 Dispersion: 4.1 RATING ★★★★★

CLEvELAND LAUNCHER DST

MD SEvE ICON

TOUR EDGE XOTICS XCG3

Lofts available: 13°, 15°, 17°, 19°, 22° Web: www.clevelandgolf.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18° Web: www.mdgolf.co.uk

Lofts available: 15°, 18° Web: n/a

VeRDICT: A slightly larger head meant it performed well off the tee, but our testers felt confident hitting balls off the deck as well.

VeRDICT: Universally liked by our three amateur testers. Stuart felt more confident off the fairway than the tee because of the high launch.

VeRDICT: A quality club that delivered consistently on performance. Its deep face meant our testers preferred it off the tee.

Looks: 3.6 Tee: 4.1 Fairway: 3.6 Forgiveness: 3.8 Distance: 4.1 Dispersion: 4.1 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 3.3 Tee: 4 Fairway: 4.1 Forgiveness: 3.9 Distance: 4 Dispersion: 4.4 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 4 Tee: 4 Fairway: 3.3 Forgiveness: 3.6 Distance: 4.6 Dispersion: 4.3 RATING ★★★★★

34

wGolf AsiA

MIZUNO MP

WILSON FYBRID HS

BENROSS vX PROTO PvD

Lofts available: 13.5°, 15°, 18° Web: www.mizuno.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 19.5° Web: www.wilsonstaff.com

Lofts available: 15°, 19° Web: www.benrossgolf.com

VeRDICT: Designed with a slightly open face and compact head for the better player and Roger admitted it wasn’t for him. The others liked it.

VeRDICT: A deep face made this popular off the tee.

David and Roger praised its forgiveness while it was a good performer for the other two.

VeRDICT: This excelled in Stuart’s hands. Pro James and Roger didn’t think it was the most forgiving, but David and Stuart rated it highly.

Looks: 4.4 Tee: 4 Fairway: 3.8 Forgiveness: 3.1 Distance: 4.4 Dispersion: 4.1 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 4 Tee: 4 Fairway: 3.9 Forgiveness: 3.9 Distance: 3.9 Dispersion: 4.1 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 4 Tee: 3.8 Fairway: 3.9 Forgiveness: 3.5 Distance: 4.4 Dispersion: 4.6 RATING ★★★★★

ADAMS SPEEDLINE FAST 10

PING i15

NIKE vR STR8-FIT TOUR

Lofts available: 15°, 18° Web: www.adamsgolf.com

Lofts available: 14°, 15.5°, 18° Web: www.ping.com

Lofts available: 13°, 15°, 17°, 19° Web: www.nikegolf.com

VeRDICT: The sleek head and open face should suit a better player, but it was liked by all. Stuart felt it was solid off the tee and easy to get airborne.

VeRDICT: Another better-player option with an open face and compact head. Testers rated it slightly better off the fairway than the tee.

VeRDICT: Nike’s better-player did not appeal to TG's high handicapper. The others loved the strong, penetrating flight and the adjustable hosel.

Looks: 4 Tee: 3.9 Fairway: 3.9 Forgiveness: 3.9 Distance: 4.1 Dispersion: 4.4 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 4.6 Tee: 4.1 Fairway: 4.3 Forgiveness: 3.5 Distance: 3.9 Dispersion: 4 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 4.4 Tee: 4.3 Fairway: 3.9 Forgiveness: 3.9 Distance: 4.4 Dispersion: 4 RATING ★★★★★

SRIXON Z-TX

MIZUNO MX-700

TAYLORMADE R9 Ti

Lofts available: 15°, 18° Web: www.srixon.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 21° Web: www.mizuno.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 21° Web: www.taylormadegolf.com

VeRDICT: A favourite with everyone – particularly better players Stuart and James. Strong performance stats were backed up by healthy ratings.

VeRDICT: Three testers rated this very highly and in performance terms it was right up there. It was highlaunching, powerful and forgiving.

VeRDICT: The titanium head and adjustable hosel won favour with our testers. It was one of the longest clubs on test.

Looks: 4.4 Tee: 4.3 Fairway: 3.9 Forgiveness: 4 Distance: 4.5 Dispersion: 4 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 4 Tee: 4.1 Fairway: 4.1 Forgiveness: 4.4 Distance: 4.4 Dispersion: 4 RATING ★★★★★

Looks: 3.9 Tee: 4.3 Fairway: 4.1 Forgiveness: 4.1 Distance: 4.6 Dispersion: 4.3 RATING ★★★★★

Golf AsiA

w 35

gearguide

SPEED DEMON The Burner Superfast is designed with speed and distance in mind.

gOOD lOOkEr Sublime looks bely the Nanospeed 3i’s monstrous distance.

TAYlOrMADE BUrNEr SUPErFAST

DISTANCE ENHANCING AND VERSATILE…

A GOOD-LOOKING DEMON OFF THE DECK…

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 21° Web: www.taylormadegolf.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18°, 21° Web: www.yonex.com

This excelled in everyone’s hands and pro James said it felt powerful and long – perfect for someone looking to add a few yards to their game. It was rated very highly by our testers both off the deck and as a driver replacement off the tee, although both David and Stuart said they would prefer a more penetrating flight.

According to our testers, this was the joint best-looking club on test. The sleek, unfussy design and compact head profile won it top marks with David and Stuart even before they had put it behind the ball, although pro James admitted it might intimidate a higher handicapper at first.

David felt this was one of the most forgiving clubs on test, an opinion shared by pro James, while Roger couldn’t miss – posting a dispersion of just four yards. Aesthetically, only Stuart marked it down because of a marginally larger head and slightly triangular shape, while the other testers liked the sleek design.

Although this has been primarily designed as a game-improver club, it has been popular in the hands of TaylorMade’s Tour players and therefore it is no great surprise to see our testers rate it so highly. A top effort from TaylorMade.

36

YONEX NANOSPEED 3i

Incredibly forgiving was how our low and mid handicapper testers described this club. They both found it easy to launch and that’s why both rated it better off the deck than the tee, as did pro James. Roger found the opposite and he enjoyed a great ball flight off the tee, while it was also one of his longest on test.

Overall all four testers said they would have no problem putting this in their bag straight away – which is high praise indeed – although Stuart admitted he would prefer to bring the ball flight down slightly to make it a more effective option for him.

THE VERDICT

THE VERDICT

Looks: 4 Tee: 4.3 Fairway: 4.1 Forgiveness: 4.1 Distance: 4.5 Dispersion: 4.5 RATING:HHHHH

Looks: 4.6 Tee: 3.8 Fairway: 4.4 Forgiveness: 4 Distance: 4.6 Dispersion: 4.3 RATING:HHHHH

wGolf AsiA

THUMBS-UP When it comes to results, Callaway's Diablo Edge delivers time and again.

GO LOW New low-profile design is five per cent lower than previous models for easy launch.

CALLAWAY DIABLO EDGE

NICKLAUS ML 3X3

TOP PeRFORMeR DeSPITe ITS APPeARANCe…

SURPRISe PACKAGe THAT PACKS A PUNCH…

Lofts available: 15°, 17°, 19°, 21°, 24° Web: www.callawaygolf.com

Lofts available: 15°, 18° Web: www.nicklausgolf.com

This lost out a little in the looks stakes but excelled everywhere else, which is where it really counts. Pro James said this had proven itself to be a fantastic golf club and would be a good buy for any level of golfer.

He insisted golfers should forget the looks and concentrate on performance, which is where the Diablo edge comes into its own.

Few clubs on the test united opinion as much as the ML 3X3, with all four testers rating it very highly indeed. It would be fair to say it wasn’t where the smart money was before the test, but the top-quality Fujikura shaft and compact shallow head really won our testers over – and the performance results were pretty impressive as well.

Roger said the Diablo edge was one of the most forgiving clubs on test.

And not only that, it was his longest as well. David was equally complimentary, giving it top marks off the tee, fairway and in the forgiveness stakes as well as commenting on the powerful ball flight he achieved.

Stuart loved the traditional looks and said he would have no hesitation using it on the course, while Roger said the balance and the weight of the club felt absolutely spot-on. Pro James preferred it off the tee rather than the fairway but David gave it top marks off the short stuff as well as rating it highly for forgiveness.

Stuart said he couldn’t argue with the results but felt it was too light off the face and he wasn’t a fan of the feel at impact. Nevertheless, our team rated it highly and gave it the thumbs-up.

This was a real surprise package for our testers but there is no doubt it is thoroughly deserving of a place at the business end of the test. It gets a big tick in terms of price as well. Good VFM.

THe VeRDICT

THe VeRDICT

Looks: 3.6 Tee: 4.4 Fairway: 4.5 Forgiveness: 4.6 Distance: 4.5 Dispersion: 4.4 RATING:★★★★★

Looks: 4.5 Tee: 4.4 Fairway: 4.3 Forgiveness: 4.3 Distance: 4.4 Dispersion: 4.6 RATING:★★★★★

Golf AsiA

w 37

gearguide

G FOrCE!

Ping’s G15 presses all the right buttons with our testing team

GOLD AWARD LOvELY SOLID FEEL Our trio of amateur testers and our solitary professional loved the feel of the G15 fairway wood, and it's worth knowing that the likes of Angel Cabrera, Bubba Watson and Jeff Maggert all use them too.

ELONGATED HEAD The G10 fairway wood was a sensational product, but the longer head design of the G15 does give the new model a certain edge. The MOI is higher in the club, which means a more consistent ball strike.

SOFT LANDING Good golfers are often looking for a piercing ball flight, but it's important for many that if they hit fairway woods into a green then the ball will stop. The low CG of the G15 means a strong, soaring trajectory.

38

wGolf AsiA

PING G15

TeRRIFIC ALL-ROUNDeR BAGS ANOTHeR GOLD AWARD Lofts available: 15.5°, 17°, 18.5°, 21.5° Web: www.ping.com Ping’s G-range keeps going from strength to strength and bagging TG award after award. But then it’s no surprise if they keep producing clubs like this. To a man, each of our four testers were impressed by the G15’s playability, forgiveness and power.

In fact the G15 scored highly in every single category on test, meaning it ticks the versatility box as well as proving itself a more than worthy club for any level of golfer.

Pro James said the G15 was the most consistent club on test in his hands and insisted he would be happy hitting it from a multitude of lies. He loved the shallow head for nipping the ball off the fairway but said that didn’t put him off in the slightest from the tee because he still enjoyed a great ball flight and superb distance. The one real stand-out statistic from his shots was the dispersion rate. With a consistency score of just 3.3 yards between his shots he simply couldn’t miss with the top-notch Ping.

INSIDE THE WINNER We FIND OUT WHy IT'S SO GOOD

It’s never an easy thing improving on a product which is already revered among professional and amateur golfers alike and there is no doubting Ping’s G10 range was very good indeed. In fact, the G10 fairway wood bagged a gold award in this same test two years ago.

But that only served to inspire the engineers at Ping and they set about designing a new G15 fairway wood that was longer, more forgiving and more versatile than its predecessor. { D E TA I L S } WHy THe LONG HeAD? Biggest noticeable difference between the G10 and the G15 is the elongated, low-profile head in the newer model. It is longer and shallower than before, giving a drastically improved Moment

of Inertia (MOI) – 23 per cent more than the G10 – which makes the club more stable through impact and minimises the effect of off-centre strikes, both in terms of distance and

David was equally complimentary, awarding the G15 top marks in everything except looks – where he deducted half a point because the head is ever so slightly bigger than the i15! In performance terms this was definitely a winner for David because not only was it his longest on test, he enjoyed a consistency of dispersion of just 6.9 yards – an excellent rating for someone of his ability.

Stuart also admitted preferring the i15 in terms of looks but said the G15 was a stand-out performer when it came to results. He is always looking to bring his ball flight down with modern-day woods and the G15 was no exception, but he said he felt able to control the ball flight better with the G15 compared to most of the other clubs on test so this was a major benefit to him.

Roger’s comments virtually mirrored every other tester when he said he felt super-confident picking balls off a tight lie from the fairway with this club. And although he felt he lost a little bit of distance, superb feel and balance meant he was more than happy with this compromise.

A stunning all-round performance from the G15 and a worthy winner of Best on Test award.

THe VeRDICT

Looks 4.5 Tee: 4.5 Fairway: 4.6 Forgiveness: 4.5 Distance: 4.1 Dispersion: 4.4 RATING: ★★★★★

The trick, however, would be doing so without drastically changing the simplistic and traditional styling which had become one of the hallmarks of the popular G-range of woods.

The results of our test indicates that Ping have succeeded in improving on the G10 because the G15 was top of the tree – and by some considerable distance.

Here we look at the technology responsible for this improvement and why it works so well…

IMPROvEMENT It must have been hard to improve on the G10, but the Ping team seems to have done so.

{ D E TA I L S } A W e I G H T y A F FA I R If you’ve read about golf club design over the last few years you’ll know the centre of gravity (CG) is vitally important in determining the launch angle of the ball as it leaves the clubface. essentially, the lower and further back the CG is the higher the ball will launch. Ping’s engineers spent a lot of time working on how to move weight around in the head without compromising structural integrity.

The result is an external sole weight pad in the rear of the club which moves weight further back for those high, soaring approach shots to par-5 greens.

dispersion. This is a bonus off both tee and fairway, while the shallow face can also increase confidence off the fairway with golfers finding it easier to 'pickup' off tight lies.

PAD IT OUT The weight pad in the sole of the club makes it easier for golfers to achieve a high ball flight.

Golf AsiA

w 39

gearguide

FaIrWaY WOODS: hOW DID ThEY MEaSUrE UP? BeNROSS VX PROTO

BeN SAyeRS RS21

CALLAWAy FTiZ

MD SUPeRSTRONG

NIKe SQ MACHSPeeD

CLeVeLAND LAUNCHeR DST

DAVID STUART JAMeS

DISTANCe

194

194

194

179

191

187

193

DISPeRSION

7.7

24.1

11.3

14.2

8.5

8.3

14.6

DISTANCe

207

215

214

211

213

212

211

DISPeRSION

18.7

12.2

9.2

12.1

16.2

10.2

13.3

DISTANCe

230

233

221

246

245

232

227

DISPeRSION

18.6

13.5

12.8

6.2

7.2

15.9

8.7

DISTANCe

142

125

141

138

128

134

140

DISPeRSION

9.8

10.0

6.8

10.6

7.4

8.8

14.6

ADAMS SPeeDLINe FAST 10

PING i15

NIKe VR STR8-FIT TOUR

SRIXON Z-TX

MIZUNO MX-700

TAyLORMADe R9 Ti

TAyLORMADe BURNeR SUPeRFAST

194

189

197

198

199

200

198

3.5

12.1

4.4

6.4

7.6

8.5

11.2

215

213

210

226

213

225

219

11.2

15.8

10.3

14.2

15.2

14.8

8.4

230

232

237

227

237

224

236

8.7

13.8

15.0

25.1

16.7

14.5

4.5

139

132

124

137

140

142

139

13.1

8.9

5.2

8.5

5.2

8.3

4.0

ROGeR

DAVID STUART JAMeS

RAM SDXII

ROGeR

THe CLUBS

THE BEST PERFORMERS ON TEST… ACCORDING TO OUR PANEL JAMeS’ BeST FOR…

DISTANCE: 1. Tour edge exotics XCG3 (202 yds) 2. TaylorMade R9 Ti (200 yds) PRO 3. Mizuno MX-700 (199 yds) 4. Callaway Diablo edge (199 yds) DISPERSION: 1. Nicklaus ML 3X3 (3.0 yds) 2. Ping G15 (3.3 yds) 3. Callaway Diablo edge (3.4 yds) 4. Adams Speedline FAST 10 (3.5 yds) 5. Nike VR (4.4 yds)

40

wGolf AsiA

STUART’S BeST FOR...

DISTANCe: 1. Srixon Z-TX (226 yds) 2. TaylorMade R9 Ti (225 yds) 4 HCP 3. Nicklaus ML 3X3 (221 yds) 4. Callaway Diablo edge (219 yds) 5. TaylorMade Burner Superfast (219 yds) DISPERSION: 1. Benross VX Proto PVD (1.2 yds) 2. Nicklaus ML 3X3 (3.7 yds) 3. TaylorMade Burner Superfast (8.4 yds)

Here we detail the average distance and consistency of dispersion for all the woods on test. How does yours stack up?

CONCLUSION CHooSING THE rIGHT Wood IS TrICky. HErE’S WHAT WE fouNd ouT… Decide where you want it to work

MD SeVe ICON

TOUR eDGe eXOTICS XCG3

MIZUNO MP

WILSON FyBRID HS

BeNROSS VX PROTO PVD

193

202

198

193

196

9.5

7.2

13.9

14.0

8.6

212

216

218

211

216

11.9

9.6

13.4

14.3

1.2

224

228

239

225

230

5.1

13.4

11.5

12.2

9.0

138

145

132

134

136

9.3

11.1

8.4

7.8

8.2

yONeX NANOSPeeD 3I

CALLAWAy DIABLO eDGe

NICKLAUS ML 3X3

PING G15

197

199

195

195

7.9

3.4

3.0

3.3

218

219

221

215

12.2

12.3

3.7

12.4

238

234

232

248

11.3

12.7

8.5

6.9

141

146

133

122

9.9

9.0

11.9

10.1

DAVID’S BeST FOR...

DISTANCE: 1. Ping G15 (248 yds) 2. Callaway FTiZ (246 yds) 10 HCP 3. MD Superstrong (245 yds) 4. Mizuno MP (239 yds) 5. yonex Nanospeed 3i (238 yds) DISPERSION: 1. TaylorMade Burner Superfast (4.5 yds) 2. MD Seve (5.1 yds) 3. Callaway FTiZ (6.2 yds) 4. Ping G15 (6.9 yds)

ROGeR’S BeST FOR...

DISTANCE: 1. Callaway Diablo edge (146 yds) 2. Tour edge exotics XCG3 (145 yds) 19 HCP 3. TaylorMade R9 (142 yds) 4. Ram SDX II (142 yds) 5. Ben Sayers RS21 (141 yds) DISPERSION: 1. TaylorMade Burner Superfast (4.0 yds) 2. Palm Springs 2eZ (4.3 yds) 3= Nike VR (5.2 yds) 3= Mizuno MX-700 (5.2 yds) 5. Ben Sayers RS 21 (6.8 yds)

Some fairway woods performed well off the tee while some were better from the fairway. Before buying decide where you are more likely to use a fairway wood from and then make your choice accordingly. Clubs with deeper faces are often more suited to being used as driver replacements off the tee, while shallower faces can make it easier to nip the ball off tight lies. The layout of your home course should also be a factor.

Are there a couple of par-5 holes that could be reachable with the right fairway wood?

Better-player options

Like drivers and irons in recent years, we are seeing more and more fairway woods aimed at the better player. Clubs like the Ping i15, Mizuno MP and Nike VR are designed with the centre of gravity slightly higher and towards the clubface for a more penetrating trajectory. The heads tend to be smaller and more compact, too, while the face is often set slightly open. Game improvers should be well aware of these as well because in the wrong hands these can be difficult to use.

Price point options

We will very often see the more established names rising to the top of the tests and there’s no doubt you get what you pay for, with the likes of Ping, TaylorMade and Callaway. However, brands like yonex and Nicklaus have bagged deserved awards while you can also pick up excellent cheaper options like the MD Superstrong and Benross VX Proto. The bottom line is don’t discount anything because of the logo it has on the head. Try them all and pick one that works for you.

Custom-fitting works

Fairway woods are one of the harder clubs in the bag to hit, so why make it harder by choosing one that may not be suited for you? Many manufacturers offer fairway woods from strong 13° 3-woods to 21° 7-woods. If you add different shafts and different flexes then the possibilities are endless. Only an experienced custom-fitter can pick one that’s right for you.

Golf AsiA

w 41

gearguide

tou r van in a hosel T

he revolutionary new Titleist 910D2 and 910D3 drivers feature the fastest, most stable head designs Titleist has ever created, as well as the new SureFit Tour (SFT) dual-angle hosel. SFT is a new and patented technology that allows the loft and lie to be independently adjusted and set.

“The new 910 drivers provide improvements in flight, fit, looks, feel and sound, and provide a new level of precision fitting to deliver total performance and driving confidence,” said Steve Pelisek, General Manager, Titleist Golf Clubs.

“Together, these advances put the Titleist 910 drivers in a class of their own, both on Tour and in the marketplace.”

“The new 910D2 and 910D3 are not only the highest performing drivers in the history of the Titleist golf club franchise, but represent a true competitive advantage in driver performance and fitting,” said Dan Stone, Vice President of Research and Development, Titleist Golf Clubs. “The ability to independently adjust loft and lie allows ball flight to be optimized both high and low, and for more fade or draw.”

Titleist 910 drivers are available in two models that provide distinct levels of forgiveness and shot control. The 910D2 features a 460cc full-pear shaped head

42

wGolf AsiA

designed for maximum playability and forgiveness, promoting a straighter ball flight with higher launch and low-to-mid spin. The 910D3 features a 445cc classic-pear shaped head design that produces a boring flight.

The 910D3 also promotes a straighter ball flight with low spin, and provides increased workability favoured by many tour players.

Both the 910D2 and 910D3 utilise Titleist’s new SureFit Tour dual-angle hosel, a breakthrough in fitting technology inspired by the bending of metal woods on Tour to achieve more precise ball flight through the adjustment of loft and lie angle.

SureFit Tour Technology The SFT hosel features a sleeve and a ring, each with four settings. The sleeve settings are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4 and the ring settings are lettered A, B, C, D. This results in a matrix of 16 unique loft/lie combinations that allows the fitter or golfer to make left or right flight improvements (mostly via lie adjustment), and launch and spin improvements (mostly via loft adjustments). The combination and interaction of the ring and sleeve provides the “dual angle” technology that makes independent loft and lie adjustability possible. Current competitive adjustable hosel drivers feature only a single angle for

dependent adjustability, meaning, every time the setting is changed, it alters both the loft and lie, which limits the ability to optimise ball flight.

“We describe SureFit Tour technology as a ‘Tour Van-in-a-hosel,’ because the dual-angle hosel technology in combination with the interchangeable shaft and rear bezel weight provides a fitter with all the power of a tour van right at the point of fitting,” said Pelisek.

“We can adjust loft and lie, as well as change the shaft and weight of the driver right on the tee.”

“Previous to the new 910, our fitters on Tour would have to run back and forth to the Tour Van when we needed to adjust the loft and lie of a driver, change a shaft or build an entirely new club,” adds Stone. “Not anymore.

Whereas it would take anywhere from several hours to a full day to fit and build new drivers for a player, with the 910 high performance heads and SFT technology we can now fit them in 30 minutes and they walk off the range with a more precisely fit driver.”

910 Driver Design & Technology Optimised Face Insert - Both the 910D2 and 910D3 drivers feature a variable thickness face insert with a thick central portion that is equidistant from all points around the face perimeter. This refinement

provides for a substantially larger maximum ball speed area and an improved launch/ spin face map gradient that yields increased distance potential. Compared to Titleist’s previous-generation 909 drivers, the 910D2 has a 15% larger maximum ball speed area.

The 909D3 realizes a 10% larger maximum ball speed area.

Thin Crown - The 910 features a chemically milled, 17% thinner crown, allowing more discretionary mass to be relocated low and deep where it contributes to the club’s outstanding stability.

Lower Rear Crown Profile - The rear portion of the 910’s crown has been redesigned, sloping lower than the crown of its 909 predecessor. This change pushes the CG lower and deeper.

Rear Bezel Weight - Coupled with the thinner crown and lower crown profile, the relocation of the proprietary bezel weight lower and deeper into the chassis of the 910 head, and on-axis with relation to the centre of the clubface, optimizes the CG location for increased speed and stability.

Acoustically engineered - Sound is a crucial component of feel and the 910 drivers have been acoustically tuned to improve feel and produce a hotter, more solid sound off the clubface that tour players have described as “lively.”

Precision Manufacturing - With the design of precision fixtures and improved manufacturing processes, 910 drivers are produced with unequalled visual and mechanical consistency. In fact, the loft and lie production tolerances set for 910 drivers are twice as tight as industry norms.

Clack PVD Finish - The performance advancements of the 910 driver are complemented by the club’s striking black PVD paint finish. White scorelines provide an attractive set-up appearance that breeds confidence.

Popular Stock Shafts - The 910’s high performance stock shaft for Asia include Fujikura Motore F3 with three different weight and bend profiles to fit a broad range of players. All of these shafts feature High Inertia Tip (H.I.T.) technology. Rounding out the line-up of stock shafts are the tourproven Aldila RIP and Project X Tour Issue graphite shafts. In addition, there are more than 80 different shafts available in the Titleist custom shaft matrix.

910D2 Specs • Head volume: 460cc (slightly higher launch and spin versus 910D3) • Lofts: 8.5, 9.5, 10.5 • Stock grip: Titleist Tour Velvet 360º rubber

Stock Shafts • Fujikura Motore F3 70

• Fujikura Motore F3 60 • Fujikura Motore F3 55 • Aldila RIP 60 • Project X Tour Issue Graphite

910D3 Specs • Head volume: 445cc (slightly lower launch and spin versus 910D2) • Lofts: 8.5, 9.5, 10.5 • Stock grip: Titleist Tour Velvet 360º rubber

Stock Shafts • Fujikura Motore F3 70 • Fujikura Motore F3 60 • Aldila RIP 60 • Project X Tour Issue Graphite The new 910D2 and 910D3 drivers will begin shipping to golf shops mid-November 2010. For more information about the family of Titleist 910 drivers, shaft matrices and performance comparisons, please visit the Titleist 910 Drivers page at titleist.com.sg or titleist.com.my.

Chris McGinley, vice president of golf club marketing provides some more insight into the design of the new Titleist 910 family, tour-player response, features and benefits among other topics.

1. What were the overall goals Titleist wanted to achieve with the design and construction of the 910 Metals?

Golf AsiA

w 43

gearguide Our goal is to always improve the overall product performance versus the prior generation and for 910 we specifically wanted to add our SureFit Tour (SFT) hosel technology to be able to more precisely fit golfers for metal woods.

With the new 910 drivers we wanted to improve speed and stability. Speed provides greater distance potential and stability improves shot control and essentially that is what golfers want from a driver, distance and shot control. We improved speed through a new fast face insert design and stability through weight distribution improvements made to the crown and rear bezel weight. In combination with our new SFT technology we have created our best performing driver heads with an ability to fit them more precisely.

2. What do Titleist’s tour players think about 910?

The tour acceptance speaks for itself. We have over 100 players worldwide using the new 910 driver and have achieved eight wins on the major professional tours since July.

3. Why do you think 910 - the driver in particular - has been picked up so quickly on tour?

It is the combination of the performance of the head and the ability to better-fit players through our SureFit Tour hosel technology. We call SFT “tour-van-in-a-hosel” because the technology was inspired by the bending, shafting and weighting of metals that used to occur only within our tour vans. With SFT we now have the power of a tour van on the tee right at the point of fitting. It’s faster and more effective and players walk away with a better golf club.

4. What are the performance differences between the D2 and D3 driver models?

What kind of player will be best suited to which club?

The base performance differences of the 910D2 and D3 are similar to prior models. D2 is larger at 460cc and offers more forgiveness. D3 is smaller with a deep face at 445c and offers additional shot and trajectory control. With the powerful adjustability offered by SFT we don’t really characterize one club as being better suited for a certain player type. The best way to find the best one for you is to be custom fit.

5. What’s the reason behind the decision not to release a ‘DComp’ version this time

44

wGolf AsiA

around?

The 909DComp driver used a composite crown designed to move weight lower and deeper thus improving the CG location. The new 910 drivers use ultra-thin casting technology to create a thinner titanium crown, which accomplishes the same thing in a more efficient single material construction.

6. What was the thinking behind the F and Fd fairways and what are the differences between them?

The new 910 fairway line comes out of direct feedback from the tour and our serious golfer target audience. Some players want/need a versatile, all around fairway metal that performs well in a variety of different lie and turf conditions. The new 910F is just such a club and is our best performing fairway metal to date. Some players hit their fairway metal more from the tee than the turf which led directly to the design of the Fd. The new 910 Fd with its larger, deeper face provides enhanced performance turf, whichity from the tee, but also works off the deck.

7. As always aesthetics have been a top priority, how has Titleist been able to design such high-performing clubs without jeopardizing the look?

Our audience demands overall performance including ball flight, looks, feel and sound. We pay attention to each of these areas with every club we design.

8. Why has it taken until now for Titleist to become involved in adjustable face/ hosel technology? Why is its entry into the market different from other brands?

Our SureFit Tour hosel technology comes directly from improving the fitting processes a player goes through when being fit for a metal. We studied these processes and how they were being done on tour first - bending, shafting and weighting - and made them more efficient and precise. Being first to market does not mean being better. We developed a truly better system and are now bringing it to market.

9. How does the SureFit Tour system work?

SureFit Tour uses what we call dual angle technology, which allows loft, and lie to be independently adjusted and set to optimize performance and ball flight. We can enhance

or correct left-to-right ball flight and enhance or correct launch and spin to provide the best trajectory. The ability to do these things independently is our competitive advantage.

The SFT system features a hosel sleeve with four settings and a specially designed ring with four settings. The combination of these two angled components produces four lie angle and four loft angle settings for a matrix of 16 unique loft and lie combinations.

10. How does SFT make it easier for serious golfers and pros to get clubs that are custom fit for them? How will it make a difference on tour?

SFT brings a new level of precision to metals fitting. The system is intuitive and easy to use once properly educated. A trained fitter can find the setting that truly optimizes ball flight.

Our tour players have commented that finding that setting gives them more confidence and our tour counts and early performance success validates that the system works.

11. How will people know which setting is the best for them, for example, if their swing should change?

We strongly recommend working with a trained fitter to find your best SFT hosel setting. The power of the SFT system is that it allows for very precise changes with the option to return to the standard setting or the initial fit setting. If a player is working on swing changes they can always go back to a trained fitter post their initial fit to try different settings under the watchful eye of an expert.

12. What kind of potential does the SureFit Tour system have for helping people customize their metals and can you give us any hints as to where the system might take us next?

SFT takes metals fitting to a new level. Our goal and promise is to continue to make the system more robust and effective to help serious golfers play better.

13. What can we next look forward to from Titleist?

The tagline for the new 910 metals is “Total Performance, Precision Fit”. You can expect to continue to see metals and iron products that deliver on that message.

Grip it riGht S ensosolutions, a German-based company specialising in the development of innovative IT systems for sports analysis, motion, and performance measurement, have developed SensoGlove, the world’s first golf glove with built-in digital sensors that continuously read the user’s grip pressure to ensure a consistently accurate, smooth and powerful golf swing.

SensoGlove’s small and removable sweat-proof 1.2-inch LED digital monitor analyzes the pressure of the swing through highly responsive sensors placed throughout the glove. Just swing the golf club to receive real-time audio and visual feedback at 80 times per second by the small and highly responsive sensors warning you if you exceed your target level of grip pressure. The patented SensoGlove even shows you which fingers are gripping too tightly, so you can adjust your grip accordingly.

Most beginners grip the golf club too tightly causing a bad swing and even injury. With SensoGlove, all golfers, from beginner to advanced, can quickly learn how to hold the club, avoiding bad habits and improving every part of their game, from backswing, downswing, impact, follow-through, to driving, putting, and chipping.

“Every golfer wants to hit the ball far and the natural instinct is to swing harder and faster,” said David Bauer, President of SensoSolutions. “But trying to swing with more power causes a death grip, creating tension in the hands, wrists, arms and shoulders. The result is a less than smooth swing and, even worse, tightened muscles. Tight muscles result in slower, not faster, club head speed.”

Emphasized by golf instructors throughout the world, grip pressure is a very important skill for all golfers to learn. To use SensoGlove, golfers should first try it in the driving range to test various pressure settings until they find one that gives them the perfect swing. The grip pressure settings can be stored in SensoGlove’s memory to use throughout the swing, allowing you to exert just the right amount of pressure for a natural, effortless swing. During practice, golfers can set the monitor to low to high sensitivity from 1-18.

The highest settings (13-18) are the most sensitive and encourage a very light grip pressure, particularly useful when chipping and putting. The lowest settings (1-12) are less sensitive and are designed to help golfers develop a lighter grip.

SensoGlove is available immediately online at: shop.sensoglove.com. For both men and women in right or left hand configurations, sizes small to x-large, priced at US$89 (replacement gloves are available for US$25).

Golf AsiA

w 45

gearguide

the new black N

ike has unleashed the follow-up to the successful SQ Machspeed driver in the form of the new SQ Machspeed Black.

Engineers have seized on the aerodynamic properties of the previous model and strived to make this year’s successor even more efficient through the swing, which should give higher ball speed and greater distance. In terms of looks, the innovatively designed Machspeed Black features a stunning black head that not only looks sensational at address but also allows air to move quickly and cleanly on each swing.

You may be thinking that this sounds remarkably similar to last year’s offering, but there are several key differences.

For a start, the deeper face allows for the delivery of greater ball speed across the entire face which results in more forgiveness and greater performance on off-centre strikes.

The tall nature of the clubface and the fact that it tapers quickly means there is more forgiveness too. This year’s Machspeed Black also offers a slightly different ball flight – the low spinning nature of the driver helps to generate greater distance. It also features Nike’s STR8-FIT technology which gives golfers the option of eight different face angle positions, ranging from 2˚ closed through to 2˚ open. So whether you’re a slicer looking to find the fairway more regularly or you’re a better player looking to whip the hands through for a little extra distance, the Machspeed Black can be set up to suit.

And while many manufacturers have ditched the idea of square-headed drivers in favour of more-conventional shapes, Nike has stuck to their guns. In addition to the workable round-headed model they will also launch a square one which will offer even more forgiveness on off-centre hits.

46

wGolf AsiA

Making An Impact The tapered design of the clubhead allows air to travel over it quickly and efficiently. Throughout the swing, the air moves closely over and around the head to maximise speed.

Top Benefits The clubhead is now in the classic position at the top of the swing, but unlike other drivers the Machspeed Black is still reaping the benefits of advanced aerodynamics.

Downswing Speed Nike’s talented engineers have worked extremely hard on reducing drag through the downswing which allows the club to reach its maximum possible speed.

Nike Athlete Lucas Glover responded favourably after testing the new Machspeed Black, “It feels like it explodes off of the face,” said Glover.

Available in round and square shape, the Machspeed Black drivers offer Nike’s STR8 FIT technology, which delivers eight face angle options, two degrees open and two degrees closed. The square version promotes forgiveness and stability. The round version is for golfers who desire more workability and shot shaping. Both drivers come with Mitsubishi Rayon’s lightweight Fubuki shafts for maximum swing speed. The new drivers are in stores now.

Golf AsiA

p42-55 GearGuide.indd 47

w 47 11/22/10 4:42 PM

gearguide

burninG Distance T

aylorMade Golf’s two new golf ball models, the next-generation Burner and the all-new Burner Tour, are both designed to deliver maximum distance and exceptional feel to a broad range of players.

The latest evolution of the Burner ball succeeds in promoting legendary distance through a high launch and longer carry, the Burner Tour’s low-compression core equates to softer feel, increased spin and more control.

“When we designed the Burner and Burner Tour, we developed core formulations that promote maximum velocity, which translates to maximum distance,” said Dean Snell, senior director of golf ball research and development. “To achieve a significant improvement in greenside spin and performance in Burner Tour, we’ve employed the softest and thinnest two-piece cover of any TaylorMade ball. With the new Burner, the goal was to limit driver-spin and

48

wGolf AsiA

promote maximum carry, which could only be accomplished with a firmer cover and a slightly higher compression.”

REACT Core Both the Burner and Burner Tour golf balls incorporate TaylorMade’s patented REACT Core designed to promote exceptionally fastball speed while maintaining soft performance. The Burner Tour is equipped with the highest diameter and the lowest core compression (57) of any TaylorMade ball, promotes increased spin and more control. The Burner has a high-energy, lowcompression (60) core that works in unison with the ball’s firmer cover to promote higher launch, longer carry and more distance.

LDP Dimple Technology TaylorMade’s Low-Drag Performance (LDP) aerodynamics has been incorporated

into the Burner and Burner Tour to deliver improved lift for more carry and distance.

Burner features a new, more premium dimple pattern that promotes a lower, piercing trajectory, while Burner Tour’s dimple pattern encourages Tour distance.

Durable Iothane Covers Although Burner and Burner Tour are built with slightly different cover properties, the Burner employs an Iothane 58D cover while the Burner Tour employs an Iothane 60D cover; both are exceptionally soft and resilient. Both Iothane covers offer outstanding durability and shear-resistance.

The new Burner and Burner Tour golf balls are available now at all authorised dealers and retail outlets.

in a ball

Golf AsiA

w 49

gearguide

ForGet You’re wearinG shoes N

ike Golf ‘s new Lunar Control golf shoe features a familiar saddle design fused with innovative materials and construction technologies found in Nike running shoes, Lunarlon Foam and Nike Flywire.

Developed in the Nike Sports Research Lab, Lunarlon Foam is extremely light and responsive thus allowing golfers the freedom to focus on their game, and forget about what’s on their feet, a Nike Golf obsession. The Lunarlon Foam is encased within a supportive Phylon carrier in the midsole. The dual-density foam is both durable and highly responsive, providing a unique blend of ultraplush cushioning and optimal support.

Also featured is the lightweight stability layer, achieved through Nike Flywire technology. An ultra-strong yet ultra-lightweight construction of hightensile fibres combined with a TPU overlay to provide a dynamic and supportive fit in the midfoot that won’t stretch out over time.

Nike Golf collaborated with Nike athlete and Tour professional Paul Casey, who provided key insights into developing this stable, comfortable and lightweight shoe. At the recent WGC-HSBC Champions, five Nike Golf athletes, including Paul Casey, Anthony Kim, Carl Pettersson, Charl Schwartzel and event winner Francesco Molinari all debuted the new Lunar Control golf shoe.

The Lunar Control has a waterproof, leather upper that is reinforced by an additional waterproof surface treatment. Nike’s second-generation Power Platform outsole incorporates an additional second channel in the outsole to allow for greater natural motion and smoother weight transfer for more power through impact with every swing. The Nike Lunar Control will be available at retail from January 1, 2011.

Key Features: • Waterproof premium leather upper • Flywire midfoot saddle • Lunarlon cushioning in heel • Nike Power Platform • 1 year Waterproof Warranty

50

wGolf AsiA

FJ DrY JoYs tour F

ollowing several years of development driven by player insight, FootJoy’s new DryJoys Tour deliver the comfort, flexibility and waterproof performance that players at all levels have come to expect while integrating dramatically enhanced Tourcalibre stability features.

The new DryJoys Tour golf shoes have been engineered to exceed the demands of the world’s top professionals. Featuring next generation Tri-Density TPU Stability PODS outsole, DryJoys Tour shoes provide the stability and performance required to compete on the tour’s most demanding courses. Blended seamlessly with traditional upper styling crafted from the finest premium leathers, this new category surpasses the expectations of even the most discernible tour players.

Multiple winner on the PGA Tour Steve Stricker notes, “With the new DryJoys Tour, you immediately notice the improved

stability and connection with the ground.

It’s a significant improvement and one that will benefit performance. Equally important, the overall comfort is outstanding. It’s an allaround great product and has been my ‘go-to shoe’ since I first received them.”

Features • Upper Technology • ECL Leather Uppers - Soft, breathable, waterproof Extreme Comfort Leather.

• One-year Limited waterproof warranty.

In-Shoe Technology • Full Leather Linings - Comfortable, slipresistant, waterproof.

• Comfort Plus PU Fit-Bed - Soft and durable underfoot cushioning.

• Laser Plus Last.

Outsole Technology • New TPU integrated EVA midsole: Provides increased stability throughout the golf swing.

• Next generation Tri-Density TPU Stability PODS outsole - Ensures maximum ground contact.

• Fibreglass composite support bridge - Provides tremendous mid-foot stability and support.

• Maximum OptiFlex zones - Soft TPU for superior flexibility, better ground contact throughout the swing and comfort throughout the round.

• New Cyclone cleats by Softspikes - Greenfriendly traction.

The new DryJoys Tour will be available from mid-December 2010 and will retail for S$275.00 in Singapore and RM 675.00 in Malaysia.

Golf AsiA

w 51

gearguide

limiteD eDition zl Driver

“Advanced Technology Driver Now Features Unique Cosmetics and Fujikura Motore Speeder Shaft”

T

he Limited Edition ZL Driver utilises advanced multimaterial construction and Adjustable Flight Technology and is paired with a high performance Fujikura Motore Speeder shaft. This exclusive product is ideal for the accomplished player who wants a collectible driver with Tour-calibre performance. Only 500 of these Limited Edition ZL Drivers are available globally, and each is individually marked with a production serial number.

“The Limited Edition ZL Driver is a distinct offering for our loyal customers,” says Brian Zender, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cobra-Puma Golf. “The ZL Driver is regarded as one of the highest performing drivers in the market. The Limited Edition ZL demonstrates the unique attitude of the Cobra brand, and our focus on superior performance and innovative design.”

The new driver made its Tour debut, as Cobra Golf staffer Ian Poulter - who plays the ZL Driver on the PGA Tour - teed up the all-white ZL Driver at the World Golf ChampionshipsHSBC Champions event in Shanghai.

“It’s been a year since my first win with my Cobra ZL Driver, and what a better way to celebrate it than with this Limited Edition model,” says Poulter. “I like the visual of the new white ZL, it’s really very cool. It’s unique and different than any driver I’ve seen - plus its performance is great, too.

It has the identical performance of the driver that I’ve won with twice.”

The custom all-white, 46” Fujikura Motore Speeder VC 6.0 shaft is an upgrade and it offers superior overall feel and stabilization for unparalleled distance and accuracy, and also features exclusive custom laser-etched graphics.

The white grip is a Golf Pride Tour Wrap 2G model. It’s a one-piece, simulated wrap with enhanced tackiness.

Incredibly soft, it combines the look and feel of premium leather with the durability and performance of high-tack rubber.

As with the original ZL Driver, the Limited Edition ZL Driver features an optimised, traditional clubhead shape that maximizes distance, accuracy and forgiveness. Its multi-material construction includes the lightweight carbon fibre crown and sole, complemented by a 6-4 titanium clubhead body and clubface contributing to higher ball

52

wGolf AsiA

speeds and maximum distance. The clubface utilizes Cobra’s patented 9 Point Face Technology, bolstered by a milled rhombus, laser-welded face insert plus a thin titanium perimeter.

In addition, Cobra’s exclusive Adjustable Flight Technology features an adjustable hosel that golfers can quickly and easily set to one of three face angles (O-open, N-neutral, C-closed), to optimize ball flight and distance.

Features 9 Point Face Technology A milled rhombus face insert, surrounded by a thin titanium perimeter, creates nine points across a massive Sweet Zone that generate increased ball speed, even on off-centre hits.

Advanced Multi-Material Construction The carbon fibre crown and sole, titanium 6-4 body and face, along with the swing weight screw, provide optimal CG, MOI and spin characteristics for high launch, increased distance and control.

Adjustable Flight Technology (AFT) Three face angle settings (open, neutral and closed) are easy to set, and allow golfers to find the one setting that optimizes their ball flight for maximum distance and accuracy.

The Cobra Limited Edition ZL Driver is available in lofts of 9.5º and 10.5º, in men’s right-handed with Fujikura Motore Speeder VC 6.0 stiff flex shaft. Participating retailers will be listed at www. cobragolf.com.sg.

Golf AsiA

w 53

gearguide

hiGh octane wooDs

T

wenty years after revolutionizing the driver market with the original Big Bertha Driver, Callaway’s Diablo Octane Drivers introduce another innovative breakthrough in the form of a new material called Forged Composite - the lightest, strongest, most precise material the company has ever used.

The performance characteristics of Forged Composite, a material developed in conjunction with Research and Development partner Automobili Lamborghini, has allowed Callaway engineers to develop an advanced clubhead with a greater transfer of power at impact and more accurate trajectories versus its all-titanium counterparts.

“Applying Forged Composite in tandem with a proprietary isothermal forging process has generated a measurable performance

advantage over the metal alloys generally used to manufacture golf clubs,” said Dr. Alan Hocknell, Sr. Vice President, Research and Development, Callaway Golf. “The Diablo Octane Drivers are configured to deliver unmatched power and precision through superior design, construction and advanced materials.”

Diablo Octane Driver Employing Forged Composite in the crown of the Diablo Octane Driver has allowed Callaway engineers to precisely set the club head’s Centre of Gravity (CG) and Moment of Inertia (MOI) in order to promote accurate trajectories. This lighter, more efficient clubhead is then paired with a longer shaft to increase head speed and power at impact for longer distances. Additionally, Diablo Octane Drivers include Callaway’s proprietary Hyperbolic Face Technology, which utilises a chemical milling process to provide a larger sweet spot and improved impact efficiency. Overall, Callaway’s Diablo Octane powers drives beyond those of its all-titanium predecessor by an average distance of eight yards.

Diablo Octane Tour Diablo Octane Tour models feature a slightly smaller head

54

wGolf AsiA

size than standard models, a full hosel, and the more open look at address preferred by skilled players. Diablo Octane Drivers come with a Project X Graphite Shaft that is 46 inches in the standard model and 45.5 inches in the Tour model.

Fairway Woods Building on Callaway’s heritage of innovation, the Diablo Octane and Diablo Octane Tour Fairway Woods are engineered to maximize power. The standard models feature a larger footprint and are designed with a deep CG for better playability and higher trajectories. The Tour models are designed with a smaller profile and a traditional hosel, and deliver increased workability with low, penetrating trajectories that are preferred by more accomplished players. Diablo Octane Fairway Woods feature aggressive Variable Face Technology that increases the size of each club’s sweet spot and generates highball speeds for better distance.

Forged Composite

It is the lightest, strongest, most precise material Callaway has ever employed. Encompassing more than 500,000 intertwined turbostratic fibres per square inch; this revolutionary material features an incredibly high threshold for withstanding extreme forces. Forged Composite is one-third the density of titanium, yet features a greater load carrying capacity per unit mass in bending. The implementation of a new, proprietary isothermal forging process enables Callaway and Lamborghini engineers to incorporate Forged Composite into their designs with a level of precision that was previously unachievable.

On September 30, 2010, Callaway Golf and Automobili Lamborghini announced an agreement to connect the resources of their world-renowned Research and Development teams. This unique alliance establishes an ongoing partnership to develop innovative technologies and materials such as Forged Composite, the first collaborative element of this union.

“Forged Composite provides us with the ability to engineer performance enhancements like never before, and we’ve only just begun to tap the potential of this material,” said Dr. Alan Hocknell, Sr. Vice President, Research and Development, Callaway Golf. “We’re

looking forward to collaborating on future applications that push our designs beyond any preconceptions.”

“The introduction of the Forged Composite technology allowed Lamborghini to realise the monocoque and the suspension arms of the “Sesto Elemento” with groundbreaking quality and costs levels,” said Maurizio Reggiani, Director Research and Development of Automobili Lamborghini. “Our next challenge is to make this technology a standard for low volume productions.”

The origins of this recently formalized relationship date back several years. Through the constant pursuit of lighter and stronger materials, the Lamborghini and Callaway Research and Development teams cultivated similar areas of expertise. A major point of convergence surrounded the development of advanced composite structures.

These highly developed materials comprised of microscopic carbon fibres feature remarkable strength and performance characteristics in comparison to the metal alloys that are generally used throughout the automotive and golf industries.

Golf AsiA

w 55

feature

GOLF: BANNED ON

SUNDAYS

The fiercely religious community of Stornoway, where the course remains empty on the Sabbath.

WORDS BY paul fORSYth 56

wGolf AsiA

T

he car park is all but empty, the shop is closed and if there are people out on the course, they are probably walking the dog. Stornoway Golf Club is not allowed to open for business on a Sunday.

T ADVERTISER In accordance with the terms of a 25-year 75 PENCE AND WEST COAS E GALL GUTH NAN INNS lease, members can take a stroll around 20, 2010 THURSDAY, MAY the 18 holes or even snowboard down the s?

ESTABLISHED 1917 for the Western Isle stminster be good 4066 XCI .

VOL Dem coalition at We l. ib steepest fairways – as some rather pointedly pol y/L k’s Tor a l wee Wil o.uk for this t poll result: tornowaygazette.c Last week’s interne No 57% Visit www.s 43% should did last winter – but God forbidYes they take a stick from their bag and use it to hit a little white ball.

The parkland course, home to the biggest sports club in the Outer Hebrides, is one of the final battlegrounds of a long and unedifying struggle on the island of Lewis. Two summers ago, the controversial Ullapool ferry undertook its first Sunday crossing, and some of the town’s pubs are now open seven days a week, but the fiercely-Presbyterian religious community disease. nsion), or heart (hyperte e, gastric quayside, addressing a small group of are refusing to yield on is obes being landlord’s board of trustees, the Golf Club ent is very patiwhat If the SON as a way of used

by MICHELLE ROB be can te.co.uk aygazet banding weight by michelle.robson@stornow lose to them protesters. As the gulls cried overhead, he described asts the last bastion. hopes for a change of heart, but it never that helping food of unt d amo ES residen coul controlling the WESTERN ISL ntially life saving can be eaten. d to been rumbling on for more pote failehas said: “We sorrow over the breaking of the the island’s private enterprises comes. is available on the be denied aWhile they E Caledonia“It ding re ban OUS whe tric HTH of in Gas LIG use funding week that they have procedure beca is dependent on quash rumours this s for a new factory plan a decade,” says Club Secretary, Ken law... and we grieve, oh Lord, that these have been able toNHS doificbutlargely as they please, than live. bypass areas. gastric abandoned their site spec and web son. d S Rob NH ban elle the tric Mich Gas ed in the Information on gastric band is in at Arnish, writes d with ns are not perform patients are pushing ahea“We’ve operatioits they once the say that but They es things are done.” community-run organisations have to Galloway. had votes, ballots, but ly the stat area rnal in nt investme NHS Western Isles to a weight loss place it can be adjusted exte by a plans for significant in y) at any time ity which will open as can be referred Marybank facil be (outside the bod mernot budging.” d canstill sum ban Passions run almost as high with the local objections.

The council they’re still the the at NHS Lothian. ns not mea surgeonconsider not the autumn, surgeon. This looser, Lothian will However NHS er tighter or originally hoped. edure on patients made eith the amount of food the the procits d as to whether the golf.

Lately, the struggle has centred on the closes £7m leisure centre on a Sunday, Defenders of the status quo are a questione perform n ing on Whe end in ent sh dep . pati Arni area rict the be built at outwith their own s three surgeon wants to rest new factory would ion being invested past three year £2.5mill In the eating. action. eAnd light of thevociferous d Isles have of ett, club’s request for a Sunday drinks licence despite the The fromlegal minority.

This, after all, is a part tern threat e Corb the ban Wes Mik t, the mak plan k from can yban ents pati in the Mar The surgeon ent, we such a surgeon. water (saline) LHC said: “At pres been referred to that tighter by adding salt new CEO of the which, not so long ago, they ns the mea tions on in this atten slows downpark that would encourage members to have Trust, owner of of the world This public g our mately d.the ssin UltiStornoway ban focu this the at are from ugh into site efit thro d ben pass our existing islanders who coul e to pay privately amount of food that can the patient refurbishment of gnise that we reco ning on the although so re may hav - mea lunch in the clubhouse. Two applications where thein the golf club sits, ban play loyal to the Sabbatarian principle of the procedu stomach Marybank,were region n at the To loosen issio er. cost perm long can ning for ch plan full whi for it we have rity is stays feeling water fluid Our immediate prio the d, some of the saltfood passes £7,000.

Arnish site. in were rejected by the Western Isles Licensing Lord’s Day. that they chained up the swings in children’s essing for NHS Western the ban proc oved, meaning A spokesperson to re-establish the digestive ensure we have Western Isles does is rem Hebrides and to to Isles said: “NHS contract with a through quicker to gastric band is 17180 round volumes Even now, there are some who a Board, leading Golf Club to decide that Every year, at their annual general playgrounds. any ly, year planned. theSGD t e eral isten hav Gen cons not mer as originally r for bariatric system. then tightened and not in the sum supply that plant.” ybank site, which mainland provide would have to be loose to start and less 2009, open in the autumn ng er will eati ity emb to facil Dec Mar k used 31 is ybanof washing as a g the ng the Sheriff Each case the club’s is endi Regardin an appeal to Court in Inverness meeting, members in favour regard the hanging out the The Mar n the patientvote nt surgery. there they whe re with ifica as ensu sign 2008 to a of ally end wing vidu working hard was closed at the jobs, Mr Corbett to considered indi , the ly of the and follo food. d.” d is designed a year round suppest quality corporate restructuring over over 100 ric ban loss of provocative e.” a request the originally hope nt process for the factory A gast arosof ical the high likely to be more successful than a third have ban overturned. gesture. a surg within the eved a turn and was ing ahead with is to achi forg itme hest ntly are pany ding fres ane recru “We ban com The d: perm in pany tric adde com , Gas a remain to do this site at Marybank. rway and the involves fitting , it can be removed salmon. Our aim isprovides a of £63.5m. refurbishment of our work underway is now unde about 70 jobs will be procedure that upper part of your stomach. However y of cases leaves no mented: that sail afterthan iderable the ferry a way thatapplication.

And every year, the Trust refuses When first a long Mike Corbett com this has cipateset majorit to accede. their anti staff There is cons for -ofin the state less and ness band around the only ach. to new busi little l stom a ble ally lling enta ly, sustaina is usu “Fundam t changes to the and we will be insta upgrading staff available initial n of nearly 100. ity.” stomach. It ent to the resort for permanen announced by Golden and and the local commun pment been our commitmwhic as a last inal projectio stood ed rt equi origminister a 25 year committ Amid speculation that the Licensing Board someone new is elected to thethis the-aities and bitter battle, the h we mmendedtime It was nt of the a recoEvery “We are on HIE had approved morbidly obese l in Clydebank communities in . Due to the exte see the ble Added Mr Corbett: facil people who are I of over 40), or Jubilee Hospita are to begin offering fore LHC to build a new operate, encouraging year term and sustaina are for now long we lease t, ding men buil BM refurbish and hadn’t a legal leg and we Point. d sh perhaps Autumn, to ent they 0 week that they coul rides the (those with a Arni ch loym Heb 30-4 at in whi ry – fearing that emp be the een ns to in facto d betw s atio date I of operation suggestion roun operational farming s gas tric band oper other those with a BM mer as we had In response to the be built, professional condition that poseas be open to referrals from not rather than the Sum ng and who also have a processi re. that the factory tomaystand onmeth – ods, would not contest the appeal, lth risk, such : “HIE is in boards in the futu a serious hea a spokesperson said ons with product development. pressure health d bloo also high diabetes, ongoing discussi a Ltd in “The performance et for Caledoni g mark argued that it would be unfair to stron the Lighthouse Galloway cts st refle s to inve with salmon relation to their plan Hebrides. Scottish itions Outer market cond in the deny Stornoway Club the commercial are favourableGolf ons are h opti whic s nt price Investme idered in and strong continue to currently being cons cipated opportunities to others.

“The fact to the thouse Caledonia anti open . Key 2010 detail by Ligh long term throughout success is the ’s Ltd and as yet pany not been com havethere brand premises in the the of ent that are other licensed commitments their developm g udin long incl ring , secu lised fina strategy and Arnish." relationships proposals for marketon h more term town already open Sundays means our on Sundays to It has been a muc recently which maximise premium the club. Opening for operating costs of ks and televised sporting events rtunities tive time for LHC posi oppo e of t pric announcemen are going the members there to watch televised provide food, drin sed business opportunity”. on.” with salm tish the first Scot was seen as a “mis extension of hours was a means record results for following the , to for AR g 2010 and EDG lyin of dem OR App ter TAYL was by ed quar at. There sport when te.co.uk production they could be doing it in their er Cup ing the club aflo taylor.edgar@stornowaygazet improved levels ofconditions. events like the Ryd The board receiv ofwatckeep meet h televised sporting Cup in the clubhouse on and strong market noway Golf Club tern turnover committee of Stor own club. pany saw om com forthcoming World y. He explained that many fr The and ns THE management to discuss their next move after the Wes day io the period, Gallowa object Sun Sundays, said Mr dy watched TV sports at other rise to £24m for for the same tonight (Thursday) rd bunkered their application for a m alrea £6.2 bers to d Boa g mem pare nsin club com “We have Isles Lice ested a quality golf course here and, on Sundays. as harv 4premises regularly expressed by board members at quarter in 2009, three local l appeal against the drinks licence. tripled to was de to launch a lega Some concern was application but were assured volumes more than nst the The club may deci ication, but at the time of writing it d’s the if we agai want to keep that quality up, we need appl boar e th 6,468 tonnes the off-sales part of would not be a major part of to s 3 vote refusing the the club would have the licensing were nt its Prof this tonight. reside previous year. will not be able

by Mr Galloway not expected that in time for it to be discussed fully loss in day sales. “People castle grounds a £13,500 the Sun nst agai from ons from m d to have quality equipment with which to reas me £6.6 aine of t inco abst the in n statemen board member who ld be in off the beaten tracke sure of that,” he told Q1 last year. also However, the one leod, conceded that the club wou mak licence applicatio toandwalk d company has and The maintain buy a carry-out. I will bers. court. A ninth boar in vote, Mr Murdo Mac it.

You don’t get much change out of tion al posi mem appe rd cash an d the win ds Centre improved its the Licensing Boa “highly likely” to Mr Martin Taylor, was unable to atten repayments d that the Woodlans but there can make significant s.

Mr Galloway adde kday to 10pm. member, chairman, loan -term ales from 12.30pm ed there were signs café did “excellent business” on wee le Grounds to er, 40 or 50 grand for a good piece of golf-course long off-s hold Monday. nst and ce on agai pm licen ting ’s ter mee Cast d club quar boar ting start in the on knock back, the nted and would be This successful first Even before the mee contentious when the half was nowhere for walkersSundays.

75p VOL XC1 4066 the After the applicati ppoi was follows ee on ance mittee. y said he was disa perform that the application fing ran to 70 minutes. machinery.

In the present economy, that’s quite get a meal or a coffto the vote, board member Mr year the Mr Ken Gallowa ome to tonight’s management com up to for that brie t e ting men e thre to the announce hour pre-mee When it cam reporting on the outc nted with the decision. It will be ived objections from and its contribution ppoi The board had receof whom was third placed Macleod praised the club but said he would be He said: “I'm disa de if they appeal.” an investment for a club of our size.” tion, sporting life of the town drinks hours residents, one Elec deci g l to ting eral loca ndin ee exis Gen 's exte mitt club ort the com the idate at 11 ied to vary the golf the Free abstaining as he could not supp cop out. I independent cand The club had appl day on-site sales between 12 noon and the presbytery of ng: “This is not a The religious lobby argue that a licence Murdo Murray, and(Continuing) who cited public into the Sabbath, addi licence to permit Sun land Scot is main as their Church of have to abstain.” separate issue of playing golf and over-supply club is health, nuisance Meanwhile, the to sell alcohol on Sunday would “damage . erstood that the grounds for objection ctors were present for the still active. It is und ways of bringing about a lords, the None of the objed from Mr Galloway that a continuing to examine condition from land e hear h morality”, “weaken the integrity of the leas that the whic nt of ting mea mee relaxation bership numbers downturn in memcould no longer support the Stornoway Trust. community” and increase alcoholism, subscription fees domestic violence and anti-social behaviour.

GASTRIC BAND OPERATIONS ISLANDERS ARE POSTCODE LOTTERY LOSERS

y r o t c a f h s i n Ar r o f d e n i l e d i s Marybank revamp?

er id s n o c o t b lu C lf o G Stornoway w o r s k in r d y a d n u S appeal in

Golf AsiA

w 57

feature

No play day The beautiful Stornoway course is deserted on a Sunday to meet terms of the lease.

When the club’s application was rejected in May, the Free Church of Scotland reminded the Licensing Board “of their responsibility before the higher court of Almighty God and of the reality of their being called to account for actions which will further permit the desecration of the Lord’s Day”.

Murdo Murray, who stood as an independent candidate in this year’s Westminster elections, and as a Christian party candidate in the 2007 Scottish elections – winning more than 10 per cent of the vote on each occasion – is among 58

wGolf AsiA

those who objected. He regards the land, which is also home to Lews Castle, as a haven for children and their families. He fears the sale of alcohol nearby would spoil its tranquillity and be a dangerous temptation for the area’s alcoholics.

According to Murray, it doesn’t even make sense for the golf club. “If truth be told, it’s really about making money, but you don’t get economic prosperity by going against God’s word. The Sabbatarian principle has been upheld on the islands over many a year. If you start trampling on

‘IT’S A MATTER OF CHOICE, A MATTER OF EQUALITY...’

God’s word, the same things will happen as happened to the Israelites of old.”

Murray fears the application for a Sunday licence is a tactical manoeuvre intended only to pave the way for the introduction of Sunday play. “If they’re allowed to sell alcohol, they’re going to say, hold on guys, you’re allowing us to do that, but you’re not allowing us

THE Club A short course at 5,252 yards, with plenty of hazards. The course record is 62, it holds the Western Isles Open Amateur Championships every July and costs US$31 a round (US$47 a day or US$118 a week). If the bar or shop are not open, you leave your fee in a box in the men’s locker room.

Founded in 1890, it has an illustrious history and used to be situated where Stornoway Airport now is. The course relocated to the grounds of Lews Castle after the Second World War with the aid of Air Ministry compensation, who requisitioned the original course in 1939. Old Tom Morris is known to have designed Askernish on South Uist and the club like to think he visited their original course. Since the Club’s minute books have been lost, this is hard to disprove.

ISLE OF LEWIS

THE MAp

sTornoway ISLE OF HArrIS

to do the really healthy thing, which is play golf. It is just another step to that ultimate objective.”

Stornoway is one of only a few golf courses in the world that do not permit play on a Sunday. The Old Course in St Andrews is another, although that has less to do with religious observance than protection of the links. For the Stornoway members who work long hours through the week, Saturday is the only time they can tee it up, and if the rain comes, that too is ruled out.

The whole wretched issue is riddled with inconsistencies.

On a Sunday in Stornoway, you can drink yourself silly in the pub, but you can’t play on the golf course. You can do just about anything on it, except what it was built for.

Trying to establish at what point an activity crosses from the spiritual to the secular makes rather a mockery of the Church, which is also accused of disregarding civil liberties. Stornoway Golf Club is not demanding that Sabbatarians play on a Sunday, but that they respect the rights of others so to do. “It’s a matter of choice, a matter of equality,” says Galloway. “They have a right to choose what they want to do and when they want to do it. Why should they have the right to inflict their views on others?”

A few have exercised that right

regardless. Stories abound of visitors, even members – or “guerrillas” as one newspaper described them – playing the course on a Sunday. As Galloway cheerfully points out, if the Trust does not allow the club to employ staff – even a course ranger – on that day, it can hardly complain if prohibited play goes “unnoticed”. To report it would be to contravene the terms of the lease. “It’s the only course in Scotland where you get a free game on a Sunday,” says Club Captain, Norrie MacDonald.

“If someone isn’t a member, we can’t do anything about it.”

In February, there will be another AGM, and another request for change, but the club have to move with caution. With most avenues of protest already exhausted, the only remaining option is legal action.

They would be confident of succeeding in court, but in the event of failure, their very existence would be in jeopardy. Quite apart from the crippling legal bills, Galloway fears that the landlord might not renew the lease.

The Stornoway Trust, which regards it as a private matter, did not return our calls. a Golf AsiA

w 59

profile

At home Francesco molinari, photographed exclusively for Golf World in London, summer 2010.

60

wGolf AsiA

AN ITALIAN IN LONDON Francesco is one half of the Molinari brothers; World Cup winners and now Ryder Cup siblings. Unlike his brother, the recently crowned HSBC Champions winner is calm, patient and... living in Kensington. We went to find out why.

WORDS BY JOck HOWaRD PHOTOGRaPHY BY TOm HOWaRD, GeTTY

A

s I climb up the Spartan stairs of his maisonette, a tiny ginger cat runs for cover and trembles under a wardrobe. “That’s Ricardo,” Francesco explains. “Rikki, for short. We named him after Richard the Lionheart, because he is terrified of everyone and everything!” (Who said only the British do irony?)

Francesco ‘Chicco’ Molinari isn’t yet an Anglophile, but you don’t have to speak to him for very long to realise there is much about British culture which he loves. As his Italian wife of three years, Valentina, floats in with a mug of coffee, I notice a big poster of Campbell’s Tomato Soup on the wall of their sitting room, and a DVD of “Bridget Jones’ Diary” in their bookcase. On the table is a leaflet from the Wigmore Hall, outlining all the imminent concerts which they are both planning to go to.

What’s more, both of them have recently bought a house in the very metropolitan Borough of Kensington and Chelsea; the same place our Prime Minister lived before he went to No.10. This is chic and cosmopolitan SW7, and we are within a par 5 of the Fulham Road, Hyde Park and the Royal Albert Hall.

“Valentina did her MBA in Hamstead before we got married,” Francesco explains, “and I used to come and visit her a lot. We both love living right in the heart of London, and Hamstead was just too far from Heathrow and Gatwick.”

Yea, yea; but what about all the traffic, all the noise, and the pollution?

“Having lived in Italy,” he says with a shrug and a smile, “we’ve seen much worse! When I go to play golf in the mornings at the Wisley” [where, incidentally, Denis Pugh – who coaches both Francesco and Edoardo – is based] “all the bad traffic is going in the other direction; so I am safe. We don’t have an Underground in Turin, so Valentina and I love to go on that.”

But don’t you find it really filthy?

“No, not really. It goes under the ground, so what do you expect?”

Francesco is the more practical brother; the one with more common sense. While Edoardo is the poet, Francisco is more prosaic. While Edoardo is impulsive and wears his heart on his sleeve, Francesco is quieter, calmer, more patient. While Edoardo did a Degree in Engineering, Francesco was doing his in Economics. While Edoardo is like Seve and Alex Hurricane Higgins, Francesco is much more like Bernhard Langer and Steve Davis. Nothing illustrated this better than when the two brothers won the World Cup for Italy last November in China.

Playing foursomes, and needing a par on the final par 4 to win, Francesco found the fairway, as he almost always does (he is 5th in the European Tour driving accuracy stats) and then Edoardo missed the green with his approach, finding a bunker. Francesco Golf AsiA

w 61

profile

WhAT YOU cAN LeArN frOm TheIr sWINgs… with Denis Pugh

EDOARDO’S SwiNg “Edoardo started out with a big shoulder turn and a shorter arm swing, which is good; but he used a lot of downswing lag with his wrists which meant he had a bit of a lash at the ball. As a result, he would hit it hard from the inside with lots of right to left spin. Basically, when his timing was off, his ‘bad’ shot would hook badly left into the trees. He has worked very hard technically to firm up both the backswing and the downswing, and he really feels now he’s quite firm-wristed throughout the swing. He has a lot of body-rotation when he hits the ball, and he’s managed to take a right to left shot and turn it into a dead straight one.”

62

wGolf AsiA

green with his approach, finding a bunker.

Francesco then played a delightful shot to three feet, before Edoardo sank the putt.

What happened next was pure theatre.

Perhaps due to the relief of winning despite finding the bunker with his approach (or perhaps because that’s just his nature) Edoardo (otherwise known as “Dodo”) set off around the green leaping, yelling, jumping and screaming.

Francesco (perhaps because he knows his brother so well and had seen it all before, or perhaps because that’s just the way he is) simply smiled.

In a way, this is why they work so well together. Francesco is the perfect foil for Edoardo and vice versa. They are so different, so at the opposite ends of the

spectrum, that they find each other’s characters endlessly baffling, endlessly intriguing; and so (unlike a lot of brothers) never get bored of each other’s company.

“Edoardo is older than me,” says Francesco, “so when we were younger, he was always the better player. Then, when we were 16, we were pretty much the same level. From then on, it’s been really close.

I’ve had times when I’m playing better; and then he has. As players we have different strengths and weaknesses. I have always been pretty accurate off the tee and had a more consistent long game; because Edoardo was a bit wild with the driver. He used to have a really good short game and I didn’t. But, in the last five years, he’s been working really hard on his driving, and I’ve

EdOArdO

How the brothers have matched each other.

Francesco’s swing is one of the best golf swings on the Tour. He’s the ultimate shotmaker. He’s got power and accuracy and can fly the ball in either direction, high or low. His technique is the perfect blend of the three key fundamentals of balance, plane and leverage. At the moment, we’re working on making sure he compresses the ball more. Because he has a tendency to take the ball quite cleanly off the turf, if his timing is not quite there he doesn’t tend to get the true distance he should; but by compressing down on the ball, his distances are much more consistent.”

cArEEr STOry

FRANCESCO’S SwiNg

plays with Tiger in the masters.

Francesco is his caddie and is not allowed into the clubhouse.

EdOArdO Wins uS Amateur at merion.

FrAncEScO Wins the italian Open, the first time an italian has won on home soil for 26 years.

FrAncEScO Has a steady year on the European Tour and finishes 86th.

junE 2005

dEc 2005

April 2006

mAy 2006

been working really hard on my short game; so now, we are much more level at everything.”

You don’t have to spend long in their company to work out they are frighteningly competitive and have been, ever since the 2002 Spanish Amateur Championship, when they found themselves up against each other in the third round. Edoardo, who was 21, was 5-up at the turn. Francesco, who was 19, was 1-up on the 18th tee. Edoardo eventually won on the 21st. Neither has ever forgotten it.

Interestingly, Edoardo’s two wins this year (in the Barclays Scottish Open and the Johnnie Walker Championship) came while his brother Francesco was playing with him in the final pairing. But, any suggestion that subconsciously Francesco may have eased up, to let his brother win and get into the Ryder Cup team, is batted away with some velocity by their coach, Denis Pugh.

“People wouldn’t even begin to suggest that, if they knew anything about them,” Pugh says. “They are very, very, very competitive with each other; all the time. The difficulty when they are paired together in a strokeplay event is that they almost try to beat each other too much.

They over-try.

“They are both great guys to be around, and both have great senses of humour. At the US Open this year, at Pebble Beach, a journalist came up to them and asked: ‘How well do you guys get on?’ Edoardo replied: ‘Really well. In fact we are as close

as brothers.’ Sadly, his little Francesco the stats eDoarDo joke flew right over the head 5th > 70.41 STrOKE AvErAgE 12th > 70.75 of the American press man.

5th > 72.8% driving AccurAcy 18th > 69% But then, Francesco chipped 122nd > 282.3 yds driving diSTAncE 82nd > 286.1 yds in with: ‘Very, very competitive 7th > 74.2% grEEnS in rEgulATiOn 6th > 75% brothers.’ That little vignette brilliantly illustrated for me how 92nd > 1.791 puTTS pEr gir 54th > 1.774 their relationship works.

120th > 30.1 AvErAgE puTTS 110th > 30 “It just takes a little longer 61st > 56.1 SAnd SAvES 50th > 57.4 to get to know Francesco,” 52nd > 56.9 ScrAmBlES 55th > 56.4 continues Pugh. “He’s a little 82nd > 5.52 OnE-puTTS pEr rOund 163rd > 4.93 quieter and more reserved. But, once you get to know him, he’s very sharp-witted and has a wicked sense of actually partnered each other. humour. Edoardo is exactly how we expect “I’ve dreamed about being in the Ryder all Italians to be, very outgoing and upbeat, Cup since I was a kid,” says Francesco. and what you see is what you get. When “And to have my brother there as well is just things are going well, he is smiling and fantastic. The first one I watched was at Oak laughing. When they are going badly, he is Hill in 1995, and I’ve been glued to every frowning.” one since. Costantino Rocca at Valderrama, And, just as the brothers are very different when he beat Tiger in the singles, inspired personalities, so their golf games have very all of my generation in Italy. I’ve talked to different characteristics. “Francesco has an Rocca a lot about his second shot to the absolute classic swing,” says Pugh, “one of 16th, when he was blocked out by trees and the best swings you will ever see on Tour. his caddie wanted him to lay up, but he hit He’s a terrific shot-maker, has great balance, a 2-iron to 10 feet. I remember screaming at and great consistency. Edoardo has become the TV when Phillip Price holed that winning very consistent too, off the tee, but his real putt against Phil Mickelson on the 16th at strength is his short game.”

The Belfry in 2002. Oli Wilson and Graeme It was a terrific achievement to both McDowell have talked to me about how make Monty’s team at Celtic Manor; not everyone’s hands are shaking on the 1st tee.” least because the Molinaris are only the It’s time to leave, and amazingly Rikki has third set of brothers (after Bernard and stopped shaking. He has come out from Geoffrey Hunt and the three Whitcombes) under the wardrobe and allows me to stroke to play on the same team on either side his back. A bit like his owner, Francesco, it of the Atlantic. Only once before, when takes a bit of time to get to know Rikki; Charles and Ernest Whitcombe won a but if you take the time, it’s well worth foursomes match in 1935, have brothers the effort... a

FrAncEScO

FrAncEScO

Keeps improving and finishes 24th on the Order of merit.

The brothers win the World cup.

EdOArdO EdOArdO Fails to get through Q School and has to play on the challenge Tour.

EdOArdO Wins twice on the challenge Tour to graduate to the Euro Tour.

dEc 2006

EdOArdO Has a very disappointing time on the main tour, missing 15 cuts and failing to make the top-10 in any event.

nOv 2007

dEc 2008

EdOArdO

Wins the Scottish Open at loch lomond.

Wins the johnnie Walker and gets a wild card pick from monty. now 15th in the world.

catches fire at the end of the year and wins four of his last six events, including the dunlop phoenix in japan.

nOv 2009

Wins HSBc cahmpions

EdOArdO

FrAncEScO Qualifies for the ryder cup; now 35th in the world.

dEc 2009

july 2010

Aug 2010 Golf AsiA

nOv 2010

w 63

the game

IS ChIna ComIng? Addressing China’s emergence into the golfing world is not a question of “if”; it’s a question of “how fast?” At the WGC-HSBC Champions European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie and reigning US Masters champions Phil Mickelson discovered that the answer is faster, so much faster, than they had thought. Tim Maitland reports.

T

here are few definitive truths one can utter about a nation of China’s massive scale. There are however some useful generalisations about the “Middle Kingdom” especially in the last 10 or 20 years. Firstly, it tends to develop in whatever it is doing, far quicker than almost all outside predications. Secondly, China, just as it did with its “socialist market economy”, tends to find its own way. The same broadbrush strokes apply for golf.

Just as surpassing Japan’s gross domestic product in the second quarter of 2010 confirmed China’s status as an economic power, China’s position as a global tournament host has also been confirmed.

It took just one edition of the HSBC Champions as a World Golf Championships event to complete a process started by

Tiger Woods calls the Shanghai tournament the crowning jewel of all of Asian golf. Photo: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images.

64

wGolf AsiA

Phil Mickelson plays an air shot on the 16th on the final day of the 2009 WGC-HSBC Champions, described by one American writer as possibly the most exciting finish of the decade. Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty Images

China’s future stars, like seven-year-old Yang Manlixiang (pictured) at the Guangzhou Leg of the 2010 HSBC National Junior Championship are being groomed by the HSBC China Junior Golf Program. Photo: HSBC CJGP.

the Volvo China Open, the first truly international Chinese professional event in 1995, to convince most of the naysayers that Shanghai was going to work.

That it happened faster than anyone imagined is beyond issue. As world number one Lee Westwood exclaimed recently: “It’s achieved a high-profile status very quickly, amazingly quickly when you look at other tournaments and how much history they have before they achieve that kind of fame.”

Westwood also neatly plucked out three factors that indicate that Shanghai’s growing importance on the global golf calendar – this is after all the event that Tiger describes as “the crowning jewel of all of Asian golf” – is unlikely to do anything but continue its upward trend “The Chinese economy is

probably the strongest economy in the world right now, it’s a good tournament, a great tournament, and it’s a great golf course; that’s really all you can ask for,” Westwood said.

The point seems to have been taken on board across the board in America, where the credit crunch closed courses and the stagnation in terms of the numbers of golfers is increasingly being seen as a decline. A very American golfer like Ben Crane had, until going to Shanghai, never

ventured further than the (British) Open Championship. Significantly, Crane now wears the logo of Swiss financial services company Zurich and German fashion brand Hugo Boss on his cap and chest, whereas a couple of years ago it was a windows and doors company from his home state of Oregon and the American ball brand Titleist.

“We want it to be a worldwide game and that’s why this event is so great for golf,” said Crane, winner of the PGA Tour’s 2010 Farmers Insurance Open, revealing an important shift in his mindset in common with many of his fellow countrymen.

“For us Americans it’s a minimum of a 22-hour trip, so I was surprised to see this good of a field this late in the year. You know what? When the best players show up it makes the other players want to show up.

It’s a really well done event on a great site.

The hotel and the accommodation here is fantastic, the food is good; all the things add up for it to really be one of the world’s best tournaments and it has proved to be.”

A roll of honour that working backwards from 2010 goes Francesco MolinariMickelson-Garcia-Mickelson-Yang adds to Crane’s point rather well. When the best players show up AND win, everybody wants to be on the guest list.

The addition of the PGA Tour’s first foray into South East Asia (the limited field CIMB Asia Pacific Classic took place at The Mines Resort in Malaysia the week Golf AsiA

w 65

the game

Wider access to golf courses isn’t necessarily a key to China developing star golfers. Korea’s Dragon Girls – Oh Ji-Young Oh, Choi Na-Yeon, Park In-Bee, Shin Ji-Yai, Kim Song-Hee and Kim In-Kyung – spent their teenage years on driving ranges. Photo: Scott Halleran/Getty Images.

European Ryder Cup hero says the HSBC Champions has become high-profile amazingly quickly. Photo: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images.

66

wGolf AsiA

found a Chinese solution and, loathe as one is to make broad sweeping statements, many of the world’s top golf course designers are there and they’re not there on holiday.

The question now is how? To understand the way golf is evolving there it helps to think of golf as a feature, like an elaborate marble fountain; a centre piece to a real estate lifestyle business. That will only continue; Imperial Springs near Guangzhou, which is close to completion, will make all the palatial developments that have preceded it look, in comparison, for want of a better word, a bit Caddyshack.

Among the more promising developments for those of us who can’t let go of western concepts of “sport” being something more in a Corinthian way, isn’t the massive new Mission Hills project on Hainan Island, although that points the way to where the world’s next big tourist magnet will be, but the low-grade locally-designed tracks that form a part of the equally enormous but little-known Nanshan International Golf Club in Shandong province. It is also worth remembering that virtually all of the members clubs allow daily-fee golf and that as China’s middle class grows wealthier the sport is going to become more affordable to them.

However, arguing that golf in China needs to trickle down the societal layers to reach the masses before we can address the next question – where China’s stars are going to come from – is made redundant by Korea’s example.

The Land of the Morning Calm has

Keeping the fun in the game is a key element to the HSBC China Junior Golf Program as more children are likely to fall in love with the game and stick with it. Photo: HSBC CJGP.

American Nick Watney says golf had to follow China’s economic and technological growth. Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty Images.

produced if not one of the greatest generations, certainly the single greatest year group of women golfers the world has ever seen without them ever seeing golf courses regularly. Shin Ji-Yai, Kim In-Kyung, Choi Na-Yeon – the so-called “Dragon Ladies” – honed their games on the top tier of Korea’s multi-story urban driving ranges, not on the drastically expensive, tee-off-at-5 a.m.oversubscribed golf courses.

As well as proving that access to courses isn’t critical, Korea also provides possibly the greatest wisdom when it comes to answering where China’s Woods, Mickelson, Wie or Miyazato is going to emerge from.

For the sake of finding a fancy name for it, we could call it the “Shin-Park paradigm” after two of Korea’s most recent women’s Major winners, Shin Ji-Yai and Park In-Bee. JiYai grew up as a golfer in Korea, winning on the KLPGA as a high-school student in 2005.

In-Bee went to the States at the age of 12 to do her growing there.

The answer to the Shin-Park puzzle in China is probably both. The clues, when it comes to looking into the future, ironically, weren’t to be found during the WGC-HSBC Champions but just before: on the day of the Pro-Am and on the previous weekend when the year-long HSBC National Junior Championship had its own version of the Champions – a winnersonly finale at the Sino-Bay Country Sports Club located in the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park outside Shanghai.

In its fourth year, the HSBC National Junior

Golf AsiA

w 67

the game

Apple Yang Jiaxin, is showing the early promise to suggest she might be one of the leaders of the next generation of Chinese golfers. Photo: HSBC CJGP

12-year-old Lucy Shi Yuting stunned the elite of world golf with her game during the HSBC Champions pro-am. Photo: HSBC CJGP

Guangzhou golfer Jenny Feng Shanshan came out of nowhere to earn her card on the LPGA tour. Photo: Andrew Redington/ Getty Images.

Championship passed a notable landmark; the entry list at Sino-Bay took the number of children to have benefited from an early taste of tournament golf past one thousand.

“A thousand children may not sound like a lot over the four years that we have been investing in the China Golf Association’s programme, but that’s the top of the pyramid,” said Giles Morgan, HSBC Group Head of Sponsorship.

“Below the top of that pyramid, we have had 8,000 children who have come through our summer and winter camps, learning the great game of golf, and below that, at the foundation of the pyramid, we have had 200,000 children touching golf for the first time in their schools’ PE lessons through the HSBC Education Programme,” added 68

wGolf AsiA

Morgan, whose investments in Chinese golf have been aimed at being the catalyst for the growth of the sport there.

If you’re asking yourself whether China’s fledgling golf industry – remembering that the first modern course only opened in 1984 – is mature enough to grow future champions yet, the raving enthusiasm of European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie answers that question emphatically.

After holding a clinic for some of the younger juniors before the WGC-HSBC Champions, Monty was effusive in his praise of what he saw.

“These are the Olympic champions and world champions of the future. They’re fantastic! Fantastic!” Monty bubbled.

“They’re proper golfers. They’re not just kids that can hit a golf ball on the range.

These are complete golfers at nine years old: driver, putting, and short game! I think in the next 10 years you’ll see a tremendous growth into competitive golf; I’m talking about into the world’s top 100. That’s inevitable. It’s going to happen. We have to accept that.

The competition is coming from this part of the world: Korea, China especially. Golf is booming!” the Scotsman said.

A more cautionary note was sounded recently by Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han, who questioned whether the tournament structure was in place to grow China’s male professionals. Han might have a point, but reports of his comments also failed to acknowledge the existence of the China PGA Tour as a successor to the Omega China Tour, which is far less visible than its predecessor outside of the Chinese language, and that at the time of writing the number of professional men’s tournaments in China in 2010 looked likely to match those of the previous two seasons.

The probability is that the women will come before the men, or, remembering how Jenny Feng Shanshan came from nowhere as a teenager to earn her LPGA card, the girls will come before the boys. The reality is for every Matteo Manassero, Rory McIlroy and Ryo Ishikwawa there are many more young female golfers who have proved competitive at an early age at the pinnacle of the women’s game. The domestic tour – the China LPGA – is in its second year and aims at staging 10 tournaments annually and Zhang Na’s four wins on the Japan LPGA in 2007 have established an alternative roadmap to the American route.

It’s already been suggested that the girls’ work ethic exceeds that of the Chinese boys by one high-profile overseas coach.

And while one makes generalisations with trepidation, perhaps also the Asian serenity, what long-time LPGA caddie Shaun Clews refers to as a, “certain calmness”, that the Korean stars benefit from, will also serve the Chinese girls too.

How ready are they? Well the stars at the WGC-HSBC Champions didn’t see the girls closest to joining the professional ranks, players like 15-year-olds Lu Yue and Apple Yang Jiaxin, because 12-year-old Lucy Shi Yuting won the rights to play the 17th hole on Pro-Am day. What they saw wasn’t just the potential to get onto the LPGA; they saw the potential to star, in much the same way that Koreans were saying Shin Ji-Yai would

European Ryder Cup hero says the HSBC Champions has become high-profile amazingly quickly.

Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty Images

have a Hall of Fame LPGA career when she was still a teenager.

“She hit a 6-iron to about 15 feet from the hole, lipped out the putt and made par.

She was an incredible player!” exclaimed Masters champion Phil Mickelson. “You could tell right away that she’s got a lot of potential to be a great golfer. She has a wonderful swing, a great short game, and great putting stroke. And at only 12, it’s amazing how talented she is at such a young age. I hope that she continues to develop and continues to play well and improve and become a force on the LPGA.” Seven-time PGA Tour winner Adam Scott of Australia was just as fulsome with his praise, which was generous, considering Lucy beat him on the hole kindling

unwelcome reminders of the only other time he lost to a girl: the 2004 Sony Open in Hawaii when he was beaten by two shots by a 14 year old called Michelle Wie. “Phenomenal! Everything, for 12 years old, looks great! A natural golf swing and hands look good on the club; hopefully she kicks on. No doubt we’ll be seeing her on the tour in the next five or six years on the tour, popping up at the US Open or something and she’ll be leading!” said the 2010 Valero Texas Open winner. “She looks like all the potential in the world. You can only encourage her because she’s 12 years old and just let her game develop naturally.

As long as she still enjoys practicing, she’ll be on a path to the LPGA, Majors; all that sort of stuff.”

Whether it will be the regular winners on the HSBC National Junior Championship (girls like Apple Yang, Lu Yue or Lucy Shi and boys like Zhang Jin or Zhou Tian) or those following the Park In-Bee route (Cindy Feng Yueer and the unrelated Feng Simin are both prominent on the American junior circuit) or one of the young men going through the US Colleges (Hu Mu, Wang Minghao or Han Ren) that will arrive first, only time will tell. Simin, originally from Beijing, is already an AJGA Rolex All-American while Yueer, from the city of Shenzhen in China’s golfing heartland Guangdong province, rates in the top on Golfweek’s junior ranking despite being a couple of years younger than her rivals, but then as a counterpoint Feng Shanshan was hardly on anyone’s radar outside Guangzhou when she went to the LPGA’s Q School.

The reality is that all these players are going to get even greater opportunities because of golf’s entry to the Olympics in 2016. Olympic status has moved the China Golf Association from a cul-de-sac (it was until a couple of years ago lumped in with and effectively financially supporting sports like cricket and snooker in the so-called “small ball” section) onto the six-lane superhighway of China’s sports ministry, The State General Administration of Sports.

However, after the 2010 WGC-HSBC Champions the questions being asked might need to change. Before it was “are they going to be good enough to compete with us?” Now perhaps it should be “are we going to be able to compete with them?” because Monty reckons China’s kids are streets ahead of any others he’s seen in the US or Europe.

“Oh, of course they are! Way ahead!

And of course the work ethic here is different. These kids are prepared to put in the hours it takes nowadays to become very, very good. You can see how they love it. They’re all involved. It’s fantastic and the work ethic here is different to ours,” Monty said, adding that the focus of the kids he saw put him to shame.

“I was a lazy player myself; two or three Golf AsiA

w 69

the game hours and I was getting a little bit bored.

These kids? Six, seven hours a day and just golf! Then they’re studying as well.

This is where the future is. Now golf has become an Olympic sport, in this country it can only add to the opportunities given to them and the incentives given to them.

They’re well ahead of our youngsters. If it’s a numbers game China wins every time hands down. I’ve had a successful career I suppose and I started at six and I couldn’t even get the ball airborne when I was ten, never mind hit the ball like this. These are golfers!”

So the answer when you ask whether China is coming is an emphatic yes. The question that remains is just exactly how good, where from, how many and how fast? a

American golfers such as Ben Crane are changing. The 2010 WGC-HSBC Champions was his first tournament abroad except for British Opens and he wears the names of European companies on his cap and chest. Photo: Scott Halleran/ Getty Images.

China’s Firsts n 1984 First modern golf course: Chung Shan Hot Spring, opens in Zhongshan, Guangdong province n 1985 May 24th. First governing body: the China Golf Association is established n 1986 January. First “international” tournament: Chung Shan hosts the Chung Shan Cup, featuring foreign players but not recognised by any outside sanctioning bodies the Pro-Am event is hailed in China the first international tournament. n 1990 September/October. First big event: The Asian Games golf tournament is held at Beijing Golf Club, Shunyi District. The Asian Games itself was the first large-scale international sports event to be held in the People’s Republic of China. n 1994 October. First medals: At the Asian Games in Hiroshima Zhang Lianwei wins an individual silver medal behind Kaname Yokoo, while China’s women’s team claims bronze. n 1994 April. First professionals: Zheng Wengen and John Xiao Chenghan are among a handful of golfers to become the first Chinese professionals when they pass a newly introduced CGA exam. n 1995. First Domestic Tour: The Volvo China Tour, China’s first domestic circuit, consisted of four 36hole tournaments. n 1995 April. First Official International Pro tournament: The Volvo China Open in Beijing (Beijing International Golf Club) is won by Raul Fretes of Paraguay. Total prize money was US$400,000.

70

wGolf AsiA

n 1997 April. First Chinese Winner of an International Tournament: Cheng Jun is victorious at the Volvo China Open in Beijing.

n 2007 First Chinese to join American college circuit: Han Ren enrols on a golf scholarship at Indiana University

n 2001 November. First Visit by a World Number One: Tiger Woods makes his first trip to China, an exhibition at Mission Hills near Shenzhen in Guangdong

n 2008 July. First Weekend Play in a Major: Liang Wenchong makes the cut at the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.

n 2003 January. First Chinese win in a European Tour event: Zhang Lianwei wins the co-sanctioned Caltex Masters in Singapore. n 2004. First Chinese Player in a Major championship: Zhang Lianwei receives an invitation to the Masters. n 2004 May. First Chinese Golf World Record: Mission Hills entered into Guinness Book of Records as the world’s largest golf club after its expansion to 180 holes. n 2005 November. First Time to Host Asia’s Leading Tournament: With US$5m prize money, the HSBC Champions, then Asia’s richest tournament, debuts in Shanghai. The inaugural tournament is won by English Ryder Cup star David Howell. n 2007 First Fully Integrated Junior Development Scheme: The HSBC China Junior Golf Program and HSBC National Junior Championships are launched. n 2007 First Chinese to win Asian Tour’s Order of Merit: Liang Wenchong clinches the title with nine top-ten finishes including a win at the Singapore Masters.

n 2008 November. First Impact on the Official World Golf Ranking: Sergio Garcia moves up to number two after winning the HSBC Champions.

It’s the first time an Asian event has had such a profound effect on the global standings. n 2009 April. First Women’s Tour: The China Golf Association announces the birth of the China LPGA Tour. The circuit will have strong links with the Orient Golf chain, playing the majority of the events on their courses. n 2009 Asia’s First WGC event: WGC status is awarded to the HSBC Champions in April, making it indisputably Asia’s single-most important tournament. The event in November features Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson playing in the same tournament for the first time in Asia. Paired together in the leading group on the final day, Mickelson triumphs. n 2010 First Impact on World Number One: Four players - Lee Westwood, Tiger Woods, Martin Kaymer and Phil Mickelson – arrived in Shanghai for the 2010 WGC-HSBC Champions, knowing a good week would make the number one in the world. No Asian tournament had ever impacted the very top of the Official World Golf Ranking.

www.golfasia.sg

Automobiles Gadgets Gastronomy Wellness

golfing life

golfers' ride

Double Dutch Spyker C8 Aileron From wheels asia magazine

T

he Spyker Aileron is car for the yacht club, the promenade and the finest restaurants. It is a Swiss watch of a car, a demonstration of power, style and pure wealth. The last place you’d expect to find it, then, is an American trailer park just outside of Scottsdale Arizona. But this is where we finish our adventure, the end of a hard days ride along the Apache trail in the appropriately named Lost Dutchman National Park.

Spyker is the brainchild of Dutchman Victor Mueller, who hit the headlines recently with his takeover of Saab. A car nut from birth, he owned a succession of supercars that couldn’t quite scratch his particular itch. So he decided to bring back the Spyker name, which had lain dormant for 75 years after the former coachbuilder and aircraft manufacturer shut up shop in 1925.

His plan was simple, to create visually sumptuous sportscars that were as satisfying to look at as they are to drive. And just one glance at

72

wGolf AsiA

the Aileron says he has at least one half of the equation right. At its core is a relatively sane mid-engined supercar silhouette, but to get there you have to look past the details. That isn’t a simple matter.

We meet the car at the Barrett-Jackson auction, an annual gathering of classic car nuts looking to shell out big money on John Dillinger’s getaway car or flamboyant 70s Corvettes with bigger wings than Batman. But even here the burnt orange Aileron causes a stir.

It is a pure visual orgy of details, it’s like a kid’s crazy drawing of a supercar made real. From the polished aluminium front spoiler to the jet inspired air intakes on the side and the roof, it is just that little bit above and beyond the supercar remit at every turn.

At the back the Audi-sourced 4.2-litre V8, all 400bhp of it, peaks through the glass panels, the stainless steel rear apron catches the light, as well as the odd stone,

Spyker iS the brainchild of dutchman Victor mueller, who hit the headlineS recently with hiS takeoVer of Saab.

and the company logo sits bold and proud, engraved into the big bore exhausts: “Nulla tenaci invia est via”, which translates as “For the tenacious, no road is impassable.” It is more than a casual catchphrase for Mueller and co, who have overcome disbelief and countless hurdles to bring this fantasy to market.

Since the company relaunched the firm has launched a bewildering number of models at motorshows around the world and even an F1 team. Yet it delivered just 250 of the hardcore, short wheelbase C8 Spyder and Laviolette models. In truth this was a mistake as the prototypes began to look like wishful thinking and Spyker was written off in many quarters as a simple pipe dream from a heavy smoking Dutchman.

Yet despite the knocks the company has grown and now Muller counts the royal family of Abu Dhabi amongst his investors. He also put the short wheelbase sportscar through the nightmarish American crash test and emissions regulations first, which takes time and money.

It’s a market many supercar manufacturers shy away from completely, but Muller went full bore and has been rewarded with a rich seam of sales and starring roles

Golf AsiA

w 73

golfers' ride

74

wGolf AsiA

in several movies – including the godawful Basic cost $50 apiece compared to the $1 parts bin Instinct 2 where the car was sexier than the specials that fill out most boutique supercars. aging leading lady. It didn’t always look like it, but Then there’s the exposed gear linkage, once Spyker has been learning to fly the whole time. again inspired by the world of aviation.

This is the second model in the line-up, joining It’s a rolling work of art, and though the the shorter wheelbase C8 Laviolette. That’s a Spyker isn’t quite as fast as the similarly priced true livewire of a car, a bucking bronco that takes opposition from Ferrari and Lamborghini, an expert hand to keep it on the road. This is neither of them come close when it comes to the grown-up GT car, a more refined machine pure theatre. for long-distance driving, as well as an assault Spyker is working on a faster version and is on the apex. Aimed somewhere in the region considering its options with the engine, as it of the Aston Martin DB9 could possibly crowbar when those things come the the V10 into the engine and Bentley Continental aileron will be a genuine GT Speed, it’s more bay and comfortably supercar contender, but even come up with a 600bhp aggressive than both now it works in its own way. Aileron, which will be a and comes with its own unique style and attititude. beast that stretches the Especially the interior, which is a world away chassis to the limit. from the Audi-sourced plastics that fit out a This, however, is more than an adequate Lamborghini and even the Fiat-based parts that start. There is no savage explosion, no vicious find their way into a Ferrari. Test and development burst of flames from a car that looks like a jet driver JP Clinging talks me through the cabin fighter in full flight. This is, when all said and and the help is appreciated, because this is no done, a mildly tuned Audi V8, and it simply ordinary car. coughs into life and settles into a steady The wheel is sourced from an Audi R8, but rumble. even that is trimmed with leather and we find Muller has already specced a louder exhaust that just three pieces of bare plastic in the whole will bring the characteristic V8 burble back into play. interior, including the fighter jet-style cover on the There are bypass valves that help make the note, starter. Everything else is leather trimmed and but even on its loudest setting it falls far short and aluminium and those tactile toggle switches fails to drown out the transmission whine from the

Golf AsiA

w 75

golfers' ride

Audi-sourced ZF torque converter auto box that will form the only transmission in the early days.

That, too, needs to change. Spyker reasonably argue that 100 per cent of its orders in recent years have been for automatics, so they had to go this route first.

The US, Middle East, Russia and Far East are the big markets right now, and everybody seems to want the more relaxed transmission.

But the chassis is crying out with potential and this package barely scratches the surface of its sporting aspirations.

With a full aluminium chassis tweaked by the company’s in-house racing team and the exact same suspension set-up that has starred this year on the Lotus Evora, the Aileron sounds like a dream sportscar. And it could be.

It isn’t, but that’s a conscious decision to turn this big two seater into a Grand Tourer.

So comparing the 0-100 time of 4.5s to the not too dissimilarly priced Lamborghini LP560-4, Ferrari 458 Italia and Audi R8 V10 is more or less pointless, although it’s 300kph top end speed is far from shabby, even in this company. Pure speed is only part of the Spyker equation and it’s niche lies somewhere between these balls out supercars and the luxury offerings from Aston Martin and Bentley.

The ride is sublime, on the highway the car registers expansion joints with a dull thud, but there isn’t even a tug on the wheel. This is a perfectly composed machine with near perfect poise, and in auto mode it is so utterly 76

wGolf AsiA

relaxed, and so utterly nuts on the aesthetic front, that you could easily imagine buying one for the cruise factor alone.

On the backroads, it is slightly less convincing. The Lotus-tuned suspension is magical and Spyker has produced a zero understeer car with massive mechanical grip at the rear thanks to 19” wheels wrapped in 235/35 and 295/30 Michelin Pilot Sports. This diamond, though, is not without its faults.

There is no traction control, just electronic brake distribution, which goes against the gentle giant grain of the car and could catch unwary owners out. I’m not sure how to reconcile that with the GT angle, especially as it’s a racing touch on a car that is categorically not a race car. It’s a bold mission statement from Mueller who is categorically against traction control in a sportscar, but we’ll see if he stands firm on that one in the future.

Even in Sport mode the ZF box always feels a fraction of a second behind the rest of the car, too, and I can’t quite trust it enough to hold the gear to really launch at the apex. Development will help toughen up this gearbox that started out in the S8 limousine, but it needs a six-speed manual for my money for true immediacy and ultimate faith. That’s on the way and when it arrives the results should be beyond stellar.

The drive is not helped by the development AP Racing steel brakes that aren’t completely progressive just yet and tend to grab half way through the travel. Those stoppers should be silky smooth come sale time, the manual ‘box

is on its way and a bigger power version is in the works, too.

When those things come the Aileron will be a genuine supercar contender, but even now it works in its own way.

Spyker says their car is an “and” car, not an “or” car, meaning owners generally have a Lamborghini and a Ferrari, and possibly a Pagani, in the garage already. So when the owner wants to go flat out they should take one of the other cars from the collection.

The Spyker competes on a different playing field, it’s a relaxed, spectacular looking supercar that will stand out in a crowd and bring a smile to the face of everyone that sees it.

It’s a flawed underdog that has willfully gone swimming in a sea infested with conglomerate owned Italian and German sharks. You have to love the sheer audacity of the plan and on his second attempt Muller has created a car that is a slug of power and a manual gearbox away from greatness in the supercar ranks and is already a fantastic GT car in its own right.

For the tenacious, it seems, no road is impassable, even if it heads straight through the Lost Dutchman National Park and ends in an Arizona trailer park. a For enquiries: Auto Palace Pte Ltd A: 237 Alexandra Road #01-08 The Alexcier, S(159929) T: 65-6471 9514 F: 65-6471 1528

Looking for a special

Christmas gift?

SAVE UP TO 20% with this unique and thoughtful subscription offer!

save

save

20% Wheels Asia 12 issues: $38 (UP: $48)

save

20% Golf Asia 12 issues: $77 (UP: $96)

save

20% escape 6 issues: $29 (UP: $36)

20% Food & Travel 12 issues: $48 (UP: $60)

Reasons to give a magazine subscription...

save

save

15% Lonely Planet Asia 6 issues: $38 (UP: $45)

save

15% BBC GoodFood 12 issues: $77 (UP: $90)

• Save up to 20% with these exclusive Christmas offer • Free delivery to his/ her doorstep every month • It is a gift that last all year round!

15% BBC Knowledge 12 issues: $77 (UP: $90)

SUBSCRIPTION FORM YES! I want to take up this special christmas gift subscription Tick your choice of magazines below: ❍ Lonely Planet Asia ❍ BBC Goodfood ❍ Escape ❍ Food&Travel Your details: Title

First Name

Surname

Address Postal Code Tel No

HP

❍ BBC Knowledge

❍ Wheels Asia

❍ Golf Asia

Payment options: ❍ CHEQUE [Please enclose cheque made payable to Regent Media Pte Ltd] Cheque No.

Amount

❍ CREDIT CARD [VISA, MASTERCARD ONLY] Debited amount under “GE Connections” will be reflected in your credit card statement for Singapore Subscribers.

Email

Cardholder’s Name

Gift recipient details: Title

First Name

Surname

Address Postal Code Tel No Email

HP

Card No

Expiry Date

Signature

Date

Send completed form to Regent Media Pte Ltd, 3 Loyang Way, Singapore 508719 or Fax: 6543 3719.

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Promotion is valid till end of 31 December 2010. This subscription offer is non-refundable. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. All prices are inclusive of GST. Payment by cheque and bank draft will be made payable to “Regent Media Pte Ltd”. For enquiries, please call our customer service at Tel: 6543 3681 or email to: subscription@regentmedia.sg Promotion is valid for Singapore & Malaysia territories only.

golfers' ride

Don't Miss This One BMW M3 from wheels asia magazine

78

wGolf AsiA

it comes with a suspension that's 10mm lower than the regular m3's, electronic damper control (edc) and a tuned up dynamic stability control (dsc).

L

ife as a high-performance car isn't always easy. Sure there will always be someone with deep pockets to adopt one, but to see it in a different light, it usually falls into two different categories: one that drives exactly as you wanted it to, or one that looks the part but is just a whole load of - for no better word - c-r-a-p.

I always have a certain degree of respect for the M3 (this despite the fact that the last M3 I drove, a self-cogging sedan, has a clutch feel and shift action that somewhat makes a cheaper Civic Type-R's much more superior). You can't help but feel it's a quiet, unassuming car for people who just want to get home very quickly without any songand-dance about it. But here's the down side. With so many aftermarket parts easily available, you get M3 wannabes sprouting out from every corner of the street.

My initial thought was this rather new BMW M3 Coupe Competition is merely a marketing exercise. Besides the recent aesthetic updates, we jolly well know there isn't exactly anything new about it.

Seems like some marketing genius from the M factory decided to slap on a few goodies, give it a new name (come on, "Competition"? Why not "Hamburger" instead?) and release it wholeheartedly. And wait for the bait to be bitten.

Only for me to be proven wrong.

Surprisingly, there is more to the name.

You see, the Competition you're seeing here is a totally different game. Yes, it gets the same 4.0-litre V8 engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

Cars, like life in general, are undeniably becoming ever more sanitised and controlled by some unseen all-knowing force, hence beneath all that, it comes with a suspension that's 10mm lower than the regular M3's, electronic damper control (EDC) and a tuned up dynamic stability control (DSC).

To keep weight in check and ensure better aerodynamics, it comes along with carbon fibre roof, air insert on the lower part of the front bumper and boot spoiler. Competition ready, indeed.

Inside, you get BMW's typical build quality and harrowingly idiot-proof layout - which is wonderful, considering you don't need to keep your eyes off the road just to get the air-con to blow colder air. The properly-sized steering wheel also comes with nine hundred and eighty nine other control buttons.

Even the seats, if you were to adjust it to your personal liking, feels so huggable and comfortable at the same time, every driver with spinal issues ought to get one of 'em.

All these goes to prove how driver-oriented the car is. But nevertheless, it shows off its

Golf AsiA

w 79

golfers' ride practical side as well, what with three other seats - for your friends who probably hang out with you as they only like the car - and a big boot even the wife should approve of. iDrive comes standard, and it's here where you get to twiddle between a thousand and thirteen other things, be it for the GPS, bluetooth phone interface or parking monitor.

Now here's the thing. When you buy a car such as an M3, all you want to hear while driving is the engine note and exhaust rapping away - in a nutshell, a full-on audio system is pretty much redundant. But BMW being BMW, a premium sound system courtesy of harman/kardon speakers mated to a BMW Professional head-unit has to be in there. Probably just to satisfy the owner further after paying more than three hundred grand for the car...

BMW's philosophy runs along the line of 'Life's too short not to' and the Competition is here to ram the message home. From where I

80

wGolf AsiA

in the league of fast cars, the choices have blurred with everyone trying to do everything - but the m3 here hasn't failed to remain special, in so many ways.

am sitting, it's doing a pretty effective job.

Close your eyes, add a bit of throttle and you hear a proper V8 noise. Instant aural relief to any ears tired of the muted murmur of refined four and six-pot lumps heavyweight, gruff and on just the right side of scary sounding.

But scary is the last thing this car is. Power and torque from the 3,999cc engine are not in any short supply, with a massive 420bhp at - get this - 8,300rpm and 400Nm from 3,900rpm. But the linear, strong chested power delivery means it will haul on from just 1,000rpm - even in seventh gear. So unlike a turbocharged car, or a peaky straight-six or high-revving million-valve four-cylinder, the V8 just gets on with it - any engine speed, any gear. Any ankle flex results in entirely predictable responses.

BMW claims the Competition is good for 250km/h, reaching 100km/h in a scanty 4.6 seconds. To be honest, it's at its best in third, fourth and fifth gear, where you can really

appreciate the torque, the overtaking power and the soundtrack, which really hardens past 4,000rpm. Swap the DCT 'box into seventh and the Competition settles to a relaxed cruise. That's the best thing - it will happily handle the mundane monotony of expressway mileage without taxing you, but as soon as you depart in search of twisties, the car comes back to life...

The Competition is not spared from trying to be the Apple of performance cars though - seems like a German engineer's wet dream come true. Well it's nice to be able to get to choose the suspension setting and how you want the car to behave for the day, but personally speaking, I'd rather busy myself with the driving than to have to worry about this - it's akin to solving an algebraic equation. Just give me a button on how ferocious I wanted the car to be - very fierce, quite fierce, moderately fierce or boring - and I'll be fine.

However despite that, BMW's M3 Coupe Competition is truly special. To be daring, I think of it as God's gift to mankind. The engineers might have gone overboard with all the technological wizardry, but the boffins have definitely gotten it rather perfectly, especially when you put into consideration the brilliant steering, well-checked body control and wholesome anchors.This is the car for those who couldn't care less about planets, petrol stations (no need for an economy gauge) or tyre wear. The sort of driver that offers their mate a lift not out of

bmw's philosophy runs along the line of 'life's too short not to' and the competition is here to ram the message home.

courtesy, rather just so they can define the meaning of speed.

If you have the means to spare $380k, I really urge you to get one of this. There are already rumours that the next generation M3 might come with a turbocharged engine instead - so while you still can, grab this future classic that will go down our automotive history as "one of the best coupe money can ever buy".

Forget the Porsche 911. a Golf AsiA

w 81

golfers' ride

SLS AMG Lauded For Its Design T

he super sports car from MercedesBenz, of which the stunning lines and distinctive gull wing doors recall the legendary 300 SL of the 1950s, faced some stiff competition. More than 1500 products were entered for the design competition.

A highly qualified, independent jury, made up of representatives from the industry, academia, design and the media, decided upon the recipients of the design award.

Following a rigorous selection process, the jury ultimately awarded the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany 2011 in gold to 25 products. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

82

wGolf AsiA

was the only car to receive this top award.

The Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany 2011 is all the more special because its expert jury can only confer it on products that have previously received other design awards. This ensures that the standard is always extremely high.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS has already received numerous design awards from around the world, including the prestigious “red dot” design award. The “gull wing” model was also the winner of several large-scale reader surveys carried out by top motoring magazines. It is, however, not just

the exceptional and exciting design of the super sports car that makes it stand out from the crowd, but also its stunning technology.

The list of highlights reads impressively: aluminium space frame body, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine with dry sump lubrication, 420 kW (571 hp) and 650 Newton metres of torque, seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration and a nimble double-wishbone aluminium sports suspension. This unique combination of high-tech engineering ensures driving dynamics of the highest order.

The German Design Award will be

presented by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology at a special public awards ceremony on 11 February 2011. The German Design Council is also arranging a design award exhibition at which all prizewinning products will be displayed.

Since its world premiere at the 2009 International Motor Show in Frankfurt/Main, the SLS AMG has won numerous major awards that include: n “Most Sporty Cars of 2010” (sport auto) n “Red Dot Design Award” n “IF Product Design Award 2010” n “Design Award 2010” (Auto Bild) n “Plus X Award“ n “Golden Steering Wheel 2009” (Bild am Sonntag and Auto Bild) n “The Best Cars”, Super-sports Category (auto motor und sport) n “Auto Trophy 2009” and “Design Trophy” (Auto Zeitung) n “TOPauto 2010” (Motor-Informations-Dienst) n “Best IAA New Product 2009“ (AutoScout24) n “GT Car of the Year” (Top Gear, GB) Internet Auto Award 2010 (AutoScout24) n “Golden Classic Steering Wheel- Classic of the Future” (AUTO BILD KLASSIK)

Golf AsiA

w 83

showcase

King Of Cognacs

By Justine Moss iMages © e. RÈMy MaRtin CognaC

Louis Xiii is a unique bLend of 1,200 eauX-de-vie ,the youngest of which is 40 years oLd and the oLdest over 100 years oLd. they are aLL from the best parceLs of grande champagne

84

wGolf AsiA

N

o-one can stake a claim to being the sole creator of this King of Cognacs as it takes one century to make Louis XIII which was first created in 1874. The name is in tribute to the King of France Louis XIII, under whose reign the Remy Martin family took up residence in the Cognac area.

He was also the first monarch to recognise cognac as a category in its own right in the world of eaux-de-vie.

Louis XIII is a unique blend of 1,200 eauxde-vie (clear, colourless fruit brandy that is produced by means of fermentation and double distillation), the youngest of which is 40 years old and the oldest over 100 years old. They are all from the best parcels of Grande Champagne; the most prestigious of the six crus classed in the delimited region of Cognac, and are aged in century-old casks made from Limousin oak. While some distillers separate the wine from its lees (residual yeast after fermentation and aging) during the distillation process, Louis XIII is distilled with the lees to capture the opulence of the unique aromas.

Between January and March, each distiller presents its eaux-de-vie to Pierrette Trichet – Remy Martin’s Cellar Master – and to the Remy Martin tasting panel. Out of the 800 or 1000 samples tasted every year; only a

dozen or so will be chosen. The eaux-de-vie then enters a long ageing cycle in ‘tiercons’ barrels, which encourage the exchange between the air outside and the eaux-de-vie within.

The first nose of the exquisite Louis XIII is incredibly rich, combining floral aromas with spicy fragrances. Jasmine is a dominant

note, highlighting the saffron, then follows five Chinese spices, punctuated by the scents of Havana. The second nose blends the perfumes of flowers and exotic fruit. Tasting Louis XIII is an explosion of flavours on the tongue and palate, with hints of fig and sandalwood.

The original carafe with the rounded lines symbolises Louis XIII and legend has it that this bottle was acquired in 1850 by Paul-Emile Remy Martin I, from a peasant who supposedly found it on the site of the battle of Jarnac in 1569 between the Duke of Anjou and the Prince of Conde. Each carafe, which is decorated with fleur-de-lis, is individually numbered and hand blown.

Last year Remy Cointreau released their Louis XIII Rare Cask Cognac handcrafted in black crystal with only 786 bottles available worldwide.

The Heart Of Cognac Pierrette Trichet may be in charge of producing the next generation of Louis XIII de Remy Martin, yet incredibly she won’t ever get to taste the finished product. The reason?

This exquisite drop, which is referred to as the King of Cognacs, needs to age between 40 and over 100 years.

“My role is to prepare everything for the

Golf AsiA

w 85

showcase

next generation of cellar master.

Part of the function is to receive and manage this heritage properly from the previous cellar masters but you have to transmit it in the same way”, she says in a recent interview at Remy Martin in Cognac, France. “I also have to create and ensure that the quality is consistent enough and I have to produce the taste, preserve the heritage and make sure that there is enough stock for the next generation.

I need to choose the right parts to identify the future components for Louis XIII for my successor, and to make sure the next stock will be the most beautiful in the world.”

In 2003, Pierrette was chosen as the next Remy Martin Cellar Master – there have been only four in the past 100 years - in the process breaking down the barriers in this traditionally male-dominated industry by becoming the first woman Cellar Master at a major cognac producer.

It was a thrilling experience for her to be recommended to parent company Remy Cointreau’s Chairman 86

wGolf AsiA

Ms Dominique Heriard Dubreuil by Georges Clot, the then Cellar Master with whom she had a close working relationship with. “When Georges decided to retire he came to see me in the laboratory and he asked me what I would think about being Cellar Master. I hadn’t thought about this before but he said to me I had the potential. After that, I applied for the post”, she says matter-of-factly, adding, “Even though I had many years of experience it’s still a heavy responsibility when you accept the mission of cellar master at Remy Martin. It’s a huge responsibility for consumers worldwide and obviously your mission is to maintain this consistency.”

Pierrette, the daughter of a Gersregion wine grower, joined Remy Martin the same time as Mr Clot, after graduating in biochemistry and biological analysis at the University of Toulouse. “What I have to really respect is the knowhow which has been transmitted by the past Cellar Master. The role of the Cellar Master Golf AsiA

w 87

showcase is to transmit their knowhow and to respect the Remy Martin philosophy and vision, and then transmitting those values to the next generation”, she explains.

The 57-year-old mother of two has dedicated her whole career to this famed cognac producer, which was established back in 1724 and is still family-owned. Over the years, her role continually developed, with her being involved in the research and analysis of the cognacs and tasting at the Rémy Martin laboratory. In 1993, she joined the ‘tasting commission’ – the first female to do so - before being appointed assistant to the Cellar Master in 2000, and becoming very much hands-on in every stage of cognac production. That tasting commission now includes 13 men and five women all trained to respect the Remy Martin style and have some strict rules in place, one of which is to be a non-smoker as it can affect the judgement of the team.

“I work very closely with the technicians and growers at Remy Martin, and talk to suppliers about harvest quality”, she explains. “My role is always the same. Each year, I need the best grapes to make the best wine to make the best quality cognac.

The most important thing for me is that I get the best grapes, the best wine and the best possible eaux-de-vie to be aged.” She adds, “I think you also have to be rather curious and inventive by nature to do this job. The Cellar Master is not just the ‘guardian of the temple’ that we often imagine.

The role is above all that of visionary.

It is he – or she – who prepares the medium and long-term future of the company.” One thing Pierrette hasn’t taken up, however, is insurance for her nose or taste buds, preferring instead to exercise to stay healthy, drink lots of water, and to be extra careful not to fall ill during the winter months.

Other aspects of her role include, naturally, tasting the eaux-de-vie to

select the best put forward by the 1,500 winegrowing and distilling partners. Thousands of samples are sent to her and her team during each distillation campaign and they carry out a rigorous selection procedure based on taste and quality criteria.

Just as importantly, she also regularly tastes the eaux-de-vie that are ageing in the cellars in order to monitor their progress, which enables her to know precisely the status of the stocks.

Another element of tasting involves the number of the blends that she is producing. “From among the great diversity of our eaux-de-vie, I choose those that are ready to go into the various Rémy Martin cognacs and I perform the exact number of cuts required to reproduce the exact taste of each, year after year”, she says.

Another aspect is what she refers to as ‘wood management’ - the parallel management of stocks of eaux-devie and barrels for ageing. Rémy Martin holds the largest stock of Fine Champagne eaux-de-vie in the world, which “my roLe is age in around aLways the 200,000 oak same. each year, barrels, and in i need the best order to optimise grapes to make the ageing, they the best wine change the barrels to make the regularly over best quaLity the years, which

cognac."

88

wGolf AsiA

involves considerable logistics.

In order to produce the Louis XIII and the other range of Remy Martin cognacs, such as the XO Excellence, VSOP and Vintage 1988, only grapes from the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne regions are used, as they contain a unique type of chalk-flecked soil that reflects light and ripens the grapes. Remy Martin’s blend of Fine Champagne Cognac is produced exclusively from Grande Champagne & Petite Champagne, and made with a minimum of 50% Grande Champagne. Pierrette says, “We chose to use a traditional double distillation sur lies process in small Alambic stills to produce our eauxde-vie, a slow process that enables us to extract the optimum from the

aromas of the grape and the wine.

Then comes a long ageing phase in Limousin oak barrels, which enables the eaux-de-vie to develop a very broad range of flavours. Over the years, I carry out an enormous number of blends in order to perpetually maintain the inimitable taste of each quality of cognac.”

Fine Champagne Cognac is the only blend of two crus protected by the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, the French law of 1938 which officially recognises the complementary qualities of Grande Champagne & Petite Champagne to provide a unique quality of cognac.

Only 17% of the cognac shipped from the region is legally recognised as Fine Champagne Cognac (Source:

BNIC shipments 2004) and 80% of all Fine Champagne Cognac shipped from the region is produced by Rémy Martin.

While Pierrette enjoys indulging in wine and, of course, a glass or two of XO Excellence either neat or with ice matched with a slice of foie gras or a chocolate dessert, she feels that the way that cognac should be drunk should be up to the individual.

“When I blend a cognac, my hope is that the consumer will take pleasure from tasting it. It doesn’t matter whether it is neat, with ice, in a cocktail or during a meal with the starter or dessert. The cognacs that I create are all different and suit the widest range of people because they can be personalised.” a Golf AsiA

w 89

wellness

Our Association With Earth BY justine moss

A

ccording to Benson Yeo, founder and CEO of Destiny Empire, the Institute of Chinese Metaphysics, his book ‘The Book of Burial’, a translation of an Ancient Chinese Metaphysics classic text which was written around 5,000 years ago, the sensitive subject of ‘burial’ has an association with ‘Earth’ and what is inside Earth and it can also mean burying the dead.

“The energy movement outside earth is what the Chinese metaphysic world calls Heaven, and the other energy movement inside the earth is termed Man. These two types of energy are crossing the path through earth and without earth they cannot interact”, says Mr Yeo. “Understanding the earth is to understand how energy interacts and reacts, but most important it is the outcome.” He adds, “The Book of Burial is about teaching us that when a person dies, he/she must find a favourable earth with a good magnetic field to help them prosper for their next life, or help their descendants.”

Prosperous energy can be found in one’s journey derived from the 60 pillar cycle chart, according to Mr Yeo. When energy reaches earth, spring, summer autumn and winter are born which is termed a nature transformation. “Energy has no fixed location or direction, and north, east, south and west are only a guide. Energy has its own land and every piece of land contains

90

wGolf AsiA

certain energy”, he says, “And we must know which energy can be used and which cannot. There are beautiful landforms and we must know whether they can be useful to you!” For example, there are landed property, apartment and office building structures which can be filled with multiple obstacles.

Mr Yeo explains that the law of change is firstly derived from the influence of energy, and then earth forms with spring, summer, autumn and winter, with each season containing certain energy within for continuous change. “We cannot see what is hidden inside the earth. That’s why we still don’t know the many things inside earth, but if we understand how nature forms, in terms of the four seasons, then we can still find our prosperous energy. If you know which earth brings in the prosperous energy to the deceased – once the deceased are buried, all opportunities will be realised.”

The book of Burial also says that ‘we depend on our mother for our existence because she gave birth to us. And the form of our body depends on the energy level within our mother’s physical condition’.

“Sticking out forming of our bones from our mother’s stomach represents our roots (man), the forming of our flesh represents the branch (earth) and the day of delivery when we are part of the world represents ourselves (heaven)”, says Mr Yeo, continuing,

“Start with your own destiny which is a destination with a purpose. If you fall under the nature of soil, then you must go and find out how soil helps in growing nature. It needs the sun to make it happen and when you have reached the sun, you will have success without question. Your destiny can be a relentless desire that will drive you all out, that is why you need to understand your nature first. And your luck plays a very important role in your life.”

The Institute of Chinese Metaphysics runs a number of courses from its premises in Singapore. These include the basic and advanced Ba Zi, the Master 1 – The Infinite Treasure, the Master 2 – Heaven Instillation Treasure and the Feng Shui Professional. The Institute also runs a number of corporate training courses for companies such as The Art of War on Self Understanding, Choosing The Right People and The Internal Art Of War Within The Company. Mr Yeo’s Institute is also the only one in the world which teaches directly from these Classics in English. a Destiny Empire – Institute of Chinese Metaphysics A: 420 North Bridge Road, #03-01 North Bridge Centre, Singapore 188727 T: +65 6336 3397 F: +65 6336 4497 E: info@destinyempire.com W: www.destinyempire.com

Nature is FeNg shui aNd FeNg shui is about Nature

E

ver since civilized Man walked upon the Earth, he has tried to make sense of the world around him. He sees the turning of night into day, Winter into Spring, and the endless cycle of birth and death. He observes the movement of the stars in the heavens, as this knowledge guides his path across the land and seas.

He observes how the creatures of the sea follow the ebb and flow of the ocean currents, just as the ocean currents flow with the heating and cooling of the Earth’s crust.

As a flock of birds migrate in winter, so too, do all living things move and change according to the laws of nature. And just as the falling of tree leaves hails the beginning of a new autumn season, so too the humble farmer knows that the time for crop reaping is at hand.

For thousands of years, Man has lived in nature according to its laws. He has felt the dew in the morning air and knew when the Spring rain was to come. One look at the clouds, and he knows where the Summer breeze would be blowing from.

To the ignorant, such knowledge is as mysterious as magic, and many have grown to fear such “power”. Fear, pride and ignorance have caused a great many of Man’s mistakes, and the infinite knowledge of Nature had thus been hidden away from the people for thousands of years.

And even now, when the knowledge of Nature is finally made available for reading, few people can truly interpret the meaning behind the words within them.

My dear reader, do not be afraid to explore the ancient Chinese Classics Texts for yourselves, and at the same time do not be too quick to accept others’ explanations of them if you are not convinced. These Classics were initially written to deceive and confuse to those who do not understand Nature.

The study of Ba Zi and Feng Shui is not about what is going to happen but instead how are we going to handle the situation! The study cannot be generalized because life is precious. Every person is given a unique nature in their destiny since he is born.

Just like a property can make a person to become millionaire but not everyone stay in the same property can become millionaire? And what happen if you are already a millionaire! Why is it so? Because of different destiny and every destiny have different nature in it! That is because people have different objectives!

Too many people have tried to apply the concepts gleaned from Feng Shui and Destiny based on shallow and literal readings of the words, and have resulted in the unintentional harming of others.

With the Awareness we created in this magazine, I hope to finally share the true Feng Shui knowledge contained within Nature with you.

Open your heart and mind to this knowledge, and make it your own. This is the beautiful knowledge our ancient ancestors passed down to us. Use it to improve the World within, and the World outside of you.

Your Journey of Destination is now in your hands.

As with the unforgettable words of my Master, Mother Nature!.

Master Benson Yeo Founder CEO

Address: 420 North Bridge Road #03-01 North Bridge Centre Singapore 188727 Tel: +65 6336 3397 • Fax: +65 6336 4497 • Email: info@destinyempire.com • Website: www.destinyempire.com

www.golfasia.sg

Courses Destinations Reviews

golfing escapes

escape

A Golfing Sanctuary Clearwater Sanctuary uniquely conjures up memories of Malaysia’s tin-mining years in its architecture, which has been specially planned and designed to preserve its natural surroundings.

Water front living.

94

wGolf AsiA

Large expanse of water all round.

A regeneration of nature, Clearwater Sanctuary located in Perak Malaysia, encompasses over 1000 acres of the Kinta Valley, an old tin-mine that was transformed into a unique and breathtaking 27-hole golf resort. Designed by Tim Woolbank, Clearwater Sanctuary is embraced by 350 acres of shimmering lakes and is home to old majestic raintrees and a menagerie of birds such as kingfishers, quails, moorhens, storks, hawks and herons while the lakes teem with a myriad of tropical fishes, making the resort not only a sanctuary for golfers but to a rich variety of wildlife as well.

Clearwater Sanctuary uniquely conjures up memories of Malaysia’s tin-mining years in its architecture, which has been specially planned and designed to preserve its natural surroundings. It is also among the few golf resorts in Southeast Asia to join the Audubon International Programme, which promotes ecologically sound land management and conservation of natural surroundings as well as the protection and enhancement of flora, fauna and water resources Besides challenging golf, Clearwater Sanctuary boasts many other facilities and activities to keep golfers and non-golfers alike occupied. Facilities such as an Aquatic Driving Range, Tennis Academy, Tropical Lagoon complete with a poolside food podium, Fishing and Boating Club, Golf and Tennis Pro-Shops, a Children’s Centre, Lakeside Terrace and activities which range from nature walks to biking, canoeing, archery, BBQ areas and jogging tracks, guests are bound to find something that will interest them.

Tucked away for quiet comfort is Sri Damai

at Clearwater, a cosy cluster of 30 chalets, idyllically overlooking breathtaking lakes fringed with lush foliage. An ideal retreat in undisturbed peace, the Sanctuary Day Spa is a place where the body, mind and soul meet for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Today, Clearwater Sanctuary has earned the reputation of being a refuge of peace and quiet - the ideal vacation destination for both golfers and non-golfers, seeking both leisure and pleasure.

Clearwater SanCtuary boaStS many other faCilitieS and aCtivitieS to keep golferS and nongolferS alike oCCupied.

The Courses The Raintree Nine and Lakes Nine, are among the most challenging and picturesque courses in South East Asia, but for those looking for a less taxing round the Wetlands Nine is a unique Par-3 course, to hone those short irons and approach shots.

Golf AsiA

w 95

escape

The Raintree Nine, as the name suggests, has an abundance of Raintrees boarding the fairways providing cool and natural shade while at the same time posing a challenge to golfers, the final 4 holes are illuminated for late evening finishers.

The Lakes Nine winds its way around the bulk of the lakes at Clearwater and will test any golfer’s ability to focus on their shots rather than the water. Featuring Bermuda Greenless Park grass on fairways and tees, Bermuda Tifdwarf is used on the greens. To select a personal favourite hole here is tough as each hole is memorable.

The Wetlands Nine is a unique boutique Par 3 layout that is a suitable venue for beginners who seek a short and satisfying game or for golfers looking to hone their short game. A round here is no less satisfying as scenic lakes and natural foliage surround the course.

96

wGolf AsiA

Sri Damai Chalets The Sri Damai Chalets are all you need to relax and indulge in the complete Clearwater Sanctuary experience. Tucked away for quiet comfort, there are 30 cosy waterfront chalets, each adorned with modern comforts yet designed for total relaxation. This tranquil retreat, where kingfishers perch and hawks swoop overhead, is an escape to a lifestyle of leisure, whether for a family on vacation or for couples seeking a romantic weekend getaway.

Sanctuary Day Spa From a massage, scrub, facial treatment, body wrapping, natural baths, the Sanctuary Day Spa is the place for an after-golf treatment to relive tired muscles or to simply pamper the senses. The wide range of massages offered include Aromatherapy, Swedish, Sport, Traditional Urut, Sanctuary

Four Hand, Clearwater Signature, Herbal Compress, De-Stress Back Massage and even Pre-Natal and Post-Natal selections.

Other Activities At Clearwater Sanctuary, the wide range of sports and recreational activities that suit all ages and all levels of fitness makes it an ideal holiday destination for the entire family. n Fishing - If you are an avid angler, the Fishing Clubhouse, will be an ideal weekend retreat. Over 350 acres of shimmering lakes are teeming with fishes like the Striated Snakehead (Haruan), the Malaysian Tin Foil Barb (Lampam Jawa), Pacu, Giant Gorami (Kalui), Rohu and other rare species like the Temoleh. n Boating - Cruise the lakes at your own pace, be close up to the enchanting water lilies. n Camping - A perfect location for camping

with its natural surrounds. n Cycling – Choose from twin or single seat bicycles to explore the beautiful environment. n Tropical Lagoon - The terraced swimming pool comes with a relaxing Jacuzzi. While adults enjoy a dip or leisurely swim, the children will certainly have a splashing good time. n Bird Watching - Daily from 9am to 10am / 4pm to 5pm. Binoculars and guides available. n Indoor Tennis Court - The unique indoor tennis court is carpeted with Astroturf. With a smart resort-style canopy designed for all weather play and comfort. n Health & Fitness Centre - For the fitness

buffs, a state-of-the-art gymnasium to cater to your personal exercise regime. n Badminton Courts / Table Tennis / Basketball /Volleyball / Futsal n Archery n Children Centre - A haven for children, the centre is well equipped with computers, storybooks, board games, and children’s videos including toys for toddlers. n Ipoh Tour – Lasting about 3 hours, guests will visit historical buildings in the area, a Cave Temple, the Tin Mining Gallery, Tin Dredge and a guest favourite a Fruit Farm.

Clearwater Sanctuary is truly a unique offering, with beautiful golf courses and a

wide range of activities available, it is the ideal destination that will satisfy both golfers and non-golfers. For families, whether you choose to drive or fly (via a short flight on Firefly and transfer to the resort) it is very close to being the perfect family getaway. a Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort A: Lot 6019, Jalan Changkat Larang, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak, Malaysia T: 05-366 7433 (Resort) or 013-392 6938 (KL Office) F: 05-366 7434 or 03-7956 1453 E: cwsgolf@po.jaring.my W: www.cwsgolf.com.my

Indoor Tennis Court

Golf AsiA

w 97

SUBSCRIBE TO GOLF ASIA & RECEIVE A i-TECH VOICE ClIp 604 BlUETOOTH HEAdSET WORTH $88 Voiceclip 604’s unique clip design enables the base unit to be affixed to the user ‘s clothing.

The base unit and earpiece are magnetized, so they stick together when the user is not on a call, which prevents the earpiece from dangling. The multifunction button located on the microphone casing turns the unit on and off, pair the headset with other devices, and answer and end calls.

4 WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE

TITLEIST

910 DRIVERS ISSN 0219-0605

PERFORMANCE PRECISION

Why should you subscribe?

• Lucky Draw • Free Delivery • Golf Asia Privilege Card

Gifts sponsored by:

For Singapore subscribers, 1) Mail the form to: Golf Asia Subscription Department Regent Media Pte Ltd 3 Loyang Way Singapore 508719 2) Fax the form to us at +65 6543 3719 3) Call us at our subscription hotline: +65 6543 3681 4) Subscribe online at www.golfasia.sg For Malaysia subscribers, Mail the form to: Regent Media Sdn Bhd B-3-21, Section 8 Business Centre, Jalan Sungai Jernih 1, 8 Avenue, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan For Hong Kong subscribers, Mail the form to: Times Publishing (Hong Kong) Limited Attn: Ms Crystal Ho 10 / F, Block C, Seaview Estate, 2-8 Watson Road, North Point, Hong Kong

SUBSCRIPTION FORM

I want to subscrIbe!

m

PleaSe ticK accordingly Singapore m 1 year subscription, 12 issues for s$96 Malaysia m 1 year subscription, 12 issues for rM192 Hong Kong m 1 year subscription, 12 issues for HK$960 (usual price HK$1,152)

subscriber number:

Special Offer Ends at 31 December 2010 Profile gender age group m Male m below 30 m Female m 30 - 40 m 41 - 50 m above 50

occupation annual income m executive m below $50,000 m Management m $50,000 - $100,000 m Professional m $101,000 - $150,000 m businessman m above $150,000

PayMent detailS

m cheque

(For subscription expiring within 3 months)

cheque no :

PerSonal ParticularS

amount :

Please enclose a cheque made payable to Singapore : regent Media Pte Ltd Malaysia : regent Media sdn bhd Hong Kong : times Publishing (Hong Kong) Limited

title : First name : surname : nrIc :

Date of birth :

tel :

Mobile :

m credit card (Visa and Mastercard only - for Singapore) Debited amount under “GE Connections” will be reflected in your credit card statement for Singapore Subscribers.

name of cardholder :

email :

credit card no :

address :

expiry Date :

Postal code :

amount :

signature:

terMS & conditionS This subscription offer is non-refundable • Promotion is valid till the end of December 2010 • Welcome gifts are available while stocks last, and only applicable to readers residing in Singapore. (if applicable) • All prices are inclusive of GST and taxes • Please allow 4-6 weeks for processing • Subscription will be automatically renewed for your convenience, it will come with a renewal gift and a notification letter. Subscribers can terminate this service by written notice • Subscribers / Winners will be notified by post and welcome gifts / lucky draw prizes are to be collected at address stated on notification letter • Other terms and conditions apply.

98

wGOlf ASIA

Enjoy a world of golfing and lifestyle benefits and discounts with...

GOlf ASIA PRIvIlEGE CARd SUBSCRIBE nOW TO EnjOY! From discounts on green fees, golf apparel, equipment, to shopping and dining delights, you can look forward to a host of exciting promotions simply by flashing your Golf Asia Privilege Card.

For more discounts and privileges, log on to www.golfasia.sg

MERChAnT GUIdE FITNESS

FIGHT WORKS ASIA

• 15% off regular monthly All Access membership.

• 15% off regular personal training

sessions rate when signing up for 20 sessions package.

• 15% off regular merchandises at Fight Works pro-shop • Valid from June 2009 to June 2010.

• 565 MacPherson Road #04-00 Singapore.

Website: www.fightworksasia.com.sg

FLORIST

URBAN DESIRES

• 10% off for all Floral Accessories.

• 15% off for all Floral Services.

• 20% off for all Designer Bouquet.

• Terms & Conditions Apply.

• 15 Joan Road, Singapore.

Tel: 6356 4288 Website: www.urban-desires.com

GIFTS

DESERT DIAMONDS

• 15% discount for all members and

world wide postage service.

• Discounts applicable on purchase of second product.

• Not valid for purchase of custom made jewelry.

• Valid till 30 April 2011 • Tel: 9819 9497 (Monika) Email: monika@desertdiamondsco.com Website: www.desertdiamondsco.com

GOLF APPAREL GOLF CENTER

• 25% discount given to members.

• #02-15 Far East Shopping Centre Singapore.

GOLF COURSES IN MALAYSIA

HORIzON HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

• 20% discount on Green Fee for weekdays.

• 10% discount on Green Fee for Weekends/Public Holidays.

• Terms & Conditions apply.

• Proof of membership card

upon registration.

• Booking shall be done 7 days in advance • No.1, Jalan Eka, Horizon Hills, 79100, Nusajaya, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia.

• Tel: +607 232 3166 Ext:105

Fax: +607 232 3919 Email: general@hhgcc.com.my Website: www.hhgcc.com.my

PERMAS JAYA GOLF CLUB

• Pay only RM32 for 18 holes buggy fees for golfing.

• Valid for weekdays only.

• Tee-off before 12pm.

• Valid till 28 Feb 2011.

• 6 Jalan Permas Selatan, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Masai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

Tel: +607 388 7010

ORNA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

• 50% discount on Green Fee (18 holes) based on visitor rates (applicable for weekdays & weekends)

• 10% discount on accommodation

based on published rates.

• Subject to availability.

• Proof of membership card upon registration.

• Bt. 16 Jalan Gapam, Ladang Gapam 77200 Bemban, Melaka.

Tel: 606 521 0333

HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOMME GROOM PTE LTD

• One for one free for first time visitor.

• 15% discount for subsequent visit.

• Terms and conditions apply.

• Valid till 30 Oct 2011.

• 1 Selegie Road PoMo #03-08 Singapore 188306 Tel: 6336 2669 Email: hommegroom@gmail.com

PALMS SPA @ SOUTHLINKS COUNTRY CLUB

• 15% discount off Sports Massage,

Javanese Massage & Balinese Massage • (60 min/90 min) OR1-for-1 Sports Massage (90 min : valid Mon to Thur 11 am to 4 pm, exclude PH).

• Southlinks Country Club 1st Floor Jl. Gajah Mada 9 km Sekupang Sei Ladi, Batam, Indonesia.

Tel : (011-778) 324-128/168 ext. 251 Email : contact@essentiaspa.com.sg Website : www.essentiaspa.com.sg

UCARASPA

• Back Massage Trial offer $9 (20 mins/U.P $48).

• Ear Candling Trial Offer $9

Course (20 mins/U.P $48).

• 20% Discount on ala carte services.

• www.ucaraspa.com.sg • Bugis, 1 Liang Seah St #01-10

Liang Seah Place Singapore.

Tel: 6338 6028 • Bukit Merah, Blk 163 #02-3599 Bukit Merah Central Singapore Tel: 6377 6680 • Chinatown, Blk 531, 101 Upper Cross St #01-59 Hong Lim Complex Singapore.

Tel: 6533 4567 • Choa Chu Kang, Blk 253 Choa Chu Kang Ave 1 #01-18 Singapore.

Tel: 6766 2228 • Jurong West, Blk 494 Jurong West St 41 #01-136 Singapore.

Tel: 6560 7227 • Tampines (Hair Spa), Blk 201B Tampines St 21 #01-1077 Singapore.

Tel: 6787 8771 • West Coast (Hair Spa), Blk 727 Clementi West St 22 #01-244 Singapore.

Tel: 6773 9050

IMAGE AND ME

• 15% discount for colour analysis, style & bodyline analysis, personal shopping, wardrobe management.

• Not valid with promotions and Image Service Packages.

• Strictly by appointment only.

• Valid from May 2009 to Apr 2011.

• 84 King’s Drive Singapore.

Tel: 9296 5370 Email: Stephanie@imageandme.com Website: www.ImageAndMe.com

RESTAURANT & CAFE BIGFISH SEAFOOD GRILL AND RESTAURANT

• Free dessert of the Day with a minimum spending of S$50.

• Valid till May 2011.

• 85 Upper East Coast Road Singapore Tel: 6441-6920

DH NYONYA CAFÉ

• 10% off total spending of below RM100.

• 15% off total spending of above RM100.

• #A-G-23A, 8 Avenue Pusat Perdagangan Sect 8,Jln Sungai Jernih, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor,

Equipment Malaysia Tel: 6-03/7960-0287; 6-016/219-8287

PRIvATE AFFAIRS KITCHEN & BAR

• Complimentary glass of house pour, red/white wine for any set menu ordered

• Not valid for special selection wines

of the week or wines already on promotion.

• Not valid with other in house promotions or promotions by banks.

• 45 Joo Chiat Place Singapore.

Tel: 6440-0601

PANGKOR vILLAGE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

• 10% off food menu.

• Not valid during promotional period, beverages and tobacco.

• For dine-in only.

• Minimum spending of RM100 and above.

• 59, Jalan SS15/4C, Subang Jaya,

Selangor, Malaysia.

Tel: 6-03/5632-8348; 6-012/229-1159

TAKUMI TOKYO

• A free carafe of premium house

pour sake.

• Advice to make reservation in advance Opens daily for lunch from 12pm – 3pm, dinner from 5.30pm – 10.30pm.

• Sunday sake champagne brunch from 11.30am – 4pm.

• Valid from May 2009 to Apr 2011.

• No. 2 Keppel Bay Vista Marina at Keppel Bay, Singapore.

Tel: 6271 7414

RESORTS

vILLAS INDONESIA

• Stay for two nights and get the third night free for a villa with your own private pool in Seminyak Villa, Bali.

• Free third night stay only available on 31 July and from 27 August to

Dining 19 December 2010.

• Terms and conditions apply.

• Valid till 10 May 2011.

• 734 North Bridge Road

#02-02 Singapore.

Email: reservations@villasindonesia.com Website: www.villasindonesia.com

SPORTS RETAIL URBAN INLINE

• 15% off skates and skating

products, subject to availability, models and sizes.

• $20 off group and private skating lesson.

• $2 off for 2 hours skate rental.

• Not valid with other promotions, offers and discounts.

• Not exchangeable for cash.

• 902 East Coast Parkway, Playground@Big Splash #01-23 Singapore. Tel: 6444 5655 Email: info@urbaninline.com.sg Website: www.urbaninline.com.sg

TRAvEL

REvEPLANNER

• 15% off all travel planning services for first time customers

• Valid till 31 Oct 2011 • Contact RevePlanner for a free travel consultation

• Tel: 6409 3016

Email: info@reveplanner.com Website: www.RevePlanner.com

WINE RETAIL

BOOzE WINE SHOP

• 1-for-1 entry to Booze Wine Shop’s

weekly Six O’clock Club tasting sessions.

• Terms and conditions: Card must be presented before payment.

• Limited to 1 complimentary entry per cardholder.

• Not valid with other offers, promotions, discounts and privileges.

• 9 Raffles Place #01-11 Singapore.

Tel: 6532 6700

TO jOIn

GOlf ASIA PRIvIlEGE CARd as a participating merchant, email: marketing@regentmedia.sg GOlf ASIA

w 99

escape

Golf On The Rocks If you like your golf with a bit of adventure, Iceland combines great courses with some of the most amazing natural scenery found anywhere in the world.

Words by chris jones photography by paul severn, john wycherley

Rocky horror Oddur GC is typical of Icelandic courses, with fairways and greens next to lava.

100

wGolf AsiA

‘I

celand?’ asked one of my colleagues, incredulously. “Seriously? You’re going to Iceland, to play golf? Do they have any golf courses there? Hope your flight doesn’t get grounded...”

It’s a fair question. The country more famous for its glaciers than its fairways is a three-hour flight north from London. It’s closer to Greenland than Edinburgh. While many of us seek out the sun on a golf trip, heading for haunts like the Costa del Sol, the Algarve or Turkey, Iceland isn’t exactly on the radar when it comes to planning a break.

But how many active volcanos do you see around Malaga? Where are the midnight tee times near Faro? Where is Belek’s 100-foot waterfall cascading from a hole in a glacier?

If you like your golf experiences with a bit of adventure thrown in, Iceland must be close to the top of your list.

There are more than 65 courses in the country, 50 of which are nine-holers. But that hasn’t stopped the residents taking up the game in droves. There are 15,000 golfers registered in golf clubs in Iceland. According to a recent survey about 35,000 people play golf every year – 10% of the population.

The capital Reykjavik is the epicentre of life in the country, and it’s the obvious base for any golf trip. There are five 18-hole layouts within half-an-hour, plus plentiful accommodation, restaurants and day trips to see Iceland’s natural wonders.

The 30-minute drive from Keflavik airport

l o c at i o n

ICELAND Reykjavik

Golf AsiA

w 101

escape

‘Rocks the size of buses weRe being launched out, and landing a mile away’ to the city centre in our Jaguar XJ Portfolio – the only one in the country – reveals a surreal landscape of ancient lava fields and steamy fissures. “A tenth of the land is covered by lava”, says our guide, Ingolfur Stefansson, a typically rugged Icelander in a 4x4. Like many first-time visitors, I wanted to know more about the volcano which brought a continent to a standstill in the spring.

“Rocks the size of buses were being launched out of the volcano, and landing a mile away. And the noise! This constant 102

wGolf AsiA

dreaded rumbling, like a booming Hollywood sound effect,” says “Ingo”.

This is a land shaped by nature, and the golf potential is evident straight away as you drive past Keiler GC, an 18-hole “links” course right by the Atlantic, where fairways are framed by... you guessed it, lava.

Our early August visit precluded the chance to play golf through the night; midnight tee times pretty much stop by July (see separate story). But we do have an 8pm slot at Grafarholt Golf Course, one of Iceland’s top tracks.

The story behind the club can be traced to December 1934, when a few distinguished gentlemen gathered for a meeting in Reykjavik to establish the first golf club in

Iceland. It only became 18 holes in 1968, and now thanks to its quality and location just outside the capital, it boasts a healthy 2,500-strong membership.

It’s hard to pigeonhole the layout, as it’s a mixture of parkland, heather and... more lava. It rises and drops in the hills above Reykjavik, offering fabulous views over the landscape and towards the Snæfellsjökull glacier on Iceland’s north-west coast. There are some great holes, from the first with its elevated tee to the 7th, a picturesque little par 4 with a wooded hillside down the left side. The signature hole though is the 15th, a par 5 from another elevated tee, with water hazards down both sides of the fairway and a lake in front of the green. Two lost balls later

aWesOme sIGhts the geysers at strokkur and the huge waterfall at Gullfoss are must-see attractions. .

VOlCanO GOlf You can’t escape the lava hazards at Vestmanneyjar (main) or Grafarholt (top right).

and I was signing for a nine.

The vibe at Grafarholt was also typically Icelandic, and a clue as to why the golf boom here is gathering pace; it was a Tuesday evening, yet the course was full of couples playing after work; fourballs of teenagers going out after college; a double-deck floodlit range which was full... They may be latecomers to the game, but they know how to make it appealing to the masses.

The popularity of golf is only going to grow, especially as more of the tourists who come here for the geysers/waterfalls/glaciers/ volcanoes realise they can hire a set of clubs and enjoy a relaxed round.

We went the other way, though, as the tourist route beckoned before our second Golf AsiA

w 103

escape

COntInental dRIft On your left is north america; on your right is europe. thingveller is where they meet.

Play

golf t h g i n d i m

Circle, of the Arctic on the edge d July, n an tio ne ca Ju lo in ht Due to its -hour daylig teeing 24 by es e nc ag rie nt va Iceland expe ents take ad s sid pt re d ce ac an s se or ur so many visit out every co in ght. Just ab book them ld ou off at midni sh u yo ic Open, e times, but ct Ar e th in midnight te play at the u could also advance. Yo eyri Golf Club place at Akur ment was held s ke ta ch hi w urna . The first to visit end of June more details in 1986. For .is en op tic rc .a www

early evening tee time. There are no theme parks in Iceland; mother nature supplies all the entertainment you could ever want.

Since last April, the country has become synonymous with that volcano, which grounded flights across Europe. Now just about every visitor wants to see EyjafjallajĂśkull, and we were no different.

Thankfully the ash-laden eruptions seem to have abated, but there’s still steam clouds billowing from the crater, and it makes for one awe-inspiring sight as you catch your first glimpse of a breathing mountain.

104

wGolf AsiA

a melting glacial ice berg floating on the ice berg lagoon.

It was the first of several moments during a memorable day which simply took my breath away. The others? Watching geysers shoot 100 feet into the clear clue skies every eight minutes at Strokkur. The thunderous power of the Gullfoss waterfall, whose milky glacial waters power through a ravine before falling off the edge of a cliff to a chasm some 100 feet deep. Looking down into enormous “cracks” in the rock at Thingvellir, where unimaginable forces are ripping apart a fault line between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, letting you walk between two continents in one location.

It really is a land of staggering beauty and raw, natural power – two phrases you don’t associate with my ropey 12-handicapper swing, which was about to be tested to the limit at Oddur Golf Club.

The second course on our trip list was only opened in 1997, in the hills about

View of the Gullfoss waterfall from the southeast huita River.

Wild icelandic horses, roaming freely.

Golf AsiA

w 105

escape

USEFUL INFO GETTING THERE

Icelandair, Emirates, Qantas, Britsh Airways, SIA flies to Reykjavik with 1-2 stops in between. Flight times vary from 18 to 26 hour including stopovers, tickets start from US$1,875.

PLANNING A TRIP

Take a look at www.golficeland.org, which should have everything you need, including reviews and links to every course. It also provides information about tourist operators such as airlines, hotels, car rentals, coach operators, restaurants, sightseeing etc.

WHERE TO PLAY

GRAFARHOLT GC Green fees: US$67. Club hire available.

Website: www.grgolf.is ODDUR GC Green fees: From US$56 Website: www.oddur.is WESTmAN ISLAND GC Green fees: US$45 Website: www.gvgolf.is KEILIR GC (above) Green fees: From US$35.

Website: www.keilir.is

landakot Church of landakotskirkja.

WHERE TO STAY

Reykyavik is full of options, from budget hotels to five-star accommodation.

CLImATE 20 minutes outside Reykjavik. Like those courses you sometimes see in Hawaii, Oddur is carved out of lava. The unforgiving rock (which makes a real mess of a three-piece golf ball) lines every fairway and most of the greens. There’s little room for error, because you simply can’t hit out of the stuff.

The par 3s in particular are fabulous, with amphitheatre greens surrounded by rock on three sides.

Oddur is another great example of Icelandic golf catering for the biggest potential audience; there’s a thriving junior section, a public par-3 course next to the main course and a real sense of community among its players.

Our three-day flying visit took in many of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders and some of its top-rated courses, but a look 106

wGolf AsiA

out of our plane’s window as it took off for London revealed one other course I need to go back and play, which typifies the Icelandic experience.

Vestmanneyjar is the third oldest club in Iceland, founded in 1938 by 36 people on the Westman islands off the south coast. It started out as a nine-holer, but had plans to double that and build a new clubhouse until a catastrophic volcanic eruption in 1973 ruined the project, as ash covered the entire course... for four years.

When it finally reopened, nine more holes and a new clubhouse were finished, and the new course opened in 1994, with many holes by the water’s edge and others playing along the side of the volcano.

I don’t really need one, but this is a great excuse to return to Iceland. a

may to September is the best time to visit. midnight golf is best in June and July. With 9-12 days of rain a month throughout the summer on the west coast.

It’s wetter on the islands and drier in summer in the north.

CURRENCY

Iceland uses the Icelandic Kronur.

GEOGRAPHY

About half of Iceland’s landmass consists of a mountainous lava desert. Eleven per cent is covered by three large glaciers. It’s 178 miles from Greenland; the nearest point in Europe is Norway, 600 miles away.

Specially For Golf Asia Readers Only!

WIN!

a 2 Days/1 Night ClassiC ParaDise PaCkage worth s$3,400 iN total!

(Four sets to be given away)

Slow down your pace and tee off in the tranquil surroundings of the beautiful courses at Bintan Lagoon Resort, which offers not one but two championship golf courses designed by professional golfers Jack Nicklaus and Ian Baker-Finch.

Located just 55 minutes away from Singapore by ferry, Bintan Lagoon Resort and its golf courses are set amongst lush landscapes overlooking the sparkling waters of South China Sea.

Each 2 Days / 1 Night Classic Paradise includes: • Return ferry tickets on Economy class (Singapore-Bintan-Singapore) • One (1) night stay in Bintan Lagoon Resort in a Deluxe Room with breakfast • Two (2) 18-hole golf games at either Jack Nicklaus Sea View or Ian Baker-Finch Woodlands Course • Bintan Lagoon Resort Golf Souvenir

HOW TO WIN Simply answer the following question, fill in your details and mail the coupon to: Golf Asia / Bintan Lagoon Resort Promotion Regent Media Pte Ltd 3, Loyang Way, Singapore 508719 Or send an email to contests@golfasia.sg titled Golf Asia / Bintan Lagoon Resort Promotion with the correct answer. Please include your full name, IC number, contact number and address.

Ian Baker-Finch

Q: The two championship golf courses at Bintan Lagoon Resort were designed by professional golfers Jack Nicklaus and Ian Baker-Finch.

A:

True

False

Name: NRIC:

Date of Birth:

Address:

Mobile:

Email:

Closing date: 31st December 2010 Terms and CondiTions:

Jack

Nickla

us

This promotion is open to all except staff of Regent Media and sponsor • Prizes must be taken as provided and are not transferable or exchangeable for cash • Winners will be notified by post • The management reserves the right to replace items with those of similar value • Entry information may be used for future marketing and promotional purposes.

This promotion is brought to you by:

directory golf driving ranges in

singapore

Tel: (65) 6375 5503 Operating hours: 1000 – 2200 hrs Mon; 0700 – 2200 hrs Tues – Sun

Email: egcgolf@singnet.com.sg, No. of Holes: 9

Email: enquiry@mbgc.com.sg, No. of Holes: 18

JURONG COUNTRY CLUB

NATIONAL SERVICE RESORT & COUNTRY CLUB

ARENA COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

511 Upper Jurong Road, Singapore 638366 (Opposite SAFTI Military Institute) Tel: (65) 6897 9997 Operating hours: 1000 – 2200 hrs Mon – Fri; 0900 – 2200 hrs Weekends and Public Holidays

LAGUNA NATIONAL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

ASIAN GOLF ACADEMY DRIVING RANGE

80 Rhu Cross, Singapore 437437 Tel: (65) 6345 7788 Operating hours: 1200 - 2300 hrs Mon; 0700 - 2300 hrs Tues - Sun

601 Sin Ming Avenue #03-02, Singapore 575734 Tel: (65) 6456 6653 Operating hours: 0700 – 0100 hrs daily

11 Laguna Golf Green, Singapore 488047 Tel: (65) 6541 0270 Operating hours: 0700 – 2300 hrs daily MARINA BAY GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE

BUKIT BATOK DRIVING RANGE

NATIONAL SERVICE RESORT & COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

2 Bukit Batok West Avenue 7, Singapore 659003 Tel: (65) 6567 4800 Operating hours: 0700 – 2300 hrs daily

10 Changi Coast Walk, Singapore 499739 Tel: (65) 6542 8288 Operating hours: 1600 – 2200 hrs Mon; 0700 – 2200 hrs Tues – Sun

EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE

ORCHID COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

Upper Seletar Reservoir, Mandai Road Track 7 Singapore 779384 Tel: (65) 6556 0600 Operating hours: 1300 – Midnight Mondays; 0700 – Midnight Tues – Sun FAIRWAY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

11 Japanese Garden Road, Singapore 619229 Tel: (65) 6261 1211 Operating hours: 0700 – 2300 daily GREEN FAIRWAYS DRIVING RANGE

Bukit Timah Race Course, off Eng Neo Road Singapore 289631 Tel: (65) 6462 3833 Operating hours: 0700 – 2300 hrs daily JURONG COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

9 Science Centre Road, Singapore 109918 Tel: (65) 6560 5655 Operating hours: 0700 – 2300 hrs Mon, Wed – Sat; 1200 – 2300 hrs Tues; 0700 – 2130 hrs Sun KEPPEL CLUB DRIVING RANGE

Bukit Chermin Road, Singapore 109918 Available at all major Retail Outlets, Petrol Stations, Bookstores and Newsstands.

A Complete Golfing Lifestyle Magazine! www.golfasia.sg

1 Orchid Club Road, Singapore 769162 Tel: (65) 6755 9811 Operating hours: 0730 – Midnight daily RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

450 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore 639932 Tel: (65) 6861 7655 Operating hours: 1200 – 2100 hrs Mon; 0700 – 2100 hrs Tues – Sun SELETAR COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

101 Seletar Club Road, Singapore 798273 Tel: (65) 6484 0801 Operating hours: 1400 – 2200 hrs Mon – Fri; 0700 – 2200 hrs Sat & Sun SEMBAWANG COUNTRY CLUB DRIVING RANGE

249 Sembawang Road Singapore 758352 Tel: (65) 6751 0320 Operating hours: 0700 – 2200 hrs daily WARREN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

81 Choa Chu Kang Way, Singapore 688263 Tel: (65) 6586 1244 Operating hours: 1400 – 2200 hrs Mon; 0700 – 2200hrs Tues - Sun golf courses in

singapore CHANGI GOLF CLUB

20 Netheravon Road, Singapore 508505 Tel: (65) 6545 5133 Fax: (65) 6545 2531 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $50, Visitors: $80 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $80, Visitors: NA. No. of Holes: 9 EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE

Upper Seletar Reservoir, Mandai Road Track 7, Singapore 779384 Tel: (65) 6556 0600 Fax: (65) 6556 0680 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $20.80, Visitors: $31.20 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $31.20, Visitors: $52.00 108

wGolf AsiA

9 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609078 Tel: (65) 6560 5655 Fax: (65) 6567 1900 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $60, Visitors: $90 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $120, Visitors: $180 Website: www.jcc.org.sg, Email: enquiry@jcc.org.sg No. of Holes: 18 KEPPEL CLUB

Bukit Chermin Road, Singapore 109918 Tel: (65) 6375 5503 Fax: (65) 6278 1448 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $110, Visitors: $138 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $168, Visitors: $198 Website: www.keppelclub.com.sg, No. of Holes: 18 LAGUNA NATIONAL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

11 Laguna Golf Green, Singapore 488047 Tel: (65) 6542 6888 Fax: (65) 6542 1132 Green Fees (Weekdays) Classic: $130, Masters: $150 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Classic: $200, Masters: $230 Website: www.lagunagolf.com.sg Email: golf@lagunagolf.com.sg, No. of Holes: 36 ORCHID COUNTRY CLUB

1 Orchid Club Road, Singapore 769162 Tel: (65) 6755 9811 Fax: (65) 6752 7147 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $85, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $125, Visitors: NA Website: www.orchidclub.com Email: feedback@orchidclub.com, No. of Holes: 27 RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB

450 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore 639932 Tel: (65) 6861 7649 Fax: (65) 6861 5293 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $60, Visitors: $100 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $120, Visitors: $200 Website: www.rcc.org.sg, No. of Holes: 36 MARINA BAY GOLF COURSE 80 RHU CROSS SINGAPORE 437437

Tel: (65) 6345 7788 Fax: (65) 6348 1923 Green Fees (Weekday) Citizens/PRs: $40 Visitors: $80 Green Fees (Weekday/Public Holiday) Citizens/PRs: $80 Visitors: $160 Website: www.mbgc.com.sg

10 Changi Coast Walk, Singapore 499739 Tel: (65) 6540 8500 Fax: (65) 6545 6525 Green Fees (Weekdays) Sign in Guest: $115.50 (Citizen) / $123.90 (Non-Citizen) Visitor: $123.90 (Citizen) / $147 (Non-Citizen) (Inclusive of day fees and buggy fees) Green Fees (Weekend/Public Holiday) Sign in Guest: $174.30 (Citizen) / $228.90 (Non-Citizen), Visitor: $197.40 (Citizen) / $252 (Non-Citizen) (Inclusive of day fees and buggy fees) Website: www.nsrcc.com.sg Email: golfing@nsrcc.com.sg, No. of Holes: 27 SELETAR COUNTRY CLUB

101 Seletar Club Road Singapore 798273 Tel: (65) 6486 0801 Fax: (65) 6481 0311 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $90, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $150, Visitors: NA. No. of Holes: 18 SEMBAWANG COUNTRY CLUB

249 Sembawang Road (enter via Toranto Road) Singapore 758352 Tel: (65) 6751 0320 Fax: (65) 6755 8418 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $72.10, Visitors: $113.30 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $97.85, Visitors: $139.05 Website: www.sembawanggolf.org.sg, No. of Holes: 18 SENTOSA GOLF CLUB

27 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa Singapore 099892 Tel: (65) 6275 0022 Fax: (65) 6275 0005 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $157.50, Visitors: $231 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $231, Visitors: $315, No. of Holes: 36 SINGAPORE ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB

Bukit Location: 240 Sime Road, Singapore 288303 Tel: (65) 6466 2244 Fax: (65) 6466 9109 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $100, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $200, Visitors: NA. Website: www.sicc.org.sg, Email: sicc@pacific.net.sg.

No. of Holes: 36 Island Location: 180 Island Club Road, Singapore 578774

Tel: (65) 6459 2222 Fax: (65) 6458 3796 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $100, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $200, Visitors: NA Website: www.sicc.org.sg, Email: sicc@pacific.net.sg.

No. of Holes: 36 SIngapore Turf CLuB GREEN FAIRWAYS

Eng Neo Avenue, Singapore 289631 Tel: (65) 6468 7043 Fax: (65) 6468 7233

Singapore 486799 Tel: (65) 6542 4256 Fax: (65) 6543 0946 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $150.00, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $260.00, Visitors: NA Website: www.tmcc.org.sg, No. of Holes: 18 81, Choa Chu Kang Way, Singapore 688263 Tel: (65) 6586 1244 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $100, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $170, Visitors: NA. No. of Holes: 18

malaysia

AUSTIN HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

garden Course: 25 Changi Coast Road, Singapore 499803 Tel: (65) 6542 3040 Fax: (65) 6542 9294 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $180, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $300.00, Visitors: NA Website: www.tmcc.org.sg, No. of Holes: 18

Lot PTD 5806, Taman Mount Austin, PO Box 155, POS Malaysia Majidee, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia Tel: (607) 352 4300 Fax: (607) 353 8500 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM106, Visitors: RM136 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM201, Visitors: RM231 Website: www.austinhillsgolf.com, No. of Holes: 36 BERJAYA HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

TAMPINES COURSE: 153 ECP XILIN AVENUE

Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM83, Visitors: RM93 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM163, Visitors: RM183 No. of Holes: 36 Website: www.berjayahills.com

WARREN GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

golf courses in

TANAH MERAH COUNTRY CLUB

Lebuhraya Karak, 28750 Bukit Tinggi, Bentong, Pahang.

Tel : +09 288-8890 Fax : +09 288-8832

KM 48, Persimpangan Bertingkat

CAMERON HIGHLANDS GOLF CLUB

39000 Tanah Rata, Cameron Highlands, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (605) 491 1126 Fax: (605) 4911 728 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM52.50 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM84, No. of Holes: 18 DAIMAN GOLF BERHAD 18 Jalan Pesona Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru Tel: (607) 351 6813 Fax: (607) 351 6823 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM100 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM150 Website: www.daiman.com.my Email: daiman18@daiman.com.my, No. of Holes: 18 DAMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Damai Beach, Jalan Santubong P.O. Box B203, 93862 Kuching, Sarawak Malaysia Tel: (60) 82-846088 Fax: (60) 82-846044 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM150,

Visitors: RM120 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM180, Visitors: RM144 Website: www.damaigolf.com.my, No. of Holes: 18 DAMAI LAUT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Hala Damai 2, Jalan Damai Laut, Teluk Senangin 32200 Lumut, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia Tel: (605) 685 9333 Fax: (605) 618 1018 Email: cm_dlgcc@swissgarden.com Website: www.swissgarden.com Green Fees (Weekdays) RM180++ Green Fees (Weekends) RM250++ No. of Holes: 18 DESARU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

P.O. Box 57, 81907 Kota Tinggi, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia Tel: 07-822 1187 Fax: 07-822 1855 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM88 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM153 Website: www.desarugolfclub.com.my, No. of Holes: 18 GLENMARIE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

No. 1 Jalan Glenmarie, Off Jalan Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa, Subang P.O. Box 368, Jalan Sultan, 46740 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: 03-703 9090 Fax: 03-703 2728 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM120, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM220, Visitors: NA Website: www.glenmarie.com.my

Golf AsiA

w 109

directory Email: info@glenmarie.com.my, No. of Holes: 36 HORIzON HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

No. 1 Jalan Eka, Horizon Hills, 79100, Nusajaya, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia Tel: (07) 232 3166 Fax: (07) 232 3919 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM94.50, Visitors: RM126 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM168, Visitors: RM231 Website: www.hhgcc.com.my Email: general@hhgcc.com.my No. of Holes: 18 KOTA PERMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

No. 1 Jalan 31/100A, Section 31, Kota Kemuning, 40460 Shah Alam, K.L. Tel: 03-5122 3700 Fax: 03-5122 3702 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM105, Visitors: RM126 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM157.50, Visitors: NA Website: www.kotapermai.com.my, No. of Holes: 18 KUALA LUMPUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

No. 10 Jalan 1/70D, off Jalan Bukit Kaira 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: (603) 2093 1111 Fax: (603) 2093 3393 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM220+ (9 Holes), RM400+ (18 Holes) Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM320+ (9 Holes), RM600+ (18 Holes) *All rates are subject to 5% Tax. Website: www.klgcc.com KUKUP GOLF RESORT

Pekan Penerok, 82300 Pontian, Johor, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 696 0952 Fax: (607) 696 0961 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM50, Visitors: RM50 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM100, Visitors: RM100, No. of Holes: 18 LANGKAWI GOLF CLUB

Jalan Bukit Malut, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (604) 966 6187 Fax: (604) 966 7195 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM150, Visitors: RM105 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM150, Visitors: RM128, No. of Holes: 36 PANTAI LAGENDA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Lot 877, Kampung Kuala Pahang, 26690 Pekan, Bandar DiRaja, Pahang Darul Makmur Tel: (609) 425 1658 Fax: (609) 425 1660 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM75, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM95, Visitors: NA, No. of Holes: 18 LANJUT GOLDEN BEACH RESORT

Kampung Lanjut, 26800 Kuala Rompin, Pahang Darul Makmur, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (609) 414 5113 Fax: (609) 414 5112 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM50, Visitors: RM70 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM70, Visitors: RM100, No. of Holes: 18 OCTVILLE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PTD 90038 Mukim Plentong, 81750 Masai, 110

wGolf AsiA

Johor, Malaysia.

Tel: 607-387 3000 Fax: 607-387 4629 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM100, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM160, Visitors: NA, No. of Holes: 18 PALM RESORT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Jln Persiaran Golf, Off Jln Jumbo, 81250, Senai, Johor, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 599 6222 Fax: (607) 599 6222 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM100, Visitors: RM150 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM230, Visitors: RM280 Website: www.palmresort.com.

No. of Holes: 54

Tel: (6082) 617 209 Fax: (6082) 617 209 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM31.50 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM52.50, No. of Holes: 18

Tel: (084) 801119 Fax: (084) 801120 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM52, Visitors: RM105 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM84, Visitors: RM105, No. of Holes: 18

PULAI SPRINGS RESORT

STARHILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

20 km Jalan Pontian Lama, 81110 Pulai, Johor, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 521 2121 Fax: (607) 521 1818 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM105, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM210, Visitors: NA Website: www.pulaisprings.com Email: psrb@tm.net.my, No. of Holes: 36

6.5 km Jalan Kampung Maju, Jaya Kempas Lama, 81300 Skudai, Johor, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 556 6325 Fax: (607) 556 7327 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM180, Visitors: RM280 Green Fees (Sunday/Public Holiday PM) Guest: RM120.00, Visitors: RM220 Website: www.starhillgolf.com.my, No. of Holes: 36

ROYAL JOHOR COUNTRY CLUB penang Turf CLuB (goLf SeCTIon)

Jalan Batu Gantong, 10450 Penang, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (604) 226 6701 Fax: (603) 226 6535 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM50, Visitors: RM30 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM80, Visitors: RM40 Website: http://penangturfclub.com Email: pntc@tm.net.my. No. of Holes: 18 PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

10 - C Jalan Bumi Hijau 3, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 354 9999 Fax: (607) 355 7400 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM100, Visitors: RM130 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM130, Visitors: RM210 Website: www.ponderosagolf.com Email: pgcc@tm.net.my. No. of Holes: 18 PORESIA COUNTRY CLUB

Km 36, Mukim Tanjung Kupang, 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor Bahru, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 510 2032 Fax: (607) 510 1813 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM100, Visitors: RM150 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM170, Visitors: RM260, No. of Holes: 36

3211 Jalan Larkin, 80200 Johor Bahru, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 223 3322 Fax: (607) 224 0729 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM105, Visitors: RM210 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM84, Visitors: RM160, No. of Holes: 18 ROYAL PERAK GOLF CLUB

Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 31400 Ipoh, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (605) 547 3266 Fax: (605) 547 6688 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM105, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM157.50, Visitors: NA, No. of Holes: 18 SEBANA GOLF & MARINA RESORT

Lot PTD 2940/92/93/93 & 2931, Mukim Pengerang, daerah Kota Tinggi, 81620 Kota Tinggi, Johor Darul Takzim.

Tel: 607-826 6655 Telefax : 607-826 6622 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM99, Visitors: RM120 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM128, Visitors: RM180 Website: www.sebanacove.com Email: sebanacove@pacific.net.sg, No. of Holes: 18 SAUJANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PORT DICKSON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

8 km, Jalan Pantai, 71050 Si Rusa, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia Tel: 606-647 3123 Fax: 606-647 4949 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM31.50 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NS, Visitors: RM73.50 Website: www.pdgolf.com.my Email: pdgcc@po.jarring.my.

No. of Holes: 18

Saujana Resort, Seksyen U2 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: (603) 746 1466 Fax: (603) 746 2316 Green Fees (Weekdays) Visitors: RM280 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Visitors: RM400 Website: www.saujana.com.my Email: golf@saujana.com.my, No. of Holes: 36

SUTERA HARBOUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel: (6088) 318 888 Fax: (6088) 252 211 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM161, Visitors: RM230 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM206.50, Visitors: RM295.5 Website: www.suteraharbourclub.com Email: sutera@suterah.po.my, No. of Holes: 27 TANJONG PUTERI GOLF RESORT

P.O. Box 117, 81707 Pasir Gudang, Johor, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (607) 271 1888 Fax: (607) 271 1333 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM124, Visitors: RM155 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM187, Visitors: RM260 Website: www.tanjongputeri.com, No. of Holes: 54 TEMPLER PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

KM21, 21 Jalan Rawang 48000 Rawang, K.L. Tel: (603) 6091 9111 Fax: (603) 6091 9807 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM120, Visitors: RM170 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM180, Visitors: RM250.

No. of Holes: 18 TIOMAN ISLAND GOLF CLUB

Tioman Island, P.O. Box 486807 Mersing, Johor, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (609) 419 1000 Fax: (609) 419 1718 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM56, Visitors: RM84 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM70, Visitors: RM105.

No. of Holes: 18

SERENDAH GOLF LINKS

Lingkaran Sultan Hishamuddin, Selat Klang Utara, 42000 Port Klang, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (603) 376 5000 Fax: (603) 376 1324 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM50 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM100, No. of Holes: 18

Persiaran Meranti Selatan, 38 km Jalan KL/Ipoh, 48200 Serendah, Ulu Selangor, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Peninsula Malaysia Tel: (603) 601 1077 Fax: (603) 601 2611 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM84 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NA, Visitors: RM126, No. of Holes: 18

PRISON GOLF CLUB

SIBU GOLF CLUB

Km 10, Jalan Penrissen, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak, East Malaysia

Mile 10.1/2, Oya Road PO Box 514 Sibu 96007, Sarawak, Malaysia

PORT KLANG GOLF RESORT

DALIT BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Pantai Dalit, P.O Box 578, 89208, Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysian Borneo Tel: (6088) 791188 Fax: (6088) 791128 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM90, Visitors: RM290 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM112, Visitors: RM290 Website: www.shangri-la.com.

No. of Holes: 18 BORNEO GOLF RESORT BERHAD

Km 69 Papar-Beaufort Highway, 89700

Bongawan, Sabah, Malaysian Borneo Tel: (087) 861 888 Fax: (087) 861 333 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM105, Visitors: RM256.45 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: RM150, Visitors: RM371.45 Website: www.borneogolf.com, No. of Holes: 18

Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $76, Visitors: $107 Website: www.palmspring.com.sg, No. of Holes: 27

Tel: 65 – 6223 3223 Fax: 62-770-697300, 65-6543-1705 Green fees (weekdays) - $115 nett Green fees (weekends) - $168 nett Website: www.bintanlagoon.com Email: reservation@bintanlagoon.com, No. of Holes: 36

Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: NA, Visitors: NA Website: www.phuketcountryclub.com Email: bookings@phuketcountryclub.com, No. of Holes: 27 golf courses in

bali

LAGUNA BINTAN GOLF CLUB

TERING BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Jalan Hang Lekiu Km. 4, Nongsa Batam Tel: (65) 6471 0555 Fax: (65) 6471 2243 Tel: (62 778) 762 818 Fax: (62 778) 761 801 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $40, Visitors: $55 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $68, Visitors: $85 Website: www.golfers.com.sg/teringbay Email: queens@golfers.com.sg, No. of Holes: 18

Site A4, Lagoi, Bintan Island, Indonesia Tel: 011-770 693188 Fax: 011-770 693288 Tel: (065) 6849 5885 Fax: (065) 6462 6848 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $30, Visitors: $60 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $60, Visitors: $120 Website: www.banyantree.com Email: golf-bintan@banyantree.com, No. of Holes: 18

NIRWANA BALI GOLF CLUB

Jl. Raya Tanah Lot Kediri Tabanan 82171 Bali Telephone: + 62 361 815 960 Fax: + 62 361 815 961/2 Website: www.nirwanabaligolf.com Email: reservation@nirwanabaligolf.com Holes: 18

THE LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

BATAM HILLS GOLF RESORT

BALI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Lot 1302, Kebun Sedenak, PO Box 11 81000 Kulai, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia Tel: 02 - 07 - 6524388 Fax: 02 - 07 - 6526388 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: RM105, Visitors: RM157.50 Green Fees (Weekends / Public Holiday) Guest: RM210 (am), RM157.50 (pm) Visitor: RM262.50 (am), RM210 (pm) Buggy & Caddy Fees: RM42 per golfer Website: www.legends-resort.com Email: enquiry@lgcr.po.my, No. of Holes: 18

Jalan Dipone Goro, Batam, Indonesia Tel: (62 778) 391 901 Fax: (62 778) 391 904 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $30, Visitors: $60 Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $70, Visitors: $130, No. of Holes: 18

Nusa Dua P.O.Box 12 Nusa Dua - Bali Telephone: +62-361 771-791 Fax: +62-361 771-797 Website: www.baligolfandcountryclub.com Email: reservation@baligolfandcountryclub.com Holes:18 hole Championship course Green Fees: Prepaid multiple rounds packages available

RIA BINTAN GOLF CLUB

Jl. Perigi Raja Site A-11 Lagoi, North Bintan Tel: 62-770-692868 Fax: 62-770-692837 Tel: 65-6433 7714 Fax: 65-6337 6668 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $120 Green Fees (Weekends) Guest: $173 Website: www.riabintan.com Email: booking@riabintan.com, No. of Holes: 27 golf courses in

phuket

golf courses in

batam

LAGUNA PHUKET GOLF CLUB SOUTHLINKS COUNTRY CLUB

INDAH PURI GOLF RESORT

Jalan Tr. Sutami, Patam Lestari 24922 Sekupang Batam Tel: (65) 6270 0533 Fax: (65) 6271 9036 Indah Puri Resort.

No. of Holes: 18 18-hole Golfing Rates (Green fees, Buggy (twin sharing) & Caddy) Weekday Weekend Member S$50 S$50 Member’s Guest S$76 S$96 Visitor S$100 S$120

Jalan Gajah Mada 9 km Skp, Sei Ladi Sekupang, Batam, Indonesia Tel: 62-778-323 837 Fax: 62-778-323 288 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $68.25, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: $110.25, Visitors: NA Website: www.southlinksgolf.com Email: slccfad@indosat.net.id, No. of Holes: 18 golf courses in

bintan

34 Moo 4 Srisoonthorn Road Cherngtalay, Amphur Talang, Phuket 83110, Thailand Tel: 66 076 270-991/2 Fax: 66 076 324-351 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: US$50, Visitors: NA Green Fees (Weekends/Public Holiday) Guest: US$58, Visitors: NA Website: www.laguna-phuket.com Email: golf@lagunaphuket.com, No. of Holes: 18 BLUE CANYON COUNTRY CLUB

165 Moo 1 Thepkasattri Road Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand Tel: (076) 328-088 Fax: (076) 328-068 Green Fees (Weekdays & Weekends) Canyan Course: Guest: 3,600 Baht, Visitors: 5,300 Baht Lake Course: Guest: 2,400 Baht, Visitors: 3,300 Baht Website: www.bluecanyonclub.com Email: reservation@bluecanyonclub.com, No. of Holes: 36

PALM SPRINGS GOLF & BEACH CLUB

Jalan Hang Lekiu, Nongsa, P.O. Box 616, Batam, Indonesia Tel: (62 778) 761 222 Fax: (62 778) 761 223 Tel: (65) 6276 1027 Fax: (65) 6276 1028 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: $44, Visitors: $76

LOMBOK GOLF KOSAIDO COUNTRY CLUB

Brawijaya No.98, Jl Tanjung Lombok Barat, West Nusa Tenggara Jl. Sire P.O.Box 1038 Lombok Telephone: +62 370 640 137/38 Fax: +62 370 640 136 Website: N/A Email: sales@lombokgolfkosaido.com Holes: 18 golf courses in

vietnam

CHILINH STARGOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Chi Linh District, Sao Do town of Hai Duong province Telephone: +84-4 771 9006 Fax: +84-4 771 9007 Website: www.chilinhstargolf.com.vn Email: booking@chilinhstargolf.com.vn Holes: 36 Green Fees: Weekday Green Fee 18 Holes: Visitor - US $70, Member’s Guest: US $30 Weekend & Public Holiday Green Fee 18 Holes Visitor - US $90, Member Guest - US $50 Non-member caddie Fee: 9 Holes - US $10, 18 Holes - US $15 Rental Fees (per 18 Holes Use): Non-member golf cart - US $25

PHUKET COUNTRY CLUB BINTAN LAGOON RESORT

Jalan Indera Segara Lagoi, Bintan Utara Indonesia Tel: 62-770-691366, 62-770-691388

80/1 Vichitsongkram Road Katu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand Tel: (076) 321 038-41 Fax: (076) 321-721 Green Fees (Weekdays) Guest: 2,350 Baht, Visitors: NA

OCEAN DUNES GOLF CLUB

1 Ton Duc Thang Phan Thiet Telephone: +84 62 823 366 Fax: +84 62 821 511 Website: www.phanthietresorts.com Golf AsiA

w 111

directory Email: ODGC@VietnamGolfResorts.com Holes: 18

Email: alpine@alpinegolfclub.com Holes: 18

DALAT PALACE GOLF CLUB

Phu Dong Thien Vuong Dalat City Telephone: +84 63 821 201 Fax: +84 63 824 325 Email: nnguyen@hcm.vnn.vn , Green Fees: Unlimited golf: US$75 Holes: 18

BEIJING COUNTRY GOLF CLUB

TAM DAO GOLF & RESORT

Hop Chau Commune Tam Dao District Vinh Phuc Province, Viet Nam Telephone: +84 211 896 554 / 211 537 142 Fax: +84 211 537 141 Website: www.tamdaogolf.com Email: Marketing@tamdaogolf.com Holes: 18 VIETNAM GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Lai Thieu Townlet Long Thanh My Ward District 9, Ho Chi Minh City Telephone: +84 8 2800 103 Fax: +84 8 2800 127 Website: www.vietnamgolfcc.com Email: golf@vietnamgolfcc.com Holes: 36

AMATA SPRING GOLF CLUB

700/5 Moo 6 Nongmaidang, Muang District Chonburi 20000Bangkok 10230 Telephone: (038) 468-888, (038) 468-692-5 Fax: (038) 468-808 Website: www.amataspring.co.th Email: info@amataspring.co.th Holes: 18 golf courses in

china

golf courses in

thailand

THAI COUNTRY CLUB

88 Moo 1 Bangna-Trad Rd. Km 35.5 Tambol Pimpa Amphur Bangpakong Chacheongsao 24180 Telephone: (038) 570234-46, (02) 651-5300-6 Fax: (038) 570225, (02) 651-5307 Website: www.thaicountryclub.com Email: inquiry@thaicountryclub.com Holes: 18 MISSION HILLS GOLF RESORT & SPA

195 Moo 4, Pla Khlok, Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83000 Tel: +66 76 310 888 Fax: +66 76 310 899 Website: www.missionhillsphuket.com Email: reservation@missionhillsphuket.com Holes: 27 LOCH PALM GOLF CLUB

38 Moo 5 Vichitsongkram Rd., Kathu District, Phuket 83210 Telephone: (076) 321-929-34 Fax: (076) 321-927-8 Website: www.lochpalm.com Email: info@lochpalm.com Holes: 36 NAVATANEE GOLF CLUB

22 Navatanee Rd, Kwaeng Kannayao, Khet Kannayao, Bangkok, 10230 Telephone: (02) 376-1693-5 Fax: (02) 376-1685 Website: www.navatanee.com Email: info@navatanee.com Holes: 18 ALPINE GOLF CLUB

99 Moo 9 Bang Khan Sathani Vitthayu Rd. Tambol Klong 5 Amphur Klongluang Pathumthani 12120 Telephone: (02) 577-3333 Fax: (02) 577-7102 Website: www.alpinegolfclub.com 112

wGolf AsiA

27-hole - Visitor: normal RMB 900 / holiday RMB 1200 36-hole - Visitor: normal RMB 850 / holiday RMB 1400 Caddie: 9 – 18 holes RMB100; 27-hole RMB 150 & 36-hole RMB 200

MEISHI MAYFLOWER INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB

88 West Binhai Road, Haikou City, Hainan Province PRC Tel: +86 898-68718888 Fax: +86 898-68718992 Website: www.meishigolf.com Email: meishi@meishigolf.com Holes: 18-hole international standard Course Designer: Colin Montgomerie Green Fees: 18 hole - RMB700 (Visitor) Club Rental: Yes Buggy: Yes YALONG BAY GOLF CLUB

No.168 Qiong Dong Rd., Dongshan Town, Qiongshan Hainan Province, 572016 Tel: 0898 88565888 Toll free: 8008761868 Reservations: +86 898-88565039 Fax: +86 898-88565052 Website: www.yalongbaygolfclub.com Email: welcome@yalongbaygolfclub.com Hole: 18-hole international standard course Course Designer: Robert Trent Jones Junior II Green Fees: 18-hole Visitor - weekday RMB 850 / holiday & weekend RMB 1000 Buggy & Club Rental: Yes NANSHAN INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB

Nanshan Tourist Zone, Dongjiang Town Longkou, Shandong Province, 265718 Tel: +86 535-8616818 Fax: +86 535-8616818 Website: www.nanshangolf.com Email: service@nanshangolf.com Green fees; 18-hole - Visitor: normal RMB 800 / holiday RMB 1000

West of Chaobai River, Mapuo Shunyi District, Beijing, 101300 Tel: +86 10 6940 1111 / 6940 3788 Fax: +86 10 6940 2020 / 6940 3084 Website: www.bccgolf.com Email: service@bccgolf.com Hole: 54-hole international standard golf-links Course Designer: Cheng Chun Bo in 1988 Green Fees: 18-hole – Visitors normal RMB 400 / Holidays RMB 720 or 27-54 holes – Visitors normal RMB 650 / Holidays RMB 970

Holidays & Weekends RMB 1,080 HANGzHOU WEST LAKE INTERNATIONAL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

No.200 Zhijiang Road Zhejiang Province, 310024 Tel: +86 571 8732 1700 Fax: +86 571 8709 7351 Website: www.westlakegolf.com Email: golf@westlakegolf.com Holes: 18-hole Course Designer: Jack Nicklaus Green Fees: 18 hole – Guests weekday RMB 450 / Holidays & Weekends RMB 600 Buggy: RMB 200, Club Rental: Yes

GUANGDONG DAYANG GOLF CLUB

Dayang Xiang, Wujiungfu Jiexi County, Jieyang Guangdong Province, 515429 Tel: +86 663 533 1044 Fax: +86 663 533 1332 Website: www.dayanggolfclub.com Email: dayang@dayanggolfclub.com No of Holes: 18 holes Course Designer: Roger David Green Fees: 18-hole – Guests weekday RMB 150 / Holidays & Weekends RMB 300, Visitors weekday RMB 300 / Holidays & Weekends RMB 600 Buggy: RMB 200/buggy/2 persons & RMB 400/buggy/4 persons

MISSION HILLS GOLF CLUB

Shenzhen Guanlanhu Avenue Tel: +86-755-2802 0888 ext. 3712 Website: www.missionhillsgroup.com Email: info@missionhillsgroup.com or reservation@missionhillsgroup.com Holes: 216, Green Fees (18 Holes) Member’s guest Weekday - RMB$550 Weekend & HK Public Holiday - RMB$990 Hotel guest Weekday - RMB$1,100 Weekend & HK Public Holiday RMB$1,650 night golf Lighting fee Member’s Guest - RMB$180 Hotel Guest - RMB$260 Caddie fee Regular - RMB$110, Golden - RMB$200 Buggy Fee - RMB$220 SUN ISLAND INTERNATIONAL CLUB

DONGGUAN HILLVIEW GOLF CLUB

Add:Ying Bin Road, Fucheng District,Dongguan Guangdong, P.R.China Tel:0769-22209998 Fax:0769-22259998 Website: www.hillview-golf.com Hole: 36-hole Course Designer: Jim Engh Green Fees: 18-hole – Visitors weekday RMB 600 / Holidays & Weekends RMB 1,200 Caddie Fee: RMB 60 per caddie per 9-hole & RMB 110 per caddie per 18-hole Club Rental per set: RMB 160

Shenxiang, Qingpu County, Shanghai 201714 Tel: +8621 6983 3001 & 6983 3888 ext. 8008 Fax: +86 21 6983 3023 Website: www.sunislandclub.com Email: golf@sunislandclub.com or enquiry@sunislandclub.com Holes: 27 Course Designer: Nelson & Haworth

DRAGON LAKE INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB

Guan Yin Yan Reservoir, Wangcheng District Changsha, Hunan Province, 410217 Telephone number: +86 0731-8388270 / +86 0731-8388277 Fax number: +86 0731-8388277 Website: www.dragonlakegolf.com No of Holes: 27 Course Designer: Bob Shearer Green fees: 18-hole – Guests weekday RMB 680 / Holidays & Weekends RMB 880, Visitors weekday RMB 880 /

SPRING CITY GOLF & LAKE RESORT

Tang Chi, Yi Liang, Kunming, Yunnan, China 652103 Tel: 0871-7671188 Ext.1122 Fax: 0871-7671185 or 7671186 Email: frontoffice@springcityresort.com Website: www.springcityresort.com Holes: 36 Course Designer: Mountain Course by Jack Nicklaus, Lake Course by Robert Trent Jones Jr.