INTERVIEW WITH
FOOTJOY’S STEVE GALE DESTINATION REPORT
PHUKET PICTURES
THAILAND OPEN THAI GOLF NEWS / ISSUE Eleven
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CONTENTS
ISSUE 11
Editorial
12 16 6
EDITOR’S LETTER
7
GOLF NEWS... Stars to play in Thailand at last…
12 INTERVIEW Steve Gale 15
COURSE REPORT: Destination PHUKET
18
COVER STORY Where to stay and play in Phuket
22 ADVERTORIAL BLUE DIAMOND GOLF CLUB 24 ADVERTORIAL Soi Dao 28
Behind the Scenes • Kobkaew Chanaratsopon • Wi Hutchinson
34
TEE OFFers... New Boutique Hotel Offers
Editor Mike Bridge editor@thaigolf-news.com Tel: +66(0) 83 198 6700 Senior Writer Mark Hall info@thaigolf-news.com
ART & Design and Layout: PRODUCTION Dew Piyaman dewangelo@gmail.com Tel: +66(0) 89 144 7837 Printing: Grand Prix International Co Ltd Tel: +66 (0) 2 522 1731-8 ADVERTISING Thailand: Grand Prix International Co Ltd Surasek Saengphachareonsup Surasek_gpi@hotmail.com +66 (0) 25223227 International: Mike Bridge +66 (0) 831 986 700 editor@thaigolf-news.com Russia: Kim Waddoup kim@aigroup.ru PUBLISHER Grand Prix International Co Ltd 4/299 Moo 5, Soi Ladplakhao 66 Ladplakhao Road Anusawari, Bangkhen Bangkok 10220 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 2 522 1731 -8 Managing Editor Magazine Website
Thanyalak Padungmueang www.thaigolf-news.com
© All materials in this magazine is the copyright of International Golf Publication. Supported by
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• THAI GOLF NEWS •
ISSUE ELEVEN
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THAI GOLF NEWS
ISSUE 11
EDITOR’S LETTER Editors letter….
Over the past few weeks I have been on the road checking out a few more destinations for the next issue. I have now visited over forty courses since I arrived in Thailand 18 months ago, so only another 210 to go! My previous golfing experiences have mainly been centered on England and the Middle East, with a few Asian courses thrown in too. However I have now realized that we are so lucky here in Thailand to have so many golfing challenges. Mountains, seaside, jungle, links, you name it, the variety is awesome and all delivered with a big Thai smile. The majority of clubs offer a very high standard of course maintenance, and the prices are not too exorbitant, particularly if you take advantage of sports days during the week. The lowest I have come across was Baht450 for a round of golf excluding caddie fee, which is exceptional value. Clubs also reward golfers who stay at their hotels, and it is not unusual to have unlimited golf thrown in on the day you check in and another round on the next morning, before check out. Bangkok has many challenges, but on the whole the courses tend to be relatively flat. Head out of town and within 90 minutes you can experience wildlife, unusual vegetation, waterfalls, even the odd snake or monkeys plus in some cases wonderful fresh air to keep you cool during your round. In this issue we flew down to Phuket to see what this popular island has to offer. There are in fact six good standard courses dotted around the island, but because they cater for the overseas vacationers, most green fees tend to be on the high side. The cost of land is one factor, so it is unlikely that Phuket will ever see any new courses being built in the future. Environmental golf is also very popular, so we then checked out two courses nestled deep into the countryside. The first in Soi Dao south East of Bangkok near the Cambodian border, and the second in Nakhon Nayok, part of the Khao Yai region. I am sure most of us have a pair of FootJoy shoes or gloves in our bag. Well after several decades, the company is now entering the performance apparel market, and we caught up with their Vice President when he jetted into Bangkok to launch their first collection to the Thai media. INTERVIEW WITH
JAIDEE’S MANAGER
DESTINATION REPORT
KORAT FEATURE
THAI CADDIES THAI GOLF NEWS / ISSUE Eleven
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COVER PICTURE SUPLIED BY Mike Bridge
By the way if you or your society are planning to organize a golf tournament in the next few months and want to encourage golfers to participate, then do let us know about your event and we will be happy to promote them free of charge in our future issues. Enjoy our latest offering, and do let me have your own recommendations on where to play a great round of golf here in Thailand? Mike Bridge editor@thaigolf-news.com
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FEATURES: • LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL NEWS • GOLF TOURISM • THAI COURSES • INTERVIEWS • GOLF JOKES • TEE OFFERS 6
• THAI GOLF NEWS •
ISSUE ELEVEN
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GOLF NEWS... Stars to play in Thailand at last… The Asian Tour will welcome a new world-class tournament, The Thailand Golf Championship at Amata Spring Country Club in December, with recent Major champions Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke, along with world number two Lee Westwood, headlining this new US$1 million showpiece. The Thailand Golf Championship, a fullfield Asian Tour event, will take up the prestigious position as the Tour’s seasonending tournament from December 15-18, 2011 where the battle for the coveted Order of Merit crown will be determined. Mr. Suwat Liptapanlop, Vice Chairman of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) and the Chairman of the Organising Committee, announced the launch of inaugural Thailand Golf Championship recently stating, ‘Here the aim of the event is to be a part of the celebration of His Majesty the King’s 84th birthday anniversary.” Amata Spring Country Club, Thailand’s premier golf club, will become the host venue of the newest championship in the region where the event will be broadcast live over four days on the Asian Tour’s global television platform which reaches 200 countries and over 800 million homes. The winner of The Thailand Golf Championship will receive a winner’s cheque of US$158,500 and also a spot in the World Golf ChampionshipBridgestone Invitational 2012. Amata Spring Country Club, situated on the outskirts of the capital city, has been in the forefront of golf since its launch in 2005. Last year, it successfully hosted the World Golf Salutes King Bhumibol Skins Tournament while earlier this season, it played host to the British Open International Final Qualifying – Asia. The Club was built with the vision of being one of the premier golf clubs in Asia, if not the world, where its signature par three 17th hole stands out impressively as it has a floating green which is accessible by boat. Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han said The Thailand Golf Championship will be a great season-finale event, thanks to a lucrative prize fund, world-class field and the fight for the coveted Order of Merit trophy. “Our players are very excited with this newest tournament as they will have the opportunity to compete on one of Asia’s best championship courses. We will work closely with Amata Spring www.thaigolf-news.com
Country Club to ensure a successful start to The Thailand Golf Championship and make it a premier tournament on the Asian Tour, said Han.” McIlroy and Clarke, both Northern Irishmen, enjoyed their maiden Major victories this year in stunning fashion. The 22-year-old McIlroy, hailed as a future world number one, crushed the field with a massive eight-shot victory at the US Open at Congressional Country Club in June. McIlroy, the world number five, said: “I have heard so many wonderful things about Amata Spring Country Club and its championship golf course. I’m looking forward to competing in the inaugural Thailand Golf Championship in December with the hope of ending my season on a winning note.” Clarke provided one of the most enduring victories at the British Open when the 42-year-old triumphed at Royal St George’s last month for his first Major title. The big Ulsterman said: “I have competed regularly in Asia since the 1990s and I have always enjoyed my time over there playing on top golf courses and against top players from the Asian Tour.” Westwood will be targeting a third victory of the year in Asia as he produced back-to-back triumphs in April at the inaugural Indonesian Masters and Ballantine’s Championship in Korea.
“I played Amata Spring before and I had a great time. The course is fantastic. I’ve always enjoyed success in Asia throughout my career and this year has been no different. Since I’ve already won a new tournament in Indonesia this year, it would be a special achievement if I can add The Thailand Golf Championship onto my resume as well. ISSUE ISSUE ELEVEN NINE
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GOLF NEWS...
Sweet-swinging Swede wins Hyatt Open in Hua Hin
China attracts the Stars...
At the same time seasoned touring pro Darren Clarke held off Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson to win the Open Championship at Royal St. George’s Golf Club in England last month, a talented, teenage amateur was busy repelling 107 challengers in the 2nd Annual Hyatt Open at Banyan Golf Club in Thailand. With net scores of 65 and 69 for a two-day total of 134 (10-under-par), 10-handicap Swede Oscar Odestal finished one clear of runner-up Anand Singhsachthep to earn the champion’s trophy and the glory of taming a Rolex World’s Top 1000 golf course. Masters Champion Charl Schwartzel, US Open Champion Rory McIlroy and Open Champion Darren Clarke have all entered the WGC-HSBC Champions. They will be competing against World Ranked No.2 and 4, Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer, defending Champion and fellow Ryder Cup star, Francesco Molinari and the 2011 Players Championship winner, KJ Choi who have all confirmed their intention to play in the final World Golf Championship event of 2011. The Sheshan International Golf Club, Shanghai will host the 2011 WGC-HSBC Champions, on 3 – 6 November for the seventh time and the third time since being elevated to the elite World Golf Championship status. This first wave of seven world class players to declare their intention to play in the tournament follows the same pattern as previous years where the world’s best players have flocked to compete in the fourth World Golf Championship of the year. Maybe it’s worth checking some Air Asia flights to Shanghai to see what will be a superb four days of golf.
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“Junior golf development is very close to our hearts at Banyan Golf Club, so to see such a young player win this distinguished tournament is fitting,” said Stacey Walton, Banyan GC’s general manager. “From tee to green, the course was playing as good as a tour event, and Oscar won with a tour-quality performance.” In Hua Hin on a family holiday, the 15-year-old phenom played Banyan GC as if it were as familiar to him as Royal Eslov and Barseback — his home courses in Sweden. Tournament supporters Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok and Hyatt Regency Hua Hin recognized all golfers by presenting each competitor with event shirts and a personalized locker with name plate. After awarding Odestal the first-place prize, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin general manager Sammy Carolus acknowledged Thai Airways, Titleist, Toyota, BB&B, Connect 3e charity, Thai Country Club, Santiburi Samui Golf Club and other Hyatt Open sponsors, and announced next year’s edition will take place July 21-22, again at Banyan GC and in conjunction with the Open Championship.
www.thaigolf-news.com
The PowerCore bracelets have been taking the States by storm, and recently a visitor to Thailand from the United States sent in this email. I have a degenerative arthritic hip and for 12 months whenever I play a round of golf, I have to take strong anti-inflammatory tablets to avoid severe pain. I recently played golf for the first time since obtaining the PowerCore bracelet, and opted not to take any tablets. I was pain free throughout the round and felt stronger than a normally do at the end of a round. The course was relatively flat however, we did finish 18 holes in less than 4 hours and it was also incredibly hot. An interesting development for me, thank you so much. Graham
Users of PowerCore bracelets have reported noticeable: • Increases of Balance & Strength • Enhanced Flexibility & Motion • Quicker Muscle Recovery Time • Better Focus & Alertness • Relief of Stress, Tension & Joint Pain • Longer, Deeper Sleep Exclusive Distributor: Tri-V International Co., Ltd. Tel. 662-720-1500 www.trivinter.com, www.powercoretha.com Find PowerCore at: Santiburi Golf Course ( Samui, Chaing Rai, Huahin, Khon Kaen) Black Mountain Resort and Country Club ( Prachaupkhirikhan ), Thana City Golf and Country club, Krungthep Kreetha Golf Course Etc.
GOLF NEWS... Caddies read TGN at Thailand Open.
Thailand and Japanese Golf Properties Sign Reciprocal Agreements
Muang Kaew Golf Course in Bangkok and Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort in Chiang Mai announced the signing of reciprocal agreements with Anegasaki Country Club and Tateno Classic Golf Club of Japan. The signing benefits the memberships of all four prestigious clubs and further exhibits the strong bond between Thailand and Japan. It has been reported that as a result of the agreements members of all four facilities will be extended special green fee rates and playing privileges. Anegasaki CC and Tateno Classic GC are located in the Chiba province of Japan and have a long history of golfing excellence. Anegasaki was opened in 1960, designed by Japanese architect Taniguchi and features 36 holes of golf through tree lined fairways.
Following on from the success of our Caddie feature in the last Issue, caddies are now keen to have their picture taken for TGN. Here are three delightful potential Caddies of the Month reading the magazine. Both Tourism Authority of Thailand and Singha are now on board as main sponsors of the Caddie Championship 2011 where the final will be held at Siam Country Old Course on September 26th. With a top prize of Baht55, 000 this is a serious tournament and a great way to promote Thailand’s secret asset…those smiling caddies! Go down there and give them your support.
Caddie of the Month
Tateno Classic is also quite famous having been designed by the now Champions Tour golfer Bernhard Langer of Germany. Tateno Classic, opened 1986, coincidentally the same year Bernhard Langer was ranked the number 1 Golfer in the world and a year after his first Masters victory. Muang Kaew Golf Course in Bangkok has been a favorite of Thai golfers for several years now since its redesign by Schmidt-Curley. Chiangmai Highlands, also a SchmidtCurley creation, has become the premier golf course in the north of Thailand and ranking among the Top 3 Courses in Thailand by readers of Asian Golf Monthly. “We are all very pleased with the agreement and happy to have made some new friends from Japan in the process” reported K.Janejira Thirawat. Managing Director of Muang Kaew and Chiangmai Highlands “We hope the members of all four clubs have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of this new relationship” Golfers interested in learning more about Muang Kaew Golf Course or Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort can visit the club’s websites www.chiangmaihighlands.com, www. muangkaewgolf.com
Khun Praveena Hubchai know as Bim works on the island of Phuket at Blue Canyon Golf Club. She is 21years old and speaks a bit of English. Her caddie number is 294. If you have a favourite caddie, then send us in a picture and a few words on why she is your choice for Caddie of the Month. Send to: editor@thaigolf-news.com 10
• THAI GOLF NEWS •
ISSUE ELEVEN
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B o P hlo i, K a n c h a n a b u r i “This is my dream,
My family,
My friends” Dr.Prachin Eamlumnow
Grand Opening 8 March 2012
actual picture : 2 march 2011
Blue Diamond Golf and Watersports Club Co.,Ltd.
4/299 Moo5 Ladplakhao 66, Anusawari, Bangkhen, Bangkok 10220 Fax (66-2)971-7342 Tel. (66-2)971-7340, (66-84)075-4709 Tel./Fax (66-34)603-858, (66-87)160-0140 www.bluedaimondgolf.com
Interview with FJ’s Steve Gale… FootJoy is a major force in the golf industry, having successfully dominated the market with their golf shoes and gloves for the past few decades. They are now entering the clothing sector with their new range of FJ Performance Apparel range for men which will arrive in Thailand next spring. We caught up with Steve Gale, their Vice President Apparel Sales Worldwide, when he flew into Bangkok recently to launch their first collection.
How did you get into the golf industry? I worked as a tournament administrator for my first two years out of college which gave me exposure to some of the best amateur and local professional golfers in the state of Indiana, US. Throughout my years of playing collegiate golf and working in tournament administration, my goal was always to end up in the business of golf. At 23, I was given an opportunity as a sales representative for another golf company, working my way up through management to a position of national sales manager. It was in this position that I learned the golf apparel business from both a sales and management standpoint. When you joined FJ what did you do at the beginning? I started with FJ as a sales representative. I spent 13 years in this position. It has been my pleasure to represent such and incredible brand and culture for this time. Were you involved in the early stages of deciding whether to go into apparel?
I consulted as a sales representative but did not take part in the early stages of the project. My detailed involvement started a year ago as we developed the sales strategy for the product. It is very competitive. What do you think will make FJ stand out? You are right; it is very competitive and you have to stand out. First, the FJ brand is well recognized and respected by the avid core golfer. The brand gives us instant credibility. However, the product must be appealing and it must perform. We have spent two years making sure that we bring the absolute best materials, construction and design to our apparel line. The consumer will indeed be pleased when they purchase FJ Apparel. • THAI GOLF NEWS •
ISSUE Eleven
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Have you created any exclusive fabrics to cope with rain or extreme heat? We have developed our own ProDry technology that is being used in all of our knit shirts. Perspiration is quickly moved to the outside of the garment where it can evaporate quickly, allowing the player to stay dry and maintain freedom of movement. Our materials also have tremendous stretch properties, enhancing the freedom of movement necessary in the golf swing. In rainwear, our DryJoys technology has made us the worldwide leader in waterproof products and it allows the player to play comfortably in all weather conditions. Whether in rainwear or shirts, our goal is to “make every day playable.” You said you launched FJ Apparel in the UK and the States first. What has been the reaction from retailers? Do they have sufficient rack space in their outlets to give FJ room? Our apparel line will actually launch simultaneously in early 2012 in the US, UK, Canada, Australia and SE Asia. Other markets will follow in 2013. We have been booking this 2012 product with retailers in the US, UK and Canada for about a month now and the response is incredible. We have increased our early forecasts significantly based on this early response. Many retailers have commented that they knew FJ Apparel would be good but they were not expecting such an impactful and extensive line. They often have to rethink their line-up after viewing our line. In the future will you include ladies and junior apparel? At this time, we have chosen to focus on the men’s market. We could decide to address those other opportunities at a later date. Finally when you are not travelling the World, do you play golf and where is your favorite golf course? I still love to play but the opportunities are few and far between with the launch of FJ Apparel in full swing. I recently had the opportunity to play the newlyrenovated Pinehurst #2 course and it is really a special place. I look forward to playing in SE Asia on my next visit.
www.thaigolf-news.com Advertorial Feature www.thaigolf-news.com
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ExpEriEncE
p h u k E t at i t s b E s t
Phuket’s Most Exciting and Stylish Contemporary Resort –
dens – Staff that continues to be the epitome of kindness and
A culmination of a passion aimed to highlight the joy of life – De-
thoughtful unpretentious service that is so unique to Twinpalms
liciously comfortable it features sleek yet sensual minimalist in-
Phuket Resort – 100% pure and natural products – A world
teriors – Exquisite food orchestrated by talented, creative chefs
class spa – Original art collections – A well equipped library...
and presented in vibrant restaurants – A fashionable beach
and these are just some of the reasons to stay at the privately
club, the ultimate in intimate seaside sophistication – Enor-
owned, passionately run Twinpalms Phuket Resort in Thailand.
mous swimming pools – Lushly landscaped tropical water gar-
www.twinpalms-phuket.com
Twinpalms Phuket Phuket’s Most Exciting & Stylish Contemporary Resort 106/46 Moo 3, Surin Beach Road, Cherng Talay, Phuket 83110, Thailand t +66 (0) 76 316500, f +66 (0) 76 316599 e book@twinpalms- p huk et .co m w t w inp alm s -p huk et .co m
Phuket…a golfer’s paradise… Phuket with its top quality golf courses has for a number of years welcomed a large number of local and overseas golfers. For such a small island, it is unusual to find such a wide variety of golf challenges, from seaside to mountain layouts, and all within a maximum of 45 minutes from your hotel. The Phuket courses are Phuket Country Club (27 holes), Blue Canyon (36 holes), Lock Palm (18 holes), Red Mountain (18 holes), Laguna Phuket Golf Club (18 holes), Mission Hills Phuket (18 holes) and Phunaka (nine holes with floodlights). We selected three different challenges for our Phuket report, namely Blue Canyon Lakes Course, Loch Palm, and the new kid on the island Red Mountain. Blue Canyon Lakes Course Blue Canyon is perhaps the most famous club on the island, having hosted several Championships attracting the likes of Ernie and Tiger back in the mid 90’s. This 36 hole course has their popular Canyon course, however many locals regard their 18 hole Lakes course, as their own favorite.
8th at Blue Canyon Lakes
Established in 1999, the Lakes Course has water hazards coming into play on 17 out of 18 holes. The course is a mixture of waterfilled canyons created by open cast mining with its natural land flow left relatively unchanged. Its front nine holes run through a landscape of lakes and original canyons, whilst the back nine weaves around more scenic lakes and soft whispering woodlands of rubber trees. Although water does come into play on most of the holes, it is a very fair layout with several birdie opportunities too. Trees play a big part as well which gives the feeling that you really are in the countryside.
10th at Blue Canyon Lakes
Architect Yoshikazu Kato has masterfully created a 7,129yard challenge with target-driving areas set at 270 yards to accommodate today’s long hitting professionals. The greens are much wider than Canyon Course; in fact the Lakes Course boasts some of the largest greens in Asia. Hole 6 occupies 1,115 m2 and Hole 2’s green is 1,040 m2, so it is often easy to drive to the green, but the real test of golfing mettle will be your putting skills to hole them. The 8th is perhaps the most picturesque par 3 on the golf course. High teeing areas give a great view of this large green, beautifully framed by water and a bunker short and left and another bunker behind. The signature hole is left to test your skills at the end of your round. Hole 18 is also well known as one of Asia’s best finishing holes in golf. It gives golfers a choice to end their final stroke onto the green from two platforms. A lone tree separates two totally different fairway options. The vegetation fringed water filled canyon is on the right and expands against fairway. The right side of fairway allows longer drive, but the partly hidden view of the green psychologically takes back advantage.
Award winning 18th hole
Lakes Course Hole 18 is ranked as one of the top best par-fours in Asia by several magazines. Definitely a scary finishing hole, but well worth the trip, and it is not so expensive as well. For info on the club check out www.bluecanyonclub.com www.thaigolf-news.com
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Tinidee Hotel @ Phuket Loch Palm Golf Club Promoted as the most relaxing golf course in Phuket, this 18 hole course is located right in the centre of the island just 7 kms. from Phuket Town and about 15 minutes from Patong. Nestling below a panoramic range of peaks, and sandwiched between the Katu Waterfalls and Katu Village, the layout surrounds the largest lake on any golf course in Phuket, which give golfers a refreshing breeze off the water. Loch Palm is a par 72, 6,555 yard course which has been recently upgraded and when we played was in great shape. Loch Palm has smooth slopes and dramatic elevation changes. It will take you across and around ravines and plateaus that will test your skills at many levels of play. The front nine sits amid lakes and palm trees. The second nine moves you though mountains, hitting uphill and downhill with woods, irons and even your putter!! Before your round, try warming up on their driving range hitting balls onto the lake! The first hole can be a bit of a challenge, as there is a fairly thin fairway with loads of palm trees on the left and the Crystal Lake all along the right side. It’s relatively short though so birdies are on the card here. The 2nd offers a great view of the course and is a reachable par 5 at 458 yards from the blue tees. Water everywhere so take the advice given by the caddies. Hole 5 is the courses hardest hole according to the handicap chart, at 597 yards. No water just need to give it a massive second to try to reach the green. My favorite hole on the course is the 11th which starts down a valley with a stream across the fairway. If you can get your second over the stream then you may make the raised green, but beware of the undulations. To finish the 18th looks fairly simple, but stay right on your drive as the left has a gully that eats golf
balls and you will not reach the green with your second shot. Loch Palm is rebuilding their club house and everything will be complete by the end of October. Another plus is their new 47 room hotel called Tinidee Hotel @ Phuket, which is located adjacent to the club house. We stayed there and had an excellent breakfast at the clubhouse before our round. Check out their stay and play packages. Although perhaps overshadowed by Blue Canyon and Red Mountain, Loch Palm is a very enjoyable experience from start to finish, and well worth a visit. For info on the club check out www.lochpalm.com or for the hotel go to www.tinideehotels.com Par 3 hole 14
New Locker Rooms 16
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Red Mountain Golf Club Opened in late 2008 this course has already made a big impact on the island and has many fans and admirers. Arriving at the modern open plan club house you immediately can see down below a breath taking panorama of challenging holes. We couldn’t wait to tee off.
Spectacular scenery on 15th!
Designed by John Morrow, the layout follows the contours of an old tin mine, with every hole having some hidden challenges. Carts are a must here as the elevation is dramatic. To start your adventure the first hole has a funnel effect with two large rocks half way down each side of the fairway, so aim down the centre. I loved the 2nd par 5 which tees off over a small lake to an uphill fairway. You need to be a long hitter if you want to stand a chance of seeing the green with your 2nd shot, as there is a massive mountain on the right. A reasonably large but undulating green waits in a valley, so get the caddie’s advice here. A great hole!
Red Mountain’s hole 12
Hole 8 and 9 both have raised tees down to valleys and are fun to play. To start the back nine there is a par 4 around a lake from another raised tee. Should get the second onto the green here, but beware of those undulations. John Morrow keeps the best until the end with a crazy par 3 on the 17th where he has used an old mine shaft for the green. You tee off high above with 140 yard drop below. Bring your camera for this one! The 18th is a par five down a valley with a lake and the clubhouse in the background. Accuracy is critical here and good luck with your second shot. Apart from a ‘Wow’ factor course, the clubhouse restaurant and locker rooms are excellent, and the clubs rentals are first class even down to the shoe hire. Definitely in the top ten courses in Asia. www.redmountainphuket.com
Great course, great caddies and great fun too!
Ready for some mining? Hole 17 www.thaigolf-news.com Advertorial Feature www.thaigolf-news.com
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Where to stay in Phuket… A Radisson Pool Villa
Radisson’s infinity pools
Radisson’s Azure Restaurant
Renowned as a great golfing destination, many golfers and their non playing partners will be heading over to this island in Southern Thailand. Bearing in mind that the courses are at most only 40 minutes from where you will be staying, the variety of hotels is vast. Naturally while you experience some excellent golf courses, here are a couple of suggestions to keep the whole family happy. If you are into the resort style of hotel, then check out the Radisson Plaza Resort Phuket Panwa Beach. This new 5 star hotel is located on the picturesque Makham Bay in Cape Panwa, away from all the hussle and bussel , on the southern tip of the island. This hotel features all the amenities of a premium beachfront property, including a well-being spa, several dining venues, a supervised kid’s club, various swimming pools plus a long sandy beach. There are 211 stylish rooms, including Pool Villas, Deluxe Sea-view Rooms and well-appointed Suites. Comfortable accommodations combined with genuine hospitality ensure that your Phuket Vacation is truly inspiring. www.radisson.com/phuketth_plaza
Pimnara’s Reception
If your other half gets their kicks shopping, then try out Phuket’s latest hotel, The Pimnara Boutique Hotel. It is literally located inside Jungceylon, Patong’s largest shopping centre. This is truly a one off hotel, where the clever 29 year old owner has persuaded 15 leading Thai Contempory artistes to add their personal touches to all her 67 rooms. Eventually the hotel will have its own facilties, however with so many restaurants literally on your doorstep you are spoilt for choice. The good news is during their soft opening their rates are hard to beat, and if you like to party, Bangla Road is literally over the road. www.pimnaraboutiquehotel.com 18
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Pimnara’s Charlie Chaplain Room
Pimnara’s Kids Chair
Twin Palms Phuket
Twinpalms Phuket Resort is perhaps Phuket‘s Most Exciting & Stylish Contemporary Resort. Located away from the hussel and bussle at Surin Beach, this hotel offers a beautiful and serene environment with a modern, romantic twist - “Ultra chic meets lavish resort.” The hotel has a great infinity pool and bar, but most will head for the hotel’s popular beach and bar called The Catch. Apart from the hotel, the resort has a number of lavished apartments and villas to rent which come with all the hotel’s services. The beach is very sandy and has a lot of restaurants and bars even massage beds too! It tends to get very busy in high season, so try to take advantage of their current rates, which start to rise after the end of October. Great location for golfers as it is not too far from Laguna or Blue Canyon. www.twinpalms-phuket.com www.thaigolf-news.com
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STAY EXCITED.
Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Mai Khao Beach is offering some serious opening rates. Our packages include accommodation in a Deluxe Garden View Room with daily buffet breakfast for 2 persons and complimentary internet. Oh, and did we mention that we are less than 15 minutes to world class golf courses?
Offers start from THB 1,999++ Visit www.holidayinnresorts.com/phuketmaikhao www.facebook.com/maikhao or call +66 76 603 699 to get started. Terms & conditions apply.
STAY YOU.TM holidayinnresorts.com
In the bar or on the terrace…..whatever your 19th hole desires – Thana City Golf caters to your needs…. Thana City is the perfect location for an after golf lunch or dinner function or to gather with your family and friends. Want to host a sports night for your favorite premier league soccer team? How about a family gathering, a boy’s night out after a round of golf, or a casual get-together for your society, organization or work group? In every way, they offer you more at Thana City Golf & Sports Club. You can choose to relax outdoors on the terrace with breathtaking views overlooking the 9th and 18th fairways, or sit inside the air-conditioned restaurant watching sports on one of our 50-inch, high definition Televisions. Either way, you’ll enjoy wonderful Asian and Western food in relaxed and peaceful surroundings. The all time famous is “Noodle” with a choice of beef or pork noodles with the signature broth and all manners of accompaniments. If noodles don’t take your fancy, then have their members’ favorite, Sukiyaki (Thai Shabu Shabu), if you come on Tuesday evening and Sunday afternoon, you can enjoy the beer while listening to an acoustic live brand with a choice of freshly cooked BBQ. They offer seating for up to 200 people, and are happy to accommodate your group’s needs – you can call them at 02-336-1968-70#203-204 and they will take care of all of the details to give you and your friends a great experience at Thana City Golf & Sports Club. TC Hot Deal: September “Good Morning TC” 9 holes golf 600 Baht T-Off 6.00 - 8.00 a.m. * remark: caddy must be booked in advance to get caddy fee of 150 Baht if not golfer who walk - in or with no caddy reservation will need to pay caddy ticket 250 Baht
TC Happy Day Happy Hour T-Off 6.00-8.00 900 Baht 18 holes September: 23 and 28 September * Remark: this offer is only for some specify date, for more information please call Pro Shop 083-304-4433, 083-304-4455
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Blue Diamond Resort comes to life…
It has already taken nearly three years of careful planning and construction, to turn a disused gem mine in Kanchanaburi what will become a first class resort. Part of the plans include an 18 hole Championship Golf Course which is now taking shape, and has already started to receive some excellent reports. The course will be known simply as The Grand Prix Golf Club. The owner, Dr Prachin Eamlumnow, is President of the Grand Prix Group. This is their first venture into the hospitality and golf industry. The Grand Prix Group however is well known for their Motor Industry connections, firstly as organizers of the Bangkok International Motor Show, and as publishers of several successful Motor Magazines for 41 years. I was lucky enough to be invited by Dr Prachin to visit the site and to play the front nine holes back in April. Quite an experience with only six players ahead of us it felt like stepping into unchartered territory. I have to report that these nine holes all offered a great variety of challenges and were also great fun to play. From elevated tees overlooking the countryside, to lakes with faboulous wildlife the players will certainly enjoy these holes. Also the sunsets with the mountains in the background are really breathtaking. Back in April ,the back nine holes were still just a vast area of mud and waste land, with the only a few markers with red flags indicating the locations of fairways and the greens. There are still valuable undiscovered gems at the site, and in the future there are plans to open a business with these gems on display. Last month the team constructing the course had almost completed all the elevations and drainage and with the grass laid, they 22
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resembled nine superb holes. The Grand Prix Golf Club will be definitely ready to play in December. Too early perhaps to say how they will play, as the grass needs time to still bed in, but it is expected that a few professionals and guests of the company will be invited to test the full 18 holes in the next few months. Creating a golf course is always a challenge, especially as you are restricted to the geography of the surrounding area, while trying to retain an environmentally favorable balance. The Grand Prix Group made an early decision to handle all the onsite construction of the course themselves, even to the extent of buying their own diggers and trucks. They even have their own Sand Separate Plants to build the Golf course. Their efforts seem so far to have paid off not only in savings on the cost, but they are also running to schedule as well. The club house and on course refreshment chalets are being constructed and will be ready in time for the Golf Course’s soft opening on March 8th. Meanwhile the Blue Diamond Resort is starting to take shape, and they have a Swedish Company building a show and resort. Shortly and a number of luxury villas and condominiums will be ready on New Year 2555 and put up for sale to some lucky investors. Advertorial Feature
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Soi Dao Highland weaves its magic…
16th at Soi Dao USA designer Dennis Griffiths has done it again. Famed for his layouts of numerous courses in the States and here in Thailand, including Thai Country Club and Phoenix Golf Club, Dennis has also created a secret gem hidden away in the mountains of Soi Dao. Opened in 1995, The Soi Dao Highland Golf Club & Resort near the Cambodian border is a 7,162 yard par 72 golf course that takes you on a country trip around some of the most beautiful holes in Thailand. According to the club’s website, Hole 3 a 206 yard par 3 is their signature hole, but to be honest several holes give you the ‘WOW’ factor and are worthy signature holes as well. The whole experience kicks off with a sneaky 438 yard par 4, teeing off nearby the The Club’s Hotel downhill towards a fast running river. Your second needs to carry the river up towards a raised green, so beware for those who have not had the time to warm up before starting out. The third is a very picturesque and long par 3 over a lake to a raised green. I am sure the swimmer at night collects a lot of lost golf balls here. One of our favourites and where the fun really kicks in is their 552 yard par 5 fourth hole, which starts from a raised tee overlooking a valley with the green hidden away in the distance. The shot onto the green is hidden by mounds, and bear in mind that there is a lake guarding the green on the right. Worthy of their number one handicap! 24
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3rd Signature Hole To finish off the front nine you need to cover 150 yards over a fast running river up to the fairway. The 9th green is fairly flat but is surrounded by a few cleverly placed bunkers. You now start to get a bit closer to the mountains on the back nine, which creates a great back drop. Hole 11 has a great raised tee down towards a large green again guarded by a river. Watch out for some unusual trees with fruit growing beside the fairway here. My favourite hole was the very photogenic number 16, a 169 yard island green with a bunker at the front and the bendy palm trees at the back. Definitely time to get the camera out here for the obligatory group shot.
Soi Dao offers some great challenges from a number of tees, and the overall memory is the clean air, fabulous views, and the peace of the countryside only interrupted by the sound of the rivers and waterfalls flowing down from the mountain. The club house is well laid out with a pro shop and restaurant, and adjacent is Soi Dao Highland Hotel with a welcoming outdoor pool. With the mist and low clouds hanging over the surrounding Khao Soi Dao mountains, it does create a magical backdrop, and offers a very pleasant temperature to play a relaxing round of golf. Around a four hour drive from Bangkok, definitely a course to add to your list. www.soidaohighland.com www.thaigolf-news.com
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One the best
Golf courses in Thailand
Royal Hills ticks all the boxes… How many times have you arrived at a golf course with high expectations of a great golfing experience, and are sometimes disappointed by what you see on arrival. Well our first visit to the Royal Hills Golf Resort in Nakhon Nayok certainly did not disappoint. Any club that can boast its very own 235 room 4 star hotel, a royal spa, outdoor swimming pool, seminar suites plus an 18 hole golf course has to be very popular. Their par 72, 7,034 yard golf course was designed by Nelson and Haworth, the same team who created the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club in Malaysia and the Raffles Golf & Country Club in Singapore. Luckily for them they inherited some breath taking scenery with lakes, waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife, a vast variety of plants and trees and not forgetting the backdrop of the vast mist covered mountains of the Khao Yai National Park. The front nine holes takes you alongside the mountains with a variety of elevations, while the back nine takes you up to their signature hole number 18 that winds around a large lake with the green overlooked by the hotel. There are in fact five tee boxes from a whopping 7,372 yards from the Championship tees down to a manageable 5,301 yards on the red tees. Fairways were generally wide and inviting but course management is important, and the Greens are generally small but do allow for a running approach. It isn’t long before you arrive at the second hole, possibly the most difficult hole on the course. The first landing area puts you between two sand bunkers to the right and the third to the left. Your second shot outs you in position for the green but to the left is a monster sand bunker with boulder outcroppings. The green has two bunkers on its left, and also has one on the back right. You have been warned! Hole Six plays uphill all the way with a huge, deep sand bunker to the right side of the fairway. The green is long with two bunkers to the left, as well as a long, deep grassy swale and the right side has grassy hollows. Great views with the mist covered mountain as the backdrop. All the holes are a challenge but do enjoy hole 12, a truly beautiful hole with elevated tees , two small channels three pot bunkers and a large green with a sand bunkers to the right and a large grassy hollow in the back. The 18th signature hole is a beautiful finishing hole with a large lake that runs the entire length of the hole and a grand view of the clubhouse from the tee area. A rock wall surrounds the green along the lake on the right side so you will enjoy your birdie here. With only a ninety minute 160 kilometre ride from Bangkok, Royal Hills is a great place to take your wife, partner or the whole family for a very rewarding break in some breath taking peaceful countryside. 26
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Cool waves and sounds..... Spasso is always rocking….. Bangkok’s hot spot, Spasso is located in the Lower Lobby of Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok. This chic and sophisticated up market restaurant and bar continues to be the place for authentic Italian food and the best live music in town performed by the International headliners from USA and Canada. The food is excellent but what really makes this established club stand out are the top class live bands. Just arrived hot for Oman is USA band Transit, a six piece group fronted by a couple of sexy singers!
The Beach Club simply known as The Catch, is located 175m from Twinpalms Phuket Resort on Surin Beach. It is regarded as the most fashionable and exclusive Phuket beach club on the island. This stylish beach club offers succulent Fresh Live Seafood, delectable pizza from the wood fired oven and magnificent pasta. Choose from live Phuket Lobster, Sea bass, Andaman Tiger Prawns and Blue & Black Crabs. Check out their “Tuesday & Friday Beach Barbecue” with beach bonfire.
Open daily for lunch and dinner, the live music starts from 10.00pm – 2am. For more information or reservations, call Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok at 0 2254 1234.
Worship the sun in the clubs ultra comfy beach loungers by day or watch people at the cool, oversized terrazzo bar at night. Once the sun disappears, the music tempo rises with excellent DJ’s until late into the night. Definitely one to add to your list for great places to hang out. Bookings recommended. www.twinpalms-phuket.com
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Behind the Scenes
Wi Hutchinson – Golf Operations Director Solar Golf and Tours – Pattaya I joined Solar Golf as a holiday representative dealing with golfers arriving in Thailand. I worked previously at Phuket Marina, so I had some experience in customer relations, but initially I was sometimes a bit confused by what golfers talk about all the time. My company arranged for me to take golf lessons, and I learnt very quickly that I really enjoyed the sport. I was promoted to Director in 2008. Kobkaew Chanaratsopon Assistant General Manager at Royal Hills Resort What did you do before working at the family business running Royal Hills? I worked for Silver Express as a sale representative selling silver jewelry from Thailand. Then they established another business called Charming Charlie a retail store for selling women accessories in America. I was in charge of fashion jewelry buyer based in Houston Texas. When did you join the club and what was your first job at the club? I returned from the States and started to work for Royal Hills five years ago and my first job was product development manager.
My job involves organising everything for holiday golfers – meeting them at the airport, transport, tee time bookings and taking care of hotels and tours. I play golf regularly with our customers and I have been to the UK five times to promote golf in Thailand. My dream came true when I played the Old Course in St Andrews!
What do you do today? Describe a typical day at the club / hotel? I am now Asst. General Manager for both the Hotel and Golf Course. My job is to ensure that our staff are well trained and are serving customers needs. We recently renovated our hotel rooms and giving more refreshing look to our new logo. Currently, the projects that I am working on are the additional Seminar rooms, which will be completed by September 2011, and another is Royal Hills resident, that will be launched by the end of this year. What makes the Resort so successful and what have you personally done which has been your biggest impact at the Resort to date? We’re fortunate to have a pleasant location. Royal Hills Golf Resort and Spa is located in Nakhon Nayok, which is only one and a half hours drive from Bangkok, surrounded by Khao Yai National Park. We have 253 hotel rooms and a total of 15 seminar rooms, which can fill the maximum number of 1000 customers In the first four years of my work here, I tried to adjust and renovate our product lines and looks, so that it will fit modern day taste and style. Now I am spending time on our corporate identity. The result is, among other things, our new logo, which communicates that today, Royal Hills has improved to a new phase, and you’re welcomed to see what we have to offer right now. 28
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Zoom-zoom: We put a little sport in everything we do….
Mazda Sales (Thailand) Co. Ltd. has launched another new action in the small car market with the introduction of the Mazda2 2011MY Freshening. Their 5-door hatchback is now called the “New Mazda2 SPORTS” while the 4-door sedan is called “New Mazda2 ELEGANCE”. Both of Mazda2 SPORTS and ELEGANCE come with larger number of added features inside and out. Now all Mazda2 include dual front SRS airbags, ABS brakes, powered windows, foldable powered side view mirrors and allow wheels for every trim level. Meanwhile, the top version comes with DVD player with 7-inch LCD screen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and SD card inputs, and full aerodynamic kit. Prices start at only Baht545, 000 to Baht695, 000. The Mazda2 is powered by a 1,500cc engine that is both powerful and efficient. Mazda is confident of another year of exceptional growth, and has raised the annual combined sales target (every model) to more than 40,000 units. http://www.mazda.co.th 30
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BANGKOK CITY CHANNEL (TRUE 76) every Saturday 2200-2300 and on Asean TV ( True 99)
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every Saturday 2100-2200
FOLLOW TONY AND COURTNEY with new equipments, destinations, updated golf courses in Thailand and new golf tips ON BUSINESS GOLF BANGKOK CITY CHANNEL (TRUE 76) every Saturday 2200-2300 and on Asean TV ( True 99) every Saturday 2100-2200 Brought to you by
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Behind the scenes at the Thailand Open… Andre Stolz from Australia was this year’s winner of the Thailand Open walking away with a cheque for US$180,000, but the real winners were the volunteers at Suwan Golf and Country Club who worked through the humidity, rain and thunder to put on a first class event. Pity there were not more spectators as they missed some excellent golf.
Lucky I passed my Maths exam
Pariya Junhasavasdikul enjoys a good read! I need energy!
Mother and Daughter volunteers 32
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OK they are my sponsors too!
Enforcing all these rules is tough! www.thaigolf-news.com
Golf Classified
Weekday Baht2,300 Weekend Baht3,400 Located at 27km point on Bangna – Trad road, from Bangkok on Bangna – Chonburi expressway. Tel: +66 (0) 2 707 3820-5 www.vintagegolfthai.com
Rancho Charnvee Country Club Weekday Baht1,500 Weekend Baht2,600 Located 2 hours drive North East of Bangkok in Khao Yai National Park. Tel;+66 (0) 8 8375 4466 www.ranchcharnveegolf.com
Weekday Baht2,500 Weekend Baht3,500 Located approx 2 hours outside Bangkok near Bangnamprieo Chachoengsao. Tel: +66(0)38 835-555 www.lotusvalley.co.th
Beach front home on Lamai Beach, Samui. Cha-node Title Deed 458 sq.wah Price only: BHT 50 million Contact: Jitsarn@yahoo.com 085-977-6301
Sports days on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Baht800 for 18 holes. Located 1 hour from Bangkok on Chonburi expressway Tel: 080 449 2266 www.khaokheowgolf.com
All week Baht3,500. The club offers 27 holes of top flight gold designed by Jack Nicklaus and Schmidt & Curly Gold Design. Course A is the mountain course. Course B is the lake course. Course C is the valley course. Located in Cha-Am at the 212km turn off on the Bangkok to Hua Hin expressway Tel: +66 (0) 32 709222 www.springfieldresort.com
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TEE OFFers
Send your club offers to: editor@thaigolf-news.com New Boutique Hotel Offers… Stay 3 nights pay for 2…
Radisson Blu Pimnara Pimnara Boutique Hotel in Phuket is a new hotel located inside Jungceylon Patong’s shopping centre. Each room has been designed by 15 Thai Contempory Artists. I am sure the other half will hardly moan when you tell her you’re going to play golf on the island and you’ll both be staying near all those shops! The other good news is the hotel has some very reasonable rates until the end of October during their soft opening. Standard rooms are Baht2, 450 and their Superior rooms are only Baht2, 950. www.pimnaraboutiquehotel.com
Radission Blu Resort Phuket have an offer until the end of October with deluxe rooms from only Baht3,990 including their sumptuous breakfast. Stay two nights and they will throw for free a third night at this beautiful resort on the southern tip of Phuket. www.radissonblu. com/resort-phuket
Stay and Play at Royal Hills…
New FREE electronic newsletter for readers….. Discounts…Shotguns….Hotel offers!!!
Discounted rounds! From time to time we at Thai Golf News receive discounted green fee vouchers from a number of leading golf clubs around Thailand. We also hear about shotgun tournaments well in advance, hotel promotions and other great product offers. Therefore we have decided to send out a regular electronic newsletter informing readers how to take advantage of these great discounts and special offers. If you or any of your friends are keen to receive our TGN Newsletters, then just drop us an email at editor@thaigolf-news.com stating ‘Newsletter’ and start saving straight away. •34 THAI• THAI GOLFGOLF NEWS NEWS • ISSUE • ISSUE ELEVEN Nine
Stay and Play… If you checked out our report on page 26 on the Royal Hills Golf Resort, then you may like to take advantage of their Stay and Play packages. They include a day’s golf on their 18 hole course, a deluxe twin shared room and an American Breakfast all for Baht1, 400 per person including taxes and service charges. If you want to stay over a weekend then the cost is only Baht2,100 per person. The Resort also has an excellent spa, an enormous swimming pool and of course masses of fresh air too! This offer is valid to the end of September 2011. www.royalhillsresort.com www.thaigolf-news.com