The ClubHouse Feb 2012 by The ClubHouse

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ISSUE 7 FEBRUARY 2012

SMASHING 2012! The latest offering of clubs & balls to hit the market

BUILDING CHAMPIONS

Kyi Hla Han on taking the Asian Tour forward

THE ART OF DEFEAT In the actions of men, and especially of Princes, from which there is no appeal, the end justifies the means

THE TEAM Chief Golf Writer Edward Saminathan Sub-Editors Lina Abdul Wahab, Khalidah Jamil Evelyn Gan Contributors Andrew Myles, Bradford Walterhouse , Jason Winter, Justine Moss, Mark Bates, Normas Yakin, Richard Fellner, Scott Kramer, Shaun Moulds, Official Photographer T. Ravi Chitty Brand Manager B.N. Murali Art Director Siva Yoham Jalaguvalan Operations Associate Suzila Afirah Abdul Rauf

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- Niccoló Machiavelli, The Prince (1537)

More often than not and particularly inherent in Asian societies, we give emphasis to winning more than actual competition itself. From a young age, we have been taught, groomed and sometimes forced by circumstances to finish tops - whether it be at school, on the playing field or even when we cut queues at the check-out or traffic light. My late father, like many other parents, would never accept his children, in particular myself, playing second fiddle in anything and if I recall his quote correctly, “No one remembers the guys who didn’t finish first.” But it was him also who taught me to take defeat on my chin. I remember how I had finished fourth in a race when I was 11 and as I was about to make a quit exit before the prize presentation started, he pulled me back into my seat and told me something that still rings in my head until today - “You’re not going to disrespect the three guys who beat you fair and square. Now sit down and watch because I want you to remember that feeling of not being on that podium.” I recall sinking in my seat and tearing up, not because I was disappointed about finishing fourth but because deep inside, I knew I had disappointed him. But as the saying goes “What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger” so here I am today, still trying to win every other day. And before you wonder where I’m getting at, the issue I’m trying to address is about amateurs and in particular juniors skipping the prize presentation once they fail to win something in a tournament. Prize presentations may seem like a chore to many of us, especially so in Malaysia when it can drag for hours at times but if you can spend four to five hours in the hot sun playing golf, how bad can sitting in the comfort of air-conditioning be. C

I can understand that everyone may have emergencies and even appointments to catch occasionally but things become pretty obvious when players start skipping presentations especially when they don’t win. CM

INPRESS MEDIA SDN BHD

Even the best athletes in the world will admit that they can’t win every time; that defeat is as much part of the game as winning is. One only has to look at Tiger Woods who has played in 62 Major Championship and as the record books will tell you, has won only 14. That means in the other 48 Majors, he lost to someone better.

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If you’re a junior golfer or even a parent reading this, please bear this in mind. Before you can become a champion, before you even learn the art of winning, you first need to learn how to lose with dignity. Because for all the championship you may have lined up on the mantel shelf, I’m sure you don’t want to be remembered as a sore loser. Learn to respect your opponents and the game; we’re talking about a time-honoured game of tradition here after all.

CMY

(937122-A)

Advertising: info@theclubhouse.com.my Editorial: news@theclubhouse.com.my Subscription: subscription@theclubhouse.com.my Website: www.theclubhouse.com.my Printed by: TANKOH PRINT SDN BHD (889517-W) No. 5 & 7, Jalan Industri PBP 11, Taman Industri Pusat Bandar Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan © INPRESS MEDIA Sdn Bhd. All material in The ClubHouse is strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Every care has been taken in compiling the contents of this magazine but we assume no responsibility for the effects arising therefore. All information is correct at press time.

Be a fierce competitor on the fairways, not off it. Ps. Missing the presence of my number one reader and critique. Dad, rest in peace.

Edward Saminathan Chief Golf Writer news@theclubhouse.com.my

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REGULARS 10 MALAYSIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION 11 INSIDE THE ROPES 12 MY JUNIORS 13 INDUSTRY TALK 14 IN THE BAG 20 AROUND THE GLOBE 38 GOLF DIARY 39 WHERE TO GOLF 40 SUBSCRIBE

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FEATURES 32 GOLF TRAVEL

COLUMNS 23 THE RIGHT FIT WITH TITLIEST 24 COVERING CARLSBAD BY SCOTT KRAMER 25 GOLF DOWN UNDER WITH RICHARD FELLNER 26 TOUR TALK WITH ASIAN TOUR 27 GOLFING TALES FROM THE LION CITY BY JUSTINE MOSS 28 UNCHARTED COURSE WITH NORMAS YAKIN 29 A TEACHER’S TALE BY BRADFORD WALTERHOUSE 30 SHORT GAME FIXES WITH ANDREW MYLES

BUILDING CHAMPIONS The Asian Tour means business when it talks about moving forward and grooming world-class Asian champions. In an exclusive interview at the tail-end of last year, the Tour’s supremo Kyi Hla Han shared his thoughts with Edward Saminathan on the Tour’s long-term growth, an improved 2012 schedule and the continuous niggles that shroud Asian golf.

Still have it: Kyi Hla showing how it’s done to some of the Tour’s players

As we step forward into a new season for the Asian Tour, how would you sum up your 2011 season?

We obviously have room for improvement but we remain positive. Even with the global economic downturn and the economic challenges that we’ve got, the good sign is the sponsors are willing to put their money into golf. The Asian economy has remained stable and I think a lot of companies are still going to have to market their brand and we’ve been working hard to get the right branding with our TV distribution and media distribution. There’s no doubt that the marketplace is crowded but the positive thing is all the sponsors are willing to put their money into golf. I see it as a positive and a challenge to make our results stronger.

Myanmar Open presented by Air Bagan [held from February 2-5] as well as the Handa Faldo Cambodian Classic, which are making a return following a one-year lapse.

From the aspect of tournaments and tour operations, were you happy with 2011?

What can we expect from the Asian Tour in 2012?

There had been some unavoidable disappointments obviously; we had a few postponements due to clashes of dates as well as cancellations like the King’s Cup, which had to be called off due to the flooding in Thailand. Other than that we have made some new ground and we’re looking forward to getting the 2012 season right.

We will sanction no fewer than 26 tournaments over the next 11 months spreading from the Far East in Japan and Korea via our collaboration with the Japan Golf Tour and Korean Golf Tour as well as our traditional jaunt to Switzerland for the Omega European Masters, thanks to our long-standing alliance with The European Tour. To date, the total prize purse stands at over US$50 million

When you look at the number of events on the Tour’s schedule and the prize money on offer, how close would you say the Tour is to its ideal level?

It’s been pretty good and the second half of the season especially saw some excellent tournaments going on. The highlights of the season overall had been the number of exciting young talents coming through and playing well - we had the young 17-year-old Miguel Tabuena really light up the Tour at the end of the season - it was really unfortunate that he missed on a card . So, that’s good to see for us.

How much has the global economic climate affected the Tour directly?

Various discussions are currently in progress to add several other tournaments as well but we’re happy to welcome the Zaykabar

Four tournaments - the Panasonic Open India, Indonesian Masters presented by PNTS, CJ Invitational Hosted by K.J. Choi and Thailand Golf Championship will continue to feature significantly in 2012 after making successful debuts last season while the Macau Open, the Hero Indian Open and the Iskandar Johor Open will announce the dates of their events in due course.

Well, we still have got a lot of work to do. I still want to get it past 30 to 32 events a year. It is common knowledge - traditionally we’ve always struggled in the middle of the year. The first and final quarter of the year have always been solid, so that’s our biggest challenge to get tournaments into that portion of the year, even if it’s not necessarily ideal from a weather or corporate sponsorship point of view. But we’re confident that as golf gets more popular

in this part of the world, we can fill that void in two or three years.

India has joined Malaysia and Thailand as one of your most frequent stops on Tour. How important is the sub-continent to the growth of the game? India has been fantastic, especially from a player’s point of view because we have a wealth of young players coming through the ranks to replace guys such as Jeev Milkha Singh, Jyoti Randhawa, Arjun Atwal and Shiv Kapur - all solid players who have now gone on to ply their trade on the European and PGA Tours. We’ve got the likes of Anirbhan Lahiri, Sujjan Singh, Chiragh Kumar and not forgetting, the ISPS Handa Singapore Classic champion Himmat Rai who have become household names. For us, India is such a huge untapped market and a lot of sponsors are very much interested in that market, so we have been spending a lot of time and effort to get new tournaments into India. We have a unique partnership with the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and this is reflected by the fact that its president Gautam Thapar is also on our board. So, in the long run, we’re looking at more South Asian tournaments.

What would your next area of growth be?

This augurs well with the 2016 Rio Olympics being the horizon; who knows we may have a Malaysian player making the mark in the world rankings to qualify on merit.

Probably more tournaments north of Thailand? Yes, pretty much. We’re working our way in Taiwan with a couple of event and last year we had KJ Choi host the inaugural CJ Invitational, which was a milestone for us in terms of a player hosting an event on Tour and we appreciate that sort of support.

When we take a closer look at your schedule, autumn is obviously the most congested period of the year. Do you view this as a problem? It’s a good problem to have but yes, it remains a problem. I think the main thing is that a lot of sponsors demand that star players which are players from the European and PGA Tours - make appearances in their tournament and their availability is pretty much after September, which is why our biggest cosanctioned events - the Barclays Singapore Open, the Hong Kong Open and the Iskandar Johor Open take place almost consecutively during that time of the year.

If you look at our existing schedule, Malaysia obviously remains a strong future potential with the Maybank Malaysian Open and the Iskandar Johor Open as our two biggest tournaments. On top of that we have the CIMB Asia Pacific Classic, Malaysia - we hope the field will expand, so that more regional and Malaysia’s own stars can be a part of it.

We’ve also had a great event in Selangor annually and also a handful of Asian Development Tour events, which is set to expand in 2012. We’re strongly looking at an event across in East Malaysia and other regions outside of the Klang Valley - so, we’re still tapping the market here. We’re also trying to give more Malaysian players the opportunity to play on Tour more regularly and the signs are healthy because we’re seeing an improvement in their standard of play.

With 2011 Order of Merit champion Juvic Pagusan

BATTLE OF WILLS? Has the situation with OneAsia changed? Right now, we feel we’re just going to concentrate our own work and get more tournaments for our members. It goes without saying that our members have been united behind us, they know that the Asian Tour is a viable tour with good fundamentals. It’s obviously not a pretty situation and it’s not good for golf in Asia either but we have to hold our ground and the support from the market forces as well as our partners in the International Federation of Professional Golf Tours has been encouraging. In the long run, I am confident we will prevail but yes, it has confused the market a fair bit and it has strained our players a little, so it’s not a great spot to be in. What would you say about the comparison drawn that the top ten on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit earned less than the top ten of OneAsia? While earnings are important gauge mark, I don’t think it’s the final thing to it. Overall, our top-65 players earn more on a more consistent basis than on our rival’s tour. You just have to look at our solid membership and the playing opportunities that we accord to our members. In my consultation with our members, the younger players have expressed their wish to participate in as many tournaments possible to hone their skills and by giving them that quality platform to perform and excel. Our events are accessible and our operations side do their best to assist our members in getting the best rates be it airfare or accommodation arrangement across Asia. Our top players get into the Majors and World Golf Championships and a host of invites to European and PGA Tours events and that’s important for us because our events have consistently accorded more Official World Golf Ranking points and that’s important if a player has the Olympics in his mind. The introduction of mega-rich exhibition events in China have surely shaken up the establishment in Asia. What’s your take on these events? It’s not good and I believe strongly that these exhibition matches don’t really do anything for the development of Chinese golf or golf in Asia. It’s timely that these events start working towards gaining sanction in the near future. In our OWGR meetings at The Masters and British Open last year, we came to a consensus not to encourage such events by reducing the number of ranking points on offer in such events.

How would you describe the partnership with the European Tour today as opposed to a few years ago? We enjoy a great working relationship with our European counterparts and we’ve been co-sanctioning events with them since 1999. Challenges are normal in any relationship but it’s been largely fruitful and beneficial to both Tours today.

I feel that on both sides, the players understand the importance of joint-sanctioned events and especially the Asian Tour members have benefited from that exposure. You only have to look at some of our players who have earned exemptions after winning a co-sanctioned event such as Thongchai Jaidee, Jeev Milkha Singh as well as Noh Seung-yul - these are guys who have taken advantage of going to Europe and playing and you can see how much it has developed their game and their careers. At present, the balance is good - joint-sanctioned events take up less than a third of our total tournaments, so it remains a positive path for the future.

On that same line, are you happy that many of your top players have now gone on to ply their trades on the bigger tours on a permanent basis? Is that something good for Asian golf as a whole? It’s not really that good from the Tour’s perspective because our sponsors too demand that the top guys in Asia play in their tournaments, but our members have been exemplary, trying to play in our important events and supporting our tour - they’re always coming back. If you look at a player like KJ, he started by plying his trade on the Asian PGA Tour (the predecessor of the Asian Tour) way back in 1995 before slowly working his way into the PGA Tour, where he’s an established name now. I think part of him giving back by hosting his own invitational event, who knows in the future, we may have a Jeev Milkha Singh

event in India and a Thongchai Jaidee event in Thailand. They’re happy to give back and our players are a helpful lot - be it in guiding the younger guys coming up the ranks or just being supportive in our efforts forward.

There is a growing number of nonAsian players in your ranks, reflecting the Asian Tour’s status as one of the world’s elite tours. Will there come a time where we would draw the line and give Asians priority? Currently, I think our entry criteria has a good balance - and players from all sides of the world are happy because it is essentially a system based on merit. I think we have players from over 30 nationalities currently plying their trade here and if you look closely, the top guys are still very much from Asia. From a sponsor’s viewpoint, I feel they appreciate the balance - naturally, everyone wants an Asian champion at their event but I think the Tour today promotes a growing internationalism appeal for the market forces. Our television distribution goes worldwide to households in over 80 countries, so it’s a positive way forward for us. I have chats with the players regularly and to date, everyone is comfortable.

In terms of your co-operation with the domestic tours in the region, how do you reconcile the fact that as a player-based organisation, you no longer work exclusively with the professional golfers association of the respective countries? We basically work directly with the touring players organisations, so it does not necessarily have to take a form of a PGA per se. We’re a player-based organisation and we go to other countries and work with organisations that are structured around the same base as ourselves. So, we try to work with the bodies that best represent the interests of their touring players. For us, our organisation is about tournament players and we want to really help develop, groom and give opportunities to tournament players, especially the younger boys because they are the future of the Asian Tour. So, it only makes sense to work with the likeminded organisations with the same goals and

aspirations like ours in those countries. Currently, we give national exemptions to the top players from the PGTI, the Philippine Golf Tour, the Thailand Golf Tour as well as the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Tour.

What’s a fair assessment of the progress made by the Asian Development Tour which enters its third year in 2012? It’s slowly growing and we are constantly working on improving the prize money, just getting it that tad higher will definitely open the eyes of the market forces. We are obviously still testing the waters but the support from our players has been good and we hope to build on that with new events in 2012.

IN FOCUS C

CMY

I feel that timing is always going to be an issue and even in other parts of the world such as in Australia and South Africa, there are tournaments going on concurrently during that period. October to November is always going to be a challenge to us to fit all the big tournaments in but it’s not something that we can’t find a solution or work around.

Kyi Hla Han has provided a guiding hand in the development of professional golf in Asia since the early 1990s. Rated amongst Asia’s best players during his prime, he was one of the founding members of the former Asian PGA Tour in 1994. Well-respected and admired in the international golfing arena, Kyi Hla won the Order of Merit in Asia in 1999 and played globally holding cards throughout his career in Australia, Europe and the US. When the region’s players decided to form a new player-representative body, in 2004 to chart their own future and destiny, Kyi Hla was elected as the chairman of the board of directors. Subsequently, in November 2006 he was appointed as the Tour’s executive chairman, heading the management team entrusted with the task of charting the development and future of the Asian Tour.

MALAYSIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION

2012 National and Development teams named

he Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) together with the Malaysian Ladies Golf Association (MALGA) recently named a 14-player strong national and development squads on February 1. The players selected have the potential to represent Malaysia on the world stage this year particularly at the South East Asian Amateur Team Championship for the Putra Cup, Lion City Cup and Santi Cup to be held in Indonesia in August as well as the World Amateur Team Championship for the Eisenhower Trophy and Espirito Santo Trophy in October.

The men’s elite team comprises of Muhd Afif Mohd Razif (Penang), Chan Tuck Soon (KL) and Low Khai Jei (Perak) while Nur Durriyah Damian (KL), Loy Hee Ying (Johor) and Vivienne Chin (Sabah) make up the ladies team.

organized and run,” said MGA vice president Low Teck San, who is also the national team committee chairman. “I am also happy to see that the level of performance had improved over the years.

Completing the roster are five boys in the PELAPIS team namely Amir Nazrin (Selangor), Albright Chong (Sabah), Jordan Jude (Sarawak), Paul San (Selangor); Ervin Chang (KL) as well as girls Kelie Kan Kah Yan (Selangor), Siti Zulaikaa Shaari (Selangor) and Nur Eliana (Melaka).

“We have decided to limit the slots of the elite team to three as we have our overseas based players while the PELAPIS team to five boys and three girls,” said Teck San. “As it is a development team, the age is limited to 15 and below so as to give us ample time to groom them.”

The National Trial 2012 which was held over five rounds at Kelab Golf Perkhidmatan Awam and the Royal Selangor Golf Club from January 16-20 saw Mohammad Afif topping the men’s division with a five-over-par 360 while Nur Durriyah claimed the ladies’ division with 10-over-par 370 total. “It was a great tournament that was successfully

“This is the second year that Sabah and Sarawak players have been included in the team which shows the progress that these two states has made over the years to groom their players.” The overseas based players identified are Gavin Kyle Green, Muhammad Arie Irawan, Kelly Tan and Iman Ahmad Nordin.

MGA & UUM INK SMART PARTNERSHIP MOU

he Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) and Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) recently inked a memorandum of understanding to cement their existing educational partnership and explore further opportunities to improve the quality of human capital in the local golf industry. Under the memorandum of understanding, MGA will work hand-in-hand with the university to set up a national golf academy at UUM’s main campus in Sintok, Kedah. The academy will function as a recognised academic and training institution for golf management and will focus its attention on producing talent and human capital to meet the ever-growing needs of the industry. Since 2010, the university has collaborated with MGA to provide an avenue for aspiring amateurs, especially national representatives to continue their tertiary education while

having access to good golfing facility on-site to continue their amateur golf career. The university currently offers three degree programmes namely Bachelor of Business Administration with Honours, Bachelor of Tourism with Honours and Bachelor of Communication with Honours (golf management) as well as certificate programmes in course marshalling, coaching, golf club management, golf rules and etiquette and golf event management. UUM was represented by vice chancellor Datuk Dr Mohamed Mustafa Ishak while MGA had its president Tan Sri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor on hand during the signing ceremony at Royal Selangor Golf Club on January 27. In his speech, Dr Mohamed said that with the university being declared as a centre of excellence for golf recently by Deputy Prime

Minister Tan Sri Muhiyddin Yassin, their vision was to promote UUM as best golf management organisation in the country. “Many of our golfers don’t have an avenue to continue their education. The academy will create opportunities for them to remain in the golfing industry after their playing career. Golf is a lucrative industry with job opportunities in administration as well as other golf related activities,” he said. Mohd Anwar said the national association will benefit from the university’s know-hows, especially in improving the mental aptitude of national amateurs. “We strongly believe that MGA can benefit from the expertise available at UUM. Through research and development, we are confident that we can identify the common flaws beleaguering our amateurs and develop an analytical approach towards strengthening their mental strength,” he explained.

INSIDE THE ROPES

AIRIL TURNS BACK THE CLOCK WITH PERLIS VICTORY

BATTLE ROYALE FOR MMO SLOTS AT KLGCC

With his father and childhood friends in attendance, Airil who took up the game of golf at the tender age of 10 at the same tract, overcame sustained pressure from the trio of Shaifubari Muda, Md Rashid Ismail and S. Sivachandhran to claim a slender two-stroke victory with a winning total of seven-over 295.

The pre-qualifying tournament will provide the opportunity to some of Malaysia’s brightest prospects to battle it out for a chance to tee-off alongside some of the golfing world’s biggest stars as well as the best players from both the European and Asian Tours at the 51st edition of the National Open from April 12 – 15.

he memories came flooding back to Airil Rizman Zahari as he held on to his overnight lead to claim the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Perlis Classic, despite only achieving a closing 75 at the Putra Golf Club on February 11.

It was the 33-year-old’s tenth career victory; there was a sense of relief on the Perlis native’s face after putting an end to a barren run which dates back to 2007, when he became the second Malaysian to win an Asian Tour event at the Pakistan Open. Rookie Mohd Azman Basharuddin once again underlined his potential, carding his second 74 of the week to round up in sole fifth with a four-day haul of ten-over-par 298. Taking a share of sixth on 11-over-par 299 were the young pair of Wilson Choo and Melakan Jonathan Pang, who nonetheless posted the tournament’s lowest round of two-under 70 on the final day. Having cancelled an early birdie on the fourth with a bogey on seventh, Airil made the turn with a solid three-stroke advantage over the chasing pack of Shaifubari and Siva. However, lapses in concentration almost derailed his march to the title as he bogeyed two straight holes from the 13th, before dropping another shot on the tough par-three 16th. With his rivals’ failure to capitalise on the mistakes, two par saves on the remaining holes were enough for him to collect the winner’s purse of RM21,000. “I am so happy to win here at the Putra Golf Club where I started my golf. It’s been a long time since I won two titles back in 2007 and I’m really thankful to God that I won today in front of my dad and my friends,” said Airil. Considering the demanding nature of the golf course with swirling winds coming into play on the back nine, Airil was glad to stick to a simple game plan during the final round. “I didn’t want to be the one doing the attacking out there today. The idea was just to hit the fairways from the tee, hit the green, make two putts and walk away. I would have loved to score four-over or better but really, I’m not going to complain after burying the duck,” added a trimmer Airil, who emerged as the 12th local winner on the burgeoning domestic tour. Leading final round scores 295 297 298 299 300 301

Airil Rizman 75-72-73-75 Shaifubari Muda 73-75-76-73; S. Sivachandhran 75=71-76-75; Md Rashid Ismail 73-73-74-775 Azman Basharuddin 73-74-77-74 John Pang 77-76-76-70; Wilson Choo 77-74-74-74 Akhmal Tarmizee 71-81-75-73; R. Nachimuthu 74-76-71-79 M. Sasidaran 79-75-75-72

ive coveted spots will be up for grabs during the two-day Maybank Malaysian Open National Qualifier set for March 5 to 6 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club.

Title sponsor Maybank has once again reiterated their commitment to developing Malaysian golf champions with a large allocation of 22 invites to top local professionals and amateurs to participate in the tournament – including the top five finishers at the national qualifier. The local challenge is once again expected to be spearheaded by Danny Chia who is the sole Malaysian to qualify automatically by virtue of being placed in the top-65 of the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit. The 39-year-old Maybank ambassador has consistently finished as the best local performer in the last few editions of the Open. His ranking will be further boosted by his performance at the PGA Tour-sanctioned CIMB Asia Pacific Classic Malaysia late last year when he finished a solid joint 13th. In addition, Maybank has also extended invites to Nicholas Fung and Maybank ambassador Shaaban Hussin. “Malaysians like heroes and we share a common dream that one day a local golfer will stand tall as the winner of the Maybank Malaysian Open. This year, in pursuit of that goal, Maybank has extended our invites to two capable local stars- Fung and Shaaban,” said Maybank chairman Tan Sri Megat Zaharuddin Megat Mohd Nor. “Both players are known to have the fighting spirit and I am confident that they will put on a good show in front of the home galleries. We have gone to great lengths to ensure that there is a strong local representation in the tournament to reflect its stature as the respected National Open. We encourage our Malaysian fans to support them in a big way during the tournament,” he added. Last year’s PGM Tour Order of Merit winner R. Nachimuthu heads the list of GlobalOne invites which includes Md Rashid Ismail, M. Sasidaran, S. Murthy and Airil Rizman Zahari. They will be joined by Sukree Othman, S. Sivachandhran and Ben Leong through invites by the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA). The six amateur invites will be decided by MGA in due course.

MY JUNIORS

SELANGOR AIMS FOR FIFTH STRAIGHT MSSM CROWN

owered by some of the country’s top junior amateurs, Selangor are aiming for a fifth-straight overall title at the Malaysian Schools Sport Council (MSSM) national championship from March 7 - 10 in Ipoh, Perak. The state will be represented by 18 players who topped the standings in their respective age-group categories at the recently concluded Selangor Schools Sport Council (MSSS) state championship at Bukit Beruntung Golf & Country Club. Contingent head Jamaluddin Abdul Kadir said that they were confident of doing well with the players being in prime shape. “We hope that with the intensive preparation, Selangor will once again top the standings at the national meet. We have some good quality players at our disposal.”

Results - Selangor Schools Sport Council (MSSS) State Championship Boys’ Under-12 1st Muhammad Afif Mohd Fathi (Hulu Langat) 2nd Adam Arif Madzri (Petaling Utama) 3rd Rhaasrikanesh Kanavathi (Klang)

159 (77-82) 163 (79-84) 173 (85-88)

Girls’ Under-12 1st Geraldine Wong Xiao Xuan (Hulu Langat) 2nd Liyana Azizan Durisic (Gombak) 3rd Wan Marsya Aqilah Mohd Nazri (Gombak)

191 (93-98) 210 (97-113) 264 (120-264)

Boys’ Under-15 1st Galven Kendall Green (Petaling Utama) 2nd Chang Ervin (Hulu Langat) 3rd Danial Azizan Durisic (Gombak)

154 (79-75) 154 (77-77) 154 (77-77)

Girls’ Under-15 1st SIti Zulaikhaa Shaari (Petaling Perdana) 2nd Ong Shi Qing (Petaling Utama) 3rd Raeysha Surendran (Klang)

165 (85-80) 172 (82-90) 182 (90-92)

Boys’ Under-18 1st Mohamed Izzad Ibrahim (Hulu Langat) 2nd Muhamad Harith Halimi Ali (Hulu Langat) 3rd Mohammad Asyraaf Rosli (Hulu Langat)

155 (80-75) 155 (75-80) 157 (80-77)

Girls’ Under-18 1st Genevieve Ling I-rynn (Petaling Perdana) 155 (82-73) 2nd Nuralissa Abdullah (Gombak) 173 (84-89) 3rd Celine Lim Shwu Ling (Petaling Perdana) 180 (89-91)

RSGC junior meet to be held in March The inaugural RSGC Junior Amateur Open will be held at the iconic Royal Selangor Golf Club in Kuala Lumpur from March 13 to 15. The three-day golf championship has four categories - Group A (boys’ Under-18); Group B (girls’ Under-18); Group C ( boys’ Under-15) and Group D (girls’ Under-15). There will be a cut-off after 18 holes with the 20 and tie for boys and 15 and ties for girls advancing to the final round. The entry fee is RM300 per participant. For more information, visit www.rsgc.com.my or contact 03-9206 3333.

INDUSTRY TALK

MALAYSIA TO PLAY HOST TO ASEAN SENIOR’S MEET

he Senior Golfers Soceity of Malayssia (SGSM) will organise the 29th ASEAN Senior Golfers Amateur Championship 2012 in Kuala Lumpur from September 25-27. The championship will see 260 senior golfers from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and host Malaysia taking part in the three-day tournament which will be divided into stroke pay for the team and individual categories as well as individual Stableford category. At the general meeting of the Confederation of ASEAN Senior Golfers Associations (CASGA) at the ancient city of Ayutthaya in Thailand a fortnight ago, Malaysia announced the date and program for both the golfers and their spouses as well. “We want to showcase our top two courses in the country as such we chose Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club as well as The Mines Resort because we wanted the senior golfers to enjoy their rounds of golf as well as their stay in the city,” said SGSM president Tan Sri Sallehuddin Mohamed. “This will be a good opportunity for us to promote Malaysia as a regional golf tourism destination,” he added.

At the Ayutthaya meeting, Malaysia proposed a few standard operating procedure (SOP) which will be put into practice for the first time during the tournament. The most important is the yardage and for the first time, the length overall for the strokeplay category will be set at 6,500 yards while for the Stableford format it will be at 6200 yards, with an allowance of 100 yards to suit the tee of the course. The issue of ‘bogus’ handicap was also raised and debated at length. In the past there were players who came back with excessive under par (65 and below) and start nursing their handicap on the second and final

GOLFEST TO MAKE WELCOME RETURN

round. In order to create more fairness to all competitors, it was also unanimously agreed that the maximum score will be capped at four-under-par per round and the Arbitrary Revision of Handicap shall be put in place after each round. Datuk A S Khamis, who presented the proposals on behalf of SGSM said, “This check and balance system is usually practiced in handicap event for international golf competitions involving players from many countries. It will surely create a more enjoyable outing among the competitors of the participating countries.”

he highly anticipated Golfest Kuala Lumpur 2012 is set to once again thrill golf fans from March 29 to April 1 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club Driving Range Complex. Noted as the nation’s largest golf demo extravaganza, golfers around the country have plenty of reasons to rejoice as this festival promises nothing short of excitement as it provides the platform for all the major golf brands to flaunt their latest technological advancements and new products. The four-day golf festival will give the perfect opportunity to golf enthusiasts to try out the latest golf equipment from the top golf equipment brands in the world. Lifestyle booths and an exciting lineup of programs and activities promises to offer continuous fun and entertainment to all visitors, including live band performances at the R&R Cafe daily from 6pm onwards.

ON THE MOVE

All the leading golf brands namely TaylorMade, Nike, Titleist, Ping, Yamaha, Akira, OnOff, Wilson Staff, Williams Golf and many others will occupy the entire middle tier of the driving range (25 bays) with 23 demo bays setup for showcasing golf equipment and 2 show bays at the center for activities and competition. Visitors can also win attractive prizes in numerous mini-competitions as well as receive complimentary short coaching sessions with golf professionals from MST Golf Academy. Badrul Abdul Razak has taken over the vacant position of golf manager at Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah effective January 2012 and brings with him a wealth of experience in golf operations and event management.

Johan Fariz takes over as the head of public relations at Glenmarie Golf & Country Club and has been tasked with promoting the club as well as building stronger rapport with the media and industry leaders.

Calling it a dream move, Ungku Ghazni Ungku Ahmad takes on the responsibility as the new golf manager of Kota Permai Golf & Country Club, where he will focus his attention on meeting the expectations of both members and visiting players.

IN THE BAG

In a move set to ignite the marketplace, TaylorMade Golf Company debuts RocketBallz, R11-S line of clubs and balls “Setting a new standard”

ROCKETBALLZ AND ROCKETBALLZTour DRIVER

Revolutionary driver franchise incorporating TaylorMade’s patented Flight Control Technology (FCT) packaged into a modern, aerodynamically shaped traditional clubhead thanks to TaylorMade’s Ultra-Thin Wall (UTW) casting process and Thick-Thin crown design.

RRP:

RM1,680

Lofts: 9.5°, 10.5° and 12.5° (high launch) Shaft: Mitsubishi-Rayon RB50 50g (S, SR & R) and 40g (L)

“Deliver 17 yards of added distance”

ROCKETBALLZ FAIRWAYS & RESCUE

Combining the RocketBallz technology with increased face,size lower CG location and advanced playability features in a lightweight package for remarkable increased in distance.

RRP:

RM1,080 (fairways) RM980 (rescues)

Lofts:

Fairways -15°, 17°, 19° & 21° Rescues - 19°, 22° & 25°

Shafts:

Fairways - Mitsubishi-Rayon RB50 50g (S, SR & R) Rescues - Mitsubishi-Rayon RB55 60g (S, SR & R) and 45g (L)

“Great distance, outstanding forgiveness & workability”

ROCKETBALLZ IRONS

A progressive and dynamic set engineered to deliver effortless distance and a higher and straighter ball flight with new Toe-Bar feature for improved accuracy.

RRP [4-SW] :

RM4,380 (Graphite) RM3,980 (Steel)

Shafts: Mitsubishi-Rayon RB-55 graphite 55g (S & R) and 45g (L)

“Delivers bomb with bite”

ROCKETBALLZ GOLF BALLS

A three-piece multi-layered golf ball with proprietary REACT™ core technology and new SPEEDMANTLE™ for increased distance and improved spin for exceptional short game performance.

RRP:

RM128

IN THE BAG “The most adjustable driver in golf”

R11-S AND R11-S TP DRIVERS

Feature an all-new 5-way Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP), improved aerodynamics and a USGA-maximum 460cc modern-classical clubhead with TaylorMade’s proprietary Flight Control Technology (FCT) and Movable Weight Technology (MWT).

RRP:

RM2,190 (Asian Spec)

Lofts:

9° & 10°

Shaft:

Fujikura Motore 60 (S) & 55 (SR & R)

“Maximum performance, increased distance”

R11-S AND R-11S TP FAIRWAYS

Classically shaped and incorporating Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP) Technology and a more versatile Flight Control Technology (FCT) sleeve for added adjustability allowing up to 24 different settings.

RRP:

RM1,290

Lofts:

14° ,15.5° ,17° & 19°

Shaft:

Fujikura Motore 60 (S) & 55 (SR & R)

15 “The next generation of white putter technology”

GHOST MANTRA PUTTER

High MOI putter packaged neatly in a more traditional one-piece neomallet shape with a PURE ROLL Surlyn insert for better forwardspin minus skidding.

RRP:

RM850

RM950

“Tour proven, premium performance”

GHOST TOUR PUTTERS

Carefully refined Tour-proven models with more durable white finish for enhanced contrast against greens and zero glare. Equipped with PURE ROLL Titallium-alloy insert and customisable weights.

RRP:

RM750 (available April 2012 onwards)

“Affordable Tour performance”

“First 5-piece now longer and softer”

Three-piece, tour caliber golf ball designed to increase spin without sacrificing distance featuring TaylorMade’s proprietary REACT core technology

28% lower compression core combined with TaylorMade’s unique Progressive Velocity design promoting lower driver spin for more distance and improved softer feel.

PENTA TP3 GOLF BALLS

RRP:

RM179

PENTA TP5 GOLF BALLS

RRP:

RM229

IN THE BAG

THE BEST KEEPS GETTING BETTER

Titleist unveil lastest top grade line of balls, debuts new Velocity micro-brand

hen the #1 ball company announces a slew of new dimpled creations, it’s always a good idea to sit up and take notice.

Aiming to strengthen their offerings for 2012, Titleist recently introduced three updated golf balls - NXT Tour, NXT Tour S and DT SoLo as well as a new addition to the top grade segment in the form of the distance-focused Velocity. Each has been designed to deliver the best in category quality and consistency, while providing a range of performance and preference options suited to golfers across every skill level of the game. The new offerings, all which are manufactured in Titleist’s world-class ball plants, will be available at all good golf stores in early March. Celebrating its decade-long presence in the market, the updated NXT Tour (RM140) and NXT Tour S (RM140) deliver the best scoring performance available in the non-urethane cover segment by delivering even longer distance while retaining its commanding scoring shot performance. The inside of the new NXT Tour features a three-piece construction with a large dual core with a slightly smaller soft center and higher volume outer core layer. The outside of the ball is a Fusablend cover, formulated by Titleist to produce the best combination of feel and distance. The cover contains 302 dimples in five different sizes. NXT Tour S, meanwhile, contains a low compression, highly resilient core in combination with a similar Fusablend cover for players looking for the same NXT performance but with a softer feel. Velocity (RM120) on the other hand fills a void that Titleist has wanted

to address with a ball powered for distance. The first all-new Titleist ball in 10 years, the orange-trimmed Velocity is a two-piece ball that features a proprietary exclusive high-speed LSX core technology and is encased in a NaZ² cover formulation that is the fastest in the company’s arsenal with 332 dimples. It is available in single- or double-digit numbers. These double digits are 00, 11, 22 and 33. The new DT SoLo (RM95) is the softest compression Titleist yet, producing an amazingly soft feel that has endeared the ball to many golfers. With a dimple count of 392, the cover is a blend of two soft Surlyn ionomers while the soft and fast core formulation results in penetrating ball flight with long roll out for excellent distance. In addition to being offered in white, two of these four new balls – the NXT Tour S and DT SoLo – will be available in yellow, though in two different shades. On the basis of extensive testing, Titleist is using a brighter three-color higher optic yellow on the NXT Tour S and a translucent yellow on the DT SoLo. Titleist South East Asia brand manager Rick Brown explained that while the company’s focus remained on the tour-grade Pro V1 and Pro V1x, it is keen on elevating the premium positioning of his topgrade segment. “It is important for Titleist to give our end-users a product that not only meets their performance requirement but also addressing their preference needs. Performance is what happens when you hit a golf ball, how it performs at impact whereby preference targets factors such as colour, number and price, which is an important selection criteria for the serious social golfer,” he said.

IN THE BAG

CREATING A NEW LEGACY

Once the exclusive domain of Japanese golfers, Callaway’s premium Legacy Series is now available across Asia and the latest line-up of forged Legacy Black will definitely appeal to intermediate to better players with its high control performance.

LEGACY BLACK DRIVER • • • • •

A 440cc traditional pear-shaped head features a premium forged Hyperbolic ELF Titanium cup face with Hyperbolic crown and all Ti body in a black PVD finish Utilises the successfully tested Hyperbolic Face Technology which reduces extra material through a chemical process to accurately control the shape of the face for increased hitting area and higher ball speed. Features 24g of internal weighting that helps square the ball for maximum smash factor at impact. Employs a new VAR Medallion that is designed to bring good feel and solid sound favoured by better players. Fitted with Speed Metallix shafts in SR or S flexes and available in lofts of 9.5 and 10.5. Custom shafts include Graphite Design’s TOUR AD I-65C and TOUR AD DJ-6 (S) and comes fitted with Golf Pride DD2 grip for solid feel and moist touch.

RRP: RM2,890

LEGACY BLACK FAIRWAY WOODS • • • • •

Moderately sized and features an original Callaway address shape that of a steel head, promoting easier address and a sense of ease. High-Strength Steel face with excellent repulsion for enhanced sense of bounce on impact, providing the comfortable feel favoured by better players. Lower CG placement creates higher trajectory while the forgiving sole shape improves turf interaction from any lie angle for stable distance performance. Employs Tour Hosel design allowing better players to shape their shots as well as control the shot trajectory. Fitted with Speed Metallix shafts in SR or S flexes and available in lofts of 13°, 15°, 18°, 21° and 24°. Custom shafts include Graphite Design’s TOUR AD I-65C and TOUR AD DJ-6 (S) and comes fitted with Golf Pride DD2 grip for solid feel and moist touch.

RRP: RM1,390

LEGACY BLACK HYBRIDS

• • • •

Configured to have a moderate head size for less offset and slightly flatter lie angle for better players who don’t want the head to turn over too much on impact. Employs the same High-Strength Steel face in the fairway woods for excellent repulsion while the ZERO Roll face technology promotes higher trajectory of any lie. A shorter CG length improves control performance while the forgiving sole shape improves turf interaction even from the thickest of roughs. Fitted with Speed Metallix shafts designed exclusively for Legacy Black Hybrids or a graphite option of Tour AD DI-75 Hybrid. Available in lofts of 18°, 21°, 24° and 27° and comes fitted with Golf Pride DD2 grip for solid feel and moist touch.

RRP: RM1,190

LEGACY BLACK IRONS • • • • • • •

Continues Roger Cleveland’s tradition of premium soft feeling irons providing distance plus ease of use and control. A straight leading edge and taller toe appeal to the better player while notch weighting in the toe and heel, plus an undercut cavity provide higher MOI and forgiveness. Utilises the VAR medallion to help reduce vibrations at impact. Forged from premium S20C steel, the Black Legacy has weaker lofts compared to previous generation Legacy Forged irons (26° 5-iron vs 24° 5 iron) for added focus on spin control and attacking the greens. Comes in two options of steel shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold S200 M10DB . M10DB and GS95 with Tour AD 85 by Graphite Design as the graphite option.

RRP: RM4,650 Available exclusively at

outlets

IN THE BAG

THE CORE REVOLUTION

The Nike SEA team led by general manager Peter Turnbull (thrid from right) unveil the 20XI ball franchise

Nike Golf unveils long-awaited 20XI golf balls to Malaysian market

ost avid golfers would have spotted the 20XI logo on Nike staff players’ caps throughout 2011 and it was an open secret that it was a teaser to encourage those loyal to the brand to look out for the new Nike 20XI golf balls. Following up on their successful debut on the US and European markets last year, Nike Golf South East Asia unveiled the new 20XI golf balls to an expectant press and industry followers during a media briefing at Kota Permai Golf & Country Club on January 17. Also given the opportunity to test the new range of golf balls were 120 participants of the Nike Open 2012, which took place later in the day. The premium golf ball franchise boasts a ground-breaking technology that will dramatically enhance the performance of golfers and at the same time, propel golf ball manufacturing into an entirely new level of innovation.

According to Nike, the four-piece 20XI comes in two models – the 20XI-X model for less spin and a slightly higher compression and slightly harder cover – designed to promote distance – and 20XI-S model for more spin with slightly less compression and cover hardness – engineered for increased spin and control. Central to the ball construction is its injected molded core out of a proprietary resin from DuPont Corporation which allowed Nike to engineer a ball with greater MOI meaning less twisting ball flight and given its lighter core weight more weight was applied to the other outer three layers, two of which are urethane for softer feel. The new core will make the 20XI ball 3-5 km/h faster than their previous offerings. Nike Golf South East Asia general manager Peter Turnbull enthused on the resin-like polymer material used in the core which is designed to be lighter, while promoting higher

ball speed off the clubface. A lighter golf ball will travel further, he says, while the perimeter weighting adds forgiveness on mishits. “Nike has taken the next window of opportunity available in terms of golf ball development by exploring the various materials for the core. We discovered that by using the proprietary resin core technology, we were able to accomplish three critical components that all golfers wish to have in a golf ball - more distance off the tees, straighter ball flight and increased control around the greens,” said Turnbull. To date, Stephen Ames, Stewart Cink, Richard Finch, Lucas Glover, Matt Haines, Anthony Kim, Kevin Kisner, Justin Leonard, Jamie Lovemark, Pablo Martin, Francesco Molinari, James Morrison and Carl Pettersson are amongst the Nike professionals to make the switch. The 20XI range retails for RM210 at all major golf stores and pro shops nationwide.

IN THE BAG

F THE HOT OF

MILL! MP-650

golf.mizunoeurope.com •

•

Classic pear-shaped ‘Tour Ready’ head with deeper face delivers a mid-launch, low spin, and a penetrating yet workable trajectory, offering the potential to shape the ball in both direction The new Forged 6-4 Ti CORTECH face produces Mizuno’s fastest ever ball speeds, with its 3 thickness design maintaining those ball speeds across the widest possible hitting area. Six-piece titanium head construction with two strategically placed internal weights produces a neutral to slight fade trajectory, helping to correct draws for better results to find the fairways more consistently Harmonic Impact Technology promotes a powerful, solid impact sound.

RRP: RM1,499 in R, S and SR flex

HE MILL

FT HOT OF

ZL ENCORE DRIVER

www.cobragolf.com •

• •

Features a carbon fiber crown and sole with a 5% larger titanium body and face, along with a swing weight screw, providing optimal CG and improved MOI. A 30% Larger Sweet Zone and a new approach to bulge and roll design delivers distance and accuracy. Three simple face-angle settings (Open, Neutral and Closed) optimize ball flight for increased distance and improved accuracy. Comes in two cosmetic options - an all-white finish as well as black/electric yellow design. Fitted with Tour AD shafts and available in lofts of 9.5° and 10.5° in a choice of S or R flexes.

RRP: RM1,990

AROUND THE GLOBE

ACE GRACE SECURES HOME DOUBLE

randen Grace secured back-to-back victories in his home country in a flying start to 2012. The 23-year-old achieved his notable European double only a month after surviving the Tour qualifying school in Spain. After claiming his first title at the Joburg Open with a one-stroke victory over fellow graduate Jamie Elson on January 12, the rookie edged past childhood heroes Ernie Els and Retief Goosen in an all South African play-off at the Volvo Golf Champions in The Links at Fancourt the following week to make it a memorable fortnight in his young professional life.

He became the first player since Fred Couples in 1995 to follow his first win on the circuit with another on his very next start and in the process, earned himself an exemption on the European Tour till the end of 2013. He was 258th in the world before his double haul but now sits healthily inside the top 100.

MASTERFUL MARDAN CLAIMS PHILIPPINE OPEN Mardan Mamat coasted to a comfortable five-stroke victory Anat emotional the ICTSI Philippine Open to end a six-year winless run on February 12.

The 44-year-old Singaporean picked up his third Asian Tour victory with a closing oneunder-par 71 at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club to complete a commanding wire-towire victory with an eight-under-par 280 total.

Mo Joong-kyung of Korea threatened briefly before finishing a distant second in the US$300,000 Asian Tour event, signing off with a 74 while top Filipino honours went to Antonio Lascuna who returned a 69 for tied third place with Japan’s Azuma Yano, who signed for a 70.

After tapping in for his lone bogey all week on the 18th, Mardan fell on his knees to celebrate his return into the winner’s enclosure. He later broke in tears when asked if thoughts of not winning had crept into his mind during his barren years. “My wife (Naz) encouraged and pushed me a lot to practice. She said you love the game so much and why must you quit. There was a time when I said it was time for me to be a golf coach but she said not in your dreams,” said a teary-eyed Mardan.

LIFE CHANGING WIN FOR PRATT

ustralia’s Kieran Pratt birdied the second play-off hole to win his maiden Asian Tour title at the Zaykabar Myanmar Open presented by Air Bagan on February 5. Pratt, Adam Blyth of Australia and Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand were tied on 15-under-par 273 in regulation play which forced a three-way play-off at the US$300,000 Asian Tour event. Kiradech, who closed with a 72, was the first to bow out after narrowly missing his birdie putt from 35 feet as Pratt and Blyth birdied the 18th hole at the Royal Mingalardon Golf and Country Club.

But it was Pratt who was the last man standing, making another birdie on the same hole as Blyth made par after his tee shot found water. “Fantastic. It feels great to win the first event of the year. Obviously you want to get off to a fast start but to win is obviously better,” smiled Pratt, who closed with a four-under-par 68. With a priceless two-year’s winner’s exemption on the Asian Tour, Pratt will now have the opportunity to tee off against the best players in major high profile events in the region.

However, it was the end of the road for the crowd favourite Miguel Tabuena, who started the final round one shot back of Mardan but faded badly with an 81 to settle for a share of 11th position.

ROCK SHOWS TIGER HOW IT’S DONE

AROUND THE GLOBE

obert Rock held his nerve to beat U.S. Open champion Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship for the biggest win of the Englishman’s career.

Woods started the final round tied for the lead with the unheralded Rock. But the control Woods displayed for much the weekend abandoned him on the final round and it was Rock who held it together down the stretch. The 34-year-old Stafforshire pro birdied three of

Knowing that a double bogey on the 18th was enough to seal the victory, Rock elected to take a penalty drop after an errant drive into a rocky hazard and proceeded to two-putt for a one-shot victory on 13 under. “I was just happy to be playing with Tiger,” admitted the 34-year-old Staffordshire pro, who took home a whooping €347,024. “That is a special honour in itself. Early on I was very nervous but I hit some good shots and then I began to think, ‘why not?’”

The 117th-ranked Rock shot a two-under 70 for an overall 13-under 275 to beat the 22-year Northern Irishman by a shot and the 14-major winner by two. Woods finished in a tie for third with Thomas Bjorn (68) and Graeme McDowell (68).

his first six holes to open himself a comfortable early three-stroke lead but the key moment of the round came when he birdied the 14th after a poor bogey at the previous hole to set up a two-shot advantage going into the final hole.

RAFAEL UPSTAGES WESTWOOD, GALLACHER FOR DUBAI CROWN PHIL EARNS 40TH PGA TOUR WIN

hil Mickelson shot a flawless eight-under-par 64 to overturn a six-shot deficit and win the Pebble Beach Pro-Am by three shots on 16-under. The American hit three birdies and an eagle in his first six holes to wipe out the overnight lead of Charlie Wi, who dropped four shots early on. Wi closed with three birdies to finish with a 72 to end second on 15-under. Mickelson’s flightmate Tiger Woods bogeyed the final three holes on the front nine on his way to a 75 as he dropped back to eight under. “It just feels great to win this tournament,” said Mickelson. “It’s a special place for me, Pebble Beach, and to have a win here, where my grandfather caddied, feels awesome. “I felt like my game was so close heading into the season, and yet my scores didn’t reflect how I felt I was playing. “To put it together this week, especially the final round, just feels terrific. It gives me a lot of confidence but also inspires me because I believe what I’m doing is correct and that I’m able to play some of my best golf.” Mickelson’s victory is his fourth at Pebble Beach and means he becomes only the ninth man to win 40 PGA Tour titles.

Rafael Cabrera-Bello was the surprise winner of the Dubai Desert Classic after sinking a nerveless birdie on the 17th hole to post an unmatchable 18-under par total to beat Lee Westwood and Scottish veteran Stephen Gallacher by a single shot. The unfancied 27-year-old Spaniard had started the day one stroke behind overnight leader Westwood, but made three birdies on the back nine to close with a flawless 68 and clinch a second European Tour victory after his Austrian Golf Open victory in 2009. The amiable Spaniard, who had shot a blistering nine-under 63 in the opening round, retook the lead on the final day with successive birdies on the 11th and 12th holes but found himself level with the duo ahead of him after Gallacher sank an eagle while Westwood birdied his own to join him on 17-under. “It’s an unbelievable feeling and it’s been a really spectacular week for me,” said Cabrera-Bello. “With so many big, big names I felt really proud of myself. I wanted to fight, I stayed calm, I did everything that I’ve read we should do in these type of situations. “I had ups and downs of course, but overall I think I played great. “This was the quality jump I was looking for in my game and it’s offered me the opportunity to play with the world’s best players.” It was third consecutive time that a Spaniard has claimed the title with Miguel Angel Jimenez in 2010 and Alvaro Quiros last year.

AROUND THE GLOBE

KORDA WINS AUSSIE OPEN

essica Korda broke out her father’s trademark scissor-kick celebration after winning the ISPS Women’s Australian Open at Royal Melbourne for her first LPGA Tour title. After losing the lead with a late bogey run, the 18-year-old American fought back to take the last spot in an improbable six-player playoff, then won with a 25-foot birdie putt on the second extra hole.

Stacy Lewis, Brittany Lincicome, Julieta Granada, So Yeon Ryu and Hee Kyung Seo also were in the playoff that matched the largest-ever in the LPGA Tour’s history. Making her 16th start as an LPGA Tour member, Korda took a one-stroke lead into the round and was two ahead at 7 under after birdieing three of the first eight holes. She had a double bogey on ninth, bogeyed 10th, birdied 11th, and bogeyed 14th through 16th to drop two strokes behind Ryu and Seo before a securing a birdie and par on the remaining holes. the women’s New South Wales Open by four strokes at the age of only 14.

The world’s top female amateur broke Japanese player Ryo Ishikawa’s mark of 15 years, 8 months, and Australian Amy Yang’s women’s record of 16 years, 192 days.

KO ENTERS RECORD BOOKS WITH NSW VICTORY

ew Zealand amateur Lydia Ko has become the youngest winner of a professional golf tour event, triumphing in

The South Korean-born New Zealander shot a three-under par final round of 69 to finish 14-under for the tournament, four strokes clear of Becky Morgan of Wales in the 54-hole tournament. Britain’s Laura Davies closed with a 71 and a 54-hole total of 216, 14 strokes behind the winner. “To be part of history is like a miracle,” said Ko, who plans to play about 30 tournaments this year “It’s not something you can have by clicking your fingers.”

STANLEY BOUNCES BACK

or the second straight week, Kyle Stanley ended a PGA Tour event with tears in his eyes. Only this time, they were tears of joy. Taking advantage of Spencer Levin’s finalround meltdown, Stanley rebounded from a devastating loss at Torrey Pines to win the Phoenix Open on February 5, overcoming an eight-stroke deficit in a comeback as unlikely as his collapse the week before at the Farmers Insurance Open. “You go from a very low point to a high point,” Stanley said. “I’m not sure I expected to maybe recover this quickly. I think the biggest challenge was seeing if I could put last week behind me. I think I did.” Stanley closed with a bogey-free six-under 65, holing a four-foot par putt on the last to finish at 15-under 269 - a stroke ahead of playing partner Ben Crane and two ahead of Levin, who led the tournament by six after 54 holes.

MISSION HILLS TO HOST INTERNATIONAL LADIES TOURNEY

he inaugural World Ladies Championship (WLC) is set to debut on the Vintage Course at Mission Hills Hainan from March 2 to 4.

The China Golf Association (CGA), Mission Hills Group, China LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour (LET) are committed to creating a worldclass tournament. The WLC will concurrently feature three, 54-hole competitions namely individual professional play, professional team play and individual amateur play. Co-sanctioned by the LET and China LPGA Tour, the US$600,000 event will award points to members of both Tours and will feature 108 elite players from the LET as well as the LPGA Tours of the United States, Korea, Japan and China. The host Vintage Course at Mission Hills is designed by Brain Curley and inspired by

Incorporating ideas from the World Golf Championships and World Cup, the WLC adopts a new format compatible with the Olympics where golf will once again be showcased in 2016.

classic American golf courses built at the turn of the 20th century. It takes its cue from revered layouts such as the National Golf Links, Fishers Island, Maidstone, Chicago Golf Club and Garden City Golf Club. Other than serving as the China LPGT’s first stop in 2012, WLC will also be a curtain-raiser for the women’s golf season in mainland China.

“The World Ladies Championship 2012 is an integral part of the LET calendar as well as an unprecedented women’s professional golf competition in China. As Mission Hills have already arranged numerous international tournaments with success, I believe the upcoming championship will certainly draw more attention to women’s golf and thus further popularise the sport on a global level” said LET executive director Alexandra Armas.

THE RIGHT FIT WITH TITLEIST

Hailing from the small town of Windsor in New South Wales, Australia, is

Shaun

Moulds

a second-generation club

fitter, having tweaked clubs for close to a decade. Now based in Singapore where he is the

itting a golf ball a long way, especially off the tee, can certainly be an advantage on the golf course. However, while these long drives are important, it is equally important to be hitting your second shot from the fairway and not from the rough. We approach our fitting by asking the right questions. Asking The Right Questions & Gathering Baseline Info We begin the interview process with a quick overview of the golfer’s game, how their current driver is performing, where the bad shots normal go to, and what they are struggling with. In addition, we ask what their goals and objectives are.

FinRHchartMetal.pdf

We then have the customer hit their own driver and with the aid of the latest Trackman 3 launch monitor, we analyze and record information such as ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, landing angle and carry distance. Fitting Process We then begin to fit for optimal length and driver model. By fitting a golfer with the correct shaft length optimal length driver will result in more consistent shots at the sweet spot thereby equating to maximum ball speed and tighter ball dispersion. As for what type of shaft suits you, we will look for the shaft that provides the fastest ball speeds, most consistent shots and also gives the player the best feel. The correct flex of the shaft allows the golfer to load the shaft properly which allows better ball striking and more consistent results. C

CMY

Titleist Surefit Tour Hosel The 910 range of metal woods feature the SureFit Tour hosel. This hosel allows us to independently adjust loft and lie for increased distance and control.

The SureFit Tour hosel has 16 different loft/lie settings. The lie angle for the player can be determined by evaluating curvature of the ball flight. The SureFit Tour Hosel provides four different lie angles for each loft position. The proper loft can be determined by evaluating both launch angle and spin as the player hits shots. The SureFit Tour Hosel provides four different loft options for each head.

regional club fitter for Titleist SEA, the two-handicapper is discovering South East Asia for what it is but is still on the lookout for a great angling spot.

Example: If the SureFit setting is in A·1 and the golfer is seeing too much left to right movement through the air we would change the setting to B·2, which on this occasion gave a straighter ball flight but, the launch angle is slightly low. We would then move up to C·3 position which adds 0.75° of loft which increased the launch angle and resulted in better trajectory and carry distance. 1

2/20/12

1:56 PM

With the aid of our Trackman launch monitor we are able to accurately measure the landing angle. For a driver we are looking to keep this angle under 40° which would be the appropriate launch and spin.

Driver Fitting

COVERING CARLSBAD BY SCOTT KRAMER

very January since 1991, I have attended the annual PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. It is golf’s largest trade show, attracting more than 40,000 golf industry people from nearly 80 countries.

Scott Kramer is a veteran golf writer based in the golf equipment capital of Carlsbad, California. In his 20-plus years covering the golf industry, the former senior editor of GOLF Magazine

has

lowered

his

playing index to 5.1, raised his IQ on the sophisticated technology used to make golf clubs, and stayed even keel on his propensity to miss short putts.

But he always brings game to his columns.

The Big Orlando Show

Roaming the aisles in the 1.1. million-square-foot Orange County Convention Center’s West building are Tour pros, course pros, vendors, manufacturers, equipment designers, media, celebrities, models, and average golfers who get passes from friends inside the golf industry. The show is not open to the public. However, all attendees get a sneak preview of the new equipments, apparel and knickknacks coming out for the year. In those two-plus decades walking the floor and testing out pretty much every driver, wood, hybrid, iron, wedge and putter that’s come to market, I’ve seen a lot of trends come and go. In addition, that vitality keeps golfers coming back for new gear every year. For every new fad or trend, there springs the eternal hope of lowering scores and breaking par. This year is no exception. Several movements struck me, as I examined all of the new products. For one, you are going to see a revival of fairway woods. Many golfers may have migrated to using hybrids in the past decade, but manufacturers have really pushed the design envelope this year to make fairway woods more like drivers in that they shoot up in the air with more ease, more forgiveness and more yardage. Some manufacturers have tweaked the weighting, such as TaylorMade, discovering that moving the weight forward toward the face in low-lofted clubheads actually helps get the ball up without too much spin, so that the ball gets airborne and travels farther. By now you’ve probably heard lots about belly putters and long putters hitting the market, as those models became a quick success on Tour again last year. Believe me, it seems like every manufacturer is now touting those models much more loudly than standard-length putters are. It is no wonder; the putter market has been deteriorating with respect to sales for about nine years or so, according to published reports. Therefore, whenever manufacturers smell an opportunity to boost a dormant part of their business, they are all over it. These putters not only have longer shafts, by the way, but they were designed in such a way so that they do not feel disproportionate in your hands. As in the past couple of years, we are hearing a lot about speed, as in clubhead speed and ball speed. And that’s very evident with the new lot of drivers this year. Several models actually have names implying quickness, such as Adams Golf’s Speedline Fast 12 woods, Nike’s VR-S (S stands for “speed”) club line, and TaylorMade’s RocketsBallz clubs. In many cases, the clubs are aerodynamically shaped to increase head speed or have internal weighting schemes to accomplish the task. Then there are new balls on the market that are built to move faster, particularly for slower swingers. You will see this trend emerge in products such as Callaway HEX Chrome and Bridgestone’s all-new Tour B330-RX. The main goal with all of these new products is to enhance distance on long shots.

Other trends for 2012 include more custom-made wedges, lighter weight bags, and club fitting systems becoming more mobile and portable. In fact, several companies are selling items that average golfers can help fit themselves with. It was not two years ago when most fitting systems cost at least several thousand dollars apiece, and required an entire complicated setup replete with a highspeed camera. Not anymore. At this show, PING was really pushing its putter-fitting app on Apple devices that only require a $30 cradle that snaps onto the putter shaft and holds your iDevice. It is very simple to use and see where your putting stroke is going astray. It also allows you to compare your stroke to PING Tour staff pros. That said, the single-most innovative item I saw at the show was Swing Smart, which was an app and device just like PING’s, except it is for all of the swinging clubs in your bag. You clip the $299 sensor to your club and it wirelessly transmits all of your swing data to an iPad or iPhone, which can recreate your swing with amazing visuals on the screen instantaneously. It’s incredibly simple to operate and understand.

Moreover, that is the main theme I came away with this year - everything is getting easier for golfers. Easier to hit. Easier to get airborne. Easier to make equipment choices. And definitely easier to score better. That’s great news!

GOLF DOWN UNDER

Richard Fellner is the Group Editor of Inside Golf Magazine

ustralian golfers are a lucky bunch. With the third highest number of golf courses per capita in the world (behind only Scotland and New Zealand), we are certainly spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing which course to play on any given day – especially in and around the golf-rich region around Melbourne. When I first moved to Australia many years ago, I was thrilled to discover just how many courses were available in both public and private forms. What’s more, there were plenty of new, worldclass championship public courses popping up on a regular basis. Courses like St Andrews Beach in Victoria (now one of the top courses in Australia), Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania (now one of the top courses in the world!), and a variety of soon-to-berenowned courses like Eynesbury, Kalgoorlie GC, Hamilton Island began staking their claim for the almighty Golfing Dollar. On the surface, the golf scene in Australia appeared mouth-wateringly good. However, unbelievably, you CAN have too much of a good thing. Around the same time as these new public courses began emerging, many private/member clubs began seeing their numbers slowly dwindle, as their members began to migrate to the “Green Fee” ranks. With such a great selection of courses on offer, not to mention a dwindling household budget, golfers began to feel that the “stuck to one course” membership model was outdated, unaffordable and unattractive. A study last year showed that social golfers outnumbered member golfers for the first time in Australia’s history, representing a troubling trend for clubs that had become dependent upon sizeable joining fees and member subscriptions. Worse, after severe droughts, a crippling Global Financial Crisis, horrible winter weather and a few floods/disasters across the country, the Australian golf industry as a whole has endured difficult times. Courses are being sold/bought/closed every month, while new projects have all but dried up. In the wake of all this, many clubs today are scrambling to stay out of the rough. While some private clubs are taking a “wait-and-see” approach (which I believe may be a massive mistake), others are aggressively promoting to the social golf market via special events, lower joining fees, unique membership models (like mid-week, seasonal, or

– Australia’s most regularly read New, excellent public courses such as Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania and Kalgoorlie Golf Course in Western Australia are forcing a major rethink by private courses across Australia.

golf publication. Hailing from the United States but now a proud resident of Melbourne, Fellner is a true golf tragic having played the game for over 35 years but never getting any better at it.

credits-based systems), or participating in the “Daily Deals” fiasco like Scoopon/Groupon. Even with all that, the results are not that exciting. The fact of the matter is that there are simply too many golf courses to go around, and consolidation is the key. Many in the industry echo this sentiment, and it means that some courses will be forced to close their doors permanently or amalgamate with neighbouring clubs. Middle or lower-tier clubs simply cannot survive in the current economy, so they need to act before it is too late. “Survival of the fittest” may well and truly apply here. I love my golf. Each time a golf course closes, I feel empty inside. Even if I have never seen the course, I think about the members, the good times and the rich history that the club represented. Moreover, I lament on the fact that would be one more course that I will never have the opportunity to play. Nevertheless, I also understand mergers and acquisitions (and insolvencies and closures) are part of business, and we would be foolish to think it would not happen to golf. As a result, we must do whatever is necessary to ensure the golf industry stays strong and healthy. Part of that, unfortunately, requires some closures and/or mergers. However, that is not necessarily bad. Some of history’s greatest companies/inventions/creations came about through mergers and collaboration. The same will happen, I hope, with Australian golf. With fewer courses available, albeit high quality ones, the law of “Supply and Demand” will ring true, and the Australian Golf industry may end up healthier as a result.

Does Australia have too many golf courses?

TOUR WATCH WITH ASIAN TOUR

Calvin Koh and Doyle De

at the Asian Tour. Known for their differing viewpoints on all things golf in Asia, the duo give their insights and thoughts on the happenings and developments on the region’s established Tour.

David Lipsky led the Asian Tour graduates for 2012

What are your expectations for the 2012 Asian Tour season? Calvin Koh: I expect to see Juvic Pagunsan, the 2011 Order of Merit champion, winning more tournaments. We all know he has the game and his mental strength was evident when he battled from 64th position in the Order of Merit to the summit of the money list. With his confidence level at a high, you can expect him to challenge for more honours this year to add to his Asian Tour victory in 2006. Doyle De Costa: Be warned, the year 2012 will herald the rise of the rookies. David Lipsky of the United States, Arnond Vongvanij of Thailand, Dodge Kemmer, James Byrne of Scotland and Kim Gi-hwan of Korea are some of the highly rated players to graduate from the toughest school of all. Last year, two rookies won on the Asian Tour, I predict at least three victories for the graduates this season. Will the more experience players stand a chance against these young guns? CK: Without a doubt, experience will play a vital role in the chase for honours as Thongchai Jaidee, Thaworn Wiratchant and Jeev Milkha Singh can attest to. The young guns will be hungry for success but coming down the stretch, patience and experience will be the key to winning.

Season Preview

DDC: I will quote what Bryan Saltus, a winner on the Asian Tour had to say on this, “Do you think the older guys will just stand aside and let these young guys walk over them? These older guys are like monsters when they play golf!” Which Asian Tour tournament are you looking forward to? CK: There is a great line-up of tournaments this year, which travels as far as Switzerland. Each Asian Tour tournament has its own appeal so I am looking forward to each tournament with a sense of excitement. DDC: Call me bias, but I would go with the Maybank Malaysian Open. There’s always a stellar field

assembled at the Maybank Malaysian Open and I have always enjoyed watching the Asian Tour players such as Noh Seung-yul, Arjun Atwal, Anthony Kang and Thongchai Jaidee enjoying a slice of success here. What do you think of Kenneth De Silva’s nine on the par-five 18th hole of Qualifying School? CK: One bad hole is all it takes to take your Asian Tour dreams away. I am sure he will bounce back from this setback. DDC: Kenneth De Silva was one of the favourites at Qualifying School among the staff and television crew. He was a joy to interview during the week and his devastation was clear as he solemnly sat outside the clubhouse, disappointed with the outcome of a bad judgement where his ball found water twice. However, he is a fighter so I expect to see him charging back. It is still early in the season but have there been any highlights for you? CK: For me it was watching Manny Pacquiao playing in the ICTSI Philippine Open pro-am with Frankie Minoza (below). Both are legends and Asia’s ambassadors in boxing and golf respectively.

and globe-trotting media team

Costa form part of the dynamic

DDC: Kieran Pratt winning the Zaykabar Myanmar Open presented by Air Bagan. You could not ask for a better ending when you come back from a five-shot deficit, eagle the last hole to force a three-way playoff and come out on top after the second extra hole. Moreover, that is just the prelude to the 2012 Asian Tour season!

GOLFING TALES FROM THE LION CITY

Karrie Webb claimed the 2011 title by one stroke

Growing up in a golfing family with a grandmother who was an amateur champion golfer, Justine Moss developed a love of golf at an early age. After moving to Singapore in 1998 from Sydney, and opening her own communications company a year later, Justine expanded the writing side of her business and

currently writes for a number of

he HSBC Women’s Champions (HWC), which has quickly established itself as a leading light on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and is undoubtedly one of Asia’s premier women’s golf events, celebrates its fifth birthday this year. The US$1.4 million tournament, which features a number of marquee names in the 63 player line-up, was introduced as a sister event to the Shanghai Men’s HSBC Champions back in 2008, and the tournament has the unique distinction of being just a little more than your average ladies tour event. The qualification criteria is just as tight this year with those eligible including the winners on the LPGA Tour in the 2011 season, the top 20 on the Rolex Rankings as of 31st December 2011, two sponsors invites, one Host Country Invite (Koh Sock Hwee) and the HSBC Women’s Champions winners from 2010 and 2011. The remainder of the field will be made up of the next top ranking players on the 2011 Money List. In other words, the carefully crafted criteria for the HWC, where the format is stroke play over four days with no cut, ensures that the world’s best players are in the field. The event has long been popular with the girls who make the trip to the warmer climes at this time of year to play in both Singapore and Thailand. Japanese ace Ai Miyazato, who will be looking to repeat her HWC 2010 victory, says, “I love the HSBC Women’s Champions tournament here in Singapore. It is always a strong field and a challenging few days out there on one of the most testing Championship courses we play on all year but it’s an amazing experience and we’re always treated so well. I am

looking to improve my game for 2012 and I hope I put on a good show for all the fans! I’m really looking forward to it.”

golfing and lifestyle publications in the region, with her finger on the pulse of local golf happenings in the Lion City

Another who is excited about her return is 2009 HWC champion Shin Jiyai, who is currently ranked seventh on the Rolex rankings. “I am excited to be playing in the HSBC Women’s Champions again this year. I always look forward to being back in Singapore and facing the challenging Garden Course against fellow champions of the game. This tournament is one of the biggest we play all year on the LPGA schedule and I hope I will play to the best of my ability. It would be amazing to win it again and a great way to start the year.” Joining these two Asian talents on the manicured fairways of Tanah Merah Country Club’s Garden course, will be defending champion Karrie Webb, world number one Yani Tseng, who finished in third place in 2010 and 2011, Americans Cristie Kerr, Michelle Wie and Paula Creamer, as well as Norwegian Suzann Pettersen, who finished as the World Number Two at the end of 2011. Yet while most tournaments – bar the Majors and National Opens – do have a shelf life, how will the future of the HWC pan out? Can it become a lasting legacy within the annals of the LPGA? Singaporean golfing pundits and the players will undoubtedly hope so. Moreover, with the majority of the world’s leading players set to show their mettle and swing on a Singapore championship golf course, the scene is now set for another exceptional tournament.

Looking back at the HSBC Women’s Champions

UNCHARTED COURSE WITH NORMAS YAKIN

Normas

Yakin

considers

himself an all-rounder: a former cocoa and oil palm planter, golf course superintendent, golf club manager, director, lecturer and consultant. He believes there are only two great mavericks in Malaysia; one of them is a former Prime Minister. Modesty, however, prevents him from telling you who the other one is. In his free time, he scribbles at

www.mynormas.com

Kuala Lumpur Golf’s Country Club

ack in the days when I was really into golf, I was really into golf. I had blisters on my hand which reminded me of the days when I was farming in Sarawak. The blisters look the same; though in those days, they were caused by the shovels, cangkuls and watering cans. Now they are the result of contact with 3-woods, 5-irons and the sand wedge. I would play wherever and whenever I had the chance. I was playing from one end of the peninsular to the other. I had a good look at many golf courses and when I say I had a ‘good look’, I really mean I had a good look. My golf was never that good and my shots were all over the place. This had the unintended effect of me seeing things that many good golfers would miss. When I got back to the club sometimes, I would tell Martin Greenwood the Superintendent about what I saw and how we could have done otherwise. Most of the time he would agree or tell me what practices should have been done. However, one day, after I gave one particular course a rather bad ‘review’, Martin said, “You know; if there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that we shouldn’t be criticizing others when we don’t know what they’re facing.” That statement has stayed with me to this day. So what do I think are the factors that would make a difference in managing a golf course? What are the challenges and problems faced by one golf course but not by another?

Judge Not

If you think it is only about the amount of money spent on maintenance, you are partly right, although there are other issues that make a difference too. I have seen courses with a big budget but the money is not well spent, or even spent at all. Nevertheless, yes, we can say that money is Thing #1 that makes a difference on why a course is maintained differently from others. For simplicity’s sake, let us put machinery, fertilizer, chemicals, sand etc. into one category. After all, you need money to buy the stuff. Thing #2 is knowledge. Sometimes it’s just about plain old common sense which is just not that common anymore but sometimes, it’s the science and art of course maintenance that’s missing. Course Superintendents are hard to come by these days, good and experienced Course Superintendents

are even harder. Malaysian courses do not pay enough to keep talent so many have moved on to other jobs, moved out to other countries or moved up to become Club Managers. On the other hand, the courses where the Course Superintendent is knowledgeable, his staff well trained and supported by management, tend to be better courses. This is where I think Saujana and KLGCC are streets ahead of other courses in Malaysia. Thing #3 is a bit hard to talk about diplomatically but unfortunately, it does happen and often happens negatively especially with clubs that have Course Superintendents who are not good at presentations or do not have good backing. Thing #3 is about interference - the GM, accountant, golf managers, committees or even owners (this includes owner’s son, daughter, brother, mother-in-law, and the like – I am not exaggerating), all wanting to have a say about the maintenance of the course. Of course, I have worked with owners and committees who are willing to discuss and listen, always believing that their course deserves the best, which not necessarily must come from them. Thing #4 that can be a cause for the difference in maintenance is the design and construction of the course. Was it designed to be high maintenance? You know - small bunkers, steep slopes, a million trees and a billion shrubs? Moreover, did the management know and is prepared to spend larger amount of money in the end? A course designed to be high maintenance but with little money provided for maintenance is recipe for a poor golf course. Was it constructed according to design and specifications? On the other hand, were corners cut? Poor construction and a compromise on material quality are common reasons why golf courses are in poor condition. Golf courses built following specifications monitored by the architect and an experienced superintendent are usually much easier to maintain in the long run. I know some of you are already thinking of stuff that can be added to this list and perhaps there are a few. However, I bet most of them can be placed under the ‘money’ category. In fact, come to think of it, nowadays money can even buy the ‘knowledge’ thing too. A good consultant anyone?

A TEACHER’S TALE

A member of the Canadian PGA

since

Walterhouse

2002, moved

Brad to

Singapore from western Canada to join the Heartlands Golf Schools in 2009. He believes that every single golfer is unique and has different reasons for A great resource to learn how to practice better is a book called The Game before The Game, by Vision54 founders Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson. I had a great time learning from Lynn and Pia when I visited them in Phoenix, Arizona last year.

playing the game, different goals

and a unique swing. Noted for

very week, I see the same people hitting hundreds and hundreds of balls on the driving range, and they usually leave with very little to show for it. The routine usually looks something like this - get 100 balls, fill up the hitting stall, fire away, some wedges, a bunch of 7 irons, a bunch of drivers, pack up and go home. Sounds familiar? If you’re a golfer who goes to the range so that you can become a better player on the golf course, be aware that just because you put in lots of time at the range, it doesn’t mean that you are practicing, and it doesn’t mean that you are making yourself a better golfer. When you practice, the best thing you can do is learn how to Pay Attention to Your Intention. Practice time should be about learning and the best way to learn is with deliberate practice. Deliberate practice starts with having a clear intention of what it is you are practicing or working on. Pay attention to your intention is a statement that a golfer needs to understand. What does it mean? It means that if you are working on improving your posture, make sure that you are focused completely on posture from the start of the swing to the end of the swing. Then, when it is time to evaluate the shot or swing, make sure that you are evaluating first - how well you did at paying attention to posture - and second, if your posture better than it was before. What happens to most golfers is that they might have an intention before they swing the club, but somewhere during the swing, the attention shifts (usually to the golf ball). Then the reaction and the feedback usually have more to do with the result of the shot than they do with the original

intention (in this case posture). The problem with this is that a shift in focus can easily take a golfer away from the original intention. The sequence often looks like this: Intention: “Ok, have to maintain posture.” Swing Thought: In mid swing, attention shifts from posture to back swing. Reaction and Feedback “Ahh, sliced it, must have been the back swing, better pay attention to the back swing on the next one,” and out the window goes the original intention. A more productive sequence would look like this: Intention: “Ok, have to maintain posture.” Swing Thought Stay present to the thought and the feeling of good posture, through the back swing, impact, and forward swing. Reaction and Feedback “Was I paying attention to my posture from the start to the finish of that swing?” Did I actually keep my posture during the swing? How did the posture affect the shot? Would you want to learn more about productive practice? I conduct regular workshops at the Heartland Golf School @ Jurong Country Club that teach golfers how to maximize learning during a practice session, what to practice, and how to get maximum return on the time you put into your practice sessions.

his interest in the mental aspects of the game, Brad espoused that golf should be enjoyed, not merely played.

Are you practicing or just passing time?

SHORT GAME FIXES WITH ANDREW MYLES

Though hailing from the Home of Golf, Andrew Myles is very much the Malaysian, having settled down here for close to a decade. A recognised Class AA British PGA professional and a certified AimPoint instructor, he mixes his passion for short game and putting with a methodological

accelerated

performance coaching style. His tips can be found on

www.andrewmylesgolf.com

Chipping: T Ball control starts with clubface control

o become a great short game player who have to gain control over the ball. Knowing the trajectory and spin on the ball will allow you to pick your landing spots more accurately and visualize the shot more clearly.

An easy way to remember it is:

Check your grip on your left hand prior to playing the shot and see how many knuckles are visible (photo 1). Most players with a neutral grip will see approx 2 knuckles on your left hand and 1 on your right hand. (21)

Closed = 12

As you move the club head back from the ball monitor how many knuckles are visible (photo 2). If you begin to see more knuckles on your left hand (3) and less on the right hand (0) then the clubface is starting to open. If you see less on the left (1) and more on the right (2) then the clubface is closing.

Square = 21 Open = 30

Any changes in the clubface position will lead to the left wrist breaking down and the strike point being too far behind the ball. After making sure that the clubface is square on the backswing then work on keeping your hands leading the clubface through the ball so that you make more solid contact on the ball (photo 3). This will help present the club with consistent loft helping you to control both the trajectory and spin on the ball.

AGSSG LINKS GALLERY The AGSSG - Adams Golf - Firefly Golf Championship 2012 teed off on February 15 at Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah with the staging of the first of its 14 legs. With prizes worth RM880,000 up for grabs throughout the duration of the tournament, it was not surprising that the maiden leg was oversubscribed with a full field of 120 players.

BECAUSE YOU DESERVE MORE!

The #1 Golf Card Just Got Better

L to R: Tracy Goh of RSH Malaysia (Adams Golf ), Dato’ Tan Cheng Hooi and Dato’ Abu Bakar Mohd Nor of AGSSG Links, Wong Kim Teck of Kurnia Insurans, Muizzuddin Mahmud of FireFly and Alam Chong of AGSSG Links. During the official launch on January 19, it was announced that the gross, A Medal and B Medal champions from each of the preliminary legs will earn a trip to Langkawi for the two-day grand final at Gunung Raya Golf & Country Club from October 17 - 18. The gross champion from each leg will also earn berths in the 2013 Mizuno Dream Cup Grand Final.

Sponsors’ flight during the first leg at KGSAAS.

With the AGSSG Golf card, the doors swing open for you at more than 70 golf clubs throughout Malaysia. Enjoy preferential golfing rates, be it on a weekday or a weekend. THE #1 GOLF CARD is now MORE than just a golf card!

Lim Bu Keong walked home as the gross champion after posting a round of 74

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Bernard Choong was the first recipient of the grand lucky draw prize of a 40” LCD television.

HQ: No. I-2-5 Block I, Jalan PJU 1A/1, Taipan Damansara 2, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Tel: 603-7842 6911 Fax: 603-7842 6858 www.agssglinks.com.my Operations Office: 1st Floor, A01-1, Block A, Garden City Business Centre, Jalan Dagang Besar, Taman Dagang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia. Tel: 603-4270 2926/3198/7670 Fax: 603-4270 2925

Agssg Links Sdn Bhd

PEARL OF THE EAST COAST

GOLF TRAVEL

There is no other place in the peninsular which offers the smooth blend of culture and heritage with sports and recreational experience the way Awana Kijal Golf, Beach & Spa Resort does. By Lina Abdul Wahab

GOLF TRAVEL

and amenities, with a choice or twin or king sized beds.

nugly tucked next to a 7.6 km private beach, the Awana Kijal Golf, Beach & Spa Resort offers something for everyone in the family from the serious golfers, to the ladies who need pampering in a luxurious spa, to the children who just want to have fun.

This five-star resort offers the warmth and charm of the people of Terengganu, a state in the East Coast of Peninsula Malaysia famous for its preservation of heritage and culture. It also houses 364 rooms and suites, nine fine dining restaurants, the largest fun pool in the East Coast region and an 18-hole championship golf course.

For the serious golfer, the resort boasts of a par72 7130-yard tract consisting of the Palma and Rimba Nines. Although specifically designed to allow golfers play relaxing games, looks can be deceiving. The monsoon season, which usually happens during the months of November to January challenges the golfers with club selection. Even the better players find Awana’s course challenging, especially on the Rimba Nine. The signature par-three 150-yard 14th is certainly one of the most scenic holes. The green is set out upon the beach, which is in turn, surrounded by the longest beach bunker in the country. Golfers are able to enjoy the scents, sights and atmosphere of the gorgeous beach while enjoying an invigorating round of golf. While golf may be the main itinerary for a getaway trip to Awana Kijal, accompanying

families and friends would not feel as though they have nothing else to engage in. For the missus who needs all the pampering she deserves, Taman Sari Heritage Spa is her ultimate answer. Strategically located within the grounds of Awana Kijal, the Taman Sari Heritage Spa promises unparalleled experience to relax, rejuvenate and rediscover her essential vitality. As The Taman Sari Heritage Spa is proudly brought to you by Princess BRA Mooryati Soedibyo of the Royal Javanese Palace, no one would leave the spa experience without feeling like a royalty herself. Treatments range from full body ‘lulur’ or the ancient Javanese scrub to the two-hour luxurious body massage. All treatments using modern state of the art equipments while adhering to ancient healing formulae. The spa also does room service for the ladies who prefer the pampering to be done in the comforts of their own rooms or suites. The rooms and suites at Awana Kijal offer panoramic view of the pristine water facing South China Sea. All 364 tastefully furnished and well-appointed rooms and suites make guests feel as though they are home away from home, or better than their own homes even. All rooms are equipped with modern comforts

There are coffee/tea making facilities, colour televisions, international direct dialling telephones and separate bathrooms and showers in every room. Guests are spoilt for choices with Awana’s room selection, which range from Deluxe Double (sea view) to Premier Suite (sea view). From each room, the breathtaking sight of the gorgeous South China Sea awaits each guest. A resort of this standing can never be complete without an excellent selection of restaurants, which boasts of world-class chefs. Awana Kijal has just that, with not one but nine food and beverage stations which can satiate your appetite to the fullest. Upon arrival at the resort, guests can rest and relax at the Atrium Coffee Lounge just outside the check-in counter. This coffee lounge serves non-alcoholic cocktails, a fine selection of coffees and teas and irresistible and delectable selection of cakes and other desserts. For your daily breakfast, Restoran Kampung Meraga Beris allows you to begin your day in true Terengganu hospitality. With buffet dishes served on top of a ‘sampan’, this is definitely a place for those looking for exquisite local delicacies. Other restaurants like Windows Steak House, Waterfall Cafe & Lounge and Little Canyon are also set and ready to serve you as their very important guests. Families with young children and teenagers need not fret. Awana Kijal boasts of the largest

GOLF TRAVEL

CONTEST

KIJAL ESCAPADE

Here’s your chance to enjoy the wonders of the East Coast at the Awana Kijal Golf, Beach and Spa Resort in Terengganu. All you need to do is spot five differences in the two photos below and complete the slogan.

TWO

GRAND PRIZE 3D2N stay at the Awana Kijal Golf, Beach and Spa Resort inclusive of breakfast for two (2) person

FOUR

CONSOLATION PRIZES 2D1N stay at the Awana Kijal Golf, Beach and Spa Resort inclusive of breakfast for two (2) person

Circle the five differences in Photo B as compared to Photo A

play pool in the East Coast region where both children and adults alike can spend quality family time splashing about in the water and the play area within the pool. There is also a giant chess set located next to the pool area, providing another fun option to play chess in a ‘huge’ way. Players can actually play the game by putting away the chess pieces and replacing them with real people standing on the giant chess board i.e if one happens to have 32 people on a trip together—for a hilarious game of ‘people chess’. If all these are not enough for your children, there is also an extensive playground within the Awana Kijal premise which offers an extensive range of play experience from giant Snake & Ladders, swings, see-saws, slides, play pens and even traditional games like hop scotch and more. The resort is not only a haven for family getaways. Any events, be it conferences, weddings, meetings or carnivals would find Awana Kijal as an ideal venue. Every facility required for your events can be made available for you with their team of efficient and professional staff, to ensure that every minute detail of your event is looked into. Awana Kijal has a Grand Ballroom with spacious pre-function area, 5-function rooms with prefunction area, sound and lighting control room, PA system and rostrum, slide-projector, overhead and movie projector and other equipments available upon request. Indeed, Awana Kijal does not only offer impeccable services to their guests, it offers unforgettable experience for each and every person who stays there. It is a place where one comes as a guest and leaves as a long lost friend with many warm and charming memories.

PHOTO A

PHOTO B Name Address

Email Telephone Handphone Pen a slogan in not more than 20 words I dream of Awana Kijal Golf, Beach and Spa Resort because. ...

Mail or fax your entries to AWANA KIJAL ESCAPADE CONTEST c/o Inpress Media Sdn Bhd A-3-1 Jalan PJS5/30 Pusat Perdagangan Petaling Jaya Selatan 46150 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Fax : 603 777 222 10 TERMS & CONDITIONS l Employees of Awana Hotels & Resorts and Inpress Media Sdn Bhd and their immediate families, as well as employees of advertising agencies and suppliers of goods and services to Awana Hotels & Resorts are not eligible to participate in this contest. l Incomplete entries and entries with illegible handwriting will be disqualified. l Each person is only entitled to win one prize in this contest. l The closing date for entries is March 30, 2012. l Winners will be contacted by phone or email and their names will be published in the April 2012 issue of The ClubHouse Magazine. l Prizes won are strictly non-transferable and non-exchangeable. l Winners release Awana Hotels & Resorts and Inpress Media Sdn Bhd from any and all liability, loss or damage incurred with respect to the possession, use or misuse of any prizes. l In the event of any dispute, the decision by the organisers is final and no correspondence will be entertained. l The organisers reserve the right to amend any part of the terms and conditions without prior notice. l The contest as well as the terms and conditions shall be governed by the laws of Malaysia.

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Call us to book your tee time: Bukit Kiara, off Jalan Damansara, Peti Surat 12137, Jalan Pantai Baru, Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur 50768, Malaysia

Tel: 03-7957 7821 Fax: 03-7957 3344

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The spectacular chandeliers in the Jubilee Ballroom lend drama to any event. With a capacity of 700 for banquet setting, the 9800 sq ft space and pillar-less Jubilee Ballroom is perfect for setups of Malay, Indian and Chinese weddings and other functions such as corporate launches, annual & gala dinners, conventions & seminars and other occasions. The sound, lighting and audio systems can be configured to the hostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s precise needs.

GOLF DIARY March 8 - 11 WGC-Cadillac Championship TPC Blue Monster at Doral, Florida, USA US$8,500,000 March 5 - 6 MMO National Qualifier Kuala Lumpur GCC, Kuala Lumpur

March 14 - 17 Handa Faldo Cambodian Classic Angkor Golf Resort, Siem Reap, Cambodia US$300,000

March 7 - 10 Malaysian School Sports Council National Championship Venue TBA, Perak March 13 - 15 Royal Selangor Junior Amateur Open Royal Selangor Golf Club, Kuala Lumpur

March 15 - 18 Transitions Championship Innisbrook Resort - Copperhead, Palm Harbor, Florida US$5,500,000 March 19 - 20 Tavistock Cup Lake Nona GCC, Orlando, Florida US$2,170,000 March 22 - 25 Arnold Palmer Invitational Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando, Florida US$6,000,000

February 22-26 WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship Ritz-Carlton GC, Dove Mountain, Arizona, USA US$8,500,000 March 8 - 11 WGC-Cadillac Championship TPC Blue Monster at Doral, Florida, USA US$8,500,000

March 3 - 7 Jeju Island Ladies Golf Challenge Jeju Island, South Korea

March 15 -18 Open de Andalucia Costa de Sol Aloha GC, Andalucia, Spain €1,000,000

February 23 - 26 HSBC Women’s Champions Tanah Merah CC, Singapore US$1,400,000

March 22 - 25 Trophee de HassanII Golf du Palais Royal, Agadir, Morocco €1,500,000

March 15 - 18 RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup Wildfire GC, Phoenix, Arizona, USA US$1,500,000 March 22 - 25 KIA Classic La Costa Resort & Spa, Carlsbad, California, USA US$1,700,000

March 8 - 11 PGM-CCM Impian Masters (ADT) Impian Golf & Country Club, Selangor RM180,000 February 22-26 WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship Ritz-Carlton GC, Dove Mountain, Arizona US$8,500,000

February 22 - 25 Sail-SBI Open US$300,000 February 22-26 WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship Ritz-Carlton GC, Dove Mountain, Arizona, USA US$8,500,000 March 1 - 2 The Open Championship IFQ-Asia Amata Spring Country Club, Bangkok Thailand March 8 - 11 PGM-CCM Impian Masters (ADT) Impian Golf & Country Club, Selangor US$60,000

February 23 - 26 Mayakoba Golf Classic El Camaleon, Riviera Maya, Mexico US$3,700,000 March 01 - 04 The Honda Classic PGA National, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida US$5,700,000 March 08 - 11 Puerto Rico Open Trump Intrntl GC - Puerto Rico, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico US$3,500,000 March 8 - 11 WGC-Cadillac Championship TPC Blue Monster at Doral, Florida US$8,500,000

March 2 - 4 World Ladies Championship Mission Hills Hainan, Haikou, China US$600,000 March 22 - 25 Lalla Meryem Cup Golf de l’ Ocean, Agadir, Morocco €325,000

WHERE TO GOLF - MALAYSIA & SINGAPORE KUALA LUMPUR

TANJUNG PUTERI GOLF RESORT

KINTA GOLF CLUB

MIMPIAN JADI GOLF CLUB

KUALA LUMPUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(54 holes) Tel: (607) 271 1888

(18holes) Tel: (605) 366 7270

(18 holes) Tel: (088) 787 122

(36 holes) Tel: (603) 2093 1111

PULAI SPRINGS RESORT

TAIPING GOLF RESORT

MOUNT KINABALU GOLF CLUB

ROYAL SELANGOR GOLF CLUB

(36 holes) Tel: (607) 521 2121

(18 holes) Tel: (605) 883 7500

(18 holes) Tel: (O88) 889 445

(36 holes) Tel: (603 ) 9206 3333

PORESIA COUNTRY CLUB

KUALA KANGSAR GOLF CLUB

NEXUS GOLF RESORT KARAMBUNAI

KELAB GOLF PERKHIDMATAN AWAM

(36 holes) Tel: (607) 510 1812

(9 holes) Tel: (605) 776 2396

(18 holes) Tel: (088) 480 888

(27 holes) Tel: (603) 7957 1958

STARHILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

BUKIT JALIL GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

(36 holes) Tel: (607) 556 6325

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 8996 1468

IOI PALM VILLA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

BUKIT JAWI GOLF RESORT

LAHAD DATU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

KELAB REKREASI ANGKATAN TENTERA

(27 holes) Tel: (607) 599 9099

( 36 holes) Tel: (604) 582 0759

(18 holes) Tel: (089) 889 288

(9 holes) Tel: (603) 2141 1113

THE LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

PENANG GOLF RESORT

SABAH GOLF COUNTRY CLUB

KELAB GOLF TITIWANGSA PDRM

(27 holes) Tel: (607) 652 4388

(36 holes) Tel: (604) 578 2022

(18 holes) Tel: (088) 247 533

(9 holes ) Tel: (603) 2693 4964

AUSTIN HILLS GOLF RESORT

BUKIT JAMBUL COUNTRY CLUB

SANDAKAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: ( 607) 352 4300

(18 holes) Tel: (604) 644 2255

(18 holes) Tel: (089) 660 557

SELANGOR

BUKIT BANANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PULAU PINANG

KEDAH

KENINGAU GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (087) 331 113

SHAN SHUI GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

GLENMARIE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 428 6001

(36 holes ) Tel: (603) 7803 9090

DAIMAN 18 GOLF CLUB

HARVARD GOLF COUNTRY CLUB

KINABALU GOLF CLUB

KELAB GOLF NEGARA SUBANG

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 351 6813

(27 holes) Tel: (604) 458 8888

(9 holes) Tel: (088) 251 615

(36 holes) Tel: (603) 7876 0388

HORIZON HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

KULIM GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

TAWAU GOLF CLUB

KELAB RAHMAN PUTRA MALAYSIA

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 232 3166

(18 holes) Tel: (604) 403 2828

(9 holes) Tel: (609) 765 555

(36 holes) Tel: (603) 6156 6870

KUKUP GOLF RESORT

BLACK FOREST GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

SAUJANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 696 0950

(18 holes) Tel: (604) 922 2222

(36 holes) Tel: (603) 7846 1466

CHRISTINE RESORT

CINTA SAYANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

KELAB GOLF LABUAN

BANGI GOLF RESORT

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 387 3000

(18 holes) Tel: (604) 441 4666

(9 holes) Tel: (087) 412 810

(27 holes) Tel: (603) 8925 3728

ORCHARD GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

DARULAMAN GOLF COUNTRY CLUB

KELAB GOLF SULTAN ABDUL AZIZ SHAH

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 897 7934

(18 holes) Tel: (604) 917 0001

(27 holes) Tel: (603) 5519 1512

PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

GUNUNG RAYA GOLF RESORT

(KELAB GOLF SARAWAK

TASIK PUTERI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 354 9999

(18 holes) Tel: (604) 966 8148

(36 holes) Tel: (082) 440 966

(27 holes) Tel: (603) 6034 4722

JOHOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PERMAIPURA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

BINTULU GOLF CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 223 3322

(18 holes)Tel: (604) 459 4000

(18 holes) Tel: (086) 252 001

SEBANA COVE GOLF & MARINE RESORT

ROYAL KEDAH GOLF CLUB

DAMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 826 6655

(9 holes) Tel: (604) 731 9405

(18 holes) Tel: (082) 846 088

TIOMAN ISLAND GOLF CLUB

SG.PETANI GOLF CLUB

EASTWOOD VALLEY

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 419 1000

(9 holes) Tel: (604) 422 4894

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

TROPICANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (27 holes) Tel: (603) 7804 8888 BKT BERUNTUNG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 6028 1841 BKT KEMUNING GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT (18 holes) Tel: (603) 5121 6552 BKT UNGGUL COUNTRY CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 8920 2888 DANAU GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 8925 8953 KAJANG HILL GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 8723 9668 KELAB REKREASI TENTERA UDARA (18 holes) Tel: (603) 5513 0998 KINRARA GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel : (603) 8076 2100 KOTA PERMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 5122 3700 KUNDANG LAKES COUNTRY CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 6034 2725 MONTEREZ GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 7846 5989 PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB (18holes) Tel: (603) 8948 7160 PERANGSANG TEMPLER GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (603) 6091 0022

BATU PAHAT GOLF CLUB (9 holes) Tel: (607) 432 9221

PERLIS

(18 holes) Tel: (089) 916 888

LABUAN

SARAWAK

(18 holes) Tel: (085) 421 010 HORNBILL GOLF & JUNGLE CLUB

IMPIAN EMAS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PUTRA GOLF CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (082) 577 930

(9 holes) Tel: (607) 552 2202

(18 holes) Tel: (604) 976 9660

KELAB GOLF SIBU

KLUANG COUNTRY CLUB (9 holes) Tel: (607) 771 8840

MELAKA A’FAMOSA GOLF RESORT ( 27 holes) Tel: (606) 552 0888

KELANTAN KELANTAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (609) 748 2102

TERENGGANU

(18 holes) Tel: (084) 801 119 MIRI GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: (085) 416 787

SINGAPORE SELETAR COUNTRY CLUB

AYER KEROH COUNTRY CLUB

AWANA KIJAL BEACH & GOLF RESORT

(18 holes) Tel: +65 6486 0801

(27 holes) Tel: (606) 233 2000

(18 holes) Tel: (609) 864 1188

CHANGI GOLF CLUB

ORNA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

GREEN ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(9 holes) Tel: +65 6545 5133

(27 holes) Tel: (606) 521 0333

(18 holes) Tel: (609) 616 3500

SEMBAWANG COUNTRY CLUB

TIARA MELAKA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

KELAB GOLF DESA DUNGUN

(18 holes) Tel: +65 6751 0320

(27 holes) Tel: (606) 231 1111

(18 holes) Tel: (609) 848 1041

SENTOSA GOLF CLUB

KUALA TERENGGANU GOLF RESORT

(36 holes) Tel: +65 6275 0022

(18 holes) Tel: (609) 666 6836

TANAH MERAH COUNTRY CLUB

NEGERI SEMBILAN NILAI SPRINGS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (27 holes) Tel: (606) 850 8888

PAHANG

(18 holes) Tel: +65 6592 0343 (Garden) / 6592 0345 (Tampines)

STAFFIELD COUNTRY RESORT

AWANA GENTING HIGHLANDS

WARREN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(27 holes) Tel: (603) 8766 6117

GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

(18 holes) Tel: +65 6586 1240

ERA GOLF &COUNTRY RESORT

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 6436 9000

ORCHID COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 8734 4195

(18 holes) Tel: (6019) 255 3059

BERJAYA HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(27 holes) Tel: +65 6750 2111

SERENDAH GOLF LINKS

GEMAS GOLF RESORT

(18 holes) Tel: (609) 288 8180

RAFFLES COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 6081 1077

(18 holes) Tel: (607) 948 2687

KELAB GOLF SULTAN AHMAD SHAH

(36 holes ) Tel: +65 68617649

SRI MORIB GOLF CLUB

ROYAL PALM SPRINGS GOLF CLUB

CAMERON HIGHLANDS

SAFRA RESORT & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 3198 1419

(18 holes) Tel: (606) 661 9599

(18 holes) Tel: (605) 4911126

(27 holes) Tel: +65 542 8288

SSG BERINGIN GOLF CLUB

PORT DICKSON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

ROYAL PAHANG GOLF CLUB

JURONG COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 6460 0016

(18 holes) Tel: (606) 647 3586

(18 holes) Tel: (609) 567 5811

(18 holes) Tel: +65 5 6560 5655

SUNGAI LONG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

ROYAL SRI MENANTI GOLF CLUB

KELAB GOLF BENTONG

KEPPEL CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 90762233

(18 holes) Tel: (606) 497 9600

(9 holes) Tel: (609) 222 2585

(18 holes) Tel : +65 6375 1818

THE MINES RESORT & GOLF CLUB

SEREMBAN 3 PARADISE VALLEY

KELAB REKREASI TUDM KUANTAN

LAGUNA NATIONAL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 8943 2288

(18 holes) Tel: (606) 633 5033

(9 holes) Tel: (609) 538 4282

(36 holes) Tel: +65 5 62481 777

TEMPLER PARK GOLF CLUB

SEREMBAN INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB

LIPIS VALLEY GOLF CLUB

SINGAPORE ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (603) 6091 9630

(18 holes) Tel: (606) 677 5277

(9 holes) Tel: (609) 312 1963

(81 holes) Tel: + 65 6466 2244

PORT KLANG GOLF RESORT (18 holes) Tel: (603) 3176 1323 IMPIAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PADANG GOLF UNIVERSITI PUTRA MALAYSIA (18 holes) Tel: (603) 8946 7996 KELAB DARUL EHSAN

PERAK

SABAH

CLEARWATER SANCTUARY GOLF RESORT

SUTERA HABOUR GOLF COUNTRY CLUB

(27 holes) Tel : (605) 366 7433

(27 holes) Tel: (088 ) 318 888

MERU VALLEY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

TAWAU HOT SPRINGS GOLF CLUB

(27 holes) Tel: (605) 529 3300

(18 holes) Tel: (609) 765 555

DAMAI LAUT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

BORNEO GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(18 holes) Tel: (605) 685 9333

(18 holes) Tel: (087) 861 888

PALM RESORT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

ROYAL PERAK GOLF CLUB

DALIT BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(54 holes) Tel: ( 607) 599 6222

(18 holes) Tel: (605) 542 3266

(18 holes) Tel: (088) 791 188

(9 holes) Tel: (603) 4257 2333 ROYAL KAMPUNG KUANTAN CLUB (9 holes) Tel: (603) 3289 1069

JOHOR

Help us keep this list accurate! Please send additions, corrections and updates to info@theclubhouse.com.my

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