The ClubHouse Issue 16 (Nov 2012) by The ClubHouse

INSIDE: YOUR VERY OWN SERGIO GARCIA POSTER

ISSUE 16 (11/2012)

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GROWING THE GAME IN ASIA It sounds nice enough and indeed, we should be pleased that efforts are being taken to grow the Royal & Ancient golf tournament in this region. However, as the European and PGA Tours make further inroads eastward under the guise of growing the game in Asia, it really begs the question – is Asia being taken for a ride to mask the reality that the recession-hit economies of the West no longer finds in tenable to bankroll million dollar golf events. What really chaffed me off recently was hearing a learned Golf Channel correspondent claim how the dubious one-day Duel at Jinsha Lake exhibition between Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods “can only be good for the game in Asia” and that “Asia should be happy that golf’s top stars are making the long trips across the Pacific to play in Asia.” Excuse me! I believe wholeheartedly that Tiger & company are the ones who should feel grateful that Asia is providing a windfall for them in terms of ever-rising appearance fees (even if one of the region’s top bankers felt it was right to issue a mind-boggling statement that Tiger Woods was not paid a single cent to appear in their tournament). In the bigger scheme of things, the PGA Tour has to learn the rules of engagement from the Europeans, who have co-sanctioned events with the Asian Tour since the late 90s. It is one thing to bring the FedEx Cup race to Asia but a different thing altogether to insist that only a small number of our stars can participate in these events. If the PGA Tour is sincere about its intention to grow the game here, it is imperative that its tournament fields in the region reflect just that. The Asian Tour was highly critical of the PGA Tour’s announcement midway through the CIMB Classic recently that the quota for Asian stars will remain unchanged even with the increased field next year and it is hoped that Kyi Hla Han and his men will put their foot down and insist on a bigger Asian participation. The fault however also lies in the region’s event promoters and title sponsors, who in their overzealous efforts to outdo each other with star-studded line-ups have forgotten the important role they play in ensuring that our domestic stars are given ample opportunity to play and shine in such bigmoney events. Only with such exposure can we expect our domestic heroes to shine on golf’s biggest stages and improve on the one Major winner Asia have produced thus far. On that note, I have to congratulate the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation, the Masters Tournament, the R&A and their sponsors for producing another memorable edition of the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in Thailand last month. The well-thought of tournament is fast establishing itself as one of the world’s top amateur events and in many ways, in the only tournament which is rightfully growing the game in Asia. This is the Asian century - said Australian prime minister Julia Gillard recently - and it’s time that the region stood up in unison against any form of golf imperialism.

2 CONTEST RESULTS - 1st ANNIVERSARY JACKPOT Edward Saminathan Chief Golf Writer news@theclubhouse.com.my

FIRST PRIZE - RM1000 Cash Voucher ANGELA CHEN SIEW YING - Putra Heights, Selangor SECOND PRIZE - RM500 Cash Voucher ABDUL HALIM ZAINAL - Johor Bahru, Johor THRID PRIZE - RM300 Cash Voucher TAN BOON KENG - Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor Consolation Prize winners will be contacted via phone/email

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, Martin Vousden, Normas Yakin, Richard Fellner, Scott Kramer Photography Eddie Putera, T. Ravi Chitty Brand Manager B.N. Murali Art & Design Siva Yoham Jalaguvalan Operations Associate Suzila Afirah Abdul Rauf Advertising: info@theclubhouse.com.my Editorial: news@theclubhouse.com.my Subscription: subscription@theclubhouse.com.my Website: www.theclubhouse.com.my

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IN YOUR ISSUE 16

SPOTLIGHT 9 ASIAN AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP 12 BARCLAYS SINGAPORE OPEN 14 CIMB CLASSIC

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18 INSIDE THE ROPES 27 MALAYSIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION 28 MYJUNIORS 32 INDUSTRY TALK 34 AROUND THE GLOBE 38 IN THE BAG 46 TEE BOX

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MASTER GUAN HEADS TO AUGUSTA Chinese prodigy Guan Tianlang will become the youngest-ever competitor in the history of The Masters Tournament next year after his wire-to-wire victory at the fourth Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in Thailand By Edward Saminathan

hey say it is a tournament, which distinguishes the boys from the men. However, as 14-year-old Guan Tianlang proved at the fourth Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship recently, age is but a number, experience is but a glimpse of what is behind and in more practical golf sense, distance off the tees is by no means, a guaranteed path to victory. As the slender-built Chinese wizard got down to business from the word go with a dead-panned look and the gait of his idol Tiger Woods, there was no doubt that all present were witnessing one of Asia’s brightest prospect coming into age at a tournament of immense importance for amateur golf in this region. Coming into the tournament ranked 490th on the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR), little was expected from the Guangzhou lad other than being granted the distinction of being the youngest-ever player to grace this premier stage.

But Guan obviously read a different script, as he displayed steely composure and determination under the glaring spotlight to returned with round of 66, 64, 72 and 71, giving him a 15-under total of 273 and most importantly, a nail-biting one-stroke victory over Asian number two Pan Cheng-tsung 75-67-67-65 at Amata Spring Country Club in Chonburi, Thailand. If he had previously played one hole with Tiger Woods during the pro-am tournament of the HSBC Champions in Shanghai two years ago, Guan will be lining up alongside his idol and world golf’s luminaries at the azalea-lined fairways of Augusta National come April 2013.

Guan is the first Chinese player to triumph at Asia’s premier amateur meet

his own face, finished third at 12-under, two ahead of two-time reigning champion and Asian top dog Hideki Matsuyama (68). “I’m so excited. I am very happy to become the youngest player at the Masters and looking forward to going there. I don’t know what’s going to happen there, but I know I just want to do well,” said Guan, who displayed a rare moment of emotion as he punched the air in delight after holing his five-foot par putt on 18th - a hole which he had only managed a bogey all week. “Pan really did a good job, so I just needed to focus on my game and get some more birdies and keep going. I knew Pan had a very good front nine, so I was checking the scores a bit on the back nine. I just thought if I got a couple more birdies I would be the champion,” he added. Starting the final round two shots ahead of Goss, Guan opened up a five-shot lead with birdies at the second and fourth, where Goss fell away with a double bogey. He dropped back with bogeys at seventh and ninth but birdies at 11th and 14th kept him two clear of a fast-charging Pan.

Tennessee - bound Oliver Goss finished a strong third

The Chinese Taipei star birdied the first, had a hat trick of birdies from four to six and bogeyed nine. He started the back nine with four straight birdies, before his charge was again halted by a bogey on 14, but he responded with another birdie at 15th - which turned out to be the last of his round. Guan’s lead was cut to just one after a bogey on 16th. Guan, who spends three months in Florida each summer, showed impressive

A poor opening 75 was the only blemish of Pan Cheng-tsung’s campaign

Australian teenager Oliver Goss (70-65-69-72), whose haughty prediction midway through the tournament that Guan’s challenge will unravel come the weekend rounds blew up on

Guan also secured a place in International Final Qualifying (IFQ) Asia for The Open Championship alongside the runner-up, who peppered the course with birdies en-route to a 65, only to be outdone by the schoolboy genius.

composure to par the island-green 17th before parading his mastery of the short game by hitting an exquisite chip with his 60° wedge from just off the green to five feet past the hole. After inspecting the putt from several angles and wiping his face and hands, the laidback teenager stepped up to hole the most important putt of his short career. “I had a great up and down on the last hole. I was a little bit nervous over the putt,” said Guan, who in July 2011 romped to an 11-stroke victory in the 11-12 division in the Junior World Golf Championships in San Diego before becoming the youngest-ever winner of the China Amateur Open in November that year.

In April, he made global headlines by becoming the youngest player to compete in a European Tour event.

Guan will now look to claim bigger scalps when he heads down Magnolia Lane to the golfing mecca and attempt to emulate his predecessor Matsuyama, who made the halfway cut at The Masters for two consecutive years. Moreover, do not be surprised if the unassuming, gaptoothed wonder kid pulls a fast one on Tiger & co.

“It was hot all week and it was a long course, not easy. Goss was hitting his drives 50 yards further than I was and even his two-iron was 10 yards longer than my driver was. However, I’ve had my mum and dad supporting me all week, and they gave me a little bit of advice so I just want to thank them,” noted the 2010 China Amateur Open winner.

TOURNAMENT BRIEF

With Hur Kwang-soo (President - Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation), Peter Dawson (Chief Executive R&A) & Billy Payne (Chairman - Augusta National Golf Club)

BILLY PAYNE: It’s probably too big a tournament even though we know that there are now an increasing number of countries who have expressed an interest in doing so.

TCH: The Nomura Cup used to be the flagship tournament of the APGC. Would you agree that the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship is quickly becoming the new flagship event?

I think we take significant time and energy to go to prospective sites to look at what they have to offer to make sure it matches the needs of the kids as well as the golfing environment. I think as Peter alluded to earlier, what’s really important here, approaching the importance of the golf; to give the kids a spirit that they have never been fortunate enough to have; to take the resources that we are given at Augusta and at the R&A, and to use that to inspire young kids to be players; whether they choose to remain amateurs or professionals, it’s to excite them about the game.

KWANG SOO HUR: Yes, that’s a very good question, and I asked myself that question once. However, honestly speaking, I have to say that before we launched the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in partnership with Augusta National and the R&A, definitely that was the most important international tournament for APGC. Nevertheless, if we all agree with the kind of points that Mr. Chairman of Augusta National mentioned; that we are here to promote golf in Asia Pacific and to produce future golfing heroes. In that sense, I have to say that the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship tournament is going to be a little more important than Nomura - that is my personal opinion.

There was no hat-trick for Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama

In the absence of our national number one and Malaysian Amateur Open champion Gavin Kyle Green, whose priorities now lie in the United States of America, the Malaysian challenge was spearheaded by Malaysian Junior Open champion Low Khai Jei. The youngster flirted with a top ten finish through three rounds before settling for a final round of two-over 74 to finish his campaign in a tie for 23rd on evenpar 288.

Abel Tam settled for sole 32nd on 295 with a final round 74 while Mohd Afif Mohd Razif, who was due to start his SPM examinations a day after the tournament, carded his second 79 of the week to finish 61st with a 310 overall. The other three Malaysians - Muhammad Arie Irawan Ahmad Fauzi, Chan Tuck Soon and Albright Chong bowed out early after missing the halfway cut which came at nine-over 153.

TCH: We have seen mainstream countries such as Australia, Korea, Japan dominating the tournament but it must give you pride to see smaller countries as Nepal and Mongolia participating. I am sure the R&A has invested a lot in these countries to develop the game. Can you share your thoughts on that? PETER DAWSON: You are quite right; indeed, we try to use as much of the commercial success of The Open Championship as we can to help golf development around the world and in this region in particular. Moreover, it is wonderful to see countries, as you say, like Mongolia, Nepal and even, Kyrgyzstan playing at this event. I am sure that their standard of golf is going to improve and they will be competing in future years. I think, as well, the acceptance of golf back into the programme of the Olympics has had a significant effect in a number of countries in terms of government support for the game. That’s really one of the targets we have in bidding for golf to get back into the Olympics. We are delighted that is happening. There are many factors at play here, which are good for golf now and we have to keep capitalising on. TCH: The tournament returns to China next year and then, Australia in 2014. As the tournament matures, will be come to a point one day that countries can bid to host the event or is it still going to be through a rigorous selection process?

Therefore, if that means we continually go to different and various places to do it, then that’s what we are going to do. However, I think in terms of whether they would propose to us, I’m not certain about that, we are pretty good at selecting places with the objective of promoting the game. PETER DAWSON: I would absolutely echo that. I think we want to take the championship to as many countries as possible, but obviously balanced with giving that quality experience that Billy Payne just mentioned, we are looking forward very much to going to Nanshan in China. The year after that, we are going to Royal Melbourne and wit was great to see Richard Allen and his team from Royal Melbourne, wonderful golf course down in the sand belt, and that will be a great experience for all of the players, too. TCH: In terms of going to the next edition, which is the fifth edition of this tournament, it has become quite an established tournament. Do you have any personal feelings on what the room for growth is? BILLY PAYNE: I think the reason that we created a partnership and focused our efforts here in the Asia Pacific region was because we believe this is the greatest opportunity for growth of the game: Sheer numbers, the relatively small development of the game to date. In addition, part of our obligation is we conduct our own tournaments as we think about ways that our success can become others’ success. Therefore, that motivated us when we began this initiative and that’s what motivates us today. We have been fortunate at Augusta to have the best teacher in the world with 200 years of experience of promoting the game of golf (in the R&A) and we have been very privileged to be a part of the partnership.

Italian youngster Matteo Manassero becomes the youngest ever player to win three European Tour titles with a dramatic playoff victory over Louis Oosthuizen at the Barclays Singapore Open By Justine Moss triumphed over last year’s third placed majorwinner Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa with a spectacular 12-footer for an eagle on the third playoff hole after both had finished regulation play with a score of 13-under-par. Manassero, who took home a US$1 million cheque, had to complete his third round earlier in the day like the rest of the field, and in total played 36 holes in Singapore’s searing heat on Sunday due to rain delays during the first two days.

Manassero celebrates his eagle on the third extra hole to seal his hat-trick of European Tour titles

n what was Barclays’ seventh and final year of title sponsorship, it was a fittingly exciting finish on the final day with record crowds, thankfully no rain, confirmation of the 2012 Race to Dubai winner and the youngest winner in the history of the Barclays Singapore Open. Matteo Manassero, the 19-year-old Italian who won the 2011 Maybank Malaysian Open and the 2010 Castelló Masters Costa Azahar,

“It has been an extremely long day. The adrenaline kept me going and fortunately the key was starting very well this morning after coming back on the course and I started with some birdies in a row (during the third round) which was very good. It gave me a lot of adrenaline to go forward”, he said after his win, which made him the first teenager to have three European Tour crowns to his name.

MANNY SIZZLES IN SENTOSA

“I have to be fair with you; no I did not think I would have three tournament wins before my 20th birthday. This year has been a little tougher year for me as I am going through a few swing changes but it has been amazing this week really. I am glad this came and I am

Oosthuizen could not believe his eyes as his winning birdie putt on the second playoff hole veered right off the pin

He picked up €289,297 for his effort, which was enough to take him over the winning line with earnings of €3,696,597, in addition to US$8,047,953 he won on the American circuit this year.

glad it came in a great tournament like the Barclays Singapore Open.”

Then there was the infamous sponsors’ invite John Daly, who huffed and puffed his way around the pristine Serapong tract at Sentosa Golf Club before deciding that it was not worth the effort and throwing in the towel as a lightning threats saw the second round abandoned on Friday.

Adam Scott

Barclays will not be back but the good news is that ‘Asia’s Major’ will continue for at least another five years. Organisers World Sport Group (WSG), who have been at the helm of the tournament since 2005 (and have helped grow it into one of the most popular and prestigious events in Asia with prize money rising from US$2 million to US$6 million) may have yet to announce a new sponsor of the Singapore Open. However, they inked a new agreement with the Singapore Golf Association to take the event to 2017. It didn’t come as a total surprise then that the likes of Scott and Mickelson added their voices to growing speculation that the US$6 million tournament will become part of the PGA Tour’s Asian swing that will include the CIMB Classic and WGC-HSBC Champions - both events having earned official money status on the FedEx Cup race in 2013.

McIlroy clinched the European Tour’s Race to Dubai. He had already claimed the US PGA Tour money title, by finishing sole third after holing a downhill putt for eagle.

Thomas Bjorn

“It has always been one of my goals to become top-ranked player in Europe ever since securing my Tour card five years ago, but then to also end the year as both European and PGA Tour number one is just amazing. I feel so proud and humbled to join so many fabulous names in Europe who have won the Order of Merit,” added McIlroy, who attracted as much fanfare as his beau Caroline Wozniacki, the WTA tennis hotshot, who was accompanying the world number one on his return to the Lion City.

Edoardo Molinari

This year’s Singapore Open – which is co-sanctioned by both the European and Asian Tours - attracted a stellar cast which included world number one Rory McIlroy, three time champion Adam Scott, Phil Mickelson, Thomas Bjorn, the Molinari brothers - Edoardo and Francesco and Colin Montgomerie.

Chris Jordan (left) of World Sport Group and Bob Tan of Singapore Golf Association put pen to paper, taking the event through 2015

Rory McIlory sealed his victory on the Race to Dubai with a strong closing round display

“It really is hugely satisfying to finally become the European number one, especially after finishing second two of the last three years,” said the Ulsterman.

14 A victory kiss for wife Amber

WATNEY BEATS TIGER & CO

Tiger Woods stole all the headlines as Nick Watney kept his head low and counted the birdies to clinch a memorable victory at the CIMB Classic

ick Watney claimed an early anniversary gift on October 28, buoyed by a stunning final round ten-under 61 to edge past defending champion Bo Van Pelt (66) and third round co-leader Robert Garrigus (66) to capture the CIMB Classic title. The tall American, two days shy of celebrating his second year of marriage to wife Amber, rode on a hot putter as he drained 11 birdies at the sun-baked MINES Resort & Golf Club to claim a slim one-stroke victory in the US$6.1 million event co-sanctioned by the PGA and Asian Tours.

Top draw Tiger Woods, who single-handedly attracted thousands through the gates over four days, was on the prowl early on with a run of six birdies through 10 holes but endured a dry patch coming home to settle for a round of eight-under 63 and a share of fourth alongside Zimbabwean Brendon de Jonge and Chris Kirk. South African Jbe Kruger emerged as the leading Asian Tour performer in eighth position after a 68 while India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar took a share of 10th place after signing for a 67. Thai

It however proved enough for him as Van Pelt, who needed a birdie on the last to force extra holes, could only respond with a par putt after sending his second shot across the green and failing to chip in successfully from the sand trap.

Watney bandied around with a magical 59 through 17 holes but just like Van Pelt’s third round, he fell victim to a bogey on the closing hole after failing to reach the green with his approach and leaving his long birdie pitch just short for his only blemish of the round.

Nick Watney was peerless on the final round

star Thaworn Wiratchant, currently leading the Asian Tour Order of Merit, fired a 66 for a tied 16th spot. Watney’s triumph was his second of the season and the world number 22 did it in style to pick up the winner’s cheque of US$1.3 million. “The round sort of built momentum and things just kept getting better and better. I’m thrilled to have come away with a win,” said Watney, who totalled a 22-under 262. He shared that the thought of shooting the first ever 59 in Asia crossed his mind when he sank his 11th birdie of the day on the 17th hole. “Well, you know, I was more concerned with just winning the tournament. I hit a decent drive, and it plugged in the left rough, and I took a drop. And the ball went into a divot in the rough. So 59 kind of went out of the window right there. Winning the tournament was more important than 59 for me,” he said. The 31-year-old took pleasure in upstaging Woods on his maiden trip to Kuala Lumpur. “I really enjoyed beating Tiger. Any time that you can play in this era, I think everybody would

“I think I actually played the best I played all week, just couldn’t get a putt in. They always say the guy that makes the most putts is going to win. I think I had probably 34 or35 putts,” said Kruger, who won the Avantha Masters in India earlier this year.

“It’s never the winnings, it’s always about the experience. You can’t buy experience.”

A drained Tiger Woods dazzled thousands

The domestic challenge never got off the ground with Chia finishing as the top placed Malaysian for the second year running at The MINES Resort & Golf Club, settling for a final round of four-under 67 for

Surprise package Robert Gorrigus finished tied second

agree these last 15 years, he has been by far the biggest attraction in our sport, so I think it’s great for every tournament that he comes to.” Van Pelt, who arrived for his CIMB Classic defence in top form after winning the ISPS Handa Perth International the week before, saluted Watney’s final round heroics. “You’ve got to tip your cap; a guy goes out and shoots 10 under, he just wins the golf tournament. Big congratulations to Nick. He’s a great player, and he just went out and won the tournament,” said Van Pelt.

Bo Van Pelt fell one short in the end

Kruger was delighted with his finish which saw him pick up a cheque worth US$175,000. Beginning on day two, he started strongly with a birdie and eagle on the second and third holes before his putter went cold.

a three-under 281 to take sole possession of 43rd. Compatriot Shaaban broke par for the first time all week with a closing 68 to settle for 47th on one-over 285, two shots clear of last placed Scott Hend of Australia.

World number two Woods threatened to steal the show but left himself with too much to do despite a blemish-free closing effort. “My goal was to get to 20-plus,” said the world number two. “That’s the only chance I had. It ended up not being much of a chance. Yesterday’s last nine holes (where he shot 39), put me in a spot where I really couldn’t win the championship.”

JBE kruger proved that the Asian Tour could punch above its weight

“I’ll probably look back at the two doubles I made during the week without a penalty shot that probably ended up costing me in the end. But all in all, it was a great week.”

INSIDE THE ROPES

ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET!

The Thailand Golf Championship once again takes centerstage with its strong international line-up boasting Major winners, proven Order of Merit champions and a strong contingent of Japanese and Asian stars

asters champion Bubba Watson and World Golf Championship winner Hunter Mahan will join defending champion Lee Westwood of England in a star-studded field for the eagerly awaited second edition of the 2012 Thailand Golf Championship at Amata Spring Country Club from December 6 to 9.

European line-up including the likes of Nicolas Colsaerts and Simon Dyson.

an in-form Prom Meesawat, Prayad Marksaeng and talented 23 year-old Arnond Vongvanij.

Japanese mega-star Ryo Ishikawa, who ended a two-year title drought with a victory at the

World number four and European Ryder Cup

Darren Clarke Charl Schwartzel Louis Oosthuizen

Four other Major champions – Northern Ireland’s Darren Clarke (2011 Open champion), South Africans Charl Schwartzel (2011 Masters champion), Louis Oosthuizen (2010 Open champion) and John Daly (1991 PGA Championship winner & 1995 Open champion) have also committed to play in this year’s US$1 million Asian Tour event. Also adding to the excitement will be Spain’s Sergio Garcia, who will headline a high-profile

Taiheiyo Masters on November 11, will lead a strong contingent of JGTO stars including Hiroyuki Fujita, Yuta Ikeda, Kenichi Kuboya and Shingo Katayama. The domestic challenge will be led by Thongchai Jaidee, an Asian Tour legend with three Order of Merit crown to his name and his compatriot Thaworn Wiratchant, who will like to seize the initiative of finishing top of the Asian Tour’s money list with an inspired display at home alongside other local hopefuls such as

stalwart Westwood won the full-field Asian Tour title in majestic style last year, storming to a comfortable seven-shot victory after opening his campaign with a stunning 12-under-par 60 and flirting with the magical 59 which has never been shot on the Asian Tour. He is raring to complete a successful title defence, just as he did in Jakarta earlier in the year. “I had an incredible time last year. The fans were great and backed me all week. I love Amata Spring as its layout suits my style of play and the greens are fast and firm. I’m excited to be returning. Anyone can win the tournament but I’ll do my best to defend the title,” he said.

INSIDE THE ROPES

Thongchai Jaidee

Heading the organising committee is Suwat Lipatapanlop, who believes the second edition of the Thailand Golf Championship will surpass last year’s excitement with the inclusion of new star players. “We enjoyed tremendous success last year,’’ he said. ‘’The Thailand Golf Championship will not only celebrate the special occasion of His Majesty the King’s 85th birthday, but will boost the image and reputation of Thailand. It will help promote tourism and display Thailand’s capability in hosting international events as well as its attraction as a golf destination.” He expressed delight with the early confirmation of world-class players. “Great golfers from all continents will be taking part this year and I am sure golf fans and spectators will have a great time.” Playing a key role in the success of the tournament is the quality of the Amata Spring course which was praised by the players last year. Amata Spring Country Club executive director Sarath Ratanavadi said the club was honoured to be a part of this great event. Amata Spring is recognised around the world as one of the best golf courses in Asia where its signature par three 17th hole has a floating island green which is accessible only by boat.

GARCIA, MAHAN LOOK FOR SEASON-END HIGHS

yder Cup hero Sergio Garcia and American star Hunter Mahan are aiming to finish their respective seasons on a high at Amata Springs Country Club come the Thailand Golf Championship this December. Mahan, a two-time winner on the PGA Tour this year and current world number 23 has never played in Thailand but a holiday visit convinced him to return with his clubs. “My wife, Kandi, and I went on a vacation in Thailand a couple of years ago. We love to travel and it was definitely one of our favourite trips. The beaches were beautiful, the food was great- we had a really good time so I thought it was a great place for me to play, a great place for me to see and to show Thailand what kind of golfer I am,” said Mahan. “And with golf now days, golf is a global sport and so you need to travel and you need to expand yourself, and it’s an opportunity to test myself and put myself in a different situation I’ve never been in before. So I really look forward to it.” The Texas-native appeared unperturbed by the prospects of playing in the infamous Thai heat. “Playing in intense heat is something I’m used

BUBBA GOLF TO THAILAND

“We will work hard to ensure the course and club is in excellent condition for the players again. We will make the course more challenging which should add to the excitement for both players and spectators. The golf course is in perfect condition to welcome the players for the Thailand Golf Championship,” said Sarath.

to. We play in tournaments throughout the summer on the PGA Tour where the heat is definitely a factor. You just have to prepare for it- make sure you’re hydrated and make your practice sessions shorter and more focused,” he said. Fully recovered after recent eye surgery to correct an astigmatism, Spanish superstar Sergio Garcia is looking to finish his season on a high. “It would be great (to win). I will have three tournaments towards the end of the year. I had the surgery but everything went very well. I hope I can play good, finish on a high note and get ready for next year,” he said. Garcia finished the 2011 Thailand Golf Championship tied 24th and is relishing his return to the tournament. “I really like Thailand, I have been there for holiday and I really enjoyed the country. The tournament is very well organised, and I think it is a very nice tournament; everyone does a great job there. Also for the last year, the tournament had a very good field with very good players, and the golf course is very nice. I really enjoy the golf course, it was very challenging and in great shape, a lot of good things for a good tournament,” said the Spaniard. “I would love to walk away with the trophy there. I’m looking forward to going to the Thailand Golf Championship and challenging myself and challenging the golf course and trying to beat some of the best players in the world,” said the 34-year-old Watson. Watson said Westwood convinced him to commit to the Thailand Golf Championship, which will be only his second trip to Asia after featuring in the WGC-HSBC Champions in China last week.

wash-buckling American lefthander Bubba Watson makes his debut at the prestigious US$1 million Asian Tour tournament and is aiming for his first international victory to cap a life-changing season in 2012.

“Lee won it last year and he said it was a great event and he enjoyed his time there. I heard there are some islands which are beautiful and I would like to do some sight-seeing after the event,” he said.

INSIDE THE ROPES

MAJOR FLAVOUR TO ISKANDAR JOHOR OPEN

Michael Campbell

Ernie Els and Michael Campbell add star power to stellar line-up at the sixth edition of Johor’s premier golf tournament

Ernie Els

eigning Open champion winner Ernie Els will add Major pedigree to the Iskandar Johor Open this December when he tees off the sixth edition of the prestigious event presented by Iskandar Waterfront.

Campbell has been back in contention for victories this season with a strong showing particularly in the second half of the year including a third place at the Portugal Masters, his highest finish since the beginning of 2008.

The imposing South African nicknamed ‘The Big Easy’ is one of golf’s most global stars with 65 international victories and will look to cap a memorable season with a solid display as he debuts at the Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club from December 13-16.

His season also includes a share for 11th at the Alstom Open de France, a tied 14th finish at the Omega European Masters and more recently, at the UBS Hong Kong Open, where he rounded up in eighth after co-leading the tournament through 54 holes.

New Zealander Michael Campbell is another Major champion to book his appearance at the US$2 million Asian Tour season-finale, joining the earlier confirmed top draws Sergio Garcia and former Asian number one Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand in the impressive field.

“I have always enjoyed playing in Malaysia but it will be my first time playing in the Iskandar Johor Open, and I am looking forward to being a contender. My game is in a good place at the moment, and I am looking to continue the momentum I’ve gained from solid performances over the past few months.”

Els, who overcame a six-stroke deficit to clinch his second Claret Jug victory at the Royal Lytham & St Annes, appears close to regaining his Major-winning form after returning from an ankle injury and seeks to improve on his tied second finish at the HSBC Champions in November.

“It would be great to end the year with a victory at Horizon Hills Golf Club so I’ll be going all out to achieve it,” said the Kiwi, who is a regular in this part of the world, having won the Dunhill Masters back in 1995.

“I am looking forward to playing in the Iskandar Johor Open. I’m doing a couple of golf courses around the corner from there and it’ll be a good time to be down in Malaysia,” said Els, who has put his name to a new integrated golfing development on the Desaru coastline. “Middle of December, I’m not going to be playing a lot of golf. I’ll have a bit of a holiday after the event but the start of the year will be just around the corner. I like to kick-start 2013 with the last event of the year, so to speak and it’ll be very nice,” added the 42-year-old globetrotter.

Despite a short-lived marriage with the European Tour last year, the tournament which can count on the likes of Retief Goosen, K.J. Choi and Padraig Harrington as past winners, is keen to build upon its new found status as the Fastest Growing Tournament on the Asian Tour by crowning the Tour’s new number one as well as more crucially, deciding the battle for tour cards further down the Money List. Only the top 60 players will retain their playing rights in 2013. Thaworn Wiratchant appears the favourite to pick up his second Order of Merit crown ahead of current front-runner Marcus Fraser after the Australian elected to skip the remaining three

events on the Asian Tour to return Down Under for the Australian Open and the Australian PGA Championship.

Thaworn Wiratchant

But the wily Thai maestro, a three-time winner this year, is not taking anything for granted, preferring to keep his guard high with the knowledge that any slip-up can pave the way for the likes of Jbe Kruger and in-form Indian Gaganjeet Bhullar to claim the prestigious title. There will however be fewer starts for locals this year - a contentious point of argument but a reflection of the poor performance by domestic challengers at the tournament in recent years. Asian Tour regulars Danny Chia, Shaaban Hussin, Sukree Othman, S. Sivachandhran and Ben Leong will be joined by the top three finishers at the national qualifiers on November 26 as well as two amateurs - notably the winner of the Johor Amateur Open on the entry list. With a stellar field set to gather down south this December with much to play for, it is clear that we’re going to have a cracker of a tournament in our hands.

INSIDE THE ROPES

NEW CHALLENGES BECKON FOR STARS AT HORIZON HILLS

fast maturing Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club is ready to once again open its doors to a stellar cast of international players and the top guns of the Asian Tour as it hosts the prestigious Iskandar Johor Open for the third year running this December 13-16. The Ross Watson-designed tract opened for play in 2008 and took only two years before it was deemed ready to stage Johor’s premier

golfing event, which this year acts as the season-ending championship on the Asian Tour schedule. From its infancy, the course has been described as one of the best layouts south of the country. Watson felt the site provided a great opportunity to create a layout with infinite variety, particularly the dramatic elevation changes on almost every hole, providing a riskreward balance. A harmonious mix of classical bunkering with sweeping sand faces and strategically located cascading waterfalls, pristine ponds and waterways provide the perfect contrast to the lush green fairways and consistent putting surfaces that pose many interesting challenges to both professionals as well as aspiring amateurs. The club’s general manager Tang Meng Loon (left) expects the course to provide a sterner test as he explained some of the preparations being made ahead of the arrival of top stars such as Sergio Garcia and Thongchai Jaidee. “We have added a lot of mature trees on the course, narrowing some of the fairways, increasing the height of rough and providing slick and tricky greens. This is to enhance the challenging nature of the golf course.”

“We feel that swapping the front nine and back nine for the first time will make the game more interesting for 2012, the third consecutive year we are hosting the event here,” shared Tang, who noted that players with high driving accuracy and those yielding a hot putter will be the strongest contenders to the title held by Dutchman Joost Luiten. The fifth edition of the prestigious tournament bore the brunt of torrential storms last year and while the tract proved up to the mark in handling the punishing rainfall, further work and enhancement exercises have been undertaken to the 6,714-m course; these include sub-soil drainage pipe and sand capping to further improve the condition of the fairways, planting additional shrubs for improved landscaping as well as maintaining the smooth and slick putting surfaces. Tang also noted that publicity generated by the US$2 million tournament, which last year was named the Fastest Growing Tournament at the Asian Tour Awards, has played an important role in elevating Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club to greater heights. All of this work, combined with the easy access to spectators heading towards Horizon Hills via the new coastal highway from Johor Bahru and Tuas in Singapore, makes this a must-do trip for those nearby this December.

PRIDE OF JOHOR

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INSIDE THE ROPES

NICHOLAS ENDS BARREN RUN IN SEREMBAN Airil Rizman Zahari, who started the final round at five-under, moved into contention when he went up to nine-under through seven holes but dropped four shots around the turn to finish 6-under 282 alongside joint overnight leader S. Sivachandhran (73) and Mohd Azman Basharuddin (71). Veteran M.Ramayah, who had inspired run at the RM125,000 tournament, closed with an evenpar 72 to total four-under 288 in joint sixth place with Akhmal Tarmizee and S. Murthy.

abahan Nicholas Fung snapped his winless streak with a strong final round display to triumph at the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Negeri Sembilan Classic on October 20.

The playoff proved to be a damper after Iylia pulled his tee-shot right into the trees while Nicholas eased into the first cut with two shots. With the former only finding the green with his fourth shot, the 21-year-old from Kota Kinabalu had the luxury of two putts to claim a morale-boosting victory and take home his share of RM21,000. “I’m delighted with the finish because I was

“I know I had a good chance coming into the final round but I only managed two birdies coming into the final hole, so I knew that I had to finish strongly,” he added. Iylia was pleased with his effort despite missing out on his second PGM Tour title. “I can’t really complain [about the outcome] because I played a really fantastic round. To be honest, I thought I had done enough to claim the win and my batteries were running low when I went back down the long 18th again,” stated the 21-year-old, who won the PGAM-KRPM Classic in July.

Leading final round scores 278 - Nicholas Fung (72-67-70-69) Mohd Iylia Jamil (73-68-70-67) Nicholas wins on first playoff hole 282 - Airil Rizman Zahari (70-68-73-71) S. Sivachandhran (Z66-74-69-73) Azman Basharuddin (70-73-68-71) 284 - Md Rashid Ismail (65-71-76-72 Akhmal Tarmizee Nazari (71-66-74-73) S. Murthy (76-69-67-72) M. Ramayah (67-76-69-72) 285 - Daniel Ng (72-69-67-72) Filipino veteran Antonio Lascuna from the Philippines was two shots adrift in third place with a round of 66 while George Gandranata (69) finished as the leading Indonesian in fourth on 11-under-par 277. Nicholas was two shots behind playing partner Gunn at the turn, but stormed ahead with a birdie on 11th and an eagle on the 14th as Gunn dropped a shot on the 13th to see the title slip away.

Nicholas, who had notched six runner-up finishes, including four on the burgeoning domestic circuit this year, bettered Iylia Jamil on the first extra hole at Seremban International Golf Club after both players had finished on ten-under 278 in regulation 72 holes.

Iylia thought he had done enough to clinch his second professional win of the season by setting the clubhouse lead with a closing sixunder 66. But Nicholas drained a birdie putt on the 18th hole to force a sudden-death shootout after missing a 12-footer for eagle.

a bit nervous going into the playoff. I have not been putting well this year and have struggled to convert my chances in a few events, so I am just glad that I’ve brought the barren run to an end,” shared a relieved Fung, whose last victory came at the PGM Sarawak Classic in September last year.

PALEMBANG HIGH FOR NICHOLAS

n-form Nicholas Fung exacted a sweet revenge on Gunn Charoenkul of Thailand to clinch his first ASEAN PGA Tour victory in two years at the US$120,000 Palembang MUSI Championship on October 28. Nicholas, who had lost to his Thai opponent in a sudden-death playoff at the Singha Esan Open in August, fired a superb eagle on the

14th for a closing 68 to finish two strokes ahead of Gunn (70) at the Palembang Golf Club. It was the 21-year-old Sabahan’s second victory in a week, coming on the back of his domestic title win in Seremban last Saturday. Nicholas claimed a cheque of US$24,050, to move to the top of the ASEAN PGA Merit list.

“This is fantastic. Gunn has been playing so well so it gives me a lot of confidence. I am delighted because I have been able to snap the winless-streak with back-to-back victories,” said Nicholas. Leading final round scores (Malaysian unless stated) 270 Nicholas Fung (68-68-66-68) 272 Gunn Charoenkul (THA) (65-70-67-70) 274 Antonio Lascuna (PHI) (69-69-70-66) 277 George Gandranata (INA) (67-74-67-69) 279 Andik Mauluddin (INA) (69-70-74-66) Mardan Mamat (SIN) (72-70-69-68) Rattano Wannasrichan (THA) (71-72-66-70) Varut Chomchalam (THA) (72-69-67-71) 281 Andi Yatmo (INA) (70-71-72-68), Wisut Artjanawat (THA) (71-67-72-71)

INSIDE THE ROPES

BAYRON TOPS ADT STANDINGS WITH MIRI VICTORY The Filipino is now a step closer to securing a 2013 Asian Tour card as the top three players on the Order of Merit will earn playing rights on the region’s established Tour. “I knew how important this win would mean to me and my rankings on the Order of Merit. It isn’t easy to finish in the top three of the Merit list but I know that it is even more stressful trying to earn your Asian Tour card in Qualifying School.” © RaviChitty / The Clubhouse

“This win means a lot to me. I’m happy I won and now I’m quite confident of staying inside the safety zone. I just need a good result in Chinese Taipei (Yeangder ADT Championship, which is the last event of the season) to cement my position,” said Bayron.

ayron tops ADT standings with Miri victory Jay Bayron of the Philippines won his third Asian Development Tour (ADT) title by defeating Hsu Mong-nan of Chinese Taipei and local challenger Nicholas Fung by one-shot at the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Eastwood Valley Masters on November 3. Bayron, who started the final round with a three-shot lead, carded an even-par 72 to win his second ADT title of the season, which propelled him to the top of the Order of Merit.

Brian Locke-s up first win

Hsu and Fung made a final round charge of 70 and 68, respectively but had to settle for tied second at the US$80,000 ADT event staged at the Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club. Bayron was delighted to overcome the pressure from Hsu and Fung as he held on to his overnight lead with three birdies against as many bogeys. “I felt the pressure throughout the round. I came from behind to win in Indonesia, so to be leading going into the last day was different for me,” said Bayron, who totalled 11-under-par 277 and won US$14,000.

rian Locke of the United States dominated the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) MIDF KLGCC Masters with a sensational final round of five-under-par 66 to win by six shots. Locke outplayed the field from start-to-finish for his biggest and first professional win outside of the United States at the weather-shortened RM180,000 (approximately US$60,000) Asian Development Tour (ADT) event, which took place from November 8-11. Hsu Mong-nan of Chinese Taipei capped his second successive runner-up finish on the ADT following a 69 while Scotland’s James Byrne and Chang Tse-peng of Chinese Taipei were a further shot back in tied third place at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club’s East Course.

Despite playing in only his second ADT event this season, Locke put on a virtuoso performance where he turned in 34 and romped home with two pairs of birdies for a winning total of 12-under-par 201. “It is exciting to win. This is probably my biggest professional win in my career. I won five little events back home. This is the most exciting moment of my golf career, minus the time when I qualified for the US Open last year,” said the 25-year-old Locke, who credited his Asian Tour peers Ben Fox and David Lipsky for encouraging him to come out to Asia.

Leading final round scores (Malaysian unless stated) 277 – Jay Bayron (PHI) (67-71-67-72) 278 – Nicholas Fung (73-70-67-68), Hsu Mong-Nan (TPE) (66-71-71-70) 280 – Sukree Othman (69-73-70-68) 281 – Sofian Kepli (73-67-72-69) 282 – Hirotaro Naito (JPN) (69-74-69-70) 283 – Park Jin-Woo (KOR) (69-71-69-74) 284 – Mitsuhiko Hashizume (JPN) (72-72-69-71) 285 – James Byrne (SCO) (74-70-70-71) 286 – Carl Santos Ocampo (PHI) (72-72-71-71), R. Nachimuthu (70-73-68-75) “I’m still new in Asia but I hit the ball well and my game was in a good place. This is a really nice golf course and the conditions were very good, which made it easier to score,” he added. Locke was unfamiliar with the constant weather delays which forced the tournament to be reduced to 54 holes, but he kept a cool head through the week and was rewarded with a winner’s pay cheque of US$10,500. “We don’t get much rain back home so this is new to me. We had to wait around two or three hours here and there. I tried to stay focus and hydrated. It took some patience to come in early and finish the round,” said Locke, who turned professional in 2009.

Leading final round scores (Malaysian unless stated) 201 – Brian Locke (USA) 67-68-66 207 – Hsu Mong-nan (TPE) 68-70-69 208 – James Byrne (SCO) 71-69-68, Chang Tse-peng (TPE) 68-70-70 210 – Kim Gi-whan (KOR) 71-71-68, Mohd Hafiy Afiq Suhaili 73-68-69, Iain Steel 68-72-70, Lindsay Renolds (CAN) 70-70-70, Nick Redfern (ENG) 69-69-72, Carl Santos-Ocampo (PHI) 70-68-72, Peter Richardson (ENG) 69-68-73

INSIDE THE ROPES

NICHOLAS NEARS MERIT VICTORY WITH GLENMARIE TITLE

icholas Fung took a big step towards clinching the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Order of Merit crown as he claimed the UMW Glenmarie Classic win on November 22. The in-form Sabahan saw off the challenge of overnight leader Sukree Othman (72), closing with brilliant three-under 69 at Glenmarie Golf & Country Club to claim his third victory in five starts. Nicholas totalled eight-under par 280 to claim a winner’s share of RM21,900 in the RM130,000 event, which was the penultimate tournament on the PGM Tour extending his lead over reigning champion R. Nachimuthu on the Merit list. The 21-year-old traded three birdies against two bogeys to haul himself level with the four-time PGM Tour winner at the turn and took advantage of Sukree’s crucial slip on the 16th for a two-shot swing in his favour.

M. Sasidaran, who has struggled with form for much of the season, was delighted to come in third, carding a one-under 71 for a 285 total. Six strokes adrift in fourth was S. Murthy (67)while Merit contender Nachimuthu was a further shot behind on 292, on the back of consecutive rounds of 75. Admitting that contest proved to be close, Nicholas was delighted to finish off the weather-delayed tournament just as the rain clouds began forming over the Valley tract. “It’s been a long and tiring week for of all us, so I’m just glad to finish. Winning is definitely a bonus but I’m pleased with the way I handled myself this week,” he said. He endured his own rough stretch when he three-putted on the sixth before finding the water with an errant approach on the next hole for back-to-back bogeys. But with the leading pair seemingly inseparable, an error in club selection by Sukree with two holes to play paved the way for him “I was surprised that he (Sukree) missed his par putt but I took my chance with a birdie there to pull ahead. That was the turning point today because it gave me a lot of confidence ahead of 17th and 18th, which are difficult holes,” he added.

Young professional Hafiy Afiq Suhaili receives a personal sponsorship of RM20,000 from UMW

Nicholas now has the opportunity of achieving a Merit double as he also leads the ASEAN PGA Tour Merit list ahead of the season ending Sabah Masters in January. “A lot of it is form, I’m really feeling good with my game at the time being but I don’t want to raise my expectations

just yet. I know I have a good chance, so I’m just going to try my best at Impian and take it from there,” shared Nicholas. Sukree was able to console himself with his overall performance but knows that he has to eliminate silly errors if he is to justify his early season exploits. “Overall I am happy with my game. Mistakes cost me the title but I like the way my new putter (TaylorMade Ghost Spider S) felt and I hope to do better at the season finale,” said Sukree. Leading final round scores 280 – Nicholas Fung 71-70-70-69 282 – Sukree Othman 66-74-70-72 285 – M.Sasidaran 69-77-68-71 291 – S.Murthy 76-72-76-67 292 – R.Nachimuthu 70-72-75-75 293 – Danny Chia 71–74-74-74 294 – Airil Rizman Zahari 74-75-72-73 295 – Anis Helmi Abu Hassan 76-70-76-73 296 – Wilson Choo 72-77-71-76, S.Sivachandran 74-77-71-74, Akhmal Tarmizee Nazari 76-74-77-69 Order of Merit (after UMW Glenmarie Classic) 1 Nicholas Fung (13) RM149,435.00 2 R. Nachimuthu (19) RM130,836.83 3 Sukree Othman (16) RM121,798.35 4 Airil Rizman Zahari(19) RM113,645.45 5 Md Rashid Ismail (17) RM101,425.19 6 S. Murthy (19) RM98,225.33 7 S. Sivachandhran (17) RM63,857.22 8 Shaifubari Muda (19) RM 56,792.11 9 Kenneth De Silva (16) RM55,118.03 10 Akhmal Tarmizee (18) RM52,667.41

MALAYSIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION

SYUKRIZAL, DOTTIE REIGN IN PENANG

cehnese Syukrizal claimed an emphatic victory at the BSG Property-Nationgate Penang Amateur Open on November 8 - his first major amateur win. The 21-year-old Syukrizal carded rounds of 73, 69 and 75 at Bukit Jawi Golf Resort to return a one-over 217 total, finishing eight strokes ahead of second-placed Fairul Hafiz (71-73-81) while Muhammad Thaznim (75-78-74), who was two strokes adrift on 10-over 227, took third spot. “Words can describe my feelings,” shared Syukrizal. It is incredible that my first victory came abroad and I must thank the Riau provincial committee (of the Indonesian Golf Association) for giving me the opportunity to gain some overseas playing experience. “It was a tough contest and I did not expect to lead coming into the final round but luckily, I managed to hold on for the victory despite a poor final round,” added the four-handicapper. The ladies category saw a strong Filipino contingent led by former Malaysian Ladies Amateur Open winner Dottie Ardina complete a sweep of the top five places. The 18-year-old topped the standings with a three-day haul of three-over 219 on the back of rounds of 72,72 and 75 for a two-stroke victory over Cyna Rodriguez (70-75-76). Bianca Pagdanganan was third on nine-over 226 (73-75-76). Siti Zulaikhaa Shaari, who was placed sixth with a score of 17 over 234, emerged as the best Malaysian finisher.

NATIONAL INTER-CLUB CHAMPIONS CROWNED

oyal Pahang Golf Club and host Penang Golf Resort emerged as the biggest winners of the 19th AXA Affin General Insurance National Inter-Club Team Championship as a shortage of teams highlighted the need for organisers to return to the drawing board for future editions.

The two-day championship, which concluded on November 1, only managed to attract 17 Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) affiliate clubs – down from close to 40 clubs which turned up at Staffield Golf & Country Resort last year – with 16 teams participating in the men’s division and only four clubs represented in the ladies’ category. Nonetheless, a compelling contest on the golf course ensured that event did not go down as dour affair, with Royal Pahang pair of Faizul Hafiz Zulkefli (74-76) and Shah Irwan Rusli (7480) needing a 15-foot par save on the last hole to see off a stern challenge by the Saujana Golf

WAFIYUDDIN STRIKES IN MELAKA

& Country Club’s Jeremy Chan (76-75) and Jean Baptist Chaumont (76-78). The Kuantan duo totalled 304 to emerge victorious by one stroke-in the men’s team event with Faizul also picking up the individual prize. Kinta Golf Club represented by Tun Abdul Nasir (75-79) and Megat Sulaiman Megat Othman (77-80) were six shots further back in third. In the ladies division, Penang Golf Resort’s Moon Lim (81-89) and Shirley Sim (82-84) made full use of home advantage to register an an overall score of 336, defeating the titleholders from Saujana Golf & Country Club – Stella Chau (82-88) and (95 and 88) by a whopping 17 strokes. The Royal Selangor pair of Siti Zainab Abdullah (85-93) and Ainon Mohd Noor (92-87) completed the podium, totalling 357.

final round flourish ensured that Universiti Utara Malaysia’s Mohd Wafiyuddin Abdul Manaf capped off a superb run of form by winning the Melaka Amateur Open at Ayer Keroh Country Club on November 18.

Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, who notched rounds of 73,81 and 78.

Wafiyuddin was pleased with his strong recovery after struggling to impose himself early on in the weather-disrupted championship. “I knew I had to come back The 21-year-old overcame a five-stroke strongly on the final round and I gave it my deficit with a solid closing one-under best. I was lucky that the 36-hole leader 71 to finish four strokes clear of national (Chan Tuck Soon) slipped on the final day.” Abel Tam (77-80-74) and claim his second state amateur title. Wafiyuddin had In the ladies’ division, reigning Malaysian earlier triumphed at the Faldo Series Junior Open champion Princess Superal AmBank Malaysian Championship in of Philippines totalled 225 to claim a 12mid-September. shot victory over compatriot Sarah Ababa. Local junior Ong Shi Qing took third place A further stroke adrift in third was with a 243 overall. seasoned amateur Nordin Yahya of

MY JUNIORS

Maybank’s Mohamed Adam giving a pep talk to the first batch of juniors as master coach Tony Maloney and John Eu of Global One look on

MAYBANK TO GROOM CHAMPIONS AT THE GRASSROOT LEVEL

anking giant Maybank aims to build on their sponsorship of the Malaysian Open by embarking on a unique junior golf programme, aimed at giving a chance to youngsters with no golfing background to explore and enjoy the Royal & Ancient game.

The Maybank Junior Golf - Champions Academy was officially unveiled by its chief marketing officer Mohamed Adam Wee during a press conference on November 20 at The Saujana Resort. Also present was GlobalOne chief executive John Eu and JNG Golf head of instruction Tony Maloney, who is also the master coach for the programme. The programme, which took off late last year, will provide opportunities for all juniors aged 6 to 12 years to be introduced to golf, who will be chosen through an innovative selection method. They will be trained through a combination of golf skills training and physical development over a period of three years. The fundamentals and golf-oriented exercises learnt will be a stepping stone to developing Malaysia’s future golf stars with the participants trained to not only further enhance their golf skills but also to maintain acceptable academic grades for opportunities to participate in local competitive tournaments.

While other junior golf programmes that currently exist in Malaysia are geared towards experienced junior golfers or those already familiar with the sport, the Maybank Junior Golf - Champions Academy aims to provide a fullysponsored opportunity for curious children who are keen on the chance to pick up the sport. The curriculum covers individual development going beyond golf. The areas covered include motor skills, mental skills, life skills, fundamental golf basics and on-course development. The selection process for the Maybank Junior Golf – Champions Academy will be conducted in three different regions – North, Central and South. With a maximum of 100 entries per region, only 10 juniors will be selected for further assessment. The 30 juniors from the three regions will then be shortlisted to form the top 10 list in the country. These top 10 juniors will then undergo a series of intensive training camps throughout the year, which will be held for 5D4N at the Saujana Golf & Country Club. In between the camps, the selected 10 will meet with their designated coaches at their respective hometowns and continue their practice

sessions before they are introduced to junior tournaments. While the 2012 batch is undergoing their programme, 10 new juniors will be selected in 2013. By the end of the extensive 3-year programme, a pool of 20 juniors will be fully equipped with the skills, knowledge and experiences to progress further in the sport. “Our ultimate goal is to nurture these juniors to be Malaysia’s golf champions and carry the nation’s flag in international golf tournaments. Who knows, as golf returns to the Olympics in 2016, we would be proud to see one of the Maybank Junior Golf – Champions Academy alumni representing our country one day,” said Adam. Meanwhile, Eu added that GlobalOne has designed an innovative and sustainable junior golf programme that develops an individual holistically while emphasising the importance of education at all times. He said, “The skills and knowledge that they learn and gain from this programme will enrich them as an individual for years to come. The objective is to develop well-rounded junior golfers with the discipline of committing to both education and sport (golf ).”

MY JUNIORS

FUN TAKES PRECEDENCE AT PARENT-CHILD MEET

t was the parents who were under the heat during the recent Parent-Child Golf Tournament jointly organised by Foundation for Malaysian Sporting Excellence (SportExcel) and Carlsberg Malaysia at Monterez Golf & Country Club on November 4. The unique tournament saw 54 junior golfers pair up with their parent or family elder in a friendly contest held in conjunction with World Children's Day. They were much laughs and camaraderie unlike the usually competitive SportExcel events with the seniors being on the receiving end of criticism and brickbats from the juniors for a change. And it was perhaps fitting that the buoyant pair of Francis Yee (52) and Nick Yee (40) emerged as the winners with a combined score of 92 points, edging another dad-and-son combination of Vincent Lim (34) and Marcus Lim (46) with a comfortable 12 points advantage. The partnership of Lam Hoi Khong (24) and Joshua Lam (53) came in third with 77 points. Prizes were also given out in novelty contests such as nearest to the pin, nearest to the line and longest drive while there were gifts for the oldest pair, youngest pair, best dressed

Junior golfers doing the ‘Gangnam’ dance

The top three pairs with SportExcel’s Tunku Tan Sri Imran and Soren Ravn of Carlsberg.

pair, best mother-and-son pair, best fatherdaughter pair as well as a consolatory wooden spoon prize.

nature. Parents have sacrificed tremendously in providing the best resources for their children to fulfil their potential.

SportExcel chairman Tunku Tan Sri Imran Tuanku Ja’afar said that the tournament was unequivocal success, giving a perfect opportunity for parents to bond with their children.

"We have great respect in recognising their unwavering commitment. It is important that the youngsters also show their appreciation to their parents for supporting them in pursuing their dreams to do well. It will be great for them to offer their parents with rewarding returns on their parents’ investment with good results,” he added.

“It was definitely a wonderful experience for the children to be teamed up with their parents in an unique competition of this

Carlsberg Malaysia managing director Soren Ravn, who himself turned up with his two children, said that the event proved to be a memorable experience and his commitment that the brewers will continue their longstanding support for the foundation.

MY JUNIORS

FOUNDATION RECOGNISES JUNIOR GOLFERS’ ACHIEVEMENT

the youngest participant at the CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters. Ten Malaysian juniors were also among the recipients of the certificates of achievement, including Sarfina Seretharan, Loy Hee Ying, Natasha Andrea Oon, Albright Chong, Ervin Chang and Paul San while Mohd Naqiuddin Mohd Fuad and Khavish Varman Varadan were named the programme’s most improved players. Commenting on the CIMB Junior Golf Development Programme, CIMB Foundation chief executive Raja Noorma Raja Othman said, “When we assumed the title sponsorship of the CIMB Classic in 2010, we launched the CIMB Junior Golf Development Programme to inspire a generation of juniors to pursue their dreams of playing professional golf at the highest levels.”

wenty-three top junior golfers from across the ASEAN region were honoured at the CIMB Junior Golf Development Programme Player Recognition Ceremony, held in conjunction with the CIMB Classic which took place at the Mines Resort & Golf Club last month

CIMB Group chief executive Dato’ Sri Nazir Razak presented certificates of achievement to the top juniors for 2012 in the CIMB Junior

Golf Development Programme. The juniors were honoured for their numerous successes in local, regional and international tournaments. Among the recipients were Thais Puwit Anupansuebsai, who won the World Masters of Junior Golf Tournament (Boys 11 to 12) and Benyapa Niphatsophon, winner of the Callaway Junior World Golf Championship 2012 (Girls 15 to 17) years category as well as Jordan Surya Irawan from Indonesia, who was

“Judging from the quality of achievements that have been accomplished by these junior golfers today, I firmly believe that we are moving rapidly towards seeing these juniors becoming golf’s top professionals,” she added. In line with the CIMB Junior Golf Development Programme’s emphasis on holistic development of its golfers, CIMB Foundation also gave out awards for academic achievement, best charity idea and best essay.

CIMB FOUNDATION - SPORTEXCEL MALAYSIAN JUNIOR PREMIER-ELITE GOLF CIRCUIT - 3RD LEG (MONTEREZ GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB OCTOBER 19 - 21) Boys’ Under-20 1st Muhammad Asyraf Rosli 148 (67-81) 2nd Lee Jeong Gin 155 (77-78) 3rd Muhammad Asyraf Azman 161 (79-82) 4th Sheikh Sulaiman 171 (88-83) Boys’ Under-15 1st Aaerishna Shahsthy 150 (76-74) 2nd Alvin Hiew 150 (73-77) 3rd Kishaan Lingam 153 (78-75) 4th Lucas Yee 155 (78-77)

Girls’ Under-20 1st Asha Lakshme Balakrishnan 153 (77-76) 2nd Siti Khadijah 197 (96-101)

Girls’ Under-12 1st Winnie Ng 156 (77-79) 2nd Natasha Andrea Oon 163 (76-87) 3rd Nurdiyana Aqilah 176 (91-85) 4th Geraldina Wong 187 (89-89)

Boys’ Under-12 1st Yong Fatt Hoe 150 (74-76) 2nd Khavish Varman Varadan 152 (77-75) 3rd Daeng Abdul Rahman 154 (72-82) 4th Mohd Afif 155 (76-79)

Girls’ Under-15 1st Kelie Kan 150 (77-73) 2nd Ong Shi Qing 153 (81-72) 3rd Siti Zulaikhaa Shaari 158 (76-82) 4th Chong Yong 159 (78-81)

Mixed Under-9 1st Feirish Nor Feizal Nor 163 (83-80) 2nd Jeneath Wong 167 (89-78) 3rd Isaac To 171 (84-87) 4th Foo Tee Jui 179 (87-92)

MY JUNIORS

SPORTEXCEL NATIONAL JUNIOR GOLF CIRCUIT 5TH LEG (CLEARWATER SANCTUARY GOLF RESORT NOVEMBER 10-12) Boys’ Under-20 1st Paul San Weng Yau 228 (77-75-76) 2nd Kim Myong Kon 239 (83-79-77) 3rd Mohd Asyraf Hj Rosli 239 (75-79-85) Boys’ Under-15 1st Lucas Yee 232 (78-81-73) 2nd Sazanur Iman Salehin 233 (81-78-74) 3rd Mior Asyraf Hafiq Zulkifli 240 (84-77-79)

Girls’ Under-20 1st Asha Lakshme Balakrishnan 241 (85-82-74) 2nd Celine Lim Shwu Ling 248 (84-84-80) 3rd Ho Cai Yan 267 (89-91-87)

Girls’ Under-12 1st Natasha Andrea Oon 167 (84-83) 2nd Winnie Ng Yu Xuan 169 (87-82) 3rd Geraldine Wong 180 (91-89)

Boys’ Under-12 1st Bryan Teoh Wiyang 204 (68-69-67) 2nd Daeng Abdul Rahman 215 (81-65-69) 3rd Muhd Afif Mohd Fathi 230 (76-76-78)

Girls’ Under-15 1st Siti Zulaikhaa Shaari 247 (89-82-76) 2nd Raeysha Surendran 254 (84-88-82) 3rd Warda Amira 260 (91-86-83)

Mixed Under-9 1st Jeneath Wong 197 2nd Feirish Nor Feizal Nor 198 3rd Foo Tei Jui 206

SPORTEXCEL NATIONAL JUNIOR GOLF CIRCUIT 6TH LEG (BUKIT JAWI GOLF RESORT NOVEMBER 10-12) Boys’ Under-20 1st Muhammad Asyraf Rosli 229 (77-71-81) 2nd Muhammad Fakhrul Akmal Nor Ezamdi 234 (83-76-75) 3rd Chan Kai Vern 239 (82-77-80) 4th Park Jong Min 240 (79-77-84) Boys’ Under-15 1st Muhammad Zafran Abdullah 239 (80-79-80) 2nd Aaron Cheong 240 (81-78-81) 3rd Seo Hyuck Beom 240 (77-82-81) 4th Lucas Yee 243 (78-88-77)

Girls’ Under 20 1st Siti Balqis Lokman 280 (89-98-93) 2nd Anastasia Van Dort 316 (104-108-104) 3rd Amira Mohd Shahzan 340 (115-112-113) 4th Nur Sabrina Atiqah Mohd Shahril 378 (125-134-119)

Girls’ Under-12 1st Winnie Ng Yu Xuan 251 (86-84-81) 2nd Geraldine Wong 257 (89-83-85) 3rd Ally Yee 288 (95-96-97) 4th Amalina Mohd Shahzan 299 (106-98-95)

Boys’ Under-12 1st Bryan Teoh Wiyang 210 (70-72-68) 2nd Muhammad Afif Mohd Fathi 233 (78-72-83) 3rd Adam Arif Mazri 241 (78-87-76) 4th Lim Beng Keat 242 (81-83-78)

Girls’ Under-15 1st Chong Yee Mun 265 (89-87-89) 2nd Nasrin Nazifa Haris Bashah 285 (97-99-89) 3rd Samantha Van Dort 325 (117-99-109) 4th Norshahira Alisa Che Omar 352 (112-124-116)

Mixed Under-9 1st Feirish Nor Feizal Nor 115 (38-39-38) 2nd Jeneath Wong 119 (41-40-38) 3rd Foo Tei Jui 125 (37-47-41) 4th Sarah Mazri 131 (42-47-42)

INDUSTRY TALK

HUA HIN ROUTE A PLUS POINT FOR BERJAYA AIR “Presently, golfers have to suffer a time wasting three-hour ride from Bangkok but with the introduction of our direct service, golfers can now enjoy an additional six hours on the course. “Over and above sea lovers and golfers, we hope to target the leisure travellers who will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Hua Hin, which is famed for being the summer retreat for the Thai royal family,” he added. TAT’s director for Malaysia and Brunei Wiboon Nimitrwanich shared that Hua Hin will enthrall regulars who are seeking for a more luxurious Thai experience. “With our collaboration with Berjaya Air, we’re now encouraging frequent travellers that are looking beyond the usual favourites spots such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Chiangmai to discover Hua Hin and its neighbouring city Cha-Am.”

erjaya Air began its thrice weekly flights from Subang to Hua Hin on Nov 18, marking its return to the Thai market after dropping its Koh Samui route earlier in the year The airline has partnered with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to become the first foreign airline to fly into the royal town southeast off Bangkok, increasing its number of destinations to six. The flights, aimed at golfers and leisure travellers, will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. “Hua Hin has the added advantage of having three world-class golf courses – Black Mountain Golf Club, Banyan Golf Club & Resorts and Springfield Royal Golf Club.

Its Hua Hin service will utilise its 72-seater ATR72-500 aircrafts with the all-inclusive promotion rates from as low as RM199 one-way, inclusive of baggage allowance of 15kg for normal travellers and an additional 10kg for golfers.

ONE-OF-A-KIND GOLF GALLERY OPENS IN MELAKA

he Melaka Golf Gallery which was officially unveiled on November 11 is set to become the state’s newest golf tourism offering © Bernama Images

“Berjaya Air operates in a niche market of sun, sea and sand to destinations such as Tioman, Langkawi, Pangkor and Redang and spreading our wings to Hua Hin was very much a natural decision as Hua Hin has similar marketing potential to the rest of our current destinations,” said Berjaya Air director Datuk Azlan Meah during the press launch on October 30.

Berjaya Air currently flies from Subang to Tioman, Redang, Pangkor, Langkawi and Kota Bharu as well as from Singapore to Tioman and Redang. It expects to begin flights to Penang in due course.

The two-storey gallery, housed in a former fire station at Jalan Bandar Kaba in Bandar Hilir boasts over 200 artifacts including golf equipment and accessories, photos as well as trophies from various golf tournaments held in the state and in Malaysia - majority of which are the personal collections of the Governor of Melaka Tun Khalil Yaacob. Speaking during the launch, Melaka chief minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam expressed his hope that the gallery will further dispel the notion that golf is an elitist sport. “It is our hope that with this gallery, visitors especially locals can learn about the historical development of golf, its evolution over the years and how the game has grown here in Malaysia to become a lucrative industry of its own.” Tun Khalil, who officiated the opening

ceremony of the gallery, later participated in the Melaka 750 years Golf Tournament, which saw over 906 participants teeing off in the state’s four golf layouts, namely A’Famosa Golf Resort, Ayer Keroh Country Club, Orna Golf & Country Club as well as Tiara Golf & Country Club.

As part of the its efforts to boost the state’s golf tourism industry, the state government will host the International World HeritageMalacca-Europe Trophy next February 14-17 at Ayer Keroh Country Club, A’Famosa Golf Resort and Tiara Golf & Country Club.

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AROUND THE GLOBE

POULTS VAULTS TO HSBC VICTORY

an Poulter claimed a two-shot victory at the US$7 million WGC-HSBC Champions after overcoming an overnight four-shot deficit with a second successive seven-under 65 on November 4.

South African star Ernie Els and the American trio of Phil Mickelson, Jason Dufner and Scott Piercy all shared second place in Asia’s richest tournament and only World Golf Championships event in the region.

The flamboyant Englishman, Europe’s talisman in the memorable Ryder Cup victory last month when he won all four of his matches, picked up his second World Golf Championship title at the Mission Hills Dongguan.

“It’s been an amazing five or six weeks with the Ryder Cup and then coming here in good spirits,” said Poulter, whose triumph was his first of the season.

He carded eight birdies to overhaul a faltering Lee Westwood and Louis Oosthuizen, the joint third round leaders, before dropping a shot on the penultimate hole for a four-day total of 21-under-par 267.

“As well as I’ve played this year, it would have been a disappointment personally to have gone that year without winning, and for me and for how I played this year, it’s obviously a great and fantastic feeling especially after the Ryder Cup to get my hands back on a great trophy like this.”

Women’s Open champion Na Yeon Choi won the CME THIRDTIME LUCKY NA-YEON ENDS U.S.Titleholders on November 18 to turn a great season into her best one yet. FOR THAWORN SEASON ON A Locked in a battle with LPGA Tour rookie of the year So Yeon HIGH Ryu along the back nine of the TwinEagles Club, Choi pulled away with a birdie on the 16th to close with a two-under 70 to clinch a two-shot victory at the LPGA season finale.

hai veteran Thaworn Wiratchant sensationally won his third Asian Tour title this season at the Hero Indian Open by defeating Richie Ramsay of Scotland on the first play-off hole on October 21. Thaworn, who was playing one flight in front of Ramsay, birdied the last hole in regulation play when his seven iron approach shot landed about one feet from the hole as he closed with five-under-par 66 at the approximately US$1.25 million Asian Tour event. Third round leader Ramsay needed a par putt on the last to win but made a threeputt bogey for a 68 as the duo returned to the par-four closing hole at the Karnataka Golf Association course. The Scotman’s bad stroke of luck continued in the playoff as he blasted his tee shot into a watery creek. His third shot landed in the back of the green and he chipped 10 feet past the hole and two-putted for a double bogey. Thaworn, who won the championship in 2005, had the luxury of a two-putt bogey to win and was stunned by his victory. “To be honest, I didn’t expect to win with the way I was driving the ball this week. It means a lot that I’ve won a second Hero Indian Open title,” said Thaworn, who totalled 14-under-par 270 and won US$198,125.

Choi’s second victory of the year earned a paycheque of U$500,000 at the Titleholders, pushing her season earnings to a career-best US$1.9 million. “I’m really happy with how I played this season,” said Choi. “I won my first major, and even this tournament is very big for me. I think I can have even bigger expectations now, and think I deserve it.”

MAIDEN WIN FOR ANNOP IN MAKASSAR

hailand’s Annop Tangkamolprasert broke out of his brother shadow by claiming fine victory in the interrupted Gowa Classic November 18.

Pavit’s a stormo n

The promising young golfer registered his first win since turning professional in 2007 after shooting a three-under-par 69 to triumph by three shots over Singaporean rookie Choo Tze Huang. In a dramatic finish at Padivalley Golf Club, a lightning and heavy rain storm hit just as the final group, consisting of Annop, Choo and Thailand’s Pravee Visalkit walked off the 17th green.

Brittany Lincicome also closed with 70 to finish alone in third, three shots further back

Annop led by three from Choo at that stage but had to endure a two hours and 15 minutes wait before sealing the win with a par for a four-round total of nine-under-par 279. “I was a bit worried because I thought the delay would stop my flow,” said Annop. “I made a par though so it went to plan. I didn’t really expect anything this week so I am really happy. It will be a big confidence boost.”

AROUND THE GLOBE

HONG KONG HAT-TRICK FOR JIMENEZ

paniard Miguel Angel Jimenez achieved his treble of victories at the UBS Hong Kong Open when he signed off with a flawless five-under-par 65 to lift the title for the third time on November 18. Fredrik Andersson Hed of Sweden charged back into contention with a masterclass of his own but was denied his second career win by the slimmest of margins after he closed with a 64 to finish one back of Jimenez who compiled a four-day total of 15-under-par 265. Australia’s Marcus Fraser moved atop the Asian Tour Order of Merit after enjoying a third place finish with his closing 64 while Italy’s Matteo Manassero did not surmount the expected challenge and ended his campaign in tiedfourth alongside Ireland’s Peter Lawrie and Scotland’s Stephen Gallacher on 269 at the Hong Kong Golf Club. Like the cigar and vintage Rioja he enjoys, Jimenez continues to ooze class with age as his UBS Hong Kong Open win represents his 12th career victory since turning 40. “I’ve my own style, I like to have my wine. I like to have my cigar, and this week, every afternoon when we finish, I’ve a glass of wine before I go home and it helps,” said Jimenez, who at five weeks short of his 49th birthday is the oldest winner on the European Tour. “This is not the end of my career. I’m still playing well and still winning tournaments. The most important thing, I say I do what I like to do in my life, and golf has given me all these pleasures,” added the veteran, who has become a regular fixture in Fanling since winning in 2004 before adding another crown in 2007.

LAKE MALAREN HIGH FOR HANSON

yder Cupper Peter Hanson held off a magnificent late charge from Rory McIlroy to claim the biggest win of his career at the BMW Masters after a dramatic final day at Lake Malaren Golf Club on October 28.

The Swede totalled 21-under-par 267 to beat the world number one by a single shot after both hit closing rounds of 67 at the US$7 million limited-field event, which was making its debut on the European Tour. Luke Donald and Ian Poulter finished third and fourth respectively. “It was a little bit tense,” said Hanson. “Rory made a tremendous effort with his eagle on 15th and birdie on 16th, so it put quite a bit of pressure on me. I was trying to play it a little bit safe but against the world number one you still have to hit the shots. “This is by far my biggest win in my career; I think all of the work I have put in to try to be ready for The Ryder Cup - that’s really what paid off both in Holland and even now a couple of weeks later.”

VAN PELT SHINES IN PERTH

o van Pelt clinched his first victory on the European Tour with a twoshot triumph at the ISPS HANDA Perth International.

He finished on 16-under 272 after carding a 68 to beat compatriot Jason Dufner by two shots, with first-round leader Alejandro Canizares three strokes further back in third. Van Pelt came into the final day on October 21 with a one-stroke lead and picked up a shot on the first on Sunday to set the tone for his round. He demonstrated nerves of steel around the green and rolled in from 15 feet at the seventh to turn in 32 before picking up his fourth and fifth birdies of the day immediately afterwards. A two-putt at the 15th gave Dufner hopes of catching up but Van Pelt birdied the next to seal the deal as Dufner dropped a shot. “Jason and I had a great battle and played well. It definitely got tight there at the end but luckily for me I came out on top,’” said Van Peltt. “Lake Karrinyup was a great test of golf all week. It’s been a battle; the wind blew, the greens were firm and fast, and it was just a joy to play all week.”

AROUND THE GLOBE

WINNING FEELING FOR KERR, LEWIS SEALS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

ristie Kerr rallied to win the Lorena Ochoa Invitational as Stacy Lewis locked up the LPGA Player of the Year honor with a tied fourth finish. Kerr mixed six birdies and three bogeys at the Guadalajara Country Club on November 11 to hold off fellow American Angela Stanford and overnight leader Inbee Park to win by one stroke. Kerr’s 69 gave her a four-round total of 16-under 272 while Stanford carded a 68 and

South Korean Park had a 72 for a 273 aggregate. Kerr claimed her 15th LPGA title and her first since she won the LPGA Championship in June 2010. “It feels amazing,” said Kerr, who admitted to late-round nerves. “You know, coming in those last couple of holes it didn’t feel like I had won before. I kind of just squeaked in. I won by a shot, that’s all that it takes, I’ve lost plenty of tournaments by a shot, but winning by a shot feels a lot better.” World number two Lewis, who was coming off her tour-leading fourth victory of the year at the Mizuno Classic in Japan, closed with a 68 for 276, tied with Taiwan’s Candie Kung (68).

The finish makes Lewis the first US golfer to win the points-based Player of the Year award since Beth Daniel in 1994. “It’s just crazy to even think of. I mean it’s an honor to win the award, and I think this will spur on with the rest of the Americans to get out and keep playing well because Solheim Cup is coming up.”

FOURTH ALTERNATE HARRINGTON WINS GRAND SLAM “You’ve got to give yourself the chance - it’s Padraig Harrington recorded his first victory in two years when he stormed to victory in the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda on October 24.

a fantastic tournament and even if I finished fourth I’d be quite confident that I made the right decision.

Padraig Harrington held off a final-day charge from Webb Simpson with three straight birdies from the 11th and despite a bogey on the last, was still able to take the £375,000 prize at Port Royal.

“It is a bonus to come and win, no doubt about it, and it was unfinished business for me having lost in two play-offs,” said Harrington, who was a late replacement for Open winner Ernie Els, who withdrew from the event with an ankle injury.

ARMY RECRUIT DAE-SUB MARCHES TO THIRD KOREAN OPEN WIN Two-time winner Kim Dae-sub, only recently discharged from 20 months of military service, underscored his return to competitive golf with a brilliant two-stroke victory on October 21 in OneAsia’s Kolon Korea Open. Dae-sub fired a final round two-under-par 69 for a five-under tournament total of 279 around the tough Woo Jeong Hills Country Club and a winner’s cheque of around US$270,000. Co-overnight leader Kim Dae-hyun (71) birdied the last to grab sole second place, while Kang Kyung-nam, who led for two rounds before a 77 in the third, fought back with a 68 for a share of third with Major winner Y.E. Yang (67). The turning point in the final round came on the second hole when Dae-sub drained an 18 footer for birdie and he never looked back as playing partner Dae-hyun three-putted for bogey. Dae-sub burst onto the scene as a 16-year-old schoolboy amateur in

1998 when he beat the country’s best professionals to lift his first Korea Open title before repeating the feat in 2001. He never quite fulfilled his potential after joining the paid ranks and kept deferring the national service that all Korean men must do in a bid to find form before conscripting in 2010. “I always dreamed I would win the Korea Open as a professional, but I didn’t think it would happen this year,” said Kim, who was discharged two months ago from his army desk job. “This is the happiest day of my life.”

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COVERING CARLSBAD BY SCOTT KRAMER

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.

NIKE HITTING ALL CYLINDERS

The new VR-S Covert driver

ome friends and I got to talking about Nike Golf plays well again, people will claim that McIlory can the other day, and where the brand’s strengths play anything and be successful. lie. Shoes? Check. Apparel? Definitely. Golf balls. Just okay. Clubs? My short foresight is one of the many reasons I am not running Nike Golf, but merely writing about the Nah. What’s particularly surprising about this is how brand. I am sure Nike is salivating over being able to a behemoth like Nike, which has had Tiger Woods on claim that it houses the world’s best golfers who all its Tour endorsement staff for years, has never made play its equipment, etc. even a decent lasting impact in the club market. That’s not to say the company hasn’t had some good clubs All that said, Nike’s new gear for next year is off to available in golf shops. It has. an impressive start. The new 460cc VR_S Covert driver features adjustable loft, like several other Ironically, a brand which in golf is best identifiable new drivers on the market in 2013. This one you can with newcomers and less-capable players, has adjust from 8.5° to 12.5°, just by quickly and easily probably had its best clubs as better player models. rotating the shaft orientation. In addition, you can Nike’s forged irons in past years have been terrific. Oh independently adjust the face angle. sure, the Slingshot irons and Sasquatch drivers a few years ago were nice, too. However, no Nike clubs have This means that you buy one driver for a very ever become a major force that turned the collective reasonable US$299 (RM1,380/SGD650) and heads of its competitors. essentially have 15 different drivers in one club. It truly takes adjustability to another hemisphere. Now the brand is showing it really wants to make a It also comes solely in a glossy cherry red, which splash in golf. Rumour has it (and that’s a nice way of falls into another 2013 trend of colourful driver saying) Fox Sports has already reported this, but Nike clubheads. In addition, there is a white Swoosh on hasn’t, that Nike has inked PGA Tour superstar Rory the crown, located next to the hosel. McIlroy to a $200 million-plus endorsement contract. The company claims it is the first cavity-back driver, To boot, the company has also been rumoured to ink because of its shaping. “With the VR_S Covert, we up-and-comers Hunter Mahan, Nick Watney and Kyle have created a game changing piece of technology Stanley. Fox goes as far as to report that a TV ad has that has already begun a growing industry buzz,” already been filmed featuring Woods, McIlroy, Stanley says Rob Arluna, Nike Golf’s global golf club business and Watney, for the company’s new VR_S Covert driver director. “It is visually exciting, it feels and sounds (more on that in a moment). amazing and, most importantly, it creates powerful results with a high degree of control. Golfers and At the end of October, Titleist released McIlroy from our athletes are going to have a lot of fun with this his multi-year endorsement contract. Some media driver.” suspect that where he ends up, will probably not be officially announced until the last day of the year. A smaller 430cc Tour version will also be offered One thing McIlroy might want to write into his clause, for US$399 (RM1,780/SGD800). Both drivers will be wherever he goes – is to allow him to continue playing available worldwide in mid-February. Titleist’s new 913 driver that he has been using with amazing success this year. Nevertheless, you can The company also has several new ball models bet the bank that if Nike is indeed his new sponsor, coming in 2013, and recently announced new the company will insist he plays all Nike equipment, Method Core Weighted putters. However, if the including the ball. rumours of McIlroy and company coming over to bolster the Tour staff are true, you can bet that I think Nike can only lose here. That is, if McIlroy has a there will be more major product announcements bad year in 2013, many onlookers will surely zero in on coming sooner rather than later. his new Nike equipment as the culprit. Moreover, if he

RARE BIRDIE

Epic or farce?

he media considers the month of August as the silly season. Parliament is in recess hence editors in the newsroom scratch around for scoops to fill in their newspapers and TV bulletins. Daft stories, which would otherwise never see the light of day, get their airtime or prime space in the newspapers. In golf, we have a silly season of our own, which we are in right now. All four majors are gone, and the ludicrous and impossible to understand FedEx Playoffs have taken place in America. European golf is heading for its big finale, while the DP World Tour Championship is happening in Dubai. This is where we will see if Rory McIlroy can emulate Luke Donald’s last season by topping the money list on both sides of the Atlantic. However, in addition to the last few European tournaments, we also get a bunvch of meaningless but lucrative ‘competitions’, which Ernie Els describes as Wheelbarrow Events, because that is what you need to take home the cash if you win one. They do not count towards official earnings, have no world ranking points attached and mean absolutely nothing to anyone but the participants. Watching them, you have to wonder why it is that obscenely wealthy people like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy fly halfway round the world to earn more money, which they cannot possibly need. Tiger, remember, is the first golfer to ever make $100 million in official prize money, and the first sportsman to pass the £1 billion mark in career earnings. Rory, at the age of 23, already has more money than can be spent in several lifetimes. Yet both agreed to take part in an 18-hole medal match play competition in China. It was simply a marketing strategy for a multi-million pound housing project, which is being built around the golf course over where they were competing in. The project is situated in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan province. The much talked about ‘Duel at Jinsha Lake’ was a farce, featuring models posing on every tee, fireworks, helicopters parked next to putting greens and a luxury yacht sailing across a lake. The biggest giveaway to the competition’s irrelevance was that both golfers were wearing microphones for this made-for-TV event – something that professional golfers will never do in a serious event. McIlroy himself expressing the insignificance of the day with the words, ‘I treat these exhibition matches as a bit of fun,’ and he presumably had more fun later, counting the reported $1 million, he received for his participation. Tiger, on the other hand got an estimated $2 million.

Martin

The question these astronomical figures spark is ‘why sell yourself for money when you are already richer than Croesus?’ You can only live in one house, drive one car and eat one meal at a time. The next question, ‘How much is enough?’ Seriously, when do extremely rich people stop trying to acquire even more money than they already have? There is however, a more serious side to the question and it concerns the fact that neither golfer stayed on in China to take part in the HSBC World Championship at Mission Hills, won so superbly by Ian Poulter. WGC events are supposed to be, along with the Players Championship in America, only slightly below the majors in terms of their importance where world ranking points and the quality of the field are concerned.

Vousden

experienced golf writer and editor, equally at home in print publications or online content. A former editor of Today’s Golfer, he now freelances from Scotland, near Carnoustie. His Ryder Cup book With Friends Like These, was published in 2006.

However, that quality was severely diminished by the absence of the world ranked numbers one and two players. McIlroy decided instead to fly to Bulgaria to watch his squeeze, Caroline Wozniacki, compete in a tennis tournament (she lost in the final, beaten 6-2, 6-1 by Nadia Petrova), while Tiger would only say that he was ‘doing corporate stuff.’ It prompted Giles Morgan, the group head of sponsorship for HSBC, which is one of golf’s biggest corporate backers, to express ‘disappointment’ at the no-show of the world’s top-two golfers. He went on to say, ‘I feel strongly that the top players should be here. I believe that golfers have a responsibility to their sponsors. Without the sponsors, there would not be professional golf. I speak on behalf of the industry.’ This should not be taken as a petulant outburst from a disappointed tournament organiser. It is a shot across the bows of Woods, McIlroy and the rest, reminding them that they have no absolute right to expect big-money sponsors, to be treated so casually, especially in a world savaged by an economic downturn. If they have not picked out the sub-text of what Mr Morgan has to say, let us clarify it now. By all means take part in meaningless, unimportant exhibitions simply to inflate your already vast bank balance, but if you do so at the expense of legitimate, important tournaments, those tournaments may not be around next year or the year after. * Croesus was the King of Lydia between 560 and 547 BC and was renowned for his wealth. You are welcome.

Silly Season

UNCHARTED COURSE WITH NORMAS YAKIN

Normas

Yakin

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

RAIN, RAIN GO AWAY…

“Rain, rain go away; and come again another day” is part of the lyrics of a song I sung a long, long time ago. A nursery rhyme, I think it was; for children to sing at playgrounds or their nurseries or Tadikasperhaps for older children to reminisce when rain threatens to stop their football or outdoor games. Or perhaps for even (very) old children to sing inbetween sobs when rain looms and they are forced to stop playing and leave the golf course despite their optimism that it’s just a little rain and/or will stop soon. Rain is one of the toughest things that a golf course superintendent can face. Among others, rain can cause: interrupted work, happy workers (for the ‘wrong’ reasons), applied chemicals wasted, fertilizers washed onto the lower areas, rubbish ‘collected’ in drains or sumps, damaged bunkers, topdressing sand sticking to mowers, fairways too soggy to mow and grass clippings piling up in rows on the rough. On top of all that and more, considerate golfers sticking to buggy paths while not damaging the turf with their tyre tracks (what Ed? That is not a problem? I know, but I realized that it’s mostly golfers that read this magazine and I can’t be dissing them, can I?)

sign on the fairway, no sir/ma’am; his standard of marking soggy areas is by marking the ground with white paint. If you are thinking, “That’s exactly what my superintendent does too!” well, I bet your superintendent is using those water-based marking paint that comes with a tool that allows him to walk while marking. Whereas to ensure the marks lasts longer, cut costs and give me back-pain, we use oil-based paint – it retails for half the price of waterbased paint and you can buy them at any DIY or even motorbike shops. I had to bend down while marking. No, it does not kill grass; they just turn brown for a while but I do not use them on greens. So 18 years ago every Friday during the rainy season (which was more defined back then), you would find a young and good-looking assistant superintendent bending down on about 80% of the fairways marking soggy areas with white paint. Yeah, it was that bad: 80%. No kidding. I mean, can you imagine, because I am limited to mark only the soggy areas and doing it while bending down; I sometimes could not find where I began my marking! GURs had to be a closed loop you see.

There was one time when I was still an assistant superintendent and I was working in a golf course that had one foot of sand capping underneath the fairway. In theory, there should not be soggy fairway issues but there were some holes that I would call a ‘Par-2’! It was so wet and soggy that the only places playable were the tee and green.

I remember the second year it was so bad that we gave up marking the soggy areas and ended up just marking ‘drop zone’ signs on the fairway of a couple of holes. Visualise this; you go on the tee, hit a ball to the fairway, go to the fairway, pick your ball (if you can find it), put it on the drop zone nearest to where you are, and then hit again.

The sub-soil drains were located 30 meters apart on the fairways and these were just not draining the water fast enough. There was just too much rain, the fairway reached its ‘field capacity’ very quickly and before this water could be drained away, rain in the following days would bring in more water. If you want to read more about drainage, look for my articles in the old issues of The Clubhouse at your club or on www.theclubhouse.com.my and start subscribing so that you do not miss my future articles!

In the next two years, we added in almost 60 kilometres of sub-soil drainage and solved the problem at that golf course. That and the frequent dethatching/slicing on fairways made the drainage so good that during an episode of the La Nina weather pattern, I overheard a remark that Glenmarie was the only playable course in the country.

The then superintendent, Martin Greenwood’s standard operating procedure was to mark ‘GUR’ or ‘ground under repair’ on all soggy areas every Friday. Moreover, his standard is not about sticking in a GUR

Nowadays I am not young - though still good-looking and am thankful I do not have to be doing those bits again. Not that I see any clubs practicing the same GUR marking policy anyway. As a consultant, I do not make club policies, though I do give recommendations on how to deal with the rain. And no, I don’t sing that song anymore.

GOLF DOWN UNDER

Richard Fellner is the Group Editor of Inside Golf Magazine – Australia’s most regularly read golf publication. Hailing from the United States but now a The pioneer committee of the Australian Golf Industry Council

s Australia heads into the peak of the summer golf season, there are signs that the country’s golf industry is “bucking the downturn” and may be finally enjoying a bit of a rebound over last year. A report released last month by the Australian Golf Industry Council (AGIC) has indicated strong growth in competition golf, with 12.085 million rounds played since the same time last year, which marks a 3.5% increase over the previous 12 months. Figures from the past three years also suggest total rounds played over the summer period have grown by 5%.

proud resident of Melbourne, The report, available on www.agic.org.au, was based on data collected from 1800 clubs via the GolfLink (handicapping) system. It reported a number of interesting findings: specifically, it found that total rounds played in formal club competitions over the 2009-10 financial years averaged over one million rounds per month. Male competitive play increased almost 4 per cent with female competitive play increasing 2 per cent. In addition, single handicap rounds accounted for approximately 50% of all rounds played throughout Australia.

These numbers are very encouraging for club golfers, tour players and the Aussie golf industry in general, as it shows that golf participation continues to grow, despite the fact that parts of Australia have seen some of the wettest/worst winters in years. Indeed, nearly every part of the industry has been struggling over the past few years, from manufacturers to retailers to the local proshop. Hence any positive movement will certainly be welcomed.

It also showed that the wet weather had a major impact on the industry, dragging the overall numbers down a bit. National rounds played in March fell by 9% over the prior year as New South Wales (rounds down by 18%) experienced its second wettest month of March on record. Parts of Victoria (where rounds were down by 8%) also experienced their highest levels of recorded rainfall. Similarly, national rounds in February fell by 3% as NSW (rounds down by 15%) recorded rainfall almost double its monthly average.

“What we are seeing is rounds growth being driven off, increasing average frequency in the metropolitan areas and in some regions more favourable weather outcomes than in prior years,” said Golf Australia chief executive and AGIC chairman Stephen Pitt, adding, “As the tournament season is about to begin, this outcome is also very pleasing and indicates that increased exposure does appear to impact golf demand.”

The positive growth in rounds played mirror those from America, according to statistics recently issued by the PGA of America which shows that rounds played are up 10.6 percent for the year, and days open are up 10.9 percent. Taking into consideration that America has finished their summer season, the numbers we see in Australia may pick up even more should they follow the trend in the US (and should our weather stay warm and pleasant!).

The author of the report, Jeff Blunden, one of Australia’s leading providers of independent golf industry advice, indicated that the industry needs to perhaps focus less on driving club membership growth and instead drive harder on getting current golfers onto the course more often.

The AGIC was established in late 2006 to provide a forum to help unite the industry on industry-wide initiatives. It operates as partnership between the key industry administrations and membership organisations, including the Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association (AGCSA), Australian Ladies Professional Golf (ALPG), Australian Sporting Goods Association (representing golf equipment suppliers & manufacturers), ASGA, Golf Australia (GA), Golf Management Australia (GMA), PGA of Australia (PGA), Society of Australian Golf Course Architects (SAGCA), and golf and real estate development. Individual experts from the industry have also been invited to participate in the activities of the AGIC.

“Let’s hope that off the back of this report there is a greater appreciation of the importance of playing frequency,” Blunden says. “Membership numbers, whilst the driver to rounds played, are only part of golf’s outcome. At the coalface, it is all about rounds played. In lieu of membership growth, getting existing golfers to play more golf is one way we can drive improving industry health.”

Fellner is a true golf tragic having played the game for over 35 years but never getting any better at it.

FINALLY! Aussie golfers are playing more

BUILDING COURSES WITH JASON WINTER

Having lived for over 18 years in Malaysia, Jason Winter considers himself very much at home here as he does in his native majored

Tasmania. in

Having

Environmental

Design, the single-handicapper got his big break in golf course design when he joined E&G Parlsow and Associates in 1993, where he is a partner here. When he is not tackling quicksand and

the occasional wild animal in the pursuit of the perfect golf tract, he prefers the rough-andtumble of Aussie Rules footy.

Final leveling of sand before grassing

Tee base with subsoil trenching

o matter how good a drive you hit, or how good the approach shot is, if you miss the putt, that is what usually stands out in a golfer’s memory of the hole. So if you miss the putt because the green was in bad condition, your lasting impression of the game and the course is likely be tainted, more than a few harsh words muttered, and a few burning ears in the maintenance department!

found on the site, which is perfectly ok on the seaside links areas, perhaps with some additions of organics and/or sand. These greens are cheap to build, and certainly make financial sense in climates where play might be only for 3 months of the year, but suffer from compaction and poor drainage. These factors make maintenance quite difficult, especially in extreme climates, and when golfer traffic is high.

The greens are the last area of each hole to be played, and as all of us should know by now, where more than 60% of the game is played. So, out of the 150 acres or so on the course, it is the 2-3 acres of putting greens that invites the most scrutiny and discussion back in the clubhouse. It is little wonder then that large proportions of budgets for construction and ongoing maintenance, including fertilisers, chemicals and machinery are devoted to getting the greens right.

The United States Golf Association (USGA) developed USGA Greens from research in the 1960’s. They devised a layered method of green construction utilising surface tension to ensure that water was always available to the grass roots at just the right depth. In their system, 300mm of approved root zone sand is placed carefully over 100mm of approved gravel, which has been placed evenly over a sub-base and subsoil drainage network.

Of course, it all starts with the construction and getting this right will stand the club in good stead for many years into the future. Four main types of green construction have been used over the years. Soil-based, USGA, California, and Simplified, with the USGA type being by far the most prevalent in the modern era. Soil-based greens essentially use the native soil

The idea is that water will pass through the sand from rain or irrigation until it reaches the gravel layer, where the smaller particles of the sand holds a certain amount of water, defying gravity like a drop of water hanging on the end of your finger, above the gravel, where it can be constantly available to the grass roots. This called a “Perched Water Table”. Once the amount of water in the sand reaches a certain amount, or saturation, the weight will be

Tee subsoil completed ready for sand placement (California style)

Tee sand level and ready for grassing

BUILDING COURSES WITH JASON WINTER

Green sub-base shaped and subsoil trenching completed

Gravel installation after subsoil network completed

too much and water will quickly drain into the gravel and away through the drainage system. In a perfect system, the theory goes, you could tip a bucket of water into the sand and a bucket of water would come out the out the other end. Of course, many factors come into play for that to happen.

utilises the USGA testing criteria for the root zone sand, in a California style construction. This enables a more consistently performing USGA root zone sand to be incorporated, but still has many of the drainage and maintenance issues of the California greens. Cost saving is only the omission of the gravel layer.

The USGA method is designed to keep a consistent amount of water and nutrients available, at an optimal depth, evenly to the entire surface of the green all year round, and therefore helping in creating a consistent playing surface all year round also.

TESTING

The method is tried and tested for over 40 years and it is rare that a properly constructed, and maintained, USGA green will fail. However, it is also the most expensive method of greens construction, largely due to the requirement for quite specific materials and the careful placement of each layer during construction. Testing of the sand and gravel to be used is critical; as the wrong sand and/or the wrong gravel can severely affect the way the system works. The amendments that are added to the sand, if any, during or after construction are also important to be compatible with the system. California Greens were developed, as you might expect, at the University of California, in the 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. The method also uses sand as the root zone, with subsoil drainage at the base, but does away with the gravel layer. It allows continual drainage by the sub-base wicking moisture, via its smaller particles, out of the sand. In high rainfall areas though, drainage can be slower as the water must move sideways through the sand to reach a subsoil drain rather than dropping straight into the gravel layer. Areas directly above the drains can also become drier than other areas in droughty periods. Spacing of subsoil drains, the depth of sand and the specifications of the sand are very important to be examined as a whole system, to create consistent conditions over the entire surface of the green, if this method is to be used. This method is quite a bit cheaper than a USGA green, but can be more difficult to establish and maintain consistently throughout the year. Simplified greens construction essentially

The more critical tests on sand for the modern methods include Particle Size Distribution (the varying sizes of sand particles), which will in turn affect Hydraulic Conductivity (the rate water can flow through the sand), and Air and Water filled porosity. The gravel must also be tested, as if the size of stone is too large, the sand will migrate down into it, and clog up the system (in some cases an intermediate layer of course sand is used in between). All of these criteria should be tested by an experienced and competent laboratory accredited with the USGA, to get the full picture of the greens performance. Tees are generally constructed California style with a layer of the same sand as for greens, generally at least 200mm, preferably 300mm, over a compacted sub base with subsoil drainage. As the grass is not cut as low as for greens, and they are much smaller, they do not suffer from the stress and drainage issues like the greens do. Tees should generally fall away from the golfer entry points, usually the buggy path, to keep those areas as dry as possible. Construction of the greens begins with shaping and compacting the sub-base of the green. As the gravel layer, and then the sand layer, will exactly mirror the sub-base, the sub base must be precisely constructed to the shape of the finished product, but 400mm lower, and much time is spent getting this shape right. The design levels will be surveyed and staked over all the green, making sure all features such as tiers, ridgelines and swales are carefully located. The green has very subtle slopes and we will continuously take levels to make sure they are correct. Differences in levels such as 1 or 2 inches can make a difference! Some final tweaking might be done, after final inspections by the architect and client and after they are done viewing from all angles of approach. It is important that the surrounding areas including bunkers are shaped at the same

Spreading rootzone sand over gravel layer

Mixing amendments into rootzone sand

Final leveling of sand before grassing

time to ensure everything ties in correctly. Once the sub-base is ready and approved, the subsoil trenches will be marked out, excavated and the subsoil pipes and gravel installed. The subsoil network will outlet at the lowest point, or points, of the green and be piped to the nearest sump or lake. The gravel layer will then be carefully placed over the base at an even 100mm. This layer will once again be inspected and approved to ensure the base shape has not been lost prior to the sand installation. The sand can then be placed over the gravel, compacted and carefully prodded to ensure consistent depth and the same shape achieved. Amendments will then be added, if not already pre-mixed into the sand off-site, re-compacted, depths re-checked and a final â&#x20AC;&#x153;floatâ&#x20AC;? to get everything perfectly smooth before grassing. They are a lot of work and expense, but as mentioned, the majority of play is putting on or hitting to the greens but the extra effort will mean consistently well presented and performing surfaces. Then all you need to do is pick the line, get the pace right, keep your head still, putt the ball correctly with an accelerating stroke etc and let the green do the rest!

TEE BOX

MAXIS TEAM GOLF TOUR Final slots to Yunnan booked

29th ASEAN SENIOR GOLFERS CHAMPIONSHIP Host Malaysia shine in seniors’ meet

alaysia won three of the five titles contested at the 29th ASEAN M Senior Championship held at Kuala Lumpur recently, which attracted Six-handicapper Hamdan Zambahari carded rounds of 75, 81 and 77 at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club and The MINES Resort & Golf Club, beating compatriots Datuk Khamis Abu Samah (8) and Irwansyah Bahar (5) by a whooping nine strokes to become the new ASEAN senior champion.

uantan pair Mohamad Pizul Hazmi and Faizul Hafiz won the gross category at the eighth leg in A’Famosa Golf Resort on October 20 after returning scorecards of 74 and 76 respectively for a comfortable 11-stroke victory. The nett category was closely fought with the Penang pair Lim Eng Wah and Lim Kean Khoon combining for a five-under 139. They finished joint first with Tan Wah Leng and Thomas Chan but advanced to the grand final from November 25-28 after a countback basing on a superior back nine score.

The nett division saw Hamizan Md Derus (11) return with a 212 total on the back of rounds of 70,73 and 69 to beat the trio of Pratheep Rattanajeena of Thailand, Indonesia’s Azibar Ali Amran and FilipinoTomas Trinidad by one shot.

In the team event, Hamdan and Khamis joined forces with Goh Chan Tau (8) and Mohd Chudi (4) to win the coveted Tun Sir Henry HS Lee Challenge Trophy by 19 shots from Singapore. Indonesia defeated the hosts to win the nett team championship by eight strokes. President of Senior Golfers Society of Malaysian (SGSM) Tan Sri Sallehuddin Mohammad, who was elected as the president of Confederation of ASEAN Senior Golfers Association (CASGA), announced during the prize presentation that Indonesia will host next year’s event in Jogjakarta.

r Alex Chau qualified for a grand final on his fifth attempt after triumphing at the ninth leg at Bukit Jawi Golf Resort on November 3. Chau and his blind partner Voon Sin Choon combined for a four-under 140 nett. The gross title was won by locals Tan Yit Chun and Yeoh Ching Nguang who carded a combined 164 total to emerge victorious by two shots.

PRUDENTIAL ASTRO MASTERS Surabaya high for Nordin

ver 100 participants from Malaysia comprising finalists, sponsors, O media and guests got a taste of warm Javanese hospitality during the grand final of the Prudential Astro Master in Surabaya, Indonesia. After 36 holes of competitive golf at Taman Dayu Golf Club and Finna Golf Club, Nordin Yahaya showed why he is one of the more consistent amateur players around when he carded rounds of 80 and 77 for a gross haul of 157 to defeated 39 other players, who had qualified from 20 preliminary rounds held between March to July. For his victory, the 30-year old administrator from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) won a trophy, discount vouchers from Titoni, a 42-inch Panasonic LCD television and a set of Bridgestone irons. Rusdi Yusuf Othman won the nett title with rounds of 72 and 77.

lub champion Zakaria Mohammad and Pua Yii Shiuan prevailed in the final leg of the Maxis Team Golf Tour at Kota Permai Golf & Country Club. They combined for a 154 gross, easily beating Tan Vi Kung and Khoo Gee Seng by 11 strokes. The nett competition was closely contested with Faiz Mohamad Noor and Hj Zaharuddin Mat Yassin finishing with a 144 to edge three other teams by one stroke.

TEE BOX

TMGOLF 2012

Strong support at Kuching stop

full field of 120 participants made their presence felt at the fourth leg on TM Golf 2012 at Kelab Golf Sarawak on September 23.

Mohd Nasir Hussain (18) of Carisa Development, who claimed the individual gross title with a gross 78 round, also topped the invitational category with 38 Stableford points.

Japar Mustapa needed a countback win in the open division after he had finished tied with four others on 36 points.

DANAU GC CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP Amir crowned Danau champion

wo-handicapper Amir Benno cruised to a six-stroke victory during the annual club championship at Danau Golf Club, which was played from October 5-7. Amirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two-day total of eight-over 152 gave him the win ahead of runner-up Nasaruddin Basir (4). Nick Ang (2) finished third after returning with a 160 overall. In the nett divison, Mejar Zulkifli Mustafa (16) claimed the title on countback after finishing tied with Andi Adam Bachok (18) on 139.

PHARMATON INVITATIONAL GOLF Event set to be an annual affair

he inaugural Pharmaton Invitational Golf held on October 25 saw the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loyal clientele, partners and media personnel invited for a friendly tournament at Kota Permai Golf & Country Club. Coming home on top was Johnny Wong, who regular at Pharmaton golf events in the past and with 38 Stableford Points. Wong, who has competed in numerous Pharmaton golf events and a former PharmatonSaujana Senior Malaysian Open champion. K K Ng and Imran Mohd Nor were one point adrift in a share for second. The grand lucky draw prize of a return trip to Dubai on the new Emirates A380 went to Raymond Yee of CrestLink.

TEE BOX

U MOBILE GOLF TOURNAMENT Great fun & camaraderie at telco event A closely-fought contest came down to the final hole as Dato’ Mohd Shafie Harun triumphed at the U Mobile Golf Tournament, which took place at Staffield Country Resort on November 21.

The 11-handicapper garnered a point on the finishing hole for a 39 Stableford points total to walk home as the winner in the annual golf tournament hosted by U Mobile, Malaysia’s most innovative and dynamic telco, for over 70 of its partners, ministry representatives, business associates and friends. A close second was Christopher Yeow (16) on 38 points while Dato’ Maarof Haji Abdul Rahman took third place on countback with an accumulated score of 37 points. The tournament culminated with the prize presentation ceremony to the winners by Jaffa Sany Ariffin, the CEO of U Mobile. Most of the participants did not go home empty-handed as there were many lucky draw prizes which included Samsung, HTC and Blackberry devices

as well as TaylorMade and Titleist merchandise. The grand lucky draw prize of travel vouchers worth RM10,000 was shared by Jackie Low and Danion Ong while the hole-in-one prize of a Mazda 2 sedan sponsored by Bermaz Motors Sdn Bhd went unclaimed. At the prize presentation ceremony, Jaffa expressed U Mobile’s gratitude to all its partners for their support and as well as to the main sponsors, Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd, Ericsson (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Huawei Technologies Malaysia Sdn Bhd and ZTE (Malaysia) Corporation Sdn Bhd for their generosity in sponsorship. “I would like to take a short moment to express my deepest appreciation for your continous support in 2012. U Mobile has grown and celebrated numerous milestones this year and we look forward to continuing that success and strive to be standing tall as one of the top three telcos in Malaysia in the years to come,” said Jaffa.

MALAYSIAN RUBBER EXCHANGE GOLF 2012 South East Asian industry captains gather for yearly retreat

he Malaysian Rubber Exchange hosted its annual networking golf tournament on October 12 at Kelab Rahman Putra Malaysia, aimed at strengthening business ties and promoting closer cooperation within the ASEAN rubber fraternity. The 2012 edition proved to be special one, as it commemorated the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Malaysian Rubber Exchange. Chang Kok Wah emerged as the champion from the 100-player field. The event was presented by Bursa Malaysia Derivatives with the support of presenting sponsors Getahindus (M) Sdn Bhd, Revertex (M) Sdn Bhd, Mah Sing Plastics Industries Sdn Bhd, Top Glove Sdn Bhd, Felda Rubber Industries Sdn Bhd, Lee Rubber (Selangor) Sdn Bhd, KL Confexhub Sdn Bhd, R1 International Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Mardec Berhad.

(Available in Mid December)