Golf Jamaica Volume 4

Volume 4 2015

The most exciting Golf destination in the Caribbean!

In This Issue: World’s Oldest Caddy?

3 Different Stances: Which Should You Use?

Jamaican Golf on the International Stage Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships

Jamaica & Sport Tourism SANTA: Seeing a Need…

Taking Action

Hold on to summer.

Photos of summer will be shared and tucked away, but in PANDORA charms, your moments in the sun shine on. Capture the spirit of this summer’s adventures in our latest collection at PANDORA.net.

Falmouth • Ocho Rios Montego Bay • Kingston

appletonrumtour@wrayandnephew.com

www.appletonrum.com

Our Caymanas

Constant Spring

Cinnamon Hill

Half Moon

Ironshore

Manchester

Negril Hills

Runaway Bay

Sandals

Tryall Club

White Witch

Courses

All-inclusive luxury now gives you a choice of two spectacular courses.

IBEROSTAR GRAND HOTEL ROSE HALL Stay 5+ nights*, receive 2 complimentary golf rounds at Cinnamon Hill or White Witch Stay 3-4 nights, receive 1 complimentary round

The AAA Four Diamond IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall is a golfer’s dream with a choice of two of the Caribbean’s most spectacular and challenging courses.

Cinnamon Hill’s 18 holes of mountain vistas, shoreline holes and ancient aqueduct hold a rich history that includes famed poetry and movie-making. The White Witch is considered one of the finest courses in the Caribbean, rated as the #1 Golf Course and #1 in Golf Shop Staff service by Conde Nast Traveler. It’s a vacation of adults-only, all-inclusive luxury, with personalized butler service, specialty restaurants, a world-class spa and full-service, all-inclusive golf. Experience a resort paradise and a golf paradise all in one stunning location.

Montego Bay, JAMAICA Contact your favorite travel professional or visit iberostar.com *Based on double occupancy at IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Book 5-7 nights based on double occupancy and receive two complimentary rounds per person. Book 3-4 nights based on double occupancy and receive one complimentary round per person. Not redeemable for cash. Non transferable. Black-out dates and additional restrictions may apply. Entire offer is based on availability. Offer subject to change without notice. IBEROSTAR does not assume responsibility for errors or omissions within the content of this advertisement.

Our Jamaica

Golf Courses • Air Transport • Attractions Donald Sangster International Airport

1

3

2

4

RUNAWAY BAY

MONTEGO BAY

Runaway Bay Golf Club

Tryall Club

Negril Aerodrome

Trelawney

Hanover Negril Hills Golf Club

Westmoreland

St. James

Clar

Y.S. FALLS

St. Elizabeth BLACK RIVER

Montego Bay Courses

Manchester The Manchester Club

1. Ironshore Golf & Country Club 2. Half Moon Golf Course 3. White Witch Golf Course

Download Golf Jamaica at www.golfjamaicamag.com

4. Cinnamon Hill Golf Course

TA IN M OU

N

CO VE A

IC

KK

M YS T

CH U

Ian Fleming International Airport

DUNNS RIVER FALLS

OCHO RIOS

Sandals Golf & Country Club FERN GULLY

St. Ann

Ken Jones Aerodrome

St. Mary

Portland endon

PORT ANTONIO

St. Catherine St. Andrew Kingston

Constant Spring Golf Club

Tinson Pen Aerodrome

Caymanas Golf & Country Club PORT ROYAL

KEY

St. Thomas

Norman Manley International Airport

GOLF COURSE

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

ATTRACTION

AERODROME

Come to

Jamaica A World Class Golf Destination

What’s Inside 1 2 4 8 10 14 16

Montego Bay Courses Cinnamon Hill Half Moon Ironshore Tryall White Witch Ansel Millington Warren Oldest Caddy in the World?

19 Ocho Rios Courses 20 Sandals 22 Runaway Bay Features 29 Calendar of Golf Events 2015 30 The Expert’s Eye:

3 Different Stances What Stance Should You Use? 32

Jamaica & Sports Tourism

34

Golf Professionals

Manchester Course 36 Manchester Negril Course 38 Negril Hills

When people think of Jamaica, the first images that come to mind are sun, sea and sand, but the name is also synonymous with dynamic music, rich cultural traditions, world-class athletes and unrivalled natural beauty.

The golf courses continue to be ranked among the best in the Caribbean, with challenging and breathtaking layouts designed by renowned golf course architects. An acknowledged hub for international tournaments, Jamaica has played host to several premier events in 2014. In 2015, the country will once again welcome a prestigious regional event, the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships in which ten islands will compete.

41 Kingston Courses 42 Caymanas 44 Constant Spring 46 Jamaican Golf on the

International Stage 47 Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships 48 Inaugural Junior Golf

Summer Camp 49 Buccaneers for Charity 50 SANTA - Seeing A Need…

Taking Action

CREDITS Publisher - MAPCO Printers Limited

As Jamaica looks at ways to increase foreign exchange earnings, the importance of sports tourism is a key factor in paving the way to economic development.

Editor - Joy Campbell

We invite you to take a pictorial trip through golf courses, which showcase Jamaica and her diverse offerings.

Graphic Design McMedia Graphics

You can also download Golf Jamaica at www.golfjamaicamag.com.

Consultant Golf Professional Spencer Edwards

Art Director - Nicholas McClure Photography - Nicholas Chai Chong

(Caymanas, Constant Spring, Manchester, Runaway Bay and Negril courses)

MAPCO Printers Ltd. makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of information given but accepts no responsiblity for errors or omissions or for claims made in any section of this publication. All material in this publication is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means without written approval from MAPCO Printers Ltd.

Other photos courtesy of Half Moon, Cinnamon Hill, White Witch, Sandals, Runaway Bay, Ironshore and The Jamaica Tourist Board

Advertising Sales -

Shelly-Ann Dunkley, shelly@mapcoprinters.com

1

Montego Bay

Courses

2

Cinnamon

Hill

3

Cinnamon Hill Cinnamon Hill was once part of a sugar plantation and one of the fascinating features of this golf course is an aqueduct built in 1761 that was used in the process of grinding sugar.

Originally designed by Hank Smedley in 1969, Cinnamon Hill was given a facelift in 2001 by Von Hagge and Baril.

The front nine is designed so that golfers are at the mercy of coastal winds. The back nine features bunkers that can be treacherous to the adventurous golfer.

The course has been ranked among Jamaica’s finest by Golf Digest and is also known for its caddies, which have been listed among the best in the world by Golfer Magazine.

Golf Course Professional: Sebert Walker

Tournaments Hosted: Annie’s Revenge Caribbean Golf Association Classic JACI Golf Tournament Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships Jamaica Open MOJO 6 LPGA Event Ocean Style Golf Classic Tournament

Cinnamon Hill Golf Course Box 1 Rose Hall PO Rose Hall, St. James Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 953-2984 Email: cinnamonhill@rosehall.com Website: www.cinnamonhilljamaica.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

BACK

6828

74.2

136

MIDDLE

6350

71.9

134

FORWARD

5208

66.0

118

LADIES

5840

74.4

135

4

Home to the Jamaica Open

5

Half Moon Half Moon Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Sr. and renovated by Roger Rulewich, the Half Moon is an award-winning resort course that boasts breathtaking views, gently undulating fairways and greens. The Golf Academy was launched in 2008 and provides a variety of coaching programmes tailored to the needs of individual golfers.

6

Half Moon has been home to the JAMAICA OPEN—the Caribbean’s most prestigious golf tournament—for over eight years and has hosted a number of international golf events. This challenging course is also a member of the Great Resorts of the World.

Golf Course Professional: Spencer Edwards

Tournaments Hosted: Celebrity Players Tour Jamaica Classic Dunhill Cup Final of the Americas European PGA Seniors Tournament Jamaica Open Golf Championship National Match Play Tournament Finals Red Stripe Pro-Am

7

Half Moon Golf Course Half Moon, A RockResort Rose Hall Jamaica W.I. (876) 953 -2211 or (876) 953 -2560 website: www.halfmoongolf.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

CHAMPIONSHIP

7141

75.1

131

COMPETITION

6581

72.1

129

GENTLEMEN’S

6233

68.3

117

LADIES

5835

74.2

134

Ladies, Seniors & Juniors

5030

64.4

114

8

Ironshore

Golf & Country Club

9

Tournaments Hosted: Caribbean Golf Association Classic

Ironshore Golf & Country Club Whitter Group 1139 Morgan Rd, Ironshore Montego Bay, Jamaica W.I.

Ironshore Golf Course The Ironshore Golf & Country Club sits adjacent to prime housing developments and is known for its undulating fairways and dogleg setup. The course offers impressive views of the Caribbean Sea and a low-lying range of hills adds to the delightful scenery.

The course was designed by Canadian Robert Moot and built in 1972 and was originally part of a sugar plantation. The charm of the course comes from its Australian Pine, lush vegetation and greens protected by well-placed bunkers.

P: (876)953-3682 F: (876) 953-9619 Email: whittergroup@cwjamaica.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

CHAMPION

6570

71.5

122

REGULAR

6285

69.9

117

LADIES

5384

70.6

116

10

The

Tryall Club Tournaments Hosted: Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf LPGA/Senior PGA Mazda Championship LPGA Jamaica Classic Johnnie Walker World Championship

11

The Tryall Club Texan golf course architect Ralph Plummer is the designer of the Tryall Club, which incorporates the island’s hilly terrain and other natural elements for a unique golfing experience.

Nine holes wind along the Caribbean Sea coast, while the others meander through lush hillsides.

In 2005, Tryall was voted the Best Golf Course in the Caribbean by Caribbean World Magazine. The course offers a range of dramatic views from elevated tees.Tryall has also hosted a number of LPGA events, as well as the prestigious Johnny Walker World Championships.

The Tryall Club P.O. Box 1206

Golf Course Professional: Ewan Peebles

Montego Bay, St. James Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 956-5660 Website: www.tryallclub.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

BACK

6836

74.1

136

MIDDLE

6352

71.5

131

FORWARD

5382

67.7

125

LADIES

5155

70.6

122

12

Ad placement

PROVEN

14

White Witch

Course

15

White Witch Course The White Witch Golf Course was so named by the architects Robert von Hagge and Rick Baril, in honour of Annie Palmer, the 19th century owner of the original plantation on which the course is built. The course has been described as ‘alluringly dangerous and unpredictable’ by von Hagge. Opened in 2000, the White Witch course was crafted from 600 acres of lush countryside, including mountainous terrain.

Golfers are afforded panoramic views of land and sea from 16 holes and are best advised to be on guard as shifting winds make play challenging.

Golf Course Professional: Damian Stewart

Tournaments Hosted: Annie’s Revenge CGA Classic IFJG World Junior Golf Championships JACI Golf Tournament Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf

Box 1 Rose Hall PO Rose Hall, St. James Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 632-7444-5 Email: cinnamonhill@rosehall.com Website: http://whitewitchgolf.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

BLACK

6758

74

139

BLUE

6365

72.2

135

WHITE

5093

70.2

128

RED

5397

73.2

126

16

Ansel Millington Warren

Could this man be the oldest caddy in the world‌?

17

On December 25th, 2014, Ansel Warren will be celebrating his 90th birthday. This gentle and charming man is endearing to all who encounter him. With a heart-warming smile and a willingness to serve, Ansel is always ready and waiting to welcome his returning guests to the Half Moon Golf Course where he has caddied for more than 32 years.

Born on Christmas Day in 1924, we believe that at age 89, Ansel could be the oldest caddy in the world and he still carries the golf bag when he’s required to. The golf course and the game of golf have changed so much from the first day he looked across at the golf course being opened 50 years ago in 1964. There’s an interesting story here and we hope you enjoy it…

Ansel remembers his days of working at the West Indies Sugar Company at Frome which is ironic as the land on which the golf course is laid out was formerly prime sugar-growing land! In the early 1960’s, Ansel was employed as a supervisor of eight men working to help shape and construct the golf course that Robert Trent Jones senior designed. Each time he watched the players on the course, he was intrigued, and vowed that one day, if the Lord permitted, he would seize the opportunity and try his hand at golfing on this wonderful-looking golf course.

Before that day came, he was part of the team that built the original golf club house and five of the large houses, known as Spring Farm, that overlook the golf course. He also looked after Mr. John Rollins’ cows that at times would break through the fence on to the golf course. The pull of the golf course did not abate and it was at the 1982 Jamaica Open at Half Moon that Ansel received a request to assist in the tournament as a caddy and from that moment onward, his life changed.

For the past 32 years, Ansel has been there with the best of the best, providing ongoing support, strategizing, giving tips and being the consummate professional. Half Moon has a strong history of celebrities, royalty and senators as their guests.

President Bush just happened to be one such lucky golfer to receive a golf tip from Ansel. He also enjoys meeting people from all walks of life and Director of Golf, Spencer Edwards shared with us that he constantly receives guest requests for Ansel to be their caddy.

Ansel has passed on his love for the game to his descendants, all of whom are fine golfers beating old man par on a regular basis. The finest of these golfers is Ansel’s son, Dermot Paul Warren, Pablo as he is better known to his friends. Pablo is possibly Jamaica’s finest golfer at age 46 and worthy of a story about himself. Ansel’s grandson, Michael Smith is Half Moon’s Assistant Caddy Master, his grandsons Ainsley (Bruce) Palmer and Dwayne Wilson are also top-class golfers and engaged at Half Moon as caddies.

Not many golf courses can boast of having what could be the oldest caddy in the world. Half Moon has such a caddy in Ansel Millington Warren. We certainly would like to know from our readers if there is an older caddy out there today that could compete with Ansel.

About Half Moon, A RockResort Half Moon is a 400-acre luxury resort located on Jamaica’s North Coast. The 59-year-old resort features two miles of private, white-sand beach with 197 spacious rooms and suites.

Additionally, the AAA Four-Diamond resort offers 31 expansive four-, five-, six- and seven-bedroom villas all with private pools and personal staff of butler, cook and housekeeper. In addition to spacious accommodations, Half Moon offers guests a wide variety of amenities and activities including the multiaward winning Fern Tree Spa, a Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed 18-hole golf course, Half Moon Golf Academy, Spinning® studio, 13 lit tennis courts, equestrian centre, fitness centre, 54 swimming pools, a teen activity centre, the colourful Anancy Children’s Village, water sports, dolphin lagoon, shopping village, including 24-hour medical centre and more.

Couples Resorts

2012

速

速

19

Ocho Rios

Courses

20

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Jamaica • West Indies

Sandals Golf & Country Club

21

Sandals Golf and Country Club Once a nine-hole course, the Sandals Golf & Country Club (formerly known as Upton Golf Course) was extended in the 1960’s to an 18-hole resort-style layout that is popular with both tourists and Jamaicans.

Designed by P.K. Saunders, the course opened in 1951 and was added to the Sandals family in 1992. The layout offers challenges such as gently undulating fairways and compact greens.

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Although chock-full of scenic views, golfers should exercise caution as the Sandals course demands precision. Among its other facilities, Sandals boasts a shagging area and practice putting green.

Jamaica • West Indies Sandals Golf & Country Club P.O. Box 771

Golf Professional: Bill Williams

Ocho Rios, St. Ann Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 975-0119 Fax: (876) 975-0196 Website: www.sandals.com

Tournaments Hosted: Panasonic Championship Sandals Celebrity Golf Tournament

Tee BLUE WHITE RED

GOLF & C OUNT R Y C L USlope B Yardage Course Ratings Rating

6405 70.9 Jamaica • West Indies128 6054

69.9

125

4961

69.3

120

22

Runaway

Bay

Golf Club

23

24

25

26

Runaway Bay Golf Course The Runaway Bay Golf Course was designed in 1960 by Englishman, Major John Harris.

The fairways are lengthy and the greens guarded by bunkers.

The Golf Academy provides lessons for both new and seasoned golfers, and welcomes visiting teaching professionals year round.

This par-72 Championship course has seen many premium events such as a Ryder Cup Match, the Heineken World Cup Qualifier and the JAMAICA OPEN.

27

Tournaments Hosted: CNBC Nations Cup Heineken World Cup Qualifier Jamaica Open

Runaway Bay Golf Club Runaway Bay, St. Ann Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 973-7319 Website: www.jewelresorts.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

BACK

6870

73.6

124

MIDDLE

6487

N/R

N/R

LADIES

5563

72.5

120

29

Calendar of Golf Events 2015 JANUARY

JULY

Sun 11th

Friendly Lodge

CAY

Sat 4th - Sun 5th

Mid Island Championships

MAN

Jan 15-18

5th Annual Tryall Invit. Pro-Am

TA

Sun 12th

Scottish Freemason's Charity

CHILL

Jan 17

Junior/Adult Scramble

SAN

Sat 18th

Matthew Lee Memorial

CSGC

Sat 24th

Quarterly Scramble

CAY

Sun 26th

CAGC 2015

Sun 25th

Scramble / Interclub Championship

CAY

Sat 31st

AISK Tournament

CSGC

FEBRUARY

AUGUST Sat 1st

CAGC Ends/Emancipation Day

Sat 8th - Sun 9th

Independence 36

SAN

Sun 8th

Barrington Miller Lodge

MAN

Sat 29th

Quarterly Scramble

TBA

Sat 14th

CSGC Match Play Championship

CSGC

Sun 30th

Interclub Championship

TBA

Sat 21st

JGA Flights Classic

CAY

Sun 22nd

JGA Flights Classic

CAY

SEPTEMBER

Sat 28th

Captain's Drive In

CSGC

Sat 26th

Kiwanis Club of Downtown Kingston

CSGC

Sun 8th

Interclub Championship

TBA

Sat 14th

Heart Foundation of Jamaica

CSGC

Sat 21st

JGA Flights Classic

CSGC

Sun 22nd

JGA Flights Classic

CSGC

Sun 29th

Rotary Club of Kingston

CAY

MARCH

OCTOBER Sat 3rd - Sun 4th

CSGC 36

CSGC

Sat 17th - Sun 18th

Heroes' Weekend Classic

CHILL

Sat 24th

Phoenix Lodge

CSGC

Sun 25th

Quarterly Scramble

TBA

Sat 31st

Interclub Championships

TBA

Ocean Style Golf Classic

TBA

APRIL Sat 4th - Sun 5th

Easter Jamboree

RBAY

Apr 3-5

Junior Golf Trials

CAY

Sun 12th

St. Andrew Care

CAY

–

Annie’s Revenge

WW

Caribbean Cup

RBAY

NOVEMBER

Sat 18th

Munro Old Boys' Association

CSGC

–

Sun 19th

Junior Cup

TBA

Sun 8th

Kiwanis Club of New Kingston

CAY

Sat 25th

Quarterly Scramble

TBA

Sat 21st - Sun 22nd

Alliance Memorial

CAY

Sun 26th

Interclub Championships

TBA

Fri 27th

Annual Homeowners' Scramble

TA

DECEMBER

MAY Sat 2nd

Campion College

CAY

Dec 2-6

JAMAICA OPEN

HM

Sun 3rd

Junior Cup

MAN

Sun 6th

SANTA

CSGC

Sat 9th

Methodist Church Charity

CAY

Sun 13th

Christmas Hamper

CAY

Sat 16th

Kiwanis Club of North St. Andrew

CSGC

Sat 19th

Christmas Hamper

CSGC

Sun 17th

Junior Cup

TBA

May 21-24

National Amateur Championship

CAY

Sat 30th

Junior Cup

TBA

–

CGA Classic

TBA

JUNE

KEY CAY - Caymanas Golf & Country Club

MAN - Manchester Club

CHILL - Cinnamon Hill Golf Club

SAN - Sandals Golf & Country Club

June 4-7

National Trials

TBA

CSGC - Constant Spring Golf Club

Sun 14th

Interclub Championship

TBA

HM - Half Moon Club

Sun 28th

Manchester Golf Week

MAN

RBAY - Runaway Bay Golf Club

TA - Tryall Club TBA - To be Announced

Please note dates are subject to change

30

The Expert’s Eye

3 Stances Different

Which stance should you be using?

Discover the best stance to improve your drives and game…

With a stance that suits your style of swing and your flexibility, you could improve your distance, control and your ball striking. It may even relieve pressure from your lower back.

The positioning of your feet will have a huge influence over the way your body can or can’t move. It’s important that we rotate our shoulders enough to encourage the club to swing freely.

Your stance should promote stability as well as encourage a free flowing swing of the club.

Most golf instruction articles suggest a shoulder turn of 90 degrees. You will rarely see a big hitting Tour Professional rotate their shoulders less than 100 degrees and in many cases they will often rotate as much as 110 degrees!!!

So which stance best suits YOU???

1. RIGHT FOOT SQUARE This is often for the young and flexible golfer and used by Tiger Woods (Picture 1).

1

Tiger Woods was SO flexible in his early years on tour that he was encouraged to position his right foot pointing straight forward, this helped to keep his swing under control and prevent him from over rotating in the back swing.

31

2

3

2. BOTH FEET TURNED OUT EVENLY AT 30 DEGREES This will suit the majority of golfers (Picture 2).

Ernie Els was encouraged by David Leadbetter to turn both feet out evenly at 30 degrees. This is a more natural stance and with the right foot splayed out to match the left, you will now feel that you can turn freely in both the back swing and through swing.

3. A Closed Stance This is for the more senior golfer and those golfers with restricted flexibility (Picture 3).

Gary Player at the Seniors Open Championship a few years ago explained how he had gained 30 yards of distance with his driver. He said that he simply pulled his right foot back and splayed it out more than normal. This helped him to not only create a full shoulder turn again but also gave his hands more opportunity to close the club during the down swing.

Gary Player turned his gentle fade into a stronger more powerful draw shot, the 30 yards of extra distance was all achieved by re-positioning his right foot.

Remember, there are many ways in which we can swing a golf club.

The perfect golf swing does exist and a good coach will help you find the swing that is perfect for you.

If you would like to improve your game, Half Moon offers you the best practice and coaching experience in Jamaica, so why not stop by and allow us to help you find your best golf game.

Best of luck with your golf,

The Half Moon Golf Range and Academy welcomes you!

Director of Golf Half Moon Resort E-mail: sedwards@halfmoon.com

55 range balls for $5.00 Golf Range and Practice Facility fee $7.50 Golf Membership at the Half Moon is available Telephone 1 - 876 - 953 - 2211 to find out more

Jamaica 32

& Sport Tourism The sport business changes every day and with the competition even more fierce in the boardroom than on the field of play, one has to be aware of the ‘matters arising’. So much has changed in the last five years. It is absolutely necessary for officials to keep in touch with the trends, forecasts and proposed outcomes in this massive industry.

Sport means different things to different people, but those who want to have a grasp on what is going on may want to speak to a few persons. Some like sport because it provides an opportunity for gambling while some simply want recreation. In examining those two different perspectives, one wants to win and that act of gambling is a game itself; while the other would like to be able to hike, walk, cycle, run a 5K or ski maybe just for fun.

The point is though, the many areas of the sport business creates an opportunity for an entire population to participate. Here is how – the business itself focuses on value of teams, value of sponsor investment, money made from tickets, advertising through media, endorsements, sales at venues where major events are held and in more recent times, the sport equipment consumers purchase as the fitness/wellness/healthy living lifestyles become more prominent. That in fact covers a wide cross-section of any population.

In Jamaica for instance, the sporting areas most associated with any measure of success include football, cricket, track and field, netball and basketball – those attract the biggest crowds to date, hence they are considered major sports. If the franchise model is used, we should be able to calculate the investment made across the board in the five sporting areas in terms of •

national teams

•

club and/or parish teams

•

collegiate teams

•

high school teams

•

other teams

33

If these institutions keep accurate records, then it would not be difficult to ascertain the numbers and be able to start offering better estimates of what the Jamaican sporting industry really does value. I have deliberately left out horseracing which can be addressed at some other point. Needless to say, its figures would surpass all the ones listed previously.

International Trends Plunkett Research in the USA states that – Sports are big business. Combined, the “Big 4” leagues in America, the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Hockey League (NHL) and Major League Baseball (MLB), bring in about $23 billion in revenue during a typical year, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. U.S. sporting equipment sales at retail sporting goods stores are $42.6 billion yearly, according to U.S. government figures. A reasonable estimate of the total U.S. sports market would be $440 to $470 billion yearly. However, the sports industry is so complex, including ticket sales, licensed products, sports video games, collectibles, sporting goods, sports-related advertising, endorsement income, stadium naming fees and facilities income, that it’s difficult to put an all-encompassing figure on annual revenue. When researching numbers in the sports industry, be prepared for apparent contradictions. For example, the NFL receives vastly more money each year for TV and cable broadcast rights than MLB, despite the fact that MLB teams play about 10 times more games each year than NFL teams.

This contradiction though is supported by the power of a Brand – NFL has more key star personalities than the MLB at this stage and even with more games, the pull of the NFL is stronger. We reflect on the NBA as with the continued personality competition between Kevin Durrant and Lebron James – that is helping the NBA right

now. Just reflect on when Michael Jordan retired and you will understand. The MLB in recent times has been riddled with way too much controversy i.e. Alex Rodriquez and his shenanigans have created ‘doubt’ in consumers’ minds – even though the games are still well supported, media has not been able to transfer the excitement of the game even through advertising. The MLB may best try to ‘find’ a personality to re-assert the league in a more positive way.

The Jamaican sporting industry may lead the Caribbean in terms of what the perception is to the world and the personalities are better known. Does the country though research its data to be able to inform its people of the opportunities that exist and how it can actually add to business and employment opportunities? The recommendations are: •

Tertiary level institutions should get more involved in research, development and innovation

•

The already established officials should enhance their current base and widen scope by adding certification in related sport areas – management, science, marketing, legal

•

Once and for all, a proper stadium facility is needed

•

Teachers’ College should have Physical Education in their curriculum to teach at the Primary level

Jamaica’s advantage lies, at the moment, in the rich history of sport and the content is super-valuable. Its packaging is therefore key and with media outlets looking for unique content, maybe it is time that approach is taken. The platforms available for content are radio, television, mobile, games and big screens.

34

ToponPros Display

Jamaica’s

Golfers the world over, are known for challenging themselves to improve the quality of their game. Whether at home or on vacation, an avid player will seize the opportunity to spend time on the golf course. Jamaica is known for its array of breathtaking and – in some cases – tricky courses.

Our local golfers gear themselves up for various events by having lessons with a selection of talented professionals. Some players simply want to improve their swing, others wish to gain distance and shave strokes off their golf score, and the serious competitors strive for all-round improvement. Whether based in Kingston or on the North Coast, golfers have access to golf professionals who excel at what they do.

Clive Clayton – Caymanas Golf & Country Club Since 1967, Clive Clayton—golf professional at the Caymanas Golf & Country Club— has been involved in the sport of golf. He started playing at an early age and went on to caddy at age fifteen. As his skill at the game grew, he began winning tournaments, became an approved player and then graduated to the pro ranks.

Clayton spent time under the tutelage of Caleb Haye (past golf pro at Tryall) and Bill Greenleef (PGA Master Professional), learning how to coach the sport. Since then, Clayton has been instrumental in coaching the students in the In-the-City Programme that was run by the Jamaica Golf Association. In 1990, he became the professional at Caymanas and in 1997 assumed the role of greens keeper. Today, he still performs dual roles at the club. Calm and jovial, Clayton’s patience and love of the sport is evident to those members and guests he coaches.

For those who wish to improve their game, lessons can be booked through the pro shop at Caymanas.

Jason Lopez – Constant Spring Golf Club Jason Lopez opened the modern and innovative Swing Solutions, a golf studio and driving range in partnership with the Constant Spring Golf Club. The golf school caters to both juniors and regular golfers in the capital city. Lopez has been involved in the game since he was six years of age. He represented Jamaica at a national level for six (6) years and earned a golf scholarship to Florida State University. He turned professional in 2001, played on several tours and then returned to Jamaica in 2006 at which time he started the Jason Lopez School of Golf.

Appointments can be made with Jason Lopez (head golf professional), Fabian Campbell (assistant golf professional) or Ian Christie (assistant golf professional) by calling 876 469-2022.

35 Sebert Walker – Cinnamon Hill Sebert Walker was introduced to golf at thirteen years of age through caddying at the Caymanas Golf & Country Club. He improved his game through association and friendship with Kenute Swaby and Norman Marsh—a past JAMAICA OPEN Champion—and by competing in various events. His professional career began at the Ironshore Golf Course in 1991 and Walker has served as President of the PGA of Jamaica. He is a certified golf instructor and has worked with the Faldo Golf Schools–Naples and Seaview from 2007-2009. He is the Head Golf Professional at Cinnamon Hill.

Bookings for lessons with Walker can be made through the club at the breathtaking Cinnamon Hill course, where he also oversees the Junior Golf Programme.

Spencer Edwards – Half Moon Club In his role as Director of Golf at the prestigious Half Moon, a RockResort, Spencer Edwards is committed to helping golfers develop their best game and realize their full potential. A former European Tour player and British PGA Qualified Golf Professional, Edwards assumed his role at Half Moon in 2011.

Edwards is in a unique position to take golfers’ games to the next level, having coached three Ryder Cup players and helped more than a dozen European Tour winners.

Lessons with Edwards can be booked through the Half Moon Golf Academy, which serves new and experienced golfers.

Byron Bernard – Half Moon Club Our Golf Professional Byron Bernard joined the Half Moon team in 1972. Having started out as the Caddy Master, it was a natural progression to becoming a Golf Professional. Inspired by watching Chuck Thorpe’s course record round of 63, Byron studied the game of golf professionals and developed his knowledge and skills.

Byron’s proven coaching method is evident in the good golf swing of his younger brother Ernest. From coaching beginners and children, to enhancing the game of Prince Reiner Why not enjoy a coaching experience of a life time from Jamaica’s most experienced golf coach?

Byron understands how important it is to use coaching formulas that best suit your learning style. You can be sure of Byron keeping his delivery simple and effective.

Bill Williams – Sandals Golf & Country Club A veteran at the game of golf, Bill Williams has been involved in the sport for 34 years. He began playing the game at age 20 and was first exposed to the sport through caddying. He has worked with several golf professionals, including Seymour Rose and Attila Becsy (Canadian), who taught him how to coach the sport. Over the years, Williams has been instrumental in helping to improve the game of some of the island’s top golfers.

Currently, he runs the junior golf programme at Sandals Golf & Country Club and also gives lessons to guests from the Sandals resorts and other properties.

Ewan Peebles – Tryall Club With top ten finishes in the 2009 & 2010 JAMAICA OPEN, as well as being the 2006, 2007 & 2011 Player of the Year on the local professional circuit, Ewan Peebles knows the lay of the land in Jamaica. Peebles’ teaching and golf management career in Jamaica began in 2002, which means that he has brought a wealth of experience to the magnificent Tryall Club.

Lessons may be booked with Peebles through the golf shop at Tryall on a course which provides a rich learning experience for those who wish to enjoy a taste of golf in an exotic setting.

Damian Stewart – White Witch Golf Course A thirteen-year journey culminated with Damian Stewart being appointed Head Golf Professional at the White Witch Golf Course in November, 2013. Stewart came to golf from the life insurance industry in August 2000 with the opening of the White Witch Golf Course. He moved through the ranks, coming up from providing outdoor services at the golf course.

Through PGA Class A members, such as Andrew Rogers, Kenn Depew and Mike Cole, Stewart learned the operations aspect of the golf course—from bag room, to storeroom, to golf shop and giving lessons. The year 2002 saw him being appointed as Assistant Golf Pro and eventually assuming the role of Head Professional.

With a range of guests from various hotel properties, Stewart prides himself on being patient, observant and communicating clearly with his students who all want to improve their game.

36

The

Manchester Club

37

Manchester Club Situated in the town of Mandeville, the Manchester Club is a quaint and charming course equipped with nine greens and eighteen different tee positions. Its elevation, at 2,201 ft above sea level, provides golfers with impressive views of the surrounding countryside.

The Manchester Club was first founded in 1865, with the course built shortly after the game’s invention in Scotland.

The club was declared a Protected Heritage Site in July 2007.

Manchester Golf Club P.O. Box 17, Mandeville Manchester, Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 962-2403 Fax: (876) 625-6746 E-mail: manchesterclub1865@gmail.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

WHITE

5776

68.4

128

RED

4883

69.1

124

38

Negril Hills

Golf Club

39

Negril Hills Golf Club Negril Hills P.O. Jamaica, W.I.

Negril Hills Golf Club

Tel: (876) 957-4638 / 3641

The Negril Hills course was designed by Robert Simmons and constructed in 1994. Carved from hilly terrain, the course is characterized by rolling fairways, elevated tees and greens and magnificent views. Although hilly, the course is suited to those who enjoy walking during their game.

Negril Hills’ charming layout includes interesting features such as marshlands, tricky greens, sloping fairways and dogleg holes. Located close to the worldfamous Seven Mile Beach, this unique course is one of Jamaica’s most distinctive.

Fax: 876-957-3890 E-mail: sbcsav@cwjamaica.com Website: www.negrilhillsgolfclub.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

BLUE

6333

Not Rated (N/R) N/R

WHITE

5798

N/R

N/R

RED

5036

N/R

N/R

FGB

41

Kingston

Courses

42

Caymanas

Golf & Country Club

43

Tournaments Hosted: Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships Jamaica Open Red Stripe Invitational Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf

Caymanas Golf & Country Club St. Catherine, Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 746-9772-4 Fax: (876) 746-9777

Caymanas Golf & Country Club In the foothills of St. Catherine lies the Caymanas Golf & Country Club, a picturesque parkland style course.

Caymanas first opened in 1957 and was designed by Howard Watson of Canadian Golf Landscaping Limited.

Caymanas is rich in vegetation, including imposing Cotton and Guango trees that stand guard over the fairways. The course features limestone formations, elevated tees and greens, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding parishes. Caymanas has played host to an impressive array of tournaments, including the JAMAICA OPEN and Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf.

Golf Course Professional: Clive Clayton

E-mail: play@caymanasgolfclub.com Website: www. caymanasgolfclub.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

BLUE TEES

6844

71.9

123

WHITE TEES 6223

69.4

118

WHITE TEES 6223

75.4

128

RED TEES

71.3

120

LADIES 5502

44

Constant Spring Golf Club

45

Tournaments Hosted: Jamaica Open Hoerman Cup Challenge

Constant Spring Golf Club Originally a nine-hole golf course, Constant Spring is characterized by narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers. Though fairly short, a combination of gullies, bunkers and ponds makes the layout challenging.

The course was designed by Stanley Thompson, a renowned Scottish-Canadian Golf Course Architect and has hosted several prestigious events, including the JAMAICA OPEN. Golf Professional: Jason Lopez

Constant Spring Golf Club Constant Spring Road, Kingston Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 924-1610 Fax: (876) 931-7741 E-mail: csgc@cwjamaica.com Web: www.constantspringgolfclub.com

Tee

Yardage

Course Ratings

Slope Rating

BACK

6197

70.6

129

WHITE

5866

69.1

129

FRONT

5205

71.2

124

46

Jamaican Golf on the

International Stage American Film Celebrities Participate in Annie’s Revenge David Arquette—actor and director, Michael Botti–producer, and John Swetnam—writer and producer, topped the list of celebrities set to participate in the Jamaica Invitational ProAm “Annie’s Revenge”. Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum was the presenting sponsor of the tournament, which ran from October 29 – November 2, 2014. The event, under the auspices and title sponsorship of the Jamaica Tourist Board, is now in its ninth year.

Annie’s Revenge teed off on Cinnamon Hill and White Witch, which are among Jamaica’s best championship courses. This invitational is seen by many golfers as the best Pro-Am in the Caribbean and is played over 54 holes, with teams of 4 amateurs and 1 professional golfer vying for the Jamaica Pro-Am Championship trophy.

Annie’s Revenge is administered by The Golf Connection LLC and apart from exciting rounds of golf, participants enjoy teegifts and various functions, along with spectacular prizes. The official host resort sponsor is Iberostar. Other sponsors include Jamaica Tours Limited, ground transportation sponsor, Chukka Caribbean Adventures—tour sponsor, Bridgestone Golf—official ball sponsor, among others.

The winning Blue Hills Country Club team from Kansas City, Missouri made history by capturing the Overall Champions title in 2012 and 2013. The Emerald Dunes Golf Club of West Palm Beach, Florida, headed by golf professional, Rob Corcoran, emerged the champion this year.

Forest Heights Country Club #2 of Georgia, led by golf professional Andrew Freeman, topped Flight B and in Flight C, the Constant Spring Golf Club team—with golf professional Jason Lopez— won over Country Club of Miami (Golf Professional - Peter Horrobin) by matching cards as both teams had the same score.

The OCEAN Style Celebrity Golf Weekend This celebrity tournament forms part of Ocean Style’s Fashion Showcase Weekend 2014, which was held on October 24 and 25 in Montego Bay, Jamaica at the White Witch and Cinnamon Hill Golf courses, which feature two of the island’s most challenging layouts.

The tournament forms part of the Fashion Showcase Weekend, which included a special appearance by Maurice Allen, PGA Professional and Guinness World Record Holder. Allen conducted two well-received clinics and demonstrations at the Cinnamon Hill and Constant Spring Golf Clubs prior to the tournament.

The format for the tourney included an individual Stableford and a 4-man Scramble with Stableford scoring. This year’s prizes include weekends for two, luxury watches and golf equipment. A US$1 Million Hole in One Prize was also up for grabs. Participants enjoyed the affiliated party at the Rose Hall Great House and the Fashion Showcase at the Iberostar Rose Hall Resort.

OCEAN Style magazine, launched in 2004 is a travel, fashion and lifestyle publication that features Caribbean celebrities.

The annual Fashion Showcase has highlighted world-famous designers, including Anya Ayoung-Chee, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. The annual Celebrity Golf Tournament is no less popular, with various celebrities and professional athletes participating each year.

Proceeds from the tournament will assist the Barrett Town AllAge School.

47

Jamaica

to host prestigious regional event at

Half Moon & Cinnamon Hill In 1956, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago competed in what would become today’s Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships.

Puerto Rico was invited to compete in 1957, and subsequently, invitations were issued to other islands. By 1987, the Caribbean Golf Association was formed and instituted as the governing body for golf in the region.

Over the years, the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships has grown to include ten (10) member countries that participate annually under the auspices of the Caribbean Golf Association.

Jamaica last hosted the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships in 2006 and the 2015 competition will unfold on the Half Moon & Cinnamon Hill Golf courses in Montego Bay from July 26 – August 1. The field will comprise of 130 top-ranked amateur golfers, competing in five categories, as well as vying for the Arthur Ziadie overall team trophy.

The Jamaica Golf Association is already in tournament management mode and will be doing everything to ensure that the Championships run smoothly and that Jamaica’s reputation for outstanding hospitality is enjoyed by all the golfers set to compete in 2015.

48 Below: Justin Burrowes and Kei Harris entered the 10th Annual Optimist International Tournament of Champions held in Florida in November.

Justin came 5th in the 11-13 age group boys. Kei T25(th) in the 14-18 age group girls.

Inaugural

Summer Camp a Success!

This past summer saw the inaugural Jamaica Golf Association Junior Golf Summer Sleepover Camp taking flight. The camp was held during August and ten (10) children were in attendance—three girls and seven boys ranging from ages 7 to 18.

The participants were from both Kingston and Montego Bay. Spencer Edwards, Byron Bernard and Sebert Walker were the Professionals who taught the campers.

Each child had an individual lesson with Spencer (Director of Golf, Half Moon), where they were videotaped and the mechanics of their swing analyzed.

Each morning started with a talk from one of the presenters, then the children were divided into groups for short game or swing lessons, and switched after the break. Each afternoon, mini tournaments were conducted in a different format.

The final day of camp was Tournament Day for the students. In the morning, they played in a short game competition. A five-hole and nine-hole tournament took place in the afternoon. (The children were grouped according to skill level). On the final day, the parents came out to watch the children during the tournament and also attended the prize giving.

The camp was organized of Michele Gabay, Lisa Lindo, and Alison Reid. A Junior Tournament Series will get underway at the end of October and the Junior Cup early in 2015.

The older group of juniors, under the coaching of Jason Lopez, have developed their skills and have been competing in local and international events. In November, Justin Burrowes and Kei Harris entered the 10th Annual Optimist International Tournament of Champions held in Florida. Justin placed 5th in the 11-13 age group for boys and Kei finished tied in 25th place in the 14-18 age group for girls.

Buccaneers

49

for Charity

Below: Diahann Guy-Shepherd of Supreme Ventures and Michael Wong (left) of Laws Street Trade Training Centre admiring the perpetual trophy with Peter Chin (Captain of the Buccaneer Club & President, Alliance Investment Management Ltd.) and Rory Jardine (Member, Buccaneer Club)and at the press launch of the Alliance Memorial Golf Tournament.

At Right: Nicholas McKoy (l) of Chad-Ad Distributors, Associate Sponsor or the Alliance Memorial Tournament, presenting prize to the Men’s Champion, Sean Morris.

In November, the 19th renewal of the Buccaneer Memorial Golf Tournament took place at the Caymanas Golf and Country Club. The year 2014 marked the 7th instance that Alliance Investment Management Limited has been the title sponsor.

The Memorial continues to be one of the most popular events on Jamaica’s golf calendar and regularly attracts in excess of 120 players.

Due to the success of the 2013 Tournament, the club was able to donate Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800,000.00) to the Laws Street Trade Training Centre, their adopted charity. This year, the organizers raised one million dollars, which will again be donated to the Laws Street Trade Training Centre.

This institution provides skills training to residents in the Central Kingston area. Training includes baking, sewing, cooking and introduction to computer basics.

Each fortnight, the Centre provides a meal and care packages of food and toiletries to the elderly and indigent of the Downtown area, whose numbers sometimes exceed 300. The Centre also hosts a highly-anticipated annual Christmas Treat for the same persons.

The Tournament is sanctioned by the Jamaica Golf Association and is also a qualifying event for players to earn points on the JGA’s Order of Merit. The format is a 36-hole stroke play competition over two days and a one day 18-hole individual Stableford competition over the same period. Professional golfers are also included in the tournament.

50

The acronym SANTA means, “Seeing a Need…Taking Action”.

This year, SANTA was held over two days at the Constant Spring Golf Club in early December and featured an adult and junior competition in various categories. The tournament was again held under the distinguished patronage of The British High Commissioner, Mr. David Fitton.

SANTA is Jamaica’s biggest amateur golf tournament and is among the largest supporter of multiple charities. Last year, the event saw a full field of adult and junior golfers, with entrants fighting to book tee times up to the morning of the tournament. The organizing committee attracted a bumper crowd for SANTA 2014. Junior golf participation was expanded with the addition of a dedicated day for young golfers.

SANTA is a premier marketing opportunity.

Sponsors have the unique opportunity to promote their products and services to an elite group, in a fun and attractive setting.

The committee built on last year’s media coverage and special “outside broadcast” that enabled the tournament and its sponsors to get island-wide publicity, not to mention worldwide coverage over the internet!

SANTA is renowned for its great tee gifts, wealth of prizes and good entertainment, and these, of course, continued. But most impotantly, SANTA is a charitable golf tournament.

A host of organizations are given assistance, according to their needs. Among these are the SOS Children’s Village, Bustamante Hospital for Children, the National Chest Hospital and St. Pius X Evening Institute. The event was started in 2001 and is one of the most popular on the golfing calendar, with over 144 participants competing. To date, SANTA has donated over $24,000,000.00 in time, talent and treasure to 15 different charities.

Last year, the tournament raised $1.9 million for charity, and the planning team hopes to increase this amount considerably. Sponsors were recognized for their contributions, and the largest sponsors helped present cheques to the charities. SANTA 2014 represents a winning combination of sport, charity, youth, marketing and fun.