ParGolf Magazine (May 2015)

www.pargolfmagazine.com

MAY 2015

IED ‘N R

’

T

BRING THIS ISSUE TO LIFE! LOOK FOR THE EFX ICON INSIDE

TNT T

DAVE PELZ SHORT GAME GURU

ESTE D

PING G30 DRIVER

PALM GARDEN SIX-PACK

KELLY TAN IN HOT PURSUIT

PUT T POULTER POUL POU LLT TER PERFECT NEW PRODUCTS!

Cobra Fly-Z Irons > OnOff Red Driver & Forged Irons > Ping G30 Pink Driver > SeeMore Giant FGP Putter > Mitsubishi Rayon Shafts > Aldila Shafts > Fujikura Shafts

Cover.May15.indd 1

West Malaysia RM10.90 East Malaysia RM11.90 S’pore/Brunei S$7.90 Thailand THB150

4/24/15 9:58 AM

Lianbee - Jeco (M) Sdn Bhd (532361-D)

w w w. b r a u n b u ff e l . c o m Kuala Lumpur • Selangor • Penang • Melaka • Johor • Sabah | For enquiry: 603 4295 8879

Lianbee - Jeco (M) Sdn Bhd (532361-D)

w w w. b r a u n b u ff e l . c o m Kuala Lumpur • Selangor • Penang • Melaka • Johor • Sabah | For enquiry: 603 4295 8879

with ParGolf – anytime, anywhere!

Curr ent Issue

O

US$2nly .99!

AT&T

Don’t be the odd one out. Be in the know about all things golf with ParGolf Magazine – also available online via

and

!

Load it onto your tablet and smartphone today, and sink your teeth into ParGolf’s fresh, stirring golf bites!

004•ParGolfAppStore.May15.indd 4

4/24/15 10:00 AM

•MSTGolf.OnOff.May15.indd 105

4/8/15 3:45 PM

powered by

G O L F A N D T R AV E L

www.papagolf.net

IT'S EASY TO BOOK YOUR TEE TIME ONLINE! 113•Ad.Papagolf.Mar15.indd 113

2/27/15 2:31 PM

DIALED IN WEIGHTING THAT DIALS UP DISTANCE. We equipped the new Fly-Z Driver with back CG Zone technology, pushing the center of gravity lower and farther back than we ever have before. Making it our longest, most forgiving driver yet.

COBRA Golf available at selected authorized dealers’ stores Desa Golf House Sdn Bhd GHL Sales & Services Trading Glovetech Golf Enterprise LKT Sports Academy

| | | |

03-7982 8631 012-776 6500 06-2866 8570 016-886 8332

LT Sports Equipment MST Golf Sdn Bhd Pan-West (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd Perfect Distance

| | | |

013-834 5956 03-5566 8666 03-5569 7788 019-953 0686

RGT Technology Sdn Bhd | 019-953 0686 Royal Sporting House (Golf House) | 03-5123 2668 VK Enterprise | 03-2691 6612

Discover distance for your swing cobragolf.com/fly-z

GAME CHANGED

facebook.com/COBRA

Contents MAY 2015 ● www.pargolfmagazine.com

22 DAVE PELZ, SHORT GAME GURU

FEATURES 22

Dave Pelz

26

Malaysian Amateur Open

30

MPI Saujana Amateur Championship

32

Danthai Boonma

38

Kelly Tan & CIMB

44

Tried 'N' Tested: Ping G30 Driver

60

Palm Garden Golf Club

72

Pattaya, Thailand

76

Pattaya Golf

Short Game Guru A True Malaysian Icon Return To The Cobra Teen Thai-tan

In Hot Pursuit High Marks

The Six Pack

City of Variety

New Kids On The Block

PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB'S 60 SIX PACK

008,010,012•Contents.May15.indd 8

4/23/15 7:24 PM

XXIO GWP AD-(ParGolf)_210x285.pdf 1 4/8/2015 10:07:43 AM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Contents MAY 2015 ● www.pargolfmagazine.com

38 KELLY TAN & CIMB: IN HOT PURSUIT

INSTRUCTIONS & GOLF TIPS 64

Health Chat With Dr Glenn Cameron

65

Learn From The Pros: Ian Poulter

68

Play Your Best Golf Now With Andrew Myles

70

Golf Foreladies With Kuriko Tsukiyama

Performance Golf

My Fave Putting Aids Chipping On The Up Sand Saver

EVENTS 102 World Amateur Inter-Team Golf Championship 103 Liberty Cup – Siem Reap

COLUMNS 36 42 52 55 58 85 87

Reading The Lines Bunker Mentality Nick's Knacks Pass Me The Soap Almost OB Asian Angles Two Sen Worth

008,010,012•Contents.May15.indd 10

TRIED 'N' TESTED: PING G30 DRIVER

44

4/23/15 7:24 PM

Contents MAY 2015 ● www.pargolfmagazine.com

DEPARTMENTS 14 16 18 20 46 54 80 80 81 82 86 88 93 94 96 100 104 106 110 112

Editorial Line-Up Freeze Frame First Tee In The Bag Essentials The Golf Scene Subscription Calendar Of Events Around Asia Pro News Young Guns Pot Shots Time Zone Style Lounge Cars + Pars In The Spotlight Golf Course Directory Final Tee Quick 18

72 PATTAYA, CITY OF VARIETY

32 DANTHAI BOONMA, THE TEEN THAI-TAN

008,010,012•Contents.May15.indd 12

4/23/15 7:24 PM

ZStar GWP Ad_FA-OL-(ParGolf)210x285.pdf 1 4/8/2015 11:12:30 AM

C

Koumei Oda M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

*G

ift

Pa ck

.

Gift packed with 2 dozen of Z-Star & Z-Star XV golf balls. Offer valid while stocks last!

from the pargolf team The Winners Take It All Hey there, golf fans! First up, congratulations to all winners of the Malaysian Golf Awards! To every single person who joined us on April 24 at Putrajaya Marriott to celebrate the best of the best in Malaysian golf, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

So, are you ready for another golf-alicious edition of your favorite golf read? Excellent! ‘Cos here it comes, jam-packed with all kinds of golfy-goodness!

We kick off our rousing May issue with an engrossing interview with one of golf’s legendary coaches, Mister Dave Pelz. Bringing together his expertise as a NASA research scientist and his affinity for golf, the man’s a master at the art of the short game – wiggle your way into the psyche of the ‘Short Game Guru’ on page 22.

A few pages in, welcome the newest up-andcoming Thai teenager who is making huge waves on the Asian golf scene – Danthai Boonma. Check out our interview with the affable young man and get to know him just a wee bit better – story on page 32.

Then it’s time for our very own LPGA Tour pro Kelly Tan to take centre-stage. The Johorian chats about her latest gig as the first CIMB Golf Ambassador, and talks about her new partnership with the financial giant, life on tour, long-term goals and her support system that keeps her motivated – all on page 38.

A little later, join Loo Keng Yip as he revisits Palm Garden Golf Club, and uncovers one of its most

appealing assets, the six-pack – apart, of course, from the sheer splendour of the course. Flip to page 60 and read all about it.

Oh but before that, we have something for all you equipment fiends, so listen up. Nick Goh puts the new Ping G30 Driver to the test, along with a host of other eager golfers. How did the driver fare on the testers’ personal score sheet? Hot mess or ‘High Marks’?

Find out on ‘Tried N Tested’, page 44.

And if your putting skills keep letting you down, we’ve got just what you need. English star Ian Poulter shares his favourite putting aids – turn to page 65.

For those of you who absolutely relish a generous helping of golf during your travels, Pattaya beckons.

Check out some of the enchanting, must-do features of the tourist hotspot, and brace yourself for two of the Thai city’s newest courses – Waterside Course of Siam Country Club and Jungle Course of Wangjuntr Golf Park – stories on page 72 and 76 respectively.

All this and much, much more, so get right to it, folks!

Oh, and don’t forget to stay hydrated on the course!

FACTS & STATS

PLAYER STATISTICS FROM THE 2015 MASTERS AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL Greens In Regulation 1.

Ian Poulter 2.

Jordan Spieth Justin Rose 4.

Rory Mcilroy 5.

Henrik Stenson Putting Average 1.

Dustin Johnson Steve Stricker 3.

Jordan Spieth 4.

Matt Kuchar 5.

Cameron Tringale

81.94% 75.00% 75.00% 73.61% 72.22% 1.47 1.47 1.50 1.53 1.54

Driving 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Average Dustin Johnson Jason Day Jimmy Walker Adam Scott Bubba Watson

Driving Accuracy 1.

Mark O'Meara Ryan Moore Kevin Streelman 4.

Henrik Stenson Bill Haas

315.50y 307.88y 302.12y 299.75y 299.62y 85.71% 85.71% 85.71% 80.36% 80.36%

DON'T BE A STRANGER! Think you can write golf? Or feel a need to rant about the game? Here's your chance to do just that!

Submit your work or simply drop us an email at info@pargolfmagazine.com * All material published in ParGolf becomes the sole intellectual property of Write Track Publishing & Communications Sdn. Bhd.

14

ParGolf MAY 2015

014•Editorial.May15.indd 14

4/24/15 9:42 AM

(22375-W)

w w w. p a r g o l f m a g a z i n e . c o m

PUBLISHER SUZANNAH GUN PALMER sue@pargolfmagazine.com EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR JONATHAN E. PONNIAH jonathan@pargolfmagazine.com ASSISTANT EDITOR SYAMA RAMASAMY syama@pargolfmagazine.com CONTRIBUTORS KP WARAN, MIKE WILSON, MELVIN POI, DAVID BOWDEN, PETE WONG, STANLEY SAW, DR. GLENN CAMERON, LOO KENG YIP, NATHAN HAUSER, K.H. WAN, CHUAH CHOO CHIANG, IDA FAHANY, NICK GOH CONTRIBUTING PROFESSIONALS DANNY CHIA, STEVEN GIULIANO, KURIKO TSUKIYAMA, ANDREW MYLES STUDIO ART DIRECTOR CHEE CHIN MIN chinmin@pargolfmagazine.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER R. SUJATHA MALAR sujatha@pargolfmagazine.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER KHAIRUL ADNI ABD RANI khairul@pargolfmagazine.com PHOTOGRAPHIC CONSULTANT LOO KENG YIP (Light & Sound Advertising Photography) CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER TOHA DOL MARKETING & ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TERRENCE LOH terrence@pargolfmagazine.com ASST. MARKETING & JOSHUA E. RODRIGUES SALES MANAGER joshua@pargolfmagazine.com SENIOR EXECUTIVE ASRI JAAFAR (SUBSCRIPTION & EVENTS) asri@pargolfmagazine.com EVENTS EVENTS MANAGER GURDEV SINGH gurdev@pargolfmagazine.com EVENTS ASSISTANT HANIZAM HAIZI nizam@pargolfmagazine.com OPERATIONS P.A. & ADMIN. MANAGER LINDA JOSEPH CONSULTANT DATO’ RA. PARAM, DIMP, AMP PRINTER WISE ORGANISATION (M) SDN BHD No. 5, Jalan Industri PBP 11, Taman Industri Pusat Bandar Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

Tel: 03-5891 1899 Fax: 03-5891 7099 DISTRIBUTORS MALAYSIA MPH DISTRIBUTORS SDN BHD SINGAPORE ALLSCRIPT ESTABLISHMENT (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD PHOTO AGENCY GETTY IMAGES GENERAL ENQUIRIES/ 603-7987 1889 / info@pargolfmagazine.com ADVERTISING SUBSCRIPTION AND subscription@pargolfmagazine.com BACK ISSUES ENQUIRIES

PARGOLF IS AVAILABLE ON/AT

PARGOLF IS DISTRIBUTED WORLDWIDE OFFICIALLY BY

Priority Banking

Write Track Publishing & Communications Sdn Bhd (352719-P)

No. KA3-1-6, Kuchai Avenue, No. 39, Jalan Kuchai Maju 13, Kuchai Entrepreneurs Park, Off Jalan Kuchai Lama, 58200 Kuala Lumpur.

T 603-7987 1889

F 603-7983 9882

E info@pargolfmagazine.com ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Nothing in this magazine may be reprinted or reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the Publisher.

NOTE The Publisher cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information as stated in any advertising material.

016•LineUp.May15.indd 16

4/24/15 10:00 AM

•MST.GIII.May15.indd 105

4/17/15 4:49 PM

FREEZE FRAME

The New

©Andrew Redington/Getty Images

MASTER

18

Augusta, Georgia, April 12: Jordan Spieth announced his arrival as a Major force with a stunning victory in the Masters at Augusta National.

The 21-year-old Texan carded rounds of 64, 66, 70 and 70 to finish with a total of 18-under-par 270, tieing the Masters record set by Woods in 1997. Spieth also set a new record for most birdies at the Masters with 28, bettering Phil Mickelson’s old mark of 25 from 2001.

“To join Masters history and put my name on that trophy and have this jacket forever, it's something that I can't fathom right now," said Spieth, who is the second youngest owner of the Green Jacket next to Woods by just five months.

“This is the ultimate goal of my golf life.”

ParGolf MAY JANUARY 2015 2015

018•FreezeFrame.May15.indd 18

4/24/15 9:42 AM

Sole Distributor: WINSTON’S SDN BHD (15202-W) 36, Jln Pemberita U1/49, Temasya Industrial Park, Seksyen U1, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

Tel: 03-5569 2623 Fax: 03-5569 2639 Email: winstons@wingolf.com.my

019•Ad.PING.May15.indd 19

4/24/15 10:00 AM

FIRST TEE

Six years ago on Easter Sunday, Brittany Lincicome made eagle at the last hole to win the Kraft Nabisco Championship by one shot, hitting a hybrid from 210 yards that stopped six feet from the flag.

This year, as the LPGA’s first Major of the year celebrated a new sponsor with a new name, the ANA Inspiration, the long-hitting American repeated the Easter Sunday eagle at the par five 18th of the Rancho Mirage course – this time

“Lo and behold, in 2009 I won on Easter Sunday and today is Easter Sunday, so it’s pretty crazy to think about!”

BRITTANY LINCICOME

with a five-iron from 190 yards that set up a 10-foot putt.

However, Lincicome needed extra time to claim her second Major, edging fellow American Stacy Lewis with a par

©David Cannon/Getty Images

Easter ecstasy for Lincicome

on the third playoff hole after they had tied on nine-under-par in regulation.

“To make eagle on any hole is pretty incredible and then to do it on Sunday at a Major, at this Major where I did it in 2009, is really surreal,” said Lincicome. “If you would have bet me all the money in the world, if I went back to the fairway now I probably couldn’t hit that shot again. Somebody was looking out for me today.”

The win ended a four-year title drought for Lincicome, who was joined for the traditional leap into Poppy’s Pond by her fiancé Dewald, father Tom and caddie Missy.

“We’ve been close so many times and it’s just one of those things where you don’t let it get to you. We’ll just keep feeding from it and something

good is going to happen,” said a visibly emotional Lincicome after her sixth LPGA victory.

“Lo and behold, in 2009 I won on Easter Sunday and today is Easter Sunday, so it’s pretty crazy to think about!”

But it almost did not happen as Lewis could have won it in regulation and in the playoff. At the 72nd hole, Lewis missed a birdie putt from 10 feet. In the playoff, also at the 18th, the former World No 1 saw putts from 10 and seven feet somehow stay out despite looking like they were going to drop. She got an unlucky break on the third extra when her second shot found a divot and she left her approach short, failing to save par from 10 feet.

Talk about an Easter miracle.

20

©David Cannon/Getty Images

©Scott Halleran/Getty Images

Ko ties Sorenstam’s record Lydia Ko may not have contended in the year’s first Major but she still had everyone buzzing en route to a joint 51st place finish – her first round 71 was her 29th consecutive sub-par round on the LPGA Tour and tied the record set by legendary Swede Annika Sorenstam in 2004.

But it took some doing and showed the amazing mental strength of the 17-year-old Kiwi. Her driver was not working well and kept getting her into some tight spots, Ko made the turn at one-over-par and needed to play the last nine in two-under to match the record.

The World No 1 picked up the first of two birdies early on and then got into trouble at the par-four 7th, her 16th hole of the day having started on the 10th tee. Her drive wound up in the trees leaving her a small opening but that was all she needed – punching a low hook that found the putting surface. She birdied the next hole, a par three, after stiffing her tee shot to tap-in range and parred home to tie the record.

Ko shot 73 the next day to miss out on setting a new record.

ParGolf MAY 2015

020-021•FirstTee.May15.indd 20

4/23/15 2:26 PM

To put in proper perspective the magnitude of Jordan Spieth’s maiden Major win in the Masters, here are some of the facts and stats from the 21-year-old Texan’s amazing week at Augusta National: • Spieth’s 72-hole total of 18-underpar 270 tied the Masters record set

by Woods in 1997.

• Spieth set a new Masters record with his 54-hole score of 200, one shot better than Woods in 1997 and Raymond Floyd in 1976.

• Spieth also set a new Masters record with his 36-hole score of 130, one better than Floyd in 1976.

• Spieth made the most birdies by any player at the Masters with 28, bettering Phil Mickelson’s 25 in 2001.

• At 21 years, 8 months and 16 days, Spieth is the second youngest winner of the Masters next to Woods (1997 – 21 years, 3 months, 14 days).

• Spieth became the fifth wire-towire winner at the Masters, joining

©Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Super Spieth

“It’s the most incredible week of my life. This is as great as it gets in our sport. It’s a dream come true for me.”

JORDAN SPIETH

•

Craig Wood (1941), Arnold Palmer (1960), Jack Nicklaus (1972) and Raymond Floyd (1976).

Following his birdie at the par-five 15th in the final round, Spieth became the first player to reach 19-under at any point at the Masters.

•

•

pieth is the first player to begin S his Masters career with eight straight par or better rounds.

Spieth tied the lowest opening 36-hole score in a Major, joining Martin Kaymer (2014 US Open), Brandt Snedeker (2012 Open) and Nick Faldo (1992 Open).

©Steve Munday/Getty Images

©Stanley Chou/Getty Images

Thai spice at Arnie's event Thai star Kiradech Aphibarnrat lived a childhood dream as he made full use of an invitation to the Arnold Palmer Invitational with an impressive joint sixth finish.

As American fans twisted their tongues trying to pronounce his name, the burly Thai caught fire over the weekend with rounds of 65 and 69 to finish on 13-under-par at Bay Hill in Orlando – six shots behind winner Matt Every.

Kiradech’s final round included two eagles, which had the galleries appreciating why the Thai is nicknamed ‘Asia’s John Daly’.

“I’m really proud of what I did this week, I played in quite a few tournaments in the United States last year, made a lot of cuts but didn’t finish high on the leaderboard,” said Kiradech, who won the 2013 Maybank Malaysian Open at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC).

Kiradech’s best finish in a PGA Tour event came on Malaysian soil when he tied for third at the CIMB Classic last October, also at KLGCC’s West Course. He recently got engaged to long-time girlfriend Thanyarat Chaiyarat.

FAST FACT

Texas is the American state that has produced the most Masters champions, with 13 wins from nine players – the latest being Jordan Spieth. Before Spieth, the last Texas native to win the Masters was Ben Crenshaw in 1995.

Masters Winners From Texas: Byron Nelson (1937, 1942), Ralph Guldahl (1939), Jimmy Demaret (1940, 1947, 1950), Ben Hogan (1951, 1953), Jack Burke (1956), Charles Coody (1971), Ben Crenshaw (1984, 1995), Jordan Spieth (2015).

ParGolf MAY 2015

020-021•FirstTee.May15.indd 21

21

4/23/15 2:26 PM

DAVE PELZ

SHORT GAME

GURU

A former NASA scientist who lost 22 times to Jack Nicklaus as an amateur, Dave Pelz is the world’s most influential short game coach

BY TONY DEAR

22

putter featuring two white alignment discs, which he licensed to Odyssey Golf. The 2-Ball putter would go on to become the world’s best-selling putter model.

How would you describe your philosophy to teaching?

Dave Pelz (DP): Many teaching pros say their students should basically have one swing. I disagree with that. There are three swings – or rather three parts of the game – that require very different actions. There’s the power swing when you are trying to maximise the distance you hit each club. There’s the short game in which you are minimising the distance each club goes. And then there is the putting stroke, which requires almost no power. Whether you’re trying to produce power or finesse, you require different actions.

Who have been your greatest influences and why?

DP: My physics professor at Indiana University told me if I wanted to advance the state of any field or discipline I shouldn’t read the books, but do my own thinking and not have my thoughts influenced or limited by current thinking. There’s a lot of science involved in what I do, of course, but a lot of experimentation too. My teaching is based on my research and testing.

How complicated is the short game and are you still learning?

DP: Short game swings are much easier to execute than power swings. There’s much less that can go wrong. You don’t need to be as flexible or strong to hit a chip or pitch shot than a full-blooded drive. That said, there is a much larger variety of short game shots. So while it’s not very demanding on your body, your brain certainly needs to be in tune. And yes, I’m still learning. It’s a neverending science. I’m 74 and learn something new about the short game almost every day.

What was the last thing you learnt?

DP: I’m working on trying to develop a technique to produce very short shots, less than 10 yards, but with maximum backspin. I haven’t quite got there yet, but every day I get a little closer.

Pelz’s approach is based purely on his own research

©PelzGolf

F

or most people, a golf scholarship is the first step towards fame and fortune on the PGA Tour. For Dave Pelz, however, playing on the golf team at the University of Indiana led to four years of frustration. In a case of ultimate bad timing, Pelz’s emergence onto the collegiate amateur scene in the late 50s coincided with that of one Jack Nicklaus. During his time on the school team, Pelz played Nicklaus on 22 occasions and lost each and every time.

Although Pelz was a good golfer, the frequent drubbings at the paws of the Golden Bear quickly convinced him a career in aeronautics was a far more realistic goal than trying to hit the big time on tour. And so in the early 60s, after graduating with a physics degree, Pelz accepted a position at the Goddard Space Flight Centre conducting research on the atmosphere of the earth and other planets in the solar system for NASA. One could be forgiven for thinking it was the opportunity to apply science to the art of chipping and putting that led Pelz to specialise in the short game; in fact, it was his steadfast refusal to give up on his own game that drove him back to golf. After leaving NASA in 1976, he decided to analyse the game he loved. He found some 65 per cent of shots were played within 100 yards of the green. It would form the start of a new career as a short game coach. His findings led to coaching work with players like Phil Mickelson and Colin Montgomerie, the writing of a bestselling book, The Short Game Bible, and the development of a unique

In the short game, what is the most important thing to get right?

DP: A good 8-iron swing usually results in a good 8-iron shot. With the short game, you can execute the shot exactly

ParGolf MAY 2015

022-025•DavePelz.May15.indd 22

4/24/15 10:00 AM

©PelzGolf

“I’m working on a technique that produces shots of under 10 yards, but with maximum backspin. I haven’t quite got there yet, but every day I get a little closer.”

ParGolf MAY 2015

022-025•DavePelz.May15.indd 23

23

4/24/15 10:00 AM

DAVE PELZ Phil Mickelson has the best short game but is not the most talented, believes Pelz

“When a player like Phil Mickelson has a great short game, pundits say he has ‘great hands’, but the average player has a swing that’s too handsy to control short shots.” as you planned but if you read the lie, the slopes, the grain, the firmness or slope of the green wrong, the shot can end up very badly. You need to practise reading how shots react on the green, shots from different lies, and hitting the ball on different trajectories with different spin.

What is the coaching cliché you find most destructive?

DP: I think the term ‘great hands’ is vastly overused and overrated. If a player has a great short game, like Phil Mickelson or Seve Ballesteros, the TV folk invariably say he has great hands.

But average golfers have swings that are too handsy to control short shots.

Where does touch come from?

DP: Great touch comes largely from teaching the brain what is going to happen before it happens, and by getting rid of rapid and strong hand action. The hands and fingers are greatly influenced by adrenaline. That inserts a variable that makes 24

consistency very difficult. To develop great touch you need to hit the shot so often you know what to expect. That may mean hitting a shot 20,000 times.

Some players are blessed with more touch than others obviously, but really it takes a lot of time and work.

How important is the body in the short game?

DP: Less so than in the full swing, but more than people realise. On a 100-yard pitch shot, say, it is important that your body and arm swing are synchronised. It can’t be just an arm swing.

What is the single most important attribute for a great short game?

DP: Having the talent to make the correct practice swing for the shot you’re playing, then repeating that practice stroke on the real shot under pressure.

What short game swing flaw do you see most often among top players?

DP: The pros practise so much they

tend to get away with technical flaws.

But I’d say some have difficulty committing to the amount of backspin they want to put on the ball.

Who has been the most naturally gifted player you have worked with?

DP: You’re probably thinking it would be Phil Mickelson, but actually I’d say Gary Hallberg or Tom Purtzer. Don’t get me wrong, Phil has plenty of athletic ability, but Gary and Tom have more and could have excelled at whichever sport they played. They were so talented as young golfers that they never really needed to develop the techniques or work ethic needed to become superstars. I think if they had genuinely loved practising and committed to it, they could have been among the greatest players of all time, if not the greatest.

At the other end, Tom Kite had much less natural athleticism. He was a self-made man, an incredible grinder who ended up with a Hall of Fame career.

ParGolf MAY 2015

022-025•DavePelz.May15.indd 24

4/24/15 10:00 AM

WHO IS THE BEST? WH

Long-term pupil Vijay Singh attributed his 1999 Masters victory to a Pelz putting tip

The world’s most famous golf coach David Leadbetter highlights the players with the most impressive games around the green.

LUKE DONALD Luke seems to enjoy the best stats week in week out and it has enabled him to remain near the top without hitting the ball that well in the past couple of years as he has made swing changes.

We can all learn from the smoothness of his motion; there is no rush to it. Look at the way he sets up to the putt – it is very concise and precise. His routine is also nice and simple so he can repeat it easily.

Amateurs rarely have a routine they stick to; sometimes it’s one look at the hole, sometimes it’s six. Luke does the same simple thing every time.

It all produces a consistent stroke that consistently gets results.

He’s good at reading the line and adept at allying that to the needed pace. This is something you absolutely must do; get the pace right for the line you have chosen. I see lots of golfers failing to do that.

Of the players you’ve worked with, who do you think has, or has had, the best short game?

DP: That would be Mickelson. He has by far the best touch with the greatest range of shots, and can play them all under pressure with no fear. He has the best attitude, and a great work ethic.

He owns his short game because he works so hard at it.

Is there any short game coaching you vehemently disagree with?

DP: Oh sure. For example Phil usually cocks his wrists immediately then holds the face open through impact. Steve Stricker uses a limited wrist-cock for the same shots. And they both have superb short games. Also Paul Azinger and others with unconventional grips have developed their own styles and produced very viable short games. So we have to teach each player according to their unique bodies, capabilities and styles. There’s more than one way to swing a wedge, so I disagree with those who say there is only one method. PG

BUNKER PLAY BRETT RUMFORD Brett has that ability to make the most precise contact that splashes the ball out with tremendous control and accuracy. It even sounds great.

At set-up he ‘sits’ into his left knee – the knee sits very much towards the target and flexes outward. Brett anchors himself around the left knee just as Seve used to. Also great bunker players always hit bunker shots with the face wide open. They open the face and then take their grip, then add even more loft by rotating the clubface open and maintaining that through the shot. If you can do that you can use the bounce properly – rather than the leading edge as many golfers do.

CHIPPING HIPPING STEVE STRICKER CKER Most people would automatically look to Phil Mickelson for this section but while he is a magician with a wedge, his method is hard to copy for amateurs. His philosophy is ‘hinge and hold’ and that is very difficult to achieve consistently.

I would instead look to someone like Steve Stricker. He has a deadhanded type of motion with not a lot of wrist action. For most it is a sound way of approaching wedge play. Many people don’t have control over their hands, so Stricker’s method is better.

His arms and his chest work together beautifully; it is almost as if he has a football stuck between his elbows – they stay so quiet – and he just turns back and through.

The speed of his rotation controls how far the shot goes, rather than how much set he has in his wrists and so on. That method is much easier to get consistent.

PITCHING ZACH JOHNSON NSON Zach Johnson won his Major at Augusta because he was so good around 100 yards and in. He has a strong grip and once again, like Stricker, he has very little hand action in the swing, which I am a big fan of.

It is very much a body-controlled release where he takes that strong grip, swings back and then turns through. There is very little handsand-arms about the action. Zach doesn’t have any flip through impact – his strong body turn controls the face and that gives him great consistency, not least in terms of distance control.

It takes a bit of skill to do that but if you watch him and manage to work on that kind of ‘passive hands’ approach, where you are just turning your body through the shot and collecting the ball as you do so, you will reap rewards with both accuracy and distance control.

Syndicated article from Bauer Media UK

PUTTING

ParGolf MAY 2015

022-025•DavePelz.May15.indd 25

25

4/24/15 10:00 AM

MALAYSIAN AMATEUR OPEN

A True

Malaysian Icon

As we approach the 113th edition of the Malaysian Amateur Open in Sarawak, Jonathan Ponniah traces the history of one of the oldest golf events in the world

H

istory and heritage are things you can’t buy or create. They’re either there or they’re not.

The Malaysian Amateur Open has both and in some quantity. Dating back to 1894 – yes, you got that right, just 35 years after the British Open was founded, making it older than all the other Majors – the tournament has been staged every year since except for short breaks forced by the two World Wars.

It’s one of the oldest amateur championships in Asia, just a few years younger than the Sri Lanka Amateur Championship which was established in 1891 and the All India Amateur Championship which dates back to 1892. Indeed, even the British Amateur is not much older with its inaugural staging taking place in 1885.

Like its Sri Lankan and Indian cousins, the Malaysian Amateur Open is a mirror of the country’s colonial history. In the early days, it was known as the Straits Championship and was very much a plaything for the British

26

colonial masters.

Indeed it was a very powerful ‘colonial master’ who inaugurated the event – Major-General Sir Charles Warren, then the Commander of the Troops for the Straits Settlements.

Warren was finishing his five-year tour of duty and, being a keen sportsman, decided to leave a few sporting legacies. He donated four shields for football, rugby, hockey and golf, the last for an annual strokeplay competition between the Penang Golf Club (now defunct and not related to the current club of the same name) and the Singapore Golf Club (the precursor to Singapore Island Country Club).

The first tournament took place at Penang Golf Club and was won by the club’s captain DAM Brown, who would go on to win consecutively until 1897 and claim the Warren Shield again in 1908. Little did the likes of Warren and Brown realise then that their humble event would survive two World Wars, the demise of the British Empire and the formation of Malaysia to evolve into

one of the region’s most coveted amateur events.

The changes that followed synced closely with developments in the administration of the Straits Settlements. The tournament grew in popularity among the British gentry and began to move among the handful of clubs then available in Singapore, Penang, Selangor and Malacca. As its participants expanded to players from outside the Straits Settlements, it was renamed the Federated Malay States and Straits Settlement Championship in 1912.

World War I forced a two-year break in 1917 and 1918 and the championship’s resumption in 1919 marked the last year of the strokeplay format – following the model of the British Amateur, it switched to matchplay in 1920 preceded by two qualifying rounds which determined the top eight to play for the title.

In 1929, the Malayan Golf Association (MGA – now the Malaysian Golf Association) was formed and the

ParGolf MAY 2015

026-029•MAO.May15.indd 26

4/24/15 10:00 AM

“This is the third time that the Malaysian Amateur Open will be going to East Malaysia and the second time that it will be played at Sarawak Golf Club. This is a blue ribbon tournament and top amateurs from 17 to 20 countries will be participating. Juniors and budding golfers in the state will be able to witness top-level amateur golf and we hope that will motivate them to take up the game of golf seriously.”

ADMIRAL TAN SRI DATO’ SETIA MOHD ANWAR MOHD NOR (RTD), PRESIDENT, MALAYSIAN GOLF ASSOCIATION

©Royal Selangor Golf Club

championship was appropriately renamed the Malayan Golf Championship. A new rose bowlshaped trophy was purchased in 1931 and the Warren Shield was presented to the winning team instead.

Logistics was a major consideration in the MGA’s decision in 1940 to make the Selangor Golf Club (now the Royal Selangor Golf Club) the permanent venue. World War II saw a long hiatus, not only due to the Japanese invasion and occupation but also its effects – the club was used by the Japanese army as an arms training ground and to grow tapioca, banana and vegetables. It took close to two years after the end of the war to restore the course and the first post-war championship was staged there in 1948 – with a new challenge trophy as both the rose bowl and Warren Shield had disappeared during the war years.

In the championship’s jubilee edition in 1952, five non-Caucasians took part – a precursor to the heady sequence of events over the next few years, not only for the tournament but the country. Independence in 1957 was followed by the formation of Malaysia in 1963 and the championship became the Malaysian Amateur Open Golf Championship, as it remains till today.

The Warren Shield

©Royal Selangor Golf Club

Three-time winner MM Paterson (seated, second from left) with other participants during the 1937 Malayan Golf Championship in Singapore

Fittingly, it was in 1963 that the expatriate stranglehold on the title was ended by Darwis Deran from Perak, who beat HD Norfolk Williams in the final. Darwis would win again in 1965, beating HMV Staunton, sandwiched by Sulaiman Bluah – another Perakian – losing to JH Mitchell in the 1964 final.

The MGA changed the tournament to 72-hole strokeplay in 1966 and that has been the format since, save for 2008 when matchplay was reinstated for just ParGolf MAY 2015

026-029•MAO.May15.indd 27

27

4/24/15 10:00 AM

R. Nachimuthu ended a 12-year local drought in 1997

©Malaysian Golf Association

one year. Singapore’s Phua Thin Kiay took the first 72-hole title in 1966 and this was followed by a period of local dominance with the likes of Zainal Abidin Yusof (1968), Jalal Deran (1968, 1969), Hassan Ali (1972), Tan Yee Khan (1974), Nazamuddin Yusof (1975) and Eshak Bluah (1976, 1977) triumphing.

It was in the 1970s that the tournament began to move to other clubs as the MGA decided to rotate it among its affiliates. The tournament grew in stature and soon there was strong interest and participation from neighbouring countries, in particular Taiwan, India, Sri Lanka and Australia.

Legendary Taiwanese golfer Chen TzeMing set a course record 62 at Kelab Golf Negara Subang en route to victory in 1978 – he would go on to a successful pro career with nine titles on the Japan Golf Tour and a joint third finish in the 1985 PGA Championship at Cherry Hill.

Golfers from Down Under have been extremely successful in the last three decades – Australian winners include Stuart Bouvier (1989), Robert Allenby (1990), Shane Tait (1991), Stephen Leaney (1992), Jarrod Mosley (1996), Cameron Percy (1998), Luke Hickmott (2003), Andrew Dodt (2006), Daniel Bringolf (2011), Kevin Marques (2013) and Cory Crawford (2014).

Other prominent winners include Sri Lankan icon Nandasena Perera (1988), Singapore’s Mardan Mamat (1994),

©Malaysian Golf Association

MALAYSIAN AMATEUR OPEN

Robert Allenby won at Bukit Jambul in 1990

2009 winners Tsai Pei-Ying and Thanyakon Khrongpha

THE VENUE The 2015 Malaysian Amateur Open will be staged for the second time at Kelab Golf Sarawak, fondly known as ‘KGS’ among the local community. The club is located in the suburb of Petra Jaya, about 8km from the Kuching city centre.

The history of KGS dates back to 1985 with the opening of its first two nines, the Matang and Santubong. In 1989, the club added two more nines, Siol and Demak, to make KGS the lone 36-hole golf club in the Land of Hornbills.

28

The tournament will be played on the long and undulating Matang/Santubong course, which plays to a total distance of 6,394m from the black tees with strategically-placed hazards to test golfers’ course management skills. In 2002, the course underwent a major upgrading exercise under the supervision of Australian architect Nigel Douglas.

The Siol/Demak course is slightly shorter, demanding accuracy with the many water hazards surrounding the fairways and greens.

The pyramid-shaped clubhouse offers a wide range of facilities, along with great views of the finishing holes of the Matang/ Santubong nines.

KGS also hosted the Malaysian Amateur Open in 2009, when Thailand’s Thanyakon Khrongpa edged Malaysia’s Haziq Hamizan by one shot, while Taiwan's Tsai Pei-Ying won the first of only three ladies' titles (discontinued in 2012). www.kgswak.com

ParGolf MAY 2015

026-029•MAO.May15.indd 28

4/24/15 10:00 AM

India’s Shiv Kapur (2000) and Filipino Juvic Pagunsan (2005).

The Malaysian challenge lost steam following Sufian Tan’s victory in 1985 and it was not until 1997 that a local name topped the leaderboard again – thanks to R Nachimuthu, who edged New Zealander Reon Sayer in a playoff at Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah.

Another, even longer local drought followed, finally ended by Gavin Kyle Green in 2012 as the long-hitting Malaysian powered to a six-shot win at Glenmarie Golf & Country Club.

In 2006, the Malaysian Amateur Open joined the roster of World Amateur Golf Ranking events, reinforcing its status as one of the most coveted amateur championships in Asia.

Come this May 21 when the 113th edition tees-off at Kelab Golf Sarawak, fans will be in for a treat of top-class golf from the region’s best amateurs – who will no doubt, as many others have before them, go on to forge successful professional careers.

Will the Aussie dominance continue or can one of our Malaysian boys rise to the occasion in the absence of Green, who will be busy with his college golf commitments for the University of New Mexico?

Whatever the outcome, it’s going to be another great chapter in the chronology of one of the world’s most storied golf events. PG

YEAR

WINNER

1894 1895 1896 1897 1898 1899 1900 1901 1902 1903 1904 1905 1906 1907 1908 1909 1910 1911 1912 1913 1914 1915 1916 1917-18 1919 1920 1921 1922 1923 1924 1925 1926 1927 1928 1929 1930 1931 1932 1933 1934 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941-47 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967

D.A.M. Brown D.A.M. Brown D.A.M. Brown D.A.M Brown P. Fowlie C.G. Glassford C.MacBain C.G. Glassford A.B. Stephens F. Ferguson T.R. Longmuir R.A. Campbell R.A. Campbell Captain J. Kirkwood D.A.M. Brown C.V. Miles G.R.K. Mugliston C.T. Durward J. L. Humphreys J. Crabb Watt C.J. Foot R.T. Reid J. Crabb Watt Not played J. L. Humphreys G. Gibson E.P. Kyle E.P. Kyle E.P. Kyle J. Crabb Watt L.D. Hardie W.J. Gibb W.J. Gibb E.P. Kyle R. Craik E.P. Kyle W.H. Elkins M.M. Paterson M.M. Paterson W.J. Gibb R.Craik W.H. Elkins M.M. Paterson C.A.R. Bateman E. Laidlaw Thomson G. Halliday Not played R B Lauriston W J Gibb D.A. Davies R.R. Jackson B.J. Newey R.B. Lauriston C.H. Beamish C.H. Beamish B. Lauriston N. A. Harvey D.W. McMullan R.C.W. Stokes F.H. Turner S.C. Beaty J.L.O. Sullivan Darwis Deran J.H. Mitchell Darwis Deran Phua Thin Kiay Zainal Abidin Yusof

COUNTRY

YEAR

WINNER

UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK

1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Jalal Deran Jalal Deran A.J. Malcolm James Stewart Hassan Ali Brian Marks Tan Yee Khan Nazamuddin Yusof Eshak Bluah Eshak Bluah Chen Tze-Ming Sumano Peter Chong Gooi Liong Kee Barie Bluah John Williamson P. Segaran Suffian Tan Buari Sumaat Lester Peterson Nandasena Pereira Stuart Bouvier Robert Allenby Shane Tait Stephen Leaney Chang Tse-Peng Mardan Mamat Marcus Wheelhouse Jarrod Moseley R. Nachimuthu Cameron Percy Anura Rohana Shiv Kapur Kao Bo Song Eddy Lee Luke Hickmott Doug Holloway Juvic Pagunsan Andrew Dodt Goh Kun Yang Koh Dengshan Thanyakon Khrongpha Mhark Fernando Daniel Bringolf Gavin Kyle Green Kevin Marques Cory Crawford

UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK UK MAS UK MAS SIN MAS

COUNTRY MAS MAS UK SIN MAS SIN MAS MAS MAS MAS TPE INA MAS MAS MAS NZL MAS MAS INA AUS SRL AUS AUS AUS AUS TPE SIN NZL AUS MAS AUS SRL IND TPE NZL AUS NZL PHI AUS SIN SIN THA PHI AUS MAS AUS AUS

Cory Crawford

©ParGolf

Malaysia's Gavin Kyle Green (L) triumphed in 2012

©ParGolf

MALAYSIAN AMATEUR OPEN ROLL OF HONOUR

ParGolf MAY 2015

026-029•MAO.May15.indd 29

29

4/24/15 10:00 AM

©ParGolf

MPI SAUJANA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP

Return To THE COBRA

Saujana club manager Ken Kudo shows off the revamped par-three second hole of the Palm Course

28th edition set to sizzle with nine holes of the revamped Palm Course in play

BY JONATHAN PONNIAH

30

Hole 9, Palm Course

Green, who is the only three-time winner of the event (2009, 2011 and 2012) and is expected to make some serious waves when he joins the paid ranks – which many expect to happen later this year following the completion of his final year with the University of New Mexico.

2014 champion Danthai Boonma of Thailand turned professional just a few months after winning last year and turned in some eye-catching performances on home soil – including a joint fourth finish in the Asian Tour’s King’s Cup – before earning his Asian

©ParGolf

N

ot many golf clubs in the world – let alone Malaysia – can boast their own event with World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points; certainly not one with a history that stretches back more than two and a half decades.

The MPI Saujana Amateur Championship is one such tourney.

Inaugurated in 1988 by Saujana Golf & Country Club just two years after the club opened, the tournament has firmly established itself as one of the premier amateur events in this part of the world.

With a WAGR rating of C, it is the jointhighest ranked amateur event in Malaysia alongside the Malaysian Amateur Open.

Come this May 26-28 as the 28th edition tees off in its traditional slot following the Malaysian Amateur Open, fans can expect a super-strong field keen to add their names to the roster of past winners – which includes the likes of Aussie Robert Allenby (1990), Taiwan’s Chang TsePeng (1993), Malaysia’s R. Nachimuthu (1996, 1997) and Airil Rizman (1999), Filipino Jay Bayron (2007) and Sri Lankan Mithun Perera (2010) – who have all gone on to build successful professional careers.

And of course there’s Malaysia’s own amateur phenomenon Gavin Kyle

Tour card via qualifying school earlier this year.

“The MPI Saujana Amateur Championship is one of the highlights of the Asian amateur circuit and we are proud to be the title-sponsor since 2012,” said David Tan, the chief strategy officer of title-sponsor Multi-Purpose Insurans.

“Over the years we have seen some of the region’s top amateurs taking part, hoping to do well so they can climb up the World Amateur Golf Ranking. I’m sure this year’s event will once again live up to its well-established reputation for showcasing top-class golf from players

ParGolf MAY 2015

030-031•MPI Saujana.May15.indd 30

4/24/15 9:43 AM

TOURNAMENT FACT FILE

who no doubt will go on to shine on the world’s professional tours.”

One of the highlights of this year’s championship will be its return to Saujana’s iconic Palm Course aka ‘The Cobra’ after an extensive renovation and redesign exercise – well, part of it anyway. The first nine holes were already nearing completion at press time in mid-April and the MPI Saujana will serve as a baptism of fire for the ‘reborn’ tract, which will be played as the back nine for the championship – paired with a composite course from Saujana’s other 18, the Bunga Raya where Danthai won last year.

“We’ll be using a composite course for the MPI Saujana Amateur Championship. The front nine will be made up of Holes 1 to 4 and 14 to 18 of the Bunga Raya and the back nine will be the first nine holes of the new Palm Course,” said a visibly excited Ken Kudo, Saujana’s club manager.

“We’re basically taking the best of the Bunga Raya and combining that with the first nine of the Palm.”

Ken noted that the closing two holes, Palm 8 and 9, will be modified for the championship. “Hole 8 is a long par five but we will convert it to a scoring par five for the tournament – this will make things interesting as it

©ParGolf

Hole 8, Palm Course

will play as Hole 17. Palm 9 is a short par five for normal play but will be set up as a long par four to provide an exciting finish.”

While taking a tour of the new Palm holes, it was evident that the course had been beefed up considerably with new tees, redesigned and repositioned bunkering as well as total revamps of the green complexes – while retaining the feel and features of the original layout that so endeared it to the Malaysian golfing public. It was, as Ken aptly put it, “the Palm Course on steroids.”

“The revamped Palm Course is much longer and still narrow off the tees, so you have to be exceptionally accurate and you also have to be long if you want to take the Tiger lines. We expect the greens to roll around 9.5 on the Stimpmeter – that’s fast enough as there are some tricky breaks and we don’t want to stress the turf too much while it’s still new,” he said, adding that they will work hard to get the older Bunga Raya greens to play as similar as possible to the Palm putting surfaces during tournament week.

Whoever wins come May 28 will be a deserving champion indeed. PG

PAST WINNERS 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Roni Lim (MAS) Wong Hong Nung (MAS) Robert Allenby (AUS) Burhan Bora (INA) Lucas Parsons (AUS) Chang Tse-Peng (TPE) Amit Luthra (IND) Stewart Ginn Jnr (AUS) R. Nachimuthu (MAS) R. Nachimuthu (MAS) Harmeet Kahlon (IND) Airil Rizman (MAS) Rahizam Ramli (MAS) Tim Wilkinson (NZL) Andrew Buckle (AUS) Luke Hickmott (AUS) James Nitties (AUS) Andrew Tampion (AUS) Stephen Dartnall (AUS) Jay Bayron (PHI) George Foo (SIN) Gavin Kyle Green (MAS)

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Mithun Perera (SRL) Gavin Kyle Green (MAS) Gavin Kyle Green (MAS) Nicklaus Chiam (SIN) Danthai Boonma (THA)

Gavin Kyle Green

Jay Bayron

ages ile/Getty Im ©Victor Fra

2014 champion Danthai Boonma (centre) with VIPs during last year's prizegiving

MPI Saujana Amateur Championship May 26-28 Palm & Bunga Raya Composite Course, Saujana Golf & Country Club Eligibility Male amateur golfers with USGA Handicap Indices of 6.0 and below (or USGA Handicaps of 7 and below) Entry Fee RM350 Closing Date May 15 Website www.saujana.com.my

©Stephen Munday/Getty Images

©Saujana GCC

Name Date Venue

Robert Allenby

CARD OF THE COURSE FRONT NINE (HOLES 1-4 AND 14-18, BUNGA RAYA COURSE) HOLE 1 2 3 4 5 6 PAR 5 4 4 4 5 3 YARDS 523 398 411 417 517 205

7 4 323

8 3 180

9 4 455

OUT 36 3429

BACK NINE (HOLE 1-9, PALM COURSE) HOLE 10 11 12 PAR 4 3 5 YARDS 387 195 604

16 4 394

17 5 534

18 4 471

IN 36 3537

13 4 344

14 3 203

15 4 405

TOTAL 72 6966

ParGolf MAY 2015

030-031•MPI Saujana.May15.indd 31

31

4/24/15 9:43 AM

Teen Thai-Tan DANTHAI BOONMA

He just turned 19 and is one of the continent’s brightest young talents.

We catch up with Thailand’s Danthai Boonma as he gears up for his first season as a full-fledged professional on the Asian Tour.

32

©Asian Tour

R

emember this name – Danthai Boonma. The 19-year-old Thai turned professional late last year and has already made heads turn with his superb play and age-belying selfconfidence.

Danthai served notice of his prodigious talent when he finished joint fourth in his first professional tournament, the King’s Cup at Singha Park Khon Kaen Golf Club last November. He went on to earn his Asian Tour card via qualifying school and has already set himself the lofty target of a top-20 finish on this year’s Order of Merit and top-10 the following year – en route to his five-year goal, the PGA Tour.

ParGolf MAY 2015

032-034•Danthai Boonma.May15.indd 32

4/23/15 7:17 PM

©Lintao Zhang/Getty Images

Young Olympian – Danthai (R) won a bronze in the 2014 Youth Olympics

Prior to turning pro, Danthai enjoyed a superb amateur career highlighted by two golds at the 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar where he edged Malaysia’s Gavin Green in a playoff for the individual men’s title, the team and individual titles in the 2014 Putra Cup in Brunei, and bronze medals in the 2014 Asian Games and 2014 Youth Summer Olympics.

2014 was a stunning year for the youngster as he won numerous other amateur titles in the region, including the MPI Saujana Amateur Championship in Malaysia and the Singapore Amateur Championship.

We caught up with the feisty teenager by phone to find out his goals and aspirations – and what makes him tick.

How did you get into golf and who was your first coach?

Danthai Boonma (DB): My father was the one who first trained me. When I was about seven years old, he took me to the golf course and taught me how to play golf. He let me putt and hit balls and I found that I enjoyed it very much.

I loved hitting the ball as far as I could – and it made me very happy when the ball went into the hole!

Who would you say has been the biggest inspiration in your golfing career?

DB: My father. Aside from playing golf, my father used to watch a lot of it on TV as well, so I would watch golf with him and he would tell me everything about the game and what’s happening.

That was how I got to know Tiger Woods who soon became my biggest inspiration.

When did you decide that you wanted to become a professional golfer?

DB: It was always my dream to be a professional golfer – since I was young – but even more after the SEA Games two years ago when I won a gold medal and the Asian Games last year when I played on the national team.

Tell us about the CIMB Junior Development Programme and how it has benefitted you.

DB: It was a really great experience being in the programme. My coach is from the PGA Tour Academy, Shane Gillespie. I learnt a lot from him – he helped improve my technique, especially on perfecting my golf swing, and also how to manage my game. Also, I got a lot of tips on maintaining my fitness.

The CIMB Junior Development Programme is where I got my first professional golf training. Overall, it provided me with valuable information on the game and it was where I really honed my skills. Apart from that, I also made a lot of friends!

You’ve played in Malaysia before – in fact won the 2014 MPI Saujana Amateur Championship. Do you enjoy coming here?

DB: Yes, I really enjoy Malaysia. The golf courses are in really good condition and I always look forward to meeting my golfer friends in Malaysia.

In last year’s King’s Cup, you finished fourth in a top-class Asian Tour field.

What was that experience like?

DB: I felt a lot of pressure on the course because of the competition who, in my opinion, are world-class golfers.

It was a really good challenge for me though.

How many professional events have you played so far and what’s your best finish?

DB: So far I’ve played in six events – the King’s Cup was my first event and my best finish, last year’s Thailand Golf Championship, the Asian Tour Qualifying School and three local Thai events in which I ranked top-10 in each. I enjoyed the Thailand Golf Championship at Amata Spring the most although it’s a tough golf course and I missed the cut – I learnt a lot from the experience and it helped me improve my swing and manage my game better.

What’s the biggest difference between being an amateur and a professional?

DB: The pressure to keep developing myself. I have to train harder than when I was an amateur and always have to ensure that I stay mentally and physically strong. I go to the gym more often now because a professional golfer has to play in a lot of events – so to be one, I have to ensure that I have ‘body firmness’.

Who’s your favourite golfer?

DB: I really like Adam Scott. He’s always in good shape and he’s got a really powerful swing. Overall I find that he manages his game really well. I used to like Tiger Woods when I was younger but now Adam is my favourite because I find that we both have the same playing style.

ParGolf MAY 2015

032-034•Danthai Boonma.May15.indd 33

33

4/23/15 7:17 PM

©CIMB Berhad

DANTHAI BOONMA

Danthai (3rd from right) was one of the graduates from the CIMB Development Programme

Do you have any golfing superstitions/taboos?

DB: I have this Buddha image at home that I always pray to before any game.

And usually during the last round of a tournament, I always wear an orange shirt because it’s my favourite colour and I feel lucky in it.

How many siblings do you have?

Do they play golf?

DB: I’m an only child.

What’s your favourite food?

DB: I love spicy food like som tam.

When it comes to Malaysian food, I have to say that my favourite is laksa! I have this favourite stall that I always go to when I travel to KL, this place near KLCC, but I don’t remember the exact location. When I’m on tour, I always load up on carbs for energy.

What kind of music do you like?

DB: My favourite genre is pop-rock. I love Maroon 5 as well as this Thai band called Bodyslam.

34

“The CIMB Junior Development Programme is where I got my first professional golf training.

Overall, it provided me with valuable information on the game and it was where I really honed my skills.”

What’s in your golf bag?

DB: Apart from the usual golf stuff, the must-haves in my bag are peanuts, some medicine, a raincoat, energy drink in powder form, an umbrella and extra gloves.

Do you have any advice for junior golfers who want to turn pro?

DB: Keep practicing and always be patient.

FACT FILE Full Name Nickname Nationality Date Of Birth Residence Height Weight Turned Professional

Danthai Boonma Dan Thailand January 23, 1996 Bangkok 1.82m 75kg November 2014

©Asian Tour

What do you do to relax?

DB: When I’m not training, I play table tennis, badminton and football. I love sports, it helps me unwind. Aside from that, I love watching movies and also travelling to seaside destinations like Hua Hin.

ParGolf MAY 2015

032-034•Danthai Boonma.May15.indd 34

4/23/15 7:17 PM

billingham 285x210.pdf 8/4/2015 3:41:00 PM

Since 1973

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Conceived, designed and made in Britain, Billingham camera bags are made with care and used by serious photographers around the world. The Billingham family has been in the business of designing and manufacturing bags since 1973 and we have many thousands of satisfied customers all over the world.

Our products have a reputation for excellence that has been built up over 40 years. Pick up a Billingham and you will notice the way it just feels right and moulds to your body. That indefinable something is only made possible by our passion for quality and detail.

A Billingham isn’t about nostalgia or tradition and it is much more than just a desirable object. It is about wanting and expecting the best protection for your camera and equipment, giving you comfort and peace of mind and yet stylish. Billinghams are unlike any other bags and the way they are designed and made is key to their unique character.

Billingham Hadley Pro

*Image credit to TJ & Co.

•Billingham.May15.indd 105

4/14/15 4:18 PM

reading the lines jonathan ponniah Great For Golf

Jordan Spieth’s rise and Tiger Woods’ return bode well for the Royal & Ancient Game

36

©Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

T

here’s nothing quite like the Masters. Somehow golf’s first Major of the year invariably serves up a great spectacle and keeps you glued to the TV until the last putt drops.

Okay, so this year’s finish was not exciting in a one-dimensional sense of the word, Jordan Spieth leaving the rest in his wake as he sped to a four-shot win with a record-equalling 18-under-par total. But anyone who followed the action at Augusta National will agree on one thing – his win was an exciting development for the game, proving that the young Texan is the real deal and an imminent threat to Rory McIlroy’s reign as World No 1. Forget the likes of Henrik Stenson, Rickie Fowler and Bubba Watson – Spieth’s all-round game and remarkable composure mark him as the player most likely to give McIlroy a run for his money as the game’s dominant force.

And mark my words, the game needs an American hero. With an estimated 40% of the world’s 60 million-plus golfers located in the good ol’ USA, what is good for the game there is good for the game at large – and I’m talking from an economic point of view.

According to the ‘Golf Around the World 2015’ report by the National Golf Foundation (funded by the R&A and 15 golf companies), the US is home to 45% of the world’s 34,000-plus golfing facilities – that’s an eye-opening statistic, although Asia ranks first in terms of new golf developments with 30% of courses currently under construction located in our neck of the woods.

The NGF also reports that, from 2006 to 2013, golf participation in the US dropped from 29.82 million to 24.72 million as the sport lost followers to other, easier to learn and more timeefficient activities such as cycling, running and racquet sports. While the powers that be and interested parties are striving to stem the decline through a number of efforts such as the World

Golf Foundation’s ’Golf 2020’ initiative and the United States Golf Association's ‘Play 9’ campaign, there’s no denying the importance of the top-down influence.

Spieth’s win in the Masters will hopefully inspire those who have dropped out of the game to return and spur youngsters to take to the fairways and greens.

TV ratings at this year's Masters were significantly up from 2014, when the field missed a certain Tiger Woods. With Woods back this year and playing well, CBS reported that ratings for Sunday’s last round jumped up 36% compared to last year. While it’s still open to debate whether Woods will ever return to Majorwinning ways, his star power and charisma remain major draws – and the amazing thing is that his popularity transcends the game, spreading its appeal to non-golfers across all walks of life. Not many sportsmen, let alone

golfers, have that – the closest in golf perhaps was the late Seve Ballesteros, but even the great Spaniard is a distant second.

Woods certainly showed glimpses of his A-game at Augusta National but, more importantly, the fist-pumping and fire were back. He looked to have regained his self-belief, a far cry from the sorry sight that limped out of the Honda Classic just over a month before the Masters. Heck, he even managed to put a bone in his right wrist "back into place" after it "popped out" when he hit a tree root during the final round. The man’s a genius.

With Woods back on tour and hopefully remaining injury-free, plus Spieth’s rise up the ranks to carry the Stars & Stripes banner, 2015 could be a benchmark year for golf.

Fingers crossed, in a good way. PG

WORLDWIDE GOLF FACILITIES VERSUS POPULATION

Region Africa Asia, Middle East Europe North & Central America, Caribbean Oceania South America The World

Population 1,110,635,062 4,298,723,288 742,452,170 561,072,904 38,303,620 410,932,390

Golf Holes 12,447 91,536 127,770 303,999 31,632 9,150

716,219,434 576,534 Source: Golf Around the World 2015 by National Golf Foundation

Golf Facilities 911 4,778 7,403 18,145 2,111 663

Population/Golf Hole 89,229 46,962 5,811 1,846 1,210 44,911

34,011

12,570

ParGolf MAY 2015

036•ReadingTheLines.May15.indd 36

4/24/15 9:47 AM

RAMADHAN GOLF PROMOTION GOLF PROMO

GROUP PROMO

RM169.60 nett per pax

RM201.40 nett

(inclusive of green fee, buggy and insurance)

(inclusive of green fee, buggy, insurance and one meal)

Minimum 60 pax TERMS & CONDITIONS • Caddies are compulsory • No rain checks allowed • Not applicable on public holidays • All rates quoted are inclusive of 6% Goods & Services Tax

DANAU PERMAI RESORT BERHAD (379138-V) No 1, Jalan 31/100A, Kota Kemuning, Section 31, 40460 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.

Tel: +603 5122 3700 Fax: +603 5122 3702 Email: kpgcc@kotapermai.com.my Website: www.kotapermai.com.my Facebook: facebook.com/kotapermai.com.my GPS Coordinate: 2.996592,101.534421

037•Ad.KPGCC.indd 37

4/24/15 12:25 PM

“I feel very honoured to be in this partnership with CIMB, and be their first ever golf ambassador. Without CIMB’s sponsorship, it would be near impossible for me to play on tour this year – the cost of travelling and accommodation is just crazy!”

KELLY TAN, CIMB GOLF AMBASSADOR

38

ParGolf MAY 2015

038-041•Kelly.May15.indd 38

4/23/15 7:27 PM

InHOT Pursuit KELLY TAN & CIMB

CIMB’s first ever golf ambassador Kelly Tan shares what the new alliance with the financial giant means for her and her pursuit of golfing glory

BY SYAMA RAMASAMY

W

Tell us about your sponsorship deal with CIMB. Kelly Tan (KT): It’s a partnership between me and CIMB – they’re supporting me financially on tour. As you know, CIMB is a big supporter of golf having worked with the PGA Tour, Asian Tour, Indonesian Tour, and junior development programmes. I feel very honoured to be in this partnership with CIMB, and be their first ever golf ambassador. Without CIMB’s sponsorship, it would be near impossible for me to

©Michael Dodge/Getty Images

e hear it all the time – to the point of being a cliché – that hard work paves the path to success, fuelled by nothing less than unwavering grit, and Kelly Tan is certainly one who will vouch for that.

The young lady from Batu Pahat, Johor, who began her golfing journey at age 12, means business – and the fiery glint in her eyes and infectious enthusiasm as she speaks reveal her passion, her aspiration to be a top-ranked world golfer.

Knowing Kelly, that’s not a far-fetched dream either. Backtrack three years – this is the same girl who boldly proclaimed, without batting an eyelid, that she’d be “playing on the LPGA Tour, and enjoying every minute of it” when asked where she sees herself in 10 years’ time.

Currently ranked 211th in the world, the threetime winner of the Malaysian Ladies Amateur Open is now in her second season on the LPGA Tour, and rounded up the year 2014 with an impressive tiedfourth finish at the Marathon Classic played in Ohio – and this season already looks promising having inked a sponsorship deal with CIMB Group and earning the distinction of being the financial powerhouse’s first ever golf ambassador – male or female.

So what does this sponsorship mean for Kelly, what are her goals on tour this year? We caught up with CIMB’s golf ambassador Kelly Tan in early March to find out.

ParGolf MAY 2015

038-041•Kelly.May15.indd 39

39

4/23/15 7:27 PM

KELLY TAN & CIMB

Kelly with Tengku Dato Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Group Chief Executive of CIMB Group

play on tour this year – the cost of travelling and accommodation is just crazy!

You’ve played two events this year so far. Were you happy with your performances?

KT: I played in the Pure Silk Bahamas LPGA Classic and the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open in the first half of February. I played well in both events … just that my putter wasn’t cooperating. I’m just being very patient with it, not going to push it. I’m striking the ball well, I just have to give myself chances.

Do you feel the pressure playing on tour?

KT: Not so much. The event in Bahamas provided a relaxed environment – it almost felt like I was dreaming. You’re in beautiful Bahamas, but you’re there to play in a tournament. It was fun!

What’s your target on tour this year?

KT: I’m aiming for top-60 on the Money List so that I can play all the Asian events. It’s getting easier on tour now that this is my second year. Last year was tough, now it’s easier. And I think top-60 is a good target for me.

Does anyone travel with you on tour?

KT: My godmother June (Yap) is kind of like my manager, she travels with me. I ‘skype’ my parents every day – it’s a 40

little tough because of the time difference, though.

Do you get onto any of the Majors this year?

KT: Yeah, I’ll be playing all the Major tournaments – but I have to qualify for the British and US Opens.

Which would you most like to win?

KT: I’d say the US Open. I mean, all the Majors are great, but the US Open stands out – it’s got the toughest course, the most difficult conditions … whoever wins there is a truly great player, in my opinion. It tests every facet of your game, your patience, physical and mental strength.

I’m aiming for top-60 on the Money List so that I can play all the Asian events.

It’s getting easier on tour now that this is my second year … and I think top-60 is a good target for me.

Apart from weather conditions, what are the main differences between big tournaments held locally and internationally?

KT: For me, the main difference is how the course is set up. At home, the grass is different … they can’t make the greens really hard and fast. If they do

that the grass is going to die. That’s the main difference for me … the hard greens, dry fairways – oh, and the winds! Malaysia is always very calm – we don’t get 30kph winds here.

Do you prefer playing in hot or cold conditions?

KT: I prefer hot conditions. I think it benefits me ‘cos I’m used to it. The humidity really “kills” a lot of the players.

But I’m used to it, I’m sort of a survivor.

What are the coldest and hottest venues you’ve played?

KT: Last year during the Swinging Skirts LPGA Classic in San Francisco, it was freezing! It was so cold, it was raining. As for the hottest, I’d say the Australian Open a few weeks ago. It was so hot and dry – it really drains you out mentally. It was so hot I couldn’t even open my eyes!

Any particular part of your game that you want to improve on?

KT: I am happy where I am technically and mentally. I just need to work on my putting ... ‘cos I know if I putt well, I can be on top of the leaderboard.

Sometimes you need to hole one or two more 20-footers or 30-footers to get you going – that’s where I’m lacking, but I’m working on it.

What’s the most difficult part of being on tour?

KT: I would say the most difficult part is

ParGolf MAY 2015

038-041•Kelly.May15.indd 40

4/23/15 7:27 PM

not getting to see my family very often – especially when I’m having my low moments, when I’m not performing as well as I would like, I don’t have anyone to talk to. I can survive three months without coming back home; last year I was away for six months, that was tough. You don’t really feel it when you’re doing well, but when you’re down, you need someone to talk to.

What about the best part?

KT: I get to go to many different places, see different things, meet new people.

So far my favourite places are San Francisco, Bahamas and Hawaii – they’re very relaxing, they don’t feel like work.

What do you do during your downtime?

KT: I practice … but I don’t take it too seriously, ‘cos when you start doing that you tend to get disappointed and that’s not a good thing. So, I practice when I feel like it. I don’t practice for the sake of practicing – I don’t do it just to make up the hours. I make sure I have an agenda. I ask myself what I want to

FACT FILE Full Name Birthdate Birthplace/Residence Family

Home Club Fave Golfers Fave Food Hobbies

Kelly Tan Guat Chen October 26, 1993 Batu Pahat, Johor Dad – Tan Sen Thong; Mom – Chan Ley Hoon; Sisters – Elly (27), Amy (22), Cindy (16); Brother – Robin (17) Bukit Banang GCC, Johor Tiger Woods, Na-Yeon Choi Noodle soup Playing the guitar, chilling out with friends

improve on, then I work on it. I’m not too hard on myself. What’s the worst that could happen? If I play badly, I go home … and that’s no good, but it’s not the end of the world. That kind of mentality really helps me get better.

I am happy where I am technically and mentally.

I just need to work on my putting ... ‘cos I know if I putt well, I can be on top of the leaderboard.

Who are your ‘besties’ on tour? How do you guys wind down?

KT: I’m close to the Korean girls mostly, like So-yeon Ryu. Sometimes we like to pamper ourselves – get our nails done, get facials. Sometimes we just chill out in the room and talk nonsense, grab a coffee or work out together.

Tell us – what’s a typical tournament week like for you?

KT: I try to travel on Sunday nights or Monday mornings. Tuesday is my

practice round day. I like to play really early, before the crowds come. So I wake up around 5.30am, get ready, do my stretching, warm up, grab some breakfast and go. I practice a bit, then get out of the heat and go for some physiotherapy if I’m tight, then do some workout. Wednesday is the pro-am day; if I’m not playing in the pro-am, I’ll practice for about two hours, then see a physiotherapist, followed by some light workout, maybe go for a two-mile run.

Thursday to Sunday are tournament days. Then I travel again on Sunday night, do it all over again.

How big of a part does your godmother June play in your golf career?

KT: I met June when I was 12 years old – she’s a really good golfer, and she was in most of the flights I was in, and that’s how I got to know her. One day I went back home to Batu Pahat and told my mom that I have a godmother in KL, and that I was going to stay with June and her family in KL. And my mom went, “Are you crazy? I don’t even know these people! How do you know if they are good or bad?” Then I said, “I know she’s good.” My mom went, “How do you know? You’re only 12!”

So I suggested that she come up to KL and meet June – so they met, and they got to know each other. Then I began staying with June. When I met her, I couldn’t speak a word of English; she basically helped me a lot with my command of the language. Her sons and husband can’t speak Chinese, so I was forced to pick up English. June really groomed me, taught me how to talk to people, carry myself in public.

These things boosted my confidence level, so yeah, June has played a big part in shaping the Kelly Tan you see off the course.

So she’s not a blood relative?

KT: No, she’s not. People are always surprised that we are so close, and we’re not related. I always get asked if she’s my aunt. Golf really made us click, and we also have similar personalities. I’m very straightforward and so is she. She’s a very nice lady ...

I’m truly fortunate to have her in my life.

When will you be back in Malaysia next?

KT: I’m going to try and come back before the US Open, which is in June, but nothing’s confirmed. Otherwise, it’ll be sometime in September. PG ParGolf MAY 2015

038-041•Kelly.May15.indd 41

41

4/23/15 7:27 PM

bunker mentality mike wilson

ParGolf’s European correspondent Mike Wilson vents his views in this ‘no-holds-barred’ column

Not So Dandy

With golf returning to the Olympic fold next year, the PGA Tour needs to be visibly more serious about the spectre of drug use

O

h how Americans love a repentant sinner, a renaissance man, a sportsman who has seen the error of his ways, cleaned up his act, righted the wrongs, come back squeaky clean having denounced the demons that have hitherto haunted him … all’s well that end well.

In recent years, we’ve sat back, watched and listened to cyclists like Lance Armstrong and Tyler Hamilton, baseball stars such as Barry Bonds and Alex ‘A-Rod’ Rodriguez, sprinters Marion Jones and Tyson Gay – and now, the US plague on all our houses has come, surprise, surprise, to the game of golf.

Just before last year’s record Ryder Cup defeat, the authoritative source for all matters US golf, under the dual by-line Michael Bamberger and Mike Walker, reported: “Dustin Johnson is serving a sixmonth suspension from the PGA Tour after testing positive for cocaine, a source has told Golf.com.”

The report continued: “According to the source, Johnson has failed three drug tests; one for marijuana in 2009 and two for cocaine, in 2012 and 2014,” adding, “He was previously suspended for the 2012 failed test, but that suspension was never made public.

“Under the PGA Tour’s drug-testing policies, the tour is not required to announce any disciplinary actions against players who test positive for recreational drugs,” the report concluded.

For his part, Johnson announced that he was “taking a leave of absence from professional golf, effective immediately.”

“I will use this time to seek professional help for personal challenges I have faced. By committing the time and resources necessary to improve my mental health, physical well-being and emotional foundation, I am confident that I will be better equipped to fulfil my potential and become a consistent champion,” he said in a statement issued through his management company Hambric Sports Management.

Johnson’s de facto employer and

42

union representatives, the PGA Tour, released a statement at the time, wishing Johnson well and saying it looked forward to his return.

But when repeatedly asked directly about Johnson’s failed drug tests and subsequent suspension, Ty Votaw, executive vice president of the PGA Tour – who as executive director of the International Golf Federation’s Olympic Golf Committee was a prime mover in getting golf back into the Olympics – insisted the tour would have no further comment on the matter.

Pressed further in a carefullychoreographed interview paving the way for his reintegration into the PGA Tour with Associated Press (AP), Johnson insisted he has never failed a drug test, and that he was done talking about it; asked why he had not been more forthcoming with answers, Johnson replied, “Because it’s personal and frankly, it’s not really anybody’s business.”

Fast-forward six short months and PGA Tour staff writer Brian Wacker trills: “On Sunday at Trump National Doral, [Dustin] Johnson found a new way to celebrate, walking off the 18th green after his one-shot win at the World Golf Championships-Cadillac Championship, he was greeted by fiancée Paulina Gretzky and their seven-week-old son Tatum, whom he cradled as he walked toward the scorer’s tent to make things official.”

Meanwhile, the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) name-and-shame list reveals two track-and-field athletes and one Paralympian to have tested positive for Benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, resulting in bans ranging from one to two years and their results expunged from the record books.

USADA also subscribes to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) protocols for ‘Whereabouts’ – whereby athletes are subject to testing 365 days a year and are not

permitted to have ‘off-seasons’ or cut-off periods in which testing does not occur.

Given that ‘Whereabouts’ information (dates, times, locations, etc) is submitted to USADA by an athlete allows the athlete to be located for out-ofcompetition testing, and that golf is hailing its readmission to the Olympic ‘family’, surely it is unreasonable and for the PGA Tour and Johnson himself to play fast-and-loose with the rules governing every other athlete competing in an Olympic sport.

More seriously, the US Justice Department reported in 2010 – its most up-to-date statistics – that an estimated 223,000 military veterans were in either state or federal jails, at least half due to substance abuse.

Perhaps Johnson, for whom playing in the Presidents Cup in Korea this year will be as close to combat as he is likely ever to come, might count his lucky stars that he exists in such a tolerant and forgiving environment and consider donating the US$1,570,000 – a sum not to be sniffed at – to one or more of the many veterans charities.

As for US sport in general and its love of the repentant sinner, and the PGA Tour in particular for its obfuscation and dual standards, the whole lot of them get right up my nose. PG

ParGolf MAY 2015

042•Bunker Mentality.May15.indd 42

4/23/15 2:25 PM

APRIL 13, 2015

ALEX PRUGH (LEFT) AND ALEJANDRO CAÑIZARES ARE TWO OF 62 PING PROS PLAYING G30 DRIVERS.

MASTERS MOMENTS

S55

G30

i25

Rhapsody

PING pros at The Masters had fond memories to take home from the year’s first major. Prior to the tournament, defending champion Bubba Watson received a solid-gold replica of his 2014 Masters-winning PING Anser putter from PING Chairman & CEO John Solheim.

Watson’s son, Caleb, stole the show at the par-3 contest on Wednesday when he caught hold of a drive using his

own all-pink driver, inspired by dad’s. Hunter Mahan had reason to smile during his lowscoring weekend, posting 68-67 to finish T9. Miguel Ángel Jiménez snapped a selfie during a practice round. 2009 champion Angel Cabrera once again had his son, Angel Jr., on his bag.

And Louis Oosthuizen navigated Augusta National’s greens with a keen eye and assistance from caddie Greg Hearmon.

PING DEMO/FITTING DAYS SCHEDULE FOR MAY 2015 MAY

DAY

VENUE

TIME

5/May/15

Tue

UPM Golf Club Driving Range (Custom Fitting with latest nFLIGHT Fitting System)

4.30pm to 7.30pm

7/May/15

Thu

Kota Permai Golf & Country Club Driving Range (Custom Fitting with latest nFLIGHT Fitting System)

5.00pm to 8.00pm

12/May/15

Tue

Klang Executive Club Driving Range (Custom Fitting with latest nFLIGHT Fitting System)

5.00pm to 8.00pm

14/May/15

Thu

Danau Golf Club Driving Range (Custom Fitting with latest nFLIGHT Fitting System)

5.00pm to 8.00pm

Sole Distributor:

20/May/15

Wed

Tropicana Golf Country Club Driving Range (Custom Fitting with latest nFLIGHT Fitting System)

5.00pm to 8.00pm

36, Jln Pemberita U1/49, Temasya Industrial Park, Seksyen U1, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

Tel : 03-5569 2623 Fax : 03-5569 2639 Email : winstons@wingolf.com.my Available at leading golf shops, pro shops and department stores.

26/May/15

Tue

Monterez Golf & Country Club Driving Range (Custom Fitting with latest nFLIGHT Fitting System)

5.00pm to 8.00pm

28/May/15

Thu

Extreme Park Golf Driving Range Kota Damansara (Custom Fitting with latest nFLIGHT Fitting System)

5.00pm to 8.00pm

Winston’s Sdn Bhd Showroom (Indoor) (Custom Fitting with latest nFlight Fitting System) (PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT)

10.00am to 5.00pm

WINSTON’S SDN BHD (15202-W)

043•PING.custom.May15.indd 43

MAY’15 DAILY EXCEPT - Sat, Sun, & Public Holiday

4/24/15 10:00 AM

TRIED 'N' TESTED

High Marks Ping’s new G30 driver scores well in consumer test at Tropicana

BY NICK GOH

I

TR

n the first TNT (Tried ‘N’ Tested) equipment test organised by ParGolf and JNG Golf, a group of amateur golfers had the chance to test the new Ping G30 driver as well as get their swing analysed by JNG Golf’s Nathan Hauser.

D ‘N’ Fourteen golfers participated in the event at IE Tropicana Golf & Country Club’s driving range – four were 12-handicappers and below (lowest being a four-handicap), seven with handicaps of between 13 and 18 and the remaining three ranging from 20 to 24.

Twelve testers said that the driver was easy to E T E ST handle. Only two of them had some difficulty – one said that the shaft was too stiff and the other said the feedback at impact was not what he liked.

All of the testers felt comfortable holding the club at address although one said he would prefer it to be lighter and another wanted it to be heavier. They liked the sound at impact and the majority of them found the club very forgiving.

Eleven of them said that they could quite accurately get the ball to where they aimed. Out of the three that had some inconsistency in accuracy, one was an honest 24-handicapper who said he probably didn’t have the skills to hit any club accurately and consistently anyway.

The majority of them did not get much additional distance compared to their existing drivers, based on the launch monitor readings – but having said that, most golfers cannot accurately gauge their distance anyway. I have a friend who told me that he could hit his driver about 250m on average but when we were on the course, he could not get a single drive past 210m. You get my point!

We had three testers who were able to hit drives above 270 metres!

The four-handicapper smashed his to 290m and both the 12 and 15 handicappers recorded drives of 283m – all three with an average roll of 21m.

Twelve testers liked the shape and design of the club. The black matt crown appealed to those who dislike glare when they stare down the club. One tester, however, said that he preferred a shiny black head rather than the matt finish and another simply said he had no preference as to how it looks as long as it works!

Rating the driver on a scale of 1 to 5 (from bad to excellent), the 12-handicapper rated it 5, 11 testers had it between 4 and 4.5 and two rated it 3 to 3.5. The average rating given by all 14 testers were 4 out of 5.

We had six testers saying that they would put this club in their bag. Seven said that they would too if they were going to change their driver and if the price was right. I would too!

With so many shafts to choose from and possible adjustment of the clubhead, it might take you some time to find the right combination. Not to worry, though, clubfitters like Nathan could certainly help you out!

D

T N T

44

ParGolf MAY 2015

044-045•TNT.May15.indd 44

4/23/15 7:20 PM

THE TESTERS

Wong Ming Wei (15)

Lim Kien Yen (24)

Ng Fatt Choon (10)

Caeden Cheah (20)

Ruban (15)

CW See (16)

Chew Fook Kiong (13)

Brian Goh (20)

Danish Azhari (4)

Chiu Kok Hong (18)

Alex Yan (12)

Benjamin Sen (11)

Liew Yeng Hoe (17)

Note: Figures in brackets indicate handicaps

MY VERDICT PLAYABILITY An easy driver to handle as not much effort is needed to launch the ball. It feels comfortable at address and I was able to feel the clubhead throughout the swing. Lower handicappers could easily shape the ball with fades and draws.

Rating: Birdie DISTANCE The turbulators (ridges on the top of the clubhead) are supposed to increase clubhead speed by 1mph thus making it longer. The average roll for the testers was between 18m and 22m, indicating that the spin rate is quite low and the distance gained on the forward roll is quite good. So for guys who play on harder fairways, this is an added advantage.

Rating: Birdie FEEL The driver felt soft at impact and the sound off the sweet spot gives good feedback. I could not really tell when the ball was struck off-centre because of the forgiveness of the club. With that feel, I was more confident at swinging the club a little faster.

COSMETICS For me, nothing really stands out here but the driver does look good with the matt black finish. Some commented that the ‘spaceship’ design is very impressive and intimidating.

Regardless, I think Ping has made this driver more appealing to most of the brand’s fans. The black and blue coloured sole makes the club look a little more attractive.

Rating: Birdie

Rating: Par

TECH TALK WITH NATHAN HAUSER The Average Smash Factor for the Ping G30 is very high for any driver at 1.42 (1.4 Smash Factor is considered good, 1.45 very good and 1.5 excellent). Smash shows the efficiency of the strike.

All the low numbers come from slices or just mis-hits; to get these golfers to smash up I would recommended them to use shorter length shafts in order to hit the centre of the face and thus generate higher ball speeds.

The spin rates with the G30 seem to be lower than normal hence allowing greater ball speeds.

Ten golfers missed their shots to the right side, showing that the majority of the golfers would need to adjust the head setting to the closed position to keep the ball more on line.

Nine of the golfers found an increase in distance compared to their existing drivers. The shape of the shot varies, showing the different range of golfers.

All in all these are impressive results for first-time users!

ParGolf MAY 2015

044-045•TNT.May15.indd 45

45

4/23/15 7:20 PM

IN THE BAG www.ping.com

Ping Pink G30 Driver

PINK POWER

Bubba Watson fans will be thrilled to know that Ping has produced 5,000 limited-edition all-pink Ping G30 drivers, inspired by the one used by the two-time Masters champion.

And there’s a charitable swing to the pink driver – for each sold, Ping will donate US$60 to the Bubba Watson Foundation.

“Bubba has a huge heart and continues to use his success on the golf course to help people in need, especially children,” said John A. Solheim, Ping Chairman & CEO. “We’re blessed with the opportunity to partner with Bubba and are very grateful to golfers who choose to support this programme for the benefit of the Bubba Watson Foundation.”

Widely recognised as the longest hitter in golf, Watson has used a pink Ping driver since 2012, the year he won his first Masters. Following that victory, Ping introduced a similar programme with its pink G20 driver where funds were donated to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital and used to help build the recently opened Bubba Watson-Ping Golf Motion Analysis Lab – the first and only dedicated paediatric Motion Analysis Laboratory (MAL) in the state of Arizona, which evaluates and treats children and adolescents who have movement disorders caused by conditions like Cerebral Palsy.

“I’ve been playing Ping clubs since I was eight years old,” Watson said. “Besides making great equipment that helps me have success on the golf

course, Ping and the Solheim family are incredibly generous in giving back to the game through ideas like the limited-edition pink G30 driver programme. I’m excited golfers have the opportunity to participate in this great cause knowing they are also contributing to help improve the lives of the less fortunate.”

The limited-edition G30 drivers will have a bright pink shaft and clubhead featuring the same technology, including turbulators on the crown, that earned the G30 high marks for its performance from golfers of all abilities.

The pink G30 drivers are offered in 9º and 10.5º lofts (adjustable +- 1º) for right-handed players and 10.5º (adjustable +- 1º) for left-handed players, both in R and S flexes and with matching pink-accented head cover.

Note: Available via pre-order at authorised Ping retailers SRP: RM2,597

“Besides making great equipment that helps me have success on the golf course, Ping and the Solheim family are incredibly generous in giving back to the game through ideas like the limited-edition pink G30 driver programme.”

BUBBA WATSON

46

ParGolf MAY 2015

046-051•InTheBag.May15.indd 46

4/23/15 7:41 PM

www.fujikuragolf.com

Fujikura Shafts

FABULOUS FUJIKURAS Fujikura Speeder Pro Available exclusively through after-market channels from the ground up, the new Fujikura Speeder Pro shaft line has been developed to provide greater feel and consistency of load within the swing. The enlarged handle diameter allows for easier club grip and better feel within the shaft. Comes in mid-launch with midspin profiles in 66g and 76g.

Fujikura Platinum Speeder Designed for hitters, this premium Japanese specs shaft generates length and a high trajectory with acceleration at impact. Constructed with lamination of super elastic 90-ton carbon on entire length, along with TORAY high-intensity high-elastic carbon T1100G and low-resin carbon sheets.

Fujikura Onyx Speeder This premium Japanese specs shaft is for swingers and generates more distance with acceleration through the entire swing through its 2-kick point design.

Construction is through lamination of super elastic 90-ton carbon on entire length with high-elastic triax sheets.

FUJIKURA LAUNCHES 2015 PRODUCTS

By Melvin Poi Golf Shafts Asia, the master distributor and brand partner for Fujikura shafts, recently held a product launch at Tropicana Golf & Country Club for retailers, dealers and the media.

A first for a shaft company like Fujikura, the launch was aimed at introducing their new products and to reiterate their commitment to their dealers. Fujikura has a reputation for outstanding dealer support and their Lifetime Warranty on all their shafts purchased at authorised Fujikura Charter Dealers partly explains why they are one of the top-selling shaft brands in the world.

New for 2015 is the Speeder Pro – what makes it so attractive is that the Speeder Pro line has different flex, length and weight models to suit numerous swing types from high handicapper to tour pro, which results in a higher success rate of shaft-fitting.

For those who are willing to splash a little more, there is the Speeder Jewel Line comprising the Platinum Speeder and Onyx Speeder, which will only be available through Fujikura Charter Dealers.

ParGolf MAY 2015

046-051•InTheBag.May15.indd 47

47

4/23/15 7:41 PM

IN THE BAG

www.mitsubishirayongolf.com

Mitsubishi Rayon Shafts

SHAFT ATTACK! Looking to fit new shafts for your clubs to get those extra yards and more consistency on the fairways?

Here’s a look at some of the latest after-market offerings from Japanese shaft specialists Mitsubishi Rayon and leading American brand Aldila.

Mitsubishi Rayon OT Iron Shaft Mitsubishi Rayon’s new OT graphite iron shaft is designed to maintain the feel of a steel shaft but with more consistency and accuracy.

The OT gives players the distinct feel of a steel shaft with a higher launch angle and a steeper landing angle for more accurate targeting. The shaft dampens vibrations extremely well for more refined feel.

Tow Prepreg The OT iron shaft utilises a new material in the golf shaft industry called Tow Prepreg instead of the traditional prepreg sheet; Tow Prepreg consists of carbon fibres that are arranged in super-strong ‘bundles’ (the way a steel cable is made). This is then impregnated with resin and woven together like a braid.

Braided Technology The ‘braiding’ technology using Tow Prepreg makes the shaft extremely resistant to twisting and ovaling. It also creates a shaft with no spine, which results in more consistent performance compared to shafts made with traditional sheet prepreg or steel. The braiding also minimises vibration to enhance feedback.

Note: Available in May, price TBC

Mitsubishi Rayon Kuro Kage XT Series Shafts Hailed as the most extreme Kuro Kage profile yet, the new XT Series shafts deliver power and accuracy along with lower torque. Two key technologies – Low Resin Content Prepreg and Titanium Nickel (TiNi) Wire – combine to create an extremely stiff tip section for excellent stability through impact.

Low Resin Content Prepreg (LRC) The use of less resin compared to traditional prepreg creates a higher density carbon fibre without adding weight, resulting in added strength with enhanced feel.

48

TiNi (Titanium Nickel) Fibre An ultra-long 13-inch application of TiNi wire allows the shaft to efficiently transfer and unload energy. It also increases the shaft’s strength and stability, reducing deformation at impact for more distance and control. TiNi wire is an elastic yet extremely strong wire with the ability to stretch and immediately regain its original shape.

40 & 46 Ton Carbon Fibre The use of prepreg with higher modulus fibres in the tip section further enhances the already tip-stiff profile, adding stability and strength to the shaft without adding weight.

SRP: RM1,600

Mitsubishi Bassara GG-Series Shafts The lightweight yet high-performance Bassara GG-Series is designed to generate lower launching and lower spinning shots. The stiff tip and butt sections provide greater stability, making it the most stable series in the Bassara line. A 40-gram offering also makes it one of the lightest.

The Bassara Brand The Gargoyle-marked shaft is a low-launch, low-spin series that is based on the G-series while adjusting to the new trends of lower and forward weight heads. Bassara comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Vajra’, which means both thunderbolt and diamond.

The base coat of the shaft uses newly-developed silver alloy ion plating, creating a ‘glowing’ gold effect, accentuated by the holographic tribal logo.

TiNi (Titanium Nickel) Fibre The use of TiNi wire in the tip enhances energy transfer and increases the shaft’s strength and stability, reducing deformation at impact for more distance and control.

According to robot testing, the use of TiNi increases ball speed by 0.4 m/s and distance by 4 to 5 yards (based on clubhead speed of 42 m/s).

SRP: RM1,600

ParGolf MAY 2015

046-051•InTheBag.May15.indd 48

4/23/15 7:41 PM

Aldila NV-JV Shafts The Aldila-NV range features the patent-pending Micro Laminate Technology (MLT), an innovation that offers enhanced performance and feel.

The consistent taper and slim profile produces a shaft with consistent performance, flex and feel while eliminating the dull ‘boardy’ feel of other shafts in the market. A monster motif utilising 3D geometry creates an aggressive look.

Asian Versions The new Aldila NV-JV green and pink shafts are designed specifically for the Asian market, utilising the latest materials and manufacturing technology that maximise the power of each individual golf swing. The consistent taper provides exceptional feel and a smooth, controlled release.

Micro Laminate Technology (MLT) MLT consists of ultra-thin layers of premium grade materials, creating a stable, sold laminate void of ‘dead’ zones. This eliminates inconsistent shots caused by shaft variability, resulting in outstanding feel, performance and consistency.

SRP: RM990

SNEAK PEEK FOR RETAILERS AND MEDIA Malaysian retailers and media were treated to a preview of the latest Mitsubishi Rayon and Aldila shafts on April 8 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club driving range.

Katsunori Nakashima, assistant manager – carbon fibre & composite material division, graphite shafts department of Mitsubishi Rayon, was on hand to outline the latest shafts and explain their benefits.

“Through the use of meticulous research and advanced technology, our latest golf shafts offer heightened performance characteristics for exceptional feel, power, and consistency,” said Nakashima. “We are growing consistently in terms of sales in this part of the world and our company is focusing more on the South East Asian market. The knowledge of clubfitters here has improved tremendously over the last few years and I think they are on par with their Japanese counterparts now.

“We are very pleased with our distributor here, Vin Sporting House. This is the first time that we are holding an event like this and we hope to continue to do this, as it gives us the chance to

meet with retailers and get their feedback.”

Sukhvinder Singh, founder of Vin Sporting House, noted: “With the debut of these new golf shafts, we hope to be able to provide all existing and new consumers with the perfect shaft that’s compatible with their individual golfing styles and needs.”

Headquartered in Tokyo, Mitsubishi Rayon Co, Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation and has been developing premium graphite golf shafts for more than 25 years. Through their American subsidiary, MRC Golf Inc, they acquired leading American shaft manufacturers Aldila in 2013.

Vin Sporting House is a distributor and wholesaler of golf equipment and accessories, including clubs, components, gloves, bags and carts. Incorporated in 2002, VSH operates out of Kuala Lumpur and has an office in Singapore with businesses in major Asian markets such as Malaysia, Singapore, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand. For more information, visit www.vinsportinghouse.com.

Vin Sporting House founder Sukhvinder Singh flanked by Katsunori Nakashima Dealers and retailers engage in a Longest Drive contest (second from left) and Itou Akinari (second from right) of Mitsubishi Rayon

ParGolf MAY 2015

046-051•InTheBag.May15.indd 49

49

4/23/15 7:41 PM

IN THE BAG

www.mstgolf.com

2015 OnOff Red AKA Driver

BIG & EASY

The 2015 OnOff Red AKA Driver is designed to inspire confidence and high trajectories with easy swings.

The large, confidence-boosting clubhead is constructed with a 6-4 Titanium face, 811 Titanium thin precision casting body and Aluminium alloy hosel. The driver is easy to swing yet produces superb distance with superb acoustics at impact.

It looks great as well with a black gloss finish with striking red OnOff logo, along with an OnOff SD Rubber 44 grip.

Easy Launch The new shell crown design allows a lot of the weight to be repositioned, resulting in the most optimal CG positioning to easily generate high and strong trajectories.

Strong Sound = Great Feel The H-shaped sound spine within the clubhead produces a strong impact sound which is an essential part of creating great feel.

Stable Face Construction The specially engineered variable face thickness results in a wider sweet spot, resulting in consistent ball flight and distance across the entire face.

SRP: Smooth Kick MP-515D shaft – RM2,750 at MST Golf retail outlets

2015 OnOff Forged Kuro Black Irons

FORGED PERFORMANCE Designed for the low- to mid-handicappers seeking soft feel and forgiveness in a semi-players’ profile, the new OnOff Forged Kuro Black Irons are hailed as the best OnOff forged iron to date, “exceeding all previous OnOff forged irons in performance”.

The 3 through 7 irons feature tungsten alloy weights in the sole for extra forgiveness and ease of use. The scoring irons (8, 9, P) meanwhile are solid one-piece forgings to promote accuracy.

Forged by Endo of soft S20C steel, the new irons boast a progressive optimal CG for improved accuracy and performance through tighter shots in the short irons and higher, easy-to-launch shots in the long irons. The laser-milled faces provide spin stability in high and low trajectories, while increasing workability for those who like to shape their shots.

SRP (4-9, P): NS Pro shaft – RM5,200 / Graphite MP715 shaft – RM6,250 at MST Golf retail outlets

50

ParGolf MAY 2015

046-051•InTheBag.May15.indd 50

4/23/15 7:41 PM

www.seemore.com

SeeMore Giant FGP Putter

SIZE DOES MATTER Putter specialists SeeMore have launched the Giant FGP putter, which is essentially an oversized version of the highly-rated original FGP putter.

With dimensions of close to 30% larger than the original, the Giant FGP is easier to align, more forgiving and better balanced – and it feels great as well. The FGP’s unique straight shaft near-centre design means the head is perfectly balanced to the plane of the stroke path, meaning that the putter face will be naturally square or be ‘on plane’ at all times during the putting stroke.

Benefits • Higher MOI and larger sweet spot for increased stability and forgiveness • Larger RST and top sight line for more accurate alignment • Longer blade length makes it easier to square the putter to the intended target line • Face Balanced at Impact – this enhances the feel of keeping the putter on the correct path • Precisely manufactured from 100% milled aluminium with two milled stainless steel sole weights • Retains all the game improvement benefits of the FGP • Better feedback for setup and stroke • SuperStroke grip for more feel and feedback

The Giant FGP (right) next to the original FGP

Technical Details • Length 5.75in, depth 1.6in and face height 1.4in – so while it is exactly to scale vs. the original FGP blade, each of these measurements is 28% larger than the original. This means that the overall putter volume in terms of square inches of the milling block is over 2.5 times that of the original FGP. • The depth and height of the putter is relatively the same as the diameter of a golf ball, and the equator of the ball meets the equator of the milled face to impart a great roll with great feel.

• Head weight is adjustable from 365g to over 400g when used in a counterbalanced version.

SRP: RM1,150 at MST Golf retail outlets

ParGolf MAY 2015

046-051•InTheBag.May15.indd 51

51

4/23/15 7:41 PM

Nick’s Knacks NICK GOH

News and views from the wide, wide world of golf equipment by ParGolf contributor/tester Nick Goh

What Ball?

Here’s a simple guide to choosing the ball that’s right for your game

The Beginner If you are a beginner and need about five or more balls per round (regardless of your score), then you should really consider the cheapest golf balls on the shelf. Usually that would be the twopiece, hard-as-a-rock ball. Since you keep finding trouble and places where you are not able to retrieve the ball, find the cheapest ball that would lower your cost per round. You won’t feel as bad after each round and probably have more courage to try to hit some spectacular shots over a pond or ravine.

Try looking for recycled (used) balls that they sell by the roadside, usually near the golf courses, or grab a few dozen during some golf mega sale. I would recommend balls such as TopFlight XL, Callaway Warbird or Wilson Ultra which are good distance off the tee regardless of your swing speed.

When it’s below RM2 per ball, who cares about the brand and the feel!

The Intermediate Player When your game improves to an intermediate level and you are able to score below the dreaded 100 figure without losing too many balls, then you 52

should start going for balls that would give you a little more feel and control. Cost wise this would usually equate to a slightly more expensive ball. This is when you would look for balls that are two-piece low compression like the Maxfli Noodle, Titleist DT SoLo or Precept Laddie Xtreme, for slow to mid swing speed hitters – a little hard on feel especially around the greens but will give a few more yards off the tee to have a shorter approach shot.

Or if your swing speed is a little faster than 90mph on the driver, you may prefer a two-piece performance ball with a larger core such as the Bridgestone e5, Titleist NXT, Titleist NXT Tour, Srixon Soft Feel or Wilson Staff DX2 Soft. These balls would have a higher spin rate off the irons to enable you to spin the ball a little more on your shots to the greens. The softer ball gives better feel around the greens when you are chipping and putting. If you are able to hit your irons with a steeper angle of attack, there is a good chance that you can go at the flag with a little spin if the greens are not very hard. ©David Cannon/Getty Images

I

n most golf equipment conversations with regard to distance, especially about gaining a few more yards with each shot, the focus is usually around the club – mainly the driver, followed by fairway woods, hybrids and long irons.

However, the most inexpensive way to gain a little more distance and also control is with the right ball. Golf ball technology has transformed the game in many ways. Low compression versus high compression, two-piece versus multilayer construction and, of course, cheap versus expensive – with so many options, how do you choose the right golf ball for your game?

You should start by assessing the level of your game.

The Advanced Player When you have the ability to shape your shots, create some spin on your irons, shoot scores that average lower than 85 and have the confidence to go for the flag with your scoring irons, then the multi-layered high compression balls would be your choice. These golfers usually swing speeds of above 92mph (driver speed) and feel is an important part of their games. To get good distance off these balls, you would need to have a relatively fast swing speed and the ability to contact the ball on the sweet spot.

Balls such as the Bridgestone Golf Tour B330, Callaway Golf HX Tour, Nike One Platinum, Srixon Z-Star, Titleist Pro V1 or Titleist Pro V1x are performance balls that provide the golfer with great feel from tee to green.

Choose urethane cover balls for more spin on shorter shots. You will see mostly tour players using these sorts of balls.

In A Nutshell For distance off the tee, get the twopiece low compression balls – a little harder on the feel but less painful on the wallet. Don’t try those illegal balls!

(Illegal golf balls include Cayman Desperado, Cayman Pirate and Fireball.

They are a bit smaller in diameter, a little heavier and have a core that is designed for maximum velocity. But remember, they are non-conforming balls.)

For softer feel around the greens without losing too much distance, try the two-piece high compression balls.

For maximum spin and control, go with the multi-layered performance balls. Do note that you would need to have a higher swing speed to get some good distance – otherwise, you may sacrifice distance for control and feel.

Happy Golfing! PG

ParGolf MAY 2015

052•Nick'sKnacks.May15.indd 52

4/23/15 2:33 PM

053•Advt.Cobra.May15.indd 53

4/24/15 10:03 AM

ESSENTIALS

BOLD NEW BIODRIVE PUMA GOLF

Designed for performance, training and versatility on and off the course, BioDrive by Puma Golf features three specialised zones that provide superior grip and control on course, utilising multiple decoupled octagon-shaped pods in the forefoot for flexibility and increased ground contact and traction.

The BioDrive’s silhouette mimics an athletic shoe while the outsole, inspired by features of a traditional golf shoe, contains 10 strategically-positioned octagons providing 130 unique points of traction. Its waterproof performance rip-stop mesh upper, meanwhile, is lightweight and breathable, and the carbon rubber in the outsole ensures excellent grip and long-lasting durability.

SRP: RM449

TW ’15 RAISES THE BAR NIKE GOLF

The new Nike TW ’15 shoe is Woods’ latest signature golf shoe and the first to feature the brand’s breakthrough Flyweave technology in the upper. Each iteration of the TW series has featured a Nike Free-inspired outsole, and the TW ’15 raises the bar again by integrating Dynamic Flywire into a Flyweave upper with a Nike Free outsole, resulting in a golf shoe that provides increased stability, fit and flexibility.

Due to the lightweight Flyweave technology and the golf-specific Nike Free-inspired outsole, designers were able to make the TW ’15 10 percent lighter than the previous model.

The traction elements in the toe are shaped like octopus beaks, while the rubber in the tip and the heel are inspired by shark scales.

POWERFUL RH2 LASER LINK

Knowledge is power, and that applies to the golfer on the course too! The RH2 rangefinder is ideal for the player who wants more – more information, more range, more power. It combines all of the high performance attributes of the Red Hot rangefinder into a smaller, lighter weight, yet more powerful package.

Functions include: red dot alignment aid for easy targeting • large, easy-toread external LCD screen • measures up to 1,000 yards Available at all MST Golf stores.

SRP: RM1,250

SRP: RM819 M819

54

ParGolf MAY 2015

054•Essentials.May15.indd 54

4/24/15 9:49 AM

pass me the soap melvin poi The locker room yak on all things golf and non-golf

Tiger, I (Gladly) Eat My Words With a strong Masters performance that belied his recent on-course struggles, Tiger Woods showed that he is far from a spent force

T

iger Woods fooled us all.

He led us down the garden path and in the last 12 months scattered indiscreet clues about his frail health and debilitated form. There had been no outward signs of optimism or any little shoots of hope to show. His body had become a ravaged, injury-prone wreck.

Wild as ever off the tee, his distances were increasingly curtailed too. His irons still held up but he couldn’t convert his good shots, so patchy was his putting. And his short game, the root of the problem, was embarrassingly bad.

And so we duly connected the dots and arrived at one inescapable conclusion – that Tiger Eldrick Woods was totalled, a write-off consigned to the wrecker’s yard.

Like the rest of the world, I was anxious to see how Woods would perform at the Masters, a tournament he had not won in 10 years. I wasn’t expecting good things. The memory of his frightful play from the Phoenix Waste Management Open where he missed the cut and was tied for last place after two rounds were still all too vivid.

Golf Channel’s Gary Williams and Damon Hack had all but written off Woods’ chances, calling it “nothing short of a miracle” if he were to win.

Actually they were being polite, what they really meant was that it would have been nothing short of a miracle if he produced anything resembling PGA Tour-level golf. Greg Norman said that Woods had “mentally unravelled”, probably not too far off the truth.

They say that time stands still at Augusta National. And indeed the confident and beaming Tiger Woods that arrived at this year’s Masters looked like a person who had teleported himself from the past, somehow circumnavigating all the years of indifferent form, doubt, uncertainty and poor health, not to

mention a tawdry divorce. He had arrived on the Monday before the tournament and from all accounts had put in a couple of great practice rounds – the indications were encouraging. He looked like a rebooted and virus-free Tiger Woods.

At the end of the four days, Woods finished at five-under in tied 17th place, which under the circumstances was quite phenomenal. What was impressive in my mind was how much desire and purpose he displayed. It was clear that Woods had his inner belief back.

More importantly, his short game once again became his weapon. Woods pitched deftly from impossibly tight lies and got the ball to grab and spin at exactly the right places. I watched the Masters for all four days and I did not witness a single chip of Woods’ that wasn’t executed to perfection. How can a man play so awfully just 10 weeks ago and then come out under the most

This was the Tiger Woods of old, the one who took up permanent residence on the first page of the leaderboard for most of the week, the one who made the difficult par saves, the brash competitor who believed he could win no matter how far back he was.

intense of scrutiny and perform so unrecognisably well? It was aweinspiring, baffling and extraordinary all at once.

Even more importantly, Woods was really competing again and not just making up the numbers. He was completely focused on every shot, he became animated when he made or missed putts, he conjured Seve-like escapes from the trees and he even threw in the odd f-bomb or two for old times’ sake.

This was the Tiger Woods of old, the one who took up permanent residence on the first page of the leaderboard for most of the week, the one who made the difficult par saves, the brash competitor who believed he could win no matter how far back he was.

Potentially the biggest story in golf for the past few years has been the question of whether Woods would ever, could ever, return to his very best form.

And at this year’s Masters, we were treated to a surreal re-enactment of times past. I was elated.

If Woods can keep his revival going, then I’ve got a feeling that we’re going to be in for a brilliant summer of golf! PG

ParGolf MAY 2015

055•PassMeTheSoap.May15.indd 55

55

4/23/15 2:31 PM

CONGRATULATIONS! Winners & Nominees for 2014

Malaysian Junior Golfer Of The Year – Male Galven Kendall Green (Winner) Adam Ariff Bryan Teoh Wiyang Daeng Abdul Rahman Khavish Varman

Malaysian Amateur Golfer Of The Year – Female Nur Durriyah Damian (Winner) Dianne Luke Genevieve Ling I Rynn Iman Ahmad Nordin Vivienne Chin Ven Yi

Malaysian Junior Golfer Of The Year – Female Natasha Andrea Oon (Winner) Ashley Lau Jen Wen Geraldine Wong Xiao Xuan Siti Zulaika Shaari Winnie Ng

Malaysian Amateur Golfer Of The Year – Male Gavin Kyle Green (Winner) Chan Tuck Soon Ervin Chang Low Khai Jei Muhammad Wafiyuddin Muhd Afif Mohd Razif

056-057•MalaysianGolfAwards.May15.indd 56

Malaysian Professional Golfer Of The Year – Male Arie Irawan (Winner) Airil Rizman Danny Chia Nicholas Fung R Nachimuthu

Malaysian Professional Golfer Of The Year – Female Kelly Tan (Winner) Ainil Johani Abu Bakar Aretha Pan Jean Chua Michelle Koh

4/23/15 2:56 PM

Best New Golf Course

Asian Golfer Of The Year – Male

The Els Club Teluk Datai (Winner)

Anirban Lahiri

Most Improved Golf Course

Asian Golfer Of The Year – Female

Staffield Country Resort (Winner) Danau Golf Club Gunung Raya Golf Resort Kelab Golf Sultan Ahmad Shah Cameron Highlands Nilai Springs Golf & Country Club

Inbee Park

Best Maintained Golf Course

Comeback Golfer Of The Year

Kota Permai Golf & Country Club (Joint Winner) Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (Joint Winner) Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club Palm Garden Golf Club Royal Selangor Golf Club Taiping Golf Resort Templer Park Country Club The Els Club Teluk Datai Tropicana Golf & Country Resort

Danny Chia

Best Overall Golf Experience

Most Innovative Golf Equipment

The Els Club Teluk Datai (Winner) Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club Kota Permai Golf & Country Club Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club Palm Garden Golf Club Samarahan Country Club Templer Park Country Club The Mines Resort & Golf Club Tropicana Golf & Country Resort

Callaway Big Bertha Alpha 815 Driver Mizuno JPX 850 Forged Irons Ping G30 Driver TaylorMade R15 Driver Titleist Vokey Design SM5 Wedges

Golf Club Of The Year

USGA Handicap System Club Compliance Award

Britney Yap Emily Kate May Ezekiel Riz Hafi Jayden Oh Zhen Poh

Lim Eng Seng Rizal Amin

Outstanding Performance Of The Year Malaysian Causeway Trophy Team

Merit Award For Services To Golf (posthumous) Capt. William Eustace Van Geyzel

Lifetime Achievement Award (posthumous) Tun Dato’ Seri Abdul Hamid Omar

Outstanding Contribution To Golf 100Plus (F&N Beverages Marketing Sdn Bhd) Saujana Golf & Country Club TSM Charity Golf Foundation

Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (Winner) Glenmarie Golf & Country Club Kota Permai Golf & Country Club Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club Templer Park Country Club

Young Gun Awards

Breakthrough Golfer Of The Year

Kelab Golf Negara Subang Kelab Golf Perkhidmatan Awam Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Kelab Rahman Putra Malaysia Monterez Golf & Country Club Royal Perak Golf Club Royal Selangor Golf Club Samarahan Country Club

www.malaysiangolfawards.com

056-057•MalaysianGolfAwards.May15.indd 57

4/23/15 2:56 PM

almost ob loo keng yip

Intrepid photographer and long drive proponent Loo Keng Yip gives his rather slanted view on all things golf

High On 5s Where does the appeal of back-to-back par 5s stem from? Let’s break it down

A

fter a friend and I had got the better of the 5th hole at Kelab Golf Sri Selangor (KGSS), he said he had been part of a magical foursome a week earlier. They had ALL birdied not only the 5th but even 4th before it! Both are par fives. Standing on the next tee with a broad smile basking in our recent success and having played KGSS often enough, I realised that the warm fuzzy feeling had started even as we had approached the back-to-back (b2b) par 5s. Over the years I have noticed that a good number of flight-mates, old friends or even first time acquaintances, really relish the thought of playing b2b par 5s. Note that this is a ‘before-thefact’ condition and not dependent on whether we score well on the par 5s at all! Why is this so? Why is it that we approach the b2b par 5s with a positive frame of mind?

58

If you count yourself amongst those whose emotions aren’t especially stirred by b2b par 5s one way or another, then consider this ... I can’t think of anyone whose face lights up when they come across a pair of b2b par 4s. Can you?

Perhaps the very “lack of uniqueness” offers some insight to the question at hand. I guess we fully expect to play plain Jane, bog standard b2b par 4s.

Every golf course ever created has them. LOTS of them!

B2b par 5s are rather unique then.

Consider also that b2b par 3s are especially rare and even more unique.

But I can’t imagine that there will be quite the same appeal. It would be a little like knocking out balls to the flag on the driving range. Not quite the same buzz.

Let’s play amateur shrink, shall we?

Perhaps the b2b par 5s appeal to our insecurities. Even stand-alone par 5s by nature are the most forgiving type of hole out there. It is not unusual to walk away with a par, sometimes better, even if we had messed up a shot getting to the green. Given three strokes to reach

the putting surface, catching a fairway bunker off the drive, screwing up a shot – maybe even two – along the way does not instantly relegate one to the triple bogey or “others” league.

On the other hand, doing well on par 3s and especially getting the better of par 4s leaves less room for error. I suspect that the positive attitude attached to b2b par 5s has to do with feeling that we have been cut a break.

It is as if the course were “on our side” and not testing us for a change. And we all could do with a break. Putting not one but a pair of nice friendly par 5s together is something of a bonus then.

Perhaps every hole on all the golf courses in heaven are par 5s and a round to par adds up to 90!

But enough with the quacky psychoanalysis and wishful mathematics already. The 4th and 5th at KGSS, and coincidentally the 4th and 5th holes at Palm Garden GC, are b2b par 5s. These are the pairs that come to mind at the moment. I wouldn’t mind seeing a few more.

Drive long and prosper. PG

ParGolf MAY 2015

058•AlmostOB.May15.indd 58

4/23/15 2:30 PM

PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB

The SIX PACK Having played Palm Garden many moons ago, Loo Keng Yip revisits the course for a unique six-ball game and falls in love all over again

P

©ParGolf

arGolf previewed Palm Garden Golf Club (PGGC) prior to its official opening three years ago. We were back for a revisit with a “twist”. The course had showed every sign of becoming a top-notch club and we were keen to see how the grounds had matured since.

Even if PGGC was built where an older course had existed, IOI had essentially constructed a new course from scratch. Home to some of the Klang Valley’s best fairways, greens, bunkers and a stunning clubhouse overlooking the 18th green, had Palm Garden also kept up on the necessary course maintenance?

Straight off I am pleased to report that no short cuts appear to have been

60

taken. Buggies are allowed practically unrestricted fairway access, bar par threes, tee boxes and greens of course.

Torrential rain had hit several days in succession prior to our game and yet buggies were still allowed on course, which speaks volumes about having first put in the correct underlying structure. Great fairways don’t just happen.

So what’s the “twist”? What’s different? Breaking with tradition PGGC allows up to six players per flight. Yes, you read right. That’s one additional buggy, two additional flightmates, three caddies, six players, half a dozen drivers, putters and balls – pretty much a party on wheels and a great excuse to have even more fun than usual.

Six-pack? This is not a lament about the loss of youthful abs. And neither was any beer harmed or otherwise abused in the making of this article.

Though perhaps, vanishing abs and beer may share more than just a casual relationship for the mates I called on.

They jumped at the chance, immediately confirming they would play. PGGC appears to already have a solid reputation.

We were a six-pack! Surprisingly whilst we resembled a rugby scrum especially when fooling around on the tees and greens, we never got in each other’s way when it really mattered.

This is not your standard everyday round. If you enjoy the camaraderie of more than a handful of friends but have had to split into two groups for golf,

Hole 18, Par 4

ParGolf MAY 2015

060-063•Palm Garden.May15.indd 60

4/23/15 7:18 PM

Hole 14, Par 3

front bunkers. They present a narrow gauntlet through to the pin. Two more bunkers lie waiting at the rear. Let’s just say the approach requires a tad more focus than had the first two holes.

With luck, the nervous butterflies would have departed by the time you reach the fourth. This downhill 456m par five appears shorter than its index 3 rating suggests. The large inviting green can be reached in two … if one doesn’t thin the approach into the lake

If you enjoy the camaraderie of more than a handful of friends but have had to split into two groups for golf, then the six-player flight could be just the ticket.

in front of the green like moi! There’s no excuse as the ball sits up really well, one of the endearing features of the excellent fairways. A stint at the driving range earlier would have been good.

Opting instead for a lengthy breakfast with my mates, I didn’t warm up.

There’s no legitimate excuse as PGGC’s driving range is so close and accessible, in matchplay, it would surely be ‘given’.

The driving range deck plays directly out of one side of the clubhouse right above the changing rooms and buggy station which is itself mere steps away from the bag drop, proshop and restaurant. There’s a multi-tiered car park below. Every amenity is close at hand. One may debate the aesthetics but there’s no denying the clubhouse is very functional.

Holes 4 and 5 are back-to-back par fives; a layout many seem to like, followed by a par three and two par fours. The front nine concludes with an interesting 320m par four with a wide fairway. Most should be able to drive and pitch on in regulation. The “interesting” bit comes in the form of a small but rather deep bunker strategically positioned in line and just short of the green.

The 9th would almost be gleefully simple but for the impunity of that tiny trap. It practically mocks one to try a high risk lob just clear to the front edge

©ParGolf

then the six-player flight could be just the ticket. More is better. Those not shy of wagering on games will also see gains. A larger prize pool? At the very least, there is a chance someone ‘has your six’. Invaluable for the usual joshing that occurs whenever good friends gather.

PGGC will grant as many six ball flights per day as are requested, so long as they do not disrupt the flow of play.

That said, it is always advisable to call ahead and check.

PGGC is open year round. Work goes on in the background seven days a week. I am also pleased to note that groundskeeping staff promptly muted their machines when we played through. This common courtesy is not always practiced elsewhere. It is here.

PGGC also integrates with IOI group’s shopping mall and nearby hotels to offer a full resort experience. Groups are easily accommodated.

The first fairway, a dogleg right sits snugly in a shallow valley between low hills. It is as if it was designed to channel nervous opening tee shots back towards the centre. This is a great confidence-building start and so is Hole 2. The 130m par three has a generous green with bunkers kindly set well out of the way. The third plays straight as an arrow but standing sentry are a couple of deep character-building green

ParGolf MAY 2015

060-063•Palm Garden.May15.indd 61

61

4/23/15 7:18 PM

PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB

©ParGolf

of the green, to roll out short and stop hole-high. Like a rebellious kid past his bedtime, the puny little bunker demands attention. The smart play was to ignore the ‘kid’, aim for the side of the green, then sink a long two-putt for par, or walk off with a bogey at most.

We did ‘smart’, as in hurt! The tiny trap, little more than a sand-filled bathtub really, tripped us up.

The back nine starts off with a sparsely bunkered uphill par five. Call it efficiency on the part of the course designer, Ted Parslow, or something rather less praiseworthy on our part but the fairway bunker, tucked almost completely out of the way on the right, sucked us in.

“We are a public course and there are no constraints with members’ requirements, and six-ball is very popular in Thailand, so we decided to introduce the six-ball flight shortly after we opened in 2012.

It’s good for the business, it’s good for golfers who enjoy playing in six-ball and it gives people a choice.

Now we have quite a number of regular six-ball groups and we average two or three a day.”

BRANDON CHIN, GENERAL MANAGER, PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB

62

It is said that golf is only as difficult as we make it. Case in point: Hole 11.

Steeply downhill and just 314m requiring 250m or so to carry a bit of water short of the green. Five wise men knocked down long irons and pitched on for par. I fanned my driver into the water ... and didn’t.

On the other hand there are some wild, clearly ‘undomesticated’ holes.

They are dangerous and difficult any way you look at them. The 12th is one such animal. Just 145m and deceptively indexed at 14 in play are large deep bunkers immediately in front and to the left of the green. The putting surface is deep but has just a tiny plateau at the very front which then races away towards the back and left. The pin was perched precariously on the trailing edge of this small level patch. We got a little roughed up by Hole 12, a par three no less!

The 13th is a hole where local knowledge, or a good caddie, goes a long way. The lateral water hazard all along the right impinges deeper into the fairway than one can see. A dogleg right the fairway also slopes from right to left and we play from positions almost always below the level of the right edge. The 13th is rated a stiff index 2 for good reason.

Then comes the amazing par-three 14th. The tee boxes are built on a cascade of small rocky islands accessed via stone bridges. Black and blue tees built higher and further away, the white tees lower and closer to the pin and so on. Water flows around the tee box islands and under the bridges. Very scenic indeed.

The 15th is another par five – 487m off the blue tees and played much in line with its index 10 rating. Then came the shortest par four and easiest hole on the course – the 16th is indexed 18 and is just 307m long. Playing conservatively with irons off the tee, most of the six-

pack found themselves attempting two putt pars whilst I scrambled to recover from my most viciously sliced drive of the day for bogey. Easiest hole? You bet!

The par-three 17th pitches out 135m to what is effectively a large island green. Water on the front and left and stuff you’d rather stay out of elsewhere.

The green is deep and even slightly over or under-clubbing should not result in too much trouble.

We had reached the final hole. With the green set out on a peninsular, this is where courageous play might result in upsets and leaderboard swings. It is also dramatic for other reasons. The 18th is a 350m par four playing to an index 4. PGGC was not designed as a championship course, even if an ever increasing number of tournaments are being held here. For many, the closing hole is also about taking in the view from the tee box with the stylish clubhouse in the valley below, or alternately, looking out and up at the fairway from the clubhouse with the lake and green in its shadow. A most picturesque hole.

Before tee-off, some had voiced tiny reservations about playing in a six-ball flight. It is not entirely unreasonable to think that there would be delays. We put our round on the clock and found that in practice those initial fears proved to be largely unfounded. There is little difference in the length of time it took to bring in our six-ball as it is to play a usual foursome.

This wasn’t because we were all playing like Jordan Spieth. Between the six of us we had managed to thoroughly inspect a good number of PGGC’s 77 excellent bunkers and other odd bits of rough. We carded pretty average rounds and still came back in slightly over the typical four and a half hours.

We thoroughly enjoyed our six-ball experience and would have to give six

CARD OF THE COURSE HOLE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

BLACK 350 140 353 456 492 401 199 336 320

BLUE WHITE 316 307 109 130 353 322 456 443 492 473 401 369 166 180 312 290 320 283

RED 297 92 292 438 428 349 137 269 265

OUT 3,047 2,960 2,762 2,567 ALL DISTANCES IN METRES

PAR INDEX 4 9 3 17 4 11 5 3 5 5 4 1 3 7 4 15 4 13 36

HOLE 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

BLACK 494 341 145 471 164 523 307 153 382

BLUE WHITE RED 470 439 406 314 294 280 127 145 104 439 471 411 117 141 100 487 467 448 307 289 269 117 135 110 310 350 283 2,411

36

TOTAL 6,027 5,780 5,361 4,978

72

IN

2,980 2,820 2,599

PAR INDEX 5 6 4 16 3 14 5 2 3 8 5 10 4 18 3 12 4 4

ParGolf MAY 2015

060-063•Palm Garden.May15.indd 62

4/23/15 7:18 PM

‘thumbs-up‘ for the smooth, consistent 10.0+ Tifdwarf greens. Half a dozen more for the clean level tee boxes and great hybrid Zoysia fairways. The wellraked bunkers held soft white sand.

Even the ‘rough’ was tidy!

Gone are the tall thickets of scraggly grass I recall from that round years ago. Local rules allow for a free drop from flower beds and for when rain-washed crevices actually do show up in the otherwise excellent bunkers.

From introducing six-ball flights to applying appropriate local rules and conscientious course maintenance, to having a restaurant with standards of service and food that starred restaurants wouldn’t be ashamed to call their own and a golfer’s terrace which in my book sees off just about every other, PGGC should meet or exceed the expectations of any resort course patron.

Apart from an apparent glitch on the 12th hole pin placement which had a degree of difficulty worthy of a major tournament on final day, the course offers a good balance between easy holes and challenging ones. The amazing thing is that Palm Garden GC offers some of Malaysia’s best fairways and greens on a course open to the public. The kicker is that one can also experience them with a bunch of friends in a single six-pack flight. PG

OF GEESE & GOATS Don’t be surprised if you hear loud honking as you approach the 13th hole – no, the noise is not from traffic but from eight geese who call the lake here their home! The leader of the pack is a mischievous male named Pepe, who was actually born at the club.

Palm Garden also recently brought in three Boer goats from South Africa to usher in the Lunar Year of the Goat. Kept in a shady ax, Brownie and enclosure near the clubhouse, Max, addy are extremely frisky and friendly – and Maddy have been known to bound over the fence!

“The geese have been around for two years he and the goats were brought in this year. The reason we have these animals around is to provide some connectivity with nature and it provides a soft touch. It’s nice to see the geese running around and making noise – it livens things up and people like it,” said Palm Garden general manager Brandon Chin.

“Urban people especially appreciate it as some of them don’t even know what a goose looks like!”

FACT FILE

Address: IOI Resort City, 62502 Putrajaya Tel: +603-8213 6333 Fax: +603-8213 6388

WHAT IT’LL COST YOU

Website: www.palmgarden.net.my

Green Fees: Weekdays – RM280 / Weekends – RM470

GPS: N 2.965467 / E 101.716977

Buggy: RM110

Holes: 18 Grass: Tees and fairways - Hybrid Zoysia / Rough - Zoysia Matrella / Greens -

Caddie: RM80

Tifdwarf Designer: Ted Parslow Year Opened: 2012

Contact the club for latest rates and promotions.

A FAIRER PERSPECTIVE IDA FAHANY

©Loo Keng Yip/ParGolf

“Have you played on this course?” asked a colleague of mine. This was right after the soft launch of the newly-refurbished Palm Garden Golf Club nearly three years ago. Back then I hadn’t but now, boy am I enjoying it! It’s nothing but superb greens and a breathtakingly beautiful layout.

What used to be a nicely-laid three nines have now been turned into an 18-hole expanse that is the talk of the town. The new Palm Garden Golf Club, comprising the Eugenia and Bismark Nines, offers joy and thrill to golfers.

for granted. When you think you’re playing well and the course is a great help, there are certain holes that you should pay particular attention to. The opening hole is one of them. With uphill 5,605 layout all the way 5,008 72right TOTAL 6,382an5,996 to a two-tiered green tucked nicely at the ALL IN METRES rightDISTANCES side, I would think really hard before making my club selection for my third shot.

Two clubs higher is the best selection for me.

Palm Garden’s back nine is a risk-and-reward layout that enables you to go home with a smile – or praying that the sun is still up so that you can play it again! Hole 18 has a downhill layout with an elongated pond on

the left and a cluster of bunkers on the right.

One bad bounce and your ball will fall into either the pond or into one of the bunkers.

Long hitters can breathe a sigh of relief as they can carry these two hurdles and concentrate on hitting a great second shot into the peninsula green. Par is achievable but birdies are hard to come by.

If you plan to play here during this hot period, pack up on those liquids to quench your thirst during an 18-hole round. If you don’t, there are halfway huts loaded with snacks and beverages. And the staff are super friendly too!

Even though this course is among the youngest courses in Malaysia, it requires certain mental capabilities and maturity to deliver good results. Do not take anything

©ParGolf

Playing off the red tees is fairly easy for ladies of all playing levels. I find that this course ‘tries’ very hard for you to play well, with all the strategically-placed bunkers and well-thought-out water hazards. And the fairways are nicely turfed so your club can trap the golf ball at the sweet spot at the perfect time. That’s exactly how I feel every time I tee it up at Palm Garden.

ParGolf MAY 2015

060-063•Palm Garden.May15.indd 63

63

4/23/15 7:18 PM

health chat dr. glenN cameron

Glenn Cameron D.C (doctor of chiropractic) (USA) is a chiropractor formerly with the Tonik Asia Group of Malaysia.

He is currently based in Miri, Sarawak. Email: homewhereibelong@gmail.com

Performance Golf

What you eat and what you prepare for do make a difference

M

ost performance is based on your blood sugar. Too high/too low and you can expect your game to be affected. High blood sugar equates to diabetes, while the opposite often occurs, ie low blood sugar. Ideally you’d have even blood sugars and be tested on each hole.

Does this affect my golf game?

Blood sugars too high – you’re diabetic.

Symptoms include but are not limited to excessive hunger, thirst and increased urination. When you understand diabetes, it makes sense. High blood sugars mean insulin resistance. In a nutshell, normally you’re sensitive to insulin (hormone released from the beta cells of your pancreas whenever about a teaspoonful of sugar [glucose] is detected in your blood). Insulin transfers nutrients into your cells. With insulin resistance you’re always hungry as your cells (all 400 quadrillion of them approximately) need energy. If you feel like you’re starving, well, you are.

Insulin can no longer carry energy to your cells. All foods become blood sugar – even fats and proteins.

Next is excessive thirst.

Carbohydrate food/sugar lets your cells absorb and hold water (especially muscles). Not enough carbohydrates and your cells can’t retain sugars; the fluids are NOT retained in your cells so your water goes directly through you.

If your cells are starving for energy, it’ll make you dizzy. Just try to tee off or putt while you’re dizzy.

So far we’ve discussed the major symptoms of diabetes but there’s much more dependent upon how long you’ve had high sugars. Current estimates put Indonesia and Malaysia at 65% of their population with diabetes (no accurate data) but they love sugar/sweet. I find it so interesting that prior to the introduction of sugar to the masses, diabetes was a condition limited to the rich and was totally rare.

64

A low blood sugar episode is rarely forgotten. Whenever you eat simple sugars like candy, syrup or other sweets (it takes a lot – sugars mix in your stomach with fats and proteins moderating your sugar response), your blood sugar rises rapidly and thanks to the release of insulin it falls almost as precipitously. I’ve experienced shaking and confusion as my blood sugar drops but others have reported trembling, clam-like skin, pounding fast heart beats, anxiety (fear of the unknown), sweating, hunger, as well as irritability.

Your brain (which controls everything) also has trouble thinking (poor cognition) or you may have a headache, seizures or coma.

Eating alkalizing foods helps; this means that much of your food should be lemons, limes, grapefruits, figs and apricots (re-hydrated), dates (caution – dates are very sweet), tomatoes, mangos, pears, apples, papayas, avocados, watercress, fennel, asparagus, cauliflower or celery. Also eat onion, fresh ginger, garlic, beetroots, kelp, spinach and parsley plus coriander. Great alkaline seeds include sesame, pumpkin, sunflower and their oils, while nuts include almonds, pecans, walnuts and their oils. You may also enjoy brown rice, quinoa and

buckwheat (caution – strong flavour).

Scientific research says an alkaline diet with fewer processed foods may take a golfer to the next level. Simple additions or deletions like eating more greens and drinking lemon water improves your golf performance. Do not eat differently than normal only on competition days, practice what and when you eat. Too much fibre on a competition day is a mistake. Fibre recommended for good bowel function can also cause constipation. On the 16th hole it’s NOT FUN, so cut back on your veggies (fibre) several days prior to competition.

A few sips of your favourite beverage are indicated. Whatever works for you. Practice timing prior to your big day and eat a few hours before you golf. Food, alcohol and soft drinks may feel good but they adversely affect your performance. Soft drinks are salt water disguised by sugar and carbonation.

Your body is at least 70% water. Stay hydrated knowing that all your joints and muscles need water.

Your spinal discs are about 85% water.

The message? Sip constantly.

Have a great game and always remember – it’s NOT how you play, it’s whether you win! PG

ParGolf MAY 2015

064•Healthchat.May15.indd 64

4/23/15 2:28 PM

RAISE YOUR GAME

LEARN FROM THE PROS: IAN POULTER

MY FAVE PUTTING AIDS Some nifty gadgets that I use to get my putting on-line

©Warren Little/Getty Images

BY IAN POULTER

ParGolf MAY 2015

065-067•LearnFromThePros.May15.indd 65

65

4/24/15 10:00 AM

RAISE YOUR GAME

There are two putting aids that I use, but they only really make an appearance once or twice a year for an hour to check everything is working properly.

The first gadget I use is called the PathFinder, and I use this to make sure that: 1. when I take the putter back it tracks slightly inside the line 2. as the putter head strikes the ball, the clubface is completely square.

On the way through the PathFinder, the putter head passes between the forward pegs slightly on an inside line. The putter head only just passes between the magnetised pegs and, if I am fractionally off line, the pegs get pinged off. You don’t have to set it up as severely as I do; there are many settings to accommodate any size of putter head and any ability of player.

The old-fashioned mirror (below right) works wonders and I have had this one for years. It simply helps me check that my eyes are always over the top of the ball and that they haven’t crept out of line.

66

ParGolf MAY 2015

065-067•LearnFromThePros.May15.indd 66

4/24/15 10:00 AM

A BIT OF FUN I used to play this game with my brother growing up, and now my son Luke likes to try and beat me. We find two holes on the putting green anywhere from 6 to 15 feet apart, normally with a little break in it. I stand at one hole and Luke stands at the other. The idea is that I have a go at putting into Luke’s hole, and he will then get the chance to have a go putting into mine. If Luke holes the putt then he is one up. At this point, we change sides and go again. The winner is the first person to get to 5 or 10, depending on the length of putts you are trying. This game will give you a chance to whole out putts from right to left and vice versa, up and downhill, in a fun but competitive way. It is something we do all the time.

I hope you have enjoyed this little insight into how I approach holing out, and I honestly believe that if you spend some time practising these drills, you will quickly improve and lower your scores.

Happy putting!

ParGolf MAY 2015

065-067•LearnFromThePros.May15.indd 67

67

4/24/15 10:01 AM

RAISE YOUR GAME

PLAY YOUR BEST GOLF NOW! WITH ANDREW MYLES

CHIPPING ON THE UP! Improve your score with consistent chip shots

One of the key metrics in statistical analysis of how to improve scoring averages is a player’s ability from 120 yards from the green, commonly known as the chip shot. Many amateur players struggle to find consistency and predictability on their basic chip shot around the green due to poor strike.

Hitting the ground too early before the ball (heavy shot) or hitting the middle of the ball only (thin shot) are two common occurrences with many players seen to be “scooping” or “flicking” the ball.

68

ParGolf MAY 2015

068-069•PlayYourBestGolf.May15.indd 68

4/24/15 10:01 AM

PYBGN FIX: UNDERSTAND THE BASIC CONCEPT TO IMPROVE YOUR CHIPPING The general consensus is that we must hit down to hit a great chip shot, which is strictly true, but the idea and concept has been misinterpreted leading to the idea that the hands should also move down during the shot. Here is where the problem lies – let me explain:

Due to some excellent research done by PGA Professional Andrew Rice on The Wedge Project and as demonstrated in the accompanying pictures, that in order for the clubhead to “land” on the ground and create an effective long flat spot at the bottom of the swing arc, we must have the hands and the handle of the club working upwards before we strike the ball. This allows us to utilise the bounce of wedge for better turf interaction and consistency of strike.

If we continue to move the hands downwards through the ball we create a lack of space for the clubhead to move through the ball, requiring a sudden rising up of the body and shortening of the club through a

cupping of the lead wrist to allow the club to pass. This creates a very short flat spot giving an inconsistent strike and varied loft on the club. The nett result is inconsistency.

To improve, we need to utilise our lead leg pivot to allow the lead wrist to stay flat and passive for consistency. Use the left leg only drill to feel how the small pivot in the lead leg allows the lead wrist to stay flat and give consistency in the strike. Be aware of the gentle rising of your belt line through the strike – this is good indication that the pivot has taken place. Take this feeling into your main chip shot technique with an passive lead wrist and better strikes are on the way!

Based at the JNG Golf Academy at Tropicana Golf & Country Club since 2011, AA British PGA professional Andrew Myles came to Malaysia in 2003 to take up a coaching post in Sabah. He became state coach within a year and coached a number of juniors who went on to represent the country. Andrew moved to Kuala Lumpur in 2009 to help start the Mizuno Golf Academy and is the first Mizuno-Certified Instructor outside of Japan. He is also a top 50 US Kids Golf coach and a certified instructor for the AimPoint Green-Reading System, as well as a qualified and experienced clubfitter. For more information, log on to www. jnggolf.com or email andrew@jnggolf.com

ParGolf MAY 2015

068-069•PlayYourBestGolf.May15.indd 69

69

4/24/15 10:01 AM

RAISE YOUR GAME

GOLF FORELADIES WITH KURIKO TSUKIYAMA

SAND SAVER

How to master the long bunker shot

1. USE THE RIGHT CLUB Just because it is called a sand wedge doesn't mean we have to use it

Make sure to let the club follow through! With a bit of practice, you will build up enough confidence to trust that the club will do the job of getting the ball up to the green for you.

70

every time the ball is in a bunker! Feel free to – no, in fact please take a club with less loft so that you can get the ball to carry all the way to the hole. Depending on the length of the shot, you can use up to a 9-iron.

Just open the clubface and set up to the ball like a normal bunker shot.

A good drill is to draw a line in the sand and set up to the line as if it was the ball. Make a few swings and check the entry points. If the clubhead enters the sand inconsistently – sometimes early and sometimes late in relation to the line – practice until the entry point is uniform! Using a 9-iron will be pointless if you hit the sand 10cm behind the ball.

©Donald Miralle/Getty Images

The long bunker shot is one of the hardest shots in golf. A standard, greenside bunker shot is definitely hard enough, but lengthen it to 20 or 30 yards and the level of difficulty sky-rockets!

I see a pattern when it comes to the long bunker shot and ladies. We all tend to leave it way short! Here are some tips to getting the ball out and onto the green, illustrated by two photos of World No 1 Lydia Ko.

ParGolf MAY 2015

070-071•Foreladies.May15.indd 70

4/24/15 9:49 AM

©Donald Miralle/Getty Images

Allow your head to turn toward the target only after the club exits the impact zone – this will help ensure that the club enters the sand at the correct point.

2. SWING IN RHYTHM When we see the pin so far away, what do we do? We swing harder, trying to force the ball to reach the green. As a result, we end up swinging too fast, making contact too far away or right on the ball.

So what we don't want to happen, happens – ie leaving the ball in the bunker or blading it across the green. Typical, right? Well, it doesn't have to be that way!

Opt for a smooth swing and you'll see less of those misses.

Aim for a spot in the sand closer to the ball than in a greenside bunker shot (ie 2 or 3cm instead of 6 or 7cm) and focus on that spot. Make a full turn back and try to get the clubhead to enter at the spot you picked out. Make sure to let the club follow through! With a bit of practice, you will build up enough confidence to trust

that the club will do the job of getting the ball up to the green for you.

3. BE PATIENT! Don't look for the ball as soon as you hit it.

If you look up too soon, chances are you'll see the ball flying way over your intended target.

Allow your head to turn toward the target only after the club exits the impact zone – this will help ensure that the club enters the sand at the correct point.

You will have to be patient in seeing improvement as well. Like I said earlier, the long bunker shot from 20 to 30 yards is one of the hardest shots in golf.

Practice so you can get the clubhead entering the sand at a consistent point and with good rhythm and you will soon see results.

Based at the K’s Island Golf Academy in Kuala Lumpur, Kuriko Tsukiyama was born and raised in the United States and took up golf at age seven. She has worked with renowned coaches such as David Leadbetter, David Glenz and Don Law and was a prolific junior golfer with an impressive record – including a victory in the 2010 New Jersey Women’s Amateur.

Kuriko still dreams of playing on the LPGA Tour and continues to work towards her goal while teaching at K’s Island, utilizing the proven teaching methods of one of Japan’s top tour coaches, Keita Uemura. For more information, call 03-6411 6656 or log on to ksisland.asia.

ParGolf MAY 2015

070-071•Foreladies.May15.indd 71

71

4/24/15 9:49 AM

CityVa r PATTAYA, THAILAND

OF

Just two hours from Kuala Lumpur lies Pattaya, a lovely Thai city brimming with coastal appeal, must-see attractions, vibrant nightlife – and, of course, lip-smacking food!

BY NICK GOH

A

rriving from Bangkok after a two-hour drive from Suvarnabhumi airport, this city will greet you with busy streets filled with eateries, pubs, massage outlets and a large variety of other shops selling all sorts of things.

Welcome to Pattaya, the ‘City of Variety’.

Nestled along a picturesque bay on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 170km southeast of Bangkok, lies a city bustling with life of entertainment and fun. From a humble fishing village back in the 60s, Pattaya has become one of the hottest Southeast Asian holiday spot – filled with everything you can think of for an exciting holiday.

Recreation, entertainment, sports, sightseeing or just lying around the busy sandy beaches, you won’t have time to feel bored. Food outlets are everywhere, some even operating 24 hours a day, so you will definitely not go hungry.

Before arriving in the city, my initial impression of Pattaya was that it’s a city for nightlife seekers – but to my pleasant surprise, I was very wrong!

Sun ‘N Fun With three long busy beaches, there are many activities for sun-bathers and beach lovers. w Pattaya Beach is a 4km moonshaped stretch of coastline with a long jogging pathway filled with people walking, jogging, peddling goods (and food) and offering massages almost any time of the day. w Jomtien Beach is a 6km stretch, a hot spot for many tourists who

72

w

prefer relaxing activities or water sports.

Wong Phrachan Beach is the smallest of the three beaches with clearer water and is less crowded.

Attractions Galore!

There are more than 20 attractions in Pattaya; here are some that you shouldn’t miss: w Pattaya Dolphin World is the place to be if you would like to catch

w

dolphin shows or enjoy an indoor swim with the dolphins. Meet these incredibly friendly and intelligent creatures face-to-face and be amazed with their amusing personalities and ability to perform tricks. There are also horse-riding activities in this park.

Underwater World is a state-of-theart leisure attraction displaying more than 4,500 different species of marine life from all over the world.

Pattaya Beach

ParGolf MAY 2015

072-075•Pattaya.May15.indd 72

4/23/15 2:34 PM

or the ‘Som Tham’ mixed just for you using the freshly harvested mangoes and vegetables. Be sure to go there with an empty stomach!

a riety w

w

You will be mesmerised by the sight of these wonderful creatures swimming around a 100m-long acrylic tunnel aquarium.

The Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm features huge crocodiles along with some rare animals. The exciting crocodile show is definitely a treat for kids and adults.

The Pattaya Park houses a 240m tower that doubles up as a jumping tower. Thrill-seekers can leap off from the tower to the park below via a secure cable, an adrenalinpumping glide you won’t soon forget! On the 55th floor is an observation deck where you can see all of Jomtien Beach and Pattaya

Pattaya Dolphin World

w

w

Bay. There are games, rides and a water park too for visitors and their young ones.

Pattaya Elephant Village completes your Thai odyssey with majestic elephants in their sanctuary; these trick-performing elephants are sure to amuse you. A one-hour ride through the jungle is also included in your visit to the village.

Suphattra Land is one of the few orchards around Pattaya and is located about 30 minutes from the city. Depending on the season, you can have the best tropical food here.

The All-You-Can-Eat tram-ride around the orchard makes this a great value-for-money tour. Enjoy fresh longan straight from the trees

Good Food ‘N Tasty Tidbits I’d say food is my favourite part of my travels because it says everything about a place. ‘Khao Nio Ma Muang’, or Mango Sticky Rice as we know it, is one of the best Asian desserts and there are stalls that serve this 24 hours a day in Pattaya. Even after a big hearty seafood meal in any of the fine restaurants along the North or South Beach Road, this dessert will be a fine curtain-closer to a sumptuous meal.

Perhaps you would like to head over to Jomtien Beach where there are many good beach-front restaurants as well and a night market for some serious bargaining.

The Thai-style Shish Kebabs I sampled were inspiring – these inexpensive treats on a stick were tasty, marinated grilled pork that could be found at almost every street corner.

For those who can’t get enough of tropical fruits, stalls selling fresh, sliced fruits are aplenty in Pattaya, and for the more adventurous noodle lovers, make sure you try a bowl of BaMee Moo or Kai (egg noodles with pork or chicken) soup. Remember to add a dash of fish sauce, a pinch of sugar and some dried chili powder to get the ‘oomph’ out of this amazing bowl of noodles.

Pattaya Elephant Village

Enjoy longan straight from the trees at Suphattra Land

Delicious durians

ParGolf MAY 2015

072-075•Pattaya.May15.indd 73

73

4/23/15 2:34 PM

PATTAYA, THAILAND Khao Nio Ma Muang, or mango sticky rice

BaMee Moo/Kai (pork/ chicken egg noodles)

Like I said, one will never go hungry in this city as great food can be found everywhere. And don’t be fooled by the simple set-up of some of these eateries or stalls – their offerings are simply outstanding!

What was I there for? Oh yes, golf!

There are 25 beautiful courses around Pattaya ranging from simple, friendly layouts for social golfers to challenging, undulating courses for the serious golfer. The service you receive once you step onto any of these courses is just outstanding, which is exactly why many golfers from around the world love to golf in Thailand.

The experience, from the time you arrive at the bag drop area to the registration counter, clean and cozy changing rooms, friendly caddies, course marshals and good dining experience before and after the game, will make you feel like a VIP – well, maybe just for those few hours but it sure feels good!

Must-play courses: w St Andrews 2000 – There are three 18-hole courses within this facility: St Andrews 2000, Rayong Green Valley and Silky Oak Country Club.

The best of the three is definitely St Andrews 2000 where there are two par-6s making this a long 7,700yard par 74 course. A couple of holes have some spectacular views; watch out for the Swilcan bridge replica located in one of the par 6s.

Hope to reach the par-6s on your third shot for a two-putt birdie. w Siam Country Club, The Old Course – An 18-hole championship course

74

w

that has hosted many great events such as the Thailand Open and Honda LPGA Thailand. Designed and built in 1969, the immaculate conditions of this course and its 101 bunkers will surely put your skills to the test. Everything runs like clockwork here, so be punctual especially for your tee-time.

Siam Country Club, The Plantation Course – Located adjacent to the Old Course, this 27-hole layout has 205 bunkers with some of the trickiest, most undulating greens.

The clubhouse is certainly one of the best in the region and serves a good variety of food. The course in itself comprises a few great holes and challenges. Similar to the Old Course, the maintenance of the fairways and greens is immaculate.

w

w

Burapha Golf Club – This is a wellmaintained 36-hole hilly countryside course located 30km north of Pattaya. One of the holes in Course D is located at the highest point on the course where you will be able to see the entire valley including the neighbouring Laem Chabang Golf Course.

Laem Chabang International Country Club – This 20-year-old course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and has three nines. The Valley course offers the most exciting nine holes with tight fairways and many water hazards where well-thoughtout strategy is a must before every shot. Hole 6 of the Lake course is interesting – players have to play down through the hill with a big lake between the fairways and green.

St Andrews 2000

ParGolf MAY 2015

072-075•Pattaya.May15.indd 74

4/23/15 2:34 PM

Other options: w Bangpra Golf Club – 18 holes, one of the oldest in Thailand, quite long with difficult greens. w Crystal Bay Golf Club – 27 holes, Hawaiian-style course located close to the sea. w The Emerald Golf Club – 18 holes, features matured trees along the fairways and undulating greens. w Green Wood Golf Club – 27 holes, a British and American woodlandstyle mix course. w Eastern Star Golf Club – 18 holes, links-style course with wide fairways. w Khao Kheow Country Club – 27 holes, located near the mountainside with a few lakes and windy conditions. w Mountain Shadow Golf Club – 18 holes, relatively short course with tight fairways lined with palm trees. w Pattana Golf Club & Resort – 27 holes, has one 663-yard par 6, windy and quite scenic. w Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club Pattaya – 27 holes, located on high ground with ocean views. w Pattavia Century Golf Club – 18 holes, moderate fairway conditions but with good, fast greens. w Plutaluang Navy Golf Course – 36-hole navy course, a local favourite. w Siam Country Club, Waterside – 18 holes, championship quality with lakes and creeks. w Rayong Green Valley Country Club (St Andrews 2000) – 18 holes, good layout with small tricky greens. w Silky Oak Country Club (St Andrews 2000) – 18 holes (but actually plays like a nine-hole

w

w

w

w

w

w

course). Both nines share the same fairway but with different teeboxes and greens – giving you a sense of déjà vu, like, “Hey, didn’t I play this hole earlier?”

Treasure Hill Golf & Country Club – 18 holes, Japanese-style course with large bunkers, sloping fairways and greens; precision golf is required here.

Asia Pattaya Hotel – 9 holes of par 3s, ideal for beginners and those who wish to practice their iron shots.

Pattaya Country Club – 18 holes, flat with a few lakes and bunkers, easy course for low-handicappers.

Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club – 18 holes, a short course with fairly tight fairways and the occasional breeze.

Wangjuntr Golf Park – Features two 18-hole courses and one 9-hole; one of the holes is about 100m above the fairway, a little wacky but great fun.

Amata Spring Country Club (members-only course) – 18 holes, an exclusive private club featuring true championship conditions with immaculate fairways and greens.

The 17th hole is the world-famous island green where you need a boat to get to it.

All of the courses listed above have their own websites that feature latest rates and tee times, so check them out. With plenty to do and lots of golf courses to try out, two weeks in this lively city may not be enough for a fun-filled, gratifying holiday, so expect to stretch that vacation just a little bit and enjoy an unforgettable Pattaya getaway. PG

Glide down to Pattaya Park from the jumping tower

FAST FACTS Getting There Getting to Pattaya from KLIA is easy with countless carriers as well as low-cost carriers such as AirAsia offering daily flights to the Suvarnabhumi airport. Once there, you can either hop on a bus that runs directly from the airport to Pattaya (and return; www. airportpattayabus.com) or grab a taxi cab (located at Level 1 of the airport terminal).

Alternatively, you may opt for private transport – BangkokLimo.org offers transfers for up to three people for a total cost of THB1,800, and vans for up to eight people for THB2,100 (www. bangkoklimo.org).

AirportTransfersThailand.com offers private transfers for up to four people for a total cost of THB2,700, mini van that fits five to seven people for THB3,000 and minibus for seven to 13 people for THB3,300 (www. airporttransfersthailand.com).

When To Go Best time to visit Pattaya is from February to August for bright sunny skies. In November to early January, the weather is a little cooler but chances of a rainy day is higher.

Where To Stay For a uniquely exotic experience of Thai villas, try the Sugar Hut Resort and Restaurant; it provides a cozy, private quarters in a lush setting of fragrant flower trees (www.sugar-hut. com).

For a 4-star experience with a beach view, try the Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel & Resort; this is the quieter side of the beach with plenty of restaurants and a night market nearby (www. jomtien-palmbeach.com).

For a reasonable 3-star hotel in the quiet side of town, stay at The Seasons Pattaya Hotel; it is just a few minutes’ walk from a 24-hour food court and street shops, and offers clean rooms and a nice breakfast spread (the-seasonspattaya-beach.h-rez.com).

Swilcan Bridge replica at St Andrews 2000

Useful Contacts/Links Tourism Authority of Thailand www.tourismthailand.org

ParGolf MAY 2015

072-075•Pattaya.May15.indd 75

75

4/23/15 2:34 PM

PATTAYA, THAILAND

New Kids ON THE BLOCK

Mike Bridge checks out two new courses that have enhanced the Pattaya golfing experience

WATERSIDE COURSE, SIAM COUNTRY CLUB Fun & Games Siam Country Club Waterside Course is the latest course to join the Siam Country Club stable in Pattaya, and with 63 holes it is now the biggest first-class golf resort in Thailand.

The Waterside Course was designed

by IMG and built by Golf East, who also built Banyan in Hua Hin. Opened last May, it is spread out over 200 acres with the same championship quality and 5-star experience as its other two big brothers next door, the Old Course and the Plantation Course – but perhaps a bit more tourist friendly, with more sloping terrain.

76

Once it has matured, maybe we'll even see Waterside hosting the Honda LPGA Thailand as it has some spectacular-stadium style holes around the lakes and clubhouse.

Course design includes several lakes and creeks in play and at over 7,400 yards from the back tees, it will challenge the best golfers. However, IMG have created a course where all handicaps can obtain a fair score, with several tee options down to just 5,000 yards to choose from.

For the technically-minded, the fairways are grassed with the latest

variety of Paspalum grass, while greens are a variety of Bermuda. Many of the holes are framed by water, while most greens are basically flush with the fairways, making play very friendly.

It's very much a course where you look at it from a distance and think hey, nothing special – however as you go around it grabs your imagination and is very enjoyable too.

Several holes stand out, especially the eighth which is a long par 5 with a few strategically-placed bunkers and a small green overlooked by a lake on the right and large tree.

ParGolf MAY 2015

076-079•Pattaya2.May15.indd 76

4/24/15 9:50 AM

The ninth hole allows long hitters to drive over the lake towards the clubhouse onto an undulating green.

Very much a ‘hit and reward’ hole.

On the back nine the 17th, which is a long 600-yard par 5, again favours long hitters with the option to cut across a dogleg left over water to reach the green in two. Don't worry though, shorter hitters have layup options too but still a challenging shot over a deep ravine to make the green in regulation.

The final hole is a great finishing hole, playing alongside the large lake in front of the clubhouse. The 420-yard par 4 is a monster for any golfer, especially playing into the prevailing winds. Many rounds will be settled here with the rare birdie possible, but many more bogies or worse more likely.

The Waterside clubhouse is very minimalistic in its concept but still manages to offer golfers all the facilities of a 5-star club. The clubhouse features balconies with a 180-degree view of the surrounding valley. From the terrace, golfers can see how the course, lakes, creeks and landscaping blend in with natural land formations.

The proshop is very appealing with all the latest brands, and they have excellent locker rooms and

changing areas for men and women.

The restaurant serves both Thai and international cuisine and you can either eat inside or on the terrace.

With the same attention to detail,

well-trained caddies and excellent staff on and off the course, Waterside is a fabulous addition to the Siam Country Club resort and to the Pattaya golfing experience.

FACT FILE

Designer IMG, Golf East Length 7,400 yards Location Pattaya, Thailand Opened March 2014 Green Fees Weekdays – 3,600 Baht / Weekends – 4,200 Baht Buggy 750 Baht Caddy 400 Baht Website www.siamcountryclub.com

ParGolf MAY 2015

076-079•Pattaya2.May15.indd 77

77

4/24/15 9:50 AM

PATTAYA, THAILAND

JUNGLE COURSE, WANGJUNTR GOLF PARK Rumble In The Jungle Wangjuntr Golf Park is perhaps one of the most unusual golf clubs you are ever likely to visit.

Located just over an hour’s drive from Pattaya, 130km from Bangkok, the club was formed by seven Thai businessmen from a successful construction company who have created a Disney-like adventure and 54 holes of spectacular golf.

The Valley Course is an inland mountain course, opened in 2002, while the unique Highland Course followed in 2006, built on a mountain plateau. They both are 18-hole adventures but with two greens per hole, so when you check in they tell you what you will play that day – either left or right green!

78

However, not to rest on their laurels, these enterprising investors opened their third tract last October, calling it the Jungle Course. It's an 18-hole challenge nestled in a peaceful valley surrounded by jungle and mistcovered mountains. Very Jurassic Park!

Once you have checked in at the proshop, they then drive you up into the mountains by truck to the hilltop clubhouse where you pick up your cart. The drive to the first tee takes you another five minutes as you travel past the back nine of the Highland Course.

When we played the Jungle on a Sunday, we were pleasantly surprised to find only 24 golfers booked to play, so it felt like a millionaire's round of

golf with mates.

Here you will find that several of your tee shots will rely on your caddie's instruction, as you are driving blind onto the fairway. This was particularly noticeable at the first hole, where you drive over the ladies teebox down onto the fairway below, avoiding water on your right and some large bunkers on your left.

The second green was the size of three tennis courts, surrounded by a huge lake with a view across to several holes and the tree lined mountains as the backdrop.

The par 3 third is fun, playing 150 yards down from an elevated tee box onto an extremely undulating and large green.

ParGolf MAY 2015

076-079•Pattaya2.May15.indd 78

4/24/15 9:50 AM

Hole 4 is a tricky 608-yard par 5, shown as the hardest hole on the card.

You drive off over a lake with the aim of landing over the ridge, so you have a clear view of the challenge ahead for your long second shot. A raised green surrounded by huge natural stone boulders and the lake on your left mean you need an accurate shot onto the large green here.

As with the Highland, here on the par 3 fifth hole, you can tee off on top of the drinks kiosk at around 190 yards to a tricky green surrounded by more boulders.

On the day we played the heavens opened, so we took shelter at the large drinks station and watched as the course disappeared in the mist.

There were literally waterfalls coming off the elevated greens but it all stopped after 20 minutes and the greens were playable almost immediately ... astonishing!

The back nine was more elevated and Hole 14 at 633 yards was a longhitter’s challenge, with a dogleg left up to another undulated green.

The 17th showed 252 yards from their gold tees, or if you were crazy enough 290 yards from the back tees, making this the longest par 3 in the country!

The finishing par 5 starts over a valley, then all the way uphill past numerous mounds and pot bunkers to a raised green. A wonderful last-gasp hole which can make or ruin your score.

Overall the course was in great condition and, certainly once you have worked out how to conquer the individual holes, will provide you with a superb challenge in calm and peaceful surroundings.

Their main clubhouse back at the base has adequate changing rooms, very tasty and reasonable Thai cuisine and they even have a 50-room 3-star basic hotel. In the future there are plans to build a second hotel overlooking the Jungle and Highland courses.

FACT FILE Designer Length Location Opened Green Fees Buggy Caddy Website

Expert Golf Group 7,631 yards Rayong, Thailand October 2014 Weekdays & Weekends – 2850 Baht 800 Baht 300 Baht www.wangjuntrgolf.com

MIKE BRIDGE IS THE MANAGING EDITOR OF 'THE PATTAYA GOLFER' AND IS A MEMBER OF IGTWA, THE INTERNATIONAL GOLF WRITERS ASSOCIATION. ParGolf MAY 2015

076-079•Pattaya2.May15.indd 79

79

4/24/15 9:50 AM

THE GOLF SCENE

MGA hosts R&A Rules school for tournament administrators and referees at The Mines

Close to 100 delegates from 17 countries attended an R&A Rules seminar for tournament administrators and referees in Kuala Lumpur on March 26-29, organised by the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) at The Mines Resort & Golf Club.

The R&A Tournament Administrators and Referee School (TARS) and R&A Teach The Teachers Seminar (TTTS) were conducted by experts from the R&A, comprising Rules of Golf committee chairman Chris Hilton, Amateur Status committee chairman Keith Andrews and two assistant directors of rules, Shona McRae and Kevin Barker.

TARS is a three-day Level 3 Rules School aimed primarily at qualified Rules officials who are already administering and refereeing

tournaments or who have a strong desire to do so in the near future. Sixty-three delegates from over 15 countries took part, including Malaysia (21 participants), Bangladesh (3), China (4), Taiwan (2), India (7), Indonesia (6), Japan (2), Kazakhstan (4), Saudi Arabia (1), Oman (1), Philippines (2), Singapore (4), Thailand (2), South Africa (1) and Australia (3).

The TTTS seminar took place on the final day, with 34 delegates from 12 countries participating, namely Malaysia, Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, Korea, Philippines, Thailand, South Africa, China and Taiwan. This seminar, which is for experienced referees who have been actively conducting Rules Schools over the past few years, discusses the progress and objectives of the

Rules schools and how they can be improved.

In a bonus for the participants, the R&A delegation brought along the Claret Jug for display during the seminar.

“This is the first time that Malaysia has played host to TARS and TTTS delegates from countries in the Asia-Pacific region and this is mainly due to MGA’s active involvement in promoting the R&A’s threetier Rules education programme since it was launched in 2012,” said the chairman of MGA’s Rules sub-committee, CC Boo. “In 2013 and 2014, the MGA organised 14 Level 1 Introductory Rules Schools with over 360 attendees and two Level 2 Rules Schools with over 65 participants.”

Golfers looking to play for a good cause can take part in Make-A-Wish Malaysia’s annual charity golf tournament, which will be staged at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club on May 21.

The fifth edition of the annual event will be played in the afternoon in Texas Scramble format. Slots are available at RM6,000 per flight, including lunch and prize presentation dinner. All proceeds go to Make-A-Wish Malaysia, a charitable organisation that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

For more information, call 03-20113300 or log on to www.makeawish.org.my.

80

East Course, Kuala Lumpur GCC

©Kuala Lumpur GCC

Golf for a good cause in Make-A-Wish charity event

ParGolf MAY 2015

080•Golf Scene.May15.indd 80

4/24/15 9:51 AM

e b i r c s sub w! no free 1 sleeve of taylormade burner balls!

ONLY

RM106!

* SUBSCRIPTION FORM PLEASE TICK WHERE APPLICABLE Offer** includes 1-year subscription to ParGolf and 1 sleeve TaylorMade Burner golf balls FREE

 RM100.00 (WEST M'SIA)  RM110.00 (EAST M'SIA)  NEW SUBSCRIBER  I AM ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER. PLEASE EXTEND MY SUBSCRIPTION WITH THIS OFFER

YOUR DETAILS NAME _________________________________________________________________

PAYMENT ENCLOSED

 CHEQUE  MONEY ORDER

NO. __________________________________________________________ (PAYABLE TO WRITE TRACK PUBLISHING & COMMUNICATIONS SDN BHD)

CREDIT CARD

 VISA  MASTERCARD

CARD NUMBER

 EXPIRY DATE ________ / ________

ADDRESS ______________________________________________________________

ISSUING BANK ________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

NAME ON THE CARD __________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________ _________________________________ BIRTHDATE ____________________________ TEL ________________________________ FAX ________________________________ HP ____________________________ EMAIL __________________________________ DELIVERY ADDRESS (IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE) NAME _________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS ______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________

SIGNATURE ______________________________________ DATE _________________ PLEASE SEND THIS PORTION BY FAX OR MAIL TO:

WRITE TRACK PUBLISHING & COMMUNICATIONS SDN BHD (352719-P) GST Registration No : 002147360768

SUBSCRIPTIONS DEPARTMENT, No. KA3-1-6, Kuchai Avenue, No. 39, Jalan Kuchai Maju 13, Kuchai Entrepreneurs Park, Off Jalan Kuchai Lama, 58200 Kuala Lumpur. Tel 603-7987 1889 Fax 603-7983 9882 Email info@pargolfmagazine.com

_______________________________________________________________________ _________________________________ BIRTHDATE ____________________________ TEL ________________________________ FAX ________________________________ HP ____________________________ EMAIL __________________________________

Artcard•Subscription.May15.indd 81

www.pargolfmagazine.com Terms and conditions apply. * Additional postage cost is applicable for delivery outside of Peninsular Malaysia. Price includes GST. ** While stocks last. Golf ball model may change according to availability.

0515

4/24/15 10:01 AM

CALENDAR OF EVENTS MAY - JUNE 2015 MALAYSIAN AMATEUR EVENTS May 6 – 10

North Malaysian Championship (Men)

Royal Perak GC

May 8 – 10

Sabah Amateur Open (Men & Ladies)

Sandakan GCC

May 11 – 14

Hisamuddin Alam Shah Trophy Open (Men)

Royal Selangor GC

May 14 – 17

Sabah Amateur Open (Men & Ladies)

Sandakan GCC

May 21 – 24

113th Malaysian Amateur Open (Men)

Sarawak GC

May 25 – 28

28th MPI Saujana Amateur Championship (Men)

Saujana GCC, Selangor

May 26 – 28

32nd Malaysian Ladies Amateur Open

The Mines Resort & Golf Club, Selangor

June 1 – 4

KL Amateur Open (Men & Ladies)

Kelab Golf Perkhidmatan Awam

June 5 – 7

24th Labuan Amateur Open (Men & Ladies)

Labuan GC

June 8 -11

World Amateur Inter-Team Golf Championship

Gunung Raya GR/The Els Club Teluk Datai, Langkawi

June 12 – 15

Kelantan Amateur Open (Men & Ladies)

Kelantan GCC

PROFESSIONAL GOLF OF MALAYSIA (PGM) TOUR May 2 – 4

PGM Development Circuit – Q-School

Sabah GCC

RM15,000

May 6 – 9

PGM Sabah Championship (ADT)

Sabah GCC

RM200,000

May 13 – 16

PGM MNRB Sarawak Championship (ADT)

Sarawak GC

RM200,000

May 18 – 20

PGM Development Circuit – Q-School

Sarawak GC

RM15,000

May 24 – 26

PGM Development Circuit – Q-School

Port Dickson GCC, Negeri Sembilan

RM15,000

May 27 – 30

PGM Port Dickson Championship (ADT)

Port Dickson GCC, Negeri Sembilan

RM200,000

June 1 – 4

PGM Matchplay Championship

Impian GCC, Selangor

RM180,000

June 10 – 13

PGM Vascory Templer Park Championship

Templer Park CC, Selangor

RM250,000

June 16 – 18

PGM Development Circuit – Q-School

Impian GCC, Selangor

RM25,000

ASIAN TOUR May 7 – 10

AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open

Heritage GC

€1,000,000

June 18 – 21

Queen’s Cup

Santiburi Samui CC, Koh Samui

US$300,000

ONEASIA TOUR May 14 – 17

GS Caltex Maekyung Open Golf Championship

Namseoul CC, South Korea

KRW1,000,000,000

May 21 – 24

SK Telecom Open

Sky 72 Ocean Course, South Korea

TBA

June 11 -1 4

Thailand Open

TBA

US$1,000,000

ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR May 6 – 9

PGM Sabah Championship (ADT)

Sabah GCC, Malaysia

RM200,000

May 13 – 16

PGM MNRB Sarawak Championship (ADT)

Kelab Golf Sarawak, Malaysia

RM200,000

May 27 – 30

PGM Port Dickson Championship (ADT)

Port Dickson GCC, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

RM200,000

June 10 – 13

PGM Vascory Templer Park Championship

Templer Park CC, Selangor

RM250,000

June 25 – 28

Jakarta Classic

TBA

US$60,000

May 7 – 10

The Players Championship

TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA

US$10,000,000

May 14 – 17

Wells Fargo Championship

Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

US$7,100,000

May 21 – 24

Crowne Plaza Invitational

Colonial CC, Fort Worth, Texas, USA

US$6,500,000

May 28 – 31

AT&T Byron Nelson Championship

TPC Four Seasons Resort, Irving, Texas, USA

US$7,100,000

PGA TOUR

Note: Calendar omits unannounced schedules of tours and associations at press time

Artcard•Calendar.May15.indd 80

4/23/15 2:22 PM

PGA TOUR June 4 – 7

The Memorial Tournament

Muirfield Village GC, Dublin, Ohio, USA

US$6,200,000

June 11 – 14

FedEx St Jude Classic

TPC Southwind, Memphis, Tennessee, USA

US$6,000,000

June 18 – 21

US Open

Chambers Bay GC, Washington, USA

US$9,000,000

June 25 – 28

Travelers Championship

TPC River Highlands, Connecticut, USA

US$6,400,000

June 29 – 30

CVS Health Charity Classic

Rhode Island GC, Rhode Island, USA

US$1,300,000

LPGA TOUR May 14 – 17

Kingsmill Championship

River Course at Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg, Virginia, USA

US$1,300,000

May 29 – 31

ShopRite LPGA Classic

Stockton Seaview Hotel & GC, Galloway, New Jersey, USA

US$1,500,000

June 4 – 7

Manulife LPGA Classic

Whistle Bear GC, Ontario, Canada

US$1,500,000

June 11 – 14

KPMG Women’s PGA Championship

Westchester CC, New York, USA

US$3,500,000

June 26 – 28

Walmart NW Arkansas

Pinnacle CC, Rogers, Arkansas, USA

US$2,000,000

EUROPEAN TOUR May 7 – 10

AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open

Heritage GC, Domaine de Bel Ombre, Mauritius

€1,000,000

May 14 – 17

Open de Espana

Real Club de Golf El Prat, Barcelona, Spain

€1,500,000

May 21 – 24

BMW PGA Championship

Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, Surrey, England

€5,000,000

May 28 – 31

Dubai Duty Free Irish Open

Royal County Down GC, Newcastle, Northern Ireland

€2,000,000

June 4 – 7

Nordea Masters

PGA Sweden National, Malmö, Sweden

€1,500,000

June 11 – 14

Lyoness Open

Diamond CC, Atzenbrugg, Austria

€1,500,000

June 18 – 21

US Open

Chambers Bay GC, Washington, USA

US$9,000,000

June 25 – 28

BMW International Open

Golfclub München Eichenried, Munich, Germany

€2,000,000

LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR May 7 – 10

Buick Championship

Shanghai Qizhong Garden Golf, China

€450,000

May 17 – 20

Turkish Airlines Ladies Open

Carya GC, Belek, Turkey

€500,000

June 91 – 21

Deloitte Ladies Open

The International GC, Amsterdam, Holland

€250,000

ParGolf MAY 2015

Artcard•Calendar.May15.indd 81

81

4/23/15 2:22 PM

AROUND ASIA

Q&A with Arie Irawan Malaysia’s Arie Irawan enjoyed a flying start to the season when he claimed a breakthrough win on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) at the January-played PGM Sime Darby Harvard Championship in Kedah. In this Q&A courtesy of the Asian Tour, the 24-yearold talks about playing on the ADT, his goals in golf and how he stays motivated.

Who or what sparked your interest in golf?

My dad supported me in the game but I enjoyed the fact that golf teaches you to become better. You always strive to become better in golf. It is not easy but that’s what keeps me interested in the game.

What are your ultimate goals in golf?

My ultimate goal is to play on the PGA Tour and in the Majors. I really want to work hard on achieving my goals.

Do you play other sports apart from golf?

I used to play football and I was a goalkeeper! I try to focus more on golf now as I don’t want to risk getting injured.

Who is your inspiration? Is there anyone who has helped get you to where you are now?

My dad, definitely. Even though we’ve gone through some battles and tough times, I know he means well and he always pushes me to become better. He is a great mentor to me. He gets me back to where I need to be. I am lucky to have Mardan Mamat and Zaw Moe helping me in my game as well but my dad was the one who helped and inspired me through my junior days.

I am lucky to have Mardan Mamat and Zaw Moe helping me in my game as well but my dad was the one who helped and inspired me through my junior days.

82

©Asian Tour

When and how did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf at the age of eight. My dad wanted me to learn about golf because I might take over his business one day. Golf is a good way to get in touch and discuss business deals with clients. Over the years, I began to love the game and that’s why it is now my profession.

How do you usually spend your time whenever you are not playing golf?

I can’t get away from golf that much but I have to find a way to do so. I usually spend my time reading books and going to the gym.

What is your practice routine like?

I go to the gym about four times a week. I do a lot of stretching and I try to include my cardio into the routine. If I’m at the driving range, I would be practising for about four to five hours before working on my short game.

If you were not a professional golfer, what do you think you'd be doing for a living?

I would probably be working in the oil and gas industry. My dad is an engineer and I’ve always wanted to follow in his footsteps.

How do you stay motivated in the game?

The way to stay motivated is to set goals.

My ultimate goal is to play on the PGA Tour but I know I have to set small goals first in order to reach that big goal. Whether it’s about setting goals for the week or just for the day, it’s just as important to have goals and to know what you want to do.

Do you enjoy playing on the Asian Development Tour? How do you think it helps in your career development?

The ADT has been a big help to me. I

started out in 2013 and I didn’t have any thoughts about making it onto the Asian Tour by playing on the ADT. In Asia, we don’t play in the same conditions all the time. The playing standard on the ADT has gotten a lot stronger over the years. It is a big stepping stone for you to get onto the Asian Tour. You have to be mentally tough and you have to bring out your A-game every day and every week.

What is a must for you to carry (apart from your golf clubs and clothes) when you travel for tournaments?

I have an audio book which I listen to and I usually bring along some books to read as well. Other important things I bring along include my foam roller and my bands. It’s important to stay loose. I will bring along my break master and my AimPoint leveler when I travel as well.

FACT FILE Name Birthdate Residence Family Turned Pro Twitter Handle Pro Wins

Arie Irawan Ahmad Fauzi August 21, 1990 Kuala Lumpur Single 2013 @ArieIrawan54 2015 PGM Sime Darby Harvard Championship, 2014 PGM Maybank Players’ Championship, Malaysia

ParGolf MAY 2015

082-084•AroundAsia.May15.indd 82

4/24/15 11:05 AM

The inaugural staging of the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open on May 7-10 will be a historic occasion as stars from three continents gather at the Heritage Golf Club on the famous holiday isle.

As the first ever tri-sanctioned tournament endorsed by the Asian Tour, Sunshine (Southern African) Tour and European Tour, the €1 million (approximately US$1.1 million) showpiece will set a new milestone in the evolving landscape of the professional game.

Mike Kerr, CEO of the Asian Tour, lauded the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open for bringing together three full members of the International Federation of PGA Tours.

“The Asian Tour is delighted to break new ground with the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, which will be a milestone in the history of the Asian Tour as it will be the first time the Asian Tour, European Tour and Sunshine Tour are joining forces to sanction what is poised to be a truly exciting and historic golf tournament,” said Kerr.

“It will be tremendous for Mauritius to play host to the finest golf stars from the three continents and through the Asian Tour to further promote the island and all of the partners to golf fans in Asia.”

“The Asian Tour is delighted to break new ground with the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, which will be a milestone in the history of the Asian Tour as it will be the first time the Asian Tour, European Tour and Sunshine Tour are joining forces to sanction what is poised to be a truly exciting and historic golf tournament.”

The 138-man field is made up of at least 40 professionals from each of the participating tours plus qualifiers and local invitees. The event will count towards the individual tours’ Orders of Merit and Official World Golf Ranking points, Race to Dubai and Chase to the Investec Cup. With an eclectic mix of international golf stars poised to tee up at the Heritage Golf Club, the tournament will present a truly different kind of offering, which was already portrayed during the official launch of the tournament last August. Then, tour officials and the title sponsors all rolled up their pants to pose for pictures by the C Beach Club at Heritage Resorts on Domaine de Bel Ombre, with the waves gently crashing in the background. Players and family members can expect to sample the finest hospitality that Mauritius has to offer come tournament week.

The AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open will also offer what is possibly the richest reward for an eagle during the final round. Villas Valriche, one of the tournament’s sponsors, will award the first player who shoots an eagle at the par-four 17th hole on the final day of the tournament with a US$1 million villa.

Christophe Curé, president of the Mauritius Golf Federation, labelled the first

staging of the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open “one-of-a-kind”.

“It is with great honour that the Mauritius Golf Federation is hosting the three tours, and playing a key role in organising this one-of-a-kind tournament.

Together with the sponsors of this exciting new tournament, the Open will play a pivotal role in helping us to grow the game of golf on the island, and draw the world’s attention to our outstanding courses. This tournament promises to be a world-class golfing event,” noted Cure.

For the title sponsors, the tournament is a perfect fit to its commercial objectives.

James Benoit, CEO of AfrAsia Bank, said: “We are honoured to be the official sponsor of this first-of-its-kind tri-sanctioned tournament in Mauritius and promoting golf as a key passion point. As a private and corporate bank, our aim is to be in line with supporting a sports partnership strategy that is aligned with business diversity and international presence, and the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open provides us with the unique opportunity to build on our sporting heritage while providing priceless experiences to our clients, and at the same time mapping Mauritius as a lifestyle, financial and logistics hub.”

©Asian Tour

MIKE KERR, CEO, ASIAN TOUR

©Asian Tour

AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open set for historic debut

ParGolf MAY 2015

082-084•AroundAsia.May15.indd 83

83

4/24/15 11:05 AM

AROUND ASIA

Another teen Thai-tan

©Asian Tour

TOURNAMENT RESULTS PGM JOHOR CHAMPIONSHIP (ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR / PGM TOUR) April 8-11 / Johor Golf & Country Club, Malaysia / RM200,000 (approx. US$55,400) 261 – Nicholas Fung (MAS) 66-67-64-64; 272 – R. Nachimuthu (MAS) 64-68-69-71, Lam Chih Bing (SIN) 67-65-69-71; 276 – Sean Riordan (NZL) 70-66-71-69; 277 – Lindsay Renolds (CAN) 71-69-68-69, Masaru Takahashi (JPN) 70-68-64-75 PGM UMW IMPIAN CHAMPIONSHIP (ASEAN PGA TOUR / PGM TOUR) April 1-4 / Impian Golf & Country Club, Malaysia / RM180,000 (approx. US$49,100) 271 – Kemarol Baharin (MAS) 67-69-67-68; 274 – Settee Prakongvech (THA) 72-65-69-68, Sutijet Kooratanapisan (THA) 69-67-68-70; 275 – Natthapong Niyomchon (THA) 73-64-68-70; 276 – R Nachimuthu (MAS) 72-66-66-72, Donlaphatchai Niyomchon (THA) 69-65-69-73

©Asian Tour

Thailand’s conveyer belt of talent continues to roll out new winners.

Teenager Phachara Khongwatmai secured a convincing four-shot win at the PGM CCM Rahman Putra Championship in March to become the youngest champion on the Asian Development Tour (ADT).

The immensely talented Thai, who turns 16 on May 3, outplayed Malaysian veteran Danny Chia on the final day to take the title with a 20-under-par 268 total at Kelab Rahman Putra Malaysia.

Starting the final day tied with Chia, Phachara showed little signs of pressure as he fired two eagles for a closing six-under-par 66 and a four-shot win over Chia, who closed with 70 and settled for joint second with American Shane Smith at the RM200,000 (approximately US$55,400) ADT event.

Phachara got off to a flying start when he eagled the third hole from 10 feet before making the turn in 34. He pulled clear from the chasing pack with a huge 25-footer eagle on Hole 10 before ending his round on a flourish with birdies on holes 15 and 18.

“I’m very happy with this win. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to win a tournament because my game was very good. I was a bit nervous but it helps when you have two eagles in your round! My short game really helped me this week,” said Phachara, who made headlines when he won the 2013 Hua Hin Open on home soil at the age of 14 before turning professional in August last year.

The Thai prodigy also earned an Asian Tour card earlier this year after winning his first professional title in Thailand.

The top-five finishers on the ADT’s Order of Merit at the end of the season will earn Asian Tour cards for 2016.

Hsieh Chi-hsien

CHARMING YEANGDER ADT (ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR) March 26-29 / National Garden Golf and Country Club, Taiwan / US$150,000 280 – Hsieh Chi-hsien (TWN) 70-70-70-70, Jake Stirling (AUS) 73-67-70-70, Greg Moss (USA) 62-71-75-72, Lin Chien-bing (TWN) 70-68-69-73*; 281 – Lee Chieh-po (TWN) 68-70-73-70, Gavin Flint (AUS) 69-69-73-70, Lin Wen-tang (TWN) 72-71-67-71 *Hsieh won on fourth playoff hole PGM CCM RAHMAN PUTRA CHAMPIONSHIP (ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR / PGM TOUR) March 18-21 / Kelab Rahman Putra Malaysia / RM200,000 (approx. US$55,400) 268 – Phachara Khongwatmai (THA) 71-66-65-66; 272 – Shane Smith (USA) 68-69-71-64, Danny Chia (MAS) 68-68- 66-70; 273 – Sutijet Kooratanapisan (THA) 68-69-67-69; 274 – Quincy Quek (SIN) 67-67-71-69 PGM TERENGGANU CHAMPIONSHIP (ASIAN DEVELOPMENT TOUR / PGM TOUR) March 11-14 / Resorts World Kijal, Malaysia / RM200,000 (approx. US$55,400) 273 – Panuwat Muenlek (THA) 70-68-67-68; 276 – Itthipat Buranatanyarat (THA) 68-72-68-68, Atthaphon Sriboonkaew (THA) 68-71-66-71; 277 – Lam Chih Bing (SIN) 72-69-69-67, Janne Kaske (FIN) 72-67-69-69

84

ParGolf MAY 2015

082-084•AroundAsia.May15.indd 84

4/24/15 11:05 AM

asian angles chuah choo chiang

A thought-provoking column on Asian golf by Chuah Choo Chiang, recognised worldwide as one of Asia's top golf writers. Chuah is the communications director of the Asian Tour, based in Kuala Lumpur.

Diamond In The Rough

Phachara Khongwatmai is the latest gem to emerge from the Land of Smiles

I

f you’re a golf fan, remember this name – Phachara Khongwatmai.

The young Thai, who turns 16 in May, has already won two pro tournaments – one on home soil in 2013 when he was still an amateur and more recently on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) in March.

In winning the PGM CCM Rahman Putra Championship on the ADT, which is the feeder circuit to the Asian Tour, the slender Phachara became the tour’s youngest ever winner at the age of 15 years and 320 days following a convincing four-stroke triumph.

Amazingly, Thailand seems to have a knack for producing young gems – pardon the pun – as Phachara’s name translates loosely to ‘diamond’.

Back in 2005, a young Chinnarat Phadungsil, then aged 17 years and five days old, became the Asian Tour’s youngest ever champion when he won the Double A International Open on home soil, defeating India’s Shiv Kapur in a playoff. Chinnarat is currently a three-time Asian Tour champion.

Whether Phachara can go on to beat Chinnarat’s record as the youngest Asian Tour winner in the next year is left to be seen but nobody would be betting against it for sure!

He already has a 2015 Asian Tour card in his back pocket after finishing top-40 in the gruelling Qualifying School in Thailand and it’ll be interesting to see how he stacks up against the big boys when the season goes into full swing mode.

With his parents’ blessings, Phachara dropped out of regular school to turn professional last August.

He has since honed his skills on the All Thailand Golf Tour which allowed him to spend time around Thailand’s top stars such as Thaworn Wiratchant, Prom Meesawat and Prayad Marksaeng, picking up valuable pointers along the way.

“The All Thailand Tour was the place for me to practice when I was an amateur. I played with good professionals and that experience helps me when I play in international tournaments,” he said.

He knows though that the road to glory will be bumpy and rough, requiring plenty of long hours at the practice range and gym – but this is something he has already ingrained into his mind, making it a habit during his formative years as a professional golfer.

“I like to spend my time at the driving range, working with my coach and I also go to the gym a lot to work out and get stronger,” he said.

Since its launch in 2010, the ADT has certainly become a wonderful breeding ground for young stars to emerge.

Last year, Thailand’s Pavit Tangkamolprasert and Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang won three tournaments each to signal their coming of age. Chan has also played

his way into the Olympic reckoning by breaking into the top-60 bracket of the Olympic rankings which will be used to determine the field for Rio de Janeiro next year when golf makes a welcome return.

Malaysia’s Arie Irawan and Wilson Choo, both emerging golfers still in their 20s, also won maiden ADT titles earlier in the season which augurs well for the development of professional golf in the region.

But let us all remember the name Phachara Khongwatmai ... he truly is a diamond in the rough. PG

EAGLE ECSTASY Phachara’s record-setting victory in the PGM CCM Rahman Putra Championship came in spectacular fashion as the youngster raked up two eagles in a final round 66. Tied for the lead with Malaysian veteran Danny Chia, Phachara eagled the third hole from 10 feet and the 10th from 25 feet en route to closing 66 and a fourshot win.

ParGolf MAY 2015

085•AsianAngles.May15.indd 85

85

4/24/15 9:53 AM

MALAYSIAN PROFESSIONAL NEWS

Nicholas Fung set a new record total for the PGM Tour when he blazed his way to victory in the PGM Johor Championship, carding rounds of 66, 67 and successive 64s for a stunning 27-under-par 261 total at Johor Golf & Country Club.

Taking a four-shot lead into the final round of the RM200,000 tournament, co-sanctioned by the PGM Tour and Asian Development Tour (ADT), Fung did not take his foot off the pedal and ran away with the title by a whopping 11 shots from compatriot R. Nachimuthu and Singapore’s Lam Chih Bing.

Fung’s winning total would have been the record lowest 72-hole score on the ADT as well if not for the preferred lies in play.

The final round was suspended for three hours from 12.46pm due to lightning threats but the delay did not dampen Fung’s fiery charge to the title.

“I felt unstoppable out there ... the birdies just kept coming.

I didn’t expect this. I thought I would be under pressure playing with Lam and Nachimuthu but I reminded myself to just play my own game and not think too much. I enjoyed myself out there and I’m happy with the results,” said the 24-year-old Malaysian.

“The world ranking points I received will also be a great boost as it puts me in a better position to try and qualify for the Olympics next year,” added Fung, who took home a cheque for US$9,560 and received six Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points from the win.

“I felt unstoppable out there.

The birdies just kept coming.”

Kemarol comes good It was an emotional win for Kemarol Baharin when he claimed his first ASEAN PGA Tour title and third PGM Tour title in the UMW Impian Championship, which was co-sanctioned by the two tours.

The 29-year-old from Kuala Lumpur carded rounds of 67, 69, 67 and 68 to finish on 17-under-par 271, three shots clear of the Thai duo of Settee Prakongvech and Sutijet Kooratanapisan.

Kemarol attributed the win to a week-long break. “I think the week’s break from golf really did me good. I played consistently well and I also got a few lucky breaks, which really helped me.

“Overall, my game was good as I did not feel much pressure and I think that was because of the break from the game. I hit the ball solid and when I did get into some trouble I also got a few lucky escapes,” said Kemarol, who pocketed a cheque for RM30,600 from the RM180,000 total prize fund.

The round of the tournament came from another Malaysian, Shaaban Hussin, who equalled the course record with a superb final round of 10-under-par 62.

©PGM Tour

NICHOLAS FUNG ON HIS RECORD 27-UNDER-PAR TOTAL

©PGM Tour

Fung on fire

UMW Holdings president & group CEO Datuk Syed Hisham Syed Wazir (left) presenting a cheque for RM333,333,333 to PGM Tour general manager Mior Abdul Rahman, witnessed by PGM Tour chairman Tun Ahmad Sarji.

©PGM Tour

This was the second instalment of a RM1 million commitment made

by UMW towards the PGM Tour over a three-year period, from 2014 to 2016.

86

The PGM Tour’s 2015 calendar currently features 31 tournaments, 12 of which offer world ranking points through co-sanctioning with the Asian Development Tour.

ParGolf MAY 2015

086•MalaysiaProNews.May15.indd 86

4/23/15 2:28 PM

two sen worth

A column by golf industry personalities on the state of the game in this region. In this issue, golf professional Chong Chee Ming shares his views on the need to make golf more accessible to juniors.

Just Let Us Play!

Golf clubs need to open their courses to juniors if the game is to grow

I

remember when I was a junior at Royal Selangor Golf Club (RSGC), I approached an elderly gentleman and his mate to ask them if I could join them for a round – and got a ‘why don’t you play there’ look pointing at the training course further along.

There I stood stunned as only a week earlier I had won the club’s junior championship. I was expecting recognition and respect but all I got was a smirk and a ‘why are you bothering us’ look. I thought of saying, “Don’t you know that I’m your club’s junior champion?”, but I was brought up to respect the elders, so I just plodded along. It was as though I was going to infect them with the Black Plague or some other incurable disease – it was a ridiculous feeling!

At age 15, holding a seven handicap and having just won my first ever tournament, I thought I was invincible – until I came across these two gentlemen.

They made me feel like a five-inch

Chinese porcelain doll with a tan.

Junior golf has come a long way today.

But while there are a gazillion more juniors playing these days, I can still sense the attitude of the two RSGC gentlemen who snubbed me at golf clubs. There are still playing restrictions and age discrimination. Thankfully the resilience of parents today knows no bounds and they would go to the ends of the earth to churn out a Rory McIlroy or a Lydia Ko out of their kids. Kudos!

I wish that the offending clubs (you know who you are) would let their defences down and re-look at their handbooks – which most likely were written by pre-independence generals who have probably left Malaya to live on a farm somewhere in the UK. It is time to open up your club events to juniors and see them grow with the game. So before you make derogatory comments about Malaysian golf, embark on some good self-search session on where we are in terms of promoting this great game to the young.

Understand that we the older generation have had our time and it’s time to respect the fact that the young will soon flourish and will come forth with the power of knowledge and growth.

Do your work and run your junior programmes. If each club can produce one – yes, just one – good product, you would have contributed to golf big time! But do it with a big heart, an open heart. Be a philanthropist, a giver, a contributor and be selfless. Create opportunities for juniors and watch them grow into world beaters!

After experiencing such trauma as a teenage golfer, I write this now in the hope that the authorities out there will fight for the future of Malaysian golf. To all you aunties and uncles, bring your walking sticks out to the next junior tournament and support the future of Malaysian golf. Who knows, maybe you’ll pick up something to better your own game!

Twenty-five years on and sadly still fighting for junior rights... PG

ABOUT THE AUTHOR A graduate of the Professional Golfers Career College in the United States, Chong Chee Ming – CM for short – is one of Malaysia’s most-respected golf professionals and has been a member of the PGA of Malaysia since 1999. While operating the popular TaylorMade-adidas Golf Concept Store in Section 14, Petaling Jaya, CM also coaches under the TrueGolf Academy banner and plays on tour. He was the captain of the Malaysian team that beat Singapore in the 2014 Causeway Trophy.

ParGolf MAY 2015

087•Two Cents Worth.May15.indd 87

87

4/23/15 2:35 PM

YOUNG GUNS

©Xaume Olleros/Power Sport Images

Kamasu continues Japan’s dominance in Faldo Series Asia

“The players are getting better every year and I am excited about the future as we continue our effort to grow the game of golf globally through the Faldo Series.”

Yuki Kamasu receives the Faldo Series Asia trophy from Mission Hills vice chairman Tenniel Chu and Sir Nick Faldo

Yuki Kamasu continued Japan’s recent domination of the Faldo Series Asia with a gutsy victory in the grand final of the 2014/15 series, played on March 18-20 at Mission Hills Shenzhen in China.

The 21-year-old talent edged Czech Republic’s Simon Zach in a dramatic suddendeath playoff at Mission Hills’ Faldo Course after the two golfers had finished tied on nineunder-par 207 over three rounds. One shot ahead overnight, Kamasu closed with a threeunder 69 while Zach forced extra holes with a closing 68.

It was the Japanese who prevailed in extra time despite pushing his drive into the water at the par five 18th. While he recovered for a gutsy bogey-six, Zach sent his third shot into the water in front of the green and did the same thing after taking a drop.

With his triumph in the ninth edition of the series, Kamasu followed in the footsteps of Masamichi Ito and Mikumu Horikawa to become the tournament’s third Japanese champion in the past four years.

“This victory is important for me. It’s my first international win and is a big boost for my confidence and self-belief,” said Kamasu.

“I would like to thank Sir Nick for providing such an incredible opportunity and for hosting us all, and for sharing his knowledge and wisdom at the clinics he conducted.”

88

SIR NICK FALDO

Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo said: “Yuki’s victory caps a fantastic week which has seen us bring together more than 80 young golfers from 18 countries around the world.

“The players are getting better every year and I am excited about the future as we continue our effort to grow the game of golf globally through the Faldo Series.”

American Zachary Bauchou, winner of the Faldo Series Grand Final at The Greenbrier in West Virginia, USA last October, eagled the final hole to claim third place, just one shot shy of the playoff.

Meanwhile, Zach, who was defeated by Bauchou in a play-off at The Greenbrier, had the consolation of winning the Boys’

Cao Sen emerged as China’s best player

Under-18 division.

In the Girls’ Under-21 category, victory went to Princess Mary Superal of the Philippines with a score of three-under 213.

Minami Hiruta, the reigning Japan Women’s Amateur champion, was runner-up on 216.

The Girls’ Under-16 winner was Japan’s Yumi Kudo, on countback from China’s Liu Yan and New Zealander Brooke Hamilton after the trio tied at five-over 221.

China’s Cao Sen triumphed in the Boys’ Under-16 segment thanks to a sparkling closing 68, edging Chinese Taipei’s Tsai Kai-jen on countback after both finished on 213. Cao also received the Mission Hills Trophy, presented to the leading Chinese player.

Kamasu will be granted an exemption into an Asian Tour event, while Superal as the girls’ winner will be given a start in a Ladies European Tour event. Both will also get spots in the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final.

Supported by The R&A and Mission Hills and endorsed by the Asian Tour and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation, the 2014-15 Faldo Series Asia campaign has stretched over 11 months and made up of 18 championships.

The Faldo Series was established in 1996, expanding to Asia in 2006. Today, 40 Faldo Series tournaments take place in more than 30 countries worldwide. Past winners include Yani Tseng and Rory McIlroy.

ParGolf MAY 2015

088-089•Young Guns.May15.indd 88

4/24/15 9:54 AM

Australia joins the roster for Faldo Series Asia The 10th edition of the Faldo Series Asia will span 11 months with a minimum of 21 events in 17 countries, including Australia for the first time.

Winners of age-group categories at each of the national championships will earn themselves places in the 10th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, to be hosted by Sir Nick Faldo at Mission Hills China in March 2016.

“Australia is one of the world’s great golfing countries and I’m thrilled that the Faldo Series will be staging an event there,” said Faldo.

“Last year, New Zealand and Bangladesh joined the Faldo Series. The addition of Australia further underlines my commitment to developing junior golf around the world,” he added.

2015/16 Faldo Series Asia Schedule April 15-17 April 20-21 June 2-4

Faldo Series Chinese Taipei Championship – Sunrise Golf and Country Club Faldo Series Thailand Championship – Phoenix Golf and Country Club, Chonburi Faldo Series Philippines Championship – Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club, Cavite Faldo Series Shanghai Championship – Suzhou International Golf Club, Shanghai June 11-13 Faldo Series Cambodia Championship – Angkor Golf Resort, Siem Reap July 8-10 Faldo Series China Championship – Mission Hills, Shenzhen July 15-16 Faldo Series Vietnam Championship – Laguna Lang Co, Danang July 29-31 Faldo Series Hong Kong Championship – Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course Sep 4-6 Faldo Series Pakistan Championship – Defence Raya Golf and Country Club, Lahore Sep 9-11 Faldo Series Singapore Championship – Raffles Country Club Sep 21-23 Faldo Series Nepal Championship – Gokarna Forest Resort, Kathmandu Sep 29-Oct 1 Faldo Series Malaysia Championship – Harvard Golf and Country Club, Kedah Oct 27-29 Faldo Series Bangladesh Championship – Kurmitola Golf Club, Dhaka Nov 5-7 Faldo Series Japan Championship – Shishido Hills Golf Club, Ibaraki Nov 24-27 Faldo Series India Championship (Boys) – Tollygunge Golf Club, Kolkata Dec 12-15 Faldo Series India Championship (Girls) – Royal Calcutta Golf Club, Kolkata Dec 14-15 Faldo Series Australia Championship – Castle Hill Country Club, Sydney TBC, 2016 Faldo Series New Zealand Championship – Clearwater Golf Club, Christchurch TBC, 2016 Faldo Series Indonesia Championship – Damai Indah BSD, Jakarta TBC, 2016 Faldo Series Kunming Championship – Lakeview Golf Club, Kunming TBC, 2016 10th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final – Mission Hills Shenzhen, China

Adam’s early birthday joy at RSGC Adam Madzri underlined his growing reputation as one of Malaysia’s most promising juniors with an emphatic victory in the Boys' U-15 category of the RSGC AmBank Junior Amateur Open.

Adam carded rounds of 72, 72 and 73 to finish on 217 in the event, played at Royal Selangor Golf Club on April 7-9. He took the title by a massive 11-stroke margin over runner-up Lee Chong Li from Johor Golf & Country Club.

“I am delighted with this win, my parents are also proud of me. This is also a nice early birthday present as I will be 14 years old on April 20,” said Adam, who idolises Tiger Woods.

In the Boys’ U-18 category, Indonesia’s Kevin Akbar emerged triumphant with a total of 217 (72-73-72), eight shots clear of Malaysia’s Khavish Varman.

Both the girls’ titles went to the strong Philippines contingent, with defending champion Sofia Chabon successfully retaining her Under-15 title and Abegail Arevalo claiming top spot in the Under-18 category.

Chabon carded rounds of 71, 74 and 69 for a 214 total and a seven-shot win over local hope Geraldine Wong, while Arevalo signed in rounds of 71, 73 and 70 for the same total and a two-shot victory over compatriot and 2014 winner Princess Superal.

ParGolf MAY 2015

088-089•Young Guns.May15.indd 89

89

4/24/15 9:54 AM

Watch ‘em

COME ALIVE

with

BRING THIS PIC TO LIFE!

That ’s right!

BRING THIS PIC TO LIFE!

Experience ‘augmented reality’ awesomeness with ParGolf EFX (Enhanced Feature Xperience) – an absolute FIRST for a Malaysian golf magazine.

090-091•ParGolfEFX.May15.indd 90

4/24/15 10:01 AM

Here’s how in just 3 easy-breezy steps:

BRING THIS PIC TO LIFE!

DOWNLOAD the free ParGolf EFX app – available via Apple Store & Google Play.

ACTIVATE the ParGolf EFX app.

POINT ‘N HOVER at a page/image marked with the ParGolf EFX icon.

DON’T MISS OUT!

Download the free ParGolf EFX app today and watch static pages come alive!

What Is Augmented Realit y?

‘Augmented reality’ (AR) is a live, direct or indirect, view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented by computer-generated sensory input such as sound, video, graphics or GPS data, fusing the real and the virtual world by overlaying digital data onto real-world analogue views. (Well in plain English, it’s just uber cool! Don’t take our word for it – experience it to believe it.)

BRING THIS PIC TO LIFE!

For FAQs, log on to www.pargolfmagazine.com/efxfaq The ParGolf EFX app is now available for FREE on

090-091•ParGolfEFX.May15.indd 91

and

4/24/15 10:01 AM

POTSHOTS

WOODS HAS IT ALL …

EXCEPT HIS OWN NAME

©Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Now here’s a doozy. Apparently Tiger Woods can’t name his new restaurant after himself. Why? Because Nike has the rights to the name ‘Tiger Woods’. So the golf legend has named his new “baby” ‘The Woods Jupiter: Sports and Dining Club’, set to open this month at the Harbourside Place development in Florida.

And the craziness doesn’t stop there – according to the developer, Nicholas A. Mastroianni II, anytime he wants to use Woods’ name in a press release or anything similar, he needs “permission from Woods’ business people”. (Seriously?)

Woods is apparently forking out “US$1,000 per square foot in the construction of the restaurant, about 30 percent more than most upscale restaurant owners spend”, which amounts to roughly US$8 million in total.

UN-DUF MY HEART

©Andrew Redington/Getty Images

For a couple who have shared quite a fair bit of their private moments and affection for one another on social media (especially Instagram and Twitter) with their fans worldwide, we certainly did not see this coming. Major winner Jason Dufner and wife Amanda are calling it quits after being married for three years.

According to the divorce settlement, which was filed on March 16 by Amanda, there had been an “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage” and there was “a complete incompatibility of temperament that the parties can no longer live together”.

The settlement will see Amanda receiving a gross sum of US$2.5 million, while Jason will get to keep their two houses in Auburn, Alabama.

©Jeff Zelevansky /Getty Images

SPIETH ON A HIGH

92

New Masters champion Jordan Spieth has had to put up with a heck of a post-Masters schedule before playing his first event as a Major champion at the RBC Heritage – it began with a trip to the Empire State Building in New York, and continued with an appearance on 'The Late Show with David Letterman', along with numerous appearances on news and golf programmes.

Then before flying back home to his newly-purchased Dallas mansion, the 21-year-old Texan made a pit-stop in Arlington to present the award for female vocalist of the year at the Academy of Country Music Awards, where he shared the stage with country rockstars Darius Rucker (ex Hootie & The Blowfish) and Jake Owen – wearing, of course, the Green Jacket!

ParGolf MAY 2015

092•Potshots.May15.indd 92

4/24/15 9:55 AM

RAMADHAN PROMOTION 18 JUNE – 16 JULY 2015

TUESDAYS – FRIDAYS (EXCEPT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS)

@ RM127.20 nett per pax

SUNDAY AFTERNOONS

@ RM164.30 nett per pax

Package inclusive of 18 holes green fee, twin sharing buggy, daily insurance TERMS & CONDITIONS • Caddies are compulsory, subject to availability at RM63.60 per caddie • Single surcharge applies for flight of 3 balls at RM74.20 • All rates quoted are inclusive of 6% Goods & Services Tax • No rain checks allowed

HORIZON HILLS RESORT BERHAD (769101-H) No 1 Jalan Eka, Horizon Hills, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor Darul Takzim Tel: 07-2323166 Fax: 07-2323919 Email: general@hhgcc.com.my Facebook: facebook.com/horizon.hills.com.my GPS Coordinate: 1.452196,103.638829

093•Ad.HHGCC.indd 93

4/24/15 12:08 PM

TIME ZONE

METEORITE APPEAL Jaeger-LeCoultre The new Master Calendar of Jaeger-LeCoultre is imbued with a seductive appeal exercising its own laws of gravity, thanks to the dial composed of meteorite stone originating from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

Representing the iconic calendar complication, the complete calendar of the timepiece displays the perpetual calendar by means of a long hand tipped with a moon crescent sweeping around a scale around the dial rim graduated from 1 to 31. It also indicates the day of the week and the month in twin apertures at 12 o’clock.

The 39mm case is designed to adapt to the curve of any wrist, while the sapphire crystal case-back reveals the intricate workings of Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 866.

BOLD NEW EARTH Calvin Klein

94

INDIGO SPARKLE Hermes '

The new Calvin Klein Earth watch features a bold and elegantly hardy exterior, underlining its urban, refined nature.

The model comes with a substantial brushed stainless steel or PVD black case that signifies enduring masculinity and makes the watch the perfect accent for a casual chic weekend look.

Needless embellishment is cast aside in favour of honesty through smart simplification of form. The apparent simplicity of the watch gives way to eloquent details, while it adds a sporty, elegant hint to its design overall.

Water resistant up to 10 bar, Earth features a coordinating dial and comes with white, khaki, blue or black textile strap.

Arceau Ecuyère Aventurine by Hermès features the distinguished design of a true classic, embellished with a diamondstudded round case and asymmetrical lugs. Originally designed by the legendary Henri d’Origny in 1978, the Arceau collection is the epitome of understated elegance.

The new timepiece measures 34mm in diameter and is equipped with the H1912 Manufacture movement. Its dial is set with 28 diamonds and a silver-powdered transfer; the 74 diamonds set in the case are Top Wesselton VVS diamonds.

A matt indigo blue alligator strap complements the piece with classic elegance. Finally, the subtle asymmetrical design of the two lugs – inspired by the shape of stirrups – offers a delicately refined disruption of this sublime composition.

ParGolf MAY 2015

094-095•Time Zone.May15.indd 94

4/23/15 7:15 PM

NAUTICAL SWISS Edox The new Edox Grand Ocean Valjoux Chronograph Automatic timepieces, specially created for the 2015 Extreme Sailing Series, are engineered to ensure precision timing of some of the world’s best skippers in thrilling close-to-shore duels in high-tech multi-hull craft.

The timepiece’s dial, housed within a multiple-piece 48mm case, features chronograph hours and minutes displays with a day/date window and a seconds sub-dial at 9 o’clock designed like a compass. Powered by the Valjoux 7750 automatic movement, the watch comes in ocean blue PVD-coated stainless steel, gunmetal PVD-coated stainless steel, and rose gold PVD-coated stainless steel.

It also features triple ‘toothed’ lugs, rotating diver’s bezel, and luminous hands and indices for readability in low-light conditions.

Water resistant up to 100m, the watch is fitted with a leather strap.

SMART TICKER Alpina Powered by MotionX, the new Horological Smartwatch models by Swiss brand Alpina boast a ‘smart’ feature that enables the watches bi-directional communication with iPhone and Android apps when connected.

The new ladies watch comes with a silver dial, housed in a refined brushed and polished stainless steel 39mm case, along with a metal bracelet. Displaying central hours and minutes hands, the ‘smart’ counter is positioned at 6 o’clock. The small red hand indicates the date during the day and will point out the moon in the night.

The MotionX patented sensor-fusion engine tracks activity and sleep patterns with high accuracy.

RESOLUTE PASSION Corum Preserving traditions while remaining resolutely contemporary is an art that is perfectly illustrated in the pair of Feather Watch models by Corum. The design is a tribute to 1970s timepieces and the 5N 18K red gold case comes in a finely wrought 39mm diameter. The dials are preciously set with peacock feathers and on one model the feathers are framed by 120 round-cut diamonds (approx. 0.71 cts).

Beating at the heart of these exceptional timepieces is an automatic CO 082 movement, with a 42-hour power reserve.

Adding the final touch of refinement, these models are secured to the wrist with a black crocodile strap featuring a curved spring-bar.

ParGolf ParGolf MAY MAY 2015 2015

094-095•Time Zone.May15.indd 95

9595

4/23/15 7:15 PM

STYLE LOUNGE > MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL

FOLDABLE BALLERINA Pedro Foldable pumps are great for just about any woman – especially those always on the go, so the petite foldable ballerina flats range from Pedro is practically a godsend for active mothers. Designed to fold compactly, the shoes come in four select colours – pastel pink, blue, mustard yellow and classic black – made from genuine leather, topped off with a dainty bow and a hint of glimmer with a hanging metal emblem.

Storage of these ballerinas is hassle-free as each pair comes in an exclusive compact pouch which fits perfectly in a medium-size tote or handbag. Trust us – this is one Mother’s Day gift that will score you heaps of brownie points!

DAZZLING DARLINGS Swarovski Inspired by early spring flowers, Swarovski’s Mother’s Day selection infuses a contemporary and modern feel with the brand’s distinctive DNA and know-how. As seen on muse Miranda Kerr, the ‘Christie’ pendant stands out with full cut crystals in gradation of pink and mauve, surrounded by crystal pave, in a fine-jewellery spirit. It can be paired with several necklaces that can be worn in different lengths.

The ‘Stardust’ bracelet, meanwhile, is offered in soft shades, to be worn alone for a subtle addition of sparkle, or stacked to make a glamorous statement. For ring lovers, the ‘Vittore’ ring features a classic and simple aesthetic, while the ‘Celestin’ bangles, available in three different metal colour platings, feature clean and graphic interpretation of pearls.

ELEMENTS OF SUMMER Charles & Keith This season, Charles & Keith offers an element of finesse coupled with contemporary appeal. There’s the Awakening theme, framing the naturalistic movement of yoga and ballet in a subdued number for a collection stripped of excesses. Nordica draws upon the raw and natural as its point, bringing into being flashes of blue, brown, nude, navy and wood etching patterns.

The more classic Ritual delivers a mash-up of pop colours, silver and black heightens intensity as black lizard and horn print augment the collection, while En Forme strikes a balance between feminine and fearless characters by embracing a tough and sexy exterior.

Products available include footwear such as Cage Footbed sandals, D’Orsay, Espadrille sandals, Ghillies, Vulcanized slip-ons and Lucite heels; and bags such as totes, wallets, wristlets, hobos and satchels.

96

ParGolf MAY 2015

096-097•Style Lounge.May15.indd 96

4/24/15 9:55 AM

BEACH READY DO Paris The DO Paris Spring/Summer 2015 collection merges femininity and edge to create chic swimwear pieces that are trendy enough to be worn with jeans or skirts, making them ideal and practical gifts for beach-loving moms who are always game to explore new oceanic territories.

With plunging necklines and sensual cuts, the pieces offer graphic, bold prints that create elegant optical illusions, giving them an air of understated luxury, while asymmetric lines and cubist prints flatter the figure. Apart from bikinis that are fun and playful featuring bursts of colour, the line also offers matching shirts, sarongs and dresses that can be paired to create looks that are modern and chic.

PINK PASSION Oscar de la Renta

CLAS-CHIC SHADES Dior The latest eyewear collection from Dior captivates with its fusion of classic nuances that will never go out of style. Raf Simons brings haute couture traditions to ready-to-wear while taking it to a new dimension – “more modern, mode dynamic, more real”.

The Dior Technologic collection explores classic shapes and brings them forward, into a futuristic universe. The ultra-modern open-worked metal front features surprisingly flat lenses for an avant-garde style, while the tonal shiny metal and mirrored lenses contrast with black soft-touch acetate temples. Effortlessly chic, the collection comes in silver, gold, black, graphic silver and graphic gold metal frames.

‘Extraordinary’ by Oscar de la Renta embodies great passion, confidence and style, ready to capture hearts of women everywhere.

Forming the top notes of the fragrance are cherry blossom and bittersweet neroli, derived from the bitter orange tree known for being both sweet and somewhat spicy, before making way for peony and rose. The scent dries down to a sexy, sophisticated combination of blond wood, vanilla orchid and amber resin.

Extraordinary is housed in a celestial-inspired glass bottle that highlights the pink-hued perfume, designed by Oscar de la Renta himself.

ParGolf MAY 2015

096-097•Style Lounge.May15.indd 97

97

4/24/15 9:56 AM

SPRING SUMMERY CHIC Braun Büffel gets inspired by the luxurious view along the alluring coasts of Italy this season – from the breezy islands and rich architecture to the playful, stylish and vibrant nature of Italians – complemented by inviting waters off the coasts. Ahh la dolce vita. The Spring/Summer 2015 collections for men and women, thoughtfully designed to incorporate the unique elements of coastal Italy into the Braun Büffel style, as usual boast the brand’s traditional heritage of excellent craftsmanship, reliability and functionality –

all raring to serve in a spectrum of styles and invigorating colours.

This season, Braun Büffel combines bold and zesty colours with exceptional designs that are practical for anytime of the day whatever the occasion may be.

The palette of the season delights with a range of blues inspired by the sea, yellow from the summer sun along with a bright shade of tan. Shapes of the bags are more structured and come in an array of styles to suit different occasions.

Individual collections, meanwhile, flaunt

pieces in vibrant new hues coupled with the use of an eclectic mix of leather – sure to win over even the most discerning leather lover.

JK Constructed from matt coarse grained buffalo leather, the JK collection for her lets you go from office to after-hours effortlessly. Pieces in this collection are spacious for storing necessities without appearing overbearing and intrusive with functional front pockets and compartments. Accessorised with a cut-out Braun Büffel icon buckle, the collection is not only edgy but also young and refreshing thanks to its vibrant palette of Aqua, Black, Latte and Stone.

098-099•Advt.BRAUNBUFFEL.May15.indd 98

4/24/15 1:37 PM

‹ ADVERTORIAL›

CURZIO Designed for the poised, metropolitan gentleman, Curzio is all about refined fabrication and clean lines.

Made of fine grain calf leather, the briefcase and clutch available in this collection keep your essentials neatly and stylishly organised with its functional front pocket. Curzio also comes in grey and navy, making it perfect for young and aspiring executives to stay chic and professional.

ANYA The Anya collection for women, crafted from smooth calf leather, features a clean design and sophisticated colours, making pieces from this darling collection perfect for the sharp, no-compromise professional. Accentuated with a cut-out Braun Büffel icon buckle, Anya exudes subdued elegance with a hint of edginess as showcased in pieces such as the Top Handle bag, Boston bag, Tote bag, and Flap Shoulder bag.

TIBERIO Boasting a zesty palette, Tiberio is uncomplicated yet impossibly sophisticated, suited for young and trendconscious men. Crafted from Italian hairhorse-printed calf leather, the collection shines in Black, Sea, Seal, Siena, Stone and Sun, taking you from the severity of the corporate world to the fun and whimsical world of pleasure whilst keeping true to the brand’s tradition in leather goods.

Braun Büffel Boutique listing: Suria KLCC • Pavilion Kuala Lumpur • Lot 10 • The Gardens, Mid Valley City • 1 Utama • Sunway Pyramid • Empire Shopping Gallery • Alamanda Shopping Centre • AEON Bukit Tinggi Shopping Centre, Klang • Queensbay Mall, Penang • Gurney Plaza • G Hotel Penang • Hatten Square, Melaka • AEON Tebrau City Shopping Centre, JB • Johor Bahru City Square Shopping Centre • 1 Borneo, KK, Sabah • Suria Sabah Shopping Mall • KL International Airport, Satellite Building, South Zone, Gate G31-C37

098-099•Advt.BRAUNBUFFEL.May15.indd 99

4/24/15 1:37 PM

CARS+PARS CARS+PARS

ALLURING DYNAMISM PEUGEOT 308 THP

The Peugeot 308 THP (Turbo High Pressure) has been face-lifted both inside and out to be more aerodynamic, sportier and fun to drive. Based on the new generation EMP2 platform (Efficient Modular Platform 2), the model is shorter and lower for enhanced performance. The multiple award-winning Turbo High Pressure (THP) 1.6-litre engine combines high pressure direction injection coupled with advanced turbocharger

technology which outputs 150hp and 240Nm of torque. It makes the century sprint in 9.4 seconds, with a top speed of 211km/h.

The cabin is more driver-centric, featuring a sports leather compact steering wheel, a high position head-up instrument panel, a high centre console, and a 9.7” HD multifunction touchscreen. A new addition is the Driver Assistance Pack that includes

Dynamic cruise control and Emergency Collision Alert system for added safety.

Enhancing the premium level of the 308 are full LED headlights, six airbags, Alcantara seats, panoramic roof and 18-inch wheels.

Other features include park assist, reverse camera, keyless entry and push start button, and dual-zone climate control.

The Peugeot 308 THP is tagged at RM132,888 (OTR with insurance).

its own devices, and a 104kW electric motor.

Apart from this, the Hill Start Assist, available in the Hybrid and G variants, has the capability of preventing the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting on a slope while ABS, Electronic Brake

Distribution and airbag systems are offered to all variants.

The price of the new Camry ranges between RM149,900 and RM174,900 (OTR with insurance; Peninsular Malaysia).

ALL-NEW SIRENS TOYOTA CAMRY

The latest additions to join the Camry lineup, the new 2.5-litre Hybrid, 2.0-litre G and E Camry will appeal to those who desire sporty and dynamic looks along with luxurious comfort – created in line with the ‘Keen Look’ identity and ‘Under Priority’ design philosophy.

The Camry Hybrid model, the first Toyota hybrid to be locally-assembled (CKD), comes with impressive new safety features such as seven airbags, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert system, as well as Nano-e TM purifier. Under the hood lies Toyota’s two-motor full hybrid Hybrid Synergy Drive system, which features an Atkinson cycle 2.5-litre, four cylinder engine which makes 160ps and 213Nm of torque on

100

ParGolf MAY 2015

100•Cars+ParsNews.May15.indd 100

4/23/15 2:23 PM

THE LOBBY

NILAI SPRINGS RESORT HOTEL PT4770, Nilai Springs, 71800 Putra Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.

Tel: +606-850 2288 Fax: +606-850 2299 A 4-star resort hotel offering 183 spacious guest rooms and suites with full amenities, five F&B outlets, a grand ballroom and 13 meeting rooms to cater to your business requirements, private functions or even for a weekend escapade.

It's the perfect destination for: • Airline transit passengers • Meetings and seminars • Teambuilding/Family Day/Telematch/Mini Amazing Race • Challenging 27 Holes Golf Course

resort hotel P U T R A

N I L A I ,

M A L A Y S I A

★★★★

101•Lobby.May15.indd 101

4/24/15 10:01 AM

WORLD AMATEUR INTER-TEAM GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

Bruneians Seize Top Honours 2015 edition of WAITGC kicks off in Johor, mighty Brunei brings home first leg victory

T

he highly-anticipated World Amateur Inter-Team Golf Championship (WAITGC) 2015 kicked off with the first of six qualifying rounds at two of Johor’s most renowned courses, the Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort and the Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club.

Played from March 9-12, the event, organised by Tourism Malaysia, brought together a total of 20 teams eager to show off their skills and enjoy a competitive yet enjoyable golfing experience at the courses.

Golfers were put to the test as they teed off first at Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort’s layouts beautifully crafted over rolling hills of oil palm plantations. The tournament then continued at Horizon Hills’ 18-hole par-72 course, offering an international standard layout stretching 6,271 metres.

After a demanding four days of competition, Team Anak Kedayan from Brunei showed what they were made of by emerging as Team Gross champions.

The quartet, comprised of Shaiful Rizal Pehin, Md Khairul Sirajul Fikri, Suhaimi Ibrahim and Mohammed Qawim Fakhri, shoved all competition aside and claimed the win with a total of 949. Trailing way back with 990 was another Bruneian team, Mentigal, made up of Faez Ahmad, Johari Ahmad, Rizal Kassim and Qazzri Aslimon. Falling into third place was Team Copper Heads from Australia, made up of Dato’ Michael Yong, Paul Hibberd, Col Ferriman and Gavan Taylor, with a total of 1,040.

Meanwhile in the Stableford category, Brunei once again claimed victory after amassing a total of 438 points through the concerted efforts of Yussop Daud, Momin Syawal, Captain Daud and Syed Isnizam who made up Team 10/10. Aussie team Donuts, comprising Warren Seeto, Alan Wong, Stephen March and George Chong, settled for runner-up honours 20 points behind.

The subsequent leg was played at Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club and Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club in Sabah from April 20-23, with the series crossing back to the Peninsula for the third leg, namely Langkawi Island from June 8-11 (Gunung Raya Golf Resort and Els Club Teluk Datai), Kuala Lumpur from August 102

Team Gross champions Anak Kedayan

Nett champions Team 10/10

10-13 (Kota Permai Golf & Country Club and Impian Golf & Country Club), and Melaka from September 28 to October 1 (Tiara Melaka Golf & Country Club and A’Famosa Golf & Country Club). The 2015 series will culminate in a grand finale at Kuala Lumpur’s Sungai Long Golf & Country Club and The Mines Resort & Golf Club from November 17-19.

The WAITGC, played in Strokeplay format for the gross category and Stableford for the nett and senior categories, is Tourism Malaysia’s initiative to promote Malaysia as a top-of-mind golf destination in the region. Since its debut in 1994, WAITGC has emerged as a wellregarded tournament and one of the

highly anticipated golfing events on the avid golfer’s calendar, having attracted more than 500 participants every year.

Apart from testing golfers’ on-course skills, the series also encourages them to discover the various cultures and traditions in Malaysia, as well as the country’s lip-smacking cuisines and fascinating attractions.

The World Amateur Inter-Team Golf Championship is managed by the Golf Club Managers’ Association of Malaysia (GCMAM) and sanctioned by the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA). For more information, contact the WAITGC Secretariat at 03-5633 2079/5634 2078 or visit www.waitgc.com. PG

WORLD AMATEUR INTER-TEAM GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP 2015 SCHEDULE Round

Date

1

Mar 9 - 12

Location

Johor – Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort, Horizon Hills GCC

2

Apr 20 - 23

Sabah – Dalit Bay GCC, Sutera Harbour GCC Langkawi – Gunung Raya GR, The Els Club Teluk Datai

3

June 8 - 11

4

Aug 10 - 13

Kuala Lumpur – Kota Permai GCC, Impian GCC

5

Sept 28 - Oct 1

Melaka – Tiara Melaka GCC, A’Famosa GR

Grand Final

Nov 17 - 19

Kuala Lumpur – Sungai Long GCC, The Mines Resort

ParGolf MAY 2015

102•waitgc.May15.indd 102

4/23/15 2:24 PM

LIBERTY CUP – SIEM REAP

Cambodian King

Ly Hong is champ again in third Liberty Cup ©T Ravi Chitty

BY LOO KENG YIP

©T Ravi Chitty

Ladies champ Ong Gim Hong (L)

like SP Maniam, the 2014 Carlsberg Golf Classic champion, and Eddy Ismail who was nett winner of the same tournament.

Malaysia's Daljit Singh Bhagwan Singh bagged the senior division title with a gross total of 149 from the white tees.

Ong Gim Hong, meanwhile, was the ladies champion from the 11-woman field, carding a total of 167.

Participants also took the opportunity to visit the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site, the Angkor Wat temple complex and ‘Pub Street’, Siem Reap's large tourist enclave featuring live bands, great food, souvenir shopping and more.

The tournament reached a fitting finale with the prize presentation and dinner at the Angkor Palace Resort & Spa, which co-incidentally champion Ly Hong runs in his day job as general manager.

Angkor Wat

“All in all we’re very pleased with the turnout for the event and especially support from sponsors and partners like Carlsberg Malaysia, Srixon Sports Asia, Titoni and Transview," said Candra Tanpatti, the general manger of PSD Travel who co-organised the event with Liberty Golf.

The next leg is scheduled to be held in Vietnam later this year. PG

Champ Ly Hong

©ParGolf/Loo Keng Yip

M

ore than 80 golfers from six countries duked it out in the third edition of the Liberty Cup in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Held in mid-March at the Phokeethra Country Club and Angkor Golf Resort along with a practice round at the Siem Reap Booyoung Golf Club, the increasingly popular event saw golfers from Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Indonesia, Netherlands and Cambodia showing off their fairway chops in excellent weather conditions.

Local stalwart Ly Hong successfully defended his title, carding a total gross score of 160 over two rounds to finish six shots ahead of another Cambodian golfer, Im Reahul.

Roszali Baharuddin, Malaysia’s Carlsberg Golf Classic national champion in 2013, took third spot. This was no mean feat as the field included players

ParGolf MAY 2015

103•Liberty Cup.May15.indd 103

103

4/24/15 10:32 AM

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Champions Azmi Mahmud and Khairunhanisah with management representatives of Swiss-Garden

Sweet second for Azmi in Swiss-Garden Cup The weekend of March 21-22 saw the SwissGarden Beach Resort Damai Laut all abuzz with activity and excitement as the sixth edition of the Swiss-Garden Cup teed off.

Golfers from all over Malaysia converged at the multi-faceted resort for a weekend of great golf and fun, many taking the opportunity to bring their families for a getaway utilising the 2D/1N tournament package. The golfers played two rounds at the scenic and challenging Damai Laut Golf & Country Club course and were also feted to a barbeque dinner on Saturday night at the seaside Gayam restaurant plus a grand prize presentation lunch on Sunday.

2014 champion Azmi Mahmud once again showed his affinity for the Damai Laut course by successfully defending his title,

carding rounds of 79 and 77 for a total of 156. Playing off a four-handicap, the former national football goalkeeper won an Emirates return air ticket to Dubai, one-year Damai Laut membership, a 40” Panasonic LED TV and a 2D/1N Executive Club stay at ParGolf's Ida Fahany (R) won the Media/Sponsor's event

Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Damai Laut.

The nett title went to 12-handicapper Yauza Othman with a two-day nett total of 142. He won a 32” Panasonic LED TV, oneyear Damai Laut membership and a 2D/1N Executive Club stay at Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Damai Laut.

The ladies' title went to six-handicapper Khairunhanisah, who shot rounds of 80 and 79 for a total of 159. She won a Sharp microwave oven and a 3D/2N stay at SwissGarden Beach Resort Damai Laut.

This year’s event enjoyed the support of numerous sponsors including UniTenaga, Panasonic, Emirates, Swiss-Garden International Vacation Club, Samsonite, TaylorMade-adidas Golf, Srixon, Caely, Grindworks, Delphin and Chang Beer.

Former Kulim MP qualifies for Prudential Astro Masters Bali finale Former member of parliament for Kulim Gobalakrishnan Nagapan won the nett category in the third leg of the 2015 Prudential Astro Masters to qualify for the grand final in Bali.

After coming close on a number of earlier occasions, the 16-handicapper carded a score of nett 65 at Meru Valley Golf & Country Club.

In accordance with tournament rules, his score was adjusted to five-under 67 and he tied with two other golfers, Mohd Fazli Ramlan and Nor Hafizan Mustapa. Gobalakrishnan was deemed the winner on countback.

Joining Gobalakrishnan to the Bali finale is gross winner Adnan Che Man, who carded an 80. Both players will join the winners of the other 20 subscriber rounds in the 36-hole final at Bali Nirwana GCC and Bali National GCC. Now in its 18th year, the event has expanded its reach to 50 golf clubs affiliated to the Malaysian Golf Association. For the first time, the gross and nett winners from the selected monthly medals of these clubs will

104

qualify for a national final in Kota Permai GCC – from where the top three gross and top three nett players will advance to Bali.

The overall gross and nett winners in Bali will be invited to compete in the World Amateur Golfers Championship in Turkey in October. The gross winner will also be invited to play in the pro-am of next year’s Malaysian Open.

GRAND FINAL QUALIFIERS Round 3 – Meru Valley GCC, April 4 Gross – Adnan Che Mat 80; Nett – Gobalakrishnan Nagapan (16) 67 ocb Round 2 – Amverton Cove, March 26 Gross – Ali Shahbuddin Jidin 77; Nett – Abu Suffian Mohtar (17) 67 ocb Round 1 – Tropicana GCR, March 19 Gross – Mohd Shokri Saad 80; Nett – Mohd Sabri Ismail (24) 67 ocb

ParGolf MAY 2015

104•InTheSpotlight.May15.indd 104

4/24/15 9:57 AM

GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY KUALA LUMPUR BUKIT JALIL GCR (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 8994 1600 KELAB GOLF ANGKATAN TENTERA (9 holes) Tel: 603 - 2141 1113/881 KELAB GOLF PERKHIDMATAN AWAM (27 holes) Tel: 603 - 7957 1958 KELAB GOLF TITIWANGSA PDRM (9 holes) Tel: 603 - 2693 4964 KUALA LUMPUR GCC (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 2011 9188 KELAB GOLF MAKTAB TENTERA DIRAJA (9 holes) Tel: 603 - 9058 7212 THE ROYAL SELANGOR GC (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 9206 3333 SELANGOR AMVERTON COVE GOLF & ISLAND RESORT (18 holes) Tel: 603 – 3123 3888 /6019-380 2233 BANGI GR (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 8925 3728 BUKIT BERUNTUNG GCR (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 6028 1841 BUKIT KEMUNING GC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 5121 6552/7188 BUKIT UNGGUL CC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 8920 2888 DANAU GC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 8925 8953 GLENMARIE GCC (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 7803 9090 GUTHRIE GOLF ACADEMY PITCH & PUTT COURSE (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 7846 3505 ILSAS RECREATIONAL GC (9 holes) Tel: 019 - 395 3675 IMPIAN GCC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 8734 4195 KELAB DARUL EHSAN (9 holes) Tel: 603 - 4257 2333 KELAB GOLF NEGARA SUBANG (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 7876 0388 KELAB GOLF SERI SELANGOR (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 7806 1111/1666 KELAB GOLF SULTAN ABDUL AZIZ SHAH (27 holes) Tel: 603 - 5519 1512/5510 5872 KUALA KUBU BAHRU GCC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 6064 2887 KELAB RAHMAN PUTRA (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 6156 6870 KELAB REKREASI TENTERA UDARA (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 7847 3048 KINRARA GC (18 holes) Tel: 03 - 8076 2100 KOTA PERMAI GCC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 5122 3700 MONTEREZ GCC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 7846 5989 PADANG GOLF UNIVERSITI PUTRA MALAYSIA (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 8946 7996 PALM GARDEN GC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 8213 6333 PERANGSANG TEMPLER GCC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 6091 0022 PORT KLANG GR (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 3176 1323/5000 ROYAL KAMPUNG KUANTAN CLUB (9 holes) Tel: 603 - 3289 1069 SAUJANA GCC (36 holes) Tel: 603 - 7846 1466 SERENDAH GOLF LINKS (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 6081 1077/78 SSG BERINGIN GC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 6460 0016 SUNGAI LONG GCC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 9076 2233 SRI MORIB GC (9 holes) Tel: 603 - 3198 1418 TASIK PUTERI GCC (27 holes) Tel: 603 - 6034 4722 TEMPLER PARK CC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 6091 9617/0268 THE MINES RESORT (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 8943 2288 TROPICANA GCC (27 holes) Tel: 603 - 7804 8888 THE CLUB (9 holes) Tel: 603-7725 5199 VALENCIA GC (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 6156 0021 JOHOR AUSTIN HILLS COUNTRY RESORT (27 holes) Tel: 607 - 352 4300 BATU PAHAT GC (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 432 9221/223 BUKIT BANANG GCC (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 428 6001/2 DAIMAN 18 JOHOR BAHRU (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 351 6813/353 3100

GUTHRIE GCC (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 752 7107 HORIZON HILLS GCC (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 232 3166/238 1666 IMPIAN EMAS GCC (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 552 2202 JOHOR CC (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 223 3322 KLUANG CC (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 771 8840 KOTA TINGGI GR (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 883 1162 KUKUP GR (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 696 0950 NAM HENG COUNTRY CLUB (9 holes) Tel: 6019-775 0055 ORCHARD GCR (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 897 7934/6470 PALM RESORT GCC (54 holes) Tel: 607 - 599 6222 PALM VILLA GCR (27 holes) Tel: 607 - 599 9099 PERMAS JAYA GC (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 388 7010 PONDEROSA GCC (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 354 9999 PORESIA CC (36 holes) Tel: 607 - 510 2033 PULAI SPRINGS CC (36 holes) Tel: 607 - 521 2121 SEGAMAT CC (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 943 5968 SEBANA GOLF & MARINE RESORT (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 826 6655 S.T. RHODES CLUB (9 holes) Tel: 607 - 926 1209 STARHILL GR (36 holes) Tel: 607 - 556 6325 TANJUNG EMAS GC (9 holes)Tel: 606 - 952 1550 TANJUNG PUTERI GCC (54 holes) Tel: 607 - 271 1888 THE LEGENDS GCR (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 652 4388 TIOMAN ISLAND GC (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 419 1000 MELAKA A’FAMOSA GR (27 holes) Tel: 606 - 552 0888 AYER KEROH CC (27 holes) Tel: 606 - 233 2000/2001 ORNA GCC (27 holes) Tel: 606 - 521 0333 TIARA MELAKA GCC (27 holes) Tel: 606 - 231 1111/2366 NEGERI SEMBILAN 1388 GOLF COURSE (9 holes) Tel: 606 – 601 3546 GEMAS GR (18 holes) Tel: 607 - 948 2687 NILAI SPRINGS GCC (27 holes) Tel: 606 - 850 8888 PORT DICKSON GCC (18 holes) Tel : 606 - 647 3586/3123 ROYAL PALM SPRINGS GC (18 holes) Tel: 606 - 661 0260 ROYAL SRI MENANTI GC (18 holes) Tel: 606 - 497 9600 / 900 SEREMBAN INTERNATIONAL GC (18 holes) Tel: 606 - 677 5277 STAFFIELD CR (27 holes) Tel: 603 - 8766 6117/8/9 THISTLE RESORT (9 holes) Tel: 606 - 662 7878 UTOPIA GR (18 holes) Tel: 019 - 255 3059 PERAK CLEARWATER SANCTUARY GR (27 holes) Tel: 605 - 366 7433 DAMAI LAUT GCC (18 holes) Tel: 605 - 685 9330/32/33 KINTA GC (18 holes) Tel: 605 - 366 7270 KUALA KANGSAR GC (9 holes) Tel: 605 - 776 2396 MERU VALLEY GCC (27 holes) Tel: 605 - 529 3300/3333 ROYAL PERAK GC (18 holes) Tel: 605 - 547 3266/542 3266 TAIPING GCC (18 holes) Tel: 605 - 883 7500/6060/7070 TELUK INTAN GCC (18 holes) Tel: 605 – 623 7421

PULAU PINANG BUKIT JAWI GR (36 holes) Tel: 604 - 582 0759/60/61 MOUNTAIN VIEW GOLF RESORT (18 holes) Tel: 604 – 226 6701 PENANG GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: 604 - 644 2255 PENANG GR (36 holes) Tel: 604 - 578 2022 PENANG TURF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: 604 – 226 6701 KEDAH 99 EAST GOLF CLUB (9 holes) Tel: 604 – 967 1153/955 1153 BLACK FOREST GCC (18 holes) Tel: 604 - 922 2790 /822 CINTA SAYANG GCC (18 holes) Tel: 604 - 441 4666 DARULAMAN GCC (18 holes) Tel: 604 - 917 0001 GUNUNG RAYA GR (18 holes) Tel: 604 - 966 8148 HARVARD GCC (27 holes) Tel: 604 - 458 6887 KULIM GCR (27 holes) Tel: 604 - 403 2828 PERMAIPURA GCC (18 holes) Tel: 604 - 459 4000 ROYAL KEDAH GC (9 holes) Tel: 604 - 731 9405/733 0467 SG. PETANI GC (9 holes) Tel: 604 - 422 4894 THE ELS CLUB TELUK DATAI (18 holes) Tel: 604 – 959 2700 PERLIS PUTRA GC (18 holes) Tel: 604 - 976 9660 UUM (9 holes) Tel: 604 – 9282 684 KELANTAN DESA PAHLAWAN GC (9 holes) Tel: 609 – 7878 200 ext 2121 KELANTAN GCC (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 748 2102/774 7474 KELAB GOLF GUA MUSANG (9 holes) Tel: 609 – 9120 011/012 TERENGGANU GREEN ACRES GCR (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 616 3500 / 3600 KELAB GOLF DESA DUNGUN (18 holes) Tel/Fax: 609 - 848 1041 KELAB GOLF & REKREASI PETRONAS (18 holes) Tel: 609 – 8040 232 KUALA TERENGGANU GR (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 666 0000 PGR PUTERI GR (18 holes) Tel: 019 - 956 4760 RESORTS WORLD KIJAL (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 864 1188 PAHANG AWANA GENTING HIGHLANDS GCR (18 holes) Tel: 603 - 6436 9000 BERJAYA HILLS GCC (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 288 8890 CAMERON HIGHLANDS GC (18 holes) Tel: 605 - 4911126 FRASER’S HILL GC (9 holes) Tel: 609 - 362 2888 / 03 - 2691 6633 KELAB GOLF BENTONG (9 holes) Tel: 609 - 222 2585 KELAB GOLF KEM UNGKU NAZAMUDDIN (9 holes) Tel: 609 - 312 2901 KELAB REKREASI SRI MAHKOTA (9 holes) Tel: 609 - 277 7831 KELAB REKREASI TUDM KUANTAN (9 holes) Tel: 609 - 538 4282 LIPIS VALLEY GC (9 holes) Tel:609 - 312 1963/4/5 MARAN HILL GOLF RESORT (18 holes) Tel:609 – 468 9187 ROYAL PAHANG GC (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 567 5811 SERAI DI LANJUT BGR Tel: 609 - 414 7688 SELESA HILL HOMES GR (18 holes) Tel: 609 - 233 0072, KL (603 - 4042 6931), 609 - 233 0039 (Reception)

LABUAN KELAB GOLF LABUAN (9 holes) Tel: 087-412 810 / 712 LABUAN INTERNATIONAL GC (18 holes) Tel: 087 - 468 468 SABAH BORNEO GR (18 holes) Tel: 087 - 861 888 DALIT BAY GCC (18 holes) Tel: 088 - 791 188 KENINGAU GC (18 holes) Tel: 087 - 331 113/336 814/336 825 KINABALU GC (9 holes) Tel: 088 - 251 615/234 904 KUDAT GC (18 holes) Tel: 088-611 002/621 337 LAHAD DATU GCC (18 holes) Tel: 089 - 867 288 MIMPIAN JADI GC (18 holes) Tel: 088 - 787 122 MOUNT KINABALU GC Tel: 088 - 889 445 NEXUS GOLF RESORT KARAMBUNAI (18 holes) Tel: 6088 - 411 215/411 033 SABAH GCC (18 holes) Tel: 088 - 247 533 SANDAKAN GCC (18 holes) Tel: 089 - 660 557 SHAN-SHUI GCR (18 holes) Tel: 089 - 916 888 SIGALONG GCC (18 holes) Tel: 6016-830 3657 SUTERA HARBOUR GCC (27 holes) Tel: 088 - 318 888 TAMBUNAN GC (18 holes) Tel: 6087-773 114/115 TAWAU GOLF CLUB (27 holes) Tel: 089 - 765 555 / 772 776 SARAWAK BINTULU GC (18 holes) Tel: 086 - 253 213 DAMAI GCC (18 holes) Tel: 082 - 846 088 EASTWOOD VALLEY GCC (18 holes) Tel: 6085 - 421 010 HORNBILL GOLF & JUNGLE CLUB (18 holes) Tel: 6082 - 573 980 (Sales Office) KELAB GOLF SARAWAK (36 holes) Tel: 082 - 444 791 KELAB GOLF SIBU (18 holes) Tel: 084 - 228 119 MIRI GC (18 hole) Tel: 085 - 416 786 PRISONS GC (9 holes) Tel: 082 - 613 544 SAMARAHAN CC (18 holes) Tel: 6013-8161 876 BRUNEI DARUSSALAM PANAGA GC (18 holes) Tel: 673 - 3373 142 / 372 936 PANTAI MENTIRI GC (18 holes) Tel: 673 - 2791 021 / 673-2792 014 RBA GOLF CLUB (18 holes) Tel: 673 - 234 3724 / 27 ROYAL BRUNEI GCC (18 holes) Tel: 673 - 261 1582 THE EMPIRE GC (18 holes) Tel: 673 - 241 8888 SINGAPORE CHANGI GC (9 holes) Tel: 65 - 6545 5133 JURONG CC (18 holes) Tel: 65 - 6560 5655 KEPPEL CLUB (18 holes) Tel: 65 - 6375 5567 LAGUNA NATIONAL GC (36 holes) Tel: 65 - 6542 6888 MARINA BAY GC (18 holes) Tel: 65 - 6345 7788 NATIONAL SERVICE RESORT (45 holes) Tel: 65 - 6542 8288 ORCHID CC (27 holes) Tel: 65 - 6750 2107 RAFFLES CC (36 holes) Tel: 65 - 6861 7649 SELETAR CC (36 holes) Tel: 65 - 6481 4812 SEMBAWANG CC (18 holes) Tel: 65 - 6257 0642 SENTOSA GC (36 holes) Tel: 65 - 6275 0022 SINGAPORE ISLAND CC (72 holes) Tel: 65 - 6461 7370 TANAH MERAH CC (36 holes) Tel: 65 - 6542 3040 WARREN GCC (18 holes) Tel: 65 - 6586 1211

ParGolf MAY 2015

105-109•GCD.May15.indd 105

105

4/24/15 10:01 AM

GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY

Surprising Amverton

The Golfers Paradise

Home Of The Eagles

AMVERTON COVE GOLF & ISLAND RESORT

A‘FAMOSA GOLF RESORT

BUKIT UNGGUL COUNTRY CLUB

PT 673, Jalan Pulau Carey, Mukim Jugra, 4290 Pulau Carey, Selangor Tel: +6019-338 2233 / +6019-383 2233 E-mail: sales@amvertoncove.com Website: www.amvertoncove.com Designer: Jason Winter, E&G Parslow Description: 18 holes, 5,875m

Tel: +606-552 0555 Fax: +606-552 8751 Email: operations.golf@afamosa.com Website: www.afamosa.com Designer: Ross C. Watson Description: 27 holes, Rocky - 3,182m, Crocodile - 3,154m, Palm - 3,215m

Lot PT 2180, 2181 & 2182, Mukim Dengkil, 43807 Daerah Sepang, Selangor Tel: +603-8920 2888 Fax: +603-8926 7870 Website: www.bukitunggul.com Designer: Ronald Fream Description: 18 holes, 5,858m, par 71

Play the Best

Never Too Far From Anywhere

Public Golfer’s Paradise

BUKIT JALIL GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

STAFFIELD COUNTRY RESORT

DAIMAN 18 PUBLIC COURSE

Jalan Jalil Perkasa 3, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-8994 1600 Fax: +603-8994 1542 E-mail: jalil@berjayaclubs.com Website: www.berjayaclubs.com/jalil Designer: Max Wexler Description: 18 holes, 6,228m, par 72

Batu 13, Seremban-KL, 71700 Mantin, Negeri Sembilan Tel: +603-8766 6117/+6018-222 1919 Fax: +603-8766 7173 Email: staffield@berjayaclubs.com Website: www.berjayaclubs.com/staffield Designer: Graham Marsh & Ross Watson Description: 27 holes, Championship Course

18, Jalan Pesona, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Tel: +607-351 6813 / 353 3100 Fax: +607-351 6823 E-mail: daiman18@daiman.com.my Website: www.daiman.com.my Designer: Golf Oasis Sdn Bhd Description: 18 holes, 5,651m, par 71

Golfing At Its Very Best

Johor’s Hidden Jewel

Borneo's Golfing Haven

KELAB DARUL EHSAN Taman Tun Abdul Razak, Jalan Kerja Air Lama Ampang Jaya, 68000 Selangor Tel: +603-4257 2333/+603-4253 2333 Fax: +603-4257 6293 Email: kde@berjayaclubs.com Website: www.berjayaclubs.com/kde Designer: Ronald Fream Description: 9 holes

BUKIT BANANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB No. 1, Persiaran Gemilang, Bandar Banang Jaya 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor Darul Takzim Tel: +607-428 6001 Fax: +607-428 6801 Email: banang@berjayaclubs.com Website: www.berjayaclubs.com/banang Designer: Michael Coates & Associates Description: 18 Holes Championship Course

SHANGRI-LA'S RASA RIA RESORT & SPA DALIT BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Pantai Dalit, PO Box 578, 89208 Tuaran, Sabah Tel: +6088-791 188 Fax: +6088-792 128 Website: www.dalitbaygolf.com.my Designer: E & G Parslow (M) Sdn Bhd Description: 18 holes, 6,369m, par 72

Log-on to www.pargolfmagazine.com for the 106

ParGolf MAY 2015

105-109•GCD.May15.indd 106

4/24/15 10:01 AM

Play Exciting Golf

DANAU GOLF CLUB

In Pursuit of Perfection

GLENMARIE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Pride Of Nusajaya

HORIZON HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor Tel: +603-8925 1010 Fax: +8925 5326 Website: www.danaugolf.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/DANAUGOLF Description: 18 holes, 6,340m, par 72 Managed by: Saujana Scape & Greens S/B

No 3, Jalan Usahawan U1/8, 40150, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: +603-7803 9090 Fax: +603-7803 2728 E-mail: ggcc@glenmarie.com.my Website: www.glenmariegolf.com Designer: Max Wexler Description: 18 holes Valley Course (6,412m, par 72) & 18 holes Garden Course (6,404m, par 72, Night Golfing) Accommodation: Holiday In Kuala Lumpur Glenmarie

No. 1 Jln Eka, Horizon Hills, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor Tel : +607-232 3166 Fax : +607-232 3919 E-mail: general@hhgcc.com.my Website: www.hhgcc.com.my Designer: Ross Watson Description: 18 holes, 6271m, par 72 Maintenance: Mon

Malaysia’s Best

Pride Of The Civil Service

Home of Night Golfing

IMPIAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

KELAB GOLF PERKHIDMATAN AWAM

KELAB GOLF SULTAN ABDUL AZIZ SHAH

Batu 14, Jln Cheras, 43000 Kajang, Selangor Tel: +603-8734 4195/96/97 Fax: +603-8734 8133 Website: www.igcc.com.my Designer: Ross C. Watson & Tze To Kok Yia Description: 18 holes, par 72 Maintenance: Mon

Bukit Kiara, Off Jalan Damansara, 60000 Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-7957 3344 Fax: +603-7957 7821 Website: www.kgpagolf.com Designer: Ronald Fream Description: 27 holes - Hill, Lake, Forest

No. 1, Rumah Kelab, Jln Kelab Golf 13/6 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor Tel: 603 - 5519 1512/5510 5872 Fax: 603 - 5510 5860 Website: www.kgsaas.com.my Designer: Thomson, Wolveridge & Assoc.

Description: 27 holes - 9,565m, par 72

Serene Beauty

Tee Off With Mother Nature

Where Living & Leisure Come Together

KOTA PERMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB No 1, Jalan 31/100A, Kota Kemuning Section 31, 40460 Shah Alam, Selangor Tel: +603-5122 3700 Fax: +603-5122 3701/2/3 E-mail : kpgcc@kotapermai.com.my Website : www.kotapermai.com.my Designer: Ross Watson Description: 18 holes, 6,396m, par 72 Maintenance: Mon

LABUAN INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB Jalan Sungai Pagar, 87000 Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan Tel: +6087-468468 Fax: +6087-468467 E-mail : reservations@ligc.com.my Website : www.ligc.com.my Designer: Parslow & Winter Golf Course Design Owned by Labuan Corporation, managed by SSGSB Description: 18 holes, 6,182m, par 72

latest news and happenings in golf

MONTEREZ GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB No. 1, Jalan Merah Kesumba, U9/18, Seksyen U9 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor Tel: +603-7846 5989 Fax: +603-7846 7881 E-mail: mgcc@monterez.com.my Website: www.monterez-golf.com Description: 18 holes, 5,699m, par 71

Join us on

and

ParGolf MAY 2015

105-109•GCD.May15.indd 107

107

4/24/15 10:01 AM

GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY

A Golfer’s Paradise

NILAI SPRINGS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Pristine Surroundings

ORNA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Oasis For Golfing And Family Leisure In Johor

PALM RESORT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PT 4770, Nilai Springs, 71800 Putra Nilai, Negeri Sembilan Tel: +606-850 8888 Fax: +606-850 3005/3388 Website: www.nilaispringsgolf.com.my Designer: DL Golf Development Sdn Bhd Description: 27 holes, Mango, Island & Pine Course

Batu 16, Jln Gapam, Ladang Gapam 77200 Bemban, Melaka Tel: +606-521 0333 Fax: +606-521 0222 Website: www.ornaresort.com.my Designer: Andy Dye Description: 27 holes, par 72 - East, West & North Course

Jalan Persiaran Golf, Off Jalan Jumbo, 81250 Senai, Johor Tel: +607-599 6222 Fax: +607-599 6001 E-mail: golfbooking@palmresort.com Website: www.palmresort.com Designer: Hiromasa Inagawa Description: 54 holes, Allamanda Course 6,855m, Cempaka Course 7,156m, Melati Course 7,205m

Excellent By Nature

The Family And Golfer's Paradise

Great Golf, Great Food

PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB

IOI PALM VILLA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT

PENANG GOLF CLUB (formerly Bukit Jambul Country Club)

IOI Resort City, 62502, Putrajaya, Malaysia.

Tel: +603-8213 6333 Fax: +603-8213 6388/99 E-mail: marketing@palmgarden.net.my Website: www.palmgarden.net.my Designer: Ted Parslow Description: 18 holes, Eugenia Course 2,960m, Bismarck Course 2,820m

PTD 44500, Jalan Indah Utama, Bandar Putra, 81000 Kulai, Johor Tel: +607-599 9099 Fax: +607-598 8101 E-mail: palmvilla@ioigroup.com Website: www.palmvilla.com.my Designer: Rick Robbins Description: 27 holes, Palm Nine 3,012m, Putra Nine 3,097m, IOI Nine 3,253m

No. 2 Jalan Bukit Jambul, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang Tel: +604-644 2255 Fax: +604-644 9345 E-mail: reception@penanggolfclub.com.my Website: www.penanggolfclub.com.my / www.facebook.com/penanggolfclub Description: 18 Holes, 5,846m – Par 72

Jewel Of The North

Close To You ...

An Oasis Of Relaxation

PENANG GOLF RESORT BHD No 1687, Jalan Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas S.P.U, Penang Tel: +604-5782050 / +604-5782022 Fax: +604-5750226 E-mail: pgrb@tm.net.my Website: www.penanggolfresort.com.my Facebook: PGRB Kepala Batas Designer: Graham Marsh Description: 36 Holes, West Course 6,247m – Par 72, East Course 6,324M – Par 72

PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

PULAI SPRINGS RESORT

No. 3, Jalan Ponderosa 1, Taman Ponderosa, 81100 Johor Bahru Tel: +607-534 9999 Fax: +607-355 7400 E-mail: enquiry@ponderosagolf.com Website: www.ponderosagolf.com Description: Designed by Max Wexler; 18-holes; 6,467 meters Par-72

20km, Jalan Pontian Lama, 81110 Pulai, Johor Tel: +607-521 2121 Fax: +607-521 1818 E-mail: golf@pulaisprings.com Website: www.pulaisprings.com Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jnr & Peter Dalkeith Scott Description: 36 holes, Pulai Course 6,230m, Melana Course 6,019m

Log-on to www.pargolfmagazine.com for the 108

ParGolf MAY 2015

105-109•GCD.May15.indd 108

4/24/15 10:01 AM

The Ultimate Challenge

SAUJANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Good Views Of The Surrounding Hills

SEREMBAN INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB

A New Era In Golfing

KELAB GOLF SERI SELANGOR

Saujana Golf & Country Club, Saujana Resort Seksyen U2, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor Tel: +603-7846 1466 Fax: +603-7846 2316 E-mail: golf@saujana.com.my Website: www.saujana.com.my Facebook: www.facebook.com/saujanagolfandcountryclub Designer: Ronald Fream & Ted Parslow Description: PC 6,992 yds, BRC 7,034 yds

3 1/4 Miles Kuala Pilah Road, P.O. Box 88, 70710 Seremban Negeri Sembilan.

Tel: 06 - 677 5277/ 06 - 677 5787 Fax: 06 6772309 Email: Sigc@tm.net.my Website: www.sigc.com.my Description: 18 holes, 6,252m, par 72

Persiaran Damansara Indah, Off PersiaranTropicana Indah 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: 03-78061111/1666 Fax: 03-78061777 Email: marketing@seriselangor.com.my Website: www.seriselangor.com.my Designer: Ross Watson Description: 18 hole Championship Golf Course

Play Where The Pros Play

Still the Best Golfing Experience in Johor!

Princely Charm

SUTERA HARBOUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

TANJONG PUTERI GOLF RESORT

TASIK PUTERI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel: +60-088-243 471 Fax: +60-088-308 194 Email: golfadmin@suteraharbour.com.my Website: www.suteraharbour.com Designer: Graham Marsh Description: 27 holes, par 72, Lakes Courses 3,140m, Heritage Course 3,176m, Garden Course 3,176m

Jalan Tanjong Puteri 1, Tanjong Puteri Resort 81700 Pasir Gudang, Johor Tel: +607-271 1888 Fax: +607-271 1333 Website: www.tpgr.com Designer: Max Wexler and Akira Mamiya Description: 54 holes, Plantation Course 6,454m, Village Course 6,414m & Straits Course 6,163m

Bandar Tasik Puteri, 48000 Rawang, Selangor Tel: +603-6034 4721/4722, +6012-201 3375 Fax: +603-6034 4723 Website: www.tasikputerigolf.com Designer: Australian Golf Mgmt.

Description: 27 holes

Golf With Nature

Experience The Best Golfing

Because Life Is To Be Enjoyed!

TEMPLER PARK COUNTRY CLUB KM 21 Jalan Rawang, 48000 Selangor Tel: +603-6091 9111/9630 Fax: +603-6091 9807 E-mail: mani_sp@tpcc.com.my Website: www.tpcc.com.my Designer: Jumbo Ozaki & Kentaro Sato Description: 18 Holes 6,725 Yards

TIARA MELAKA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Jalan Gapam, Bukit Katil, P.O Box 473, 75760 Melaka Tel: +606-231 1111 Fax: +606-231 4122 E-mail: tmgcc1@gmail.com Website: www.lion.com.my Description: 27 holes, Lake Course 3,107m, Meadow Course 3,215m, Woodland Course 3,291m

TROPICANA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Jalan Kelab Tropicana, Tropicana Golf & Country Resort, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: +603-7804 8888 Fax: +603- 7804 3688 Email: gm@tropicanagolf.com Website: www.tropicanagolf.com Redesigned: E&G Parslow Description: 27-hole championship golf course

latest news and happenings in golf

Join us on

and

ParGolf MAY 2015

105-109•GCD.May15.indd 109

109

4/24/15 10:01 AM

FINAL TEE

Ping signs Canadian hotshot Conners

Maple Leaf Golf Tournament returns to Tropicana

Ping has signed on promising Canadian rookie Corey Conners, who turned professional immediately after appearing in his first Masters.

A 2014 graduate of Kent State University, the 23-year-old Conners won three times as a senior and was recently ranked No 1 in the Golfweek World Amateur Rankings. He finished runner-up in the 2014 US Amateur, which earned him an invitation to this year’s Masters.

“Corey’s recent performances have received attention, but in fact he captured our interest years ago and it has been fun to watch his steady climb in an amateur career built on consistency, which will serve him well,” said Ping chairman and CEO John A. Solheim. “We’re delighted to have Corey as part of our team and we’ll be watching the RBC Heritage with extra interest as he begins his pro career playing alongside the game’s best.”

“Competing at Augusta, then turning pro and now signing with Ping, it’s been an incredibly rewarding and memorable time for me,” Conners said. “I’m really happy to be affiliated with such a respected brand that’s known for its quality and innovation.”

The Malaysia Canada Business Council (MCBC) will be holding the 18th edition of its popular Maple Leaf Golf Tournament on May 7 at its traditional venue, Tropicana Golf & Country Resort.

A full field of 132 golfers is expected to tee off in the event, which will be graced by the presence of the Canadian High Commissioner to Malaysia, HE Judith St George.

MCBC president Roger Poulin noted that participants can expect a great day of golf with exciting goodies and prizes.

“This is one of our biggest events of the year and I’m delighted to again have leading companies such as Scotiabank, SNC Lavalin and Talisman Energy on board to help make the day unforgettable,” he said.

“It’s also incredible how many prizes we give away. Each golfer receives a lucky draw prize, there are 16 grand prizes to be raffled off, and we’ll also be raising money for charity.”

For more information, log on to www.malaysia-canada.com

12th Mission Hills Golfathon tees off More than 5,000 golfers are expected to take part in the 12th Golfathon at Mission Hills in China this year.

The unique summer-long tournament, held across Mission Hills’ multiple courses in Shenzhen-Dongguan and Haikou, will culminate in a grand final with the winner receiving tickets to watch golf’s return to the Olympics in Rio next year.

More Olympic tickets will be up for grabs in a lucky draw for Golfathon players while group winners will receive tickets to the Presidents Cup in Korea this October.

“This year, Golfathon players are swinging for the Olympics,” said the vice chairman of Mission Hills Group, Tenniel Chu. “Proceeds from this tournament will be donated to an Olympics fund supporting the golfers who will represent China in Rio.” Mission Hills Group’s involvement in the Olympic movement began when the company’s late founder, Dr David Chu, acted as strategic advisor in Beijing’s successful bid to host the 2008 Games.

110

Mission Hills is also the training base for China’s Olympic golf team.

The multi-category Golfathon was first staged in 2004 to celebrate Mission Hills being officially accredited as the world’s largest golf club by Guinness World Records. Players in the Golfathon at Shenzhen-Dongguan will compete on 10

of the resort’s 12 courses while participants at Mission Hills Haikou will play all 10 courses there.

The top 30 players in the Haikou event will join their Shenzhen and Dongguan counterparts for the Golfathon Grand Final on the Leadbetter Course at Dongguan this October 30.

ParGolf MAY 2015

110-111•Final Tee.May15.indd 110

4/24/15 9:57 AM

Weekley joins Adams Golf stable

It’s hard to believe that five years have passed since we started the ParGolf Awards. Now known as the Malaysian Golf Awards, the fifth edition was staged on April 24 with Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in attendance. Join us as we re-live the glitz and glamour of Malaysia’s biggest golf event!

Forged Performance Irons If you’re a mid- to lowhandicapper with good ball-striking capabilities, forged irons may just be your cup of tea.

Find out more and what your options are as we survey the forged market.

Jordan Spieth: In The Bag What were the weapons that Jordan Spieth wielded in his record-setting demolition of Augusta National? We take a peek into the bag of the great American hope.

©David Cannon/Getty Images

©Matt Sullivan/Getty Images

Japan’s Dunlop Sports Co Ltd, owners of the XXIO, Srixon and Cleveland brands, recently announced that their products topped the retail sales market share for the Japanese market in 2014.

According to a market survey by YANO Research Institute Ltd, the XXIO 8 range was the best-selling Hideki Matsuyama model in Japan last year across all categories – drivers, fairway woods, utility clubs and irons. Coupled with the strong performance of the new Srixon New Z series balls and the Cleveland 588 RTX wedge series in late 2014, Dunlop Sports topped the manufacturers’ list for annual retail sales in 2014.

“Dunlop Sports Co Ltd will continue to pursue its corporate philosophy of ‘enriching the sporting lives with advanced technology’ by developing a replete line-up of golfing gear to help promote enjoyment of golf among players of all levels and styles,” said Dunlop Sports president Yasushi Nojiri.

NEXT ROUND

Malaysian Golf Awards

Dunlop brands top Japan retail survey

Golf & The Environment With World Environment Day just around the corner, South African course architect Paul Jansen shares his views on sustainable golf development and how environment-friendly courses can actually enhance the natural surrounds.

©Matt Sullivan/Getty Images

NOT TO BE MISSED – PARGOLF’S JUNE 2015 ISSUE!

Three- time PGA Tour winner Boo Weekley has joined the Adams Golf roster of staff professionals and brand ambassadors.

Widely considered one of the most personable players on the PGA Tour, the 41-year-old American captured his first victory in dramatic fashion at the Heritage Classic in 2007. He successfully defended the title the following year, becoming only the third player in the tournament's 46-year history to win back to back.

Weekley was a member of the victorious 2008 American Ryder Cup team, where he won two matches and squared one to earn 2.5 points.

"Boo has been a long-time advocate of the Adams brand and we're excited to connect him and his infectious personality with golfers," said John Ward, president of Adams Golf. "Ball striking comes easy to Boo, and Adams makes equipment to help golfers hit quality shots more consistently. It's a perfect partnership."

TEE TO GRIN

Why did you get a game with high-tech engineers? Can't you see he's put some kind of computer chip in his ball?

ParGolf MAY 2015

110-111•Final Tee.May15.indd 111

111

4/24/15 9:57 AM

QUICK 18

Khor Teong Beng

Former Head Of Sales, Boehringer Ingelheim (M) Sdn Bhd, Consumer Health Care

WHO WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD HERO? Ian Rush, Liverpool’s all-time leading scorer. I admired his predatory instincts and the damage he caused in front of the opponents’ goal.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRST EVER IMPRESSION OF GOLF. Initially I thought it was not much of a challenge and purely crazy to just hit a ball, look for it and then hit again. Didn’t know the game was so addictive. After every good or bad round you just want to go back for more.

WHAT DOES GOLF MEAN TO YOU? Good mental exercise and a test of patience. Nothing beats a good social round with the buddies.

DESCRIBE YOUR CURRENT GOLF GAME. If you know the ECG’s PQRST waves, that’s exactly my type of game – up and down!

FAVOURITE GOLF COURSE PLAYED THUS FAR? The Rhodes Ranch Golf Club in Las Vegas where I have a home nearby. It’s very

challenging, scenic with the Las Vegas Strip and the desert mountains totally in view.

education. So, if you want to know any secrets or the finer tips on baking, you know who to call.

IF WE WERE TO GIVE YOU A FREE GOLF PACKAGE, WHERE WOULD YOU CHOOSE TO GO? Please give me nothing else but St Andrews. I have been there but did not have the chance to play. I just want to savour its unique atmosphere.

WHAT’S THE ONE FOOD YOU JUST CAN’T STAY AWAY FROM? I’m from Penang, so I crave for the famous Penang Hokkien Mee all the time. I can have it every morning for breakfast.

NAME YOUR DREAM FOURSOME (INCLUDING YOURSELF).

I will opt for ‘dream threesome’ instead – myself, my son Justin and Tiger Woods.

ANY SUPERSTITIONS ON THE COURSE? I can’t play without wearing a cap even though it’s night golfing.

WHAT’S THE MOST MEMORABLE THING THAT’S EVER HAPPENED WHILE OUT ON THE COURSE? I achieved a hole-in-one once without realising as it was almost dark. I thought it was a lost ball until my flight buddy holed his putt and saw there were two balls in the hole; obviously one was mine!

TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU. I used to assist my mum bake cakes and cookies to support me and my brother’s

IF YOU COULD TRADE PLACES WITH ANYONE FOR A DAY, WHO WOULD IT BE? My wife ‘cos I want to see if I could upkeep the home and cook as well as she has been doing all this while.

NAME ONE CHILDHOOD FANTASY YOU’VE ALREADY ACCOMPLISHED. To lay my hands on rifles and hand guns. I can’t do it here in Malaysia, but whenever I am in Vegas I get to enjoy outdoor target shooting with my son.

NAME 3 OF YOUR ALL-TIME FAVOURITE SONGS (INCLUDING THE NAME OF THE SINGER/BAND).

‘He Ain’t Heavy He’s My Brother’ (The Hollies), ‘Imagine’ (John Lennon) and ‘Jika Kau Bercinta Lagi’ (Alleycats).

WHAT’S THE CRAZIEST THING YOU’VE EVER DONE TO IMPRESS SOMEONE? Hold a stool with one hand and the other with a racket to challenge buddies in a singles badminton game.

IF YOU HAD ONE SUPERHERO ABILITY, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Spiderman’s abilities – I’d be able to swing everywhere I like.

HOW WOULD YOUR GOOD FRIENDS DESCRIBE YOU? Just one word – ‘helpful’.

EVER HAD A CELEBRITY CRUSH? Errrr … my wife may read the mag, you know!

112 112

ParGolf 2015 2014 ParGolfMAY JANUARY

112•Quick18.May15.indd 112

4/23/15 2:31 PM

POWER FRAME TECHNOLOGY

BORN OUT OF BORON

Distinguishes leaders from followers

NEXT GENERATION FAST TRACK

AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING OUTLETS: GOLF HOUSE / ROYAL SPORTING HOUSE: Bangsar Shopping Centre, KL Tel: 03-2092 4035 • Mid Valley Megamall, KL Tel: 03-2284 2241 • 1Utama (Old Wing), PJ Tel: 03-7726 3901 • Empire Shopping Gallery, Subang Jaya Tel: 035022 2058 • Gurney Plaza, Penang Tel: 04-228 1884 • Queensbay Mall, Penang Tel: 04-642 3552 • Sunway Carnival Mall, Seberang Jaya, Penang Tel: 04-380 8733 • Mahkota Parade, Melaka Tel: 06- 281 0452 • Plaza Pelangi, JB Tel: 07-332 4819 • Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu Tel: 088-447 801

STADIUM: Suria KLCC, KL Tel: 03-2161 7199 • Pavillion, KL Tel: 03-2141 5903 Mid Valley Megamall, KL Tel: 03-2284 6392 PRO SHOP: Tropicana GCC, PJ Tel: 03-7804 6348 • Monterez Golf & Country Club, 03-7845 1848 • Perangsang Templer Golf Club Tel: 03-6091 4317 • Cinta Sayang Pro Shop, Sungai Petani, Kedah Tel: 04-4419260 JAPAN ENGINEERED

/mizunogolfmalaysia

Rx_303_8237_ParGolf

-

1

2014-10-01T12:23:59+08:00