Sentosa Golf Club Magazine (September - October 2025)
CONGRATULATIONS IN ORDER
We’re coming up to a very busy time of the year, but we should always take some time to celebrate our
I would like to congratulate Shannon Tan on her outstanding win in the Amundi German Masters in June. She goes from strength to strength on the Ladies European Tour, and later in the magazine she will be sharing some tips about how you can knock a few shots off your next round on The Serapong and Tanjong!
Shannon will also be telling us about her experiences at the Women’s Open in Wales, while our Course Superintendent Rodney McKeown will be sharing his thoughts and findings after he visited Northern Ireland at the men’s Open Championship at Royal Portrush.
I would also like to congratulate one of our sponsored players Chen Xingtong after her amazing performance to finish runner-up in the US Girls’ Junior Championship in Atlanta in July. An extraordinary display of skill and endurance which you can read about later in the
It’s so uplifting to see the wider team becoming strong ambassadors and representatives of our Club at some of the major golfing events across the world.
Finally, big congratulations to Lady Captain Gloria Kuok and her team for their victory against the men’s team in the annual Captain vs Lady Captain team contest in August! They triumphed in our battle on The Serapong, and many thanks to all the participating players in a day enjoyable in every way – all except the result!
Happy golfing.
Warm regards,
SGC Captain Darryl Wee
Aerial view of The Tanjong from the top of The Pyramid
GM’S MESSAGE
Dear Members,
In September, we will launch our new TrackMan Range, bringing technology unlike anything else in Asia: play and practice from a grass tee-top with premium Pro V1 golf balls. This will set a new standard for training, practice, and fun.
Equally exciting, we have been informed that our lease has been extended to 2040. While details will follow once formal confirmation arrives from SLA, this is a moment for all of us to feel fortunate. It secures not only the future of the Club, but also our continued ability to invest in innovations, tournaments, and the preservation of the championship courses we are so proud of.
We’ve launched a CARE FOR YOUR COURSE program on our Telegram channel.
Golf is a game built on respect, this respect is largely related to traditions for fellow players, and most importantly, for the course itself. Every divot left unrepaired, every bunker left unraked, and every green left marked affects the experience of the players who follow. That’s why we’re putting extra focus on the basics that every golfer must do to protect and preserve the conditions we all enjoy.
Through short videos and images, we’ll highlight the simplest but most important actions that are not optional, they are mandatory. These are the responsibilities of every golfer, and they make the difference between a course that looks cared for and one that quickly deteriorates.
Thank you for doing your part, and just as importantly, thank you for making sure everyone in your group is also doing theirs. When each golfer takes responsibility, we all benefit: better lies, smoother greens, and a more enjoyable round for everyone.
The strength of Sentosa Golf Club lies not just in our investments in its conditioning or the technology we bring forward, it lies in how we, together, treat it every
day. Respect is not rented, or leased, or bought with a membership. Respect is earned, and it is paid forward in the care we show, on every hole, every round.
There are many things in golf that can’t be measured by scorecards or swing trackers. They live instead in the small choices we make: stepping carefully on the green, repairing a ball mark, raking a bunker, or filling a divot. These are not minor details. They are the heartbeat of golf etiquette, the quiet language of respect that binds every golfer together.
When these simple acts are ignored, the effect is immediate. A bunker unraked is not just sand left uneven; it’s a shot made harder for the player behind you. A ball mark left unrepaired is not just a blemish on the green; it’s a putt disrupted. A divot unfilled is not just bare soil; it’s a scar that lingers. These oversights take away from the very thing we all come here to enjoy, the playability of a world-class course.
Golf etiquette is not about rules on a wall. It is about respect for the course, for the people who care for it every day, and for the community of members and guests who follow after you. Every time you rake, repair, and replace, you send a message that says, “I care. I respect. I belong.” And in a Club like ours, that respect is not optional, it is essential. A reminder, practice balls are for the range only. Any player found using them on the course will face disciplinary action. Protecting the integrity of the game and the quality of our offering requires the same respect we expect on the course itself.
With that same spirit of respect and pride, we are thrilled about the next chapter for Sentosa Golf Club. Let’s uphold that standard. Not because we are told to, but because it is the right thing to do.
Warm regards,
Andrew Johnston General Manager / Director of Agronomy / Resident Golf Course Designer
Experience the Club’s private and idyllic location to host your next Dinner & Dance, corporate function or board meeting. For more information or to enquire, please contact sales@sentosagolf.com or call 6373 7135 (Malcolm)
GM Andrew Johnston
CONTENTS
CAPTAIN'S MESSAGE 1.
GM'S MESSAGE 3.
MEMBER NEWS
Discover all the latest from the Club including a our new Members’ Intro Night and the Captain vs Lady Captain contest! 6-11.
FIVE YEARS’ LEADING THE FIELD
We mark the fifth anniversary of Sentosa joining the UN’s Climate Action Initiative and look to the next five years of being a leader in the field of sustainability… 12-13.
OPEN AND SHUT CASE
We hear the learnings and insights from senior golf course superintendent Rodney McKeown after his visit to the Open Championship at Royal Portrush… 14-16.
GUEST COLUMN
We hear from Jack Lim at Community Chest about preparations for Singapore’s big 60th celebrations… 18.
SPONSORED PLAYERS
We hear from Chen Xingtong after a stellar performance in the US… 17.
NEWS FROM SENTOSA ISLAND
Catch up with all the latest news from around Sentosa Island… 19.
F&B NEWS
Hear about the incredible pork dish served to celebrate our National Day event… 20-21.
INSTRUCTION
How Shannon Tan conquered the German Masters, and the advice she has for The Tanjong and Serapong challenge… 22-23.
18 HOLES WITH…
Sadom Kaewkanjana, winner of the SMBC Singapore Open and 2025 Korea Open, shares memories of Sentosa… 24.
The Serapong Holes 9 and 18
GENERAL GOLF NEWS
NIEMANN HOT STREAK GOES ON
Joaquin Niemann extended his record to five LIV Golf victories in a season when he capped a dominant display with victory at the JCB Golf and Country Club in the UK.
The Chilean winner of this year’s LIV event at Sentosa continued his fine run of form by carding a 3-under 68 on Sunday to finish 17-under for the tournament in Rocester, England to add to his titles at Adelaide, Mexico City and Virginia.
Another former winner on The Serapong, Talor Gooch, enjoyed success capturing the title at LIV Golf Andalucia in July. Former Masters champion Patrick Reed took the $4m prize pot for his win at LIV Golf Dallas in June.
MOROCCO JOY FOR VINCENT
Scott Vincent took a significant step closer to regaining his place in the LIV Golf League with a four-shot victory at International Series Morocco in July. The American carded a final round 3-under 70 for a commanding victory at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam Golf Course and his first victory since IS England in 2022.
IKEMURA BIG IN JAPAN
Japan’s Tomoyo Ikemura fired a brilliant closing eightunder 64 as he claimed his third win on this year’s Japan Golf Tour with victory at the Richard Mille Charity Tournament at Noto Country Club. Compatriot Riki Kawamoto led the tournament on each of the first three days but Ikemura’s stunning bogey-free effort secured a two-shot win.
YAMASHITA MAIDEN WIN AT OPEN
Japan’s Miyu Yamashita chose a fine moment to claim her first ever LPGA Tour title when she recorded a two-shot victory at the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl, the final Major of the 2025 season. She hit a 2-under-par 70 to hold off her compatriot Minami Katsu and England’s Charley Hull in second place and become the second player from Japan to win a major tournament this season, alongside Mao Saigo, who won The Chevron Championship in April. Our very own Shannon Tan finished in a tie for 40th after a final 2-under 70.
MEMBER NEWS
WELCOMING OUR NEW MEMBERS
Sentosa Golf Club hosted its first New Members’ Intro Night for 2025 on 24 July, bringing together recently joined members for an evening of warm introductions and camaraderie.
The evening began with a welcome address by the Club President, who shared heartfelt remarks on the Club’s heritage, values, and the vibrant community that makes SGC so special.
Guests had the opportunity to mingle and connect over a delightful buffet accompanied by a generous selection of wine and whisky, rounding off the night on a relaxed and convivial note. We look forward to many more opportunities to engage with our new members and welcome them into the SGC family.
Mr Kim Yoo Jin, Mr Chua, Mr Ong Choon Chuan, Mr Lee Sang Woo with our F&B Assistant Director, Lu Ping.
Mr and Mrs Matsushima.
Greens Committee Member Mr Kazuaki Takabatake and Mr Hideki Yukimura.
Mr Richard Seow, President Andrew M Lim with General Committee Member Mr Wendell Wong and Dr Adrian Saurajen.
Lady Committee Members Mrs Lilian Lim and Mrs Gloria Kuok with new members Mr Chua Chee Kheong and Mdm Toh Chiew Hoon.
CAPTAIN VS LADY CAPTAIN: A NATIONAL DAY SHOWDOWN
The spirit of friendly competition was in full swing at Sentosa Golf Club as 32 flights teed off in a vibrant Shotgun game, with golfers proudly decked in red and white to celebrate Singapore’s National Day.
The day was more than just golf—it was a celebration of camaraderie, community, and Club tradition. The event concluded with a lively dinner featuring entertaining games, an exciting lucky draw, and a celebratory prize presentation.
In an impressive finish, the Lady Captain’s team clinched the win with a final score of 17.5 to 14.5—taking home the cup and bragging rights until the next showdown.
Captain Darryl Wee presenting the Challenge Trophy to Lady Captain Gloria Kuok
Mr & Mrs Peter Soh and Mr & Mrs Haren Shah
Mr & Mrs Robert Blalock, Mdm Samantha Lin (second from left) and Mr Jonathan Tan (right)
Mr & Mrs Park and Mr & Mrs Yoo
Mr Ricky Ang, Lady Captain Gloria Kuok, Mrs Ivy Chang and Captain Darryl Wee
Cheers to the 2025 Ladies Champion!
NATIONAL DAY AT THE PYRAMID
On the evening of 9 August, Members and their guests gathered at The Pyramid to celebrate Singapore’s 60th National Day in true Sentosa Golf Club style. Against the backdrop of a beautiful evening sky, diners enjoyed a delightful spread while anticipating one of the evening’s highlights — the Singapore flag fly-past.
The weather could not have been better, setting the stage for an atmosphere filled with laughter, joy, and camaraderie. Families and friends came together to share in the festivities, making it an evening to remember. With great company, good food, and a patriotic spirit in the air, it was the perfect way to mark this special day.
NEW
MEMBERS FOR THE MONTHS OF JUNE & JULY 25
ORDINARY MEMBER
Dr Tan Guan Lin Lincoln
Mr Bruce Matthew Lorimer Mason
Mr Henry Siah Nguang Hong
Mr Park Byung Woo
Mr Robert Lambard Garman
Mr Seow Yung Liang Richard
Mr Tan Jianchao
CORPORATE MEMBER
GTKC Capital Pte Ltd
CORPORATE NOMINEE
Mr Cheng Zen-Tak Kelvin
Mr Hideki Yukimura
Mr Jun Kobayashi
Mr Kensuke Kawana
Mr Lee Liang Whye
Mr Leung Yat Ping
Mr Ong Choon Chuan
Mr Shigetada Matsumura
Mr Takashi Tanaka
Mr Takeshi Arazeki
Mr Takuma Kobayashi
Mr Tan Mooh Chooi
Mr Tan Wei Reng Galven
Mr Yoichi Shirata
Mr Yuji Kimura
TERM MEMBER
Dr Thai Lai Pham
Mr Atsushi Yamazaki
Mr Chu Seok Don
Mr Go Onoguchi
Mr Hideyuki Mori
Mr Hitoshi Ishida
Mr Koichi Zaiki
Mr Koji Nishikiori
Mr Kojin Nakakita
Mr Luo Weiyu
Mr Masahito Kikuchi
Mr Masao Kawakami
Mr Naoyuki Inoue
Mr Roh Young Tae
Mr Shobhan Mittal
Mr Shusaku Saijo
Mr Soren Skibdal Winther
Mr Takayuki Koike
Mr Takamitsu Kagyo
Mr Tatsuya Otsubo
Mr Tetsuo Higuchi
Mr Yosuke Yamashita
Ms Heng Fong Chee Deborah
L to R: Mrs Kuroyanagi, Mrs Kimko Kan, Mrs Midori Cannon, Mr Jimmy Kan and Mrs Kobayashi
Mr Frank Yung (right) with his family
L to R: Mr Matthew Cannon, Mr and Mrs Desmond Seow and Mrs Stella Ooi
Mr and Mrs Ong Kim Pong
Mr Vernon Khoo, Chairman Bob Tan and Captain Darryl Wee
History makers, game changers
Five years on since Sentosa joined the UN’s key sustainability initiative, the drive to ensure a profound legacy of environmental awareness is as strong as ever.
When Sentosa became the world’s first golf club to join the United Nations’ Sports for Climate Action initiative in July 2020, it joined a revered group of institutions eager to set the pace when it came to improving our planet’s chances of a strong, vibrant future.
With its environmental credentials already established, Sentosa took the bold step to join the likes of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and the New York Yankees among the iconic sporting venues to be signatories to the programme.
A symbolic moment maybe, but an acceptance that The Serapong and The Tanjong courses and their pristine surroundings were an example of global best-in-practice for managing a golf course with the environment and the future front of mind.
Indeed, many examples of leadership around sustainability were already in place, but perhaps the most lasting legacy of that moment in 2020 was the attitude and spirit it created.
“It all starts with mindset,” said Andrew Johnston, General Manager of Sentosa Golf Club and the spearhead behind much of the green revolution on the Island.
“The most important change was getting
our team on board, educating them on why sustainability matters, what the global challenges are, and how we can make a difference together. Once that clicks, real change happens and it becomes easier when we are working together in something we all believe in.”
Some initiatives started at Sentosa are now standard practice the world over, such as the elimination of plastic water bottles, while others show a touching sensitivity to the glorious nature we’re lucky to enjoy.
“We didn’t set out to make changes just to be accepted on the initiative, but one of the most significant shifts was introducing stingless bees to the property. It took nearly a year of carefully planting the right vegetation to ensure their survival,” Johnston added.
“We started with four colonies, which grew to eight, and now they’ve spread across the property. I wouldn’t be surprised if we’re closing in on 40 colonies by now. Perhaps one of our best success stories.”
Sentosa’s green commitment was first brought to the world’s attention with the launch of its #KeepItGreen campaign at the Singapore Open in January 2018.
It has seen a number of key environmental features implemented at the club, such as using rechargeable lithium batteries in its golf carts, banning single use plastics
from the golf course and replacing them with water stations as well as building its own sustainable herb garden.
In January 2020, the Club unveiled a new sustainability campaign, GAME ON, at the Singapore Open, which was designed to unite the global golf community in addressing the growing concerns of climate change.
So what does the next five years hold?
“Watch this space! We’re testing innovative solar technology and using satellites not just to measure carbon sequestration, but also to monitor soil health, fertility, and potential deficiencies. The data we’re getting is game-changing.
“We’re doubling down on biochar and working on global satellite measurements of our carbon sequestration. The goal? To become truly carbon neutral without relying on offsets or credits. As we move forward, we’ll share groundbreaking developments that could set a new standard for sustainable hospitality.”
That great day five years ago was just another flag in the map of Sentosa’s sustainability journey, and the spirit of ensuring Sentosa stays in harmony with nature is as strong as ever.
A Homecoming at The Open
By Rodney Mckeown, Golf Course Superintendent
here are moments in life that remind you why you chose your path, why you dedicate your life’s work to the golf course, and why the grass beneath your feet has always meant more than just a playing surface for others. For me, that moment once again came to reality as I spent the week at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland, not far from where I grew up. To be at The Open Championship is something one must experience but when it is in your own backyard it is not just special, it is something of immense pride.
For many, attending The Open is a dream. For me, it was also a homecoming. I grew up in Northern Ireland, where golf courses are part of the landscape of everyday life, not just in their beauty, but in their culture. As a young boy, I can remember being out on the links, studying the contours of the land, in awe of the property, its resilience with nature and holding its own against the wind, and fine tuning my skills learning how such courses were cared for hundreds of years. Those early experiences shaped me, guiding me toward a life in agronomy and eventually leading me across the globe to Sentosa Golf Club.
THE MAGIC OF THE OPEN
The Open is unlike any other championship. It is steeped in history, tradition, and a reverence for the game that you can feel the moment you step onto the property. Royal Portrush itself is a place of rare beauty, rugged dunes, towering fescues, and fairways carved by nature more than by man.
To see it presented on the world stage, hosting the best golfers in the world, was nothing short of breathtaking.
But beyond the drama unfolding on the leaderboard, what struck me most was the atmosphere. Crowds moved in great waves, thousands strong, yet hushed in respect when the game demanded silence. Families with three generations in tow made their way around the course, passing down stories of Opens past. Local accents mixed with voices from every corner of the globe, united by the love of golf.
BEHIND THE ROPES: A SUPERINTENDENT’S DREAM
One of the great privileges of this trip was being welcomed behind the scenes to meet with the agronomy team and colleagues from the R&A. As superintendents, we often work quietly, long before the first tee shot and long after the last putt drops. The public rarely sees the dedication, precision, and problem-solving that goes into preparing a course at this level
Walking into the maintenance compound at Royal Portrush was like walking into the nerve center of an orchestra. Equipment lined up in perfect order, crews moving in synchrony, and every detail planned down to the minute. I was reminded of our own team at Sentosa and the countless hours we pour into preparing for events like the HSBC Women’s World Championship and LIV Golf Singapore. The difference, of course, is scale. For The Open, every blade of grass, every bunker edge, and every patch of rough carries
"What struck me most was that the challenges faced in Portrush are not so different from those we face in Singapore. The climates could not be more different, yet the principles remain the same: attention to detail, respect for the land, and teamwork. "
Rodney Mckeown
the weight of golf’s oldest major championship. It was inspiring to hear directly from the R&A agronomy team about the challenges they faced, unpredictable weather, the demand for consistency across such a vast property, and the responsibility of showcasing the course in its truest form. There was no sense of ego in their words, only humility and dedication to the game. These are people who understand that they are caretakers of history.
LESSONS CARRIED FORWARD
As I walked the fairways of Royal Portrush, sometimes in the early morning before play began, sometimes late in the evening when the crowds had gone, I felt a mix of emotions. There was joy, of course, in seeing the game played at the highest level on home soil. There was pride in witnessing Portrush embrace the world and deliver such a flawless championship. But there was also gratitude.
Gratitude for the mentors who encouraged me to pursue agronomy. Gratitude for the colleagues and peers who continue to share knowledge and push the profession forward. And gratitude for the opportunity to lead a team at Sentosa Golf Club that holds itself to the same standards of excellence I witnessed at The Open.
What struck me most was that the challenges faced in Portrush are not so different from those we face in Singapore. The climates could not be more different, yet the principles remain the same: attention to detail, respect for the land, and teamwork. Whether it is managing rainfall on the North Coast of Ireland or humidity on Sentosa Island, the essence of our work is the same, creating the best possible stage for the game of golf.
A PERSONAL REFLECTION
For me, The Open at Royal Portrush was more than just a championship. It was a reminder of where I came from and why I do what I do. To stand on those familiar shores and see the game celebrated in such a pure way was humbling. It brought me back to being a boy, staring out over linksland and dreaming of one day being part of it all.
Today, I am proud to say that dream came true, not as a player inside the ropes, but as a superintendent who understands the immense privilege and responsibility of our role. We may not hold the trophies, but in our own quiet way, we help shape the stage upon which history is written.
As I returned to Singapore and back to Sentosa Golf Club, I carried with me not just memories, but lessons. Lessons of humility, teamwork, and respect for the traditions of the game. My hope is that we, too, can continue to honor golf’s history while building its future.
The Open reminded me that golf is bigger than any one course, any one player, or any one superintendent. It is a living story, written year after year, across generations and across continents. To have had the chance to be part of that story, even for a few days, was one of the great honors of my career and my life.
And for that, I will always be grateful.
The glorious Northern Ireland links course attracted thousands of visitors
Scottie Scheffler celebrates with his first Claret Jug at Royal Portrush
Jack LIM
Building a Caring and Inclusive Singapore: A Conversation with Jack Lim, Managing Director of Community Chest
As the philanthropic arm of the National Council for Social Service (NCSS), Community Chest plays a vital role in rallying resources to empower communities in need. With all donations going directly to over 200 social service programmes, its work touched the lives of more than 82,000 people in 2023 alone.
Jack Lim, Managing Director of Community Chest, shares more about the organisation’s mission, its impact, and the importance of partnerships like Sentosa Golf Club.
“Our core purpose is to ensure every individual in Singapore who needs support can access essential social services,” says Jack. “We work as a bridge between donors and social service agencies, enabling them to run programmes ranging from special education and youth services to elder care and family support.”
Community Chest’s impact spans across groups including children with special needs, adults with disabilities, persons with mental health conditions, and seniors and families who require assistance.
Among its recent initiatives, the launch of SGSHARE stands out. Building upon the long-standing SHARE monthly giving programme, SGSHARE makes sustained giving more accessible and meaningful. Going into the year, nearly 260,000 individuals participate monthly through monthly payroll deductions. We saw that number rise to nearly 300,000 individuals with many donating via Giving.sg, and sharing personal messages alongside their contributions.
Equally significant is the Sustainable Philanthropy Framework, introduced in 2024 to help businesses align giving with their core values. More than 40 companies have already adopted the framework, benefitting from workshops, clinics, and ongoing guidance.
“The feedback has been very encouraging,” notes Jack. “It shows how businesses can do good and do well, achieving social impact and business outcomes at the same time.”
Jack emphasises that consistent contributions, no matter the size, create long-term impact. “A single $10 donation can provide a day of counselling for an adult with a disability. But regular monthly giving enables service users to overcome challenges and lead meaningful lives,” he explains. Sustained support is especially critical today, when families often face
overlapping issues such as income insecurity, caregiving responsibilities, and mental health struggles.
This year, Singapore’s 60th birthday provides a meaningful moment to give back. To commemorate the occasion, Community Chest launched SGSHARE under the SG60 banner, alongside the SG Gives Matching Grant, which amplifies the impact of every contribution.
In partnership with Sentosa Development Corporation and Sentosa Golf Club, Community Chest will host the SG60 Charity Golf event on Friday, 12 September 2025, at The Serapong. Around 200 partners and donors will come together for a day of golf, followed by an evening gala with a charity auction, lucky draw, and a special performance by service users. Importantly, 100% of proceeds will go directly to communities in need, further boosted by the matching grant.
There are many ways to contribute: individuals can sign up for SGSHARE at www.giving.sg/SG60SHARE, businesses can adopt the Sustainable Philanthropy Framework, and everyday shoppers can support Change for Charity partners. Beyond donations, volunteering time and skills also creates lasting impact.
Mr Jack Lim (bottom right) with the dedicated volunteers from NCSS, coming together in support of the community.
Meet Chen Xingtong: Rising Star of Singapore Golf
At just 16 years old, Chen Xingtong has already established herself as one of Singapore’s most exciting young golfing talents. Earlier this year, she secured her place at the prestigious 2025 HSBC Women’s World Championship by winning the National Qualifier, and more recently, she claimed an impressive runner-up finish at the 76th U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship. Her performances have not only put her firmly on the international golf map but also made her a source of pride for Singapore.
We caught up with Chen to hear more about her breakthrough summer and her unforgettable week at the U.S. Girls’ Juniors in Atlanta.
Tell us about your memories from your incredible week at the U.S. Girls in Atlanta.
It was really great! It was my first time playing in this tournament, and everyone was so nice. I loved being able to meet up with some of my friends. My favourite part outside of golf was the locker room, they had ribbon stations with rolls upon rolls of colours that many of us used to decorate our hair and bags. On the course, there were too many amazing memories to summarise, but surviving through all those matches to make it to the final day was definitely the most precious.
It looked like a gruelling, tough schedule. What was it like playing so much high-pressure golf in one week?
It was definitely a first for me, usually the longest events I play are four days, but this one stretched to six with 36 holes on the last three days, not even counting the two practice rounds. I had to be very disciplined with recovery, both mentally and physically. I’m proud that I managed to play well for so many consecutive days, it showed me that I could handle the pressure and even thrive in it.
You played strong stroke play and then excelled in match play. Did you feel your game improved as the week went on?
I definitely got more familiar with the course and how the grass reacted, but honestly, I was also getting a bit fatigued. I think what carried me through was being able to stay focused - that was key to my success in the match play rounds.
It must have been tough to lose the final after such a strong comeback. How did you feel?
If you’d told me at the start of the week that I’d make the final, I wouldn’t have believed you. Of course, I had regrets about some shots, but I was proud to extend the match to the final two holes and not give up even when I was four down. My mindset was to just enjoy the experience, and I think that helped me go further than I expected.
How proud were you to be the first Singaporean to reach the gold medal match?
Extremely proud. It feels amazing to do something that puts Singapore on the map in this event, and I’m glad I could contribute a small piece to our golfing history.
What’s next for you this year?
I’ll be playing in the Swiss Ladies Open (an LET event) in September, then the World Amateur Team Championship in Singapore this October. After that, I hope to make the SEA Games team in December.
Cocktail Hopping, Island Style
Embark on an island-wide cocktail journey featuring handcrafted drinks perfectly paired with gourmet bites and chocolates. Purchase the exclusive Sentosa Cocktail Pass to enjoy greater savings.
• Experience Asian-inspired mixology at WOOBAR featuring Korean gin and soju, perfectly matched with gourmet sliders and truffle-infused bites.
• Soak in golden hour at 1-Altitude Coast with their signature sharing margaritas, featuring premium tequila and tropical flavour combinations.
• Sol & Ora's signature cocktail combines zesty yuzu and honey with premium Beluga vodka, perfectly complementing their signature Salmon Meunière.
• Nestled in nature, Wildseed Cafe's
signature creation celebrates the sweet depth of Kyoho grapes, garnished with fresh edible flowers and botanical elements.
• Camille sets the mood for romance with a flirtatious twist on a classic gin sour perfectly matched with indulgent dishes like the A5 Hokkaido Beef & Tuna Akami Tartare.
• Unwind at +Twelve Beach Club’s beachfront setting with their signature cocktails – from butterscotch-lychee to sparkling peach azure – each paired with artisanal chocolate ganache.
Exclusive promotions are available for Mastercard holders.
Date: 1 Sep – 30 Nov 2025
Location: Participating merchants islandwide
• Journey through a mythological garden at Mirabilis Bar, from lavender-infused negronis to sage-olive gimlets, paired with delicate pesto cone canapés.
• Tipsy Unicorn pairs oceanfront vibes with refreshing cocktails – from pomegranate-calamansi coolers to coconut-lime blends – and matching fiery Asian bites such as Mala Karaage.
• Raffles Sentosa Singapore honors its heritage through expertly crafted cocktails such as elderflower-kissed vodka and spiced ginger tequila.
For more information on the event, visit: www.sentosa.com.sg/ campaigns/mastercardcocktails
WOOBAR
Sol & Ora
Mirabilis Bar
+Twelve Beach Club
1-Altitude
Caramelized Pork Belly Char Siew with Pickled Celtuce
• 1 tbsp honey, ½ tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp water
Quick Pickled Celtuce
• 1 celtuce stem (peeled, sliced/julienned)
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sugar, ½ tsp salt
• Optional: red chili slices
METHOD – CHAR SIEW
1. Marinate pork with all ingredients. Cover and chill overnight (or min. 4 hrs).
2. Roast at 170°C for 50–60 mins, flipping halfway.
3. Glaze & Caramelize: Brush glaze, roast at 220°C for 10 mins. Repeat for extra gloss.
METHOD – PICKLE CELTUCE
1. Mix all ingredients, add celtuce. Chill 30 mins–2 hrs. Drain before serving.
TO SERVE
Thick-slice or cube pork belly. Plate with chilled pickled celtuce for a refreshing balance.
Singapore’s finest does it again! So said the commentator as Shannon Tan sank a putt on the 72nd hole to secure her second Ladies European Tour victory at the German Masters in June. It was a commanding performance by our sponsored player who started the day in the lead but had to fight hard until the end to secure the victory.
Here she talks us through some of the ways she improves her game, how she manages her practice routine and schedule and imparts some invaluable advice about avoiding big numbers when you are taking on the Serapong and Tanjong courses.
Shannon spoke to use as she was competing in the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl in Wales.
Congratulations from everyone at Sentosa on your win at the German Masters. What part of your game do you think was particularly strong that week?
Thank you so much. During the German Masters week, I felt that I was striking the ball and putting well. My greens in fairway and greens in regulation stats for the first three days were good, and keeping the ball in play always helps!
What are your hopes and targets for the remainder of the year?
For the rest of the year, my aim is to build on this momentum, keep improving my consistency and be in contention. More than anything, I want to keep enjoying my golf and making progress at the same time. Of course, the eye is to finish higher up in the Order of Merit, a Top-10 and play the LPGA Q School again.
Tell us a little bit about your practice routine on a daily/weekly basis.
My routine changes between tournament weeks and training weeks. Before Germany, for instance, we spent less time on the range and focused more on short game work which was what I need to work on. During tournament week, I proritise keeping my body moving, sticking to routines, getting a feel for my shots, and visualising the shots I will need to play during competition.
How important to you is work away from the course on fitness and your mental approach?
It is very important! I started the year at a training camp and started implementing a new fitness routine. I have been going to the gym more consistently and trying to be more intentional with my training which includes strength training, mobility exercise and recovery. I also utilise the physiotherapy service on the Ladies European Tour as much as possible. The physio and hands on treatment complements my physical program which has resulted in me managing my body much better –this has in turn helped my swing and allowed me to get better.
Which do you think is the most improved part of your game this year?
My game around the green has improved this year, especially my putting, though there is still work to be done. This progress has led to more up-and-downs and better proximity on chips, which had a real impact on my scoring.
Which one of your practice routines or quick wins do you think our members would benefit from most?
I would say don’t overlook the value of a proper warm-up and stretching routine before you play or practice. Taking a few minutes to do some dynamic stretches and mobility work
helps prepare your body, reduce the risk of injury and allows you to start the round or practice session with a greater range of motion. Even simple shoulder, hip or gentle stretches can make a difference.
What one piece of advice would you share with our members to cut some shots from their round at Sentosa?
Work on course management and decision-making from tee to green, don’t always be aggressive when a safer shot will do. Sometimes aiming for the middle of the green or playing
"For the rest of the year, my aim is to build on this momentum, keep improving my consistency and be in contention. More than anything, I want to keep enjoying my golf and making progress"
Shannon Tan
SADOM KAEWKANJANA 18 Holes With…
Thai golfer Sadom Kaewkanjana, winner of the SMBC Singapore Open and 2025 Korea Open, shares memories of Sentosa, reflections on The Open, and insights into his practice, strengths, and career ambitions.
When did you first start playing golf?
I started playing golf when I was 3 years old.
Who are and were your golfing heroes?
My all time golf hero has been Tiger Woods.
Tell us about the first time you played at Sentosa.
My first time playing at Sentosa was in 2015. I was on the reserve list for the Thai team to compete in SEA Game. So I got to go and practice at Sentosa before the match. I really liked the course since then. I think it’s very beautiful and challenging.
Which is the shot you played at Sentosa which gives you the fondest memories?
It was the last putt that I made to win the SMBC Singapore Open 2022.
Tell us about your week at Royal Portrush for the 153rd Open.
It was a memorable week and one of a kind experience. This is my second time playing in The Open after 2022 at St. Andrews. Portrush is such a beautiful golf course with a unique lay out. Depending on the wind and weather, the course can be played very differently, which makes it very challenging. There was a par five where I could reach the green in two with a 2iron on the first round, but I used 3w and still have 50 yards left on the second round. It was a very fun experience and I was proud of myself that I get to play The Open this year.
Did you get to meet any of your heroes?
I got to meet many players such as Rory McIlroy, Phil Mickelson, including the World #1 Scottie Scheffler. But unfortunately Tiger didn’t come this year.
You’ve had a strong year with your win in Korea in May. What are your targets for the rest of the season?
My goal this year is to improve my world ranking as I want to try to qualify for other tours as well.
What is your practice routine and how many hours a day or week to work on your game?
I usually practice short game in the morning, both chipping and putting. Then, I will hit balls with all my clubs
(wedges to driver). In the afternoon, I usually go to the gym and train with my trainer. On the day that I play a round, I usually get a morning tee time so I can go to the gym in the afternoon. Overall, I think I practice around 6-7 hours per day.
What is the strongest part of your game, and which areas do you need to focus on most?
Putting has been my strength of the game. I think I should focus more on short game around the green.
What one piece of advice would you give our members when trying to improve their game? I want everyone to be themselves because everyone has different playing styles. I think the key to play better to play their own games, try to picture the shot you want to hit and commit to it.
Sadom Kaewkanjana, winner of the SMBC Singapore Open 2022, at Sentosa Golf Club
