An Exclusive with Lee Westwood

COVER STORY King gotmovedKing outto theparent company have charismaticbossMark beenslumped. Its ofthegolfequipment world.ed kingpin Sales year for TaylorMade adidasGolf–theundisput- 2014 willnotberemembered asbeingagood 54 the scruffofitsneckand give boost. itamighty withwhichto product grab thegameby perfect revolutionise theway peopleplay golf. isthe It thatisgoingto product with ahome-grown Singapore hasofficiallyentered the worldofgolf 50 ISSUE 171 Welcome BackTaylorMade! Singapore –AForceInGolf? EQUIPMENT FOCUS DECEMBER 2014 would dowell to forget. All told, 2014hasbeenayear that TaylorMade Golf in Texas andmoved allthestaff to Carlsbad. Adams ofitssubsidiary down theheadquarters seems to alsoshut have It lostitsdirection. grow thegameofgolf, taggedas “Hack Golf” adidas andwithhismove, the boldinitiative to flight thatgenerates more roll. Or, flipitback a for Flip theweight forward for apenetratingball back FLIPZONE adjustable weight technology. COBRA Golfhas introduced front-to- itsfirst-ever 58 FlipItAndRipIt! 10 courses withunlimited budgets,” was his sharpreply. and golfcourse designersinthe80’s and90’s whobuiltgolf one word for this–sustainable. Shameonalot ofdevelopers renovate golf courses that have falleninto neglect. “I have his response whenasked for hisopinionontheneedto The Great White SharkakaGreg Norman was scathing with irons have since recorded three wins. brand newFG Tour V4 irons outontour andthe ment. Wilson Golfdidjustthatby puttingits inamajortourna- clubs thanbeingbattle-tested There isnobetter validationfor asetofnewgolf The Tour ProvenV4Irons 64 It’s likehaving two club headsononeshaft! for your swing. distance andtrajectory the perfect used to getinyour two settingsdeliver head. Its thosehazardstowering that flight pathandcarry Wilson Rolls Out WilsonRollsOut 32 one-off Match Play challenge. one-off Cuptwo Ryder starsdidjustthatwhentheychristened thelayout witha DongguaninChina–andthe Hills ing ontheirnewcourse atMission Justin RoseandIanPoulter wantgolfers to enjoy themselves whenplay- 36 earning thegolfer/designer top honoursonaglobalscale. Is the golfcourse hedesigned It ontheMalaysian islandofLangkawi. There’s the thatErnieElsaka nodenying thefact “Big Easy” isecstaticover 32 the tone andproviding apositive outlookfor thefuture ofgolfinAsia. giving theevent thethumbsupformembers ofthegolfindustry setting The 2014Asia Pacific GolfSummitendedinSingapore onahighnote with 24 conglomeratestyle delivered Hills withtheMission World Celebrity Pro-Am. whatthepioneeringleisure andlife- it biggestandbest–thisisexactly Group to Hills do you Mission wouldWhen golfmeetsentertainment, expect 18 in golfequipment isoneofthestrongest traditions ofthegame. made golfeasier to learnandmore funto play. The advancement evolution ofgolfequipment technology isnoexception, having abounds…comfort thelistofadvances isalmostendless. The years ago. Travel issafer, terrible diseaseshave beeneliminated, Technology ingeneralhasmadelife somuchbetter thanjust50 Recreational GolfEquipment ontheRise 48 rough year andwe’ll unravel itfor andall. you, warts For mostofusinthegolfindustry, we’d ratherforget hasbeena 2014.It 44 Golf washiscommitment to teaching the gameofgolfto juniors. ics, onearea thatwasofspecialinterest to both Westwood andAsian October. theexclusive whichcovered In interview awiderangeoftop- one atthePGA Tour’s CIMBClassicwhichwasplayed inMalaysia inlate Asian Golfmetupwith Westwood holein heshotaspectacular after 40 72 7 6 Shared Thoughts From Publisher Shared Thoughts FromPublisher The “Big Easy” Aces It In Malaysia The“BigEasy”AcesItInMalaysia APGS2014RegistersHighMarks! Glitz,GlamourAndGame! Special Report From The USRGA: Exciting New Golf SpecialReportFromThe USRGA:ExcitingNewGolf TheYear InReview: What KindOfAYear Was 2014? Will2015BeWestwood’s Year To BagAMajor? Next Issue Rose AndPoulter–ThePerfectMatch SPECIAL FEATURES REGULARS Asian Golf Editorial Team you desperately wantto besuccessful playing it. love playing golfsomuchthatyou wantto makeityour career choice, and thatyouImagine decidedto become agreat golfer—a world classgolfer. You 68 Building Your GolfSuccess Vision Statement want you to passandunderstand! Lawyers have to passthe “bar” examination.Now, here’s the ‘bar’ examsI 66 BlackHatTips-Tony Meechai:BlackHatGolfTips Pro Tour GolfCollege: How toBecomeaWorld ClassGolfer:

68 66

ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SHARED THOUGHTS From The Publisher

MIKE SEBASTIAN ANGELA RAYMOND Chief Executive Officer/Managing Editor President or some years now, we have been hearing assist clubs and provide opportunities for them to [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ] about and reading reports about the chal- improve their business and adapt in a very com- lenges faced by the golf industry in most petitive sporting market.” of the developed world. Perhaps the most Meanwhile, the blood-bath continues on the re- disheartening trend concerns the United tail floor in the United States. Dick’s Sporting Goods, FStates of America where statistically speaking, one golf the largest retail outlet for golf equipment reports LAWRENCE YOUNG ALICE HO course is said to shut down for good every 48 hours. that “golf still appears to be a work in progress.” And now, this scourge has moved closer to “Everybody’s talked about that the (golf) busi- Editor (New Equipment) Marketing Executive [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ] home. Down under in Australia, worrying new ness needs to shrink in order to be more profitable research on the state of the golf industry has found and I think that’s what’s going to happen,” said that the majority of golf clubs in that country are Ed Stack, chairman and CEO of Dick’s. “I think the now in financial trouble. manufacturers are much more disciplined, the retailers are much more disciplined and I think the RAQUEL M. ARCEGA SAIFUL SUFIAN Therefore it is vital that golf business is going to be an okay business. I don’t think it’s going to be a great business but it’s Art Director & Ezine Development Art Director we lead initiatives to [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ] going to be an okay business and we’ll hit bottom here in the next quarter probably and we think assist clubs and provide that we’ll see increased profitability going into next opportunities for them to year. We think that it’s going to be a more profitable year next year.” MYRA PARAS WAYNE LWEE improve their business and Stack told Wall Street analysts, “Our (golf) inventory is in great shape. I think the inventory at the Accounts Executive Video Editor/Streaming services [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ] adapt in a very competitive vendors (manufacturers) is in better shape than it sporting market.” has been. New work by Golf Australia details that Australia MEDIA PARTNERS may be the worst hit country in the world in terms of Photographers GETTY IMAGES the golf industry, and that more than one in two golf clubs are suffering some form of financial stress. Contributing Professionals IMG ACADEMY, TONY MEECHAI, CHRIS SMEAL, DAVID MILNE & LAWRIE Golf Australia director of golf development, Cam- MONTAGUE (PRO TOUR GOLF COLLEGE), NICK RANDALL, STEVEN GIULIANO eron Wade, said: “Our research tells us that at least http://back9network.com Correspondents ROBIN BARWICK (EUROPE), RISHI NARAIN (INDIA) 50 per cent of the 1,600 golf clubs in Australia are currently under some level of financial distress. Contributing Editors TERRY ANTON, ALAN CAMPBELL, KATHERINE ROBERTS, AAERISHNA SHAHSTHY “Clubs are now facing a number of challenges where consumers are time-poor and have an increas- Printer SPECTRUM ZONE INTERNATIONAL PTE LTD ing number of other recreational pursuit options. [ Blk 1022 Tai Seng Avenue, #02-3528 Tai Seng Industrial Estate Singapore 534415 ] “Therefore it is vital that we lead initiatives to INTERNATIONAL ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Address ASIA PACIFIC GOLF GROUP (2014) PTE LTD Contact: Mike Sebastian Suite 06-06 Hong Aik Building, 22 Kallang Avenue, Singapore 339413 Email: [email protected] Tel: +65 6323 2800 Fax: +65 6323 2838 Company Registration No: 201405689G or Mobile No: +65 9152 8162

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Shame on the designers for putting us in this position today because their total disregard for sustainable practices have been the sole reason for these courses being in the shape they are in today.”

10 11 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 COVER STORY Norman Goes On The Attack!

he Great White Shark aka Greg Norman was and golf course designers of today to be responsible and to scathing with his response when asked for his build golf courses that are sustainable.” Playing conditions change and require reinvest- opinion on the need to renovate golf courses “Developers have to go back and re-invest to renovate that have fallen into neglect. “I have one word for these courses – the past has been done – we have to think of ment in sustainable solutions. For some courses, this – sustainable. Shame on a lot of developers the future.” trees and other vegetation have overgrown and crowd Tand golf course designers in the 80’s and 90’s who built golf Norman has been a very stout proponent for sustainabil- courses with unlimited budgets,” was his sharp reply. ity for the past twenty-five years which pretty much spans his fairways. For others, extreme green contours limit pin In his tongue lashing, the Australian golf legend repri- entire career as a golf course designer. manded those responsible for the sad state of affairs with According to him, many golf courses lose their unique placements, while outdated design standards render many courses in the region and said, “Shame on the design- character and their original strategic elements over time. ers for putting us in this position today because their total “Playing conditions change and require reinvestment hazards obsolete and cause safety issues.” disregard for sustainable practices have been the sole reason in sustainable solutions. For some courses, trees and other for these courses being in the shape they are in today.” vegetation have overgrown and crowd fairways. For others, and struggle to fight disease and weed pressure. They’ve become With direct reference to the excesses of the past, Norman extreme green contours limit pin placements, while outdated unsustainable with high operational costs and an inability to at- Update the course to higher design and safety standards. explained that the “unlimited budgets” of the past did not design standards render hazards obsolete and cause safety tract and maintain repeat play. In many cases these courses have Improve course conditions, playability, and pace of play. make developers and designers mindful of maintenance cost issues.” diminished prestige and reputation,” Norman pointed out. Reposition and differentiate the course in the market. which he feels has contributed immensely to the problem. He “These once successful layouts are increasingly expen- In justifying his case for renovations conducted on a sustain- Improve greens speeds, surfaces and pin locations. explained, “This has created a situation for both developers sive to maintain. They consume excess water and fertilizer able platform Norman advocates the following:

12 13 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 COVER STORY Norman Goes On The Attack!

My advice to developers is not to look at the first year of operation but look for the

Referring to the construction of new courses, Norman said, prepares to feature in the 2016 Olympics. In his role as advisory revealed that there are now 300 million middle class Chinese long haul because this can “My advice to developers is not to look at the first year of opera- coach to the Chinese National Golf Team Norman said, “These and that by 2020, this figure is expected to reach 600 million. help save a lot of money tion but look for the long haul because this can help save a lot players are a fiercely proud group and they want to represent This means 40 per cent of the population will be middle class. of money from an operational standpoint – make damn sure China, to be the first in golf to represent their nation.” said Nor- “These astonishing growth figures are fantastic news for the from an operational that the courses are sustainable!.” man. He continued, “There’s a lot of talent. It’s just a matter of golf industry, since the expanding middle class is taking to golf On the future of golf in Asia and especially in China, Nor- getting them to believe in it.” in rapidly increasing numbers, both as a leisure pursuit and as a standpoint – make damn man predicted a huge future for golf in China after casting his Sharing Norman’s optimism for the growth of golf in China sign of status,” Chu explained eyes over the next generation of talent while attending the is Tenniel Chu, vice-chairman of the Mission Hills Group, the Given such statistics, it is no surprise to learn that China has sure that the courses are star-studded Mission Hills World Celebrity Pro-Am. world’s largest golf resort. In delivering his keynote address at the world’s fastest growing golfing population – three million Norman has China’s golfing destiny on his mind as the sport the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit recently in Singapore, Chu and counting. sustainable!.”

14 15 ASIAN GOLF INNOVATION Distinguishes leaders from followers

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SHOCK WAVE SOLE PLATE

It’s tough to make a fairway wood face that reacts like a driver – the frame is too small. After years of thinning the face with new materials, we found the greater solution lie in enabling the entire head to ﬂex. The JPX850 fairway woods new Shock Wave sole contracts and expands Innovation explained in 50 seconds on impact – allowing the entire clubhead to deliver energy to the ball. JPX850.com #shocked ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE Mission Hills – Growing The Game!

When golf meets entertainment, you would expect Mission Hills Group to do it biggest and best – and this is exactly what the pioneering leisure and lifestyle con- glomerate delivered with the Mission Hills World Celeb- rity Pro-Am. By Viv Best taged at Mission Hills Haikou in his trademark triple toe loops for tee shots to the Hainan – China’s only tropical island – delight of the galleries. And Dutch soccer great from 24-26 October, the tournament Clarence Seedorf – the only player in history brought together Hollywood A-listers, to win the UEFA Champions League with three sporting superstars and some of the different clubs – demonstrated he was equally at Sgreatest players ever to swing a club for a long home on a fairway as a football pitch. weekend of golf, glamour and gala events. Towering basketball icon Yao Ming led a Oscar winners Nicole Kidman and Morgan home contingent of Chinese celebrities that Freeman, dazzling actress Jessica Alba and “Cap- included the country’s greatest film director,Feng tain America” Chris Evans showed they had golfing Xiaogang, and other mainland movie icons such skills to go with their famed acting talent. as He Ping, Chen Daoming and Wang Zhiwen. Music maestro Kenny G stepped up to the tee Joining in the fun was the cream of Asia’s enter- and displayed exactly why he is acknowledged tainment talent including Taiwanese music su- as the best golfer in show business. Here was a perstar Jay Chou, Hong Kong martial arts marvel dedicated player who once got his handicap down Donnie Yen and Korean music diva Jessica Jung. to plus-0.6 and played a Nationwide Tour event on The line-up of professional golfers was just as a sponsor’s exemption. mouthwatering, led by nine-time Major cham- Russia’s Olympic legend Evgeni Plushenko pion Gary Player, Ryder Cup heroes Justin Rose, swapped his ice skates for golf shoes and ditched Ian Poulter, and Paul McGinley, and Major

American golfing great John Daly (second left) and music superstar Kenny G (far right) capture a moment at the Red Carpet welcome for the Mission Hills World Celebrity Pro-Am golf tournament at Mission Hills Haikou on the Chinese tropical island of Hainan. Also pictured are (from left): Daly’s partner Anna Cladakis, Ladies 18 19 ASIAN GOLF European Tour golfer Danielle Montgomery, TV host Shi Linzi and acclaimed golf course architect Brian Curley. ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIALSPECIAL FEATUREFEATURE MissionMission HHillsills – GrowGrowinging The Game!

winners John Daly, Greg Norman, Darren ceeds being donated to the World Wildlife golf lesson from Norman and was coached Clarke, Ian Woosnam and Rich Beem. Fund and Yao Ming Foundation. around the course by playing partner Poul- The aim of this Mission Hills World World No.4 Suzann Pettersen spearheaded The tens of thousands of fans who ter, was equally effusive: “The theme park an elite field of female players from the flocked to Mission Hills Haikou showed their is beautiful, the golf courses are beautiful, Celebrity Pro-Am is to bring togeth- LPGA Tour and European Ladies Tour. affection for the tournament and resort and, everything here is beautiful. It’s a great In welcoming countless household judging from the celebrities’ reaction, the place to come and play golf or for a holiday,” er all the superstars and famous personali- names to Haikou, Mission Hills Group Chair- feeling was mutual. The spectacular, integrat- she told a packed press conference. man and CEO Dr. Ken Chu was typically ed 22 sq km resort left even the Hollywood Alba, accompanied by thousands of ties to promote and popularize the game forthright about his company’s ambitions. stars – accustomed as they are to luxury and camera clicks everywhere she went, added: “The aim of this Mission Hills World Ce- splendor – wide-eyed and full of praise. “This is incredible. I wish I had brought my of golf here in China. This event positions lebrity Pro-Am is to bring together all the “I’ve been to many, many places in the kids. It’s the perfect place for families. The superstars and famous personalities to world, some really awesome places in the golf course is one of the most beautiful golf China on the world map of golf and show- promote and popularize the game of golf world, but I think what you have here at courses I’ve ever seen. It was so fun today, here in China,” he said. “This event posi- Mission Hills tops it all,” said Freeman. “I’ve and then there’s the water park to experi- cases Mission Hills, and the country as a tions China on the world map of golf and never seen anything quite like it. I find it ence too. It’s just phenomenal. You guys showcases Mission Hills, and the country tremendous, and I’m very honoured to have really built something so special here.” whole, as a must-visit destination for as a whole, as a must-visit destination for have been asked to come and to have the After a practice round to get proceed- travellers, whether they are golfers or not.” opportunity to walk the links with the likes ings underway, the stars swapped their golf travellers, whether they are golfers Besides promoting golf, charity was also of Gary Player.” gear for eveningwear for a dazzling Red Car- a driving force in the tournament, with pro- Kidman, who received an exclusive pet and Opening Ceremony at Mission Hills or not.” - Dr. Ken Chu

Hollywood actress Jessica Alba and her playing Basketball great Yao Ming and partner, Major winner John Daly, are pictured his playing partner, Norwegian during the first round of the Mission Hills World golfer Suzann Pettersen, are Celebrity Pro-Am. pictured with Mission Hills Group Vice Chairman Mr Tenn- iel Chu ahead of the first round of the Mission Hills World Celebrity Pro-Am.

Dr. Ken Chu with Nicole Kidman

Ian Poulter & Nicole Kidman

Golfing legend Gary Player and Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman share a joke during a practice round ahead of the Mission Hills World Jessica Alba Celebrity Pro-Am golf tourna- 20 21 AASIANSIAN GOGOLFLF ment at Mission Hills Haikou. SPECIAL FEATURE Mission Hills – Growing The Game!

Haikou’s giant new tourist attraction, Movie tersen and the 7-foot-6 Yao laughed and Hills Haikou in March to watch our World Town. The Red Carpet extended more than joked their way around the course while Ladies Championship? We believe many – 400 metres through Movie Town’s vintage Seedorf, a newcomer to the game, was eager because they have seen golf for the first time, street settings, with the celebrities being to learn all he could from his playing partner, they have been welcomed with open arms greeted by flashing bulbs from hundreds of China’s rising golf star Wu Ashun. and they have had a fantastic first experience.” photographers and the cheers of thousands While much of the focus was on fun and Golf fans or not, spectators witnessed of excited fans lining the walkway. entertainment, China’s golfing future was also some scintillating action from world-class Kidman, bringing up the rear with Dr. much to the fore with two-time Open Cham- professionals. As the highest-ranked golfer Chu, showed the poise and class of a true pionship winner Norman coaching young in the field, 2013 US Open champion Rose professional as she stopped to shake hands female players from China’s Olympic squad was always going to take some beating and with fans and also triggered a photograph and “Mr Fitness” himself, Player – just a week so it proved as he holed a long putt on the that went around the world when she ac- before his 79th birthday – giving a gym train- final hole to be crowned the Professional cepted a cartoon cutout of herself from a ing workshop to promising young golfers. Individual champion, finishing one shot clear star-struck onlooker and playfully carried it Norman, in his role as advisory coach of Pettersen. the rest of the way. to the Chinese National Golf Team, said he In addition, Rose joined forces with The serious business of the golf got un- shared Mission Hills’ support and enthusi- film director Feng – known as theSteven derway the next day. The tournament, be- asm for the growth of the game in China. Spielberg of China – to win the Pro-Celebrity ing held for a third time, teamed the celebri- “These players are a fiercely proud group Team category while the Celebrity Individual ties with professionals for two rounds on and they want to represent China, to be the title was won by Chinese singer Sun Nan. Mission Hills Haikou’s signature Blackstone first in golf to represent their nation,” he said. Mission Hills also awarded Freeman, Player Course – and the format gave organisers “There’s a lot of talent. It’s just a matter of and Yao special “Spirit of Sport” awards for a chance to use their imagination and put getting them to believe in it. Mission Hills their all-round commitment both to the together some truly unique pairings. has long supported the development of game and to the ethos of friendship the If it seemed natural to have Freeman, young Chinese golfers and that is a great tournament promotes. who portrayed Nelson Mandela in the thing for the game of golf in China.” Hollywood veteran Freeman captured movie Invictus, playing with South African The theme of growing the game was the mood perfectly as he brought down the great Player, then it was less obvious to put emphasised by Mission Hills Group Vice curtain on the World Celebrity Pro-Am, hail- America’s sweetheart Alba with “Wild Thing” Chairman Tenniel Chu, who said: “We ing the tournament, Mission Hills Haikou and Daly, but the duo got along famously and estimate that 95 per cent of the tens of tropical Hainan as a one-of-a-kind experi- proved hugely popular with the galleries. thousands of fans here have never been to ence. Scottish golfer Carly Booth – no a golf tournament in their lives. Of course, it “I really appreciate having been invited to stranger to celebrity given that her father requires tolerance with regard to etiquette. this wonderful tournament, to this wonderful was a Commonwealth Games wrestling You accept you will not have total silence place and to spend time with you wonderful silver medalist and a minder for the Beatles when a golfer is playing a shot, you know people,” he told the media. “I am amazed by – practically swooned when told she was mobile phones will be ringing and you will the facilities here, by the people and by your partnering Hollywood heartthrob Evans but see fans in clothing less suited to a golf club country and I can’t wait to come back and recovered to give him some handy hints than a night club. spend time with you again. The resort and between shots. “But you are reaching a new audience. this island are among the most remarkable THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE! Two-time women’s Major winner Pet- How many of these fans will return to Mission things I have seen.”

BEST COURSE IN THAILAND (2nd Runner Up) TOP 3 IN ASIA: GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR: Stacey Walton WINNER: BEST DIRECTOR OF GOLF OPERATIONS: Stuart Daly WINNER: BEST GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT: Minachai Srichanya WINNER: BEST CADDIE OF THE YEAR: Kannika Namthong

Banyan Golf Club is an 18-hole championship golf course with an International all day dining restaurant, a wine cellar and traditional pub overlooking the Burmese Mountains. It’ simply a tourist attraction offering the best sunset views in Hua Hin.

www.banyanthailand.com Resort Golf +66 (0) 3253 8888, [email protected] +66 (0) 3261 6200, [email protected] Facebook.com/BanyanTheResortHuaHin Facebook.com/BanyanGolfClubHuaHin 22 23 ASIAN GOLF Twitter: @banyan_thailand Twitter: @banyan_thailand ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE 2014 APGS Wrap-Up

taged over November 14-15 at the iconic world-class Marina Bay Sands Resort Convention Centre, APGS 2014 broke away from the doom and gloom mood that hovers Sover the global golf industry and instead explored solutions to the problems faced by ;OL(ZPH7HJPÄJ.VSM:\TTP[LUKLKPU the industry in general. In his opening address, Mike Sebastian, :PUNHWVYLVUHOPNOUV[L^P[OTLTILYZVM[OL chief executive officer of Asia Pacific Golf Group, the owner and producer of APGS 2014 NVSMPUK\Z[Y`NP]PUN[OLL]LU[[OL[O\TIZ\W called on the golf industry in Asia to become more self-reliant and to strive to seek out innova- MVYZL[[PUN[OL[VULHUKWYV]PKPUNHWVZP[P]L tive ways to help grow the game of golf. “Let us take charge of our own destinies and let us not fall V\[SVVRMVY[OLM\[\YLVMNVSMPU(ZPH into the same traps that have resulted in the decline of golf in the Western hemisphere – we have a youthful population in Asia and we should seek out ingenuous ways to attract and engage with the youth of Asia to play the exciting game of golf.” His call for innovation and Asian leadership to grow the golf initiative in Asia was picked up by Tenniel Chu, vice-chairman of the giant Mission Hills Group who delivered the keynote address. In reference to adapting the game of golf to modern market demands, he said, “If you are flexible, if you think left-field and accept the world is a different place now compared to when you were young, then golf does not have to be hushed voices, rigid clothing

24 25 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE 2014 APGS Wrap-Up

A superb, highly profession- regulations and clubhouse exclusivity. No. Golf can be invigorating, collectively account for a population base of more than 1.7 You and your team have made challenging, innovative, entertaining and – above all – a lot of fun.” billion and a rapidly growing middle class, the stage is set for al Summit. Congratulations. Chu was especially bullish of China leading the thrust to grow the growth of golf in Asia. big time sacrifices and out of the game and keep it healthy in Asia. He said, “China’s booming More than 20 world class speakers addressed over 200 You keep setting that bar higher middle class – with its desire to travel, spend and enjoy new-found delegates over the two-day event. The highlight of APGS this could, should and will come leisure time – is the key factor.” There are now 300 million middle 2014 was the induction of the following luminaries into the and higher each year and then you class Chinese and by 2020 this will be 600 million, a 40 per cent of Asia Pacific Golf Hall Of Fame”: monster strides in golf development. clear it with ease. Well done. All the population will be middle class. Mr Murdaya Widyawimarta “These astonishing growth figures are fantastic news for the Tun Ahmad Sarji bin Abdul Hamid You and your team are the key to the golf industry, since the expanding middle class is taking to golf in your hard work paid off and you Thongchai Jaidee rapidly increasing numbers, both as a leisure pursuit and as a sign of machine. You did a fantastic job and delivered yet again.” status. Given such statistics, it is no surprise to learn that China has Top awards also went to Vietnam’s Mr. Le Van Kiem who won’t it be fun to watch it unfold!” – Bill Sanderson | the world’s fastest growing golfing population – three million and was honoured with the Asia Pacific Golf Personality of The counting,” Chu added emphatically. Year and the Asia Pacific Golf Philanthropist of The Year. The Golf Business Coach, Britain Combined with the growth of Southeast Asia and India, which Madame Nguyen Thi Nga was bestowed the title of the Asia – Joe Thiel | PGA Master Coach, Florida, USA MR. THONGCHAI THONGCHAI JAIDEE MR. MR. LE VAN KIEM VAN LE MR. MR. ANDY STANGENBERG ANDY MR. MR. MIKE KERR MIKE MR. MS. ANGELA RAYMOND SEBASTIAN RAYMOND ANGELA MS. TUN AHMAD SARJI BIN ABDUL HAMID ABDUL BIN SARJI AHMAD TUN MR. JOE THIEL JOE MR. MADAME NGUYEN THI NGA THI NGUYEN MADAME 26 27 ASIAN GOLF WIDYAWIMARTA MURDAYA MR. ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE 2014 APGS Wrap-Up

Asia’s Best Honoured At APGS 2014 In a historic development, the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit set out to recognize the best amongst the best in the Asian golf industry – a milestone development that serves to showcase some of the most exemplary people engaged in the business of golf in the region. A total of five new award categories were introduced this year and these include: Best Club General Manager Of The Year Best Director Of Golf Operations Of The Year Best Food & Beverage Manager Of The Year Best Golf Course Superintendent Of The Year Best Club Caddie Of The Year The award winners were recognized at the recently concluded Gala Awards Banquet of the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit held in Pacific Woman Golf Entrepreneur of The Year. Congratulations on the successful Singapore on November 14-15. Reaction from delegates to APGS 2014 were ex- “We believe that our industry is all about people and the quality of tremely complimentary. “I would like to thank you and staging of the Golf Summit. My service they offer to golfers and we feel that the time has come for us your team for organizing a very successful APGS 2014 to recognize the people behind the wonderful golf experiences that in Singapore. We enjoy the conference every year and colleagues who attended had very good we get to enjoy in Asia,” said Mike Sebastian, chief executive officer the content of the programme. The message was very of the Asia Pacific Golf Group, the owner of the Asian Golf Awards clear from the event and we have a responsibility to things to say about the quality of the pro- programme. be one of the region’s change drivers with innovation, “This is a very special new category and the Best Caddie Of The creativity and fun for our customers and future custom- gramme and the good line up of speak- Year Award which went to our girl Kannika Namthong was a totally ers,” said Stacey Walton, General Manager of the award- overwhelming experience for her. To get on an airplane for the first winning Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand. ers. I made some very good contacts too.” time in her life and fly to a venue like Marina Bay Sands Resort in Sin- One of the stalwarts of Asian golf Jim Prusa, Direc- gapore blew her away – a life-time experience for her,” said Stuart Daly, tor of Sky 72 Golf Resort in Seoul, South Korea said, – Yeo Khee Leng| President, NTUC “U” Live, Singapore director of golf operations at Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand. “You and your team were awesome! The new award The following are the individuals recognized in the respective categories were awesome and will build solid relations. categories: Keep up the great work.” The quality of the people attending Best Club General Manager Of The Year Perhaps the one comment that serves as a wrap up 1. Harald Elisson | Black Mountain Golf Club, Thailand of APGS 2014 came from PGA Master Coach Joe Theil the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit who remarked, “Many congratulations again for the 2. Han Zhishan | Mission Hills Dongguan, China successful staging of the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit. was high. I thoroughly enjoyed the con- 3. Stacey Walton | Banyan Golf Club, Thailand As I have said, what you are doing for Asian Golf would forever be remembered and the way we stay united to ference and the connection with so many Best Club Caddie Of The Year bring Asian Golf to the World is truly remarkable.” leaders of the industry.” 1. Kannika Namthong | Banyan Golf Club, Thailand All speeches, presentations and photographs of – Peter Morison 2. Abdul Najib Bin Yahya | Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club, Malaysia APGS 2014 will be progressively loaded up to its web- | Jacobsen, Australia 3. Nurhasanah | Damai Indah Golf & Country Club, Pantai Indah site at http//:www.golfconference.org Ricky Guo Jinwei Harald Elisson Best Food & Beverage Best Club Manager Kapok Course, Indonesia Manager Of The Year Of The Year Best Food & Beverage Manager Of The Year 1. Ricky Guo Jinwei | Mission Hills Haikou, China 2. John Gunn | Abu Dhabi Golf Club/Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, United Arab Emirates 3. Marten Karlsson| Black Mountain Golf Club, Thailand Best Golf Course Superintendent Of The Year 1. Minachai Srichanya | Banyan Golf Club, Thailand 2. Ali Macfadyen | The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip Golf Course, Vietnam 3. Ong Seng Kiat | Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club, Malaysia Best Director Of Golf Operations Of The Year 1. Stuart Daly | Banyan Golf Club, Thailand 2. Mohd Yusri bin Mat Isa | Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club, Malaysia 3. Harris Abdullah | Ria Bintan Golf Club, Indonesia

28 29 ASIAN GOLF

ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 ASIAN GOLF TOURISM The Els Club Teluk Datai

There’s no denying the fact that Ernie Els aka the “Big Easy” is ecstatic over the golf course he designed on the Malaysian island of Langkawi.

amed The Els Club Teluk Datai, the South African Hall- Of-Famer and four-time Major Champion described it as follows: “This is, without doubt, the most spectacular golf course setting I have had the pleasure of working on and I am incredibly excited about the prospect of inviting the first visitors to come and enjoy The Els Club Teluk Datai.” NIn the presence of Malaysian royalty, the professional golfer cum golf course architect was effusive with his praise for Malaysia’s newest golf course. “The course is truly breath-taking and I am delighted with what we have achieved here. I endeavoured to make the most of this unique location and I believe that we have done just that.” Els added, “It was an honour to hit the opening tee shot alongside Her Majesty and I would personally like to thank all of those in attendance for their support in what we are confident is set to become one of the world’s most revered golf course designs.” The Els Club Teluk Datai is his first ever-golf course creation in South East Asia and it has already bagged the title as the ‘Best Golf Course’ at the 2014 Asia-Pacific Property Awards.

32 33 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 ASIAN GOLF TOURISM The Els Club Teluk Datai

“This is one of the world’s most visually stunning golf courses, Nestled between ancient rainforest and the Andaman Sea on the iconic island location of Langkawi, the 18-holes championship course serves as a focal point for the award-win- so the early feedback we have ning Datai Langkawi resort, which is a favourite amongst international travellers. The Els Club Teluk Datai will now play an integral role in realising the vision of resort achieved and the tremendous reac- owners Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd (DRH) in developing golf and bespoke tourism experiences in Malaysia. tion we have experienced is really no Charged with developing strategic tourism, DRH selected The Els Club Brand for three Malaysian golf developments, two of which are currently under construction in the south- surprise …. over the coming months ernmost state of Johor and will transform the nation’s golf offering over the coming years. Commenting on the new golf course, Tunku Dato’ Ahmad Burhanuddin, managing di- we expect to welcome golfers from rector of Destination Resorts & Hotels, the owner of the property said, “Given golf’s position- ing on a global stage and the demographic it attracts we have sought to redefine standards all over the world, who are eager to in the region’s golf offering. The Els Club Teluk Datai will certainly become a flagship asset for our business and give enjoyment for many more generations to come.” test themselves against Ernie’s mas- Senior Vice President of The Els Club Malaysia, David Townend, spoke of his excitement for the club and said, “This is one of the world’s most visually stunning golf courses, so the terpiece and take advantage of the early feedback we have achieved and the tremendous reaction we have experienced is really no surprise …. over the coming months we expect to welcome golfers from all over the incredible experience that can be world, who are eager to test themselves against Ernie’s masterpiece and take advantage of the incredible experience that can be had as a tourist in Langkawi.” had as a tourist in Langkawi.” – Ernie Els The course is managed and operated by Troon Golf, the global leader in upscale golf management, who oversee operations at some of world’s pre-eminent golf resorts.

34 35 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE Mission Hills – Match Play

he showdown Justin Rose between two of golf’s great mates on 28 Oc- and Ian Poulter tober was more about banter than bunker shots Tas they traded quips, compliments and want golfers to good-natured barbs to the delight of thousands of fans who followed their progress. enjoy themselves The mickey-taking started in earnest the day before when the duo looked around the luxury when playing on their apartment at Mission Hills that would be awarded to the winner. In a video that has proved a YouTube hit, the scenes included one of them new course at Mission surveying their handiwork from the balcony and arguing whether it was the Rose-Poulter Course or vice versa. Hills Dongguan in The Match Play saw the pair play the first nine holes with Mission Hills’ best junior players and members before China – and the two Ryder going head-to-head on the back nine. Rose – fresh from his victory two days earlier in the Mission Hills World Ce- lebrity Pro-Am at Mission Hills Haikou on the tropical island Cup stars did just that when of Hainan – showed he was the form player by winning the first three holes. Poulter pulled a shot back on 15 but the next hole proved they christened the layout pivotal – and one neither player is likely to let the other forget. Surveying the short par-four 16th, Poulter stood on the tee and debated trying to carry the ditch 280 yards away guarding the green. with a one-off Match Play Egged on by Rose – “You didn’t come all the way to China to lay up, did you?” – he went for it, came to grief and had to take a drop. A challenge. By Viv Best wounded Poulter complained to the TV cameras, “He’s supposed to

36 37 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Mission Hills – Match Play It’s all about risk and reward. There are five par- fives and five par- threes, you’re taking Golfers shots on, so it’s not easy but it’s great fun. Everyone who plays it is going to have a great time – they will radise make lots of birdies Pa and they might make a few bogeys, but the course plays very well.” – Ian Poulter

be my mate!” as his friend calmly birdied gets a bit more tricky around the greens. China. The duo, who designed the layout for a 3-and-2 success, although they still A lot of the great courses, like Augusta in conjunction with renowned golf course played the final two holes to get a complete National for example, are generous off the architect Brian Curley, join a Who’s Who of overview of their new layout. tee but then the skill is in the second shot, golfing greats with course designs at the Both agreed that while Rose had the chipping and the putting, and I feel that complex including Jack Nicklaus, Sir Nick emerged victorious, the par-72 course is what this golf course is about.” Faldo, Greg Norman, Ernie Els and José Come and Discover Whathd Playing Golf in Paradise Really Feels Like – sculpted to be especially suited to Poulter added: “It’s all about risk and María Olazábal. match play golf – was the real winner. “It’s reward. There are five par-fives and five “I would like to congratulate Justin and Long Thanh Golf Resort is a true paradise for populated by a wide array of flora and fauna. designed to give you a lot of options,” said par-threes, you’re taking shots on, so it’s not Ian on a fabulous match and to thank all our any golfer. Rose, the 2013 US Open champion. “You can easy but it’s great fun. Everyone who plays members and juniors who took part,” said Golfing in Long Thanh Golf Resort is an experience run the ball into the greens, you can work it is going to have a great time – they will Mission Hills Group Vice Chairman Tenniel the contours, but if you miss the contours make lots of birdies and they might make a Chu. “Not only was it wonderful to watch Two world-class golf courses – one that traverses of world-class golf combined with a unique brand of and end up on the side, then you have a few bogeys, but the course plays very well.” two such great players in action, but to see hilly terrain while the other meanders through service and the warmth and friendliness of Vietnam. difficult recovery shot. The Rose-Poulter Course is one of 12 at them working with our juniors, encouraging spectacular lakes. “We want players of all abilities to have the giant Mission Hills resort – officially the them and sharing their experience, means All this delivered in a tranquil setting located in a good time, to get off the tee and feel like world’s biggest golf club – spread across so much to these promising young players Both the Hill Course and the Lake Course are the southern economic triangle and just 40 minutes they have a chance, but then the course Shenzhen and Dongguan in southern and the people of China.” fascinating showcases of breath-taking landscapes from Ho Chi Minh City’s centre.

Long Thanh Golf Resort -A Golf Paradise Like No Other!

www.longthanhgolfresort.com

1438 1539 ASIAN GOLF National Highway 51, Tan Mai 2 Hamlet, Phuoc Tan Village, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam Tel: +84 61 3 512 512 Fax: +84 61 3 512 513 ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE An Exclusive With Lee Westwood

YEAR TO BAG A MAJOR?

Most people would be both- ered when they are repeat- edly asked a question that they are tired of hearing but this was not the case with top English golf professional Lee Westwood. >OLUHZRLKPMOLL_WLJ[Z[VÄUHSS`^PU a golf major, he calmly and politely re- sponded by declaring that he hoped that his name will be called out soon. The way he handled the question demonstrated that Westwood is a pucka gentleman and a real credit to the game of golf.

sian Golf met up with Westwood after he shot a spectacular hole in one at the PGA Tour’s CIMB Classic which was played in Malaysia in late October. From 226 yards out, Westwood whipped out a hybrid club and saw his perfectly-struck tee shot land 10 feet from the pin and roll inexorably into the hole. “Well that was a pretty special day,” he later Aposted on Twitter. “It’s not often you see them go in from 226 yards!” If he keeps up this form, you can bet on Westwood making the grade for a major in 2015! In the exclusive interview which covered a wide range of topics, one area that was of special interest to both Westwood and Asian Golf was his commitment to teaching the game of golf to juniors. He is widely regarded as operating one of the

40 41 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE An Exclusive With Lee Westwood

My goals have been the same throughout my career. Simply, I just want to do the best I can every time I push a tee peg in the ground. I am still motivated, keen and hungry to win.” – Lee Westwood

leading private golf academies in the world. “Students attend our victory. Do you feel that this is set to change? the most challenging. We have heard all the reasons for golfing college on a full-time basis and work within a structured, the slowdown in the growth of the game. Give us your WESTWOOD: Who knows, but it won’t be for the lack of trying. All continually assessed golf and education programme utilising the perspective on what is causing this global malaise in I can do is what I’ve been doing, put myself in position and hope that latest training methods and techniques,” Westwood explained. golf? “With guidance and assistance from our qualified PGA coaches my name will be called out soon. WESTWOOD: If there is a slowdown then I am sure it is only tem- and educational tutors, the students are able to obtain a high qual- AG: As a man who has been at the very pinnacle of the porary. I am convinced that the Olympic Games will provide a surge ity education whilst developing their golfing skills and abilities,” he professional game, give us your assessment of the “new of interest in the game that will only prove a benefit. added breed” of players playing on the professional tour - The following are excerpts of parts of the interview Asian Golf especially the European Tour and the PGA Tour? AG: Do you feel that the game has to go through a radical had with Westwood: change to be made more relevant to a multi-generational WESTWOOD: The popularity of the game is growing all the time ^VYSK[VKH`[OH[ZLLRZPUZ[HU[NYH[PÄJH[PVU& Asian Golf: How has the move to Florida shaped up? and in many different places and it will only increase more and more Do you feel that you are past the adjustment period and after golf has been in the Olympics in 2016. The newcomers all seem WESTWOOD: Not sure it needs a radical change, but it could ready to make your presence felt on the PGA Tour? to be getting younger so the competition is only going to get fiercer. do with a makeover. Something has to be done about slow play because fining players doesn’t work. Docking shots will. The public LEE WESTWOOD: Hindsight’s the thing. If I’d had it, I would The common theme among the newcomers is how dedicated they have also shown just how much they like match play golf so I can probably have made the move to Florida earlier. It’s been every- are to improving. see more moves in that direction, thing and more the entire family hoped for and we are all fully AG: The depth in the talent pool seems to be the best that adjusted. The kids even went trick and treating last week. On a the game has seen in a long time and this is evidenced AG: Is enough being done to bring in new players personal level, all I can do is prepare the best I can and see where it by the number of new and young players winning virtually especially juniors to the game? gets me. every weekend. With this as background, do you see any WESTWOOD: I think so especially since the advent of academies AG: Just curious - what is it that prompted your move to one player dominating the professional ranks the way and golf schools. They are the future so we have to invest in them. North America? ;PNLY>VVKZ\ZLK[VKVTPUH[L&(UK^OVKV`V\[OPURÄ[Z that bill? AG: In this regard, give us an update on your effort to help WESTWOOD: There were several factors, but from a professional juniors - how is your academy performing? standpoint I just needed to be able to practice in winter without WESTWOOD: I’m not sure we will ever see another Tiger although WESTWOOD: Things are developing very nicely indeed and having to put on seven layers of clothing. The improvement in my Rory McIlroy is getting closer and closer to dominating the way he we are all delighted at the response we have had so hopefully it’s short game has been considerable did. You just never know in golf although I believe we are heading towards an era where more and more players will be challenging for onward and upward. AG: You belong to an elite group of professional golfers the game’s top honours on a regular basis. AG: You enjoy an excellent reputation in Asia, especially who have played all over the world and you have in Southeast Asia - do you have plans to expand your experienced victory all over the world. This must come as AG: Speaking of Tiger, given his extended lay-off and academy to this neck of the woods? a sense of great accomplishment to you. his numerous physiological challenges, do you see him coming back to regain his reign as the world’s number one WESTWOOD: The smaller the world has become through the WESTWOOD: Watch this space. There may be an opportunity to player? comparative ease of travel is heading golf towards a global tour extend what we are already doing. WESTWOOD: That’s almost impossible to answer because only anyway. The PGA Tour has followed the European Tour in having AG: Finally, what can we expect from Lee Westwood in time will tell. Let’s just say it wouldn’t be a surprise if Tiger did get tournaments outside its own boundaries so many more Americans 2015? What have you set as your personal goals for the back to No.1. are discovering there is more to the world than just 50 States. I’ve New Year especially in competitive golf? enjoyed everywhere I’ve been and particularly Asia so I’m delighted AG: Shifting gears, let’s look at the general health of the WESTWOOD: My goals have been the same throughout my I’ve been able to win in many different places. game. While the professional game is healthy, the same career. Simply, I just want to do the best I can every time I push a can’t be said for the club game. Golf is challenged and AG: You have always been referred to as one of the tee peg in the ground. I am still motivated, keen and hungry to win. this year, more than any other year, seems to be one of world’s best golfers without a major championship Hopefully there is plenty more of Lee Westwood to come.

42 43 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE The Industry Appraised!

Without access to reliable intelligence sources and market research, no one quite knows what is the true state of affairs of golf in Asia. But we will stick our neck out and declare that it has not been too good a year for golf in Asia.”

In an address to shareholders, its chief executive officerHerbert Hainer said, “TaylorMade-adidas Golf has clearly been our weakest performer, sales declining 29% on a currency-neutral basis and operating profit deviating by around 150 million euros compared to the prior year level.” Nine-month sales in 2014 stood at 673 million euros, down 31.4% (308 million euros) from a year ago when it boasted 981 million. Given the third quarter sales level of 138 million euros, it’s highly unlikely TMaG will surpass 800 million euros for its 2014 fiscal year. The fourth quarter is historically the lowest for equipment sales in golf, except a It really depends where this question is posed and who clubs, equipment manufacturers and related year ago when TMaG managed to see 304 million down-stream industries, is there really hope euros in sales volume, thanks to the inclusion of it is directed at. Well, the preceding sentence in itself for golf to regain its glory moments of days JetSpeed and SLDR drivers. gone past? Your guess is as good as mine but However, Hainer is confident of a dramatic sounds like a cop out because it seems to come loaded if you are a betting man, you would do well swing back to the black when he declared, “I am with pre-qualifications. To hell with all the innuendoes – to place your wager on things getter worse confident we will stabilize and grow sales and mar- before there is a turn-around. gins in 2015, returning the segment to profitable let’s get right down to brass tacks! By Mike Sebastian There will inevitably be a swing towards levels.” better times but that’s not going to happen The feedback from other manufacturers is or most of us in the golf indus- number of new players coming to the game any day soon. There’s still a lot of blood- pretty much a variance of what Hainer has reported

try, we’d rather forget 2014. It and a general trend which shows rounds letting that has to take place before we can but the cold hard facts point towards the major- KING MARK has been a rough year and we’ll played to be trending southwards. In a start seeing the silver linings. For example, ity of the companies facing a tough trading year unravel it for you, warts and all. capsule, a bitter one at that, the industry is as this commentary is being written, news because of the soft state of the market. Let’s start with the overall state not healthy and is not really showing strong has just come in that the self-proclaimed How about the bold initiatives to grow the Fof the business. In the developed world, signs of any sustainable recovery. leader in the golf equipment industry, game of golf? Well, what about it you may ask? golf is on the decline and this is evidenced Against this backdrop of spreading red TaylorMade adidas Golf has had a miserable There’s been quite a bit of spin-doctoring on this by the closure of golf courses, a drop in the ink on profit and loss statements of golf third quarter. matter but there have been virtually no concrete HERBERT HAINER HERBERT

44 45 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE The Industry Appraised!

Scenes of demolition work in progress in China.

facts and figures forthcoming to substanti- So much for growing the game of golf! From what we know and what we have ate all of the efforts taken by the powers There are on-going efforts but nothing signifi- reported on during the course of this year, that be. cant enough to generate the numbers to start there is sporadic growth in pockets in Asia. One such effort to grow the game was the cash registers singing the profit song! Numbers are still down in Japan, golf’s big- spear-headed by the charismatic Mark Speaking about power-mongers being gest market in Asia. King, the ex-President and CEO of Taylor- moved or fired,Peter Dawson, the man The once frenetic growth of golf in golf- Made adidas Golf. At the last PGA Merchan- who has become an institution at the Royal crazy South Korea has reportedly tanked dise Show, King announced an ambitious & Ancient (R&A) has announced his retire- and coupled with the slowing Korean undertaking designed to give golf a much ment. A new man has already been hired economy, at best, the state of the game will needed shot-in-the-arm. Together with Ted and let’s see if he has the courage and the remain in a holding pattern. Bishop of the PGA of America, he spring- vision to change the stuffy image of the China, because of the Central Govern- boarded “Hack Golf” to help unearth some R&A and make it more relevant to the rap- ment’s tough measures against corruption out-of-the-box ideas from the public at idly changing times in which we live in! and the blatant flaunting of wealth, legally large. He even committed US$5 million dol- Another guy who is stepping down is or illegally acquired, is having a negative lars of TaylorMade’s cash to get the project George O’Grady, the CEO of the European effect on golf clubs. Despondent golf course rolling. Sadly, before we could see some Tour. While O’Grady achieved a lot during architects stand by helplessly as contracts serious traction, King got kicked upstairs to his tour of duty, golf historians are already dry up for new courses and some are even head up adidas North America while Bishop abuzz about his replacement needing witnessing the actual physical destruction got booted out from his job for making to succeed where O’Grady failed. These of their masterpieces by demolition squads some innocuous sexist comment. pundits want the new CEO to find a way to acting on the command of the Chinese get Europe’s biggest stars to play more in its government. traditional heartlands of Continental Europe Without access to reliable intelligence and the United Kingdom. sources and market research, no one quite He is being faulted for singularly failing knows what is the true state of affairs of golf to provide more big money tournaments in in Asia. But we will stick our neck out and Europe and the United Kingdom. Most of Eu- declare that it has not been too good a year rope’s top stars now call the PGA Tour home, for golf in Asia. and make only occasional forays home to Without solid, reliable data on the fulfil the requirements of membership. market, it looks like we are all set to fly by Looks like golf is a thankless game! the seat of our pants for another year in What about Asia? Again, what about 2015. Reckon we just have to stick our index it? Western experts claim that golf is in a fingers in the air to get a reading of what growth mode in Asia and what they base the business mood is like going forward. this assumption upon, baffles me. Perhaps For golfers, continue to enjoy the game they know something about the growth because after all, golf is a wonderful game of golf that we in Asia are totally oblivious and deserves better! Here’s to a Happy New about. Damn “experts” – these guys are no Year and happy golfing! And let’s all hope better than street-side soothsayers! for an improved 2015!

46 47 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE The Case For Non-Conforming Equipment

bination the Polara Ultimate Straight golf ball The real opportunities for significant advances in and driver of 12 degrees loft or higher, will reduce a slice by up to 80% - this cures even the state of golf equipment technology will occur EXCITING NEW GOLF RECREATIONAL the worst slice problem. once golf companies remove the artificial restraints Stop the ball on the green - Make the grooves more aggressive on wedges; they have accepted for themselves and they start to even more aggressive that they were when GOLF EQUIPMENT ON THE RISE the USGA reduced what was allowable in allocate meaningful amounts of money to the research 2009. Today wedges with super aggres- and development of new equipment designs, materi- If you do not agree that the primary objective of recreational golf is to sive grooves can be easily ordered from a number of golf companies on the internet. als and technology that will enable recreational golfers have fun, then you probably don’t need to read any further. If you combine more aggressive wedge grooves with a special high spin ball made to hit the ball farther, hit the ball straighter, stop the that in general can be made with a hard ball on the green and sink more puts.” Technology in general has made life so much better than just 50 years core and super soft cover, then most golfers ago. Travel is safer, terrible diseases have been eliminated, comfort will be able to stop or at least check the ball up on the green. Why limit yourself to the golfer to have more control over the im- technology will occur once golf companies abounds… the list of advances is almost endless. The evolution of golf only playing one model ball for the entire pact and direction and distance of ball travel. remove the artificial restraints they have round of golf? You wouldn’t limit yourself Most of the equipment technology accepted for themselves and they start to equipment technology is no exception, having made golf easier to to playing just 1 club for the entire round, changes suggested previously could be allocate meaningful amounts of money learn and more fun to play. The advancement in golf equipment is one would you? It would not only immediately accomplished immediately. They involve to the research and development of new help golfers if they used a different ball for known technologies, many of which were equipment designs, materials and technol- of the strongest traditions of the game. wedge shots, but also for drives, long iron commercially available before the USGA ogy that will enable recreational golfers to shots and for putting. decided to label them nonconforming and hit the ball farther, hit the ball straighter, he first rules to govern the perfor- Where are the great innovations and ball straighter, stop the ball on the green Sink more putts - Allow anchoring of all of these technologies are permitted by stop the ball on the green and sink more mance of golf equipment were in- leaps in golf equipment performance and sink more puts. If the golf companies long putters and make the face of the putter the United States Recreational Golf Associa- puts. When this happens, it will take 2 years troduced 105 years ago, relatively happening today? If you are talking about ignored the USGA & R&A performance limit- softer than allowed by the rules – both of tion (USRGA.org). at most before golfers see refreshingly new recently for a sport that is more equipment that conforms to the USGA and ing rules, and made physics the only limita- these changes shift the stroke from eccentric The real opportunities for significant and demonstrably superior products that than 500 years old. The USGA and R&A rules, step change improvements that tion - golfers would score lower, play faster, to concentric muscle action and thus enable advances in the state of golf equipment will make golf less intimidating, more invit- R&AT work to limit the advancement of golf would benefit the recreational golfer are save money and have more fun. Exactly ing, easier to learn, more fun to play and as technology for good reason – the governing not possible within the current rules. In what needs to be done is as follows: a result the health and vitality of the golf bodies of serious competitive golf want the fact rules changes in the last 20 years have Hit the ball farther - Increase the driver industry will improve again. skills of the golfer rather than the technology been working against helping the recre- size, moment of inertia (MOI) and coef- of the golf equipment to be the determin- ational golfer. Take for instance the recent ficient of restitution (COR). Make both the ing factor in identifying the champion in decision by the ruling bodies of golf to ban club head and shaft more aerodynamic serious competitive events like the Open or the practice of anchoring a club. Appar- (less drag). Increase the golf ball’s COR and the Masters. This strategy makes sense for ently long putter anchoring was providing a weight, while maintaining or lowering its serious competitive golf, but is detrimental performance advantage over the traditional spin. Decrease the ball’s drag by making the to recreational golf. There is absolutely no putter stroke, so they ruled out anchoring ball smaller and more aerodynamically effi- reason to limit the contributions equipment starting Jan 1, 2016. Starting Jan 1, 2010 cient. There are drivers available today that technology can make to the scoring perfor- the USGA & R&A scaled back the ball spin exceed the USGA/R&A limitation, especially mance of the recreational golfer. inducing performance of irons by regulat- when it comes to size, COR and MOI, but The advances in golf equipment technol- ing the dimensions of the grooves on the none are made by the major golf manufac- ogy have even made golf increasingly more face of irons with 24 degrees or more loft. turers: Bang Golf’s Big Bang 525cc, Polara affordable over the years. A golf ball once Technology that enabled slices and hooks Golf’s Advantage, and Diamond Golf’s DTG cost about a day’s wage for the average per- to be corrected by about 30% was outlawed Felon are just three of many that are now son. Now the best golf balls costs less than in 1981. The overall distance that a golf ball available through internet stores. You can half the minimum hourly wage in the USA. can achieve under certain conditions of even increase the COR of your current driv- The drivers and irons of today use exotic spin, launch angle and velocity was limited er by sending it to away to company like metals, high tech construction methods and by the governing bodies in 1976. Today, the World’s Hottest Drivers, which performs a deliver far superior distance and control that USGA and R&A are seriously considering processes on your driver’s face called “driver few imagined 30 years ago. In the past most implementing further distance performance shaving”, which reduces the face thickness whom wanted golf instruction sought out restrictions on golf balls. Don’t look for the on drivers to create a higher COR. an accomplished golfer or PGA professional. USGA to ever relax the rules for recreational Hit the ball Straighter - Adjustable Now internet site likes Youtube are full of golfers – this is not part of their mission. drivers can help a fade or draw problem, well-prepared video lessons. Some incorpo- USGA or not, golf companies could but the least expensive and most effective rate smart phone apps that help the average immediately make golf more enjoyable technology solution to correct both hooks golfer measure and quantify their swing for the recreational golfer if they simply and slices is to make the golf ball’s dimple performance in a way that was never before revived known technology from the past. pattern asymmetrical, creating a ball with a possible and now enable golfers to improve Recreational golfers could easily lower their principle axis of inertia. This technology has their game quite substantially while practic- score by 5-20 strokes per game if they took been advanced, patented and made avail- ing in their living room or back yard, without full advantage of the technology available to recreational golfers with Polara Golf’s the help of a professional instructor. able today to hit the ball farther, hit the Ultimate Straight and XD golf balls. The com-

48 49 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 EQUIPMENT FOCUS Rapsodo Personal Launch Monitor

eck, when we found out book and weighs less than two pounds. But pin, longest drive and targets, along with where this technology origi- let not its size fool you! It is designed to accu- shot history tables, performance by club, nated from, we nearly fell off rately capture thousands of data points from and helpful data screens,” according to a our chairs! We won’t keep you a golfer hitting balls with his own clubs into a company spokesman. in suspense any longer be- net at home to simulate practice and play as It’s easy to use, compact, totally portable Hcause the news that we are about to unravel if he were on the course or practice range. with no wires required, and highly accurate, is too good to be kept under wraps! It must also be made clear that while so improvements the golfer sees in his swing Singapore has officially entered the entertaining, it is not a toy, but a serious at home or in his office are improvements he world of golf with a home-grown prod- tool that accurately reflects a golfer’s actual can take to the course. uct that is going to revolutionise the way skill level and shot results to provide year- “Our goal with the Personal Launch people play golf. The product has come onto round practice, play and game improve- Monitor is to deliver commercial quality ball the market at the right time when golf is ment without ever leaving home. flight simulations that reflect a golfer’s actual experiencing a general decline especially as Combined with an App and iPad, the performance for game improvement and en- it relates to new players coming aboard and Wi-Fi enabled system captures the follow- tertainment at a very affordable price – the the number of rounds played. It is the perfect ing vital information: lowest possible to comparable alternatives,” product with which to grab the game by the said Batuhan Okur, chief executive officer of Actual ball speed scruff of its neck and give it a mighty boost. Rapsodo. Meet the Rapsodo Personal Launch Launch angle “In essence, we have created a way for a Monitor, a cutting edge golf simulator Back spin golfer to take his or her passion past the 18th conceived, engineered and produced in Side spin green with what we see as the X-BOX of Golf,” Singapore. It uses a high speed photometric Okur pointed out. It’s been designed to de- Side angle platform, and it can measure the launch of liver the reliability and accuracy required to a golf ball with an astonishing degree of It then packs all of this data to trans- help golfers play better, play more and derive accuracy and precision comparable to any late the ball flight over a vivid 3D practice more enjoyment from the game. device on the market. range. “It also offers various challenges for Rapsodo was founded in Singapore in 2010 So, what’s the big deal if it is only engaging practice such as closest to the by an experienced team of entrepreneurs. comparable? We saw that coming and get a load of this – the product is delivered to the Our goal with the Personal Launch end-user at a fraction of the price that the es- tablished big name brands charge for similar Monitor is to deliver commercial quality features and basically the same performance. It is the classic David versus Goliath fable ball flight simulations that reflect a golfer’s re-told to a new script written in Singapore. With the Rapsodo Personal Launch Monitor, actual performance for game improvement a golfer can work on his or her game all year round right in the living room. That’s how and entertainment at a very affordable price versatile this new gismo is and it’s the sort of device that no golfer can be without! – the lowest possible to comparable The Personal Launch Monitor is truly revolutionary. It is a complete practice, play alternatives.” – Batuhan Okur and entertainment system for golf at home. The device is only about the size of a

We knew that we’d get your attention with the headline. It’s intended to be an eye-ball grabber because what we are about to reveal is stunningg news – it is news that will rock both the golf world and the world of technology!

50 51 ASIAN GOLF LONG THANH GOLF RESORT, HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM DECEMBER 6 & 7, 2014

Come and be part of the region’s first ever total family golf event ... The Inaugural Asia Pacific Father and Son Golf Tournament! Entry fee is set at US$450 per player and this will include: In Celebration Of Daily two-way transfer from the Sheraton Hotel to the golf course. Lunch, refreshment and dinner on both days. Prizes and goodie bags. Fathers And Sons One practice round on December 5. The Father and Sons Tournament is designed to promote greater family involvement in golf and clubs The inaugural Asia Pacific Father and Son The tournament is open to any combination are encouraged to enter club teams to participate in that promises to become an annual tournament. Golf Tournament is on the cards. Fathers and of family members – father and daughter, sons or direct related members of a family uncle/aunty and nephew and niece. This ONLINE Registration is open at: Organised by: Long Thanh Golf Resort will do battle to see who emerges as the best arrangement provides for a wider family http://tinyurl.com/fsgt2014 of the best in the region. involvement and participation.

This prestigious tournament will be staged on The winning team will walk away with the DOWNLOAD PDF – RULES & REGULATIONS: December 6 and 7, 2014 and the host venue Asia Paciﬁc Father and Son Trophy presented http://tinyurl.com/fsgt-rr2014 is the award winning Long Thanh Golf Resort by Vietnamese philanthropist Le Van Kiem. in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. For enquiries, please contact Alice Ho at [email protected] or call +65-63232800 ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 EQUIPMENT FOCUS TaylorMade RSi Family

owever, TaylorMade is not the sort of 2014 will not be remembered as being a company that will lie down and sob over good year for TaylorMade adidas Golf – the its misfortunes. No way! Its pedigree has been weaned on a fighting spirit to win undisputed kingpin of the golf equipment and never give up. Its DNA is hard-wired toH spring right back up and get right into the thick of world. Sales have been slumped. Its charis- the action! And that’s exactly what the company has matic boss Mark King got moved out to the done with the launch of three hot sets of irons. Things have been relatively quiet at TaylorMade parent company adidas and with his move, adidas Golf for most of 2014. After a short self-imposed period of exile in golf’s wilderness, the company that the bold initiative to grow the game of golf, Mark King built has come roaring back with a vigor and tagged as “Hack Golf” lost its direction. It vitality that holds a lot of promise for things to come. With the year coming to an end, the company has also shut down the headquarters of its sub- hit the road running with the launch of a brand new family of irons branded as the RSi. Not content with just sidiary Adams Golf in Texas and moved all one set of irons, TaylorMade has swamped the market the staff to Carlsbad. All told, 2014 has been with three models under the RSi brand – the RSi1, the RSi 2 and the RSi TP. And one trademark feature that all a year that TaylorMade would do well to of the irons in the family share is a “slot”. forget. Remember some two years back when TaylorMade

54 55 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 EQUIPMENT FOCUS TaylorMade RSi Family generating startling ball speeds. The irons are also very forgiving and this is largely attributable to the added tungsten to the long irons (3-5). The third set in the new RSi family is the RSi TP irons. “The RSi TP irons were developed to deliver launch, consistency and feel to take performance to the next level for our Tour Professionals,” said Bystedt. “The shapes of these irons will be instantly pleasing to better players and will have the feel and workability that golfers expect in a forged product. It really is the best combination of performance, look and feel that we’ve created for the world’s best players,” he added. The 3-7 irons have forged, 1025 carbon steel hosels and faces that are plasma welded to 431 stainless steel backs. TaylorMade engineers say the construction offers the best of both worlds — the feel of a forged iron with the forgiveness of a cast iron. The 8-PW are fully forged from 1025 carbon steel. After checking out the RSi family, all that we can conclude is that TaylorMade is back with a vengeance and whoever counted them out due to the temporary set-backs, beware. The most prolific brand in golf equipment is in the hunt again and it’s hungry to gobble up market share with some cool products. Welcome back after a brief hiatus! No golfer is perfect - not even the best players in the world introduced the “Speed Pocket”, a feature that involved slots on the soles of the irons? hit the centre of the Well, the RSi irons all have slots too. The “Speed Pocket” if you recall led to longer, higher flying iron shots even club every time. So on mishits low on the face of the club. With the RSi’s the Asian Golf received slots have been engineered to further improve perfor- some sample sets of the RSi mance, especially on mishits on the heel and the toe. family and of the three models, the RSi 1 irons with RSi, we’re This is best explained by Tomo Bystedt, TaylorMade’s were by far, the largest and most forgiving of the three director of Product Creation for Irons. According to Byst- RSi iron models. The 3-7 irons are cast from 450 stain- giving all golfers a edt, “Face Slot Technology provides greater consistency less steel and have TaylorMade’s ThruSlot technology, across the face, giving players improved performance which cuts through the entirety of their soles. technology that can on mishits.” He went on to add, “No golfer is perfect - Our Equipment Editor Lawrence Young took out not even the best players in the world hit the centre of the RSi 1 and was very impressed with the irons. “The help their mishits the club every time. So with RSi, we’re giving all golfers RSi 1 have the thinnest faces of any of TaylorMade’s a technology that can help their mishits perform more new irons, and the company’s Inverted Cone Technol- perform more like like pure strikes.” Now how wonderful is that - this is like ogy, works well together with the face slots and Speed taking forgiveness to the absolute limit! Pockets to make the RSi 1 the longest irons in Taylor- pure strikes. Now The slots, which are now referred to as “Face slots” Made’s 2015 line,” Young explained. are used in the 3-8 irons of each of new iron models: the The RSi 2 is the company’s most progressive how wonderful is RSi 1, RSi 2 and RSi TP. The polymer-filled slots, which iron set, with five different constructions within are cut all the way through the club faces, are located the nine-club set to offer the best mix of distance, that - this is like just outside the score lines of the clubs. They allow the precision and feel. This set in the hands of a good heel and toe sections of the club heads to flex more golfer can be a very lethal weapon. In tests the taking forgiveness to easily on mishits, which creates more ball speed on RSi 2 generate ball speeds greater than that mishits than TaylorMade’s previous irons. of the famous SLDR irons which are noted for the absolute limit!”

56 57 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 EQUIPMENT FOCUS Fly-Z Family

*6)9(.VSMOHZPU[YVK\JLKP[ZÄYZ[L]LYMYVU[[VIHJR-307A65,HKQ\Z[HISL ^LPNO[[LJOUVSVN`-SPW[OL^LPNO[MVY^HYKMVYHWLUL[YH[PUNIHSSÅPNO[[OH[ NLULYH[LZTVYLYVSS6YÅPWP[IHJRMVYH[V^LYPUNÅPNO[WH[OHUKJHYY`[OVZL OHaHYKZ[OH[\ZLK[VNL[PU`V\YOLHK0[»Z[^VZL[[PUNZKLSP]LY[OLWLYMLJ[KPZ[HUJL HUK[YHQLJ[VY`MVY`V\YZ^PUN0[»ZSPRLOH]PUN[^VJS\IOLHKZVUVULZOHM[

ou’ve got to sit up and start paying attention when ing you right now that with Fly-Z, Cobra Golf has just announced certain industry observers start speaking about a the most compelling full line-up of metalwoods for the 2015 new product with tremendous exuberance. The season. In my mind, it’s unquestionably the one to beat, and I say product that is the subject of all the positive buzz that without a hint of reservation”. that’s going around the golf industry (goodness, it’s Wow! The young team at COBRA Golf must have popped aboutY time that we had some good news) is the new Fly-Z family bottles of Moet & Chandon to celebrate this incredible endorse- of drivers and metal woods introduced by COBRA Golf. ment! The guy who must have led the celebration would have The irreverent and in-your-face self-styled watchdog of the been Robert Philion, “the big cheese” at Cobra Golf. golf industry, My Golf Spy in a special review by Tony Covey In an exclusive interview with Asian Golf earlier this year, Phil- heaped a bucket-load of praise on the new clubs by declaring: ion did provide a peek into what was to come in 2015 when he “Where versatility and total performance are concerned, I’m tell- said, “People want change and we think we offer that and it is also

58 59 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 EQUIPMENT FOCUS Fly-Z Family

Where versatility and total performance are concerned, I’m telling you right now that with Fly-Z, Cobra Golf has just announced the most compelling full line-up of metalwoods for the 2015 season. In my mind, it’s unquestionably the one to beat, and I say that without a hint of reservation.” – Tony Covey

good to know that our customers know that we are looking to the Fly-Z and Fly-Z XL –and adjustability seems to be the focal point future and are willing to do things a little differently.” for these clubs. What COBRA Golf has done is to release an ad- A “little differently” sounds like an understatement! The FZ- justable weight technology with the FLY-Z+ Driver featuring the Fly family seems to have raised the bar by not just a notch but a FlipZone, a moveable weight system engineered to provide two Players have the ability with the new Fly-Z+ driver to move the whole bunch of notches. According to Philion, “We are not trying different flight paths in one club. centre-of-gravity to the front or back position depending on their to be the biggest in golf. We are trying to be the most desirable “The Fly-Z+ driver features the lowest CG of any adjustable swing. The FlipZone technology holds the key to promote faster and that’s what’s important to us!” And has COBRA Golf aced it weight driver on the market,” said Tom Olsavsky, vice president of ball speeds, lower spin and optimal launch angles. with what arguably will go down as a very desirable set of driv- R&D. “The new FlipZone provides golfers with two different flight The FlipZone features a 15-gram weight that can be set to- ers, fairway woods and hybrids. paths in one head - allowing golfers to play what is best for their ward the front or back of the head located low on the sole of the At the top of the Fly-Z heap are three new drivers - Fly-Z+, game. The result is one unique, performance and technology driven driver. Performance differs in the two weight settings, according golf club that is truly game changing.” It’s sort of like having one to COBRA Golf, allowing golfers to adjust to what is the longest driver with two heads! and straightest for them. The Fly-Z+ driver also features COBRA’s new Speed Channel Technology, which is an engineered trench around the perimeter of the face that works to minimize thickness, resulting in increased ball speeds across the face for incredible distance and more forgiveness. Besides the Fly-Z+, COBRA also has the Fly-Z Driver, which is minus the FlipZone moveable weight system. The Fly-Z has a low, back CG Zone Weighting, which delivers low spin, mid-high launch and fast ball speeds across the face. “The Fly-Z Driver is positioned as one of the most forgiving drivers currently in the

60 61 ASIAN GOLF EQUIPMENT FOCUS Fly-Z Family

Players have the ability with the new Fly-Z+ driver to move the centre-of-gravity to the front or back position depending on their swing. The FlipZone technology holds the key to promote faster ball speeds, lower spin and optimal launch angles.

marketplace, yet it doesn’t sacrifice distance,” said Olsavsky. “The surrounding the face that helps to minimize face thickness and 460cc Driver offers a slightly larger address profile that enabled our provide increased ball speeds across the face that result in incred- engineers to create the most forgiving driver that COBRA Golf has ible distance. ever made.” “Performance advancements in our fairways and hybrids also The Fly-Z incorporates MyFly8 technology that allows golfers to come with Zone Weighting which delivered improved CG position- choose from eight simple adjustable loft/trajectory settings (9.0*- ing both low and centered behind the center of the face area,” said 12.0*) with SmartPad that delivers a square face at address regard- Jose Miraflor, director of product marketin. ”While these internal less of loft setting. technologies are not visible to the golfer, performance gains can be And bringing up the rear of the new product launch is the Fly-Z easily noticed and easily attributed to the Speed Channel face.” XL. This is for seniors, women and new golfers since it has a slightly The metalwoods include the Fly-Z+ Fairway Woods, the Fly-Z lower profile face combined with an offset hosel. It is engineered Fairways and Hybrids, Fly-Z XL fairways and hybrids. to help through a higher draw-biased ball flights, according to the Well, COBRA Golf you’ve given the golf world PERFORMANCE company. FOR ALL LEVELS! As Philion told Asian Golf earlier this year, “We are Along with the new drivers, COBRA has also a new family of about having more fun and becoming more inclusive and this is Fly-Z fairway woods and hybrids which feature the all-new Speed where golf is heading, and we feel like we’re perfectly positioned.” Channel technology. Speed Channel, is an engineered trench The flood-gate to fun in golf is open – COBRA Golf, you rock!

62 63 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 EQUIPMENTUIPMENT FOCUFOCUSS WilsonWilson FG Tour V4V4 Our main goal however was to continue to innovate and improve upon our great forged iron heritage, especially as it relates to playability, versatility and optimal ball flight.”

The extremely thin, responsive face is made from Carpenter Custom 455 maraging stainless steel – the strongest and most premium available – which creates a high CT for improved ball speeds and distance. This material freed up weight so that mass could be moved low and to the toe for an optimized center of gravity. The FG Tour V4 utilities undertake similar cosmetics as the new FG Tour V4 irons, but feature a 7-gram adjustable weight positioned in the centre of the sole, helping Feel players to fine- tune ball flight through custom fitting. A 9-gram tungsten weight placed in the toe eliminates any draw bias in the head and provides the ideal centre of gravity.

There is no better validation for a set of “It was important for the new FG Tour V4 irons to maintain certain visual cues and specifications that our tour staff expects, new golf clubs than being battle-tested which based on their immediate positive feedback, we succeeded in,” explained Global Director of Innovation, Michael Vrska. “Our in a major tournament. Wilson Golf did main goal however was to continue to innovate and improve just that by putting its brand new FG upon our great forged iron heritage, especially as it relates to playability, versatility and optimal ball flight.” Tour V4 irons out on tour and the irons The 18-gram tungsten sole weight featured in the 3- through 7-irons lowers the centre of gravity and increases launch angle have since recorded three wins. without increasing spin. This produces a higher peak height on long and mid-iron shots, and thus a steeper angle of descent for holding ilson’s latest sign-on, Marcel Siem of greens and attacking tough pins. Germany, pulled off a stunning win in In addition, Wilson is also offering a of the FG Tour V4 utility iron. a play-off at the BMW Masters on the Developed as a versatile alternative to hybrids and long irons for European Tour. The FG Tour V4s were tour staff members, the FG Tour V4 utilities are forged for precision, rigorously tested and are currently played performance and playability from the tee. What began as a tour- byW Wilson’s Advisory Staff members, including PGA Tour profes- specific project became a reliable option for all elite Feel players. sionals Kevin Streelman, Ricky Barnes and three-time major “The FG Tour V4 utility addresses the needs of our tour staff winner Padraig Harrington. The V4s technological advance- in tougher wind and turf conditions,” commented Jon Pergande, ments are designed to enhance the Feel player’s game, and Global Manager of Hybrids and Irons. “It’s an extension of the FG build off of the FG Tour V2 irons, which led Streelman to two Tour line, helping to hit long shots into greens and to control ball PGA Tour victories. flight in the wind.”

64 65 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 171 DECEMBER 2014 GAME IMPROVEMENT Black Hat Golf Tips relationship to the target line. The shaft tracks the target line. fter many of my opening Lawyers have to pass the “bar” workshops inside a classroom, Swinging Motion Drill the teachings become crystal A simple but persuasive way to resolve confu- examination. Now, here’s the ‘bar’ exams I clear when I bring the stu- sion about “straight-back straight-through” is dents to the putting green and to use the following drill: want you to pass and understand! Aexplain to them the Swinging Motion. Take your address position for putting. Again, when golf clubs are bought, they Slide the club from the hands and place your do not come with directions on how to use hands in a praying position. Note that the palms them. Unfortunately, golfers who do not have of your hands are perpendicular to the target line. good mentors or coaches will eventually be- gin a journey to learning how to use the club Leaving the left hand’s palm in place along that would include so many trial and errors. the centre-line, make a two-foot backswing In my workshops, the idea of Swinging is with the right hand and then a forward swing demonstrated with a putter. It’s so simple to returning the right hand flush with the left. change clubs using the same concept once Repeat the motion and notice the fluidity, the golfer understands the idea of swing- simplicity and repeatability. ing. And swinging a putter is a good way Remember to always create a swinging to get the concept solid in your mind. The motion with all your clubs and you’ll become a common notion is to use the putter to hit, more consistent player in no time! Trust me! poke, push, tap or strike the ball. Tour players, when putting well, will almost always see It is common for players to be confused by the idea of ‘straight them using the putter in a swinging motion. Let’s take a closer look at the Swinging back, straight through.’ This idea is both correct and incorrect Motion since the shaft of the putter is on an incline (as opposed to vertical). Students can depending on the point of reference. If they refer to the putter head observe that the club is swinging like a pen- dulum but the swing is on an incline. Using and think it should remain square to the target line on the backswing the putter bar, you’ll see me swinging the club allowing the shaft of the club along the bar to and forward swing, their putting will be very problematic.”

maintain the position. As I swing the shaft of travels outside the target line on the back- the club slides along the putting bar. This is swing and outside the target line on the the correct Swinging Motion. The entire club forward swing. (see picture). is swinging towards the target. You can see with the putter bar that Despite the angle of the swing’s plane the putter face does NOT remain square to (the longer the club the more acute the the target line. However, the shaft does go angle), the swinging motion is circular and straight back and straight through. In the still returns the club momentarily to a posi- photo, you can observe the shaft is resting tion where both the shaft and the clubface on the straight bar of the putter bar. That are square to the target line. From that bar is parallel to the target line. Since the position, the ball always goes straight. shaft is resting on the straight bar of the It is common for players to be con- putter bar. That bar is parallel to the target fused by the idea of “straight back, straight line. Since the shaft rides along that rail, the through.” This idea is both correct and shaft is tracking the target line (if the putter incorrect depending on the point of refer- is not centre shafted, the shaft will track a ence. If they refer to the putter head and line parallel to the target line) and will move think it should remain square to the target “straight back and straight through.” The line on the backswing and forward swing, face of the golf club has no relationship to their putting will be very problematic. In the target line other than at the address po- most cases, this idea results in a swing that sition. However, the club shaft does have a

ABOUT TONY MEECHAI

Born and brought up in the United States, Tony Meechai won his first golf tournament at the age of nine. He began working in the golf industry when aged 15 and competed in various Mini Tour and PGA Tour qualifiers after turning professional in 1994. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from New Mexico State University and a degree in Marketing and Professional Golf Management, he has made a name for himself in Asia over the past decade, during which time he has served as Director of Instruction at Thailand’s Heartland Golf Schools and Springfield Royal Country Club as well as presenting tips on numerous region-wide golf television shows. Recently, eh founded the Tony Meechai Golf Academy that combines a curriculum including academics and golf education for aspiring Tour professionals. Programmes are in conjunction with international institutions throughout the world. For further information, please visit www.tmggolfeducation.com

www.tonymeechaigolf.com

66 67 ASIAN GOLF GAME IMPROVEMENT Pro Tour Golf College

HOW TO BECOME A WORLD CLASS GOLFER:

VISION STATEMENT Imagine that you decided to become a great golfer—a world class golfer. You love playing golf so much that you want to make it your career choice, and you desperately want to be successful playing it. develop your game to a world class standard, and over the following weeks we will help you to build your golf success bridge from where you are to where you want to take your game to. Here’s a simple way to think about it. All Success Begins with a Bold Idea REALITY What do you want from playing the game of golf? The definition of an idea is “a thought or ou dream of winning big profes- Ideas into Action suggestion as a possible path to action.” sional tournaments, you want I’m sure you would agree that everything Much of your life is a product of your ideas to earn lots of money, and you “man-made” began with an idea first? that became reality. Learning to drive a car want to walk the beautiful green Everything you can see around you was started with the idea that you wanted to drive fairways of Augusta National devised by a man or a woman (or a group of a car, which led to driving lessons, then passing Yand many of the other famous golf courses men and women) who thought their idea was a driving test, and eventually earning a driver’s where major golf championships are played. good enough to put into action, and eventu- license to legally drive a car on the road. You possibly also want to win a major or ally through a lot of effort it became a reality. Learning to play golf started with the idea two. This is a simple statement of fact, ideas that playing golf was something worthwhile Does that sound much like you? need action to exist. As such there are just doing. The idea led you to go to a golf course Do you have a big and bold vision of what two main types of ideas. (or driving range) to try it out. you want to achieve in golf that is similar to 1. Ideas that stay in your head. You either took some lessons formally, the one I’ve just described? 2. Ideas that become a reality because you act with an instructor, or informally, by reading a Are you a golfer who is deadly serious on them. book, or possibly watching a DVD. about becoming a top ranked professional There are lots of ideas that you have had Or maybe a family member gave you some golfer sometime in your future? that remain as ideas, and there are many tips to start you off. We hope that you do. ideas that you have had that you turned into Either way what started out as an idea In this article we want to help you to reality. became a reality. develop your vision of what you need to do to

68 69 ASIAN GOLF No Wonder Golf’s Industry Captains Talk To Us! www.asiapaciﬁcgolfgroup.com GAME IMPROVEMENT Pro Tour Golf College

golf to support my family and pro- to make progress in their game is that very vide them with a better life... often their vision is anything but clear. In fact, in most cases it isn’t written down 3. Describe What Your Game anywhere. You cannot achieve unprecedent- Will Look Like 5 Years From ed golf success by just “winging it.” Today (The When and Where) Winging it can and does lead golfers to try a bit of this, and try a bit of that. In other Look E.g. 5 years from today I will be words they approach golf improvement playing full time on the European as a fragmented and jumbled process that Tour and my world ranking will guarantees one thing; they are likely to give be inside 300. up well before they reach their vision. Why? 4. Describe What Your Game If you have an impoverished vision of Will Look Like 10 Years from what’s possible in your golfing future then Who Is The Golf Success Vision Statement Today (The When and Where) you are likely to find it difficult to bring it into reality. You will get a reality, but it won’t be Now there are ideas, and then there are big E.g. 10 years from today I will have won at the one you really want. and bold ideas that you can develop a golf least 3 times on the European Tour and my Why would any golfer have the motiva- success vision statement around. world ranking will be inside the top 100. tion to work really hard on their game if they You see the effort that moves you Never forget that everyone at the top of don’t have an inspiring vision of what they towards your vision should come after you world golf was once at the bottom. All world want to achieve from playing golf? develop enough clarity around your vision. class golfers started out as ordinary golfers Think about it like this. Talking And only a vision that is truly inspiring with a vision that they could be a lot more. can influence you to become motivated Developing your vision helps you to formulate MOTIVATION = MOTIVE (VISION) X ACTION (EFFORT) enough to sustain the long-term effort your plan for getting yourself from where you required to achieve your vision. are currently, to where you wish to go. You must be truly inspired by a bold Therefore a fundamental requirement of vision of what you believe is possible so you Rory McIlroy’s Grand Vision long-term golf success is consistent action can develop the motivation you need to fuel towards worthy goals. Research backs this up John Solheim Think about it, how do you think Rory McIl- Bob Bettinardi the daily physical effort required to make it by suggesting that persistence of effort and To Us! roy developed into a great golfer? It wasn’t come true for you. grit is directly related to a golfer’s passion for just hard work was it? You cannot be vague and general about achieving their long-term goals. He must have originally started with your vision, you must be very specific about We find that a lack of vision is probably the a bold idea that he could become a great it, so you will need to continually render biggest stumbling block to elite golf success. Tim Clarke golfer from Northern Ireland. He would your vision with as much detail as you can In summary, the path to golf success have thought about this idea everyday as imagine. begins with a well thought out vision of what he went to work on it. The clearer you are about what you want you want to achieve from golf. The clearer you Because he was continually inspired by his from the game of golf, the easier it will be to can be about the level of success you wish to bold vision, he was motivated to apply him- build a plan for turning it into reality. achieve playing golf, the easier it will be to de- self diligently to it. The result of this constant A golf success vision statement is a sim- velop a relevant and purposeful plan of action. mental and physical attention to the vision ple declaration about what you want your Go to work today on your golf success vi- was that it moved him closer and closer to it. golf game to look like in the future (usually sion statement. Imagine what your life would around 5 to 10 years but can be longer). WARNING: Where There is No Vision... be like as a top 100 golfer and everything Only The Captains Of The Golf Industry – That’s Who! It is your long-term vision of where you associated with that vision. will take your golf game to. The following Here’s the rub though, and it’s important. The biggest challenge we continually questions will help you to start formulating Lawrie Montague and David Milne - Pro Tour Golf It’s quite an achievement to have Solheim Sr.; Bob Philion, President state of golf today. These are the your own golf success vision statement. face working with elite golfers struggling College landed exclusive interviews with of Cobra Puma Golf; Cindy people who are moulding the 1. Describe Your Core Ideology the men and women who are at Davis, President of Nike Golf; Bob future of golf and no one can read (The What) the pinnacle of the golf industry Bettinardi President of Bettinardi the pulse of the industry better E.g. I want to become a top 100 golfer in the today. Putters and Tim Clarke, President of than these industry captains. world (we consider a golfer ranked inside Wilson Golf. the top 100 as a world class golfer). The movers and shakers of golf Only Asian Golf has been able to 2. Describe Your Core Value/s Behind who have spoken to Asian Golf Powerful men and women who bring you this treat – yet another this Ideology (The Why) include Callaway Golf’s CEO Chip have shared with us their thoughts, measure of our standing in the E.g. I want to become a world class golfer be- Brewer, PING’s Chairman, John views and perspectives of the global golf industry. cause I want to play on a major professional golf tour where I can play for large purses every week so I have more opportunity to become a financially independent profession- ASIAN GOLF – A PRODUCT OF DISRUPTIVE INNOVATION al golfer by the time I am 40. I want to earn enough income from playing professional Pushing The Boundaries Of Change Beyond The Limit! A member of the Asia Paciﬁc Golf Group

70 71 ASIAN GOLF Print Digital On-line Apps Video Streaming Conferences Education 2015 – Good For Golf Or More Blood-Letting? 2014 was arguably a tough year for golf and it’s time to move on. Moving on, what is in store for 2015? More of the same or are there some signs of hope and promise. It’s CONSISTENTLY VOTED AS really a mixed bag – there are some in the industry who reckon that 2015 is going to be a great year while there are others who beg to differ. We will bring you a full assessment of what is in store for the New Year! THE BEST COURSE IN THAILAND

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1997 1998 Winner: Tiger Woods VOLVO MASTERS VOLVO MASTERS VOLVO MASTERS VOLVO MASTERS Winner: Vijay Singh The year is coming to an end and the management ASIA ASIA ASIA ASIA and staff of the Asia Pacific Golf Group would 2005 2006 2007 2008 like to thank all our readers for their continued Winner: Shiv Kapur Winner: Thongchai Jaidee Winner: Prayad Marksaeng Winner: Lam Chih Bing support and to also wish everyone a productive and successful 2015. Thai Country Club www.thaicountryclub.com Tel: +66 (38) 570-234 [email protected] For all the latest news and views from the Asian golf scene, The Peninsula Bangkok www.peninsula.com Tel: +66 (2) 861-2888 [email protected] 72 ASIAN GOLF subscribe to Asian Golf – Asia’s most powerful golfing voice! www.asiapacificgolfgroup.com Join Team Titleist at titleist.asia