ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

„SPECIAL FEATURE ƒ20 ƒ34 20 Talent Watch – Lock In On Danny Masrin! In our search for young talent and the next prospect most likely to make it on the world stage, we came across an impressive young player from Indonesia. He is 22 year old Danny Masrin who will be graduat- ing from his college in North America in December and he is already preparing to get his card to play on the Asian Tour starting in 2016.

24 Asia’s Golf Legacy Stored For Life! In an unprecedented move, the Asia Pacific Golf Group (APGG), the longest established specialist golf media house in the region and the owner of the prestigious Asian Golf Awards has installed a permanent showcase to recognise the Continent’s best over the years. The permanent showcase will take the form of the Asian Golf Awards Museum and it will be a virtual site in cyberspace. The golf industry has started a new romance in Asia and this time, the heart throb of the industry is Vietnam. There 28 Version 3.0 – Growing COVER STORY COVER is a major push towards the development of new golf From Strength To Strength

„ courses in this once war-torn nation and leading the thrust 24 56 The world’s oldest golf company, Wilson Staff, after ƒ ƒ is the BRG Group, a multi-faceted Vietnamese conglom- flying under the radar for quite a while, is raising its erate led by the dynamic lady entrepreneur Madame profile and displaying some exciting developments Nguyen Thi Nga who is said to be the wealthiest business- in new product innovations. Most importantly, the one-time great is showing that it has also regained woman in Vietnam. Her newest golf project is the Nicklaus its ability to make money and be profitable. The Design Legend Hill Golf Resort in Hanoi. Asian Golf was company has definitely re-invented itself, a process invited to visit the course and to get an insight on what that Asian Golf refers to as “Version 3.0”. Check out this report to see how Wilson Staff is re-booting Madame Nga has planned for the future of golf in Vietnam. . itself.

„EQUIPMENT FOCUS

48 Callaway’s Big Bomber Blitzkrieg! Over a period of 15 months, Callaway Golf has introduced something like eight drivers – five of them bearing the “Big Bertha” branding. The latest to hit the market are the Great Big 34 If It Works For Mission Hills, Better Take Note! Bertha and the Big Bertha Alpha 16 driver. We Footgolf is growing fast. How fast? We understand that in the United States alone, footgolf have not received the products yet but based courses have surged from about 30 in 2013 to well over 300 this year. Mission Hills Group in on preliminary information, looks like Callaway China has recognized its popularity and has adopted footgolf as a new business model for expects to do well with these new big sticks. the world’s largest golf resort. 62 Black Hat Tips: 52 Miura’s Out With Its Newest Putter Pow! Knock Out! 40 Malaysia – A Giant In Professional Golf Miura Golf has debuted the KM 008 putter that If you are a golf fan, The next few months will see Malaysia playing host to multi-million dollar professional golf signifies a new chapter for the next genera- I’m sure you will tournaments. October will see the return of the hugely popular PGA Tour’s CIMB Classic tion of “the very best blade putter” made of a make time to watch GAME-IMPROVEMENT which is a US$7 million tournament. Malaysian conglomerate Sime Darby will play host to forged, milled mild steel. Designed by master The Presidents Cup the US$2 million LPGA tournament and in early 2016, Maybank will be the host to the US$3 club-maker Katsuhiro Miura, the KM 008 is an this year. The Presi- „ million Maybank Malaysian Open. Welcome to the big time Malaysia! improvement on Miura’s now retired KM 350 dents Cup is going putter. to be a great match 46 Hail Jordan Spieth! play event, just like A special tribute to Jordan Spieth, the 22-year-old Texan who has assumed the pole posi- a “boxing match!” I tion as golf’s world number one. In the process, he toppled Rory McIlroy from the top spot. hope both teams are ready to com- 56 Golf Needs To Get “Cool”! pete! The big buzz amongst golf circles, especially those who are the power-brokers of the game, seems to be focused on how the game can pick up a head of steam and grow. Robert Phillion, president of Cobra PUMA Golf believes not enough is being done – check out what one of the industry’s brightest business minds has to say.

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he guy is the newly appointed – after all that Continent is its territory. That’s Our defenses are weak, almost non- chief executive of the European the market that the tour should develop existent and both these tours have and are Tour. And guess what is one of and not look at stretching its tentacles out taking advantage of this weakness to just his most pressing aims in his to Asia. But then again, maybe the tour has roll in and pick up choice opportunities. This new job? One would expect that no choice but to look for new markets to is not healthy for the sport from an Asia per- his priorities would be focused generate much needed revenue to keep it spective. The Asian Tour, which is a players’ Ton the European Tour and the challenges it alive and to ensure that prize monies for its tour, is going to be the big loser. While there faces, but this does not happen to be the case. players are both attractive and competitive. may be arguments presented that this will The man is thinking about “strengthening ties” The need to seek out new markets is have a positive effect on raising standards in Asia and by this, we reckon he is talking compounded by the fact that the European for Asian professionals, we think otherwise. If about ties with the Asian Tour which has so far Tour can’t look across the pond to the United anything at all, the earning potential of Asian had a chequered track record this year. States of America or Canada – both these professionals is literally going to be robbed So, are we to interpret Keith Pelley’s (this markets are totally out of bounds! Especially by tours that are going to hit our shores and is the new man at the helm of the European the U.S. where the PGA Tour, under the this is sad. Tour) as a gesture of well-intentioned good- watchful eye of commissioner Tim Finchem, While both these tours may bring some will or are there sinister designs behind his guards his muscle-bound organization like a spectacle to Asia, it is not going to be ben- self-professed proclamation of help? pit-bull! Let’s not forget that Finchem is also eficial to the majority of Asian professionals. Let’s first of all put everything into on the hunt for new markets to stage PGA We’d like to suggest that Pelley keeps his focus proper perspective. The European Tour is said Tour tournaments and he has already been on Europe and work at keeping his players in to have some 50 co-sanctioned tournaments successful in Asia with events like the CIMB Europe rather than creating excuses for them with the Asian Tour, most of which are events Classic – a rich US$7 million dollar purse! migrating to richer pastures in North America. that the former has brokered. Take away the So, the picture now becomes clearer. Leave Asia alone and let the Asian Tour de- European assist, and there would really be Asia is a much sought after prize for both velop and grow the professional game. We are nothing of great substance to shout about as the European Tour and the PGA Tour and like sure that they can do a decent job if let alone. far as the Asian Tour is concerned. in days gone by, when the colonial powers We hope that the Asian Tour has not slipped This is where this development takes on reigned supreme over many parts of this into a deep slumber where they would wel- a twist – an intriguing one at that! The Eu- continent, we are seeing the “colonization” of come playing the role of second fiddle to the ropean Tour’s remit should really be Europe Asia again. European Tour. Who knows!

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The golf industry has started a new romance in Asia and this time, the heart throb of the industry is Vietnam. There is a major push towards the development of new golf courses in this once war- torn nation and leading the thrust is the BRG Group, a multi-faceted Vietnam- ese conglomerate led by the dynamic lady entrepreneur Madame Nguyen Thi Nga who is said to be the wealthiest businesswoman in Vietnam. Her newest golf project is the Nicklaus Design Leg- end Hill Golf Resort in Hanoi. Asian Golf was invited to visit the course and to get an insight on what Ma- dame Nga has planned for the future of golf in Vietnam.

12 13 ASIAN GOLF COVER STORY An Emerging Giant ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

f there is one country that dominates the “golfgolf development buzz” in Asia, it has to be un-- questionably Vietnam. Straddled along thee South China Sea, this ancient land was oncee part of Imperial China for over a millennium fromrom 111BC to AD 938. It is a nation that has fought many warsars and prevailed and in more recent times, it has driven outout foreign forces from Japan, France and the United Stateses of America. After the defeat of the Americans in 1975,, ending the Vietnam War, the country was unified but remained impoverished and politically isolated. The re-re- form of the war-ravished country started in 1986 whenen the government initiated a series of economic and political reforms and by 2000, modern Vietnam with a population in excess of 90 million, had establishedd diplomatic relations with all nations. Since 2000, Vietnam’s economic growth rate has been among thehe highest in the world, and, in 2011, it had the highestt global growth generators index among 11 major economies. Its successful economic reforms resulteded in its joining the World Trade Organisation in 2007 and with 2015 almost over, Vietnam is trending to- wards a growth rate in excess of 6 percent which iss about the highest in Asia.

ith the growth of golf for the golflf iindustryndustry anandd ququiteite rightlyrightly so interests in banking, real estate reresortssorts anandd thetht new golf course has been appropriately tanking in China, because quite a number of new golf course reretailtail andand withwith a payrollpayroll exceeding more namedna after the Vietnamese legend. The Legend Hills Golf Resort will once the darling of projects are reported to have been ap- than 7,000 employees. At the official opening ceremony on Au- go down the annals of golf history the golf industry and proved throughout Vietnam. In 2014, she was recognised by the gust 9 which was attended by high ranking with the rest of Asia Leading the thrust in golf course devel- Asia Pacific Golf Group, the owner of ASIAN political and government officials, Madame as Asia’s first “twin-green” golf course that not really showing opment is the BRG Group, a multi-faceted GOLF with the prestigious Asia Pacific Wom- Nga said, “The launch of this new golf anyW signs of dramatic growth in golf devel- Vietnamese conglomerate led by a dynamic an Golf Entrepreneur of The Year Award. The course is the realization of a vision to offer offers golfers an opportunity to play opment, Vietnam seems poised to be the lady entrepreneur who is said to be the owner of the award winning Kings’ Island golfers a unique and a world class facility industry’s new heart throb. wealthiest businesswoman in Vietnam. Golf Resort in Hanoi and the BRG Ruby Tree and I am proud to declare that the original 36-holes on an 18-hole configuration.” Golf course development in Vietnam is Those who know this “iron lady” speak very Golf Resort in the port city of Hai Phong, vision has been realized and in many ways, experiencing a “eureka moment” with a sud- kindly about her and are very complimen- Madame Nga has now officially opened her it has exceeded all of our expectations.” nership between the BRG Group and the and commenting on this show-case devel- den burst of new golf courses already in play, tary to her seemingly boundless vigour and newest golf development, the Legend Hill The Legend Hills Golf Resort will go Nicklaus Design Group, led by the world’s opment, Paul Stringer, president of Nicklaus currently in development or being planned spirit. “She is perhaps the most compas- Golf Resort. down the annals of golf history as Asia’s first greatest golfer, Jack Nicklaus, arguably the Companies for the Asia Pacific region said for launch. All of a sudden, virtually every out sionate entrepreneur one can expect to The new golf course, located just 30 “twin-green” golf course that offers golfers an biggest and most dynamic golf business “Legend Hills is very special and unique in of work architect, builder and golf consul- meet and her enthusiasm for all business minutes away from the capital city of Hanoi, opportunity to play 36-holes on an 18-hole in the world. This partnership will see both that it has been designed to offer a variety tant has been awoken from a deep slumber, opportunities, especially golf is incredible,” has been built on a historic site known as configuration. With the opening of this course, organisations working together to help of strategic hole combinations that can caused by the lack of jobs and many are commented one of her senior managers. Soc Son District made famous throughout the BRG Group is now positioned as Vietnam’s develop new golf courses, golf resorts and be played in one 18-hole round.” He went reported to be heading back to Asia with Meet the visionary Madame Nguyen Thi Vietnam by Saint Giong, renown as one of premier golf course owner and operator. golf academies throughout Vietnam. on to add, “We have created two separate their focus firmly fixed on Vietnam. Nga, chairman of the BRG Group and chair- the “four Vietnamese religious immortals”. The launch of the Legend Hills Golf The Legend Hills Golf Resort is Nicklaus green complexes playing from one primary It’s the new happy hunting ground man of SEABank and Intimex with extensive As a mark of respect to this legendary hero, Resort also marks a very significant part- Design’s first major golf course in Vietnam landing zone on each hole and from our

14 15 ASIAN GOLF COVER STORY An Emerging Giant ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

perspective the twin greens add interest, tegic partnership will be the development As a big investor and a serious stake- Sharing her vision for the BRG Viet- challenge, and a unique design feature to of junior golfers. The ambitious programme holder in golf, the BRG Group has elected Our immediate plan is to make con- Golf U16 programme, Madame Nga said, the golf course.” According to Stringer, the is called the BRG VietGolf U16. Commenting to make a long term investment in the “Our immediate plan is to make contact Legend Hill Golf course has water, strate- on VietGolf U16 Mark Andrew Reeves, BRG’s youth of Vietnam. “We want to attract tact with and introduce golf to at with and introduce golf to at least 5,000 gically placed bunkers, and is a beautiful Director of Golf Development said, “In short young people in Vietnam to the game of children living and attending schools in environment in which to play golf. BRG plans to take Vietnamese children aged golf, especially those who would not nor- least 5,000 children living and attending the Hai Phong area adjacent to BRG Doson The launch of this new golf course also 8-15 (U16) from all walks of life and introduce mally have a chance of playing the game Seaside Ruby Tree by end December heralds a “strategic alliance” between the them to golf. BRG will start with on-range and by so doing, it is our hope that we will schools in the Hai Phong area adjacent to BRG Group and Nicklaus Design that will sessions at BRG Doson Seaside Ruby Tree in be able to discover and develop exciting 2015 and with a similar numeric goal for see the development of business initiatives the Hai Phong area and BRG Kings’ Island in young talent under the VietGolf U16 pro- BRG Doson Seaside Ruby Tree by end De- children in Hanoi surrounding BRG Kings’ that will go well beyond golf course design. Hanoi in July and August 2015 respectively.” gramme,” explained Madame Nga. Island Resort.” It will cover a wide range of other golf- These programmes will be coordinated and Considering that Vietnam is a sprawl- cember 2015 and with a similar numeric Given the BRG Group’s current invest- related business opportunities that will be managed by PGA certified experts. ing nation with a large population, BRG ment in golf development and its pro- focused on developing Vietnam into a truly The BRG VietGolf U16 programme has VietGolf U16 is not daunted by the task goal for children in Hanoi surrounding jected development plans, two things are world-class venue for quality golf and to three major goals which are: at hand. According to Reeves, “We will for certain – golf is on an upward trend in also help develop the country into a major start with ‘into school’ visits and ‘schools BRG Kings’ Island Resort.” Vietnam and the BRG Group is going to be „To produce a Vietnam amateur force in international golf. to golf course’ visits from September 2015 at the forefront of the projected growth of champion by 2018; “Working with Nicklaus Design we will with support from local authorities and Seaside Ruby Tree Club at off peak times nies support will kick in when we start the the game. „To produce Vietnamese children seek out suitable locations throughout gradually grow the programme through and on school holidays and it is hoped that Nicklaus Academy in Thang Loi, Hanoi no While we are tempted to refer to this good enough to represent Vietnam Vietnam to develop into spectacular golf free weekend morning on-range tuition as BRG acquires more golf courses in differ- later than March 2016. This involvement surge in development as being something in the 19th Asia Games; and courses, hotels and resorts and golf acad- which will lead to proficiency and course ent regions of Vietnam, we will extend the will grow in 2016 – 2018 as we continue similar to what happened in China over emies to help develop and grow the game „To produce a Vietnamese player testing.” programme,” he added. to open three additional Jack Nicklaus the last number of years, it is hoped that of golf in Vietnam,” revealed Madame Nga. good enough to compete on a major “Eventually children will be able to Speaking for the Nicklaus Design Academies of Golf throughout Vietnam in the pace will be controlled and is both tour (Asian, European, US) by 2025. One of the key focus areas of this stra- play free of green fees at BRG’s Doson Group, Stringer said, “The Nicklaus Compa- the coming four years.” sustained and sustainable in Vietnam.

16 17 ASIAN GOLF Golf’s First Ever Town Hall Debate IT’S DIFFERENT. IT’S REVOLUTIONARY. IT’S GAME-CHANGING!

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Strategic Business Partners Official Business Partner For Beverages Register Online: tinyurl.com/APGS2015 SPECIAL FEATURE Rising Stars ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

In the short-term I am planning to compete in Asia. How- ever the ultimate goal is to move beyond the Asian Tour and onto the European or PGA tour one day.” – Danny Masrin

Every once in a while, a young golfer emerges in Asia who holds out promise as be- ing the total package. We’ve seen this with Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat, India’s Anirban Lahiri, Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama and lately, Malaysia’s rising young gun, Gavin Green. These are players who share one thing in common – they possess a truck-load of talent and skill that’s been good enough to take them onto the world stage. Matsuyama, Aphibarnrat and Lahiri have already made it on the international WYVMLZZPVUHSJPYJ\P[HUK^LÄYTS`ILSPL]L[OH[NP]LU.YLLU»Z<:JVSSLNL[YHJRYL- cord, he is destined for big things in the near future.

n our search for young talent and “If I do not get my card in my first oped a pathway and it does not start and the next prospect most likely to attempt I will play on the Asian Develop- stop with the Asian Tour. He has his sights make it on the world stage, we ment Tour for the first year,” said 22 year set on the big game which is to make it came across an impressive young old Danny Masrin. This youngster is not all the way to play on his dream tour – the player from Indonesia. He will be just a talented player – he’s got brains and PGA Tour, the tour for the big boys of graduating from his college in he uses it well to strategise his future. We professional golf! “In the short-term I am INorth America in December and he is have to differentiate Danny from most of planning to compete in Asia. However the already preparing to get his card to play on the others that we run into because he is ultimate goal is to move beyond the Asian the Asian Tour starting in 2016. one young man who has already devel- Tour and onto the European or PGA tour

20 21 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Rising Stars ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

one day,” is Danny’s vision of the future. I can hit the ball as well as any of the play- From that one example of how a poor my game has improved from the combina- The young Indonesian started playing ers on tour, but where I differ from them mental attitude can affect a golfer’s game, tion of a good full-time coach as well as play- golf seriously when he entered the Ameri- is the way they handle themselves on the Danny has become very adept at hanging ing collegiate golf.” can college system which he describes course,” Danny explained. “The more I have mentally tough against on-course adversi- Asian Golf has had an opportunity of as being “very competitive.” “I think that looked into the mental side of the game ties. Speaking with tremendous confidence, watching Danny in action and he is most college golf is a great platform for juniors to the more intrigued by it I have become,” he he said, “Now when I see my ball plugged in certainly a young man on a mission. He go through as you build networks, friend- exclaimed. a bunker I say it’s not a bad lie …. I can get describes himself as “a pretty long hitter ships and experience that you cannot learn To prove his point, Danny shared a up and down and I am able to address the and I hit my driver over 300 yards and my anywhere else.” He explained that the U.S. piece of advice that he received from a shot with a positive attitude where I give irons are also pretty long and one of my college golf season normally runs through sports psychologist who presented him myself hope.” Before this radical transfor- strengths.” Under the watchful eye of his fall and winter and as he put it, “we don’t with this poser: “When you hit a bad shot mation, Danny would have given up hope coach, Danny has sharpened his short game exactly play in the “easiest” conditions.” “We into a bunker and you walk up and see that and in despair marked up his card with a and according to him, “I have really put in a play in a lot of cold, windy weather, espe- it’s plugged what is your first thought?” bogey. “The mental side of the game is what lot of time into my wedge game and putting cially when you go to school in the Midwest Danny said he responded with a shrug and separates a good player from a truly great and now I would probably assess it as being and I think that the competition and the retorted, “It’s an automatic bogey …..it’s a player,” is how he evaluates the importance 100 times better than it used to be and weather conditions have both made me a terrible lie, and I am so unlucky.” of possessing a strong mental game. together with my iron play, I see the short better player,” he said. The psychologist thought otherwise Danny’s father, Jimmy Masrin, a man game as a major asset to my game.” Having played competitively both and questioned if it was really a bad lie and obsessed with golf and a scratch player As the young Indonesian gets ready in Asia and in America as a junior player, explained that under most circumstances, himself, is a highly successful businessman to embark on his professional game, Danny feels that there are a lot of differ- a player will perceive the worst and when and has been a source of tremendous sup- he has just signed on with Adidas/Tay- ences that a player will experience playing this happens, everything starts to crumble. port to his development as a top junior and lormade for clothing and equipment. in both regions. By his reckoning, one area “What I learned from this observation is that college golfer. Jimmy is the man behind the However, he will stick to playing with his of the game that is of utmost important in as golfers we need to focus on control- Leadbetter Academy in Indonesia, and this Titleist AP2 irons. America is the attention paid to the mental ling what we can control and one of those is where young Danny has been coached Young Danny is on his way and watch aspects of golf. “During the last two years things that we can control is how we react since 2011. “I work with Phillipe DeBuschere out for this talent who has the potential of my college career I started to focus on to shots and how we perceive shots,” Danny (the academy’s lead coach) and have been to break out and hit the big time. He is the the mental side of the game because while pointed out. with him ever since. I can definitely say that total package and a great hope for Asia!

I think that college golf is a great platform for juniors to go through as you build networks, friendships and experience that you cannot learn anywhere else.”

22 23 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Asian Golf Awards ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

While golf has had a relatively long history in Asia, very little has been done in terms of maintaining a permanent record of the achievements of men and women in the industry.

his is all set to change with the launch of the Asian Golf Awards Museum. In an unprec- edented move, the Asia Pacific Golf Group (APGG), the longest established specialist golf media house in the region and the owner of the prestigious Asian Golf Awards has installed a permanent showcase to recognise the Continent’s best over the years. The Asian Golf Awards is widely regarded as the Asian golf industry’s equivalent of Hol- lywood’s “Oscars”. Annually, the golf industry recognises its best through an on-line poll of golfingT facilities across the Asia region. There are more than 48 award categories and special awards that honour the best golf courses in the region, the best golf destinations and the best personalities in the industry. It serves as a yardstick by which excellence in the golf industry is measured in Asia. The permanent showcase will take the form of the Asian Golf Awards Museum and it will be a virtual site in cyberspace. Some of the greatest names in Asian golf are now permanently installed in this special museum.

24 25 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Asian Golf Awards

CHANGE AGENT Extraordinaire ANDY STANGENBERG Gary Player

Jack Nicklaus

Andy Stangenberg is not just another speaker. Andy entertains and keeps you at the edge He is a special performer who transcends all of your seat throughout a session, he also of the known norms and boundaries of public imparts knowledge that will help make Thongchai Jaidee speaking. He is often described as a speaker a definite difference to anybody who from "another planet" and this is attributable to watches and listens to him. the fact that he does not conform to universally "Attending an Andy Stangenberg Peter Thomson acceptable standard procedures. session is like watching something He is an un-boxed thinker and passionate cataclysmic happening – he Dr. David Chu about all aspects of service and its delivery; is change in motion!" said Bill he is intense when he talks about leadership Sanderson, a noted international and performance; and he is committed business coach. To commemorate this auspicious milestone, we have to identifying and bringing out the best in everyone he touches. Andy connects and taken the decision to create a home for the awards and engages with his audience in a very interactive we felt that in the absence of a brick and mortar facility, the and personal manner and this is what sets him next best option was to create a grand web site to pay tribute apart as a star performer. to the industry’s greats.”¶:\ÄHU:HPM\S "I have seen many top speakers in my time but never have I witnessed so much energy, The awards programme has been Group in China said, “We have always had ■ Jack Nicklaus drive and innovative thinking to match the ■ around since the late 1990s but was only a special place for the Asian Golf Awards Gary Player Stangenberg package. This guy will drag you formalised and actively promoted starting and APPG needs to be thanked for having ■ Peter Thomson in 2006 and this year will mark the pro- both the vision and the drive to undertake ■ Thongchai Jaidee through all the emotions and senses - he will gramme’s tenth anniversary. to organise this special awards programme ■ Dr. David Chu make you laugh, cry and celebrate - all in one “To commemorate this auspicious mile- which is the best in Asia.” In conjunction with the Asian Golf sitting. This is the magic of Andy Stangenberg," stone, we have taken the decision to create The Asian Golf Awards has more than 48 Awards Museum, APGG will also be launch- a home for the awards and we felt that in award categories and included amongst its ing another service that will rank the is how noted international speaker Gregg the absence of a brick and mortar facility, special award categories are: Most Powerful People in Golf in Asia. This Patterson describes Andy.Andy the next best option was to create a grand ■ The Asia Pacific Golf Hall of Fame programme, now in its third year is managed web site to pay tribute to the industry’s ■ The Asia Pacific Golf Life-Time Achieve- jointly by GOLF Inc. magazine from North greats,” said Sufian Saiful, the curator of the ment Award America and APGG. The results of this list will cyberspace museum. ■ The Asia Pacific Custodian of The Envi- be published in the October issue of Asian The museum is now “live” at ronment Award Golf. Like the Asian Golf Awards Museum, the www.asiangolfawards.com Among the legends and great names “Power List” will have its own web site that Commenting on the programme, Ten- who have been inducted into the Asia will serve as a record of the men and women niel Chu, vice chairman of the Mission Hills Pacific Golf Hall of Fame are: who have been elected to be on this list. Be 'Touched' by Andy Stangenberg A Realty And Business Coach Like No Other!

26 27 ASIAN GOLF CMAA Asia Pacific Pte Ltd & Q-Principle Email: Andy Stangenberg [email protected] or Call: +65-6323 2800; Mobile: +65-8339 8352. SPECIAL FEATURE Wilson Staff ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

The odyssey began back in the last century – 1914 WREHH[DFWZKHQ:LOVRQ6WDσHP- barked on a journey that would establish it as one of the true greats of the golf industry. It is a brand that the heroes of golf depended on and these LQFOXGHGOHJHQGVOLNH*HQH6DUD]HQ6DP6QHDG:DOWHU +DJHQ$UQROG3DOPHU1LFN)DOGR3D\QH6WHZDUW-RKQ'DO\ %HQ&UHQVKDZDQG9LMD\6LQJK7RGD\RQHKXQGUHG\HDUVODWHUDI- ter being passed through the hands of various owners and corporate UHVWUXFWXULQJV:LOVRQ6WDσLVWDNLQJRQWKHQHZFHQWXU\ZLWKH[FLWLQJQHZ SURGXFWVDQGDEROGYLVLRQIRUWKHIXWXUH$VLDQ*ROIORRNVLQWRWKHQHZ:LOVRQ 6WDσZLWK7LP&ODUNHJHQHUDOPDQDJHUDQGWKHPDQDWWKHKHOPRIWKHFRPSDQ\ SPECIAL FEATURE Wilson Staff ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

man, a European Tour win by Marcel Siem, going to be five years down the road and D200 line features the right light technol- and it was really special to see Padraig Har- we have a clear road map on how we are ogy that works for a majority of its golf rington back in the winner’s circle on the going to get the brand there,” Clarke ex- consumers. “We are able to measure this Asian Tour. To top it off it, it was a profitable plained. “Our strategy is to take the market through extensive consumer testing and year for Wilson Staff in a very competitive conditions out of play as we do not need to I believe our right light technology was business climate.” react to the craziness we have seen in the recognized on Golf Digest’s Hot List Gold Clarke who has been at the driver’s seat market over the past few years. Our main Awards in the Driver/ Irons category and since 2006 has stuck to a very well defined objective is to execute our brand strategies in the Silver Awards on Fairway Metals/ strategy that is centred on developing in- with a focus on profitability and continuous Hybrid. In order to be an innovative brand novative world class golf products that help improvement each and every year.” it requires a willingness to go against the people enjoy the game while giving its tour This strategy is clearly manifested in norm when the product gives the golfer players a competitive advantage through Wilson Staff’s current line of equipment. The better results,” Clarke pointed out. products like the Wilson D200 line of equip- ment and the low compression innovations Our strategy is to take the market in the Duo range of golf balls. It is a well-acknowledged fact that conditions out of play as we do the golf equipment sector of the industry has been experiencing very difficult times not need to react to the craziness we over the past few years primarily caused by excess inventory and ruthless price wars. have seen in the market over the past Wilson Staff seems to have been mindful of few years. Our main objective is to ex- this blood-letting and steered clear of the mayhem. “We know where Wilson Golf is ecute our brand strategies with a focus on profitability and continuous im- provement each and every year.”

sian Golf met Clarke when he had just assumed his new corporate respon- sibilities in 2007 and he immediately gave a strong impression that he was a manA on a serious mission. For those who are not familiar with Wilson Staff, it may help to point out that it is the oldest golf reputation as world class golf equipment The company needed a equipment company in the world and it is used by the best players in the world! This major, almost seismic make-over also the brand that has “more majors won period was “Version 1.0” in the history of and this came in 2006 when than any other brand.” Players using Wilson the company. Clarke took over as general Staff clubs have won a total of 61 majors! After being subjected to the ignominy manager and started to re-engi- Just in case you are wondering why we of being down-graded to a Walmart brand neer the company. This period have tagged this article as “Version 3.0”, by PepsiCo, Wilson Staff was bought by a witnessed the launch of Wilson there’s a very good reason behind it. The private equity group and nothing hap- Staff’s “Version 3.0” – the slick early years were great years for Wilson Staff pened under the new ownership which last- management process that has until 1970, when PepsiCo (yeah, the outfit ed about four years. It was again sold off to seen the company consolidate that produces the soda pop) purchased its current owners, Amer Sports just before itself and lay a foundation on solid the company. Under PepsiCo, Wilson Staff the turn of the century. It was a tumultu- bedrock that will see it progress was almost destroyed by the bottler’s mass ous period and Wilson Staff was wallowing into the future. marketing strategy which down-graded in red ink amidst numerous management “Version 3.0” has already started the once lofty image of Wilson-Staff to that re-shuffles and nothing looked good for the producing results according to Clarke of a mass-market, bargain basement de- once great brand. This period was “Version who said,”Last year (2014) was certainly a partment store brand. There went Wilson- 2.0” (a lot happened in this period but we’ve remarkable year for Wilson Golf. We had a Staff’s highly respected and revered decided to pass on it). notable win on The PGA TOUR by Kevin Streel-

30 31 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Wilson Staff

Wilson Staff has been a pioneer in light- players want to continue to hit things further rington, Kevin Streelman, and Ricky Barnes weight technology and this technology has or harder by being able to swing faster with on the PGA TOUR.” Clarke explained. been used extensively in the D200 series of the same effort,” Clarke pointed out. He went In the context of Wilson Staff’s steadily clubs and its predecessor, the D100 series. on to add, “It is in our DNA to challenge rising profile, the company’s golf balls have As a division of Wilson, the sporting goods the norm and always ask the next question been received very well by consumers, manufacturer who are leaders in making which is WHY NOT! Fat Shaft, Low Compres- especially the Duo range of balls. According world class equipment to impact balls with sion, Fybrids, Right Lite and more coming to Clarke the Duo is the world’s softest ball at different sports, this has given Wilson Staff a soon are all driven by our own curiosity and 29 compression and it has taken the golf ball definite advantage. For years, Wilson Staff has advanced consumer insight.” industry by storm. He said, “Currently in the used advanced consumer insights from all of Challenging the norm can also be seen US, four of the top selling balls are now low its sports to give it the opportunity to stay in on a different level – the professional golf compression products which is forcing many front of consumer trends. “We’ve found that tours where Wilson Staff’s profile is on companies to catch up – we have been into there are similarities to what our players are the rise. “We have wonderful players and low compression since 1997 and we are still looking for from a competitive advantage, people on the Wilson Staff team and I am the global leader in low compression golf 5Low Exceptional Shade & Drought Tolerance whether it be on the court (tennis), at the committed to continuous improvement balls.” The Superior plate (baseball), or on the course (golf). I can which is why we added Brendan Steele and Of the most memorable aspects of Wilson Fine-Bladed with Vertical Leaf Posture tell you that light weight is here to stay as Troy Merritt to go along with Padraig Har- Staff is its achievement in winning majors – 5 61 in total with no other brand in sight as a We are able to measure this through challenger yet. Commenting on this record, Fine Textured 5Vigorous Root, Stolon & Rhizome Production extensive consumer testing and I Clarke said, “Majors are a very special part of this great game and we are building our 5Low Cost Maintenance Turfgrass believe our right light technology was rec- brand and tour staff to put us in position to be at the elite level of the game. Nothing is Zoysia Grass ognized on Golf Digest’s Hot List Gold more elite than a major win in golf and we are 5Available Only Through Licensed Providers excited to continue to build on our industry Awards in the Driver/ Irons category and in leading 61 wins in the near future.” With 2016 around the corner, the Wilson the Silver Awards on Fairway Metals/Hybrid. Staff team is excited about what it has In order to be an innovative brand it requires in store for 2016. Looking ahead, Clarke exclaimed, “I think the quote ‘most successful a willingness to go against the norm when people are people who take risks - calcu- lated risks - but nevertheless, risks, sums up the product gives the golfer better results.” our outlook of the future.” A very apt and fitting attitude which embodies the focus to continue innovating and producing the best golf equipment for consumers at all skill lev- els. Wilson Staff is well on its way to booting up on “Version 3.0”.

Amazing Playability & Ball Lie s Salt Tolerant s AAlmostlmost ZeZeroro IInsectnsect & DiDiseasesease ProblemsProbllems ((NoNNo CChemicals)hhemiicalls) Low Maintenance such as Less Mowing s Up to 75% Less Fertilizer & Water Requirements!

To Be Used on the 2016 Olympics Course in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil s Great Colour & Striping Ability Can Selectively Control Weeds with a Variety of Herbicides sLow Inputs of Mowing/Fuel, Fertilizer, Chemicals & Water = Better Bottom Line

Available from Thai International Turf Farms & Sports Turf Solutions [email protected] | www.sportsturfsolutions.com Tel: +66-25403180 Fax: +66-25403181 32 33 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Footgolf ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

Hong Kong and Mainland stars team

Well, now that we have come clean and have acknowledged >OLU(ZPHU.VSMÄYZ[^YV[LHIV\[¸MVV[- that the hybrid game is here to stay, let us set out to see how the NVSM¹ZVTL[OYLL`LHYZHNV[OPZ^YP[LY game has caught on. One report states that Footgolf is growing fast. How fast? We understand that in the United States alone, ^OVIYVRL[OLZ[VY`ZJVɈLKHUKYPKP- footgolf courses have surged from about 30 in 2013 to well over J\SLK[OLIYHUKUL^O`IYPKNHTL3PRL 300 this year. There is no doubt about it – footgolf is growing and it is growing THU`ZRLW[PJZ(ZPHU.VSMNH]LUVOVWLas a sport with more players signing on to experience this fun sport. MVYZ\JJLZZHUKSHILSSLKP[HMHKKLZ- Tenniel Chu, vice-chairman of the Mission Hills Group, the man spear-heading the promotion of footgolf in China told Asian Golf [PULK[VZPTWS`MHKLH^H` that the world’s largest golf resort is viewing footgolf as a “new business model”. If one is to interpret his statement, Mission Hills is -HZ[[YHJRMVY^HYK[VHUKN\LZZ focused on growing footgolf as a serious business and if the group has allocated the use of the Nicklaus course at its Shenzhen facility ^OH[&;OLKHYUO`IYPKPZNYV^PUNHUK in China for footgolf, it becomes very apparent that bucks are being NYV^[OPZL_WVULU[PHS[VZH`[OLSLHZ[ put behind this business initiative. An Editorial footnote: When the lords and gate- keepers of the game first looked at footgolf, they viewed it t all becomes terribly significant when the world’s largest as a much needed shot-in-the-arm and held out the hope golf resort, the Mission Hills Group of China opened up its that this hybrid will introduce much needed new players to wide, accommodating arms to embrace footgolf and bring it the game of golf. With no statistics to back this, one can only into its fold of golf businesses. This was serious validation by deduce that footgolf’s popularity is based on its own unique a major force in golf! When Mission Hills anoints footgolf, it’s appeal and not as a dragnet to introduce new players to time to sit up and take notice. golf. We think that footgolf will experience meteoric growth I with little or no crumbs left behind for the golf industry to A FootGolf footnote: Although we vehemently at- tacked this new sport, we have to point out that as geriatrics, pick up. Get the message? we were envious and jealous of those who could slip into a Back to the report – “FootGolf has acquired a good and growing pair of sports shorts, jersey and football boots and go play support base in China and based on current trends, it has a very footgolf! If only we were young and fit again! You can bet good future in China – the potential for growth is huge,” declared your bottom dollar that we’d get out in a New York minute Chu who is the prime moving force behind the China Footgolf As- and go for a kick-about! sociation. Chu is so bullish about the future of footgolf in China that

34 35 ASIAN GOLF Mr. Tenniel Chu with the cheerleaders SPECIAL FEATURE Footgolf ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

Cheers for AGA Chairman Gilbert Lam’s Hole in One. Tenniel, Billy Prize presentation – Tenniel Chu,Shen Rong ,Chen Yujun (Winner), Aerial photo of cheerleaders-AGA stars and Tenniel Chu Fernando Iturbe (A grade UEFA coach), Tenniel Chu and Tan Binliang Lau, Gilbert Lam, Cindy Lee and Chan Yee Ming celebrate. Xu Deli, former Chairman of Guangdong Golf Association

he is already planning on a team rep- whoever finishes in the fewest number Footgolf is just like resenting China and Hong Kong at the of strokes. Where it is different to golf, 2016 Footgolf World Cup in Argentina. and similar to football, is that instead golf in many ways. “FootGolf has proved to be hugely of hitting a golf ball you kick a football. popular with footballers. China has Unlike golf, Footgolf is easy to learn You play on a golf course, 26 million footballers and 300 million and anyone can play. It combines the there are eighteen holes, football spectators and fans, the most excitement of both sports. And this is of any country in the world. It catches what concerns the golf purist. Can and and the winner is whoever such a large demographic, so it is just will the growing popularity of footgolf a question of waiting for the right spin off a few new players for golf? We finishes in the fewest num- time to get involved with it,” said Chu. gave Mr. Chu the final say – “I don’t be- “I knew it would take off with lieve that golf will be cannibalized by ber of strokes. Where it is adults, but we started looking at how footgolf – I believe that each game has the sport could continue to grow and its own strengths and it is my belief different to golf, and simi- grow. And if you get the youngsters that both games can co-exist.” involved you’re going to still be going As a parting shot, we will urge all lar to football, is that in- in 10, 20, 30 years’ time, and you’ll be golf course operators in Asia to watch continuing to build, develop and prog- development at Mission Hills in China. stead of hitting a golf ball ress,” Chu added. The group is creating a new business Footgolf is just like golf in many pathway for golf course owners to you kick a football.” ways. You play on a golf course, there add a new and hopefully sustainable are eighteen holes, and the winner is revenue stream.

Group Photo- A total of 42 two-man teams battled for honours on the historic Jack Nicklaus-designed Fernando Iturbe shows football golf skills to teenagers World Cup Course at Mission Hills, the pioneer and innovator in China.

36 37 ASIAN GOLF A GOLF Battle FIT FOR ONLY

THEWe knew that thisBEST! headline would grab your attention!

Finally club managers get to play and compete in a this tournament. To qualify, players tournament all their own. need to register as delegates to attend the Summit and there are 144 Come and Do Battle The Asia Pacific Golf Group in conjunction with the slots available. staging of the 2015 Asia Pacific Golf Summit will be organizing the Inaugural Asia-Pacific Inter-Club Entry will be on a first come first served basis Amongst Your Peers! Challenge Tournament. It will be played with two- and a two-man team from each club can register man teams drawn from clubs within the Asia Pacific on-line through APGS official website at footprint for the coveted Le Van Kiem Inter-Club www.golfconference.org or email Alice Ho at Trophy. alice@asiapacificgolfgroup.com or call STEP 1: STEP 2: STEP 3: +65 63232800 for more details. This tournament is all about good, clean fun and more REGISTER AS TWO-MAN TEAM 144 SLOTS importantly, it is about networking. DELEGATES FROM EACH CLUB AVAILABLE The tournament will be run on October 14. First Come First Serve Basis The venue will be the Orchid Country Club, an award- winning 27-hole golf course in Singapore that has played host to a variety of golf tournaments including the Asian Tour. There is no entry fee to participate in Get to Know Them and Have Fun in the Process! SPECIAL FEATURE Professional Golf Tournaments ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

Malaysia does not get a fair shake for what it does for the professional game of golf. In fact, it often gets over-shadowed by countries like China and Thailand when it comes to exposure and coverage in international media, especially the golf media. This is disappointing especially when you consider that it is about the only country within the Southeast Asian basin where professional tournaments witness the active involvement and participation of local corporations, government agencies and the national golf association (it must be pointed out that the Malaysian Golf Association is perhaps the most active amongst national golf associations in the region).

40 41 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Professional Golf Tournaments ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

ggressive promotions like what Malaysia is The latter event which takes its name after the highly successful Maybank needs to be patted on its back for stepping up to the we want this tournament to be an important staging point for our engaging in should be recognized and promoted island nation which is its home, is back after a three year hiatus. plate and forking out the big investment of US$3 million for prize professional golfers who can represent the country in Rio,” said Tan by all serious stake-holders in golf. Those who are While the tournament is back on the Asian professional tour money. This is what the professional game needs in the region to Sri Dato Megat Zaharuddin, chairman of Maybank. familiar with that country’s flag-ship event, the calendar, it’s not something to get excited about. After having grow. Cash-rich Asian multinationals have to come forward to sup- He went on to add, “Our considerations to have Maybank’s Maybank Malaysian Open would be pleased to worked its way to becoming Asia’s richest national golf tourna- port and help grow the game of golf and what Maybank has done own Championship are to ensure that our objectives in projecting know that it will receive a massive boost for the ment under the banner of its last sponsor, Barclays Bank, the is a classic example of corporate support for golf and it is simply our brand to our stakeholders worldwide and to support our com- A2016 edition. resuscitated event is back with a total of a “minimum prize purse spectacular! munity aspirations can be sustained in the best possible way.” The event, a hugely popular professional tournament in Ma- of US$1 million”. Maybank has been involved with the Malaysian Open for a de- According to Megat he expects to reach out to golfers within laysia and the neighbouring countries, will see the size of its prize Last held in Singapore in 2013, the “new look” Singapore cade and in that time, its commitment to golf has helped raise the the region and said, “With the Maybank Malaysian Open we will money bloat to a staggering US$3 million for next year’s clash. As Open will be sponsored by Sumitomo-Mitsui Banking Corpora- standard of amateurs and professional golfers in the country. And also be nurturing budding ASEAN golfing talents by providing a national tournaments go, it tops the chart as the “richest national tion and will be titled the SMBC Singapore Open. During its with the staging of the 2016 tournament, Maybank has again ex- fixed number of slots to talented golfers in the ASEAN countries.” golf tournament” in the region. heyday, the now defunct Barclays Singapore Open was a premier tended its commitment to see the largest number of professional Besides being home to the richest national golf tourna- Scheduled to be staged in the Malaysian capital city of Kuala event even by global standards with a purse of US$6 million. Malaysian golfers qualifying and participating in the tournament. ment, Malaysia also plays host to the Lumpur in February 2016, it will tower over the US$1 million dollar Now that Malaysia’s initiatives in the hosting of profes- “Next year will also be a milestone year for golf as it will be CIMB Classic which is a full-fledged Singapore Open which is scheduled to be held from January 28-31. sional golf tournaments have been put into proper perspective, featured as an event at the 2016 Olympics for the first time, and PGA Tour tournament. The next

Next year will also be a milestone year for golf as it will be featured as an event at the 2016 Olympics for the first time, and we want this tournament to be an impor- tant staging point for our pro- fessional golfers who can represent the country in Rio.” – Tan Sri Dato Megat Zaharuddin, chairman of Maybank

MAYBANK MALAYSIAN OPEN: KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - APRIL 20: Lee Westwood of England celebrates with the trophy after winning the Final round of the 2014 Maybank Malaysian Open at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club on 42 43 ASIAN GOLF April 20, 2014 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. SPECIAL FEATURE Professional Golf Tournaments

2014 Sime Darby LPGA We think that everybody who is in- terested to see golf grow, should stand up and salute Malaysia for showing its leadership in helping to stage world-class professional tournaments.” 2014 CIMB Classic

instalment of this star-studded tournament will be staged in Kuala Lumpur in October and the tournament boasts a prize-kitty of US$7 million! Another star-studded world class tourna- ment hosted by Malaysia is the Sime Darby LPGA tournament which is now in its sixth year. The prize money for this event stands at US$2 million. We think that everybody who is interested to see golf grow, should stand up and salute Malaysia for showing its leadership in helping to stage world-class professional tournaments. Let us not forget also how the nation and its golf stake-holders work with these professional event promoters to run coaching programmes for a select group of promising young stars and clinics to help expose the game of golf to a wider audience. Well done Malaysia! You have set a glowing example of what can be done to help grow golf. Continue to be the beacon of hope in Asia! Nominated for "Best Golf Resort in Asia" Asian Golf Awards 2015

44 45 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE A Tribute ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

ow refreshing it is for professional golf to finally have a super-star without blemishes. Someone who can help project a new image for golf. The game has finally rid itself of a fallen hero whose name has not only become tarnished but also disgraced. The pro-temH custodian of the throne, whilst a nice kid, was totally colourless. He just did not possess the star qualities to transform him into the sort of idol golf needs, especially at this stage of the evolution of the game. However, all this changed on August 17, 2015 when a 22-year old from Texas ascended to golf’s loftiest throne to claim the prestigious and sought after title as the World’s Number One golfer! Jordan Spieth personifies everything that is good and wholesome about golf and while he has been on the ascendency in recent years, his pleasant demeanour and great family values is most definitely going to get golf all the respect that it so rightfully deserves. And let us not forget his awesome game, his natural talent and his fighting qualities. All distinctive qualities that symbolize the mark of a true champion. Let a new era begin!

46 47 ASIAN GOLF EQUIPMENT FOCUS Callaway Big Bertha ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

he elves have been very busy lately at the house that the legendary Ely Callaway built. It’s fascinat- ing to note that since he set up Callaway Golf in 1984, the company has led through the creation of highly innovative golf products. It is perhaps best known and recognized for the Big Bertha Driver, a product and a brand that was first introduced to the world in 1991. At the time, its design was con- sidered highly modern and a radical departure from older drivers as it was crafted entirely of stainless steel. Since the introduction of the original Big Bertha, Callaway has introduced further clubs and lines of clubs with similar names, such as the “Great Big Bertha”, the “Biggest Big Bertha”, and titanium versions of the clubs. In 2003, they introduced the “Great Big Bertha II,” and in 2004, the “Big Bertha 454.” It was not until 2013 when the company brought back this successful brand with the launch of two new multi-material, adjustable drivers with the Big Bertha name, the Big Bertha and Big Bertha Alpha.

48 49 ASIAN GOLF EQUIPMENT FOCUS Callaway Big Bertha ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

he latest additions are the “Great Big Bertha” driver Both the new Big Bertha models feature the next-genera- and the “Big Bertha Alpha 816 Double Black Dia- mond” driver. According to a Callaway spokesman. tion R*MOTO Technology which provides the structure for The Great Big Bertha features a low centre of gravity and high MOI to deliver distance with forgiveness. a thinner face, leading to high ball speeds on balls struck any- “The light, fast, stable chassis is the key to generat- ingT higher clubhead speed, and with the perfect combination of where on the face.” aerodynamic shaping with multi-material construction, it comes with all the bells and whistles to set the club configuration to suit „ Flip it up or down depending on where their normal impact forged hyper speed face cup is designed to achieve high ball speeds your swing type,” the spokesman explained. location is on the face. for great distance on centre hits and off-centre hits. “The head sizes The Big Bertha Alpha 816 Double Black Diamond driver „ More weight behind the impact location equals more ball are larger than that of typical fairway woods and that extra surface is said to deliver “extreme distance” and Callaway claims speed and more distance. area leads to a higher MOI for more forgiveness,” according to the that it has been designed with the “expert player” spokesman. Callaway has also added its legendary Warbird Sole, in mind. “The Big Bertha Alpha 816 Double Black Both the new Big Bertha models feature the next-generation which makes the club easy to hit from a variety of lies with a mid- Diamond Driver is built for high-calibre players R*MOTO Technology which provides the structure for a thinner face, launching trajectory. The Great Big Bertha fairway wood range also looking for the ultimate combination of extreme leading to high ball speeds on balls struck anywhere on the face. offers the Heavenwood (20.5-degree loft, 43-inch shaft) and Divine distance and shot-shaping control in a sleek, The Great Big Bertha’s adjustable perimeter weighting adds stability Nine (24-degree, 42-inch shaft) clubs to help tighten a golfer’s traditional shape,” the spokesman said. and forgiveness moving the weight to the point on the clubhead dispersion. Golfers looking to fill distance gaps in their bags will also The all-new dual distance chambers that delivers greater dispersion control based on a golfer’s swing find these clubs to be the perfect solutions. allow Callaway’s gravity core to work characteristics plus virtually unlimited draw and fade bias options— The Big Bertha Alpha 816 fairway woods are said to be Cal- as a distance turbo charger. This is a all without sacrificing forgiveness. laway’s most advanced fairway woods, designed for better players highly innovative development and With the Big Berha Aplha 816 Double Black Diamond, Callaway who desire shot-shaping control and tour-style distance. Good play- here’s how it works: engineers designed it with a deeper face, a more traditional shape ers will love the adjustable centre of gravity (CG) weights (3g and and a low centre of gravity to reduce spin, along with just the right Simply choose to put the 16g) that lets a golfer to determine the ball flight desired. “Simply „ amount of forgiveness and workability. The shape of the crown, gravity core in either the move the weight forward when you want a lower spin, flatter ball the open face angle, and the matte black finish with no distrac- left or right chamber flight, and move it back for more forgiveness and a higher launch tions are all designed to suit the eyes of better players’ as they for a draw or neutral - however you set the CG, the forged hyper speed face cup will stand over the ball. setting. generate ball speed on centre and off-centre shots,” the spokesman Both the new drivers come with matching fairway woods. For pointed out. A modern shape with a slightly larger head offers more the Great Big Bertha, Callaway reports that it has come up with new MOI than one would expect out of an elite player’s fairway wood fairway woods that deliver the ultimate in forgiveness and control. A and the sole design provides control from a variety of lies.

50 51 ASIAN GOLF GOLF EQUIPMENT MIURA KM 008 ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

The fact that it has taken a while for the debut of the KM 008 is proof in itself that Miura sticks rigidly to its policy of releasing new products only if it is an improvement over its predecessor.”

ne of the reasons why the new putter has grain structure, with similarly tight manufacturing tolerances. been so well received by the market is “Miura-san stands by his statement that the putter has been directly attributable to the fact that Miura is a designed for players who are seeking the very best,” says Bill brand that does not follow industry trends to Holowaty, Miura’s executive vice president of Product Strategies. release new products on a regular basis. “This toe-weighted beauty confirms that it’s possible to match Led by the legendary Japanese master looks with performance. The milled face is extremely forgiving Ocraftsman Katsuhiro Miura, popularly referred to as the man and produces a strike that transmits to the feel, distance control with the “hands of God”, the new putter is the KM 008. This and in achieving the truest of rolls from reduced skid. We invite stylish putter is a replacement to the old standard, the KM 350 you to discover what we deem to be perfection on the green.” which was retired in 2014. Based on launch pictures of the product, the absence of The fact that it has taken a while for the debut of the KM alignment lines and dots is very apparent. It is also sort of old 008 is proof in itself that Miura keeps rigidly to its policy of school in terms of design but the face of the putter looks awe- releasing new products only if it is an improvement over its some. predecessor. Miura is a specialist club maker renowned for its broad line Prior to its retirement, the KM 350 (small blade putter) of forged irons, wedges, drivers, fairway woods and hybrids. ranked amongst the most popular in its range. Master crafts- All Miura clubs are custom fitted by authorized Miura dealer/ man Katsuhiro has spent a good deal of time designing the KM fitters with each individual golfer getting not only properly 008 which is the next generation putter from Miura. fitted clubs, but a partner in his or her game. Miura dealers are The KM 008 does not come cheap and it has hit the North famous for service after the sale and continuing relationships American market with a suggested price tag of US$450. Like the with players they fit, from informal discussions about equip- KM 350, the KM 008 is forged from a single billet of soft carbon ment, practice, and technique to hands-on monitoring of loft, steel. The Miura forging process creates the industry’s tightest lie, weight and all the crucial golf club metrics.

52 53 ASIAN GOLF LONG THANH GOLF RESORT, HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM Come and Be Part of the Region’s Only Total Family Golf Event ... The 2015 Asia Pacific Father and Son Golf Tournament! Entry fee is set at US$450 per player and this will include: NOVEMBER 1 & 2, 2015 „ Daily two-way transfer from the Sheraton Saigon Hotel to the golf course. „ Lunch, refreshment and dinner on both days. „ Prizes and goodie bags. „ One practice round on October 31.

The Father and Son Tournament is designed to promote greater family involvement in golf and clubs are encouraged to enter club teams to participate in what promises to be a fun tournament!

In Celebration Of Fathers And Sons Asia Pacific Father and Son Golf Tournament The tournament is open to any combination is back again. Fathers and sons or direct of family members – father, daughter, uncle/ related members of a family will do battle to aunty and nephew/niece. This arrangement ONLINE Registration is open at: ORGANISED BY: LONG THANH GOLF RESORT see who emerges as the best of the best in provides for a wider family involvement and http://tinyurl.com/fsgt2015 the region. participation.

This prestigious tournament will be staged on The winning team will walk away with the November 1 & 2, 2015 and the host venue is Asia Pacific Father and Son Trophy presented DOWNLOAD PDF – RULES & REGULATIONS: the award winning Long Thanh Golf Resort in by Vietnamese philanthropist Le Van Kiem. http://tinyurl.com/fsgt-rr2015 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. For enquiries, please contact Alice Ho at [email protected] or call +65-63232800 SPECIAL FEATURE Cobra-PUMA Golf ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

My belief is that we The big buzz amongst golf circles, especially those who are the power-brokers of the game, seems to be focused on how the game can pick up a head of steam and grow. need to work hard This has become a mantra so much so one wonders if these “movers and shakers” are to make golf more fun and really sincere about growing the game or if it is just plain lip service. Anyway, is growing inclusive. If we do that, [OLNHTL[OLYLHSJOHSSLUNL&-VY\TWHNLZVUNVSMMLH[\YLH[VUVMKPɈLYLU[VWPUPVUZ on what the game needs to grow and one critic holds the PGA accountable for its an- there are a ton more tiquated approach which he thinks is the cause why no one from younger demograph- golfers out there – more ics identify with the game any longer. By this critic’s contention, “anything the PGA can than we can even do to keep golf boring as hell, and they’re on it .... the game’s leadership is aspiring to make it as boring as humanly possible and they’re succeeding beyond expectations! imagine.” – Robert Phillion “Truly outspoken and declared with conviction and a huge dose of testicular fortitude!

56 57 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Cobra-PUMA Golf ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

hat is the thinking of FUN – they personify everything that stands tion of players. some of the major for youthful vitality and vibrance, not to In a Facebook rant, Westwood opened It needs to have the stigma taken away industry players like mention the top-shelf game that they both up: “Golf is absolutely not doing enough. equipment manufac- bring to golf. It needs to be promoted better – the R&A, from it that it’s an old man’s game and turers? Do they think While we are on Phillion’s call for golf to the USGA, the PGA Tour, the European Tour, enough is being be made more FUN and inclusive, we would the Asian Tour, the South African Tour need that it’s for the ‘toffs’ if you want to call it that. doneW to grow the game? Asian Golf reached like to bring in top professional golfer Lee to do more to encourage young players to out to the spunky 51 year old President of Westwood who has a thing or two to say take up the game.” It needs to be more available to the man in Cobra PUMA Golf, Robert Phillion for his about the current state of the game. The Not known as someone to be outspo- take and this was how he reacted: “No, I former world number one has warned that ken or controversial, Westwood said, “It the street …. golf needs to be made more don’t!” Speak about being boldly emphatic golf needs a major overhaul of its image needs to have the stigma taken away from and a real scrooge with words – a truly and format if it is to attract the next genera- it that it’s an old man’s game and that it’s available to everybody.” – Lee Westwood direct and blunt response from a man who is deeply entrenched in helping to keep golf exciting, vibrant and relevant to all ages. Phillion is a chief executive whom you Young stars like Fowler and can’t dislike. He does not mince his words and he tells it like he sees it! Perhaps the Thompson possess a style and youngest top honcho amongst the major equipment manufacturers, he feels very swagger that brings attention to both passionately about the future of golf. In the COBRA and PUMA Golf brands, es- a conversation with Asian Golf, he said, “I think we all have a responsibility to grow pecially among young people. “They the game and its reach. My belief is that we need to work hard to make golf more fun both have huge loyal fan bases who and inclusive. If we do that, there are a ton more golfers out there – more than we can want to wear what they are wearing and even imagine.” Phillion should know a thing or two play the equipment they are playing …. about FUN in golf. Just look at how Cobra- PUMA integrates fun into what it does – its it’s about youthfulness and swagger. We golf clubs, especially the drivers, epitomize FUN with the colours used on the club are all about making golf Fun.” heads. Check out the brand’s ap- parel – it’s all about FUN and a golfer attired in PUMA apparel is almost always a stand-out on either a professional tournament or in a normal, run-of-the- for the ‘toffs’ if you want to call it that. It products that have style and an edge, we Young stars like Fowler and Thompson mill weekend hacker’s needs to be more available to the man in are trying to change the way consumers possess a style and swagger that brings at- round at a club. the street …. golf needs to be made more play. It’s about having performance enhanc- tention to both the COBRA and PUMA Golf Cobra-PUMA’s key available to everybody.” ing equipment and having fun. We also try brands, especially among young people. brand ambassadors Well, Cobra-PUMA’s Phillion is right to bring our game enjoyment to life not “They both have huge loyal fan bases who like Rickie Fowler and on the money. Change has got to hap- only in products, but also in our market- want to wear what they are wearing and Lexi Thompson are also pen and if the “voice of the people” keeps ing efforts, our players, our partnerships play the equipment they are playing …. it’s living showcases for getting louder and more demanding, the and even in our company culture. It’s who about youthfulness and swagger. We are all gate-keepers will have to change! And with we are and what we do,” Phillion declared about making golf Fun.” leading brands like Cobra-PUMA pushing emphatically. No session with Phillion can be for change, it’s got to have some effect It has to be noted that Phillion is cred- complete without him speaking to his eventually. ited with bringing the Cobra brand onto the range of innovative products so we quite Now that the case for change has been main stage of golf after it was acquired by naturally had to stick him with a question made, let’s get back to the conversation PUMA in 2010. Up till that point, the brand that probed the brand’s performance in with Phillion. When Asian Golf first had a had been languishing in “equipment limbo” 2015 which is proving to be a tough year for session with him in 2014, he had a firm and Phillion’s panache and swagger that the golf industry and this is what he said: conviction that Cobra-PUMA was hell-bent he is known for, breathed life into the old “It’s been a very solid first half for COBRA on injecting huge doses of fun into golf brand. PUMA GOLF – we have technology-rich, through innovative products, apparel and “There is no doubt that players such as performance-enhancing products, strong accessories and that conviction has not Rickie and Lexi help to move the needle in marketing messages and great brand changed one bit. “Definitely. By providing golf and this brings a new, younger demo- ambassadors.” He is ecstatic about how high-performing, high-tech, innovative graphic to the game,” Phillion explained. Cobra-PUMA’s FLY-Z family has done incred- SPECIAL FEATURE Cobra-PUMA Golf

ibly well, especially in numerous independent surveys. “Our R&D team works hard each year to develop new products that help golfers of all levels improve their game – and the Fly-Z family does just that. The Fly-Z driver is one of the most forgiving drivers currently on the market – yet it doesn’t sacrifice distance. That’s extremely important for the majority of golfers. The best measure of this can be seen in By providing high-performing, the three significant victories notched up this year by Fowler and Thompson. “We couldn’t high-tech, innovative products be more proud to celebrate these wins with him, and we know we’ll see many more from that have style and an edge, we are try- Rickie in the future and Lexi is great for our brand and even better for the game of golf. ing to change the way consumers play. We feel equally as strong about our other players as well,” beamed a proud Phillion It’s about having performance enhanc- affectionately known around Cobra-PUMA’s office as the “big cheese”. ing equipment and having fun. We also Phillion is a man on a mission and what he has done for the brand in the short time that try to bring our game enjoyment to life it has been under his charge, is nothing short of being impressive. In his parting shot, he not only in products, but also in our declared, “I believe there’s more opportunity for our brands than ever before, and it’s our marketing efforts, our players, our part- intention to play offense in this market where nerships and even in our company cul- we believe there are many question marks.”

Next month’s issue of Asian Golf will feature a major ture. It’s who we are and what we do.” review on the company’s latest clubs – the King Ltd.

60 61 ASIAN GOLF GAME IMPROVEMENT ISSUE 180 SEPTEMBER 2015

The Presidents Cup is a series of men’s golf matches between a team representing the United States and an International Team representing thehe resrestt ooff ththee worworldld minus Europe..

s a preview too next month’s Presidentsidents Cup, I wantedd to share this timelessmeless tip to help improvemprove Ayour understanding of the ggolfolf swing! This is one of the most clclassicalassical golf tips that I have used withth stustu-- dents because it simply worksrks and it’s very easy to understand. Boxing is a huge sport inn Thailand so it is only fittingto to use use the boxing glove to demonstratenstrate to students how the golf club sets on the backswing in order to makee an eeffectiveffective f orwardforward swingswing.. It’s important that a golferfer realizes that settinsettingg the ggolfolf club properly in the backswing willwill assist with gaining power and speed. Using a boxing glove, I likelike to demonstratedemonstrate a sisimplemple punch-punch- ing motion – taking the golflf gglovelove back and forth. The wrist set will happenen naturally iiff you keep your fforearmsorearms as relaxed as possible. If youou focus on turning youryour shoulders early in your backswing, studentsudents will find the wrist set up much easier to do. Many players fifindnd the the earl earlyy setset easiereasier toto useuse bebe-- cause it helps the club feel lighter,lighter, thus easier to control. I like to have students mmakeake swinswingsgs in a mirror and notice on the backswing that the clubb will set, creatincreatingg an ananglegle position. Now, when the backswing iss complete, a forward swinswingg will aal-l- low the golf club to swing too the target, the body reacts to the golf club swinging and a nicece follow-throufollow-throughgh is cocompleted!mpleted! Again, take it back like yyouou would be makimakingng a coil for a punch. Then, swing the clubub to the targettarget to follow-through.follow-through. You will notice and feel a veryery effective and powerful move in the swing. Trust me! If you can relateate a boxing punch to the golf swing, and visualize the correctionrrection motion, youryour shots will be more consistent! You can do it!

ABOUTABOUT TTONYONY MEE MEECHAICHAI

BornBorn aandnd brobroughtught u upp i nin t hethe Uni Unitedted St States,ates, Ton Tonyy M eecMeechaihai wo nwon his hisfirs tfirst golf togolfurn tournamentament at the atag thee o fage nine of. Hnine.e He began working in the golf I hope everyone gets a chance to play more golf this month! If you are a 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 fan, I’m sure you will make time to watch The Presidents Cup this year. The 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 Presidents Cup is going to be a great match play event, just like a “boxing are in conjunction with international institutions throughout the world. For further information, please visit www.tmggroupasia.com or match!” I hope both teams are ready to compete! email to [email protected] www.tmggroupasia.com

62 63 ASIAN GOLF COBRA HISSES THE LOUDEST! CONSISTENTLY VOTED AS he KING is back! COBRA has just launched a truly revo- lutionary driver which it has aptly named the KING LTD. Pre-launch information tells us that COBRA is reinvent- THE BEST COURSE IN THAILAND ing a classic while at the same time redefining the driver category for better players. It is not a replacement for its current line-up – The KING LTD is a brand new flagship offering. Check out Asian Golf’s comprehensive review of the entire family of the KING LTD range which will include driver, woods and irons.

TAYLORMADE’S NEW BAG OF TRICKS REVEALED! ake note all fans of TaylorMade – the company Owned and managed by The Peninsula Hotels and often voted as possessing the “Best Clubhouse in Asia” is all set to bounce back with some exciting new products that initial reports say will knock and “Best Course in Thailand”, Thai Country Club is less than 45 minutes from downtown Bangkok and is the socks off all golfers! Knowing TaylorMade and having renowned for having the friendliest staff of professionals in the Kingdom committed to providing the followed their production development programmes, what Ultimate Golfing Experience. we are hearing is not to be discounted. Expect something that will raise the bar. It is all about TaylorMade getting ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 181 right back on the fast track. For registered guests of The Peninsula Bangkok, We are happy to arrange a tee-time at a substantial reduction from our normal visitor’s rate. Extend your business trip in Bangkok, or book a get-away golfing package. When it comes to exclusive golfing with impeccable hospitality – we play off scratch.

he Asia Pacific’s top conference on golf will open in Singa- pore this month. The longest running conference in the industry, the Asia Pacific Golf Summit will create history this year with a brand new platform for a conference. Rather than subject- ing delegates to one-way monologues, delegates will take the floor 1997 1998 and engage in lively and focused Town-Hall style debates on business Winner: Tiger Woods Winner: Vijay Singh trends, challenges, opportunities and aspirations for the industry, espe- VOLVO MASTERS VOLVO MASTERS VOLVO MASTERS VOLVO MASTERS cially the golf club industry. It will be a game-changer with delegates ASIA ASIA ASIA ASIA taking charge of their own conference! APGS 2015 will also launch the 2005 2006 2007 2008 Club Management Association of Asia’s highly revolutionary e-Univer- Winner: Shiv Kapur Winner: Thongchai Jaidee Winner: Prayad Marksaeng Winner: Lam Chih Bing sity on-line learning platform for the club industry in Asia and the first- ever Asian Golf Profiles Lifestyle and Demographic Research report. 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] subscribe to Asian Golf – Asia’s most powerful golfing voice! www.asiapacificgolfgroup.com Bangkok, Thailand