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Apr - May 2018

Apr - May 2018

Apr - May 2018

APR - MAY 2018 OB & LIFESTYLE 1 FA_Materi CVP OBGolf.pdf 1 1/18/18 2:10 PM

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2 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 3 PUBLISHER

e will be witnessing the Major tournaments over the next four months. Winning Advisor any of the prestigious Major titles is certainly a bigger deal than a regular tour Jimmy Masrin W win. World No.1 is just one of the top tier players on a personal George Djuhari quest to add more major titles to his repertoire. We’ve put together a rundown of his story and some of the other contenders in this edition. Publisher Another exciting topic we’re talking about is the return of after his eight- Liza Sutrisno month absence. He’s back playing in professional tournaments, and despite the fact that Editor we’re yet to see the same form he showed in his domination days, his appearances have Yulius Martinus still drawn massive attention from the media and golf fans. The curious crowds are hoping to witness a ‘comeback’ of golf’s legendary former No. 1. Developmental Editor In order to support the ‘Road to the Olympics 2020’, OB Golf has proudly Amelia Moriarty presented the inaugural OB Golf Invitational at Gunung Geulis Golf and Country Club. This tournament is one of four events which are being held Graphic Designer in this year. By holding the event, we're opening the path for Indonesian Vickirio Firsta F. professional golfers to progress to the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Tournaments on the Subekti Febriansyah and the ADT give our local players opportunities to earn Official World Golf Marketing & Sales Director Ranking points, which is key to raising their ranks and qualifying for the Olympics. The OB Merry Kwan Golf Invitational is a step in the right direction and we hope more Indonesian companies [email protected] will join us in supporting ways to bring our national players to represent our beloved “merah-putih” at the Olympics. Marketing & Sales Lina Mongan [email protected] Have fun reading!

Liza Sutrisno

APR - MAY 2018 Contributors :

Stephen Moriarty Dustin Johnson Academy Director LGA Pondok Indah Getty Images Sam Filipczak Instructor LGA Indonesia

OB Golf & Lifestyle Magazine is published bi-monthly by PT Visi Prima Golf. Articles & features, including illustrations can only be produced with the permission of the Editor. We are not responsible for the safe custody or return of any solicited or unsolicited material, whether articles, photographs, transparencies, artwork, or computer discs.

4 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE contentAPRs - MAY 2018

8 QUEST FOR THE MAJOR This April marks the beginning of Major season. Over the next five months, the world’s best players engage in the battle to secure themselves one of the most coveted titles in golf.

12 BREAKING THE DROUGHT Dustin Johnson is not alone in his quest for a second major. Also seeking the same goal is a top Australian player who proved he could be tough competition for Johnson with a recent victory at the

16 TIGER’S MAGNETIC PULL Two big wins for two big names but all eyes were on another name. An even bigger one. and Rory McIlroy seemed unperturbed by the presence of Tiger Woods at the Valspar Championship and Invitational, each securing 20 RETURN TO THE CIRCLE themselves another PGA Tour title. Three major tournaments have put three old faces back in the spotlight. Each has waited a long time to get back into the champion’s circle. And if there’s one thing to be learned from this, it’s that one should never give up.

22 OB GOLF INVITATIONAL THE GAME FIRST PRO TITLE AT THE INAUGURATION 40 HOW TO GAIN GREATER The inaugural OB Golf Invitational DISTANCE was played over 54 holes The one common goal most golfers due to inclement weather share is the wish and desire to hit the forcing the cancellation of the ball greater distances. Like all quick final round. Japanese player, tips and fixes, distance gains can be Shohei Hasegawa, won his first very short lived. One proven way to professional title on the East gain greater club speed at impact Course at Gunung Geulis Golf & is to make sure you are using the

Photography : Getty Images | AP : Getty Images Photography Country Club. ground correctly in your swing.

6 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 7 The 1st Series of the 2ND SERIES OF THE IGT 44 48 Indonesian Golf Tour Preparation for Next- New Spirit for Level Event Indonesian Players As Danny Masrin took home the The 2018 Indonesian Golf Tour title of the 2nd Series of the IGT, (IGT) has begun. The first stage of all of the players gained something the yearly voyage of from the tournament: the chance professional golf circuit took place to test out their skills and check at Jababeka Golf & Country Club. out the course condition ahead of It was the first of a series of eight the ADT event being staged on the IGT tournaments before the Grand same course just a week later. Final this year.

52 OB GOLF INVITATIONAL PRO-AM ADT Opening Event In addition to organizing the OB Golf Invitational - a US$70,000 ADT event – OB Golf also hosted the Pro-Am match. Through this Pro-Am tournament, partners of OB Golf had the chance to pick up some tips and tricks by playing alongside the pros.

66 LABUAN BAJO The Gateway to Komodo From a small fishing town, Labuan Bajo has grown into a burgeoning tourist spot. People flock to the Packages: once-quiet area from around the globe hoping to get a glimpse the world-famous Komodo dragons. Four Person Express Clinic Eight Person Express Clinic Aimpoint Clinic FULL DAY CLINIC

72 CHIANG MAI The Enchanting Rose of the North There’s much more to than BOOK NOW! Bangkok and beaches. The country’s cities offer a broad array attractions Tody A. Sandy and unique experiences. One such city is Chiang Mai. E: [email protected]

Photography : YM | Saliha-id | iStock : YM Photography P: 0822 98291645

8 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 9 FOCUS | DUSTIN JOHNSON

he US on Then, disaster struck. A freak back injury back where it kind of, it really affected like my April 5-8 is the first Major of the on the eve of the Masters ruled him out of the rotation through the ball." T season where almost every player is year's first Major and extinguished his early- Johnson seems to be fully recovered now dreaming of claiming their first Major trophy, season spark. He missed the cut at the US and prepared to take on his next challenge. His and a talented handful of players are hungry to Open then finished low down the field at the 2018 season started at the Sentry Tournament add another to their collection. British Open and US PGA. of Champions in Hawaii in January where he QUEST FOR Among the players looking to increase "It took a long time to recover from it, for claimed the title after romping to an eight- their Major tally is Dustin Johnson. Johnson’s sure," said Johnson, regarding his frustration shot victory. Coupling that with three Top-10 quest will begin at Augusta National Club. at missing the Masters, to Sporting News. finishes in five starts this season, Johnson The world No.1 is looking to bounce back "I've never really had an injury, other than is very optimistic that he will manage more with a statement season. He began last year I had knee surgery in 2010, maybe, I think. victories. with a bang, collecting three titles and three But that was only six weeks or something that “A lot of seasons I’ve only had one win, but Top-10 finishes in seven appearances before I was down, but it didn't really affect me at last year was my most and hopefully I can do The Major the Masters. all. So that was a lot different from my lower even better this year. I’m pretty confident in

This April marks the beginning of Major season. Over the next five months, the world’s best players engage in the battle to secure themselves one of the most coveted titles in golf.

Dustin Johnson plays his shot on the eighth hole during the Final Round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Photography : Getty Images Photography

10 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 11 FOCUS | DUSTIN JOHNSON

Phachara Khongwatmai

“Look at the way [Phachara] handled himself under pressure. If I was 18, I don't know if I would be able to do what he did this my game, especially coming off a strong year,” exception of his victory at the US Open in about that possibility with fans predicting week by playing said the 33-year-old, as quoted by Fox Sport. 2016, Johnson's record throughout the Major Johnson will indeed be able to claim his second in this type of Johnson admitted that he’s not the type tournaments is not particularly convincing. At Major title at Augusta. The bookmakers are to write down any specific resolutions. “I the Masters, he’s yet to manage to remain as favoring his chances as a top name too judging pressure.” don't do really too many outcome goals, just a serious contender on Sunday despite seven by the odds charts. more process,” explained Johnson to TSN. tries. His best finish was T-4 in 2016. But, The evidence is Johnson has certainly - Atwal - “Obviously, improve wedge play, I need to having spent more than 50 weeks at the top had enough time to figure something out at improve my bunker play, get a little bit better of the world rankings, Johnson’s sure to be Augusta in recent years after average results in with putting. But as far as outcome goals, I just keen to add to his sole Major title and prove it his first five starts there. The World No.1 could want to, I feel like if I do the right things then wasn’t a fluke. turn his comfort at Augusta into a second the outcome is going to be there and I'm going Johnson's first test will come at the Major title. to achieve all the goals that I want to.” Masters, can he continue with his momentum The Masters, along with the other Majors, and establish himself as a true world number will be Johnson’s focus this year. With the one golfer? There is certainly an optimism

Major Results Tournament 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Masters - T30 T38 T38 - T13 CUT T6 T4 - U.S. Open T48 T40 T8 T23 CUT 55 T4 T2 1 CUT The Open - CUT T14 T2 T9 T32 T12 T49 T9 T54 PGA Champ - T10 T5 CUT T48 T8 - T7 CUT T13 Photography : Getty Images Photography W: Win, D: Draw, L: Lose, WR: World Ranking

12 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 13 FOCUS | A TITLE QUEST THE MAJOR SEASON IS HERE

List of World No. 1 Breaking THE with a Single Major Dustin Johnson Weeks at No.1: 58 weeks (As of March 25, 2018) Won US Open 2016 T-2 the Open 2011 Drought T-2 US Open 2015

Jason Day Weeks at No.1: 51 weeks Won PGA Championship 2015 T-2 Masters 2011, 2nd US Open 2011 & T-2 US Open 2013 2nd PGA Championship 2013

Adam Scott of poses for a portrait prior to the start of the Crowne Plaza Invitational Weeks at No.1: 50 weeks Won Masters 1991 T-2 US Open 1989 n front of empty grandstands on the Day did not win a title last year, but the 18th at Torrey Pines on Monday legendary former world No.1 I morning, celebrated thinks the 2015 PGA Championship winner Weeks at No.1: 16 weeks his 11th PGA Tour victory after he sunk an can claim a second major this year Won Masters 1992 18-inch birdie putt on the sixth playoff hole "Jason can do that. He is one of the game 2nd PGA Championship 1990, to beat Alex Noren and win the Farmers changers with the ball-striking ability he has. T-2 Masters 1998 Insurance Open. Day and Noren had resumed His game is so very good and if he is at his best the playoff after darkness forced them to close there is no doubt he can win another major play on Sunday following five playoff holes. this year” said Norman. David Duval With the putt, Day ended the title- "He has proven ability and can handle the Weeks at No.1: 15 weeks drought he’d been suffering since 2016 Players pressure. There are so many top players out Won The Open 2001 Championship. The 30-year-old triumphantly there but Jason has the ability to beat any of T-2 Masters 1998 & 2nd returned to the winner's circle with hopes of them." Masters 2001, winning many more events, especially major T-2 US Open 2009 championships. "I think 11 [wins] is not enough. I think it's very small," said Day, as quoted by Golf Weeks at No. 1: 11 weeks Week. "And I'm not being disrespectful to “I want to be a Won Masters 2013 anyone else, just, in my mind, that's, I look 2nd The Open 2012, at 11 and I think that's like a very small multiple Major T-2 Masters 2011 number of wins. I want to be a multiple Major champion. It would champion. It would be nice to get the Grand Jason Day of Australia plays his second shot from the rough on the 14th hole Slam, for sure. But anything above 20 is good.” be nice to get the during the third round of the Farmers Insurance Open Tom Lehman Day has previously won one Major, the Grand Slam, for Weeks at No.1: 1 week PGA Championship, and reached No.1 in the sure. But anything Won The Open 1996 world, but he's also battled injuries and faded 2nd Masters 1994, Dustin Johnson is not alone in his quest for a second major. Also seeking the same goal in recent years. Hitting the ground running in above 20 is good." T-2 US Open 1996 2018 by being crowned the Farmers Insurance is a top Australian player who proved he could be tough competition for Johnson with Open champion raises the hope that Day will - Jason Day -

Photography : Getty Images Photography a recent victory at the Farmers Insurance Open. win a Major this year.

14 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 15 FOCUS | A TITLE QUEST THE MAJOR SEASON IS HERE

Justin ROSE AGE 37

The 37-year-old player is one of the world best golfers today and has the Players charisma to go with it. Despite failing in two Major events, the US Open and US PGA Championship, Rose didn’t lose his composure last year. Rose’s performance increased throughout the 2017 season, finally placing him 6th in Watch the Official World Golf Ranking. He took home three titles and 12 Top-10’s finishes In addition to Dustin Johnson and Jason Day come some of the usual names to in 26 appearances last year. Rose has been to a Masters runner-up twice in the past three watch: Adam Scott, , , , , years at Augusta National. After the Valspar Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia, and of course Tiger Woods. But, there are more.... Championship on March 11, Rose moved to No.5 in the OWGR. This year, he may have a chance to add another Major title following his win at the 2013 US Open.

PGA Tour titles : 8 European Tour titles : 11 Best results in major championships 2015, 2nd T2 2013 U.S. Open Won 1998 T4 2012 PGA Championship T3

JON RAHM AGE 23

Rahm is another player who is burning hot right now and ready to win a Major. Rahm, who is already a two-time PGA Tour winner and two-time European Tour winner, is the current World No. 3 and has shown that he possesses the power and finesse to beat the best players. Rahm has aspirations to become like his idols and fellow countrymen, Sergio Garcia, who successfully wore the green jacket, and , who was a leading golfer in the 80s and 90s and a five-time Major winner. Rahm wasn’t able to clinch a Major for ickelson and Woods will both himself last year, but perhaps this year will be particularly determined to AGE 24 be different. M claim a Major title to add to their own records, and along with all the players, Thomas is a meteor in the golf universe. He’s restore their status as realistic Major blazed through everywhere other than the PGA Tour Titles : 2 PGA Tour Titles : 8 contenders. Open Championship in the past 16 months, European Tour Titles : 2 Best results in major championships However, over the past year, a handful securing six titles including a Major, the US Best results in major championships 2017 Masters Tournament T22 of other players have shown off their PGA Championship. Starting the 2017 season 2017 Masters Tournament T27 2017 U.S. Open T9 incredible talent and attracted a lot of at world No.21, Thomas is now currently No.2. 2016 U.S. Open T23 2016 The Open Championship T53 attention. Could they top the leaderboard It looks like it’s just a matter of time before JT 2017 The Open Championship T44 2017 PGA Championship Won and steal the trophy away from the other gets to No.1 in the world and picks up a green 2017 PGA Championship T58

Photography : Getty Images | Asian Tour | Asian : Getty Images Photography potential winners? jacket or another Major title.

16 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 17 INSIGHT | News

On the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort in Tiger s Palm Harbor, Florida, Paul Casey won the PGA Tour title the Valspar Championship. A week later, Rory ’ McIlroy secured his first win since 2016, claiming the Arnold Palmer Invitational title. Two big wins for two big names but all eyes were on another “I am pretty Magnetic name. An even bigger one. close, I think, to putting it all together. It’s like riding a bike Pull but it’s a new bike."

of making birdies coming in, I didn’t. [I] made some mistakes. But to play myself into contention this early into [Valspar], it was nice, and on top of that to build on what I did a week ago. I feel comfortable out there.” However, if the years since that fateful night in November 2009 have taught fans anything, it’s that the road is no longer smooth for Tiger, and critics say he will need to improve his game off the tee if he’s in with a chance of mounting a serious challenge at the Majors. “I am pretty close, I think, to putting it all together. It’s like riding a bike but it’s a new bike,” said Tiger, as quoted by ESPN. “I know what I can do out there but it feels different and that’s one of the things I’m still getting used to. When I fully put it together again, when I know my limits, then I think I’ll start winning golf tournaments again.” What the last eight years have shown is that it’s impossible to predict how far Tiger will rise and whether he will ever again bask in the glory aul Casey and Rory McIlroy seemed a 44-foot birdie putt on the 17th green that Tiger’s return to competitive golf has World Challenge, in December, the euphoria he’ll return to the competitive ranks he once he was once swathed in. One thing is certain, his unperturbed by the presence of Tiger pulled him within one stroke of Casey. It was a provided a huge boost to spectator numbers of Tiger's return echoed through the media dominated. The next part of the progression, dazzling career, that has produced 79 Tour wins P Woods at the Valspar Championship glimmer of the former great Tiger Woods that on the course and an even bigger increase to and online. Whether it be enduring love and as Woods stated before , is including 14 majors, stunned audiences around and Arnold Palmer Invitational, each securing golf fans long to see again. After making the cut TV and online audiences. Even non-golf fans adoration of the once invincible sportsman, ‘winning time.’ the world tournament after tournament and his themselves another PGA Tour title. Tiger may at the Farmers Insurance Open, then missing have been tuning in to see how the world’s most or simply a fascination with the world’s most “I keep getting a little bit better here presence is still highly anticipated to this day. not have won but he played well and for the it at the Genesis Open in mid-February, Tiger famous name in golf will fare back on his old prolific golfer who had arguably the world’s and there, making these little subtle tweaks, His recent performances have raised the hopes first time since 2013 looked to be in with a real has been showing steady improvement, playing turf. Tiger Woods is like a TV drama that fans most prolific fall from grace, the fact is, and I’ve done that from tournament to of millions who want to see him go head-to- chance. steadily to finish 12th at the Honda Classic, can’t stop watching. everyone still wants to see Tiger. tournament,” said Woods, as quoted by the head with today’s best players. We can only wait Photography : Getty Images Photography Scoring a 1-under- 70 in the final round reaching T2 at Valspar, and T5 at the Arnold When Tiger announced last October that Tiger’s performance in the most recent New York Post. “I thought I had a shot at with bated breath to see when and where they at Innisbrook, Tiger enchanted spectators with Palmer Invitational. he would play in his own tournament, the Hero events shines a renewed ray of hope that Honda with a few holes to go, and instead will meet.

18 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 19 INSIGHT | News

After finishing T5 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Tiger Woods jumped up to 105th on the A Big Official World Golf Ranking It s his best ranking . ’ Move since April 2015.

e was ranked 101st on the OWGR after finishing T17 in the 2015 Masters. It is Tiger’s third H move after the Honda Classic and the Valspar Championship when he climbed 155 places from No. 544 to No. 389 and then from No. 389 to No. 149. But it’s not just ranking points that Tiger is collecting; after finishing T5 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational on March 18th, Tiger secured himself a spot in this season's Playoffs. The only two-time winner of the FedExCup is now 35th in the The Tiger Effect FedExCup standings. He has 450 points after earning 105 for his performance last week. Last season, 365 points was the magic number needed to qualify for the FedExCup December’s Hero World Challenge may have been an off-season 18-man Playoffs. exhibition, however, the return of Tiger Woods boosted its TV ratings to new highs. If he makes an appearance for the FedEx Cup Playoffs, it’ll be the first time he’s competed in them since finishing second in 2013.

ccording to the Golf Channel, the At the Genesis Open, there was a similar 2017 Hero World Championship trend on the rating graph over the first two TIGER’S RANKING & STATISTICS a saw a 29 percent increase over days, which dropped off when Tiger missed the the 2016 event, and with 22.4 million total cut for the last two rounds. Then, when Tiger minutes streamed (a 201 percent increase challenged for the lead during the final round of World Ranking year-over-year) it was second only to the Open the Valspar Championship, it drew the largest Year Event Pos Rank After Championship among NBC golf events last TV audience of any non-Masters golf event th year. since the 2015 PGA Championship. It also had 2018 Arnold Palmer Invitational T5 105 Tiger’s second appearance this season, at the highest number of TV viewers for a non- 2018 Valspar Championship T2 149th the Farmers Insurance, also had a big impact on major since the 2013 Players Championship, 2018 The Honda Classic 12 389th the ratings. According to New York Daily, CBS which was won by the 41-year-old player. The 2018 Genesis Open MC 544th Sports' Sunday final-round coverage earned a Golf Channel, which broadcast the pre-network th 38 percent increase from last year and was the coverage, earned themselves the title of the 2018 Farmers Insurance Open T23 539 highest-rated Sunday for the Farmers in five network’s highest-rated lead-in telecast ever, 2017 Hero World Challenge T9 668th years, since the last time Tiger won in 2013. while NBC Sports engraved a record overnight “He may be the biggest name in sports, rating on the Saturday for its coverage of the Statistics matched only by Michael Jordan and third round. (After Arnold Palmer Invitational, March 18th) Muhammad Ali,” said the former president It was the best-rated third round of a sizeable. Golf Channel and NBC Sports Digital Category Avg. Rank of CBS Sports and president of Pilson PGA Tour event on any broadcast network experienced a massive 612 percent increase in th Communications, Inc., Neal H. Pilson, to Golf since 2006, and the best rating for the Valspar minutes streamed with a total of 27.2 million Driving Distance 304.2 36 Digest after the Famers Insurance. “When tournament ever, with the viewership increasing minutes streamed for the tournament. Birdie Average 4.00 32nd he plays, the networks are going to give him 181 percent over the same round last year. The huge audiences continue to turn out Scoring Average 69.474 5th coverage. And the fact is, the public wants to see The increase that the networks have seen whenever Tiger is playing. The Tiger effect lives Fedexcup Season Points 450 35th Photography : Getty Images | AP : Getty Images Photography that coverage.” to their digital audience has been even more on!

20 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 21 INSIGHT | News

THE WGC-MEXICO CHAMPIONSHIP The 1,687 Day Return to the Circle Wait Ends Before coming to Club de Golf Chapultepec, Mexico City, Phil Mickelson was experiencing the longest drought of his professional career. Now it’s finally ended. The 47-year-old is once again a winner on the Three major tournaments have put three old faces back in the PGA Tour. Despite waiting for 101 tournaments over spotlight. Each has waited a long time to get back into the champion’s the course of almost five years (1,687 days), Mickelson circle. And if there’s one thing to be learned from this, it’s that never doubted himself for a second. He beat Justin one should never give up. Injuries and bad performances did not Thomas in a Sunday playoff round to earn his first victory since the 2013 British Open at Muirfield. discourage these three players despite the long wait to get back up "I don't know what to say," said Mickelson, as to the top of the leaderboard. They believed they could do it and they quoted by CNN. "It's been a tough go the last four years did. Here’s the story of the “new” champions: not playing my best, but to have the belief that I was going to get there and to finally break through and do it was incredible. I believe that more is to come," added Mickelson speaking to the PGA Tour. THE ARNOLD PALMER INVITATIONAL The win is Mickelson’s third World Golf Championship title and, just a month after being on the verge of falling out of the top 50 in the world for the An Inner first time in two decades, moves him to No. 18. Connection with the Legend THE 2018 WGC-HSBC CHAMPIONS

Rory McIlroy had a strong connection with Arnold Palmer. When he played in the Arnold Palmer Practice Invitational three years ago he almost made the King proud. This year, on March 18th, McIlroy was Makes Perfect able to put in a performance that truly would have made Palmer proud. Michelle Wie finally ended her title drought that has span McIlroy ran off five birdies over his last six the last three and half years since her US Open victory in holes and closed with an 8-under 64 for a three- 2014. She not only won the 2018 WGC-HSBC Champions shot victory. It was his first win since the Tour on March 4th but also settled unfinished business in Championship on Sept. 25, 2016, the day Palmer Sentosa, Singapore, where last year when she fell away in died. the final round. "I wish he would have been at the top of the This year, she got the job done, coming from five shots hill to shake my hand when I came off the 18th back to hand in a 65 which left her at 17-under par and green there," said McIlroy, as quoted by AP. "But one ahead of Jenny Shin, Nelly Korda, Danielle Kang, and hopefully, he's proud of me with the way I played Brooke Henderson. that back nine. I tried to be as aggressive as I could Wie’s massive putt on the 18th was what separated her and tried to take on shots when I needed to, just from her competitors and put her in the winner’s circle like he would have. So yeah, it's come full circle again. She said that the first thing she saw as her putt went since that day in September in 2016, and just proud down was her parents, B.J. and Bo, celebrating to the side. to be sitting up here and have my name on that “Through good times and bad, they have always been trophy.” there for me. With their on-going belief, I started believing in myself again,” said Wie, as quoted by hsbcgolf.com. The win provides a lot of relief for McIlroy who Wie has struggled with injuries and poor form since has been through an injury-plagued 2017 and failed her US Open triumph in 2014. However, after returning to to win anywhere in the world. Just a week before the road and coming back to these fairways, her confidence the Arnold Plamer Invitational, he missed the cut began to rise and finally it was a great result at Sentosa. in the Valspar Championship. Now he's a winner What does winning mean to Wie? “It means again. And remember, McIlroy only needs a green everything. There’s no better feeling. It’s what makes you

Photography : Asian Tour : Asian Photography jacket to complete his career Grand Slam. practice.”

22 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 23 INSIGHT | News

OB Golf Invitational First Pro Title at the Inaguration The inaugural OB Golf Invitational was played over 54 holes due to inclement weather forcing the cancellation of the final round. Japanese player, Shohei Hasegawa, won his first professional title on the East Course at Gunung Geulis Golf & Country Club.

n the final hole of the third round of the OB Golf Invitational at Gunung O Geulis, Shohei Hasegawa of made a birdie. That birdie put him at the top of the leaderboard on 10-under par, a one-stroke lead over Sydney Chung and a two-stroke lead over , both of the USA. It turned out to be the decisive shot in Hasegawa’s victory at the inaugural event. Due to unfavorable weather conditions, the final round, which was scheduled to start at 7.30am local time, was delayed until 8.30am. It was suspended again at 8.57am due to lighting threats before officials subsequently announced the cancelation of the final round Shohei Kasegawa, John Catlin, and Shinichi Mizuno (L to R) at 11 am. Overnight leader Hasegawa was then declared the winner of the US$70,000 Asian Shohei Kasegawa Development Tour event. Speaking after the event, Hasegawa said, “The weather didn’t look good this morning and I thought I would still have 18 holes to play a Asian Tour graduate, who friends back home and call my family after this "I was just upset better round today. But they decided to shorten resides in Hiroshima, Japan, has been riding is over. I feel good about where my game is at that I didn’t get the the tournament I was just upset that I didn’t get on good form, coming to the tournament on right now and I am proud of how I performed opportunity to play in the opportunity to play in the final group which the back of a T6 finish in Brunei earlier in the on this course,” said Hasegawa. I was looking forward to. I scored a birdie in the month. American Sydney Chung settled for second the final group which last hole that made me lead the third round with Relishing the opportunity to play against place on 204 while compatriot John Catlin I was looking forward a one-shot lead. However, it turned out to be an international field on the Tour’s secondary finished in third place, one shot back of Chung. the last score as well as my winner.” circuit, the Japanese player went home with Indonesia’s George Gandranata signed for a to. I scored a birdie in Twenty-four-year-old Hasegawa the winner's prize purse of US$ 12,250 and is 206 to secure fourth place while Singapore’s the last hole that made was delighted to clinch his maiden Asian now looking forward to gaining more playing Johnson Poh took outright fifth place with his me lead the third round Development Tour victory with a three-day experience on the ADT. 208 total. total of 203. It is his first professional win since Sydney Chung “It feels so good to finally win my first with a one-shot lead."

Photography : YM Photography he joined the play-for-pay ranks in 2015. The professional victory. I am going to tell all my

24 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 25 INSIGHT | News OB Golf On March 22, George Gandranata and Miguel Carballo both celebrated their birthday whilst playing in the same Invitational group for the second round of the tournament. Thirty- two-year-old George placed fourth, while 38-year-old Carballo failed to make the cut. Carballo has previously Tidbits won on the and the Web.com Tour in his 16-year professional career.

Naraajie Emerald R.P. could soon be nicknamed King of The winner of OB Golf Invitational Shohei Hasegawa Mountain. In the two Asian Development Tour tournaments he’s already earned his Asian Tour card at Qualifying School Rifqi Alam Ramadhan made an ace on hole 16 in the first This year, 15 Indonesian golfers made the cut for the played at Gunung Geulis Golf & Country Club (West and East earlier this year. The 24-year-old, who turned professional round of the OB Golf Invitational. With his 5-iron, the national ADT ever, four of whom were amateur players. Back in Course), the 17-year-old amateur has won the Lowest Amateur. This is in December 2015, decided to play on the Asian Tour this amateur player holed the ball from 190 yards away. It was his first 2016, when the ADT event was held on the West Course his third title in an ADT event. year was because he loves traveling. Since getting his AT card hole in one in a professional event, and his second ace ever. The of Gunung Geulis Golf and Country Club, 12 Indonesian Hasegawa has been to and Brunei. It was his precise shot helped him to move to T2, a stroke behind the leader of players made the cut with three being amateurs.

Photography : YM Photography first time visiting Indonesia. the first round John Catlin.

26 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 27 INSIGHT | NEWS

Did you know?

• Sharma dropped only three shots the entire The 2018 week; he had one bogey in round one, two, and three.

• This is Sharma’s fourth start since winning at the Joburg Open in in December.

• His final round 62 is his joint lowest score on the Super Asian Tour in relation to par. He shot a 61 (par 71) in the second round of the Joburg Open and a 62 on the last day of the 2016 Resorts World Manila Masters.

• Sharma’s winning total of 21-under is the lowest Shub winning score at the Maybank Championship. His two-shot victory equals the largest winning margin in the event. also won by two shots in the inaugural edition in 2016. Strikes • He is the first Asian to win the Maybank Championship and second Asian Tour member after Fraser to clinch the title.

• The last time an Indian won in was in 2015. He went on to win the the Final order of merit title in the same year.

• This is Sharma’s second Maybank Championship appearance. He finished tied ninth last year to secure his Asian Tour card.

Round • Sharma is one of the rising stars on the Asian Tour and he joins a list of young champions to emerge from the region’s premier tour.

• Sharma’s friend and roommate for the week, Khalin Joshi also had a good result. He finished tied fifth to earn US$92,880 and has virtually secured his Asian Tour card for next season. Shubhankar Sharma was e did it in some style, too. Struggling “I played pretty solid and it wasn’t easy Mexico Championship as well as moving on fire at the Maybank in the opening two rounds at the because it was windy. I kept pushing the whole to the top of the Race to Dubai rankings. A Championship. The H Saujana Golf and Country Club in day. I knew I had to make a lot of birdies to long jump for a golfer who, only three weeks Kuala Lumpur, he survived the halfway cut by catch the leaders. I made a lot of birdies in the before his maiden victory, finished T-68 at the young Indian star a single stroke. He then scored 66-62 in the front nine and just continued on the back,” European Tour Qualifying School. sank 10 birdies for a last two rounds to reach a total of 21-under par said Sharma, as quoted by the Asian Tour. remarkable 10-under- and achieve a two-stroke edge over runner-up “To be honest, I wasn’t thinking about the par 62 in the final round Jorge Campillo of . The talented Indian leaderboard. I wanted to set a target in my to claim a stunning two- overcame his four-shot deficit with a dominant mind and try to achieve it.” display to clinch his second Asian Tour and Sharma collected $500,000 for the victory shot victory at the US$3 European Tour title with a winning total of and also a place in the upcoming WGC- Khalin Joshi

Photography : Asian Tour : Asian Photography million event. 267.

28 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 29 OB Golf Magazine MC2018_ThankYou Ad(o).pdf 1 07/03/2018 11:18 AM

INSIGHT | News

Women’s PGA Cup to be Held Next Year

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reported replica of ’s 1995 British Open emale PGA members from around the world will team Championship trophy recently sold in an online up in 2019 to represent their countries in the Women’s auction for $66,000. An unidentified bidder forked PGA Cup. outA for the 12.5-inch replica Claret Jug. FAccording to PGA.com, the Women’s PGA Cup will be a The silver trophy has been the subject of some 54-hole event with each team’s lowest three scores controversy. This was the second time that Daly’s claret being counted after each round. Each national team will be jug was put up for auction. The first time was in 2016 but composed of five players and one Captain, who also may be a Daly quickly took to Twitter to deny that the trophy was playing or non-playing captain at the option of the respective authentic. The replica, which had drawn a bid of $10,000 country. The winning country will be the team with the a few days into bidding, was pulled from auction, shortly lowest 54-hole aggregate total. after Daly tweeted: “Just to let everyone know I still have “We’re excited to announce the Women’s PGA Cup, my CLARET JUG xtra 1 thought was going to b donated to which will promote and highlight the exceptional playing St Andrews museum.” ability of our female PGA professionals and afford them Heritage, the auctioneers of the claret jug in question, the opportunity to represent our country against their claimed otherwise in the jug’s most recent auction PGA counterparts from around the globe,” said Paul Levy, description. "This is one of two produced for Daly by The President of the PGA of America. “The potential of this event Royal and Ancient Golf Club's official silversmith Nicolas is vast and we believe it will help grow women’s professional Winton. We stress to interested parties that there is no golf both domestically and internationally.” ownership controversy today and that this is indeed the one Some countries have already tentatively committed to and only Daly Claret Jug available to the collecting public.” play in the 2019 Women’s PGA Cup: Australia, , Seemingly, the anonymous buyer agreed, dropping the Great Britain & Ireland, , , and the cool $66,000 to make it their own. . The PGA is yet to announce the venue for the inaugural competition. Photography : Getty Images Photography

30 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 31 INSIGHT | News

Concern Over Increased Distance

ustin Johnson not only won the A joint-press release said, “In conjunction – which is seeing eight times as many players Sentry Tournament of Champions in with the publication of the 2017 distance averaging more than 300 yards compared to a January, the World No.1 player also research report, The R&A and USGA are decade ago - could be put down to six factors, Dmade the longest, most accurate drive ever carrying out a comprehensive analysis of the citing better athletes, driver technology, and recorded. His shot from the 12th tee traveled impacts of increased distance on both the course conditioning - as well as the “go-faster” 433 yards on the par-4 hole, finishing inches playing and overall health of golf.” ball. from the pin, very nearly scoring him the There’s now talk that the R&A and USGA Jay Monahan, the PGA Tour commissioner, longest ace in professional golf history. are determined to impose limitations which tried to calm the atmosphere. The PGA emailed Two months later, the R&A and the could see the ball’s “capacity to travel” reduced their professionals stating in contrast to the USGA has published a report about driving by up to 20 percent. According to , official “unusual and concerning” view, that distance. The two governing bodies of as quoted by the Telegraph, Mike Davis, the the Tour does not believe “the trends indicate golf have stated that the latest review of USGA executive director confirmed to him that a significant or abnormal increase.” With driving distance has produced "unusual and they were ready to act. Monahan going on to say, “Rest assured, we concerning" results. Their review showed a However, firms such as Titleist, the will continue to collaborate and share data with seven-yard average gain and concluded that manufacturer of golf’s best-selling balls, have the USGA and the R&A. [We are] hopeful our the increase across the seven most prominent threatened to take legal action if they go ahead. perspectives will align.” pro tours “in a single season is unusual and Wally Uihlein, the former Titleist CEO and Until now there is no solution to mediate concerning.” current adviser, declared that the distance boom the debate about driving distance. Photography : Getty Images Photography

32 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 33 INSIGHT | Profile

Tommy Fleetwood was an unfamiliar name amongst those at the top of the leaderboard at the 2017 US Open. Sitting in fourth place until the final round, it was the beginning of the 27-year-old's journey to finally claim the European Tour's Race to Dubai crown by defeating .

he son of a Southport lorry driver Fleetwood went through a rough Family Matters: T overcame his dramatic career slump patch in 2016. From his highest • His father, Pete Fleetwood, is the person who to revel in a glorious 2017. position of 47th in the Official World fostered Tommy’s talent. Speaking on BBC Radio, This year, Fleetwood proved he can sustain Golf Rankings in July 2015, he tumbled Pete said, “I cut him a club down. He hit a couple his game, winning the Abu Dhabi HSBC all the way to 188th just 14 months of shots and I thought, ‘he’s going to be a good Championship for a second year running later. How did he deal with that? golfer.” and setting out on his way to the top of the Fleetwood returned to his former swing European Tour Order of Merit. Here’s the coach, Alan Thompson, who first started • Throughout his junior career, Pete would carry story of the current world No. 10 who is not coaching the Southport player when he was his son’s clubs and dispense advice. There was nearly aware enough of his talents, but shows 13, and employed his childhood best friend, his brilliance among the very best players in Ian Finnis, as his caddy. A victory at the Abu one occasion at Clitheroe where caddies were not the world. Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, his second allowed. Fleetwood cried all the way round as he European Tour victory three-and-a-half years struggled with a comparatively massive trolley. “He after his maiden triumph at the 2013 Johnnie shot 132,” recalled Pete. “Although to this day, he Walker Championship, in January 2017 was contends it was 131!” the result of the changes. His ranking had been continually climbing over the six months prior • “He’s always been flamboyant, like my Grandma to the title in Abu Dhabi. – we come from a pretty eccentric family,” said Tommy’s mother, Sue. How was Fleetwood’s amateur What are Fleetwood’s goals for the career? future? ’S FACTS FILE: He had a stellar amateur career including being He wants to win majors and play in multiple Born: January 19, 1991 (age 27) selected for the 2009 Walker Cup team, two Ryder Cups. “I wanted to be at the last two Turned Pro: 2010 victories at the 2009 Scottish Amateur Stroke Ryder Cups but didn’t come close,” said Play Championship and the 2010 English Fleetwood, as quoted by . “As ACHIEVEMENTS: Amateur, and four runner-up finishes in the soon as I got to the level where I was one 2011 - Kazakhstan Open 2008 Amateur Championship, the 2010 New good year away from playing in a Ryder 2013 - Johnnie Walker Championship South Amateur, the 2010 Spanish Cup, I wanted to do it. I’m starting off now Amateur, and the 2010 European Amateur. with a much bigger building block in place. 2017 - Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship Fleetwood also reached number one on the I had a massively consistent year and won HNA Open de Scratch Players World Amateur Rankings. In twice. I want to win a lot more, wherever 2018 - Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship

July 2010, Fleetwood finished as runner-up those tournaments are; winning is a habit I Challenge Tour European Tour to in the on want to keep up. I didn’t win in Hong Kong Europe's second tier Challenge Tour. Shortly straight after Dubai and was annoyed by it. What’s in Fleetwood’s Bag: after winning the English Amateur in August Majors would be a nice natural progression. 2010, he turned professional. In my career, I want to win multiple major Driver: TaylorMade M3 9.5° championships.” 3 Wood: Tommy Fleetwood What does Fleetwood’s professional Nike Vapor Fly 13° career look like so far? Aside from golf, what does Fleetwood 5 Wood: Early in his professional career, Fleetwood like? Nike Vapor Fly 19° was still searching for a way to realize his His favorite mag is GQ. He loves to read its features 4 Irons: potential. A year after turning pro he claimed and fashion tips. He also likes eating good, healthy Nike VR Forged his first Challenge Tour win at the Kazakhstan food, and listening to a lot of music, everything from Iron (5-9): Open 2011, which secured his place on the oldies and Motown to latest hits. “I have even been England’s Low-Key Nike VR Pro European Tour for 2012. In his first season on told by someone that they heard me singing in the the European Tour, Fleetwood had a mediocre shower from the hotel room next door! I’ve lowered Wedges: Callaway Mack Daddy 4 48°, 52°, 56° and 60° start. He secured his card after finishing in top my singing voice since then,” Fleetwood comments ten of the South African Open which was his on his personal website. Putter: Superstar Odyssey #3 White Hot Pro putter last tournament of the season. His maiden He also watches lots of other sports, including European Tour title came at the Johnnie football, rugby, and darts. “I always follow my team, Ball: Titleist Pro V1x Photography : Getty Images Photography Tommy Fleetwood of England plays his second shot on the 13th hole during the final round of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship Walker Championship in August 2013. Everton,” added Fleetwood.

34 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 35 Tiger Woods plays his second shot on the 18th hole during the final round of the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort Copperhead Course on March 11, 2018 in Palm Harbor, Florida. Photography : Getty Images Photography

36 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 37 2018

WEEK

PGM Johor Championship MASTERS TOURNAMENT MASTERS TOURNAMENT Palm Resort Golf & Country APR 2 - 8 - - Augusta National GC, Augusta, Augusta National GC, Augusta, GA - Club GA US$11,000,000 (APR 5-8) US$11,000,000 (APR 5-8) US$55,000 (APR 5-8)

PANASONIC OPEN LOTTE CHAMPIONSHIP CHAMPIONSHIP+ OPEN DE ESPAÑA RBC HERITAGE PRESENTED BY HERSHEY APR 9 - 15 - - Ibaraki Country Club (West Course), Centro Nacional de Golf, Madrid, Spain Harbour Town GL, Hilton Head, SC Ko Olina, Oahu, HI JPN €1,500,000 (APR 12-15) US$6,700,000 (APR 12-15) US$2,000,000 (APR 11-14) US$1,370,000 (APR 12-15) TROPHEE HASSAN II TPC San Antonio - AT&T Oaks, San HUGEL-JTBC LA OPEN APR 16 - 22 - - - Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, Rabat, Morocco Antonio, TX Los Angeles, CA €2,500,000 (APR 19-22) US$6,200,000 (APR 19-22) US$1,500,000 (APR 19-22)

THE 3RD SERIES VOLVO CHINA OPEN ZURICH CLASSIC OF NEW ORLEANS LPGA MEDIHEAL CHAMPIONSHIP APR 23 - 29 TBA - Beijing Topwin Golf & Country Club Topwin Golf & CC, Beijing, China PR TPC Louisiana, Avondale, LA San Francisco, California IDR200,000,000 US$3,150,600 (APR 26-29) CNY20,000,000 (APR 26-29) US$7,200,000 (APR 26-29) US$1,500,000 (APR 26-29)

VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA LPGA PGM PENANG CHAMPIONSHIP GS Caltex GOLFSIXES TEXAS CLASSIC APR 30 - MAY 6 - Bukit Jawi Golf Resort Nam Seoul Country Club Centurion Club, St Albans, England Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, NC The Colony, TX US$55,000 (MAY 2-5) US$920,000 (MAY 3-6) €1,000,000 (MAY 3-6) US$7,700,000 (MAY 3-6) US$1,300,000 (MAY 3-6)

PGM CCM CHAMPIONSHIP Kota Seriemas Golf & Country Club US$55,000 (MAY 9-12) ROCCO FORTE OPEN – VERDURA MAY 7 - 13 - Verdura GC, Agrigento, Sicily, TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - SINGHA LAGUNA PHUKET OPEN €1,000,000 (MAY 10-13) US$10,500,000 (MAY 10-13) Laguna Golf Phuket US$58,000 (MAY 10-13)

BELGIAN KNOCKOUT AT&T BYRON NELSON Kingsmill Championship RINKVEN MAY 14 - 20 - - - Trinity Forest Golf Club, Dallas, TX Williamsburg, VA International GC, Antwerp, US$7,700,000 (MAY 17-20) US$1,300,000 (MAY 17-20) €1,000,000 (MAY 17-20)

THE 4TH SERIES BMW PGA CHAMPIONSHIP Fort Worth Invitational LPGA Volvik Championship Riverside Golf Club Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, Surrey, MAY 21 - 27 - - Colonial CC, Fort Worth, TX Ann Arbor, MI IDR200,000,000 England US$7,100,000 (MAY 24-27) US$1,300,000 (MAY 24-27) (MAY 22-24) $7,000,000 (MAY 24-27)

the ITALIAN OPEN presented by Nationwide U.S. WOMEN'S OPEN MAY 29 - JUN 3 - - - Gardagolf CC, , Italy Muirfield Village GC, Dublin, OH Shoal Creek, AL $7,000,000 (MAY 31-JUN 3) $8,900,000 (MAY 31-JUN 3) US$5,000,000 (MAY 31-JUN 3) THE GEAR

New XXIO X Driver New METAL WOODS Experience The Unveiling of Easier Distance New M3 & M4 TaylorMade Golf introduces their new M3 & M4 drivers, which they claim are a breakthrough innovation he new generation of XXIO has True-Focus Impact Technology supports the then has been employed for the human platform arrived. The XXIO X Driver is an advantages of XXIO X drivers. The technology to analyze human-related aspects such as body with Twist Face technology. Twist Face is TaylorMade’s solution to counteract golfers’ most common T evolution of the XXIO series over nine is a synergy between the newly developed shaft motion, burden during the swing, impact sound, misses, more specifically, those resulting from the high toe and low heel impacts. generations since its debut in 2000. that promotes consistent body motion during the and shaft feel. The new XXIO X Driver, the 10th swing to tighten impact point dispersion and the There are two models of the XXIO X driver, generation of the XXIO series, provides every new head that maximizes COR performance at the Regular Model and the Miyazaki Model. golfer the chance to experience easier distance the sweet spot. The XXIO X Driver Regular Model offers o counteract a hook, the driver In addition to Twist Face technology, thanks to its new design. The company research This technology was initially used for the high trajectory with an exhilarating feel, while face has been ‘twisted’ open the M3 driver features a new matte silver has found that the XXIO X Driver increases the technical platform to analyze mechanics and the Miyazaki Model offers more penetrating T (loft increased & face opened) front section and a raised, aerodynamic chance of hitting the ball on the sweet spot by functions of equipment during the golf swing trajectory and a slightly heavier club weight. The on the high-toe to help straighten ball five-layer carbon composite crown. The 14% - an increase from 59% to 73% - compared including motion of balls and clubs through Regular Model will be available in Navy. flight. Similarly, to counteract a slice, the M3 is also equipped with a new intuitive to the previous model. impact, trajectory and aerodynamics of balls, and driver face has been twisted closed to Y-Track adjustability system for CG de-loft and close the face in the low heel adjustment of the head to obtain desired, area. Ultimately, TaylorMade’s Twist optimal ball flight parameters, and new Face technology delivers a corrective face Hammerhead slot, in combination angle for off-center hits to result in longer, with Twist Face and Inverted Cone straighter shots. technologies, to deliver maximum ballspeed across a larger area of the face and thus, resulting in a larger sweet spot. The Hammerhead slot’s design is defined by three elements; the Speed Pocket™, the face geometry, and the stiffening ribs, which delivering longer drive. Beyond the standard M4 model, TaylorMade is also offering a higher- launching, more draw-biased model, the M4 D-Type. It combines multiple draw-biased design technologies to help players who consistently fight fade-to-slice trajectories to find more fairways. Complementing the M3 driver and its unrivaled personalization, the M4 driver differentiates its design by putting an emphasis on unparalleled forgiveness with straight distance. The M4 Driver also In comparison to the drivers, which utilizes the Twist Face & Hammerhead both boast the five-layer carbon composite but also incorporates Geocoustic™ crowns, TaylorMade engineers have engineering which combines geometry designed thinner and lighter composite and acoustical engineering to unlock more panels than ever before for the 2018 M3 forgiveness and best-in-class sound. and M4 metal woods. Photography : Srixon | TaylorMade : Srixon Photography

40 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 41 THE GAME

Great ball strikers understand how to use the ground, and the really long hitters on the mens’ and womens’ tours use it even better still. The key to improving your distance is to push into the ground in your downswing. What results from this is the ground actually pushes back at you, although thankfully you don’t feel this. How to Gain This movement allows you to very quickly start rotating your body in the direction of your left heal (for a right- handed golfer). This should feel like your hips go first, then your shoulder, then your arms, and lastly the club. If you have ever wanted to feel more lag in the club then Greater practice this imitating a baseball bat swing. Distance

By: Stephen Moriarty

The one common goal most golfers share is the wish and desire to hit the ball greater distances. Golfers will go to all lengths to achieve this - new clubs heads, new shafts, new golf balls, tips from YouTube, tips from Follow these pictures friends, and lessons from Professional coaches. and step by step guide:

1. Backswing top 2. Push into the ground ike all quick tips and fixes, One proven way to gain greater 3. Ground pushes you back distance gains can be very club speed at impact is to make sure 4. Quickly unwind your hips and let the L short lived. The new driver that you are using the ground correctly in rest of your body follow worked six months ago no longer seems your swing. Many golfers try to move 5. Make sure you get the clubface back to to be quite so long anymore. The tip towards the target in their downswing the correct position from your friend that showed immediate but unfortunately, they don’t always use improvements has stopped working and it the ground as they should to benefit Spend ten minutes working on this the seems that you are hitting the ball shorter themselves. next time you have a club in your hand than ever. The never-ending search and remember to have fun with the continues. expertise and see how quickly you feel you can move the clubhead through impact. Illustration : Vickirio Illustration

42 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 43 THE GAME

Fault As an instructor, one of the most common questions surrounding pitching I’m asked is, “how do I get the ball higher to make it drop A Misconception and stop when pitching?” Trying to achieve this has led many golfers to ‘flick’ their wrists at impact in an attempt to scoop the ball up. This leads to the right hand undertaking the left which in turn fires the club Of Pitching face towards the ball with no control. You can see this in the graphic. If played correctly, the pitch shot can provide you a huge platform to rescue a hole or increase your What this leads to is inconsistent distance as we are manipulating the clubface with an chances of making a birdie. However, there are some common misconceptions surrounding pitching uncontrollable speed. Furthermore, and more which lead to inconsistent pitching technique. importantly, when the right hand undertakes the left hand we start to bring the leading edge into the equation which can also cause inconsistency in strike and distance. The result can be thin and fat shots.

By: Sam Filipczak FIX To fix this problem it is important to understand that the wrists should remain passive throughout the pitch shot, especially at impact (graphic 1). It is important to note that clubs are designed to help the ball up into the air so require no manipulation just good technique. This is achieved by using your body rather than your wrists. By turning the body back and through the pitching movement instead of using your wrists to hit the pitch shot, you will notice a far greater consistency in strike, height, and distance control. If you happen to require more height, just take a higher lofted wedge and make sure you continue to move the club with your body rather than solely your wrists. You can see from the graphics how the clubface is kept square and there is no leading edge. CONCLUSION Achieving consistent results with your pitching technique does not need to be difficult, but good results will not be achieved using the wrists. Instead, use your body and different loft clubs in your bag. You will be able to achieve a repeatable movement allowing you increase your consistency when pitching and thus giving you the opportunity to lower your

Illustration : Vickirio Illustration score.

44 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 45 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | TOURNAMENT

The 1st Series of Indonesian Golf Tour NewNew SpiritSpirit FORFOR George Gandranata IndonesianIndonesian PlayersPlayers The 2018 Indonesian Golf Tour has begun. The first stage of the yearly voyage of the national professional golf circuit took place at Jababeka Golf & Country Club. It was the first of a series of eight IGT tournaments before the Grand Final this year.

Danny Masrin

Masters. It continued Indonesia’s success at the prestigious event two years ago, with four players making it through to the final round.” As a result, the 2018 Indonesian Golf Tour has created a heightened spirit for Indonesian players. The renewed spirit has been spreading since the 1st Series at Jababeka. It’s expected that the Indonesian players will continue to show improvement in their ability and fighting spirit and at the end of the season will have recorded better results than previous seasons. At the 1st Series, George Gandranata opened his IGT campaign by climbing to the top of the leaderboard to claim the title and add the trophy to his growing collection. The 31-year-old won the battle in the last three holes by closing with a total of 4-under par, pipping Danny Masrin to the post by one-shot. "The key to my victory today is the his year, the IGT has expanded short game," said George. "My chipping "We want Indonesian its calendar for the first time and putting were also very good this week, T since 2014. The good results especially chipping. In Singapore (SMBC players to have many carved out by Indonesian players last ) I played badly because my opportunities to play year motivated the tournament organizer, chipping was not good and I was advised to OB Golf, to coordinate the additional practice the shot.” so they can compete at tournament. , Benita Y. Kasiadi, and most “We want Indonesian players to have recent rookie of the year, Elki Kow, placed higher levels [Asian Tour many opportunities to play so they can T3 all on a total of one-under par. Naraajie and Asian Development compete at higher levels [Asian Tour and E. Ramadhan (amateur) scored an even Asian Development Tour events],” said par for 6th, while Joshua Andrew W. and Tour events]" Merry Kwan, Marketing Director of OB Fajar Winnuryanto sat at T7 with a total of Golf. “Last year, we had seven players, one-over par. Merry Kwan

Photography : YM Photography Rory Hie six professionals and one amateur, who The players have shown that they are managed to make the cut at the Indonesian ready for the next series of the 2018 IGT.

46 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 47 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | TOURNAMENT

George Gandranata, The 1st Series IGT WINNER ReclaimingReclaiming HisHis IdentityIdentity George Gandranata is reinstating his dominance on the Indonesian professional circuit. With determination and patience, George won the 1st Series of the 2018 Indonesian Golf Tour.

eorge’s victory was secured in the last three holes. After a birdie G on the 11th hole, George’s total score was 3-under par, one stroke behind Danny Masrin who led the field on 4-under par. While Danny, who played in the group in front of George, made bogey on the 16th hole, George scored a birdie to put him ahead by a shot. He maintained that standing until the close of the round. The win is Gandranata's sixth on the Indonesian Golf Tour; he previously claimed three titles in 2014 and two in 2017. After having a successful season in 2014, George suffered a title drought for two years. “In 2015, I focused too much on “Some people suggested I look for my my shots must be straight and far. Well, it own game identity. ‘What is my identity?’ just did not work for me,” said George. I am not a typical long hitter. Therefore, Last year, Gandranata was able to end my short game should be good. I keep RESULTS AT THE 1ST SERIES the drought with two titles. He also claimed practicing short game,” explained the the Best Player of the Year, his second 31-year-old who is the only Indonesian Total Score: 4 under (212) time winning the award. This latest win at player to win an Asian Development Tour Birdie 8 Jababeka is part of his campaign to maintain event. “It really helped my game. I have to Bogey 2

Photography : YM Photography his pace and status as one of the strongest build my game around my short game, not Double Bogey 1 Indonesian competitors. short game built around the other game.”

48 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 49 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | TOURNAMENT

THE 2ND SERIES OF IGT

because of it. In addition, I also have to practice physically in order not to drop Preparation for quickly. This will have an impact on the Preparation for concentration that decreases during the match," said the 31-year-old. Rinaldi expressed his belief that his Next-LevelNext-Level EventEvent score and position after the final round is a signal that he is progressing since the last time he was in the top position, which was in 2014. "I am optimistic I can maintain this performance, I will achieve the best results in the next week and also in the next IGT Series," he added. The other contenders in the 2nd Series shared the positive feeling of playing in the event. For all the players, the event was good preparation for the Asian Development Tour event, the OB Golf Invitational, on 21-24 March, which also took place on Gunung Geulis’s East Course.

Naraajie

Danny Masrin "I am optimistic I Gunung Geulis’s East Course can maintain this was an old friend to Danny performance, I will Masrin as he took home the title of the 2nd Series of achieve the best the Indonesian Golf Tour. he 2nd Series of Indonesian “Despite my game being good for the results in the next However, all of the players Golf Tour took place at Gunung last two days, I was lucky because Rinaldi, T Geulis Golf and Country Club, who was giving his top performance, got week and also in the gained something from the Bogor. Danny Masrin managed to repeat a bogey on the 17th,” explained Danny. tournament: the chance to his success of 2017 on the par-71 East “Despite winning here, I have to improve next IGT Series." test out their skills, check out Course. The 24-year-old defeated Rinaldi my short game for the preparation of OB the course condition and Adiyandono by a single stroke. Golf Invitational next week. A lot of my Rinaldi The East Course proved to be shots were wasted because my short game hone their instincts ahead a welcoming friend to Danny, who was not good in the first two days.” of the Asian Development previously won the 2017 IGT Grand Final Meanwhile, Rinaldi, who failed to Tour event being staged on there with a total of 8-under par. However, win his first title since his 2014 IGT Danny’s 6th IGT title since 2016 was also Grand Final victory, took a positive lesson the same course just a week Rinaldi

Photography : YM Photography secured in part because of a slip-up by from the tournament. "I misapplied the later. Rinaldi on the 17th. strategy today, so many scores were lost

50 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 51 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | TOURNAMENT

DANNY MASRIN Faldo Series TheThe BoostBoost fromfrom BruneiBrunei Danny Masrin won the title of the Indonesian Golf Tour Series II with a total of T3T3 forfor KevinKevin atat 8-under. This is the sixth IGT title for the 24-year-old and the second he has secured on the East Course at Gunung Geulis Golf & Country Club. Asia Grand Final ust a week earlier, Danny played round. Therefore, I had a good feeling in my Danny trained with his coach to hone Asia Grand Final in the Richard Mille Brunei game,” said Danny. his shot sharpness before the most recent J Championship, on the Asian Interestingly, Danny almost skipped the IGT event and won with a solid score. After ne of the Indonesianrepresentatives, Kevin, who turned 20 on February 24, Joining Kevin as victors in their divisions Development Tour tournament where he Richard Mille Brunei Championship after placing as runner-up in the previous IGT event Kevin Caesario Akbar, placed T3 in headed to the Grand Final which was hosted were Gabriel Hansel Hari (Boys’ Under-16 reached T-4. His result in the US$60,000 having a bad result at the ISPS HANDA New and then sealing this latest victory, Danny O the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final by Sir as a result of his success in champion), Michela Tjan (Girls’ Under-18 event, and subsequent Official World Golf Zealand Open a week before Brunei. “My admitted that the good start to his season has at Laguna Lăng Cô in Danang, Vietnam, this the Faldo Series Indonesia Championship. In champion) and Sinolungan (Girls’ Under-16 Ranking points he received, resulted in a boost iron play, which is my strength, was not good. encouraged him to commit to attending each March. The 20-year-old scored a total of 212 a close-fought tournament on Damai Indah champion). to Danny’s spirit, pepping him up to play well However, I was advised to join the Richard series of the 2018 IGT. (1-under), five strokes behind Ahmed Baik Golf’s BSD Course, Akbar made a composed in the IGT event. Mille Brunei Championship. It turned out to of Pakistan who won the Boys Under-21 closing round performance of 3-under 69. That “I was in the best game condition after be a good choice, I had a great result,” added Division. Based on gross scores, Kevin sat at gave him a 54-hole aggregate of 4-under 212,

Photography : YM Photography last week when I performed well in Brunei. I Danny. T11, 14 strokes behind the 2018 Faldo Series two shots ahead of Gabriel Hansel Hari, and scored 6-under (65) in the first and the final Asia Grand Final winner, Suzuka Yamaguchi. four clear of Patricia Walanda Sinolungan.

52 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 53 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | CORPORATE GOLF

OB GOLF INVITATIONAL PRO-AM ADT Opening Event

In addition to organizing the OB Golf Invitational, a US$70,000 Asian Development Tour event, OB Golf also held the OB Golf Invitational Pro-Am match. Through this Pro-Am tournament, partners of OB Golf can learn from playing alongside the pros.

n addition to organizing the OB Golf Golf & Country Club, Bogor. The club was Invitational - a US$70,000 Asian keen to introduce its newly redesigned golf I Development Tour event – OB Golf courses to the golfing public. also hosted the OB Golf Invitational Pro-Am Speaking about the OB Golf Invitational match. Through this Pro-Am tournament, event, Jimmy Masrin, the owner of OB partners of OB Golf had the chance to pick up Golf, said, “Our goal is to send Indonesian some tips and tricks by playing alongside the professional golfers to the 2020 Olympics in pros. Tokyo. By holding this event, we're opening The pro-am was attended by 80 players, 18 the path to Indonesian professional golfers to of whom were Indonesian professional players. the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Tournaments Participants were lucky to have perfect weather on the Asian Tour or the ADT give our local to show off their skills on the championship- players opportunities to earn Official World standard course. After a fun day of golf, Golf Ranking points which are key to raising the participants enjoyed a relaxed evening their ranks and qualifying for the Olympics. atmosphere, including games, good food, and The OB Golf Invitational is a step in the exciting entertainment. right direction and we hope we will have The OB Golf Invitational was the opening more supporters out there in Indonesia who event of four Asian Development Tour can assist in bringing our national players to tournaments which are held in Indonesia. This represent our beloved “Merah-Putih” at the

Photography : YM Photography year’s tournament took place at Gunung Geulis Olympics.”

54 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 55 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | CORPORATE GOLF Photography : YM : YM Photography

56 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 57 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | TOURNAMENT J&G GOLF TAYLORMADE M3 & M4 LAUNCH Delivering Straight Distance

At Pondok Indah Driving Range on March 1, PT Mitra Adiperkasa launched the M3 & M4 metal woods. Featuring Twist Face technology, the driver delivers a corrective face angle when hit off-center for longer, straighter shots. Joey Chuasiriporn, Senior Product Manager TaylorMade Asia, said, “Usually, beginner golfers often experience swings that change, are not stable, and require clubs that are adjustable for the long term.” Therefore, Joey added, these two drivers have technology that can adjust to the golfer’s swing. The Indonesian TaylorMade ambassador, Rinaldi Adiyandono, admitted he could feel this. He said the Twist Face technology that exists on both drivers helps the shot fly straighter. "Both have the same technology. So when you hit the ball by driver heel, the ball will fly to the right. With this, the ball just is just a little bit [right]. Similarly, if you hit the tip of the face, the ball will not fly too far left," explained Rinaldi. The media and specially invited guests Luxuries Villa Hotel watched as Rinaldi demonstrated the M3 and M4 performance in a bay of the driving range. Banyan Tree Ungasan Bali *Single occupancy IDR 29.999.999.00,- 5 Stars Hotel XXIO X SERIES LAUNCH The Mulia Bali Resort The Longest Distance PACKAGE INCLUSIVE OF: *Single occupancy On January 25, PT Mitra Adiperkasa launched IDR 15.555.555.00,- • 3 Nights accomodation at selected Hotel of the 10th Generation the XXIO X Driver series at Golf House – Grand Indonesia. The event was attended by media and including breakfast for two persons special guests who were eager to listen to the review of • 2 Rounds of golf at Bali National Golf Club PACKAGE INCLUSIVE OF: the newly launched product. There are two models of & New Kuta Golf Club XXIO: Regular Model and Miyazaki Model which have • 3 Nights accomodation at selected Hotel • 4 Days Transportation for 12 hours of been available in stores since December. including breakfast for two persons Both drivers feature True-Focus Impact usage (Hi-Ace) • 2 Rounds of golf at Bali National Golf Club Technology; a synergy effect between the newly • Tax & Service developed shaft that promotes consistent body motion & New Kuta Golf Club during the swing to tighten impact point dispersion, • 4 Days Transportation for 12 hours of and the new head that maximizes COR performance usage (Hi-Ace) at the sweet spot. Compared to the previous XXIO 9 series, the XXIO X Driver adds five yards to the • Tax & Service Regular Model and three yards to the Miyazaki Model, InterContinental Bali Resort yielding the longest distance in the history of XXIO. As the new XXIO X Driver is available in the *Single occupancy Regular Model and also in Miyazaki Model which IDR 12.222.222.00,- offers a more penetrating trajectory with slightly For Booking Please Contact: heavier club weight, golfers with different playing styles T: ( 0251 ) 829 2629 Photography : YM | MAP : YM Photography PACKAGE INCLUSIVE OF: and swing speeds will find it attuned to their needs. P: Rima +62 816 103 024 Sheryl +62 816 842 196 • Minimum for 4 players 58 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE E: info@jggolf-bAPRre -a MAYks 2018.co OBm GOLF & LIFESTYLE 59 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | TOURNAMENT

JACK NICKLAUS INTERNATIONAL INVITATIONAL 2018 Two Best Friends to Meet the Legend

Nyoman Pasek Jiwandana was friends for so long that our chemistry is very For Andre, it is his second chance to meet overjoyed. After two years of failing strong and it helps us when we win at this the Golden Bear. Andre was the winner of the I to meet expectations, Jiwandana's tournament," said Alit. 2015 JNII and also the runner-up the 2015 third time was the lucky one at the Jack Alit, who has been friends with Andre for International Final Tournament of Champions Nicklaus International Invitational. Paired 17 years, admitted that their win was dramatic. in Ohio. with Andre Atmadja, Jiwandana, who is better He and Andre shot 5-under par for the last five The distributor of Jack Nicklaus apparel in known as Alit, won the Best Gross at the event. holes to win by a single stroke. Now the pair Indonesia, PT Trisula International, hosts the As a result of their success, Alit and Andre will proceed to the final where Alit will have yearly amateur tournament in Indonesia. The will compete in the 2018 International Final the unforgettable experience of meeting golf event is also held in five other countries - Italy, Tournament of Champions on May 29-June 2. legend Jack Nicklaus. , , Switzerland, United “I finally managed to win here after three “Just like every golf fan, meeting with one States, and Indonesia. consecutive years of participation. However, of the best golfers of all time is something this success was not separated from my really special. I also can watch a PGA Tour Photography : Jack Nicklaus Indonesia | YM Indonesia Nicklaus : Jack Photography playing partner, Andre. Andre and I have been event [The Memorial],” added Alit. Jl. Raya Sentul Sirkuit, No. 35 Rt.003/001, Leuwinutung, Citeurep, Bogor 16810 - Indonesia. T: 021-87953733 60 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 61 P: 08111180048 / 08121164085 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | Executive

Richard Mau is the recently elected Chairman of the Jakarta Hotel Association (JHA). Established 18 years ago, the JHA has 39 members. Having worked in the hospitality industry for almost 40 years, the new role will be a good challenge for Richard, who is Vice President of Hospitality for the Gesit Companies.

long with Association, he also manages We heard that you enjoy JS Luwansa is an official the JS Luwansa Hotel and Convention playing golf. What hotel of the Indonesian A Center and has always taken time to attracted you to the sport? Masters. What are your play golf as he finds it helps him release stress and As a hotelier, I spend most my day in a thoughts on the hotel’s tension from an active work schedule. building, talking to people, encouraging my involvement with golf Richard also believes, “Golf is a game that staff, engaging, and solving problems, making events? you have to play frequently, to keep all the sure we stay connected to our guests and different aspects of the game at a consistent level.” We are so fortunate to be the official hotel for clients. So for me, to leave the building, take Playing with an official handicap of 8, he humbly the the past four years. a walk, be out in nature, and the fresh air, it’s notes, “I think I’m more like 10 or 12. With my With our location and our facilities, the Indo- like a sanctuary. That’s why I love golf. While current game, it may be moving up.” nesian Masters provides us a great platform for I am not a gym person, I’d much rather go to In a casual conversation with OB Magazine, events regionally and globally because of the the course and get a brisk walk in, by playing Richard discussed his plans regarding the JHA, branding, co-branding, and the networking we the game. JS Luwansa’s involvement with golf events, and gain from being a partner. It also brings tour- chatted a little about golf as one of his favorite ism golfers who come to Jakarta to have the activities. opportunity to stay with us. Jakarta is still just So is it just that, the love in very beginning stages of developing a truly of fresh air and enjoying a robust golf tourism product. In my opinion, Ja- game? karta golf is still a best kept secret in to the world. That’s the physical aspect. The mental aspect is even more beneficial to me. Golf is not a Congratulations on your game of perfection as there are challenges selection as the Chairman to overcome and difficulties that we will What are the benefits to JS of the JHA. What does the individually, face on the course. Having to Luwansa as an official hotel position entail? face these obstacles are like the challenges we of Indonesian Masters? The Association represents many of the city’s face in life and the skill of navigating your way It’s an honor and pleasure for a newly opened finest four and five-star hotels. Basically, our through the recovery process is the beauty of local branded Indonesian hotel to have had responsibility is to keep the membership the game. this opportunity. To be aligned, on the same informed by communicating the different From the business perspective, Golf also platform with such established and global changes in government regulation that affects gives me an incredible opportunity to make sponsors from various banks, automotive the hospitality industry. Regulations regarding excellent business contacts as well. Golfers are companies, insurance companies and OB Golf taxation, wages, licensing and permitting usually senior level executives and business has been a great blessing. To be on the same processes are still evolving and changing as we leaders. By participating in select golf events, it stage with all of them, has been beneficial, well conduct our daily business activities. becomes efficient with time as the participants beyond hosting the event. come to you and are available for networking the next 5 hours. There are three benefits for me to play What plans do you have for the game: the physical health enjoyment, the What do you think about the the JHA? ability for it to mentally stimulate by keeping potential of golf tourism oneself challenged having to overcome the I would like to see us gain more visibility to for the hotel industry? difficulties faced, on the course, and a great what the association is and does. Primarily, Golfers are not only golfing, they also need professional networking opportunity. We we’re trying to be industry/government entertainment, shopping and dining. They can always tell a person’s true personality by collaborators on behalf of our members as well are also likely to have more discretionary their on course behavior and the business as be educational to the future of Indonesia’s funds than regular tourists. If they bring their opportunities we have gained at JS Luwansa, Richard Mau hospitality workforce by partnering with various wives, when they’re golfing, the wives will go have been immeasurable. It’s incredibly colleges, universities and other private sector shopping or to the spa, they will spend even Vice President of Hospitality valuable in all three ways. The JHA’s entities. We also participate in many charitable more money here. So actually, golf tourism is for the Gesit Companies and civic contributions as well. As a group a great opportunity to be further developed. and as individual hotels, we also market the These travelers are also on the upscale end of destination by continuing our promotional the spectrum. The Jakarta Golf experience is Photography : Private Doc. : Private Photography New Captain efforts nationally and abroad. second to none in all of South East Asia.

62 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 63 OUR NEIGHBORHOOD | Executive

Agung Budiman has How did Gunung Geulis then Being in a remote area, how do been on a long journey become 36 holes? you promote Gunung Geulis? Both Tourist in the world of golf. At first, we didn’t plan 36 holes. The West Many golfers say that Gunung Geulis is in Course development took five years because a remote location. However, I see this as an Agung Budiman Listening to his father’s the field was quite heavy. Construction began advantage for us. Gunung Geulis is located in Destination and advice at 10 years in 1987, and the West Course was completed a mountainous region that offers a cool and President Director of in 1992. When it opened, the West Course refreshing atmosphere, and it’s an atmosphere PT Mulia Colliman International old, Agung began to received a very positive response from the that makes golfers more relaxed. Therefore, we (Gunung Geulis Golf & Country Club) practice golf. He admits golfers. It was then we planned to build the want to be a tourist destination. We are trying Professional Venue next 18 holes. The East Course opened in to attract domestic golfers to come to Gunung that he didn’t initially 1996. We were actually planning to build a Geulis as this course provides facilities that are feel compelled to play. hotel on Gunung Geulis, but the crisis in 1997- the same as top golf courses in Southeast Asia. 1998 delayed the development. “You know, at that age, Gunung Geulis was a venue for the kids were attracted You finally built a hotel which Indonesian Golf Tour (2017) and to popular sports like opened in 2016. How do you Asian Development Tour (2016). manage both the golf course and This year, Gunung Geulis returns football and basketball,” hotel? as an IGT and ADT venue. What said Agung. We have a golf course and a hotel. However, we is your goal when hosting these only manage the golf course, while the hotel tournaments? is managed by Louvre Hotel Group with its Golf courses should be able to support brand name “Royal Tulip”. professional golf players, this is what we can s time went by though, he began to do. We also have the chance to promote the enjoy the sport and now, 25 years How do the course and hotel work new course and the hotel. In 2016, the ADT A on, Agung holds a single-digit together? played on the West Course, this year the ADT handicap and has realized that his father’s will play on the newly reopened East Course advice provided a purpose for him. The We try to bridge the golf course and the hotel which has been redesigned and renovated. Finance Marketing graduate of the Seattle needs. So far, we are continuing to study how University, USA, spoke to OB about his to run them together. Initially, we built the father’s ultimate goal for him, the story of hotel to accommodate the golfers who want to For 15 years now, you have held how 36-hole Gunung Geulis came to be, the stay longer in the Puncak area. However, guests an annual national amateur match course’s contribution to national golf, and the staying at the hotel are mostly non-golfers. play tournament. Why do you new design of the East Course We try to integrate golf packages with a stay or choose to do so? meetings with golf. This is what we are contin- uing to learn. In order to support national golf programs, we host a competitive tournament. We use match Why did your dad suggest you The East Course has been play format because this format is not played in any other major tournaments in Indonesia. play golf? redesigned and renovated. Could This tournament continues to evolve to The ultimate goal was I could manage the you tell us a little about that? increase the level of competition. We keep the golf course. When I started golfing in 1992, The initial design on the East Course had many match play format as it is the identity of the Gunung Geulis Golf (West Course), which drawbacks. The most common problems were tournament. was built by my father and grandfather, had poor irrigation and infrastructure. However, the just opened. Therefore, besides being able to main reason for the renovation was the safety play golf, I also learned about the management issue. The East Course is located beside the of the golf course. Cikeas River. This golf course is situated on the cliffs of the river. So, there were a lot of safety "Golf courses should Speaking of building Gunung hazards. If the Cikeas River is flowing very fast, Geulis, do you know why Bogor this can cause a lot of erosion. Therefore, we be able to support was chosen as the location? have changed several holes. The teeing ground professional golf that was at the top was moved to lower ground. The land prices in Bogor were cheaper than In addition to these erosion factors, we strive to players, this is what in Jakarta. At that time, the only golf course preserve the environment around the river as in Bogor was Jagorawi Golf & Country Club. well as possible. We have fixed the drainage and we can do." Then, Gunung Geulis was built. When the 18- its infrastructure in order to prevent landslides hole course opened, we used a female caddie. due to the water dropping too swiftly. We also Not many know that we were the first golf replaced the old grass with a new one and

Photography : YM | Royal Tulip Gunung Geulis Gunung Tulip | Royal : YM Photography course to use females as caddies. changed the greens and bunkers of several holes.

64 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 65 HERMES Arceau Casaque t TRAVEL | LABUAN BAJO The Gateway

ocated at the westernmost tip L of Flores island, Labuan Bajo is From a smallto fishing town,Komodo Labuan Bajo has grown into a the capital of the district of West Manggarai in West Nusa Tenggara Province, burgeoning tourist spot. People flock to the once-quiet area Indonesia. Labuan Bajo has become a hub from around the globe hoping to get a glimpse the world- for visitors wanting to explore the island’s interior and trying to catch a sighting of the famous Komodo dragons. giant lizards. Labuan Bajo lies within Komodo National Park which was declared a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1991. Komodo National Park encompasses the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Padar, along with several smaller islands, and the western part of Flores, plus the surrounding waters. The Park has helped to cultivate a comprehensive range of facilities and activities in the area for tourists to enjoy. Labuan Bajo has become popular not just with Dragon hunters but also as a destination for divers. Among its many assets, perhaps the most significant is Labuan Bajo’s spectacular natural scenery. Visitors can hike to one of the surrounding hills or mountains to enjoy a perfect panoramic view over the harbor and countless coastal islets edged with slivers of white sand that lead out to the expanse of glimmering azure water. The beauty of the area extends from the land to the depths of the ocean and for those wishing to explore the later, organizing a snorkeling or diving trip will be easy thanks to the numerous tour operators stationed in the town. Labuan Bajo is flourishing and becoming one of Indonesia’s brightest tourism jewels. In 2017, the city successfully hosted the Komodo Festival and Komodo Carnival. Thanks to all it has to offer, the Tourism Ministry has included Labuan Bajo in its 10 Priority Destinations program along with Lake Toba, Tanjung Kelayang, Tanjung Lesung, Thousand Islands, Borobudur Temple, Mount Bromo, Mount Photography : iStock Photography Semeru, Mandalika, Wakatobi and Morotai.

68 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 69 t TRAVEL | LABUAN BAJO

Places Liang Ndara Village

Located 750 meters above sea level, To Visit Liang Ndara has become a new destination for visitors to the area. The village offers both cultural and natural attractions for tourists. The Kanawa Island most famous attraction in Liang Ndara is the Caci Dance which is a Located around 15 km from local war dance. In addition to that, Labuan Bajo, the island of Kanawa Liang Ndara which is situated at is surrounded by coral reefs the foot of Mount Mbeliling, is also teeming with colorful fish. Its bordered by the Mbeliling Forest. turquoise waters are exceptionally Tourists can partake in several calm and clear. The island is the different activities here to explore most popular place to swim and and enjoy the natural environment. snorkel. This island, which is a hideaway from the already hidden, could be the only resort of this kind that fits the budget of backpackers.

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is dominated by three big islands: Komodo Island, Rinca Island, and Padar Island. The park covers a total of 2,321 Km2 of protected land and sea. UNESCO declared Kolo Komodo National Park as a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Kolo is a fried rice dish which is Reserve in 1991 since it is the natural habitat of the largest species typical of East Nusa Tenggara. The of living lizard in the world called the Komodo dragon. Aside from rice is mixed with cooking spices, Komodos, the stars of the area, Komodo National Park also offers then put in bamboo to bake over stunning views, crystal clear water, colored coral reefs, curious hot coals for about 30 minutes fish, giant bats, sun, and plenty of ways to work up a sweat. It’s the before serving. perfect combination for an unforgettable adventure trip. LOCAL FOOD

Pink Beach

When visiting Komodo, most tourists usually Sunu Fish take the time to visit the Pink Beach. This unique spot has become popular because of its pink tinged sand and underwater world which is caused by microscopic organisms called Sour Sauce Foraminifera which turn the reef here red and pink. Located on the Northeast side of Komodo This is a dish which displays the interesting culinary park at a place called Loh Liang, Pink Beach flavors of West Manggarai. Sunu fish is cooked in a sour is the perfect spot for relaxing, swimming, sauce that has a unique and exotic taste. The ingredients and snorkeling to discover the underwater for this dish are only available from the area, however,

Photography : iStock | breakingnews | utakatikotak | breakingnews : iStock Photography biodiversity. pre-made Sunu fish sour sauce is now sold worldwide.

70 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 71 t TRAVEL | COURSE REVIEW

Hole #9

Palm Hill Golf Club

Golf on the How to Get There Palm Hill Golf Club is located south of Jakarta. The course is reachable Riverbanks by the Jakarta-Jagorawi Toll Road, exiting at the Sentul Circuit. Getting ocated in the Sentul highlands and hole though, also coming into play on holes 5, 7, there takes around 35-40 minutes near the rainy city of Bogor, sits the 9 and 18. So, players must be careful to avoid it from Jakarta. L 18-hole Palm Hill Golf Club nestled either from the tee boxes or their landing areas. between the hills. Designed by Tom Matteson Over the last 5 years, the course has been a and developed by Japan’s Taisei Corporation, this popular venue for both amateur and professional friendly course offers a layout that allows players golf tournaments, such as the Ladies Indonesian FACTFILE to hit back stray shots from nearly every adjacent Open in 2012 and the Indonesian Golf Tour Designer: fairway. series, proving its quality as a championship Tom Matteson Like many of the courses in the Sentul and course. Holes/Par: Bogor region, Palm Hill is surrounded by hills Despite the numerous challenges put in that lead the eye away towards marvelous views front of you at Palm Hills, the club is the perfect 18 holes par 72 6,309 meters of the 1,500 meter high Mount Salak. The course place for an enjoyable and leisurely round of Status: is managed by Golflink Resorts Group, which golf amongst natural beauty that is populated Open For Play (1994) also run the New Kuta Golf Club, the 18 Hole by local flora and fauna. In addition to all of championship course in Pecatu, Bali. natures wonders, Palm Hills Golf Club boasts a Address: The most challenging hazard on this course somewhat famous and enchanting clubhouse. Sentul, Kadumanggu, is water, which tests the strategy and skill of With its large outdoor terrace areas and high Babakan Madang, Club players of all levels. A large lake divides the 9th ceilings indoors, the Spanish style clubhouse Bogor 16810, Jawa Barat, Indonesia hole and 18th hole while a natural boulder-rich offers an airy feeling and plenty of space to Phone: +62-21-87950712 river runs through the middle of the course and entertain large golf gatherings in the Links Email: [email protected] separates holes 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 from the restaurant or privately in the club’s banqueting, www.palmhillgolf.co.id other holes. Players must cross the water on holes meeting, and VIP facilities.

Photography : Palm Hill Golf Hill : Palm Photography 7, 11, 13 and 15. The water is never far from any

72 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 73 t TRAVEL | Chiang Mai

ocated in the northern area of Thailand, Chiang Mai is the L capital city of the province by the same name. Situated in the foothills of the mountains and surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, Chiang Mai serves as a base for most travelers who venture up north. Compared to Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a smaller city yet it presents an alluring alternative to the Thai capital. A picturesque downtown area easily navigated on foot, where the air is clean and the climate mercifully cool, is the atmosphere of Chiang Mai. Situated 700 km (435 miles) north of Bangkok in a verdant valley on the banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai, which is also known as "the Rose of the North", is a place where past and present merge as modern buildings stand side by side with temples. The city offers an abundance of culture, friendly locals, incredible food markets, a relaxed vibe, and serene landscapes. Founded in 1296 as the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chang Mai still holds on to traditional scenes in the old city that reflect its heritage. Meanwhile, to find the city’s modern side, head just beyond the center to student-hub Nimman Road, with its boutiques, galleries, coffee shops and a myriad of restaurants. While the city continues to grow, gradually speeding up the pace of life here, Chiang Mai is still a place of quiet charm, which provides a welcoming and relaxing experience for visitors that is far removed from the bustling, sometimes chaotic The experience of Bangkok. When to Go to Chiang Mai October to April is the most visitor-friendly time of year, with mild temperatures, cool Enchantment breezes, and little or no rain. Between March and May temperatures in Chiang Rose of the North Mai climb to their peak, while between June to October the monsoon brings There’s much more to Thailand than Bangkok and beaches. frequent heavy rainfall. It’s worth noting The country’s cities offer a broad array attractions and unique experiences. that accommodation rates can climb

Photography : iStock Photography considerably during the peak months of One such city is Chiang Mai. November to February.

74 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 75 t TRAVEL | Chiang Mai

Three Kings Monument

The monument is located in the center of Chiang Mai’s old city. It is a monument of the three founding kinds of Chiang Mai: King Mengria, who found Chiang Mai, King Ramkamhaeng of Sukhothai, and Places King Ngam Muang of Payao. These three kings constructed and built the Northern Thai city during the 13th century. The sculpture is an iconic landmark which to Visit celebrates the history of the city.

Chiang Mai’s Old City The old city of Chiang Mai shouldn’t be missed. It’s one of the few cities in Mae Ping River Cruise Thailand where the old walls are still mostly intact. Approximately 1.5 km2 The river cruise offers trips along the of fascinating streets to be explored are cool waters of the Ping River, one of the contained within the old walls. There are main rivers in northern Thailand and the four gateways to enter the old city. Thapae lifeline of Chiang Mai. The ever-changing Gate, located on the eastern shore facing riverbank scenes that show rural life the Ping River, is usually the starting point on the river shores and impressive teak for tourists. wooden houses are framed by stunning rural greenery. It is an ideal activity for the tourist who enjoys taking a relaxing and effortless look at the city, even if just for a moment.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Located in the Himalayan mountain range, with an elevation ranging between 800 to 2565 meters, Doi Inthanon covers an area of 482 km². The national park has many interesting attractions, including Elephant Nature Park cultural highlights such as the King's and Queen's chedis and tribal villages, One of the first sanctuaries as well as the natural wonders for rescued elephants in present in this popular northern Chiang Mai, Elephant Thai landmark such as Wachiritham Nature Park is located Waterfalls. During late January and approximately 40 miles February, the park offers a seasonal from Chiang Mai. Visitors attraction: the blossoms of Siamese can spend the day feeding, sakura flowers covering trees in pink. swimming with, and walking The park is also one of top destination alongside the contented herd

Photography : iStock Photography in the country for bird watchers. in their 200-acre habitat.

76 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE 77

t TRAVEL | COURSE REVIEW

Chiang Mai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort A “Must-Play” Course Outside the City Opened in 2005, Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort features a magnificent 27-hole championship golf course.

Hole #8

ocated in the foothills east of of the surrounding mountains from every Chiang Mai, the course provides hole. FACTFILE L tranquility, high elevation, a cool In addition to the course, Chiang Designer: climate, fresh air, pure water, and fertile soil, Mai Highlands also offers a small on-site Lee Schmidt (Schmidt-Curley Design) with the additional pleasure of magnificent Thai resort with private cottages for those Holes: mountain views on every hole. Even before wanting to stay in the countryside and play 27 holes arriving at Highlands, you will be fascinated multiple rounds of golf. by the exceptionally beautiful landscape en- Within just a few years, Chiangmai Par/Yardage : Valley: 36/ 3,417 & Highlands: 36/3,610 & route, passing rice fields and plantations that Highlands has established its name on the Mountain: 36/ 3,522 run away into the mountains. international golf map as one of the best golf Chiang Mai Highlands was designed by experiences in Asia. The course has won Status: Lee Schmidt of Schmidt-Curley Design from several prestigious awards. In 2007 Asian Open for play (2005) the USA. Schmidt-Curley Design is the team Golf Monthly voted Chiang Mai Highlands Address: responsible for Mission Hills, Amata Spring, Golf & Spa Resort as #3 for "Best New 167 Moo 2 Onuar, Mae On, Chiang Mai Siam CC, amongst other top golf courses in Golf Course in Asia". In 2013, Chiang Mai 50130. Thailand Asia. Highlands was awarded the title of "Best Phone: (International) +66 53 261354 to 9 The par-72 and par-36 courses are Value for Money Golf Course in Asia” by Phone: (Local) 053 261354 to 9 integrated harmoniously into the landscape the same publication. The course was also Mobile Phone: (International) +66 81 961 0028 with challenging designs. Peppered with selected as one of the three “Best Golf Mobile Phone: (Local) 081 961 0028 around 130 bunkers, that are deep and Resorts in Asia” in 2015. Fax: (International) +66 53 261363 demanding, and the large and undulating Chiang Mai Highlands offers one of Fax: (Local) 053 261363 greens, the course pushes players of any level the best golf experiences in Thailand and E-mail: [email protected] to position their ball carefully. Players are is a must-play course while you’re visiting www.chiangmaihighlands.com

Photography : Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort Spa Golf and Highlands Mai : Chiang Photography rewarded for their efforts with striking views Chiang Mai.

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Apr - May 2018

80 APR - MAY 2018 OB GOLF & LIFESTYLE

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