Adam Scott Steve StrickerJason Dufner Webb Simpson

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Long Thanh-Vientiane Golf Club playing on a US$100 million golf supermarket, restaurants and a is a rare gem in the exotic Lao development fit for kings. host of other facilities. People’s Democratic Republic. Long Thanh-Vientiane Golf Club is If you’d like to experience a Known to most of the outside planned as a 36 hole course and leisurely round of golf in a natural world as Laos, this is an ancient is part of a mega US$1 billion and beautiful setting, this is land that was once a royal multi-project development plan a facility that must be on your kingdom between the 14th to that will include golf residences, golfing schedule. the 18th Century. Imagine a five-star hotel, hospital,,

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KN VIENTIANE GROUP CO., LTD: Km 17 Thadeau Road, Dongphosy Village, Hatsaiphon District, Vientiane Capital, Laos P.D.R Tel: (856) 21. 33 50 08 Email: [email protected] COVER STORY ƒ10

JULY 2014 ISSUE 166 „SPECIAL FEATURES

18 Master Shoe Makers: ECCO – Innovation Without Compromise! Dramatic as it may seem, what you are about to read is ECCO is proud to claim that it is the only major shoe company to own and an adventure which involves the real life experience of a manage every step of the production process, from tannery to retail. For young lady who managed to break the glass ceiling at one a detailed insight to the brand, read this exclusive interview with Michael of the world’s most revered and hallowed multi-national Waack. corporations and bolt up the corporate ladder to take control 22 2014 U.S. Women’s Open: Glamour + Brains + Skill = Victory! of the seat of power at a multi-million dollar global empire. Finally, Michelle Wie, the Stanford-educated beauty from Hawaii has vindicated herself. She is the total package. And by winning the 2014 U.S. Women’s Open she has silenced all of her critics once and for all! 44 An Indonesian Kid Called George – A Real Comer! 24 Change The Game: Golf – The History Of Change Asian Golf is always on the look-out for young talent throughout the region A new organisation on the golf landscape is the U.S. Recreational Golf Asso- and the spotlight this time around focuses on a golfer who is turning heads ciation (USRGA). Its primary focus is to help grow recreational golf and serve in the third most populous nation on the planet. the needs of recreational golfers and the recreational golf community. 46 Lucy Li – A Tiny Gal With So Much Power! 28 Asian Tour-OneAsia Saga - Is The Venom Losing Its Potency? We are seeing more and more babies who should still be in the care of nan- The history of the professional golf circuit in Asia has been mired in a lot of nies instead of taking on the best professionals in the game. Check out the intrigue and misgivings virtually from the day the professional game was stir little Lucy created at the U.S. Women’s Open. introduced to Asia. The two main adversaries are the Asian Tour, the tour which claims to be the sole custodian of the professional game and the up- 48 PING’s Point Of View: The Proof Is In Performance start OneAsia Tour that proclaims itself to be the million-dollar play maker. In a special farewell article, John K. Solheim reflects on his stay in Asia. According to him, PING has seen a lot of success during this time, and he 30 Tinsel Town Comes To Mission Hills considers Asia to be the best opportunity for growing PING’s business and Mission Hills in China is a name that is probably known to golfers the world the game of golf. over. It is known to be the biggest golf resort on the planet with a total of 22 world class golf courses spread out 52 Grow The Game: Custom Fitting... Who Benefits? over two facilities on Shenzhen and Dongguan on As part of our effort to grow the game of golf and to introduce the element the Chinese mainland and Haikou on the off-shore of fun into golf, Asian Golf will be partnering with various industry leaders to island of Hainan. It now adds a new dimension to its bring our readers timely tips and advice. We kick off this special service with attractions. a column written by Jennifer King, President of KZG – the acknowledged global leader in custom fitted golf clubs. 34 Back9Network – A Real Game Changer! Have not heard about Back9Network? Well, this 58 2014 APGS: APAC’s Most Prestigious Golf Awards Announced won’t stay that way for too long! The The prestigious Asia Pacific Golf Hall of Fame was started in 2010 by the fledgling organization has been Asia Pacific Golf Group and its primary objective is to recognise individuals hard at work for the past four who have contributed to the growth of golf in the Asia Pacific region. The years building a broad-based inductees for 2014 are revealed in this issue. communications platform aimed at promoting all 62 APGS 2014: Cut Out The Lip Service – Invest In Juniors Now! aspects of life-styles with World class speakers are now being lined up for the 2014 Asia Pacific golf as its central theme. Golf Summit (APGS) and looking at the experts being lined up, the event Effective September, it will promises to be one of the best staged so far in the series. APGS 2014 will be enjoy full carriage rights staged at the iconic and ultra-modern Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore through DirectTV. on November 14 – 15

ƒ44 ISSUE 166 JULY 2014 ƒ38 ƒ 42 „ASIAN GOLF TOURISM 54 Just Fancy This – Golf In Inner Mongolia? Well, we are not pulling your legs! We are stone cold serious because Asian Club Business has been granted an exclusive preview of a golf course that opens for play this month in Inner Mongolia.

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„EQUIPMENT FOCUS 38 Mantis Golf: Mantis Creeps Into Asia A newcomer to the putter business is Mantis Golf. This young American upstart, founded in 2012 is launching in Japan which is arguably one of the most demanding and challenging golf markets to break into. 40 Wilson 8802 Putter: An Old Classic Re-Visited The proverb “old is gold” has a very special relevance to the product that we are going to discuss in a moment. In the classical sense, “old is gold” essentially means that whatever is old is actu- ally valued as gold. Now, let’s cut to the product under review – ƒ68 the classic Wilson 8802 putter. 42 New Products An introduction to a collection of some of the latest golf products available throughout the region. „REGULARS 6 Asian Golf Editorial Team 7 Shared Thoughts | From Publisher 72 Next Issue „GAME-IMPROVEMENT 66 Black Hat Tips: The St. Louis Arch One of the landmarks that that coach Tony Meechai promotes in his teaching is the world renowned St. Louis Arch. Check out how he uses this monument to teach golf. 68 Pro Tour Golf College: How To Get Into The Low Golf Score Zone Consistently This Easy to Learn Method Will Take Your Game into the Low Golf Score Zone ƒ58 More Often

MIKE SEBASTIAN ANGELA RAYMOND Chief Executive Officer/Managing Editor President [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ]

LAWRENCE YOUNG ALICE HO Editor (New Equipment) Marketing Executive [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ]

RAQUEL M. ARCEGA SAIFUL SUFIAN Art Director & Ezine Development Art Director [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ]

MYRA PARAS WAYNE LWEE Finance Video Editor/Streaming services [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ]

MEDIA PARTNERS Photographers GETTY IMAGES

Contributing Professionals IMG ACADEMY, TONY MEECHAI, CHRIS SMEAL, DAVID MILNE & LAWRIE MONTAGUE (PRO TOUR GOLF COLLEGE), NICK RANDALL, STEVEN GIULIANO http://back9network.com Correspondents ROBIN BARWICK (EUROPE), RISHI NARAIN (INDIA)

Contributing Editors TERRY ANTON, ALAN CAMPBELL, KATHERINE ROBERTS, AAERISHNA SHAHSTHY

Printer SPECTRUM ZONE INTERNATIONAL PTE LTD [ Blk 1022 Tai Seng Avenue, #02-3528 Tai Seng Industrial Estate Singapore 534415 ] INTERNATIONAL ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Address ASIA PACIFIC GOLF GROUP (2014) PTE LTD Contact: Mike Sebastian Suite 06-06 Hong Aik Building, 22 Kallang Avenue, Singapore 339413 Email: [email protected] Tel: +65 6323 2800 Fax: +65 6323 2838 Company Registration No: 201405689G or Mobile No: +65 9152 8162

To SubscribeMVYWYPU[VYKPNP[HSPZZ\LZVM(ZPHU.VSMLTHPSHSPJL'HZPHWHJPÄJNVSMNYV\WJVT or register for a free preview at ^^^HZPHWHJPÄJNVSMNYV\WJVT

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THIS MAGAZINE HAS BEEN PRINTED ON PAPER WHICH IS DERIVED FROM 100 PER CENT SUSTAINABLE PLANTATION FIBRE AND 06 07 ASIAN GOLF MANUFACTURED IN A FACILITY THAT HAS BEEN CERTIFIED TO ISO-14001 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM STANDARDS. From The Publisher SHAREDGAMEGAME IMPROVEMENIMPROVEMENT THOUGHTS T BLACKBLACK HATHAT GGOLFOLF TTIPSIPS

Thongchai Jaidee Hideki Matsuyama

he month of June witnessed story-book Victor Dubuisson to lift the Nordea Masters – finishes in major international golf his sixth European title. In the field was world tournaments where Asian golfers put second-ranked Henrik Stenson who finished T on a show that proved they possess the fifth behind Jaidee. right stuff to win against the world’s best. And Park’s win was sensational as the win Three Asian golfers beat world class fields was her first LPGA Tour title in more than 11 on both sides of the pond and their achieve- months. This victory came as sweet revenge as ments were reason enough for all of Asia to she had just lost her world number one spot a shut down to celebrate Thongchai Jaidee’s week before to Stacy Lewis. win at the Nordea Masters in Sweden, Hideki What we now need to see is more spec- Matsuyama’s crushing win at the Memorial tacular wins by Asians on the world’s major and Inbee Park’s come-from-behind win at the tours. Victory on these stages will provide Manulife Financial Classic. validation that Asian players are getting up These are major historical milestones to to world standards and this can only have a have three Asians win on the PGA Tour and the very positive and motivating effect hope- European Tour the LPGA Tour. fully resulting in more Asians taking to the Matsuyama obliterated a star-studded field game of golf. to lay claim to Jack Nicklaus’ tournament at the Asia needs its own heroes in golf and Memorial. those heroes are beginning to surface. Meanwhile what Jaidee did was plain awe- The continent has momentum and let’s some. The Thai super-star won a playoff involv- see how we can drive this momentum to ing Stephen Gallacher of Scotland and France’s reach greater heights on the world stage! Inbee Park

08 09 ASIAN GOLF

SPORTY

EXTERIOR. CUSTOM-ENGINEERED INTERIOR. On the outside, the new i25TM adjustable driver says performance and control. Inside, the multi-material driver has the horsepower to match. A CG positioned low and back reduces spin and delivers an extremely high MOI for forgiveness while stabilizing launch conditions to give you the distance you demand. To get the perfect Lightweight hosel: ÀWZHRIIHUWKH3:5VKDIWIDPLO\²VKDIWVHQJLQHHUHGE\ZHLJKWWR Adjustability with no help keep you in the fairway. Of course, there’s a lot more to it, so loss of performance. WHVWGULYHRQHDW\RXU3,1*)LWWLQJ6SHFLDOLVWRUYLVLWSLQJFRP

‹3,1*32%2;3+2(1,;$= COVER STORY Golf’s Iron Lady

10 11 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 166 JULY 2014

For a moment, allow your mind’s eye to visualize the shattering of glass and a [OV\ZHUKZOHYKZJVTLJYHZOPUNKV^U[V[OLÅVVY+YHTH[PJHZP[TH`ZLLT^OH[ you are about to read is an adventure which involves the real life experience of a young lady who managed to break the glass ceiling at one of the world’s most revered and hallowed multi-national corporations and bolt up the corporate ladder [V[HRLJVU[YVSVM[OLZLH[VMWV^LYH[HT\S[PTPSSPVUKVSSHYNSVIHSLTWPYL COVER STORY Golf’s Iron Lady

his special feature is a celebration of her ex- comparatively low profile entry into the company when she traordinary achievements and the brand that joined as the U.S. general manager of Nike Golf in 2005. She she proudly represents. The lady represents came to the company with a hugely impressive track record the physical embodiment of the Greek god- after serving in senior management positions at The Golf dess of victory, Nike. Channel, the Arnold Palmer Company and the LPGA. She may not be a house-hold name like In a short span of three years, her pedigree and leader- Tsome of the mega celebrities under her charge but her ship qualities were recognized and rewarded when she was presence in the multi-billion dollar golf industry is a seri- appointed the President of Nike Golf in 2008. ous force to reckon with. Her impressive stable of iconic athletes include Tiger Woods, arguably the greatest golfer alive and Rory McIlroy, a huge star on the rise. Cindy Davis – Golf’s Iron Lady The brand that she rules over is Nike Golf, a company that was spun off as a separate corporate entity in 1998. “Hello Cindy” – Asia welcomes you! When she took over the reins of Nike Golf, there was no “Hello World” meet-the-boss blitz like what marked Tiger’s Albeit, a tad late but this does not in any introduction to the world back in 2006. Instead, it was a way detract or dilute the importance and impact that you have made in the world of golf so far. It is our contention that the best is yet to come and under Davis’ watch, the groundwork is being laid for Nike Golf to ultimately become the out- right leader in golf – the company that is the future of golf!

Davis is a lady and a leader with a tremendous passion for the game of golf and this passion played out during an exclusive interview that she granted to ASIAN GOLF – a ses- sion where she graciously answered every question that we threw at her. The following is the full interview with Davis: “We’re investing more in developing products that are geographically specific, signing regional athletes and de- veloping targeted go-to-market strategies that resonate with each golfer. I also believe that we can play a role in growing the sport of golf as we’ve done that in other sports around the world.”

Before we get into the the Brand that can move the sport of golf You have proven beyond a serious business end of this forward. That’s what we expect of ourselves shadow of a doubt that you interview what was it like and that’s what the golfer expects of us. I HYLTHKLVM[OLYPNO[Z[\MM for you to take charge of a high wanted to be part of making that happen. to lead Nike Golf in a highly WYVÄSLJVTWHU`PUHUPUK\Z[Y`[OH[PZ Nike is an amazing company because it puts JVTWL[P[P]LPUK\Z[Y`0U[OLZP_`LHYZ so deeply entrenched in tradition and the athlete first and insists on challenging that you have been with Nike Golf, PUTHU`^H`ZKPZJYPTPUH[VY`[V^HYKZ everything. That approach frames our in- how do you look back on how the ^VTLU& novation, our business and our workforce. JVTWHU`OHZMHYLKNSVIHSS`& Cindy Davis: I joined Nike Golf nearly 10 We prioritize and celebrate diversity and CD: We have so much opportunity ahead of years ago because I knew our Brand, un- inclusion at Nike – and, that has certainly us, in every market. That’s what is so excit- like any other, could change golf. We are translated to our golf business and team. ing for Nike Golf. The Asia market in par-

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ticular is a part of the world where I believe infrastructure, we believe our business ingredients for success are in place we’ve only scratched the surface. We’re outside of North America, and specifically in in huge doses – against this investing more in developing products Asia, will grow at a faster rate. backdrop, how would you mark up that are geographically specific, signing the corporation’s report card to date? Nike Golf is a corporation regional athletes and developing targeted CD: We are enormously proud of what we’ve go-to-market strategies that resonate with with a strong resource base, a pool of very accomplished in a relatively short time in the each golfer. I also believe that we can play golf business. Our innovations, products, talented people and a critical mass of a role in growing the sport of golf as we’ve brand experiences and retail expressions are done that in other sports around the world. some of the best athletes in the the best in the business. However, at Nike, Given the global nature of our Brand and business. Your products are without we don’t judge ourselves by our competi- our ability to leverage the Nike worldwide doubt top draw equipment. All the tion. We judge ourselves by our potential. COVER STORY Golf’s Iron Lady

That’s why we know that we’ve only just be- state right now with Tiger playing Nike because they know the best athletes in gun to make an impact in the golf industry more of an “elder statesman” role any sport are with the Swoosh. That’s why - our opportunities are endless. while Rory steps up to the plate as Tiger first joined us and that’s certainly why the heir apparent? Rory, Suzann Pettersen, Michelle Wie and Your athletes have the others have since. We have a proven record CD: Tiger is an iconic athlete and always will largest pull factor on a of supporting athletes through innovation be. He is a key part of Nike Golf’s growth. He’s global basis – this was to perform their very best. It’s the same in a lot of the reason Nike entered the golf busi- evidenced at the recently concluded golf. That was evident recently by Seung Yul ness. We are incredibly excited now to have U.S. Masters where TV ratings were when he won his first PGA TOUR event where both Tiger and Rory on our team. Both bring down arguably due to the Tiger tremendous electricity to the sport. Tiger is he said, “You want to be associated with the no-show. Based on this premise, arguably the greatest golfer of all time. He is best and I believe that Nike is the number there is no denying that Nike Golf awe-inspiring and has created some of the one company. You have athletes like Tiger athletes command huge fan respect most memorable moments in golf – and, he’s Woods, Rory McIlroy, Roger Federer, Rafael and have the greatest impact on golf. not done yet. Having Rory further elevates Nadal and Maria Sharapova using Nike, so This must be good for your business the credibility of our products. Rory fits our being at a Company with those athletes is – your comments? brand. He’s young. He’s athletic. He’s inspiring. great. With Nike I believe that I can reach my Bottom line, we are thrilled to have two of the goal of being number one.” CD: At Nike, we believe if you have a body, best athletes in the world as part of Nike Golf. you are an athlete. Everything we do starts The quest for product with the athlete. We gain insights to develop You currently have a very excellence seems to be a product. We support their performances to large team of athletes, never ending pursuit at Nike enable them to reach their true potential. perhaps the largest of any Golf. Your teams at “The Oven” at We challenge everything we do to make athletes better. We were founded on those company and a good percentage are Fort Worth and the “Oven West” are principles. It’s fundamental to who we are young. This augurs well for the future always working on something new and what we do at Nike. We drive innovation especially when you consider that on and something exciting. That said, and inspiration – and the athlete is at the any given day, any of these young your 2014 line-up of equipment, heart of it. As such, we have a front row seat men and women will be capable of apparel and accessories must

to some of the most amazing performances hitting a home run on tour, thus KLÄUP[LS`Z[HJR\WHZ[OLILZ[[V in all of sport and in all of golf. In a short providing validation for the quality have come out from the company. We time, our Brand already has won many Major and excellence of your equipment. think so – would you agree? Championships and professional tourna- Would you agree? ments worldwide. That enables us to tell CD: Our innovation and product line-up has some exciting stories and evoke an emotion CD: We have the strongest stable of athletes never been better. For us, innovation and in a way that only Nike can. The successful in the history of Nike Golf. It’s a nice mixture design is at the epicenter of everything we business results, of course, then follow. of the world’s best players like Tiger, Rory and do. We obsess over every detail. We merge Charl Schwartzel, combined with veteran technology and design in a way that only Talking about your star stars like Paul Casey and young rising stars Nike can. Whether it’s Dri-Fit and Themo Fit athletes, do you think that like Russell Henley and Seung Yul Noh, to materials in apparel, or Lunarlon cushioning you are in a transitional name just a few. All of our athletes are with and free-inspired outsole technologies in

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“All of our athletes are with Nike because they know the best athletes in any sport are with the Swoosh. That’s why Tiger first joined us and that’s certainly why Rory, Suzann Pettersen, Michelle Wie and others have since. We have a proven record of supporting athletes through in- novation to per- form their very best.” TIGER WOODS

SUZANN PETTERSEN RUSSELL HENLEY MICHELLE WIE footwear, or Covert cavity back technology One stand-out quality of in trust. We spend a lot of time understand- in metalwoods, and RZN core technologies Nike Golf relates to product ing what golfers need and want so that in golf ball, at Nike we push the boundar- life cycle. You don’t seem to we can bring innovations to market that make them better – no matter what type ies. We imagine something nobody else have been sucked into the frenetic imagines. We build something nobody else of golfer they may be. We also understand pace of new product releases that that golfers are discerning and will educate builds. We improve something that no one has become common-place in the themselves on new product purchases – and, else thinks needs improving. If it’s good industry. Why is this so? they should. In fact, we know that the more enough, then we know we must make it CD: At Nike Golf, we continue to believe that a golfer understands, tries and experiences better. And, we’ll continue to do that – in innovation should drive product introduc- our product, the more success they will fact, we can’t wait to share what’s planned tions. We also believe that the best relation- experience with their game – we hear it all of for 2015. ships with the consumer are ones grounded the time. But, trust is equally important, the COVER STORY Golf’s Iron Lady

golfer wants to know that you stand behind under the Rules of Golf does not need to consumer experiences are unmatched. But, your innovation and aren’t going to launch change for golf to grow. That can and should leadership isn’t a given in any business. You a new product unless you know that it is still exist. However, complementing golf have to stay committed to the consumer and discerningly better than the previous one. by legitimizing the 9-hole experience with continue to know and serve them better than We take that relationship of trust with the handicaps and competitions or by creat- anyone. golfer seriously. ing other non-traditional experiences to Let’s end this session with introduce people to golf such as Foot Golf or Let’s change the focus and some positive thoughts. alternative products and courses is healthy look at the state of the and, frankly, necessary. If we let go of our Sixteen years have gone by game. In the developed fears and align as an industry to do this well, – do you feel that Nike Golf is now West, the game is generally in not only will new experiences be created for poised to becoming the global leader decline. We don’t quite know the consumers to be exposed to the 18-hole golf in golf? state in Asia as we have no statistics experience, but new growth opportunities CD: It’s just a matter of time before our or reliable trends to base a judgment will be developed for both current and new Brand is the outright leader in golf. on. Gut feel tells us that the game is industry stakeholders. No one could have articulated the future also in a state of recession in Asia. of Nike Golf better than Davis. She has a What can major industry players like The Nike Corporation has fervent belief that Nike is really the company Nike Golf do to bring about change to done so much to boost so of the future in golf. She backs this up by the game? We need to reach out to many other sports and with declaring that Nike is a product company “At Nike Golf, we continue to believe that innovation should drive product introductions. We also believe that the best rela- tionships with the consumer are ones grounded in trust.”

more people; bring on more people; this sort of pedigree, bringing about first that can take care of a golfer from head make the game more exciting, change to golf should prove to be a to toe and treat golfers as athletes and that affordable and accessible and most cinch. What do you think? it will continue to push boundaries to seek revolutionary products across all of its busi- importantly, the game needs to CD: We view ourselves as a catalyst for nesses. engage with the Gen Xers, Gen Y’s change in every sport, including golf. The Davis has set the wheels of progress in and the Millennials. Your thoughts? consumer expects Nike to lead because our motion and there is only one way to go – to CD: Innovation is critical in every industry Brand is a symbol of performance leadership. become the outright leader in golf. She has whether it’s through products or experi- We believe in many ways that we’ve already the future in her hands and as the most ences. It’s the same in golf – and, it can be served as a catalyst for change within golf. powerful lady in golf, she has everything at done without compromising the sport as Our innovations are distinctive. Our storytell- her disposal to make Nike Golf the best in we know it today. Eighteen holes of golf ing is the most inspiring and memorable. Our class!

16 17 ASIAN GOLF Golfers Paradise

Come and Discover Whath Playing Golf in Paradised Really Feels Like

Long Thanh Golf Resort is a true paradise for populated by a wide array of flora and fauna. any golfer. Golfing in Long Thanh Golf Resort is an experience Two world-class golf courses – one that traverses of world-class golf combined with a unique brand of hilly terrain while the other meanders through service and the warmth and friendliness of Vietnam. spectacular lakes. All this delivered in a tranquil setting located in Both the Hill Course and the Lake Course are the southern economic triangle and just 40 minutes fascinating showcases of breath-taking landscapes from Ho Chi Minh City’s centre.

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

www.longthanhgolfresort.com

National Highway 51, Tan Mai 2 Hamlet, Phuoc Tan Village, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam Tel: +84 61 3 512 512 Fax: +84 61 3 512 513 SPECIAL FEATURE Master Shoe Makers

It’s strange how an entire business is born out of one man’s dream. We kick off this special feature on ECCO – the famous Danish brand name in golf shoes – by re-visiting the dream of the man who single-handedly gave ECCO the kick-start back in 1963.

The man behind the brand was Karl Toosbuy. His dream was to own a shoe factory and to run his own business. This was a skill that he had been trained for from an early age as a shoe-maker. Toosby broke out on his own with his `V\UN^PMLHUKHÄ]L`LHYVSKKH\NO[LY^OVUV^PZ[OLJOHPYTHUVM,**6 and started his journey as shoe entrepreneurs. They sold their house and moved to a border town close to northern German, rented a small house, took over an empty factory and started what is today the giant ECCO brand.

Toosby certainly showed a lot of spunk, determination and the will to succeed. He essentially set the standards for ECCO from the get-go which is founded on the fervent belief of “innovation without compromise”.

:VTLÄM[``LHYZOH]LZPUJLSHWZLKHUK[OLKYLHTHUK vision that Toosby had has grown ECCO into a global force in quality footwear. It is a company that has been built on the philosophy that “shoes must follow the foot”. ECCO is proud to claim that it is the only major shoe company to own and manage every step of the production process, from tannery

ck to retail. This is supported by state-of-the- Michael Waa art research and development centres in Denmark and Portugal.

18 19 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 166 JULY 2014 SPECIAL FEATURE Master Shoe Makers

oosby would be a proud man to be DTS outsole. That turned the industry upside lot of people buying our shoes. around today to witness how his down and remains at the heart of all the Of course, there’s the global hybrid move- dream has grown and prospered hybrid shoes we make today. The second is ment we pioneered with Golf Street in 2010. over the years to become a true the Natural Motion technology found in our Then it was being the first to launch a Natural T Motion shoe, BIOM Golf in 2011. We combined global force. To find out how ECCO has grown BIOM Golf and BIOM Hybrid models for men as a global brand, ASIAN GOLF obtained an and women. To bring this to market, we spent the two concepts in 2012 with BIOM Hybrid, exclusive session with Michael Waack, Head several years working with leading indepen- which we consider the original “performance of Global Golf at ECCO. The following are the dent scientists in the field of biomechanics. hybrid” shoe. Then, we extended the category highlight of that discussion: We actually scanned the feet of 2,500 athletes again in 2013 with Tour Hybrid, which was the to create the ideal anatomical last shape. first hybrid shoe with a classic upper. ECCO is a company that has While these have been relatively recent invested some 51 years The modern game of golf has developments, our role as a trend-setter actu- studying the human foot. That’s evolved tremendously over ally goes back to the early years of ECCO Golf a long time devoted to just one part of the the years in terms of power, when we pioneered the use of bright colours. human anatomy. Let’s start by establish- speed and performance at both the This started with our women’s collection and ing how these studies have impacted the amateur and professional levels. How then transferred into our men’s styles. It’s design of shoes for golf today? has ECCO addressed these changes? funny when you think how common bright Michael Waack: It’s indeed a long time, MW: At the time we entered the market, shoes are these days, but it was very novel 51 years, but all the energy and resources “performance” was a word that was never back then! we’ve devoted to studying the human foot used to describe golf shoes. Obviously, that’s have allowed us to develop a keen under- changed and it’s now a requirement for Golf Street shoes were a trend standing how it functions. That’s at the core many players. Certainly, we played a big role that ECCO created and now of our philosophy, which is making shoes in that because our shoes have always been every player in the trade has that are shaped to fit the foot, not the other made using the direct injection Process. followed a trend that ECCO started. This way around. Of course, that sounds logical, This is the most advanced process anyone must come as a source of both pride and but it’s actually not a common approach to employs to produce golf shoes. It results in satisfaction? shoemaking! As to how constant research a very high-performance product and con- MW: Golf Street has really been an amazing has impacted our designs, it’s what’s led to tributes to many of the areas most important product for us, and it started as a vision in the all of the game changing technologies we’ve to amateurs and pros when they choose head of ECCO CEO Dieter Kasprzak. He’s a pioneered since 1996, when we made our footwear. These notably include torsional passionate golfer and shoe designer by trade. very first pair of golf shoes. stability, grip, flexibility and durability. So in addition to his role with the ECCO busi- nesses as a whole, he also personally directs Based on the reservoir of You take great pride in the the design of every golf shoe we make. When knowledge that ECCO fact you don’t chase trends he sees magazine articles like those that possesses on the human foot, but instead create trends. have named Golf Street one of the biggest what have been some of the most Give us a sense of some of the trends golf innovations of the past 25 years, you distinctive changes in golf shoe designs that ECCO has created? can imagine how that puts a smile on as far as ECCO is concerned? MW: Creating trends isn’t something we set his face. Of course, pride in some- MW: We’re proud to have ushered in many out to expressly accomplish, we just try and thing that’s happened doesn’t stop industry changes since starting in golf, but make the best, most comfortable, high-per- us from always pursuing the two really rise to the top. The first, of course, formance shoes in styles that we ourselves next great idea. We’re driving is the ECCO Street featuring our patented E- want to wear. Fortunately, this has led to a toward that every day.

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“Creating trends isn’t something we set out to expressly ac- complish, we just try and make the best, most comfortable, high- performance shoes in styles that we ourselves want to wear.”

There is ming the midsole, working to bring players area has allowed us to bring some exotic obviously closer to the ground, adjusting the traction leather types into our golf collection, includ- no denying system, etc. We’ve also got some cool things ing camel leather and yak leather, which each that as the originator of in development and are excited to share them have outstanding performance properties. with you in the coming seasons. the Golf Street trend you One thing that is very have gone on to further Your Tour franchise continues apparent with ECCO is that improve and innovate on this to look elegant and classic. you are very focused in the product line? Talk about the Again, how has this franchise types of golf shoes you produce. The evolution of this product type? evolved over time? emphasis seems to be on comfort and MW: In a lot of markets, roughly half of MW: Elegant and classic is an excellent way performance and you seem to limit the all rounds are played by golfers wearing to describe our Tour Hybrid line. Because number of models in each product hybrid shoes. When you consider that this those are its characteristics, we’ve really category. Is this part of your strategy category of footwear didn’t exist prior to 2010, focused on expanding more than evolving it which is distinctively different to the that stat is just amazing. So, we look at Golf the past two seasons. This will continue to be other companies? Street as the initial step in an ongoing process our focus moving forward. MW: Karl Toosbuy, who founded ECCO, was that’s more of a movement than a trend. As a real visionary and had some outstand- What would you describe as a movement, season after season its power ing wisdom that he shared with us. Among the strengths of ECCO in what has only increased as we’ve launched new these was his mission not to try and be the is fast becoming a very innovations atop the patented E-DTS outsole. biggest, but to be the best. So, our approach competitive field? BIOM Hybrid, Tour Hybrid and BIOM Zero each likely differs from other companies, but the MW: It’s definitely a competitive market, but moved the ball further down the fairway. For scale of our collection isn’t rooted in a desire we’re just as competitive with ourselves as 2014, we introduced Street EVO One and that to consciously limit the number of models. any external entities. We look around and ask represents another significant advancement. For us, it’s about making sure every style we “how can we do this better?” The answers The EVO in its name stands for “Evolution.” launch is as good as it possibly can be. It boasts a Direct-injected midsole with an we’ve come up with are engrained into our integrated shank piece. This design cups and corporate DNA. First and foremost, this starts Let’s talk about the industry with being a privately-held, family-owned as a whole – it looks like golf cushions a player’s heel, delivering comfort company. This gives us the freedom to inno- shoes are no longer viewed as and torsional support while creating an excep- vate and do things differently. Next, it’s about a functional accessory. Looking at shop tionally stable platform from which golfers can being vertically integrated. Every step of the windows these days, there’s no denying power through each shot. shoemaking process – from leather produc- that the golf shoe has become a very The BIOM franchise has seen a tion down to the finished shoe – is done at fashion-driven accessory. Would you lot of success over the years an ECCO-owned facility. We use the very best agree with this? – how has this specific materials and control everything to ensure MW: If that’s the tide, we’re certainly – and technology evolved over the years? the quality meets our exacting standards. happily – fighting against it! There’s a principle MW: When we premiered BIOM in golf in What a lot of people don’t know is we’re one of Scandinavian design that states “form must 2011, it was already such a sophisticated tech- of the world’s largest producers of high-end follow function.” That’s how we approach nology that we haven’t needed to do a major leathers. These are found in the handbags and shoemaking. While it’s great that fashion has a overhaul. Rather, the adjustments we’ve made accessories of some of the most well-known role, it’s not good for players when that takes have been subtle enhancements such as slim- luxury goods brands. The expertise from that precedence over functionality. SPECIAL FEATURE 2014 U.S. Women’s Open

Glamour + Brains + Skill

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inally, Michelle Wie, the Stanford-educated beauty from Hawaii has vindicated herself. She is the total package. And by winning the 2014 FU.S. Women’s Open she has silenced all of her critics once and for all! With an absolutely unorthodox putting style that we refer to as “The Spread-eagle Giraffe Putt”, Wie put on a master class of a performance on Pinehurst #2 Only 24 years of age, Wie displayed an indomitable fighting spirit and refused to submit to a course that was bent on taking her down. What was also significant was that Wie, an American of Korean- Asian, helped break the dominant Asian strangle-hold in women’s professional golf. With this win, Wie has placed herself on top of women’s golf which she has been playing since age 13. She now has four LPGA victories and leads the tour’s money list.

= VICTORY! SPECIAL FEATURE Change the Game

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A new organisation on the golf landscape is the U.S. Recreational Golf Association (USRGA). Its primary focus is to help grow recreational golf and serve the needs of recreational golfers and the recreational golf community. The USRGA will create a community, forum and voice for Recreational golfers who embody the original spirit of the game, which was and is to enjoy golf as a game. It will cham- pion efforts that are in the best interests of those who engage in and ILULÄ[MYVTYLJYLH[PVUHSNVSMWSH`0[PZOLHKLK\WI`[OLMV\UKLY a man who is passionate about golf. Asian Golf has invited Dr. Dave Felker to serve on its panel distinguished columnists HUK[OLMVSSV^PUNPZOPZÄYZ[JVU[YPI\[PVU!

Dr. Dave Felker SPECIAL FEATURE Change the Game

olf is a game of friendly compe- tions. Now courses are designed and built in played for many years. The USRGA rules do tition for the majority of golfers. such “undiscoverable locations” as deserts. not place performance limits on any equip- It must be a fun activity; other- One thing that hasn’t changed over time ment. Wedges with deep square grooves Gwise golfers will choose another is the recreational golfer’s desire to have fun. that enable a golfer to more easily stop the way to spend their time and money. The Golf is still a game that is played in a beauti- ball on the green are allowed. Drivers with resurgence in golf will be in recreational play. ful setting and enjoyed with friends and a high coefficient of restitution that deliver The impending changes are not a threat to family. Unfortunately, a few of the changes longer drivers are allowed. the USGA and R&A grand tradition of golf – in golf have taken some of the fun out of the Anchoring a long putter or any other they are a necessity. game and that is, in part, why enrollment is club is allowed. Golf balls that are designed The history of golf is the history of declining. to be longer and correct hooks and slices change. The evolution of golf is one of the The courses have gotten considerably are allowed. Mulligans and gimme putts strongest traditions of the game. Virtually longer, greens are faster and there are more are allowed by the USRGA rules, as they everything in golf has evolved over time. hazards to deal with. Many courses have be- have long been part of the tradition of Golf started with a wooden ball and club and come so difficult for recreational golfers that recreational golf. With the right rules and has evolved into today’s high tech equip- a formal program was created to encourage equipment technology, the game is easier ment made with space-age materials. The golfers to play the forward tees so they have to learn and more fun to play. With these number of rules has almost tripled. a better chance of reaching the green in changes, a recreational golfer can easily cut The average winning score for The regulation – Tee it Forward, which is a good 5-15 strokes from his or her game and, more Open has dropped nearly 20 strokes per 18 thing. The direction course design has taken importantly, drastically reduce frustration holes over time. Golfer attire has continu- needs some correction. levels and speed up play. ally evolved. Ben Hogan’s 1950 US Open Another positive development is the Change in golf will continue… for the win was worth $4,000; today’s winner gets creation of the US Recreational Golf Associa- better. $1,440,000. The golf handicap system has tion’s (www.USRGA.org) rules which reflect improved and now the USGA system in- and validate how recreational golf has been cludes a Course Rating™ and Slope Rating™. Caddies are a rare sight these days, while laser-range finders are not. Electric golf carts have replaced walking on most courses. In the earliest days of golf, the courses were “discovered” in locations that had the right topography and grass condi-

“One thing that hasn’t changed over time is the recreational golfer’s desire to have fun. Golf is still a game that is played in a beautiful setting and enjoyed with friends and family.”

26 27 ASIAN GOLF MARINA BAY SANDS® SINGAPORE 24/7 REDEFINED SPECIAL FEATURE The Tours

The history of the professional golf circuit in Asia has pore’s veteran professional Mardan Mamat said, “I think most of the players are not very been mired in a lot of intrigue and misgivings virtually happy with the schedule of the Asian Tour,” whose prize money for the year from the from the day the professional game was introduced Asian Tour stands at a paltry US$4,000 plus. He added, “You need to play good at these to Asia. The two main adversaries are the Asian Tour, big events otherwise you won’t make much income. You play a $300,000 tournament, you the tour which claims to be the sole custodian of the need to finish top-five to make any money.” This about sums up the plight of the Asian professional game and the upstart OneAsia Tour that Tour players. To understand the players’ concerns proclaims itself to be the million-dollar play maker. better, it may help if the income levels for this year on the Asian Tour are compared with let’s say the European Tour. The Order Of elations between the tours battle between the tours has affected the Merit money spinner on the Asian Tour is An- have been bitter to say the prize money pool. The total bag of cash for irban Lahiri who at the time of writing has least with mud-slinging battles 2014 adds up to over US$14 million which salted away US$245,910. On its own, it looks R fought out in the media with does not reflect real growth. This figure is like a lot but when compared to his coun- each side questioning the legitimacy of for only Asian Tour events and it does not terpart on the European Tour for the same the other’s very existence. While all this include any co-sanctioned tournaments period under review, Thomas Bjorn has sabre rattling has been going on, the with the European Tour or the PGA Tour. The earned US$2,025,000. OneAsia Tour, the so- players, especially those on the Asian reason why the money from co-sanctioned called “million dollar” tour is not that much Tour have reportedly become both frus- events is not included in this report is at- better. At the time of writing, the Order of trated and irate due to the lack of playing tributable to the fact that most of the pot is Merit leader, South Korea’s Kim Seung Hyuk and earning opportunities on the tour. anyway won by non-Asian Tour players! had bagged US$223,311. There is no denying that the running In a recent AFP agency report, Singa- We have refrained from drawing any

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SANG Y. CHUN MIKE KERR Commissioner and CEO, Asian Tour Chairman of OneAsia

“OneAsia is always open to the possibility of collaboration and cooperation with other tours – it is in our DNA.” - Sang Y. Chun comparison with the US PGA Tour because it? Given the pressure that’s building up, this What’s the read from the team at OneA- earnings on that Tour are stratospheric! But may be the time to do a bit of soul-searching, sia? In a recent interview with ASIAN GOLF, you get the message. to cast away differences and work out a rap- its commissioner and chairman Sang Y. Chun Moving on, it is obvious that both tours prochement that will be in the best interest said, “OneAsia is always open to the possibil- are languishing and are in urgent need of of all parties concerned, the players, sponsors ity of collaboration and cooperation with one mighty shot in the arm to get things and the professional game. other tours – it is in our DNA.” happening and to quell the frustrations We see a thawing already happening Well, the door seems open for peace being experienced by players on tour. The especially with the public-relations offensive talks. Can we look forward to sensible and natural question to pose at this stage in that Mike Kerr the chief executive officer pragmatic men coming together to resolve the evolution of the two tours would be of the Asian Tour seems to have embarked matters which hopefully can result in the to explore the possibility of the Asian Tour upon. We have been told that Kerr is the “new establishment of one tour in Asia – a super and OneAsia coming together to form a face” of the Asian Tour and he may prove tour that offers value all round - to players, to super tour? It makes good sense and from a to be the man who can bring everyone to sponsors and to those who want to see the financial viability standpoint, it should also the table to work things out. Wonder if Kerr professional game grow and take its rightful work well. is already talking to the powers that be at place on the global stage as a tour to reckon However, pulling off a coming together OneAsia about some sort of a collaborative with? may prove to be the big challenge – or will arrangement between the tours? Only time will tell! The natural question to pose at this stage in the evolution of the two tours would be to explore the possibility of the Asian Tour and OneAsia coming together to form a super tour? SPECIAL FEATURE Out-Of-The Box Thinking

Mission Hills in China is a name that is probably known to golfers the world over. It is known to be the biggest golf resort on the planet with a total of 22 world class golf courses spread out over two facili- ties on Shenzen and Dongguan on the Chinese mainland and Haikou on the off-shore island of Hainan.

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ission Hills is the end product of a dream come true for grow and for the growth to be sustained, a committment has to be the late visionary founder of the sprawling facility, Dr. made to reach out to the golfer and his or her family. “I believe that if David Chu. Since his demise, his two sons, Ken Chu and we can reach out to the family and address the needs of every mem- MTenniel Chu have taken on the task of leading this giant ber, father, mother and children, golf will grow and to achieve this goal, facility to greater innovations and developments. The Chu brothers, like XF
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their father, are passionate about golf and are committed to leading Chu declared at the 2013 Asia Pacific Golf Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia. the way on growing the game not only in China but on a global scale. The Mission Hills Movie Town is just one of these facilities which With this as background, Mission Hills has just unveiled in grand adds to the total pull-factor to grow the game of golf. It is like Las Tinsel-Town style its latest project. The name of the project is sort of Vegas, Universal Studios and Disneyland which all play a big role in B
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making golf a major tourist attraction. – but it is in keeping with the spectacle and grandeur associated with Movie Town, spans 5.7 square kilometres and involves a total all projects undertaken by Mission Hills. The Movie Town is located investment of US$900 million. It features vintage street settings from at Mission Hills Haikou on the tropical island of Hainan, popularly famous movies, state-of-the-art film studios, an array of shopping and described as China’s Hawaii. dining options and countless other entertainment and leisure features. So, what’s the connection between a movie town and golf? Well, It is expected to attract five million visitors per year. Now can you ap- it’s huge! Dr. Ken Chu, the Chairman of the Mission Hills Group is on preciate the effect that this will have on golf and its growth in China? a mission to grow the game of golf. He believes that for the game to Movie Town is a three-way collaboration between China’s premier “I believe that if we can reach out to the family and address the needs of every member, father, mother and children, golf will grow and to achieve this goal, we must strive to provide facilities that will appeal to the family.” -Dr. Ken Chu SPECIAL FEATURE Out-Of-The Box Thinking

leisure and lifestyle conglomerate, Mission Hills Group, acclaimed film recognized by Guinness World Records. director Feng Xiaogang, and the country’s biggest movie producers, Meanwhile, Mission Hills Shenzhen-Dongguan on the Chinese Huayi Brothers Media. mainland is officially “The World’s Largest Golf Club” with 12 courses. “The opening of the first phase of Movie Town is a major mile- A major shopping, leisure, business and residential hub, Centreville, is stone for Mission Hills Group as we continue to expand and diversify currently under construction at this resort. our leisure and entertainment portfolio,” declared Dr. Chu. In summation, one can only conclude that to seriously grow golf, “Movie Town will further cement Mission Hills Haikou’s status as initiatives have to be put in place to cater to a wide variety of needs the premier lifestyle resort in Hainan and will be a huge attraction for with the family unit as the central target. Mission Hills Group is doing the millions of tourists who visit the island each year from mainland just that and doing it real well! China and overseas. The first phase of Movie Town features “1942 Street”, depicting “The Mission Hills Movie Town is Republican Era buildings in Chongqing as featured in Feng’s movie Back To 1942. A total of 91 buildings, covering 25,000 square metres, just one of these facilities which showcase the different architectural styles which prevailed at the time. When completed, Movie Town will feature two more districts, adds to the total pull-factor to Nanyang Street and Old Beijing Street, a total of four giant film studios – including one sized at 8,000 square metres, bigger than a grow the game of golf. It is like soccer field – and a collection of celebrity-themed boutique hotels. Movie Town is just one of a series of major construction projects Las Vegas, Universal Studios and at Mission Hills Haikou. Also nearing completion is Mission Hills New Town, with shopping malls, Lan Kwai Fong entertainment district, Disneyland which all play a big leisure facilities and three new hotels, the Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance and Hard Rock Hotel. role in making golf a major tourist Mission Hills Haikou already features a 539-room hotel, 10 world- class golf courses and “The World’s Largest Spa Resort” as officially attraction.”

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SPECIAL FEATURE Back9Network

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Have not heard about Back9Network? Well, this won’t stay that way for too SVUN;OLÅLKNSPUNVYNHUPaH[PVUOHZILLUOHYKH[^VYRMVY[OLWHZ[MV\Y`LHYZ I\PSKPUNHIYVHKIHZLKJVTT\UPJH[PVUZWSH[MVYTHPTLKH[WYVTV[PUNHSS HZWLJ[ZVMSPMLZ[`SLZ^P[ONVSMHZP[ZJLU[YHS[OLTL

t’s not been an easy ride getting television car- up to Eastwood’s expectations – “Go ahead – make my day!” riage rights in North America but the dogged As a prelude to the launch of the network, Asian Golf met determination of Back9Network is finally paying up with Dennis P. Allen, senior vice president for global busi- off. Spearheading the thrust is James L. “Jamie” ness development to get the latest on Back9Network’s launch IBosworth , widely considered one of the most dy- as a television network: namic, visionary and effective golf industry leaders of Asian Golf: Well, it has finally happened! Carriage for the the last two decades. Back9Network. Your reactions? Bosworth believes that both advertisers and the Dennis Allen: Yes! We’re thrilled to have reached the TV start- golfing public are being underserved by current ing line in late 2014 for the U.S. market. We’ve been building the broadcast alternatives. He envisions a global, multi- Company for roughly the last 4 years with the goal of launching platform network that would transcend the profes- the Back9Network multimedia platform on TV. Along the way sional tours and focus on the golf lifestyle, appealing we’ve worked tirelessly and have been fortunate to aggregate a to passionate player and casual fan alike. loyal digital audience that demands terrific golf-lifestyle-centric Bosworth is not alone in bringing Back9Network content on a daily basis. In May 2014, we surpassed 1million to life – he has some serious stake-holders supporting unique visitors to www.back9network.com, 25% of which are him and a very dynamic management team. One of the international visitors. We’re growing 20-25% per month, undis- network’s stake-holders is Hollywood super mega-star putedly the fastest growing golf media platform on the planet. and avid golfer Clint Eastwood. With Eastwood involved, The sky’s the limit. you can rest assured that Bosworth and his team will live “We will deliver a fresh perspective on the life- style of golf and its worldwide influence through original programming, truly unique studio shows and highly compelling syndicated content.” SPECIAL FEATURE Back9Network

DA: Yes, absolutely. We opened the Company’s “The Company’s leadership team has al- digital media studio/headquarters in April 2013, a 12,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility ways believed that there is a huge hole in in downtown Hartford, Connecticut, USA cur- rently occupied by over 40 employees. Our TV the market for Back9Network’s planned Production Studio is scheduled for completion in August 2014, a cutting edge 6,800 square golf-lifestyle-centric content. Such con- foot building with studio space (virtual and hard sets), control rooms, editing rooms, etc. We will tent is truly complementary to the tradi- be producing at least 4 hours per day of studio content from this new media facility. tional media coverage of golf.” What are your thoughts on the timing of your carriage As they say, the serious work essentially focus on the fun and life- launch? Is this a good time? has now begun. Give us a style elements of the game. Is there DA: Since Back9Network isn’t focused on sense of what we can expect enough going on to keep a channel fed the “live rights” of golf (professional tourna- from Back9Network as a full-fledged with original content on a 24/7 basis? ment coverage), there’s never a bad time to content provider on golf? DA: That’s correct. Back9Network was launch our network. Most important to your DA: Back9Network will be inviting everyone developed as a complementary alternative to question, the lifestyle of golf is not seasonal. into the golf lifestyle, from those who are traditional media’s focus on professional golf Golfers around the world love to consume already part of the game to those that aspire tournament coverage. There is no limit to our lifestyle content around the sport that they to live the lifestyle….even if they rarely pick content offerings. Focused on compelling love regardless of their ability to participate, up a club. We will deliver a fresh perspective storytelling, interesting personalities, features seasonally speaking. on the lifestyle of golf and its worldwide in- and fashions, interviews and instruction, fluence through original programming, truly travel, gear and much more, fans of all kinds This is a chicken and egg unique studio shows and highly compelling will want to hang with the Back9Network. question – what sort of syndicated content. reception do you expect to With more content being receive from the golf industry first and You have positioned your required, will your facilities in the golf public at large? network as an alternative Hartford be beefed up and DA: Back9Network’s content has already medium for golf where you what is needed to be done most been well received by a rapidly growing urgently on a priority basis? audience of golf-lifestyle enthusiasts around the World (online). Our TV content will take

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this momentum to the next level, although DA: The Company’s leadership team has out we will be eagerly seeking international now complemented by long-form program- always believed that there is a huge hole distribution partners. Just like any other ming on TV. Based upon industry leading in the market for Back9Network’s planned emerging business, this is all about resource media research results, we anticipate a broad golf-lifestyle-centric content. Such content and capital deployment. Putting that aside, audience to tune in to our content. Think is truly complementary to the traditional Back9Network aspires to be “the golf-lifestyle about an amalgamation of Food Network, media coverage of golf. That being said, network”, globally speaking. HGTV, Travel Channel, History Channel, A&E, we’ve already started to see the market react Give us five albatross points to Discovery Channel and Bravo…all with golf to some of our on-line programming strate- support why Back9Network woven into the tapestry of the programming. gies, which is flattering. At the end of the would be the most watchable day, Back9Network has a 24/7 platform not Like anything new, you are and compelling channel out there in bound by live rights content, so our creative bound to be confronted by golfdom? content freedom is quite frankly, limitless. challenges. What challenges DA: Here you go: do you see ahead of you and how can What are your immediate 1. The U.S. golf-lifestyle economy is a $177B these challenges be overcome? plans for international access space, with less than 3% of that market DA: The biggest challenge is to rapidly ramp to your network? focused on coverage of the “live rights” of up domestic and international TV distribu- DA: The Company’s first priority is to com- golf (where the current golf media land- tion in order to maximize global advertising plement our bourgeoning digital operation scape lives). and sponsorship opportunities. Due to the by establishing its domestic TV operation. 2. Back9Network will “follow the money”, aggregation of a highly coveted demograph- This will be followed shortly thereafter by an focused on programming/content that ics (golfers), the global markets are ripe for international roll out, which is frankly driven encompasses where 97% of golfers spend consuming more of our planned golf-life- by resource allocations. In other words, we their hard earned dollars. style content. Global media conglomerates aspire to be great at what we do locally and 3. Unique original programming (reality shows, must be convinced that distributing Back- then expand globally. Golf-lifestyle content scripted dramas, animations, documentaries, 9Network to their clientele is in their best has no geographic boundaries, so although etc.), always featuring golf as the tapestry. interest. This is easier said than done, but we exporting our content around the globe isn’t 4. Breakthrough, daily studio programming are bullish on the strategic plan. complicated, navigating the TV distribution aimed at appealing to a broad TV audience “gatekeepers” is challenging. (golfers and otherwise). The television market for golf 5. Compelling TV syndication (travel/resorts, has been pretty much a one The natural follow-up would fashion, gear, watches, fine dining, cigars horse race, albeit not a very a question regarding your and automotive), all of which complement exciting one! Do you see the competi- plans for international Back9Network’s original content and studio tion picking up resulting in more coverage – is this on the drawing board? programming. exciting and engaging content? DA: Absolutely, once the U.S. TV market rolls EQUIPMENT FOCUS Mantis Golf “Mantis Golf putters feature the finest work- manship and built-in performance elements to help golfers dis- cover and refine their most effective putting strokes.” -Chris Maher

newcomer to the putter business is the finest workmanship and built-in performance Mantis Golf. This young American upstart, elements to help golfers discover and refine their founded in 2012 is launching in Japan most effective putting strokes,” said Mahler. Awhich is arguably one of the most de- He continued, “Mantis putters are retro in sim- manding and challenging golf markets to break into. plicity yet revolutionary in concept and with our pat- They know it but the company has guts to take ented green finish and face-balanced construction, is on all-comers in Japan. “As our putters begin to designed to minimize the visual attention a golfer be recognized and sought after throughout North gives to the putter and maximize attention America and beyond,” said Chris Maher, CEO of to the ball and the line of the putt, thus Mantis Golf, “we look forward to expanding our producing a smoother putting worldwide market to satisfy the demand. We are strokes and more consistent pleased to add Japan to this initiative.” results.” This year Mantis Golf introduced its new Mantis ‘B’ blade putter, which, along with the original Mantis Mallet putter, features superior quality and craftsmanship, including classic design and the signature Mantis patented green finish to avoid distracting the golfer’s eye. According to Mahler, Mantis putters are a blend of old-world craftsmanship and state-of-the-art technology. “Mantis Golf putters feature

38 39 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUS Wilson 8802 Putter

he proverb “old is gold” has a very 8802, Tim Clarke, president of Wilson Golf, said, special relevance to the product that we “Our main focus in this our 100th anniversary year, are going to discuss in a moment. In the lies in our new product launches, but there is T classical sense, “old is gold” essentially just too much history to pass through without means that whatever is old is actually valued as celebrating the 8802”. According to him, the gold. Now, let’s cut to the product under review – 8802 revives a lot of good memories. Several the classic Wilson 8802 putter. top tour players have trusted the 8802 de- This iconic putter has been winning tourna- sign and Ben Crenshaw was given one on ments on the PGA Tour for years and some of the his 15th birthday in 1967 by his father who all-time greats who have used the Wilson 8802 paid US$15 for a used version. Crenshaw include Arnold “The King” Palmer, Ben Crenshaw used it for many years, resulting in thee put-put- and Greg Norman. ter being nicknamed “Little Ben”.”. As a matter of fact, few golf club designs possess the history and “The Wilson 8802 shape and pedigree of the Wilson 8802 putter. It’s a product that has certainly styling has remained pretty withstood the test of time! Now, in the centenary year of much unchanged for the past 50 Wilson, the company has decided to bring back the classic putter. years and this in itself is strong The blade design which has been holing putts since the 1960s is now validation to give the putter a available with a brand new updated 21st Century look. brand new playing life!” The original shape was designed and inspired by Arnold Palmer, who was signed The 2014 version of the Wilsonson on to Wilson in the early 1960s. According to re- 8802 putter is milled from 304 ports, after Palmer parted company with the brand, stainless steel. Unlike the original’sal’s Wilson dropped the tag “Designed by Arnold Palm- smooth, metal face, Wilson has er” and renamed the putter as the Wilson 8802. added a double-milled face to thehe The Wilson 8802 shape and styling has redesigned model. With the same,me, remained pretty much unchanged for the past 50 heel-shafted head shape of the original, years and this in itself is strong validation to give the putter has also been updateded with the putter a brand new playing life! a head weight of 335 grams to matchmatch Commenting on the come-back of the Wilson the demands of modern greens andand ball construction.

40 41 ASIAN GOLF THE WORLD’S ONLY ILLUMINATED BOOK ON THE GAME


 
 














 







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888810&'3.#0&26$.+%#5+104%1/ EQUIPMENT FOCUS New Products

Callaway Golf is turning on the pressure and this time, it’s all about the expertly crafted Mack Daddy 2 tour grind wedges designed by the legendary club designer Roger Cleveland and inspired by the major-winning performance of the Mack Daddy 2 Wedges. Callaway’s new Mack Daddy 2 Tour Grind Wedges feature a Tour-validated shape to deliver more precision, greater spin and pinpoint control. These premium forged wedges are made from 1020 Car- bon steel for an ultra-soft feel and feature a straighter leading edge that creates better turf interaction through the ground. The higher toe is a favorite of Tour players, creating a shape that inspires the confidence you need to go after delicate shots. The forged Mack Daddy 2 Groove Pattern offers 39 percent larger grooves for 25 percent more spin out of the rough, while the increased surface roughness of the face provides added spin and control. 6MMLYLKPU[^VÄUPZO6W[PVUZ! Chrome finish for a rich, muted look that reduces glare; and Slate finish is pre-oxidized for a Tour preferred distinctive, non-glare look over time 3VM[ZH]HPSHISL! 52°, 54°, 56°, 58° and 60°

Gauge Design Golf, a premium golf company known for creating the most precise milled putters in the golf industry, has announced the re-introduction of its popular Whitlam Golf Little Dog Mallet Putter. The Little Dog putter is a full toe-hang #9 style putter accompanied by a singular site-line. It is precision milled out of carbon steel and features a half- moon style cut-out mallet shape and a slightly wider top line which helps maintain the balance of the putter and helps keep it square at setup. “This little puppy is part of our Whitlam Golf Collection and it was a popular addition to our line when we first introduced it a few years ago so we thought we’d re-introduce it this year,” said David Whitlam, Founder and President, Gauge Design Golf. The Little Dog putter comes with a head weight of approximately 360 grams. Standard lie is 70 degrees and standard loft is 3.5 degrees.

42 43 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 166 JULY 2014

ore and more electronic devices are coming into play and the lat- est to join the rage is Game Golf, a wearable device that tracks and displays a golfer’s round of golf. M It provides the ability to improve your game whether during a weekend outing with friends or while participating in a club tournament. Best of all, the product has received the blessings of the USGA, the governing body of golf and is “Allowable under The Rules of Golf,” which means it can now be used in competition. GAME GOLF, which consists of a small, light-weight device worn on the play- er’s belt and individual sensor tags that attach to the butt end cap of each club, records every shot played during a round of golf using GPS and motion sensing technology. By simply tapping the GAME GOLF sensor tag to the device worn on the waist, the GAME GOLF device automatically records course, location of the hole, club used and club distance. After the round, the golfer simply uploads the data via computer to GAMEGOLF.com for post-round analysis, which can also be viewed via a mobile app or web platform. “We designed GAME GOLF specifi- cally to allow golfers to capture their round of golf automatically without disrupting the pace of play or inter- rupting the golfer’s focus.” -John McGuire “We designed GAME GOLF specifically to allow golfers to capture their round of golf automatically without disrupting the pace of play or interrupt- ing the golfer’s focus,” said John McGuire, GAME GOLF CEO. “GAME GOLF’s unique ‘tag-and-go’ process becomes part of the golfer’s pre-shot routine and is designed to be a performance trigger. The tags were designed under 2 grams of weight, as anything above that effects the performance of the club in a negative way. Following the round, golfers can go to GAMEGOLF.com and re-live each shot, view stats and data, and have the ability to share in a fun, socially driven way.” GAME GOLF is a tool aimed at growing the game of golf. It attracts the golfer who wants to improve using technology by allowing them to learn the true distances of each of their clubs and gather stats like fairways hit, greens in regulation, number of putts and more. GAME GOLF is a fun, interactive system that can connect golfers in any geographic locations to compete and share their round. SPECIAL FEATURE Rising Star

It’s not often that one comes across a young golfer who shows promise, especially in a country like Indonesia which is not particularly known to be a hot-bed for professional golf talent. But when one comes along, it’s a special TVTLU[¶HTVTLU[[OH[NP]LZZ\MÄJPLU[JH\ZL[VJLSLIYH[L By Dennis G. Kloeth, founder and owner of Golf Promo Indonesia

sian Golf is always on the look- of the bureaucratic obstacles to get to where George is making waves alright and he is out for young talent throughout he is today. Meet George Gandranata, turning in very creditable performances both the region and the spotlight this arguably Indonesia’s best professional golfer in Indonesia and on the Asian Tour. This year A time around focuses on a golfer today. alone, he has scored three wins on the PGTI who is turning heads in the third most popu- George has developed and progressed to Tour and is leading the Order of Merit. lous nation on the planet. He has emerged where he is today purely because of the sup- He started golf at the age of 13 and against all odds in a golf bureaucracy that is port accorded to him by PGTI (Professional turned pro at age 26 in 2012, after secur- mired in internal politics which more often Golf Tour Indonesia). The PGTI is responsible ing his BA in Economics from University of than not inhibits the development of junior for the Indonesian Golf Tour, a series of 14 California Berkeley and an MA in Economics golf in Indonesia. tournaments designed at creating a career from the University of San Francisco. Nevertheless, our “star” of the month, path for professional golfers and amateurs in “My perception of golf at the beginning now 28 years old, battled his way through all Indonesia. was that it was played by older folks and this

cGeorge Gandranata at CIMB Indonesian Masters April 2014 cGeorge Gandranata winner at PGTI tournament at Padang Golf Modern, Jakarta 44 45 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 166 JULY 2014

My perception of golf at the begin- ning was that it was played by older folks and this did not fire my interest. But that changed rapidly af- ter I hit some balls and I was instantly

PHOTO: ASIANTOUR hooked.”

did not fire my interest. But that changed because this is where I saw an opportunity to because I snatched four 2nd place finishes, rapidly after I hit some balls and I was in- become not just a successful college player, two of them in a major which earned me the stantly hooked,” he revealed. but more importantly, a successful profes- prestigious AJGA All-American Honor on two As a junior golfer, George cut his teeth sional golfer,” he explained. different occasions,” he added. Because of his playing on courses around Jakarta. “In According to George, his first two years winning performances, he received schol- August 1999 I entered my first junior golf in high school were tough because he arship offers from the University of North tournament and it was a real thrill to win needed to learn English and through a lot of Florida, Florida State University, Notre Dame and to raise the winner’s trophy - it changed hard work and perseverance, he managed to University, Texas A&M University, Georgia my life – I knew from that moment on that I score very high grades both in the language Tech University and the University of Califor- wanted to develop myself into the nation’s and all other subjects. nia-Berkeley. “I opted for Berkeley because of best professional golfer,” said George. “Playing golf in high school was also a that university’s strong track record in sports After graduating from junior high school challenge because the environment was new and academics,” George added. in Indonesia, he was packed off to America and the competition was stiff, but as they say, The American experience has proved to pursue his dual dream of attaining top I gave it the good old college try – I played a to be invaluable to the Indonesian profes- honours in golf and in academic studies. He whole bunch of new courses under different sional because during his stay there, he was enrolled in Pendleton High School in Florida climatic conditions and all this went towards fortunate to play with and learn from the where he competed in numerous junior golf helping me to improve my all round game.” likes of current PGA Tour players like Webb tournaments organized by the Florida Junior Through sleepless nights, a lot of hard Simpson, Brian Harman, Jamie Lovemark Golf Association, the Junior Champions Tour work, practice, sacrifices and determination, and Robert Gates Jr. and the American Junior Golf Association. he eventually graduated to playing in tour- He is now an accomplished professional “Tell you what – to learn how to play naments staged by the American Junior Golf golfer with three good years under his belt golf at the highest level, America is the place Association (AJGA). “This was an experience with successes on the ASEAN PGA Tour and the Asian Development Tour. Coupled with his current leading position on the money list, George is Indonesia’s brightest golfing star. It must be noted though that where he is today is due almost wholly to his drive and effort. There is no doubt in anybody’s mind that the adventure for this young Indonesian pro- fessional has just begun. He has the talent, drive and panache to take his professional game to a higher level and it is hoped that Indonesian golf throws its total support be- hind a young man who has a long and bright future ahead of him. George is a special player who not only has the skills but also the academic qualifica- tions to match – BA and MA in Economics which is a rare achievement amongst profes- cGeorge Gandranata with caddie Stasha Senjaya during the CIMB Indonesian Masters April 2014 sional golfers in Asia. SPECIAL FEATURE It’s Great To Be Young!

“I just want to go out there and have fun and play the best I can, and I really don’t care about the outcome.” -Lucy Li

e are not opposed to this. In fact we believe that more babies should be What’s happening to brought on tour so that they can serve as shining examples as role models. And heck, the game is in dire need of young role models that youngsters the professional game W can look up to and emulate. This can only mean one thing for golf – it will be darn good for the game! of golf? We are seeing When a 11 year old, sixth grader who answers to the name Lucy Li walked on to the parched tee-box at the fabled Pinehurst # 2 to compete as an amateur in the 2014 U.S. Women’s Open last month, most on-lookers were amazed. more and more babies Here was a tiny girl, wrapped in the colours of the American flag who was about to take on a golf course that had terrified a field of top professionals a week earlier at the U.S. Open who should still be in and she showed no signs of nerves. Instead, she was having fun like any other kid her age. Being in the presence of the LPGA’s biggest names did not faze her one bit. the care of nannies Like a professional, she went about her work to do battle with a golf course that was waiting to destroy her. instead of taking on the The tale of Lucy Li is what fairy tales are all about. Even though she failed to make the cut, it was quite an experience watching this little girl from Asia go through the paces and handle best professionals in herself with such aplomb that one could only expect from a person far more mature in age. Our partner, Back9Network who were on site to watch this entire spectacle, shared this the game. report by Tess McCurdy with us: As the tournament officially kicked off, a composed Li said in a giggly press conference,

46 47 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 166 JULY 2014

“I just want to go out there and have fun and play the best I can, and I really don’t care about the outcome.” I’m in total awe of her poise and maturity as she tees off with LPGA pros twice her age. Roughly 10 years ago, I was 11 years old, just like Li, and the school year was coming to an end. I spent the whole summer of 2004 worrying about starting middle school and desperately trying to transform my elementary school look. Summers back then were free of responsibilities, other than soccer camps and summer reading books. Summer reading was the bane of nearly every 11-year-old’s existence (except Li’s, apparently, she reads 400-page books in just two days). That summer, I ditched my glasses for contacts, but got a brand new set of braces. Life was good but … awkward. On the contrary, my girl Lucy Li’s summer begins at Pinehurst # 2! I think it’s safe “Even though she failed to make the cut, it was quite an experience watching this little girl from Asia go through the paces and handle herself with such aplomb that one could only expect from a person fare more mature in age.”

to say Li’s not your average 11- year-old girl and there’s nothing awkward about this middle schooler. She’s determined, hardworking and has an Augusta National Drive, Chip and Putt victory under her sparkly-pink belt. For starters, Li is home-schooled and trains all year round with her coach, Jim McLean, in Miami. Her family relocated from Hong Kong to California and she be- gan training at the age of 7. I won’t even begin to tell you what I was doing when I was 7, but it did have nearly everything to do with Barbies. One thing Li and my younger self do have in common: We both looked up to our big brothers. Li just wanted to golf like her older brother, Warren. Similarly, I begged my mother to let me wrestle like my big brother from the ages of 7 to 10. The differ- ence, Li’s golf career turned out better than my nonexistent wrestling career. Yet, despite Li’s rigorous training schedule and eminent success for her young age, she is just an 11- year-old girl who likes 11-year-old girl things. She just hap- pens to have a killer swing and a ridiculous work ethic. Li has been known to skip down the fairways and deliver candy bars to fellow golfers. Her style on and off the course is nothing short of adorable. And what about her being just a kid? Well, when she finished her first round at the U.S. Open with an 8-over 78 she was asked what she had planned for the rest of the day and she responded: “Eat some more ice cream.” What a kid – we need more kids like Li around! EQUIPMENT FOCUS PING’s Point Of View

^^^WPUNJVT

;OPZ^PSSILT`ÄUHSHY[PJSL^OPSLSP]PUNHUK^VYRPUNPU ;VR`VMVY705..VSM1HWHU0[OHZILLUHYL^HYKPUN HUKLK\JH[PVUHSñ`LHYZ0OH]L[OVYV\NOS` LUQV`LKT`[PTLPU1HWHUHUK[YH]LSPUN[OYV\NOV\[ (ZPH0»]LSLHYULKHNYLH[KLHSHIV\[[OL\UPX\LULZZ HUKZPTPSHYP[PLZVM[OLKPMMLYLU[NVSMTHYRL[Z(UK 0»]LILLUMVY[\UH[L[VL_WLYPLUJLTHU`KP]LYZL J\S[\YLZ^OPJOOHZTHKLMVYZVTLTLTVYHISLMHTPS`

BY JOHN K. SOLHEIM ]HJH[PVUZHZ^LSS PING VICE PRESIDENT OF ENGINEERING

FAMILY PHOTO IN CAMBODIA: Our family will never forget the times we spent traveling throughout Asia.

48 49 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 166 JULY 2014

has seen a lot of success during this time, and I PING consider Asia to be the best opportunity for growing “Go demo the competition’s PING’s business and the game of golf. I’m encouraged that in many parts of Asia, the sport is still new but is high on the lists of activities products,” I tell them, “and you’ll people want to pursue. That’s where PING can play our customary leadership role by introducing them to the benefits of performance have a new appreciation for how innovation and custom-fit equipment. The progress we’ve made in Asia I credit to the appeal of our unique story and to the effectiveness of our products in making the much PING is helping people game easier and more fun for all ability levels. In Asia I see many golf companies sending messages that make their brands look and play better golf. It starts with see- sound alike. So I can understand the prevailing sentiment that most golf manufacturers aren’t too different. But at PING, we stand out by ing the results in your own game.” engineering products that push innovation with results. Then we put those products into golfers’ hands so they can experience the ben- tions, yielding a 12-yard gain in distance. That means on holes where efits first hand. Advancements like variable-depth grooves in putters, he would hit a driver and a 7-iron to reach the green, he might need adjustable-length putter shafts, progressive CG locations, and drivers only a driver and a wedge. Over the course of a round, hitting shorter that are the longest and most forgiving in golf have helped us make irons into greens can leave you much-better opportunities for birdie. big strides in distinguishing and elevating our brand where it matters On top of this, with both the driver and 7-iron his shot patterns were most: performance. much tighter with the PING clubs. This doesn’t sound to me like all club One question I hear frequently is, “What do an optimized Centre manufacturers are the same. Talk to your local PING clubfitter and he or of Gravity, higher Moment of Inertia, and improved aerodynamics she will tell you that this man’s experience is nothing new. really mean to the golfer?” Well, recently I observed the importance I’ve ended many of my articles encouraging people to get fit and of optimizing these variables when I watched a golfer get a fitting, demo a PING product to experience the difference that our technol- followed by a test comparing his newly purchased competitors’ clubs ogy makes. This month I’m inviting everyone to hit PING equipment with PING equipment. side-by-side with competitors’ clubs. Do this with a launch monitor After a few swings, the improvements with PING were mind-blow- or at a driving range so you can compare ball flights and substantiate ing to me, and to this player, who I estimated to be a 10 handicap. He the results with meaningful data. I’ve recently instructed our sales and was playing a competitor’s top-of-the-line clubs that he had tried at a fitting staff in Japan to do the same thing. “Go demo the competi- golf shop before purchasing. He hit a PING S55 7-iron 20 yards farther tion’s products,” I tell them, “and you’ll have a new appreciation for how and more accurately than with his model. Hitting a PING driver much PING is helping people play better golf. It starts with seeing the he picked up 5 mph of ball speed and improved his launch condi- results in your own game.”

“As head of PING Golf Japan, I took every opportunity Authorized PING Fitting Centres use the patented PING Colour Code Chart along with impact board and tape to check on the most to explain the benefits of custom-fit PING equipment.” appropriate lie angle a golfer should be using.

SPECIAL FEATURE Grow The Game

As part of our effort to grow the game of golf and to Properly Gapped introduce the element of Iron Chart fun into golf, Asian Golf will be partnering with various industry leaders to bring our readers timely tips and advice. We kick off this special service with a 10 yards PW 9i 8i 7i 6i 5i 4i column written by Jennifer King, President of KZG – the acknowledged global SLHKLYPUJ\Z[VTÄ[[LKNVSM clubs.

hen I first started KZG in every golfer had the perfect tools for their 1994, I attended many game. It didn’t take me long to learn that I trade shows and gathered wanted to work with these professionals as W as much insight as pos- clearly, they are the true “soul of golf.” sible from those in the business. Retailers Twenty years later, custom fitting is would tell me they wanted a product that universally recognized as the only method looked good and would sell cheap. In of improving the performance of your other words, they were in the market for a equipment. quick profit. Tour players and avid golfers seem to On the other hand, when I spoke with have no problem finding qualified club- professional fitters and builders (of which fitters and builders, but the majority of there were very few), I was moved by the golfers are left in the dark as to where to amount of time they would spend to ensure go and what to expect from a true fitting.

52 53 ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 166 JULY 2014

3. Your fitter will also adjust your iron set for “I think the ultimate key is to have lie. Having the proper lie angle throughout the golf clubs fit you, you not fit the your set is beneficial for two reasons: First, the right lie angle will allow the club to sit club. You got to get a club that fits.” properly on the ground at address—creat- ing a flush feeling and boosting confidence – Tiger Woods, PGA aesthetically. Second, the proper lie will ensure more consistent contact. You will instantly see an improvement in “[Fit Centres] give the amateur your ball striking capability. You will shave strokes off your game. Your lessons will the chance to be treated like us, become relevant. Welcome to the joys of a lifetime of great golf! and give help to the game, to low- Next month the topic will address how club-fitting will benefit the high handicap er the handicap a little, and build players. up more enthusiasm for the sport Cheers! Jennifer King of golf.” – Sergio Garcia, PGA

That is why 9 out of 10 golfers are still playing strength. These shafts should be frequency ill-fitting clubs. matched so that your set will play consis- Interestingly, it is the new player and tently throughout. After 5 or 6 lessons, high handicap player that stands to benefit your swing should become smooth and the most from custom clubs. More experi- seamless, and you may then be ready to enced golfers have had more time for trial re-shaft your original 4 iron heads and fill and error in the process of figuring out what out the rest of your set. At this point, you they should be playing, whereas those with will be well on your way to lowering your less experience don’t know what to expect scores. from feel, performance and distance. What’s 2. To score well, it is important that you have worse, if they take lessons around ill-fitting a properly gapped set. Your club-fitter will clubs, there will be no improvement. Because be sure each of your irons is lofted so that of this, many new players quit the game out you achieve a specific distance with each of sheer frustration. club. Generally, fitters loft clubs to gener- If you would like to enjoy your time on ate about a 10 yard (or 9 metres) difference the course, you really need to be custom fit. for each club. This way you can repeatedly Here are a few things you should be looking execute the same full swing while the for in your fitting session: clubs do the work for you in achieving the 1. If you are a beginner, you don’t need to necessary distance. buy 14 clubs coming out the gate. It is often better to start with a few irons—say #5, 7, 9 and PW. Your fitter will select “A custom-fit driver can eas- a club-head model with design fea- tures that will help you launch the ball ily give you 20 yards overnight; efficiently and strike center-face most changing your swing can take consistently. Your fitter will also select shafts to accommodate your size and months, or longer.” – Bubba Watson, PGA

ABOUT JENNIFER KING Dr. King is the founder and President of KZG, the #1 Custom ProLine which manufactures equipment distributed solely through qualified professional teachers and professional clubfitters. She has pioneered raising the bar for custom clubfitters around the globe and is a sponsor of the International Professional Association of ClubFitters (IPAC), an association dedicated to raising the bar for the clubfitting profession and to assist the golfing public on where to go and what to expect in a real fitting.

If you have a question for Dr. King, please e-mail her directly at [email protected] and put on the subject line: Asian Golf. You can also find out more about KZG and IPAC on their websites:www.kzg.com and www.ipacgolf.com t
XXXL[HDPN and www.ipacgolf.com ASIAN GOLF TOURISM Dalu Dunes, Mongolia

Well,Well, we arear not pulling your legs! We are stone cold serious be- cause Asian Club Business has been granted an exclusive preview of a golfgolf course thatthat opens for play this month in Inner Mongolia. JustJust in case you’reyou’re wondering as to where Inner Mongolia is, let’s first en- lightenlighten you.you. This is an autonomous region of China, very much like Hong Kong and Macau. It is locatedlocated in the north of China bordering Mongolia and Russia. It is the third largestlargest Chinese provincep (over 1.1 million square kilometers or 424,736 square miles)miles) and is sparselysparsely populated.popu The province has about 24 million inhabitants.

54 55 ASIAN GOLF PHOTO CREDIT: RYAN FARROW ISSUE 166 JULY 2014

Gobi Desert

Climate in Inner Mongolia is very different during the year and the winters are cold and can be very long, with frequent blizzards. Summer is usually short and warm. Would you like to know more about this new golf course? Well here goes. To start with, it is another outstanding course developed by the Schmidt Curley Design partnership and has not been named as yet (we believe that its working name is Dalu Dunes and it has a hotel next to the golf course named: “Yitai Savannah Hotel). The owner of this new facility is reported to be the Inner Mon- golia Yitai Group. The course is located about 90 kilometres away in a small town called Dalu which is about a 90-minute drive from the capital city of Hohhot. ASIAN GOLF TOURISM Dalu Dunes, Mongolia

We hope this design will not only change the misconceptions of the game in China, but also inspire developers to seek out great, natural sites like those found here, on the edge of the Gobi Desert.”

“Construction on this course started in public, we are excited to introduce the Throughout the design process, SCD late July 2012 and grassing, was completed Chinese population to a real links golf set- looked at not only preserving the existing in July 2013,” said Lee Schmidt, principal of ting,” Schmidt revealed. The site is located vegetation and natural sand dunes but also Schmidt Curley Design (SCD). The course on the edge of the Gobi Desert and along the micro undulations in the fairways and will be open to the public and may offer the banks of the Yellow River and features green contours. According to Schmidt, “In a limited number of memberships. The 20 meter sand dunes. This makes for some keeping with the great links courses of the target audience will be the population in stunning surroundings and the course British Isles we recognize the importance of Hohhot which is home to about 2.8 million consists of non-returning nines to make the challenging golfers with a variety of uneven people. most out of this dramatic terrain which fea- lies, partially blind shots, and opening up The course is an 18 hole lay-out that ture punch-bowl greens, redans, dramatic the golfer’s eyes to a variety of ways to play plays to a Par 72, 7,195 yardage. fall away greens as well as challenging each golf hole.” “Since the course will be open to the plateaus. The fairways are wide (70-80 yards

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in spots) in order to keep a playable golf they want a shot to end up, not necessar- a double ended driving range (400 yards), course during the windy season (Spring- ily where they want it to land and stop as a golf academy, a putting green and chip- Early Summer) which can see winds upward they have become accustomed to with the ping green. A five-acre “short game area” of 20-30mph. Depending on the days, hole overly manicured and lush conditions found with five separate target greens ranging location and wind direction, SCD has provid- in places like Beijing or southern China,” from 40 yards to 170 yards is also being ed alternate routes to play each hole with Schmidt explained. “We hope this design planned. the intention of challenging golfers to find will not only change the misconceptions of On the cards for future development is the right section of the fairway or by asking the game in China, but also inspire develop- an 18 hole Par 3 course and a “Himalayas” them to run a shot onto the green using the ers to seek out great, natural sites like those style putting course. side of a hill or mound instead of flying a found here, on the edge of the Gobi Desert,” This is a golf course that offers a totally green side bunker. he added. different and challenging experience and “We want golfers to think about where The course comes fully equipped with will be open for play from July this year. SPECIAL FEATURE Asia Pacific Golf Summit 2014

The prestigious Asia Pacific Golf he 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit, the eighth in the series, will induct two of Asia’s most prominent golf luminaries into the Hall of Fame was started in 2010 Asia Pacific Golf Hall Of Fame. The two men who will receive this prestigious award hail by the Asia Pacific Golf Group from Indonesia and Malaysia respectively. They are Tun Dr. Ahmad Sarji bin Abdul Hamid, Chairman of Permodalan and its primary objective is to NasionalT Berhad (PNB). PNB is Malaysia’s biggest fund management company. The other inductee will be Mr. Murdaya Widyawimarta Poo, President of the recognise individuals who have powerful Indonesian Golf Course Owners Association. Both Tun Dr. Ahmad and Mr. Murdaya will be honoured at the Gala Awards contributed to the growth of golf Banquet of the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit (APGS) which will be staged at the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore on November 14-15. in the Asia Pacific region. Commenting on the new inductions, Mike Sebastian, chief executive of- ficer of the Asia Pacific Golf Group (APGG), the owner and producer of APGS said, “Tun Dr. Ahmad and Mr. Murdaya are the leading lights for the growth of

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MR. MURDAYA WIDYAWIMARTA POO TUN DR. AHMAD SARJI BIN ABDUL HAMID MR. K.J. CHOI MR. K.J. DR. IR. CIPUTRA MR. RONALD FREAM PLAYER MR. GARY MR. LU LIANG HUAN MR. JACK NICKLAUS MR. BOONCHU RUANGKIT golf in Malaysia and Indonesia respectively and what they have done Ahmad reacted after the inaugural Eurasia Cup clash ended in a draw. collectively to date, places both nations on a firm foundation for the Commenting on his induction to the Asia Pacific Golf Hall Of growth of the game.” Fame, Tun Dr. Ahmad said, “I am honoured by the decision to induct Tun Dr. Ahmad is one of Malaysia’s most illustrious public and me into the Asia Pacific Golf Hall of Fame, and God willing, I will at- corporate officials. Besides his numerous directorships in corporations tend the 15th November 2014 occasion.” and public organisations, Tun Dr. Ahmad is also the Chairman of the Mr. Murdaya, is one of Indonesia’s most powerful entrepreneurs Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM). Under his leadership, PGM’s objec- and is a billionaire in his own right. He owns golf courses in Indonesia tives are to promote the sport of golf and to contribute towards its and has played a very dominant role in initiating various schemes to enjoyment and growth in Malaysia. grow the game of golf in Indonesia, including the promotion of golf As a show of confidence in Tun Dr. Ahmad, the Malaysian govern- tourism. ment appointed the PGM to become the local coordinator of The EurAsia Under his leadership, golf has experienced exponential growth in Cup, the annual Ryder Cup format tournament between Europe and Asia. the sprawling republic. “Malaysia has benefitted greatly from hosting The EurAsia Cup and it His flagship company is Central Cipta Murdaya which is a diverse has reinforced Malaysia’s capabilities to host a sporting mega-event plac- conglomerate and one of its companies is well-known for being the ing our great nation firmly on the global sporting calendar,” is how Tun. Dr. Indonesian manufacturer of Nike shoes. SINGAPORE THE GLOBAL LABORATORY FOR CHANGE.

Helping The Golf Industry TO Help Itself To Deliver The Best!

On-line registration will Open ON June 1, 2014. VISIT WWW.GOLFCONFERENCE.ORG Singapore, one of the most dynamic and forward thinking countries in the world will be the staging point for the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit. Innovation and cutting edge thinking will lead the thrust of the Summit and it will be powered by a theme that calls for a “New Drive. New Energy. A Revitalised Industry!”

APGS 2014 will push the envelope change as it is widely regarded as is perhaps the most spectacular for change as far as it will go the global laboratory for change integrated resorts in the world, in its continuing efforts to grow – a nation that is constantly on the imposing Marina Bay Sands the game in a rapidly changing the look-out for a better way to get which stands imposingly on the landscape that challenges the things done! fringes of the central business hub growth of the game of golf. of Singapore. A true wonder of the Singapore is the perfect fit for APGS 2014 will be staged at what 21st Century. Asia PacifIc Golf Summit 2014 – NEW DRIVE. NEW ENERGY. A REVITALISED INDUSTRY!

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golfbus nessnews Essential intelligence for the business of golf SPECIAL FEATURE Asia Pacific Golf Summit 2014

World class speakers are now being lined up for the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Summit (APGS) and looking at the ex- perts being lined up, the event promises to be one of the best staged so far in the series. APGS 2014 will be staged at the iconic and ultra-modern Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore on November 14 – 15. The theme for APGS 2014 is “New Drive. New Energy. A Revitalised Industry”.

very speaker who will be addressing the Summit has been carefully chosen to focus on game changing solutions designed to help grow the game of golf – there will be no room for negatives at APGS – we want to focus on how the industry can collectively work Etogether to think totally out of the box and to come through with revolutionary schemes to get golf growing,” said Mike Sebastian, chief executive officer of the Asia Pacific Golf Group, the owner and producer of APGS 2014.

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“Golf needs to take on a mission that is on a biblical scale – to evangelise and get kids excited about the game and to want to learn and play it.”

Against this exciting backdrop, take junior golf development. teaching of the game and its life values to youngsters than Joe. The 37 There is so much talk on this issue but solid follow-up action never year veteran was coach to the legendary South Korean super-star Se quite matches up. Many in the industry have heard so much about Ri Pak who is just one of the many thousands who Joe has taught and junior golf development that they have become blasé about it. What- guided. ever our take on this urgent need to grow the game, we need to be He has the spunk and get-up of a kid and all that he really cares united to come up with initiatives that will produce the next genera- about is having an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives tion of club members, golfers and professionals. using golf as his platform. Talk alone won’t do it. We need to make golf FUN and EXCITING Kudos and plaudits for Joe from fellow professionals and students for kids to opt for golf. We need to make golf competitive so that kids are profuse and impressive. “Joe is one of the most dedicated and will embrace it instead of walking over to other more team-oriented qualified golf professionals I have ever known. He has taught some sports or even the massively large hand-held video games arena of golf’s finest players around the world and is continually searching which is proving to be more compelling than any other recreational for new ideas that will help golfers of any level,” said Mike McGet- activity available. rick,1999 PGA Teacher of the Year. Golf needs to take on a mission that is on a biblical scale – to “Listening to Joe speak is like being transfixed to an impassioned evangelise and get kids excited about the game and to want to learn preacher addressing a large multitude of people – he is absolutely and play it. engaging, sincere and totally different from anyone I have heard To get the ball rolling, the celebrated and renowned three-time discussing golf and its growth,” said Sebastian. PGA Teacher Of The Year, Joe Thiel, founder of the Joe Thiel Golf “With his intimate understanding of Asia, its varied cultures and Schools and Master Coach of the Mizuno Golf School of Japan will his belief in Asia, Joe is going to make a huge impact at APGS 2014 speak on why juniors have to be courted NOW to take up the game. and must not be missed by anyone serious about the growth of golf There is perhaps no one more passionate about golf and the in the region – Joe is an absolute wizard,” Sebastian stressed. GROW

JOE THIEL Three-time PGA Teacher of the Year THE GAME!

Japanese golf giant Mizuno is on a mission. A mission to grow the game of golf in Southeast Asia.

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IRONS WOODS HYBRIDS WEDGES P PUTTERSUTTERS

JROIPL]XQRHXURSHFRP GAME IMPROVEMENT Black HaHatt Golf TipsTips

The TMG Academy at Lotus Valley Golf Resort in Bangkok, Thailand hass been my home facility for teaching and trainingg students. It’s been greatat fun witnessing studentss from all over the world improve there game at the state-of-the-art practice facilities. I feelel very lucky to meet so many golfers. The St. Louis Arch owever, I never forget my grass roots growing up outside St. Louis, Missouri (USA) and always recommend people from Asia to visit if they have an opportunity. It’s a magical place! H One of the landmarks that I do promote in my teachings-only because my experience has proven that humans learn better with visual images-is the World-Reknown St. Louis Arch. Yes, having a good visual image in your mind when pitching can help you improve your golf scores. When a shot is about 50 to 100 yards from the green, you will most likely be pitching. As is apparent, the best club to use from this range is the pitch- ing wedge. When pitching, set up the same as if you are hitting an iron shot, except when pitching you will have an open stance.

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Line up so that the ball is slightly back in your stance compared to a normal iron shot. As seen in the picture, make sure you visualize the ball travelling on an “arch-like” shape and landing on the green and rolling to the hole. In order to vary your distance with pitching, vary the length of your back- swing. Bring the club farther back for longer shots, and vice versa for shorter shots. Just like with any normal iron shot, be sure to keep the acceleration going; do not attempt to scoop it up into the air. The ball will spring off the clubhead and rise like a St. Louis Arch and land softly. In order to make sure the ball travels on an arch like shape, you must focus on swinging the club forward and not to decelerate. In summary, when pitching, make sure you visualize your ball going to- wards the target. Think of the St. Louis Arch! Trust me, your scores will lower in no time!

ABOUT TONY MEECHAI

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

www.tmggolfeducation.com GAME IMPROVEMENT Pro Tour Golf College

This Easy to Learn Method Will Take Your Game into the Low Golf Score Zone More Often There’s no doubt that over the past three decades the scoring average of tour players has dropped and many more professional golfers are raising the bar and produc- ing scores that years ago only a very small percentage of David Milne (left) and Lawrie Montague (right). [OLÄLSKH[HWYV[V\YUHTLU[Z^V\SKZOVV[

PGA Tour Player Steve Stricker

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combination of improved golf become a competitive amateur or profes- The Tipping Point equipment, better maintained sional golfer whenever the opportunity into the A Game Zone golf courses, improved golf arises. Here’s a quick question for you; “do you instruction and better practice What I mean is that you must develop A find it easier to play in the A Game Zone or methods has made a big difference to the the physical and mental tools that help you game at the elite end of the scale. harder?” to go lower when you are playing your best Less mental and physical effort is But here’s the reality of competition still, to drive you into the ‘A Game Zone’ as we those that have developed the ability to required to play your best and contrast that call it at Pro Tour Golf College. when you are playing poorly and I bet it score lower more often have the advantage The A Game Zone is your better than par in every tournament they play in. This was a seems like you are working a lot harder and average game – your low score average for fact of competitive golf 3 decades ago and is your score average for the round is higher. the season, with par being the average par still the case today. Study our golf score tipping point model for the season for all the events you play in. All successful professional golfers have (below) for a moment and notice how the This is not your adjusted average, it’s developed the Go Low ability. red dial is constantly moving up and down your total strokes played divided by total responding to the playing performance Go Low Ability holes played. frequency (green dotted line). You must develop the ability to go low to It’s your true playing ability against par. The red dial is responding to physical and mental effort from the golfer and you can clearly see that when mental and physical effort is lower - that is when you are not trying so hard, the golf scores are lower. Conversely when more effort is applied to produce low scores, it forces the dial up towards the high score average. Now it is absolutely nor- mal for the dial to be moving up and down but the aim should always be to reduce the high score average and lower the low score average. Trying to do something (like playing golf shots) implies that you cannot do it (you are trying to do it but not doing it). Trying to play golf and playing golf are diametrically opposed methods. Why Force What Should Be Allowed? Elite golfers who have learned many of their golf skills to the unconscious competence or autonomous stage need to understand that at this level you allow your golf skills to perform - you don’t try to make them perform. Applying extra effort does not give you access to the A Game Zone, it will keep your score average higher than it should be and it quite often leads to frustration and poor decisions, and also con- fuses you about the future GAME IMPROVEMENT Pro Tour Golf College “Applying extra effort does not give you access to the A Game Zone, it will keep your score average higher than it should be and it quite often leads to frustration and poor decisions, and also confuses you about 1 SHOT the future direction you should take your game.”

direction you should take your game. Imagine that your A Game is locked away in a slot machine and you need the right code to unlock it giving you access to the A Game Zone. The trouble is sometimes you can access it and play in the A Game Zone but you never seem to remember what the code was for accessing it, and it frustrates you because you know that you should be playing there more often. Let me say it again; trying won’t give you access to the A Game Zone. You have to play shots - not try to play shots, and you have to play golf and not try to play golf. MANY SHOT We teach our students a simple code and the philosophy behind it to explain why some golfers find it hard to get into the zone and the understanding you need to unlock Golf is a hard game because expecta- ducing additional stress much like what you your average game so you can get there tions often far outweigh ability on the golf will likely face on the golf course. more often. course. By applying the 25/75 Rule to longer Here’s the code that will unlock it for you; Many golfers get sucked into the il- approach shots and accepting that in all 25/75 lusion that they believe they should be likelihood just 1 shot out of 4 will be to your hitting mostly perfect golf shots to play well expectations you reduce the pressure to try The 25/75 Rule because they are very likely hitting a high to hit perfect golf shots, and are more likely The 25/75 Rule teaches us that just 1 golf percentage of shots to their expectations on to achieve better results that are actually shot out of 4 (25%) from greater than 100 the driving range. closer to your expectations. yards is likely to turn out as you expected it, Unfortunately this type of practice is In other words you are more likely to stay and 75 percent of your shots won’t. performed with little to no pressure, where out of our own way and just play shots, and This rule also says that 1 round out of 4 you are conditioning your nervous system to just play golf, and you will set yourself up to you will be to your expectations. repeat an action without continually intro- visit the A Game Zone more often.

70 71 ASIAN GOLF The hunt for the BEST in the Asian golf industry has begun!

Voting for the BEST in thirty-two special categories opens on May 1, and the search for the BEST will close on July 31.

Now is the time to rally your members and club supporters to vote on-line for their favourites. Note that voting is only IN CONJUNCTION WITH: valid via the 2014 Asian Golf Awards on-line link.

Please note that every completed voting form must include the full name and e-mail address of the person making the submission. This is for verification purposes. ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 167

PING’s Boss Shares His Thoughts

A fire-side chat withJohn Solheim Sr., chairman of PING. In this wide-ranging discussion, Solheim provides a fascinating insight to the award-winning range of equipment that his company produces together with his assessment of the state of the golf industry as he sees it. Don’t miss this rare interview with the man at the helm at PING. Golf Industry In Asia To Be Mapped The Asia Pacific Golf Group is embarking on an ambitious drive to launch the inaugural Golf Industry Benchmark Survey. This will be a milestone development for the industry as it will provide Inaugural Father And Son Tournament it with a scientific handle to understand trends impacting the industry and to help plan and guide the growth of the industry. The first ever tournament which will engage father and son teams will be staged in Ho Chih Minh City in October. It will be hosted by the award winning Long Thanh Golf Resort and teams are expected from throughout the region to compete for the Le Van Kiem Trophy.

An Exclusive One-On-One With “The Donald” Asian Golf has secured an exclusive session with Donald Trump, American billionnaire business magnate, investor, television personality, author and golf course owner. Always outspoken, Trump is bullish about the golf industry in general and hints that Asia is now on his radar. Find out what his outlook for the future of golf is like.

For all the latest news and views from the Asian golf scene, 72 ASIAN GOLF subscribe to Asian Golf – Asia’s most powerful golfing voice! www.asiapacificgolfgroup.com %GUV&QWTUGKP$UKC3CEKæE Best Course in Thailand 1st Runner-up 2010 & 2011 2002 – 2010 st Best Clubhouse in Asia 1 Runner-up 2011 & 2013 Eight times since 2000 Best Par-3 Signature Hole (#6) Best Championship Course 2001 – 2003 in Asia 2008

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