ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015 COVER STORY The golf world is buzzing about a new entrant into what is arguably one of the toughest businesses to be in. How-

„ ever, this has not discouraged Parsons Xtreme Golf. As the companyputs puts it, levera it, leveragingging patented patented technology and sophisticated manufacturing processes that integrate high-performancece alloys alloys and and elastomers, elastomers, PXG PXG produces produces eth the finest golf clubs in the world. You just can’t get bolder than that! Readd all about all about PXG PXG – an – exclusivean exclusive to Asian to Asian Golf. Golf.

40 PING Goes Long And nFriendly!dly! PING has done it again – the Phoenix-basedoenix-based manufacturer has blasted out ofthe the ga gatestees with two new innovative iron modelsodels th thataat promise significant performancence gai ngainss made possible by the company’smpany’s advanced engineering know- know-how.how. Besides the new irons,ns, PIN PINGG has has also expanded sitspo popularpulaar GGlide wedge and Cadencence TR putter families. TR p 4444 WanWantt T oTo Enjoy Yourr GolfGolf – Then tStrapSrap OnP AIQ !PIQ! 4848 BBoomoomB oBoomomBa BazookazookaIsB acIsk Back!! PIQPIQ is the latest entrantto toth the wear- Tour Edge, the little golf company from ableable golf market which incidentallyincidentally is a Batavia, Chicago is back in the news. Globally fastfast growinggrowing trend.trend. AsianAsian GolfGolf gotgot windwindof of renowned for its high-performing drivers, thisthis productproduct andand decideddecided toto checkcheck itit out.out. woods and irons it has brought back its iconic Bazooka driver and a brand new wedge that is eengineered specifically for hitting out of grgreensideeen bunkers.

36 TaylorMade Pushes The Limit TaylorMade has irreverently smashedhed through the record barrier andau launchednched a new trail-blazer and guessw whathat they’re they’re calling it? The Daddy LongL egLegs+s+ putter! putter! The company has decideded to to keep keep the the catchy name but insteadd ha haveve cranked cranked up up its performance capability. Bangkok, Thailand

8 Asian Golf Editorial Team 1010 Shared Thoughts From Publisher 6464 Next IssuIssuee „FASHION TREND 50 More Joy For Gals From FootJoy! Remember the days when women golfers had virtually no choice in golf shoes? The range available was limited (especially in most parts of Asia), and the mod- els tended to look no different to those that guys wore. It was like the shoes models for women were gender neutral.

„SPECIAL FEATURES 20 Asia’s Cream Of The Crop! Voting for the 2015 Asian Golf Awards is over and golfers have voted for their favourite clubs by the thousands. This year, the number of votes cast set a new record with well over 72,000 valid votes, which is more than the 65,000 votes cast than last year. 24 Malaysia Takes The Lead To Develop Juniors It is just not another academy but an establishment with a unique focus that is placed on providing an opportunity for youths from disadvantaged backgrounds to excel in golf. Ap- propriately tagged as the “Rising Stars Junior” programme, Ma- ƒ50 laysian conglomerate Sime Darby is investing over US$170,000 to kick-start this ambitious programme. 28 Golf Development Set To Boom In Vietnam ƒ20 Golf development is beginning to show signs of a pick-up in Vietnam. Leading the push is the Hanoi-based BRG Group which has teamed up with Nicklaus Design Group. When you have one of Vietnam’s most aggressive corporations tie up with a company that has built some 380 golf courses worldwide, you can expect some fireworks!

32 India – Golf’s Next China? Amongst those who hold out hope for India are some who even believe that on the heels of China posting its lowest GDP growth 32 rate in almost 25 years, India’s economy will overtake China in ƒ terms of its annual growth rate by 2016 which in turn is hoped to give golf development a boost. Asian Golf examines this scenario to see if this in fact can happen. ƒ24 54 Milestone Golf Research Almost Completed The soon-to-be-released Asian Golf Trends and Profiles Survey conducted by the Asia Pacific Golf Group and the Club Manag- ers Association of Asia will be a historic milestone. The survey, conducted on-line has been in the field for three months and preliminary findings provide an excellent and revealing insight to the marketplace as it relates to both demographic and psy- chographic information. ƒ54 „GAME-IMPROVEMENT

58 The Wonders Of Duct Tape! I hope most golfers reading this can relate to the quote ƒ58 ƒ60 above. Duct tape is a miracle tape used by many around the world. It’s a wide cloth adhesive tape originally designed for sealing joints in heating or air-conditioning ducts. Grow- ing up in a small town in the USA, I’ve witnessed my dad fixing some leaks just by using duct tape. Yes, most of the jobs would require many wraps of duct tape and the leak normally disappears!

60 Are Western Golf Instruction Methods Hurting Your Game? If So, We Have a Unique Solution for You The vast bulk of elite amateur golfers and professional golfers we talk to at Pro Tour Golf College are struggling to learn and make progress playing this great game to even a satisfactory level.

August 9, 1965 SINGAPORE MIKE SEBASTIAN ANGELA RAYMOND You Taught Us To Be Chief Executive Officer/Managing Editor President [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ] You Guided Us To Be BOLD!

LAWRENCE YOUNG JIM PRUSA International Roving Editor WORLD-CLASS! Editor (New Equipment) [ [email protected] ] [[email protected] ] You Showed Us The Pathway To RAQUEL M. ARCEGA SAIFUL SUFIAN Art Director & Ezine Development Art Director [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ]

MYRA PARAS THINK BIG! Accounts Executive [ [email protected] ] You Made Us What We Are Today.

ALICE HO WAYNE LWEE Marketing Executive Video Editor/Streaming services [ [email protected] ] [ [email protected] ]

Photographers GETTY IMAGES Contributing Professionals IMG ACADEMY, TONY MEECHAI, CHRIS SMEAL, DAVID MILNE & LAWRIE Thank You Singapore! MONTAGUE (PRO TOUR GOLF COLLEGE), NICK RANDALL, STEVEN GIULIANO

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he list of the “Most Powerful Prusa, who will be the executive in charge of officers of large Asian multi-national corpora- People In Golf In Asia” enters leading this programme said, “I am delighted tions, property developers, golf course own- its third year with a clear vi- that the programme that I worked hard on ers and golf media owners. sion to grow this prestigious bringing to Asia has now grown to take on “The leaders will be decided upon by an programme. new dimensions and there has never been a independent panel of judges who will select This “power list” serves as better time to recognize and acknowledge the candidates based on their respective anT official catalogue of the “Who’s Who” of the vision and effort of a select group of roles and contributions to the golf industry golf’s most influential and powerful men and men and women who are drawing on their in the region,” Prusa explained. He went on to women in golf in the Asia Pacific region. resources to grow the golf industry in the add that the search will cover the entire Asia Initially launched in 2013 by Golf Inc. the Asia Pacific.” Pacific region and the 2015 programme will influential North American magazine on the According to Prusa both APGG and Golf also include Australia and New Zealand. business of golf, with effect from 2015, the list Inc. will be looking at expanding the list The final list will be published both in the will be jointly produced and published by the in 2015 to focus the spotlight on a wider Asia Pacific region and North America in late Asia Pacific Golf Group (APGG) and Golf Inc. and more cross-sectional representation of September and those who make the list will “This is a significant collaboration industry leaders for the power list. be honoured during the Asian Golf Awards because it brings together two publishers “Unlike North America, many of the ceremony, which is golf’s version of the who have been committed to identifying the truly powerful people in golf in Asia tend “Oscars” scheduled to be held in Singapore people most important in helping to grow to be leaders of large conglomerates where during the course of the 2015 Asia Pacific the game of golf on a global scale,” said Jack their golf business interests are not really Golf Summit to be held on October 14-15. Crittenden, editor-in-chief of Golf Inc. mainstream – nonetheless what they do for “We are delighted and honoured to help Spearheading the thrust of this pro- golf through their investments in golf clubs show-case the powerful men and women gramme in Asia will be APGG as it is on the and golf courses and other related golf sec- who drive the multi-billion dollar golf club ground in the region and possesses the best tors is both significant and the life-blood of industry in the Asia Pacific and we are con- knowledge of who the movers and shakers of what keeps the industry humming,” Prusa fident that this collaboration will grow from the golf industry are. pointed out. strength to strength in the years to come,” Commenting on the collaboration, James Among the leaders are chief executive said Angela Raymond, president of APGG.

10 11 ASIAN GOLF GET DISTANCE. “HANDS DOWN...THE MOST GET CONSISTENCY. FORGIVING DRIVER IN GOLF.” - GolfWrx Gear Trials “ THE TOP-RATED SACRIFICE NOTHING. MODEL IN THE TEST.”

At PING, we want every shot to be your best. So we bring you the G30® iron. - Golf Magazine Club Test (Max-Game Improvement) It delivers distance with control, forgiveness with feel and shots that launch high and land softly. In other words, everything you need to hit more greens, more often. Get fit today or visit ping.com. You’ll be better for it.

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SF TEC™ Right-to-left shot bend Since its introduction, the PING G30 has been the #1-selling driver in golf. Its DISTANCE CONTROL performance is proven in Thin face generates faster ball the labs and on the course speeds for more distance with by golf’s most respected predictable results. clubtesters and fi tters. Most importantly, it’s proven every day by golfers of all skill levels who rely on the G30 driver’s added distance, forgiveness and consistency. Get fi t today LS and see why more golfers have TEC™ put a G30 driver in their bags Low, than any other brand since last stable spin summer. SOURCE: GOLF You’ll be better for it. DATATECH LLC UNDERCUT (ON-OFF COURSE; AUGUST 2014 – CAVITY DESIGN FEBRUARY 2015, COMBINED) Custom Tuning Port and undercut cavity help position the CG low-back ©2015 PING to optimize launch and forgiveness. P.O. BOX 82000 PHOENIX, AZ 85071 ©2015 PING P.O. BOX 82000 PHOENIX, AZ 85071 GD0315 COVER STORY Parsons Xtreme Golf ISSUEISSSSSSUEUE 1791177979 AUGUSTAAUUGUGUSTST 2015201015

DISRUPTIVE INNOVATION

Every once in a while, someone comes along and turns an industry on its head. Since the start of the Industrial Revolution, innovation and change have been constants. In more recent times, history tells us that two college drop-outs started up Apple Computers and Microsoft and in the process changed the way people use and interact with computers. Soon, many of us will be commuting in self-driving electric cars. All this plus more has happened because of the vision and passion of men like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates and organisations like Google. Their single-mind- edness to not just create something new but to think totally unboxed and to bring about a sea change of paradigm shifts, ^PSSJVU[PU\L[VOH]LHSVUNHUKSHZ[PUNPTWHJ[HUKLɈLJ[ on the industries that they have touched.

14 15 ASIAN GOLF BOB PARSONS COVER STORY Parsons Xtreme Golf ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

WHO IS BOB PARSONS?

Robert “Bob” Parsons is an out and out entre- preneur. The 65 year old American founded the Go Daddy group of companies, including domain name registrar GoDaddy.com. In 2011, Parsons sold ap- proximately 70 percent of Go Daddy to a private equity consortium and resigned his position as CEO. In 2014, he stepped down from his position as Execu- tive Chairman and currently serves on Go Daddy’s board. Parsons owns 28 percent of the company and is its largest shareholder. Parsons stepped down as executive chairman ini June of 2014 to focus on philanthropy and other businessb ventures. He and his wife have donated US$72U million to charity in the past three years and in DecemberD 2013, they joined The Giving Pledge, an initiativein started by Bill and Melinda Gates and War- renrer Buffet that requires signators to commit at least halfhha of their fortunes to charity.

hile virtually every sector of industry has been chang- “You know, if you focus on the dollars and ing, evolving and growing, the golf industry has also WeWe wwouldn’touldn’t bbringring ttheh clubs to cents you’re never going to create some- been changing. From the days of great inventors thing truly special. When you commit your- like PING’s Karsten Solheim, companies like Taylor- market if I didn’t believe that self to developing the best possible product Made, Callaway and Acushnet have all been evolving, without arbitrary limits, your people are changing and improving on their products. The one they are the absolute best.” – Bob Parsons more creative.” Wcommon goal that these companies, together with other notables in the Now, for a sense of how Parsons directs industry, has been to help improve the playing experience of the game of Welcome to the world of Parsons Ex- motorcycle dealerships, an advertising PXG, this statement tells it all. “I told Brad golf for golfers. While there has been change, it has been somewhat muted treme Golf! Asian Golf’s curiosity and burn- agency, Scottsdale National Golf Club and Schweigert (PXG’s managing director) and and controlled especially in the area of golf equipment like clubs which have ing interest to get the total low-down on PXG. A motorcycle enthusiast, he is well Mike Nicolette (PXG’s Director) to focus on been forced to work within the permissible constraints set by the game’s PXG led to it being granted interviews with on his way to building the world’s largest building golf clubs that perform better than gate-keepers. There have undoubtedly been other constraints that have Parsons and his executive team and what Harley-Davidson dealership in Scottsdale, anything else without regard to cost. They held back the pace of change which most likely involve access to funds and transpired was an absolute revelation. Arizona. This has a bearing on how he have done just that and the fanatics who share-holder approval that many companies have to contend with. Parsons is given to very direct speak intends to grow PXG because it provides an have purchased PXG clubs couldn’t be hap- Now, against this backdrop, what will happen if most of the constraints and does not beat around the bush and insight into the man’s vision and his outlook pier with the results.” are removed and access to funds is readily available and inventors are un- this is something one would expect from a of the future. He is undeniably a hands-on Not only are the fanatics going bananas shackled? Well, for a myriad of reasons, we can’t see this happening. man who fought the Vietnam War and was boss who believes that the buck stops at his over PXG’s clubs - even tour players are wax- However, there’s one company that has decided to take on the challenge decorated with a Purple Heart and Combat desk! He is in charge! ing lyrical about Parson’s equipment. PXG’s and it’s a brand new player in the golf equipment theatre of dreams. There Action Ribbon. He is a big numbers man “We wouldn’t bring the clubs to market first contracted tour professional is Ryan are many differing views and opinions on this new comer and the products having built multi-billion dollar corpora- if I didn’t believe that they are the absolute Moore who tried out the clubs at the Hyun- that it has begun rolling out but we at the Asia Pacific Golf Group view this tions and with this track record behind him, best,” he declared with tremendous empha- dai Tournament of Champions and the rest as a highly significant development. We like to call this DISRUPTIVE INNOVA- Parsons feels that for PXG, now is actually a sis. Parsons continued, “We set out to create is history. “After having a great few months TION! Why so? Well, a disruptive innovation is an innovation that helps create great time to enter the golf equipment mar- the finest golf equipment in the world and on the course and achieving notable per- a new market and value network. And by our reckoning, what Robert “Bob” ket because the segment it serves has been I believe we have done that. I told the PXG formance gains with PXG clubs in my bag, Parsons the owner of Parsons Extreme Golf (PXG) is doing is precisely that! starved for something new and innovative. staff right from the outset that we would the option of extending my relationship With a personal net worth in excess of US$2 billion, one wonders why “We cater to golfers who are not only pas- not go to market unless I wanted to play our with Parsons Xtreme Golf felt like a natural Parsons opted to start up a golf equipment company especially given sionate (maybe obsessed is a better word) clubs and felt they were better than anything progression,” is how Moore summed up his the rocky times that this sector is currently experiencing. “I love the about the sport, but who are willing to else.” And guess what, he is a man of convic- experience with PXG clubs. game of golf – and I have always been interested in the difference the strike a check if they believe the equipment tion: “Now, not only do I play our equipment After capturing the visionary thoughts right equipment can make in the enjoyment of the game,” is how he will improve their game,” he explained. exclusively but the difference is so noticeable of Parsons, Asian Golf felt that it would explains himself with regards to the formation of PXG. “For a number Parsons is an entrepreneur with the I can’t stand to hit anything else!” The boss only be fair to speak with the man who is of years, I personally hit just about every new golf club released and proverbial Midas touch. After stepping has spoken – the battle has begun! charged with the task of launching and tested every shaft combination. I’d typically spend about a quarter down as the founder of Web-hosting giant One observation of Parsons is that he is building a long and sustainable future for of a million (U.S. dollars) a year just on equipment so I came to know GoDaddy, he shifted his focus in 2014 to a bold man very accustomed to playing the PXG. He is Brad Schweigert, PXG’s managing what worked and what didn’t, and developed ideas about what I’d philanthropy and other business ventures. big numbers game and is not fazed by large director. The following are excerpts drawn like and how I’d like to see golf clubs made.” Today, he owns nine shopping malls, three financial investments to back a business. from an interview with Schweigert:

16 17 ASIAN GOLF COVER STORY Parsons Xtreme Golf ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

We are also con- stantly thinking of ways to deliver a better consumer fitting and buying experience and we are not afraid to take risks and try something different.” – Brad Schweigert

ASIAN GOLF: You have come to PXG SCHWEIGERT: No doubt that we are very in pictures certainly tells us that the a great deal of mass from the centre of the SCHWEIGERT: The screws are weight- AG: In your time, you have worked with an impressive track record. Just much a start-up in every sense of the word. products are not run-of-the-mill by club and redistribute it around the perim- ing elements. We have incorporated very VUZVTLVM[OLÄULZ[WYVK\J[ZPU[OL the number of patents owned by you In some ways it makes our life a bit more chal- any stretch of the imagination. It’s eter in the form of high-density tungsten distinctive looking weights on all of our business. What does this latest phase speaks to this. Give us a sense of what lenging; however, after experiencing both equipment innovation taken to a weighting. The high MOI design combined products to help give PXG clubs a signature in your career mean to you in terms the journey has been like for you at types of environments I completely under- whole new level! with the unique TPE core structure delivers look. While all the products have them, of work satisfaction? Do you feel PXG? very consistent distance control, even on they actually serve some different func- that you and your team have created stand why start-ups typically produce more SCHWEIGERT: Absolutely! And the pictures miss hits. But my favorite part is the feel. tions on each club. On the irons, tungsten products that have set a whole new BRAD SCHWEIGERT: I’ve spent my entire innovative products and services. It is very don’t even begin to capture some of the The unique construction makes these irons weights are strategically placed around the paradigm for golf equipment? professional career in the golf equipment natural for large companies to get caught up best aspects of the technology. The irons feel incredible. The feel really has been one perimeter to help optimize the CG and in- industry. However, my journey with Bob and in vicious product cycles that inherently re- feature the thinnest face ever produced. SCHWEIGERT: In my mind this is unques- of the most immediately recognizable and crease the MOI. On the putters the weights tionably the best line of golf clubs ever PXG thus far is very different than anything I’ve ward safe and conservative behaviors - it is re- Our faces are actually so thin, that without distinctive features in the irons. double as alignment features and allow produced. I’m very proud of what we have experienced before. The difference really starts ally difficult to inspire innovative thinking and the internal supporting TPE (thermo plastic golfers to easily modify the head weight accomplished thus far, but in some ways we with the culture and environment Bob created develop real breakthrough technology in a elastomer), they would dent on impact. One AG: The “screws” on all the equip- (PXG makes weights in both Tungsten have just scratched the surface of a whole for the business. He established extremely conservative business culture. Most start-up of the key features of our iron technology is ment is a fascinating feature. Talk to high performance goals for our products, and Titanium). On the metal woods, the new technology platform. The future is very companies understand that the only path to the fact that the TPE core material actually this. What functions do these screws but also armed us with all the resources we weights are designed to be easily moveable bright. success is to create something truly different. provides structural stability to the face. We perform?perform? needed, removed any arbitrary development Start-up cultures incentivize bigger risk taking toto help create a more flflexibleexible head head design. design. The future most certainly looks promis- originally added the TPE in the core to just ThisThis gives our professionalprofessional fittersfitters thethe opop-- time constraints and gave us the freedom and and aggressively seek out disruptive innova- ing and bright and as stated earlier in this help produce a better feel; which it happens portunityportunity to really optimize the club head inspiration to make something truly unique tions. At PXG we have already developed report, Parsons is a serious businessman and to do incredibly well. The unexpected side forfor the player to achieve the best possible and very special. some incredibly innovative product technol- is a big numbers man – will this mean that benefit of the TPE material core was it also performance.performance. Along with moving weight PXG will throw its production line into high AG: You came from facilities that set ogy that is unlike anything ever produced supports and reduces the stress in the face. toto shape ball flight,flight, our our fi ttersfitters can can easily easily gear and churn out new models at a match- industry standards in technology, design before and we are not stopping there. We are This unique structure produces incredible modifymodify the head weight or swing ing pace? To this Parsons shot right back: “I and production. Give us a sense of how also constantly thinking of ways to deliver a performance results. The clubs deliver higher weightweight by increasing or decreasing believe we already produce equipment that you and your team have been able to set better consumer fitting and buying experi- ball speeds, higher launch angles, and slightly the number of the heavy platplati-i- out performs anything else in the market. new standards in a start-up environment. ence and we are not afraid to take risks and lower spin, which produces a high boring numnum colored tungstentungsten weights.weights. We will continue to explore ways to improve How much of a challenge was this? try something different. trajectory that is extremely long. Although The black coloured weightsweights the game and will only release new equip- AG: We have not had the privilege the design looks like a blade, it actually has an inin thethe metalmetal woodswoods aarere ment when we believe that what we have to be able to see your products in exceptionally high level of forgiveness. The made fromfrom a lightweight created is significantly better than what we [OL¸ÅLZO¹I\[^OH[^LOH]LZLLU thin-faced hollow core allows us to remove TTitaniumitanium allalloy.oy. currently offer!”

After having a great few months on the course and achieving no- table performance gains with PXG clubs in my bag, the option of extending my relationship with Parsons Xtreme Golf felt like a natural progression.” – Ryan Moore

18 19 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE 2015 Asian Golf Awards ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

This year, the number of votes cast set a new record with well The Asian Golf Awards is not dissimilar to any democratic voting over 72,000 valid votes, which is more than the 65,000 votes process where the voting public determines the best through the last year. means of the popular vote. “Every year has seen an increase in the number of votes This year will also see some new award categories which registered and we are delighted to see that 2015 will go down include: in the record books as the best in the series to date,” observed Angela Raymond, president of the Asia Pacific Golf Group. THE ASIA PACIFIC VISION AWARD She went on to add that the increase in votes is another THE ASIA PACIFIC TREND-SETTING AWARD measure of the importance attached to the Asian Golf Awards which is the only pan-Asian recognition programme for the THE ASIA PACIFIC ENTERPRISE AWARD golf club industry in the region. THE ASIA PACIFIC INNOVATOR AWARD The categories in the 2015 Asian Golf awards include the THE ASIA PACIFIC GOLF WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR AWARD following: THE ASIA PACIFIC GOLF COACH AWARD

BEST COURSE IN ASIA PACIFIC The Asia Pacific Golf Life-Time Achievement Award will be BEST CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE IN ASIA PACIFIC presented to two deserving recipients this year and the winners are BEST GOLF RESORT IN ASIA PACIFIC Iain Roberts, the renowned golf professional and the group execu- BEST CLUBHOUSE IN ASIA PACIFIC tive director of the Mission Hills Group, China. This award is being BEST NEW COURSE IN ASIA PACIFIC presented in recognition of his illustrious 40-year career in the game of golf. Roberts was also recognized this year as a PGA Master BEST RENOVATED COURSE IN ASIA PACIFIC Professional, a rare honour that places him amongst only 38, out of BEST COURSE BY COUNTRY IN THE ASIA PACIFIC a total of 7000 members who have achieved this status. BEST GOLF DESTINATION IN ASIA PACIFIC The other Asia Pacific Golf Life-Time Achievement Award will BEST COURSE ARCHITECT IN ASIA PACIFIC be presented to Singapore’s veteran professional golfer, Mardan Mamat who has had multiple wins on both the Asian and European BEST MAINTAINED COURSE IN ASIA PACIFIC tours. He is also the first player from Singapore to win a European BEST PRO-SHOP IN ASIA PACIFIC Tour event and the first to represent his country at the Open Cham- BEST VALUE FOR MONEY EXPERIENCE pionship. “Each year, the Asian Golf Awards recognizes the best amongst Commenting on the Asian Golf Awards, Asia’s top golf the best in Asia and we are delighted that once again, the golf- course architect, Brian Curley, principal of the award-winning ing public have voted by the thousands and have made up their design firm of Schmidt Curley Design said, “The Asian Golf minds as to the what fits the bill as being amongst the best in Asia,” Awards is a programme that is seen as the best barometer to declared Raymond. measure the stature of golf clubs and it is an independent as- sessment that is conducted by golfers in the region.”

Voting for the 2015 Asian Golf Awards is over and golfers 6YNHUPZLKI`[OL(ZPH7HJPÄJ.VSM.YV\W[OL(ZPHU.VSM(^HYKZ[OLZP_- have voted for their favourite clubs by the thousands. [LLU[OPU[OLHUU\HSZLYPLZPU]VS]LKNVSMLYZ[OYV\NOV\[[OLYLNPVUJHZ[PUN[OLPY ]V[LZPUH[OYLLTVU[OWVSS[VZLSLJ[[OLILZ[PUMVY[`LPNO[H^HYKJH[LNVYPLZ

20 21 ASIAN GOLF Golf’s First Ever Town Hall Debate IT’S DIFFERENT. IT’S REVOLUTIONARY. IT’S GAME-CHANGING!

It’s a refreshing change. It will be all about the vocal be moderated by world class Golf club management cut and thrust of debate at public speakers. Come and professionals and the golf its very best. Delegates will be part of golf’s first ever industry will engage in a share thoughts and ideas, Town Hall Debate. highly exhilarating discourse challenges and frustrations Book your seat now and be a part of golf’s evolving history in Asia! over two days that will and discuss trends shaping The dates are October 14 feature the industry’s most the future of the golf club and 15 and the venue is $UKC3CEKæE*QNH6WOOKVr(ZEKVKPI&QORGNNKPI7QVCNN['KHHGTGPV engaging and engrossing industry. the award winning Orchid For More Details Visit Official Websitewww.golfconference.org To Register Go To http://tinyurl.com/APGS2015 dialogue led by delegates to Country Club & Resort in the Summit. The dialogue sessions will Singapore.

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Strategic Business Partners Official Business Partner For Beverages Register Online: tinyurl.com/APGS2015 SPECIAL FEATURE Junior Golf Development ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

The objective of Rising Startar JuniorsJuniors isis notnot only to train these youths inin golfgolf butbut alsoalso to develop skills and uplift their liveslives toto becomebecome good, well-rounded and successfulsful citizenscitizens concon-- tributing positively to society.” – Steven ThielkeThielke

t is just not another academy but an establishment with a unique focus that is placed on providing an opportunity for youths fromm disadvandisadvan-- taged backgrounds to excel in golf. Appropriately taggedd as the “Risin“Risingg Stars Junior” programme, Sime Darby is investing over US$170,000S$170,000 to kick-start this ambitious programme. 4HSH`ZPHPZVULVM[OLÄYZ[UH[PVU»ZPU[OLYLNPVU[VHUZ^LY[OLJHSS[VOLSWKL]LSVW The programme is targeted at Malaysian youngsterss between the Iages of 12 to 17. In the first phase, eighteen youths from a pooll of of 240 240 apap-- Q\UPVYNVSMLYZ0UHIVSK[YPWHY[P[LPUP[PH[P]L[OLUH[PVU»ZSLHKPUNNVSMJS\I[OL2\HSH plicants have been selected to participate in a comprehensive gogolflf training programme which started in May. As part of the sponsorship, ththee qualifiqualifieded 3\TW\Y.VSMHUK*V\U[Y`*S\I23.**OHZLU[LYLKPU[VHWHY[ULYZOPW^P[O4H- candidates have been provided with training equipment, professionalfessional SH`ZPH»ZJVYWVYH[LNPHU[:PTL+HYI`[VSH\UJOHNVSMHJHKLT`MVYQ\UPVYZHUK4:; coaching and transportation to and from KLGCC throughout tthehe course. All of the training will be conducted at KLGCC’s premises whichch is .VSM[OLVWLYH[VYVM[OLJS\I»ZNVSMHJHKLT` equipped with world class facilities.

24 25 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Junior Golf Development ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

“Golf is often perceived as a sport for regardless of their background. Q Phase 1 began with the screening of the elite in Malaysia; and the programme A keen golfer himself, Tun Musa Hitam 240 participants at KLGCC via a series will extend golf training to disadvantaged said, “We see the potential of the Rising of physical fitness tests monitored by youths with limited resources – an initia- Star Juniors programme to achieve exactly certified instructors, from which 18 junior tive we believe has never been introduced this. Golf is a sport that can help develop trainees were selected for the academy. before,” he said. character as it requires high standards of Q Phase 2 was put into force in May Unlike many junior golf development behaviour and sportsmanship. Honesty, where 18 junior trainees started a 40- programmes, the Malaysian initiative will integrity and self-regulation are pre-requi- week training stint at KLGCC three times be different in that it will also provide a sites of character building and we believe support structure for the homes by offer- that the programme will greatly impact a week for two hours. During this phase, ing assistance financially, physically, mor- the lives of the selected youths. the students will first learn the fundamen- ally and emotionally. According to Thielke, “With the training in golf, they will be tals of putting, chipping, pitching, swing this is important for the individuals under exposed to positive developmental oppor- and bunker play. They will then proceed the Rising Star Junior programme so they tunities and potentially turn this sport into to learn the rules and etiquette, playing do not feel isolated from the home. their vocation someday. We also hope that on the golf course, course management In launching the Rising Star Juniors this opportunity will help to narrow the and introduction to the psychology of programme, Sime Darby’s chairman Tun gap, as golf is often perceived as an elite the game, which will help prepare them Musa Hitam said the foundation firmly be- sport,” he added. mentally for the sport. In the final stages lieved that all children should have equal The Rising Star Juniors programme is of this phase, they will learn advanced access to developmental opportunities, divided into three phases:- shot-making and also be introduced into the club environment and golf industry. Q Phase 3 is a continuity programme With the training in golf, they will where the 18 junior trainees will be rec- ommended to train for an additional 40 be exposed to positive develop- weeks under the advanced 9-level train- mental opportunities and potentially turn ing programme. The Rising Star Juniors programme Golf is a sport this sport into their vocation someday. We is a perfect template for countries and that can help clubs in the region to follow. What is also hope that this opportunity will help to most important is that it also serves as a develop character as it strong example for corporations to throw narrow the gap, as golf is often perceived their support behind giving youngsters a requires high standards chance to learn how to play golf. Kudos to as an elite sport.” Sime Darby and KLGCC! of behaviour and sportsmanship. Honesty, integrity and self-regulation are pre-requi- sites of character building and we believe that the programme will greatly impact the lives of the se- lected youths.” – Tun Musa Hitam

“The objective of Rising Star Juniors is not only to train these youths in golf but also to develop skills and uplift their lives to become good, well-rounded and successful citizens contributing positively to society,” said Steven Thielke, KLGCC’s general manager. Recalling the launch of the programme in April which involved an outreach to 30 children’s shelter homes within the Klang Valley (a district within the Malaysian state of Selangor), Thielke said, “We were pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response from the homes. The principals were very excited with the Rising Star Juniors programme and the numerous opportunities in store for the children. Besides golf, there will also be other activities including leadership development skills, life skills and community engagement,”

26 27 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Vietnam ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

ver the last few decades, Vietnam has made Commenting on the partnership, Madame Nga, said, “As a pas- Those who have been keen Vietnam sionate golfer myself, I am proud to see that through this collabora- remarkable progress in reducing poverty. The per- tion with the Nicklaus Companies, we have taken major steps to centage of people living in poverty dropped from As a passionate golfer watchers since the Americans were help make golf grow in Vietnam and to reach global standards in a almost 60% in the 1990s to less than 3% today. myself, I am proud to relatively short time span.” booted out of the country after the Viet- Vietnam’s growth rate has averaged 6.4% per year She is also the proud recipient of the 2014 Asia Pacific Golf Woman nam War, will have to acknowledge that for the last decade. In 2014, GDP growth was 6 %, see that through this collabora- Entrepreneur Of The Year, an award presented to her by the Asia Pacific Oprojected to flatten in 2015 and start to pick up in 2016. Golf Group in recognition of her bold initiatives to grow the game of the Indo-China nation is a development Another indicator of Vietnam’s strong economy is its external tion with the Nicklaus Compa- golf in Vietnam. success story. It has transformed from sector which continues to be an important engine of growth. Export Typical of her vision is the proposed junior golf development pro- value in US dollar terms is estimated to have grown by 11.6% in 2014, nies, we have taken major steps gramme, called the BRG VietGolf U16 programme which is designed being a war-ravaged country and one outperforming other countries in the region. Vietnam’s traditional to help make golf grow in Viet- to offer free golf lessons to Vietnamese children throughout Vietnam of the poorest in the world, with a per labour-intensive manufacturing exports such as garments, footwear aged between 8 years to 16 years. The thrust of the programme is to and furniture, continue to grow at a rapid clip. Recent additions to the nam and to reach global stan- serve as a unique corporate social undertaking to offer young Viet- capita income below US$100, to a lower export basket such as hi-tech and high-value products (cell phones, namese an opportunity to play golf. computers, electronics, and automobile parts) have also maintained dards in a relatively short time It is hoped that through this programme and with the support of middle income country within a quarter rapid growth, and have now become the largest share of export. the Jack Nicklaus Academy, the game of golf will receive a major im- Against this phenomenal growth, golf development is begin- span.” – Madame Nga petus to grow and to produce potential champions who can excel at of a century with per capita income of ning to show signs of a pick-up. Leading the push is the Hanoi-based international events like the 2018 Vietnam Amateur Open, the Asian Games and professional tours like the Asian Tour, European Tour and over US$2,000 by the end of 2014. BRG Group which has teamed up with The Nicklaus Group. When a company that has built some 380 golf courses worldwide, you even the PGA Tour in time to come. you have one of Vietnam’s most aggressive corporations tie up with can expect some fireworks! Nicklaus Design, is the global golf course design firm founded by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, and is widely regarded as the world’s leading design firm. In announcing the historic partnership, both companies declared that they will jointly strive to develop golf in Vietnam to encompass various golf and golf related businesses. The partnership is to cover the establishment of a Jack Nicklaus Golf Academy in Vietnam, the establishment of new golf courses and resorts throughout the country and the launch of an ambitious junior golf development pro- gramme. The academy is expected to be operational towards the last quarter of this year. The chairman of the BRG Group, Madame Nguyen Thi Nga is widely regarded as the wealthiest woman entrepreneur in Vietnam with interests in a wide range of businesses including golf. The BRG Group already oper- ates two successful award-winning golf courses in Hanoi with the third that will be fully opened soon. It is a Nicklaus-designed course which is said to be the first 18-hole course in Southeast Asia which offers two holes on every green. It is the Legend Hill Golf Resort in Hanoi.

Madame Nga receiving her award from Angela Raymond, 28 29 ASIAN GOLF president of the Asia Pacific Golf Group.

SPECIAL FEATURE Focus On India ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

PHOTO CREDIT: WWW.INCREDIBLEINDIA.ORG

mongst those who hold out hope for India are some who even believe that on the heels of China posting its lowest GDP growth rate in almost 25 years, India’s economy will overtake China in terms of its an- nual growth rate by 2016 which in turn is hoped to give golf develop- ment a boost. This assumption has the backing of the International Monetary AFund which puts India’s projected growth in 2016 ahead of the organization’s esti- mates for China (which stand at 6.8 and 6.3 percent for 2015 and 2016, respectively). Based on this scenario, India is the fastest growing major emerging economy in the world. The IMF’s projections, which normally changes like the direction of the wind, represent a substantial increase from the actual growth rates of the In- With the buzz of hope reaching an almost deafening pitch as Indian prime dian economy in 2013 and 2014, when the economy grew by 5 and 5.8 percent respectively. We’ll leave this IMF speak minister Narendra Modi steers his nation towards a pathway of promise and aside and move on to something more in keeping with growth, the languid golf industry in this ancient nation has begun to stir. Golf this magazine, which is the business of golf. What Asian Golf hopes to share with you has course architects, course maintenance equipment suppliers and builders nothing to do with blue sky thinking and every- thing nice about golf. It gets down to basics and have all of a sudden taken a keen interest in India and are moving to the pul- draws on hard facts and prevailing views of experts on the ground who know what is sating and infectious rhythm of the Bollywood bop. happening in the country. The current mood as it

32 33 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE Focus On India ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

by the industry and we need rain water understanding with urban developers, town impact amongst juniors in India. Young harvesting in large water bodies on courses planners and real estate developers, then stars like Anirban Lahiri, Gaganjeet Bhullar, to counteract this,” he added. we can see the number of new courses SSP Chowrasia, Shiv Kapur and the even If Modi’s reforms take root and given the While the outlook for golf course devel- grow to 20 to 30 per year. There are 53 cities younger brigade of players like Rashid opment looks bleak, it is all not doom and in India with a population of one million Khan and Khalin Joshi according to Narain entrepreneurial ability of Indians, and if we gloom in the land that is home to the oldest plus which combined with rising incomes are providing a lot of hope. “And at even golf club outside of Britain, the Royal Calcutta should spur demand for high quality leisure a younger level, 17 year old Subhankar can get enough education and understanding Golf Club which was opened back in 1829. and lifestyle options.” Looks like the future Sharma won the Taiwan Men’s Amateur this Everything is contingent on the passage of golf is in the hands of politicians in India! year which is very promising. This keeps with urban developers, town planners and real of the Land Acquisition Bill. Observers feel So, are there any silver linings for golf? interest in golf high in media and among that this could see a spurt in development Well, junior golf development seems to be parents and kids,” Narain added. estate developers, then we can see the number of but the effect is not going to be immedi- in good hands. The Indian Golf Union (IGU) We started this probe on the premise ate. “We don’t see more than five to seven runs a healthy national junior and sub junior that India offers hope to be the next China new courses grow to 20 to 30 per year. new courses per year getting started over circuit with around 45 tournaments around in golf but it seems that the assumption – Rishi Narain the next five years unless GDP growth hits 9 the country. In addition there are many is far from the truth. While golf develop- and 10% like it did in the 2004-2008 period,” smaller junior tours like Albatross which ment in China has come to a grinding halt

Royal Springs Golf Course Aamby Valley Golf

Delhi Golf Club DLF Golf & Country Club Rhasid Khan Anirban LahiriKhalin Joshi Gaganjeet Bhullar Shiv Kapur

relates to golf development in India is property sales. Nothing really new here! political dilemma for the growth of golf in because of the Chinese government’s ban nothing to get into a flap about as new golf Combined with high interest rates, the India. And it doesn’t stop there! There is the India is gone - it is running out of on golf course development, India also has course development is completely linked other big bugbear is land acquisition which issue of water which is the life-blood of any its problems which is anchored on the avail- to the real estate industry which is the only the Modi government is trying to reform. golf course. “Water shortage in most urban water, less and less open land, ability of land which is hard to come by and commercially feasible model for golf. “The “The land acquisitions bill is definitely seen areas is a big problem but many of India’s remains very expensive. last two years have seen a huge slowdown as a key for the real estate sector as it will busiest golf courses have installed sewage soaring land costs and the difficulty in For the last word on golf in India, we in the sector especially in the luxury seg- clear the way for large projects aimed at treatment plants to supply water to counter- turned to a man who loves the country but ment, where golf related developments are new industrial corridors and smart cities to act this issue,” explained Narain. assembling adequate sized parcels. holds out little hope for golf’s future there. positioned,” revealed Rishi Narain, managing acquire land more easily,” said Narain. The The country faces an enormous task He is the renowned golf course architect director of the highly respected Rishi Narain biggest obstacle to golf course develop- to manage its rapidly dwindling water Narain declared. According to him, 2014 keep the juniors busy. “Bangalore due to its and legend, Ron Fream who had this to say: Golf Management company. He pointed out ment in India is the challenge to get agricul- supply. According to Narain, “A few of the saw 16 courses being built but in 2015, only mild climate is becoming a hotbed of junior “India is gone - it is running out of water, that extremely high interest rates on home tural land use to be changed. The passage newest courses in Bangalore have tapped six or seven were built. Most of these are 9 golf development and is attracting the best less and less open land, soaring land costs loans of 18-21 % p.a. are the norm. for this bill is going to be paved with huge into sewage lines some kilometers away to hole executive courses and only one 18 hole coaches and best talent. Every major club and the difficulty in assembling adequate So, golf development in India is not resistance in the Congress Party controlled ensure supply.” He went on to add that the championship course was built in this period. has a healthy junior coaching programme sized parcels. Together with these factors something that is really associated with the Upper House of the Indian parliament challenge is further compounded by many Narain is optimistic for the long haul but still there is a lot more that can be done and the stifling Indian bureaucracy, every- love of the game – it is more about a prop- which is calling the land acquisition bill environmental activists who oppose golf though. “If Modi’s reforms take root and to grow the game further,” Narain said. thing points to a dead end. Do not equate erty play involving big property developers anti-farmer and anti-poor. development citing the huge water guzzling given the entrepreneurial ability of Indians, The rise of the new guard of world class India with China’s golf growth twenty years using golf as an excuse to make money on So, the land issue presents a massive elements of golf. “We need active education and if we can get enough education and professional golfers is also having a major ago. It’s not comparable!

34 35 ASIAN GOLF EQUIPMENT FOCUS TaylorMade Daddy Long Legs + putter ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

TaylorMade has always been pretty avant-garde in selecting names for its various products. Over the years, we’ve seen this company take a leap to use names like “Burner”, “Ghost”, “Spider” and a few more imaginative and creative names that on ÄYZ[ZPNO[^V\SKUV[JVUQ\YL\WPTHNLZVMNVSMJS\IZ0U^OH[NV[(ZPHU.VSM»Z attention was the launch of a game-changing putter that was tagged as Daddy Long Legs. This name really took the cake – a really big slice at that! History would go on to record this putter as TaylorMade’s highest MOI putter, tipping [OLTVTLU[VMPULY[PHZJHSLZH[ TVYL[OHU\UP[ZOPNOLY[OHU[OL company’s previous highest-MOI putter, the Ghost Spider S.

36 37 ASIAN GOLF EQUIPMENT FOCUS TaylorMade Daddy Long Legs + putter

wo years later, TaylorMade has irreverently smashed through the record barrier and launched a new trail- blazer and guess what they’re calling it? The Daddy Long Legs+ putter! The company has decided to keep the catchy name but instead has cranked up its performance capability. TWhen Asian Golf tested and reviewed its predecessor, the Daddy Long Legs in 2013, we were bowled over by its stability and found it to be a truly stable putter – one of the best we’ve ever tested. We found the first generation Daddy Long Legs to be easy to aim, easy to stroke and a putter with a terrific feel. Fast forward to 2015 and the brand new Daddy Long Legs+ putter – what makes it better than its 2013 namesake? Well, to start with, TaylorMade has declared it to be “the most technologically-advanced and stable putter it has ever created.” Here’s the drill-down on the putter - the DLL+ put- ter features the new SuperStroke XL 2.0 grip with 125 gram counter weight and a True Temper lightweight steel shaft for extreme counterbalancing to maximize stability during the stroke. The DLL+ puts 200% more weight above the hands to raise the balance point 2” to allow greater control of the heavier head. Combine this new balance point with the 8856 MOI of the DLL+ head and creates the most stable over- Long Legs+ features 17 individual pieces, meticulously all putter TaylorMade has ever created. engineered to create the highest-performing, most stable Crafted incorporating feedback from Taylor- face-balanced putter in the TaylorMade lineup. Made Tour Professionals, the new design of the Another feature found on the Daddy Long Legs+ putter is DLL+ features updated styling with a sleek TaylorMade’s new deep-milled 6061 13-gram aluminum insert, matte black finish with premium accents inspired by Tour player feedback and engineered to deliver a including a new non-glare tour satin crisp, clean feel off the putter face and a smooth, accurate roll. grey finish and contrasting alignment The rough surface of the insert also softens the sound at impact, lines for enhanced alignment and delivering more auditory feedback preferred by better players. confidence at address. The com- “With Daddy Long Legs+, the stability and performance of our plex construction of the Daddy counterbalance putters have been taken to the next level,” said Clay Long, TaylorMade’s senior director of Product Creation. “We’ve taken one of our most popular putters of all time and added performance features to deliver a remarkably stable putting stroke, which golfers of all abilities can benefit from.” Well, you’ve heard it from the experts. If you need to improve the money-end of your game, now’s the time to check out the Daddy Long Legs + putter. It’s a winner!

38 39 ASIAN GOLF EQUIPMENT FOCUS GMax Irons ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

HIGH-MOI DESIGN

COR-EYE TECHNOLOGY

he new GMax iron introduces It’s that time of the year when we’ve learnt COR-Eye Technology, a revolution- ary design that increases flexing to expect something new, revolutionary across the entire face for faster and exciting from PING. This time last year, ball speeds that produce unprec- edented distance and forgiveness. the golf world was abuzz over the launch of TThe new i-iron, PING’s first model to utilize 431 stainless steel, is a softer players-style head that a product that has gone on to establish itself offers workability and ball-flight control with both as a top performing club and a best-sell- the forgiveness to ensure accuracy and consis- tency. Both new models are available with the er and that club was the epic G30 “Turbulator”. PING CFS Distance shaft. Golfers can also choose In keeping with this tradition, PING has done one of four popular after-market shafts with no upcharge. it again – the Phoenix-based manufacturer has “Our commitment to engineering without blasted out of the gates with two new innovative sacrifice continues to produce measurable performance benefits across our entire product PYVUTVKLSZ[OH[WYVTPZLZPNUPÄJHU[WLYMVYTHUJL line,” said John A. Solheim, PING’s chairman and chief executive officer. “For example, COR-Eye gains made possible by the company’s advanced Technology in the GMax iron provides the rare engineering know-how. Besides the new irons, combination of distance with control, giving you significantly more ball speed for shots that PING has also expanded its popular Glide wedge fly farther and land softly. The i-iron is a players- and Cadence TR putter families. style design that appeals to golfers of all skill levels because of its all-around performance. It

40 41 ASIAN GOLF EQUIPMENT FOCUS GMax Irons

The i-iron is a play- ers-style design that appeals to golfers of all skill A GOLF Battle FIT FOR ONLY levels because of its all- around performance. It has a great look and provides workability, trajectory control and just the right amount of THE BEST! forgiveness. It’s already in the We knew that this headline bags of several of our tour would grab your attention! professionals.” – John A. Solheim

has a great look and provides workability, trajectory control and just the right amount of forgiveness. It’s already in the bags of several of our tour professionals,” Solheim added. PING’s new Glide ES (Eye Sole) wedge combines the tech- nology of the original Eye2 sand wedge, including the tapered STEP 2: hosel and scooped sole, with the high-performance features of STEP 1: STEP 3: the Glide design to add another versatile choice for improved REGISTER AS TWO-MAN TEAM 144 SLOTS play from bunkers and around the green. It joins the Glide standard sole (SS), thin sole (TS), and wide sole (WS), creating DELEGATES FROM EACH CLUB AVAILABLE First Come First Serve Basis 16 loft and sole combinations to suit a player’s swing and most common turf conditions. Commenting on the new Glide wedges, Solheim said, “Glide wedges had immediate tour validation with a win by Bubba Watson early in the season and since then, they’ve been used to win several times. The ES sole adds even more versatility to Finally club managers get to play and compete in a winning 27-hole golf course in the Glide wedge line by incorporating the proven technology tournament all their own. Singapore that has played host to a of the original Eye2 sand wedge, which is still in use today and variety of golf tournaments including known for being one of the highest-performing sand wedges ever designed.” The Asia Pacific Golf Group in conjunction with the staging the Asian Tour. The Cadence TR putter series grows stronger with the addi- of the 2015 Asia Pacific Golf Summit will be organizing the tion of the Craz-e-r and Ketsch Mid. The Craz-e-r, an evolution Inaugural Asia-Pacific Inter-Club Challenge Tournament. There is no entry fee to participate in of the highly successful Craz-E design, is a high-MOI model It will be played with two-man teams drawn from clubs this tournament. To qualify, players need to register as featuring a sightline that extends from the top to the back of the putter for improved alignment. “The two new Cadence within the Asia Pacific footprint for the coveted Le Van delegates to attend the Summit and there are 144 slots TR models bring golfers proven designs with some exciting Kiem Inter-Club Trophy. available. advancements. When we introduced the Craz-E in 2003, it quickly became a top-selling alignment-style model due to its shape and optics. In the Craz-e-r, we’ve added a new sightline This tournament is all about good, clean fun and more Entry will be on a first come first served basis and a that makes alignment even easier. The Ketsch Mid provides the importantly, it is about networking. two-man team from each club can register on-line through benefits of the original Ketsch in a smaller head size, Solhiem APGS official website at www.golfconference.org or explained. All the new PING models will be tested and reviewed in the The tournament will be run on October 14. email Alice Ho at alice@asiapacificgolfgroup.com or coming issues of Asian Golf. The venue will be the Orchid Country Club, an award- call +65 63232800 for more details.

42 43 ASIAN GOLF GAME IMPROVEMENT New Technology ISSUE 179 AUGUSTAUGUST 2015201 5

>LSSP[»ZHZZPTWSLHZ[OH[;OLNVSÄUNNVKZ WANT TO ENJOY YOUR GOLF ^V\SKOH]LUL]LYZLLU[OPZJVTPUNPUHTPSSPVU `LHYZ)\[[LJOUVSVN`[VKH`HUK[OLJYHJRPUN WHJLH[^OPJOP[PZL]VS]PUNHUKJOHUNPUNPZ THRPUN]PY[\HSS`L]LY`[OPUN[OH[^LKVH[V[HSS` – THEN STRAP ON A PIQ! KPɈLYLU[L_WLYPLUJL,SLJ[YPJJHYZ[OH[KYP]L is the latest We dropped in on the company’s chief viewfinder on a handheld device or pulling entrant to the executive officer, Cedric Mangaud, the co- a smartphone out of one’s pocket, the yard- [OLTZLS]LZ¶[OHURZ[V.VVNSLTHWZ3PNO[Z wearable golf founder of PIQ to find out more and this is age is shown on a LED display on the back V\[MHJ[VYPLZ^OLYLYVIV[Z^VYR)VK` market which what he had to say: “We realized it was time of the golfer’s glove. PIQ incidentally is to inject new innovation into the game of Can you use this sexy device anywhere WHY[ZYLWYVK\JLK[OYV\NO+WYPU[PUNHUK[PU` a fast growing trend. Asian Golf got wind of golf, and the PIQ device makes the game in the world? Well, according to PIQ, there this product and decided to check it out. more enjoyable and offers new ways of im- is a database of over 35,000 golf courses NHKNL[Z[OH[`V\^LHY[VOLSWWSH`HIL[[LY Put simply, PIQ is claimed to be the first proving the golfer’s experience during and across the globe which means to say that YV\UKVMNVSM:V^OH[»Z[OPZSP[[SLWYVK\J[VM wearable golf device. According to its devel- after his round, ultimately making the game golfers can have accurate distances virtually oper, it provides golfers with more instant more exciting.” anywhere on the planet! The app automati- YVJRL[ZJPLUJL&0[»ZJHSSLKH708HUKP[»ZX\P[L data than ever before. Manguad continued, “With a partner cally detects the course and then displays HMHZJPUH[PUNSP[[SLNHTLJOHUNLY So how does it work? Well, in partner- like Mobitee, the leader in golf apps and hole-by-hole yardages based on the golfer’s ship with golf app developer, Mobitee, the software, we were able to develop the very GPS location. Now how cool is that! “We lightweight PIQ golf device attaches to the best wearable sensor technology, con- wanted the user to experience our Mo- golfer’s glove and can display yardage to nectivity and software that dramatically bitee app without having to take their the green while transmitting swing metrics, improves the golfer’s experience during and smartphones out of their pocket,” said Stan shot tracking and specific club data onto after his round, ultimately making the game Chapus, Mobitee CEO. “Now they are able to the golfer’s smartphone. The device repre- more exciting.” quickly view precise yardages with a glance sents a wearable range-finder, shot-tracker Asian Golf discovered that the PIQ at their hand using the PIQ golf sensor.” and swing-analyzer. Now, that’s some cool sensor provides instant, easy to read yard- Data is captured from every club that device that every golfer must have – right? age to the front, centre and back of the the golfer uses during his or her round Let’s check it out further. green. Instead of having to look through a through the use of near-field communica-

44 45 ASIAN GOLF GAME IMPROVEMENT New Technology LONG THANH GOLF RESORT, HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM NOVEMBER 1 & 2, 2015

We realized it was time to inject new innovation into the game of golf, and the PIQ device makes the game more enjoyable and offers new Come and Be Part of the Region’s Only Total Family Golf Event ... ways of improving the golfer’s ex- The 2015 Asia Pacific Father and Son Golf Tournament! perience during and after his round, ultimately making the game Asia Pacific Father and Son Golf Tournament is back The tournament is open to any combination of family more exciting.” again. Fathers and sons or direct related members of a members – father, daughter, uncle/aunty and nephew/niece. – Cedric Mangaud family will do battle to see who emerges as the best of This arrangement provides for a wider family involvement the best in the region. and participation. highlights the golfer’s best moments of the round including longest drive, best This prestigious tournament will be staged on November The winning team will walk away with the Asia Pacific swing, top score and other highlights 1 & 2, 2015 and the host venue is the award winning Father and Son Trophy presented by Vietnamese tion (NFC) sensor tags that are inserted that can be shared via social media and Long Thanh Golf Resort in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. philanthropist Le Van Kiem. onto the end of each grip. Fifteen NFC text messaging. sensor tags are labelled specifically for In addition to a range-finder, score- each club in a standard set and an ad- keeper and shot-tracker, PIQ captures ditional three customizable sensor tags data of the player’s swing including Entry fee is set at US$450 per player and this will include are also included for a total of 18. With a swing tempo, club head speed, and the tap of the sensor tag to the golf device swing path. That information is then „ Daily two-way transfer from the Sheraton Saigon Hotel to the golf course. For any enquiries, on the player’s glove before every shot, displayed in a 3-D swing analysis on the „ Lunch, refreshment and dinner on both days. the shot-tracking and distance data is smartphone. By integrating the latest please contact Alice Ho: then recorded onto the Mobitee app. sensor technologies along with NFC tags, „ Prizes and goodie bags. [email protected] That real-time data is instantly viewable Bluetooth Low Energy and micro-pro- „ One practice round on October 31. or call +65-63232800 on the smartphone or can be analyzed cessing technology, PIQ incorporates 13 afterwards. axis points and measures performance Mobitee and PIQ track all shots and metrics such as velocity, height, airtime, DOWNLOAD PDF – RULES & REGULATIONS: ONLINE Registration is open at: record yardages to give the golfer the G-force, amplitude, trajectory and others. ability to analyze their distances with Now, what are you waiting for? Go http://tinyurl.com/fsgt-rr2015 http://tinyurl.com/fsgt2015 each club providing helpful averages get yourself a PIQ and pick up your over time for future club selection. PIQ game!! The Father and Son Tournament is designed to promote greater family involvement in golf and 46 47 ASIAN GOLF clubs are encouraged to enter club teams to participate in what promises to be a fun tournament! EQUIPMENT FOCUS Bazooka 460 Black Driver ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

The little golf company from Batavia, Chicago is back and solid club. It is paired with premium, ultra-light shafts ranging in weight from 50 in the news. Tour Edge, globally renowned for its high- grams to 57 grams depending on flex and is available in the following specifications - performing drivers, woods and irons has brought back right hand in 9.5° (stiff), 10.5° (senior, regular, its iconic Bazooka driver. stiff), and 12° (ladies, senior, regular). In conjunction with the launch of the Bazooka driver, Tour Edge has also launched he latest which was just zooka driver and Tour Edge immediately and the Bazooka 1 Out Plus wedge, which is a launched in late July is the since then, have been keeping the company must-have club to get out of trouble in the Bazooka 460 Black driver. In well positioned on our radar. sand. This wedge is engineered specifically for announcing the new arrival, The all new Bazooka Black comes armed hitting out of greenside bunkers, and is said to founder and president of Tour with a 460cc titanium-powered head that is instill pro-like confidence for the “one shot and Edge, David Glod said, “The reported to deliver distance and playability you’re out of the sand” routine. newT Bazooka is designed to deliver high- off the tee that rivals the performance of The Bazooka 1 Out Plus wedge features a performance at a price point missing in drivers over twice its price. A rear fixed sole very popular and effective new trend in short today’s current marketplace.” weight creates a deep centre of gravity to game equipment, which is counter-balanced Tour Edge has built its strong reputation help players of all abilities easily launch the grips. Usually found in longer putters, Tour based on its focus to fill gaps in the equip- ball down the fairway. The Bazooka 460 Edge engineers successfully paired the ment business, and the Bazooka Black is Black driver features a black PVD finish and counter-balance grip with the heavier head a driver aimed at meeting the needs of play- ‘camo’ design highlights, combining style for maximum performance. The heavy sole ers who want new clubs that offer premium with power. puts weight below the ball ensuring that quality at an affordable price. Like the GeoMax driver back in 2007, all players can get out of the most difficult Asian Golf which wrote about the earlier the Bazooka Black is a beautifully designed bunkers in one swing. The super-wide, dual- models of the Bazooka driver flange sole design features 11 (GeoMax) back in 2007 recalls The new Bazooka degrees of bounce allowing that back then, it was not fash- the wedge to ‘glide’ through ionable to choose a club without is designed to the sand without digging in. a major brand presence espe- Tour Edge Bazooka 1 cially on the professional tours. deliver high-perfor- Out Plus wedge is available When we tested it, we discov- mance at a price point right hand only, loft 56, lie 64, ered that the early generation bounce 11, shaft length 32.25”, Bazooka driver just bombed it in missing in today’s current steel wedge flex shaft and terms of distance and accuracy. Premium Bazooka graphite We were sold on both the Ba- marketplace.” – David Glod shaft.

48 49 ASIAN GOLF FASHION TRENDS Footjoy emPOWER ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

Remember the days when women golfers had virtually no choice in golf shoes? The range available was lim- ited (especially in most parts of Asia), and the models tended to look no dif- ferent to those that guys wore. It was like the shoe models for women were gender neutral.

ne of my biggest concerns since I started playing golf was obtain- ing shoes that looked good,” said Angela Raymond, president of the Asia Pacific Golf Group, the parent of ASIAN GOLF. “The life-saver was ‘‘Owhen MyJoys was launched and this unique service at least gave me the choice to design my own shoes in terms of how they looked as far as colour was concerned,” she added. Well, for the thousands of women who golf in Asia, the days of having to worry about shoes and how to match your foot- wear with your gorgeous apparel have just come to a grinding halt! The world’s number one golf shoe company has busted out of the traditional mould for women’s golf shoes and with one broad sweep of the paint brush, FootJoy has introduced a new range of shoes emblazoned with a stunning array of colours! The sassy new line of progressive golf shoes for women is called emPOWER™. “When we speak with female players during our market research visits, the two most important shoe attributes they request are, almost unanimously, ‘comfort and style,’ said Mike Foley, FootJoy’s director or footwear marketing. “The emPOWER

50 51 ASIAN GOLF FASHION TRENDS Footjoy emPOWER

shoe was made to address those two attributes head on by combining aggres- sive, contemporary styling with innovative underfoot comfort features.” Designed with bold athletic styling, emPOWER provides a comfortable, eye- catching, lightweight spikeless footwear option that performs. EmPOWER’s distinctive look begins with a BreathEasy™ sports mesh upper. The colour-splashed upper delivers premium breathability, keeping the foot cool throughout the day, while still providing one-year waterproof protection. The emPOWER line is all about comfort and style that combine aggressive, con- temporary styling with innovative underfoot comfort features. From a performance perspective, MaxGrip™ traction pods are integrated into the outsole and provide the additional traction to make confident swings throughout the round. “As with all women’s shoes in the FJ line, emPower was created specifi- Low Exceptional Shade & Drought Tolerance cally to deliver comfortable performance,” explained Timothy Yoong, 5 FootJoy’s Southeast Asia brand manager. The new line for women The Superior has been developed on the women’s Power Last, and it offers a 5Fine-Bladed with Vertical Leaf Posture rounded, athletic toe character, generous fit across the forefoot with a slightly narrow heel. A new, soft underfoot foam provides 5Vigorous Root, Stolon & Rhizome Production EveryStep™ comfort and a massaging footbed ensures comfort Fine Textured throughout the round. The emPower shoes come with a host of features and benefits 5Low Cost Maintenance Turfgrass which include: „ BreathEasy sports mesh uppers for cool comfort throughout a Zoysia Grass round of golf. 5Available Only Through Licensed Providers „ MaxGrip traction pods ensure a slip free round. „ A soft foam outsole for EveryStep comfort. „ The massaging footbed provides an invigorating gentle massage throughout the day. „ One year waterproof warranty.

Now, how about colours? Would you believe that emPower comes in a spectrum of four exciting colours which include Lime Green + Light Blue, Orange + Yellow, Gray + Pink and Navy + Plum (BOA). The shoes are now available at stores region-wide. Time to look cool on the golf course ladies!

Amazing Playability & Ball Lie s Salt Tolerant s AAlmostlmost ZeZeroro IInsectnsect & DiDiseasesease ProblemsProbllems ((NoNNo CChemicals)hhemiicalls) Low Maintenance such as Less Mowing s Up to 75% Less Fertilizer & Water Requirements! One of my biggest concerns since I started playing To Be Used on the 2016 Olympics Course in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil s Great Colour & Striping Ability golf was obtaining shoes that looked good,” said Can Selectively Control Weeds with a Variety of Herbicides sLow Inputs of Mowing/Fuel, Fertilizer, Angela Raymond, president of the Asia Pacific Golf Group, Chemicals & Water = Better Bottom Line the parent of ASIAN GOLF. “The life-saver was when MyJoys was launched and this unique service at least gave me the choice to design my own shoes in terms of how they looked as far as Available from Thai International Turf Farms & Sports Turf Solutions colour was concerned.” – Angela Raymond [email protected] | www.sportsturfsolutions.com Tel: +66-25403180 Fax: +66-25403181 52 53 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE APGS 2015 ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

In any business, access to timely and reliable market research is essential. Without any market PU[LSSPNLUJLWLUL[YH[PUNHTHYRL[LɈLJ[P]LS`^V\SK ILSPRL^HSRPUN[OYV\NOHTPULÄLSK;OLNVSMTHYRL[PU (ZPHOHZILLUVULZ\JOTHYRL[^OLYLSP[[SLVYUVZ`UKPJH[LK PUK\Z[Y`^PKLYLZLHYJOOHZILLU\UKLY[HRLUMVYKLJHKLZ 7LYOHWZ1HWHUHUK2VYLHZOV\SKILL_JS\KLKPU[OPZYL]PL^ ILJH\ZLIV[O[OLZLTHYRL[ZLZWLJPHSS`1HWHUOH]L[OLPYYLZWLJ[P]L THYRL[Z^LSSTVUP[VYLK.P]LU[OPZZ[H[LVMHɈHPYZ[OLZVVU[VIL YLSLHZLK(ZPHU.VSM;YLUKZHUK7YVÄSLZ:\Y]L`JVUK\J[LKI`[OL(ZPH 7HJPÄJ.VSM.YV\W[OLW\ISPZOLYVM(:0(5.63-HUK(ZPHU*S\I)\ZPULZZ HUK[OL*S\I4HUHNLYZ(ZZVJPH[PVUVM(ZPH^PSSILHUOPZ[VYPJTPSLZ[VUL;OL Z\Y]L`JVUK\J[LKVUSPULOHZILLUPU[OLÄLSKMVY[OYLLTVU[OZHUKWYLSPTPUHY` ÄUKPUNZWYV]PKLHUL_JLSSLU[HUKYL]LHSPUNPUZPNO[[V[OLTHYRL[WSHJLHZP[YLSH[LZ[V IV[OKLTVNYHWOPJHUKWZ`JOVNYHWOPJPUMVYTH[PVU

he decision to embark on the their life-styles. This research project has a and Profiles Survey has been very extensive ambitious Asian Golf Trends very wide-ranging scope in terms of data and it has involved a total communications and Profiles Survey took collected and it is the first such survey of its package that has included advertising, months in the making. What kind undertaken in the region. web-site promotions and regular EDMs,” finally tipped the decision Since the survey was launched, more revealed Sufian Saiful, technical director of to proceed was the absolute than 1,000 respondents have completed the project. absenceT of a body of reliable information the questionnaire on-line and as the weeks He explained that the questionnaire was relating to the Asian marketplace relating go by, more responses continue to flow in. structured to ensure that anyone respond- to personal information about golfers and “The promotion of the Asian Golf Trends ing to the survey would not be required to

54 55 ASIAN GOLF SPECIAL FEATURE APGS 2015

recreational and leisure activities. When the findings are finally analysed, “While we may know this to be a trend it is hoped that the golf industry would elsewhere, it is good to have reliable sta- tistics to now look at what younger people be able to obtain information about golfers as want and to endeavour to explore how golf club/course operators can skew their it relates to age, gender, frequency of play, marketing positioning to attract younger demographics,” Sebastian pointed out. equipment preference and expenditure on On the psychographic side of the sur- equipment, apparel and accessories.” vey, preliminary findings reveal and confirm that golfers have a more upscale life-style which manifests itself through home own- spend too much time completing it. “We de- and according to Mike Sebastian, chief ership, the possession of valuable items like signed the survey in a manner where each executive officer of the Asia Pacific Golf cars and watches together with travel and question comes with multiple response Group, “Data on age groups does reveal that entertaining habits. “Again, while it is ac- options and all that a respondent has to do the most active rate of participation in golf knowledged that golfers belong to a higher is tick off the box that applies to him – it’s as across the geography covered by the survey quintile of consumers, having specific easy as that,” he said. falls into the 40 to 50 year old age group research relating to their purchasing and When the findings are finally analysed, which falls into the Generation X category, consumption habits just helps to confirm it is hoped that the golf industry would be the group that comes after the baby boom- that they make up a very valuable target able to obtain information about golfers as ers.” group for organizations who want to reach it relates to age, gender, frequency of play, However, samplings drawn from respon- out to them,” said Sebastian. equipment preference and expenditure dents who belong to the younger age brack- The complete findings of the Asian Golf on equipment, apparel and accessories. ets, namely Generation Y and the Millennials Trends and Profiles Survey will be published On the psychographic level, there will be reveal that golf’s appeal is not as penetrat- in late September and will be launched information available on personality, values, ing. This has not come as a surprise given the at the 2015 Asia Pacific Golf Summit to be opinions, attitudes, interests, and lifestyles. fact that it is in line with global trends where held in Singapore on October 14-15. The Some preliminary modellings of the younger groups are showing a preference published report will be available on sale data already indicate very interesting trends for more extreme and less time consuming after its official launch.

56 57 ASIAN GOLF GAME IMPROVEMENT ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

uess what golfers? It’s time 3. Now, place the ball (as seen in the for you to use duct tape to picture) adjacent to the area that the improve your golf swing and duct tape forms the “T”. This gives the to understand the impor- golfer a good reference point to be set tance of a proper set-up. Yes, up “square” to the target. ductG tape can really improve your golf swing! 4. Now focus on making a good back- Here’s a drill that you can practice. swing and follow-through. Most of the time, I’ve seen amateur golfers Again, this is one of my favorite drills practicing and focusing only on hitting the for players because it returns back to basics ball as far as they can on the driving range. and utilises the practice time in the right It’s always important to work on the basic fun- way. So often, I ‘ve seen golfers mishit a damentals when you have time to. With that shot because they were lined up incorrectly said, I suggest to students the “T” drill when from the start. practicing at the driving range so that they The “T” drill using duct tape can fix your can improve their alignment. Here’s the drill: alignment and improve upon other areas 1. Take duct tape and place a one-foot such as a good set-up! piece perpendicular to the target line. Invest in some duct tape – not only will it help you fix your golf swing, it will also 2. Take another one-foot piece of duct come in handy around the house to help fix tape and place it on the target line a whole load of problems! creating a “T” like shape. ´,I\RXFDQ·WÀ[LWZLWKGXFWWDSHWKHQLW·VQRWZRUWKÀ[LQJµ ABOUT TONY MEECHAI I hope most golfers reading this can relate to the quote above. Duct tape is a miracle 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 tape used by many around the world. It’s a wide cloth adhesive tape originally designed 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 for sealing joints in heating or air-conditioning ducts. Growing up in a small town in the Schools and Springfield Royal Country Club as well as presenting tips on numerous region-wide golf television shows. Recently, eh founded the Tony Meechai Golf Academy that combines a curriculum including academics and golf education for aspiring Tour professionals. Programmes <:(0»]L^P[ULZZLKT`KHKÄ_PUNZVTLSLHRZQ\Z[I`\ZPUNK\J[[HWL@LZTVZ[VM[OL are in conjunction with international institutions throughout the world. For further information, please visit www.tmggroupasia.com or email to [email protected] QVIZ^V\SKYLX\PYLTHU`^YHWZVMK\J[[HWLHUK[OLSLHRUVYTHSS`KPZHWWLHYZ www.tmggroupasia.com

58 59 ASIAN GOLF GAME IMPROVEMENT Pro Tour Golf College ISSUE 179 AUGUST 2015

In over 40 years of playing, coaching and generally being around golf there’s one thing David and I are becoming quite concerned about.

.VSMPZILJVTPUNHTVYLJVTWSPJH[LKHUKKPɉJ\S[ game to learn and play.

The vast bulk of elite amateur golfers and professional golfers we talk to at Pro Tour Golf College are struggling to learn and make progress playing this great game to even a satisfactory level.

David Milne (left) and Lawrie Montague (right).

t doesn’t seem to matter how much “Learning is the act of acquiring new, Maybe it’s time for you to try a different As they move through their grading’s Martial Arts has been taught throughout money they have spent on equip- or modifying and reinforcing, existing way of learning to make the progress you truly (coloured belts in most cases) they are taught Asia this way successfully for many hundreds Learning is the ment, or whether they’ve taken knowledge, behaviours, skills, values, or want, rather than continuing to follow the humility by losing their ego which is seen as of years with literally millions of people act of acquir- lessons from a top 100 teacher or preferences and may involve synthesizing Western learning path you are currently on? normal and natural. They also learn total ac- learning, and any one following this learning celebrity instructor, the alarming different types of information. ceptance of their outcomes good or bad. path regardless of the style learned acquires ing new, or modifying Ifact is that many of these serious amateur The ability to learn is possessed by What You Can Learn from They are also encouraged to allow their their skills this way. golfers simply aren’t improving their game humans, animals and some machines. Eastern Martial Arts Training learning to naturally evolve rather than try- and reinforcing, exist- anywhere near the level they want. Progress over time tends to follow learn- Marital arts teach respect, discipline, hard ing to force it to happen. This is seen as the Sorry But the Western Way of ing knowledge, be- So what do we think the main reason for ing curves. work, sacrifice and humility. Students are best way to learn and improve skills. Learning May Not Be the Best These simple and humble learning val- this is? For the most part we believe it’s how Learning is not compulsory; it is contex- never taught about the concept of failure as in Way for You haviours, skills, val- they are attempting to learn to improve at tual. It does not happen all at once, but builds they are in the West, instead they are taught ues and their Chinese philosophical founda- tion originate mostly from Chan Buddhism, Sadly in the West where these ancient values golf; actually to be more accurate, it’s how upon and is shaped by previous knowledge. that rather than failing you have simply not ues, or preferences Taoism, Legalism and Confucianism. have been shared and taught successfully they are learning what NOT TO learn in golf. To that end, learning may be viewed as learned enough as yet. (Read that again) and may involve syn- That’s right, nearly all these golfers are a process, rather than a collection of factual Eastern learning is seen more as a cyclic learning how NOT TO have lower scores; or and procedural knowledge. development where the pursuit of improve- thesizing different how NOT TO enjoy the game even more; or Learning produces changes in the ment is a never ending journey along a path- how NOT TO keep making steady progress; organism and the changes produced are way that has no limits. In contrast Western types of information.” or how NOT TO make it more simpler rather relatively permanent.” (Source: http:// learning is seen as linear development where than complex, and I could go on, but I think en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learning) improvement has a goal (Or multiple goals) for more than 50 years they are now under you get the idea. So all these fine golfers are learning as and development stops or stalls when a goal threat with the arrival of the UFC and MMA, Yes most of these fine golfers we’ve per the definition above, but what we find is reached. where many fighters are in the martial arts observed seem to be great at learning how too often is that they seem to be learning This is an important distinction to under- just for personal gain (money, fame, self- NOT TO get what they want from golf. how NOT to get what they want from golf. stand. promotion, etc.) So do these golfers have a learning prob- The simple fact is that you ARE learning; At every level in Martial Arts students learn They’re not so much traditional, philo- lem? Nope, they are all learning perfectly. it’s just that you are probably learning how how to learn and acquire basic movement skills sophically influenced martial artists as they Let’s take a look at the definition of to get what you don’t want from golf, most through consistent application of the same are technicians bent on winning fights. learning from Wikipedia and move forward of the time...But don’t despair, because movements which are practiced until they Source: http://www.blackbeltmag.com/cat- from there. there is another way... move from the “how to mind” to the “no mind.” egory/chinese-martial-arts/

60 61 ASIAN GOLF GAME IMPROVEMENT Pro Tour Golf College

students at Pro Tour Golf College to simplify their golf swing and make progress that we call the “get back to simple” strategy. CHANGE AGENT If you want to learn golf more effectively with a learning strategy based more on how basic Martial Arts techniques are taught then you might want to use this strategy which essentially breaks your whole stroke down into smaller and more manageable parts or chunks. Extraordinaire In other words your aim is to make ANDY STANGENBERG your complicated 7 part golf swing much simpler to learn and develop by reducing it down to just 1 part. So rather than trying to break your golf swing down into a multitude of parts and Andy Stangenberg is not just another speaker. Andy entertains and keeps you at the edge then attempt to fit them back together He is a special performer who transcends all of your seat throughout a session, he also perfectly into a better whole (Western style), of the known norms and boundaries of public imparts knowledge that will help make In the West (And it is starting to make its Is Old Time Golf speaking. He is often described as a speaker a definite difference to anybody who way into the East) we are starting to see a Instruction Still real change in the way golf is being taught Relevant? from "another planet" and this is attributable to watches and listens to him. where what essentially is a simple game to learn and play, is now becoming a compli- It is no surprise that the the fact that he does not conform to universally "Attending an Andy Stangenberg cated game to learn and play well. most popular golf instruc- acceptable standard procedures. The thing to keep in mind is that if you tion book today (by a session is like watching something long way) is more than look back over the past 100 years it shows us He is an un-boxed thinker and passionate cataclysmic happening – he that many golfers learned how to play golf 50 years old. Ben Hogan’s successfully with much simpler approaches Book “Five Lessons: The about all aspects of service and its delivery; is change in motion!" said Bill to learning and developing all aspects of Modern Fundamentals of he is intense when he talks about leadership Sanderson, a noted international their game from the tee to the green. Golf” published in 1957 gives the golfer a very clear and performance; and he is committed business coach. Is Science and Technology Making pathway for learning the full swing from be- you develop your swing more like they do in to identifying and bringing out the best in ginning to end and has helped many golfers Martial Arts by visualizing the whole of your Golf Harder to Play or Easier? everyone he touches. Andy connects and to learn and enjoy the game. stroke as you want it to be and then you Since the arrival of sports scientists onto The Martial Arts students’ pathway is reduce your golf stroke down to just one engages with his audience in a very interactive the golf scene around 25 to 30 years ago, from one step (Basic movement) to another or possibly two parts that you practice and coupled more recently with technology and personal manner and this is what sets him gathering knowledge and skill along the continually develop with your instructor. such as Trackman and Flightscope, a lot of way, but interestingly they don’t necessarily At first this will seem difficult to do apart as a star performer. younger golf teachers and instructors are know what the next step in the process is. because you will feel like you need more being influenced to teach golfers more And that’s OK for them. parts in your model, so you will struggle by numbers and statistics generated from "I have seen many top speakers in my time When you think of Western golf instruc- initially to get you get your head around this these machines than more traditional ways. but never have I witnessed so much energy, tion style do you think the student is being new simple swing development strategy, This is apparently based around West- taught in a similar way to the way the but hang in there with it because you will drive and innovative thinking to match the ern scientific ideology that a more accurate, Martial Arts student is taught? quickly see the value in this simple cyclic rigorous and scientific approach to teaching Stangenberg package. This guy will drag you I think you’ll agree that what’s more like- learning strategy and how it can help you to golf is the correct way (and some would ly to be seen in the West quite often is golf make consistent progress with your game. through all the emotions and senses - he will say the only way) of interpreting the basic And you can do the same thing for any movements of a golfers swing. instruction that delivers a more fragmented make you laugh, cry and celebrate - all in one of your golf skills from putting to the full And look there’s no doubt that some of and disorganized amalgamation of parts swing. Just break it down and precisely sitting. This is the magic of Andy Stangenberg," the data generated from these machines that many golfers can’t make much sense of practice your movements with the goal of is how noted international speaker Gregg can be helpful, especially if it interpreted in as to how the parts all fit together. achieving the “no mind” level. a useful way by golf instructors. At least this is what we have been Patterson describes Andy.Andy Make your golf stroke as simple as you But the question that you might need advised is the experience of many elite can by simplifying what you do, and under- to ask yourself is does this technology make amateur and professional golfers we have stand that you are never trying to perfect you better? And is this technology really talked to and also worked with--especially your golf stroke--you are simply learning and necessary? Does it make it easier for you to over the past few years. developing basic movements that make your learn to play better? golf swing stronger and more reliable with no Some would definitely say yes, whilst The Get Back to Simple Learning Strategy end in sight for finishing the work. others would beg to differ. Be 'Touched' by Andy Stangenberg Ultimately you need to decide which way We have a very simple Eastern style learn- Lawrie Montague and David Milne – Pro Tour Golf you will go. ing strategy that we have used to help our College (The Professional Golf Tour Training College) A Realty And Business Coach Like No Other!

62 63 ASIAN GOLF CMAA Asia Pacific Pte Ltd & Q-Principle Email: Andy Stangenberg [email protected] or Call: +65-6323 2800; Mobile: +65-8339 8352. ASIA’S BEST TO BE HONOURED CONSISTENTLY VOTED AS

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ASIAN GOLF ISSUE 180

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