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HIDEKI MATSUYAMADANIEL BERGERJASON DAYRORY MCILROYANIRBAN LAHIRILYDIA KORICKY FOWLERJORDAN SPIETHPATRICK REEDBROOKS KOEPKA

COVER STORY The Future Of GolfRORY MCILROYISSUE 175 APRIL 2015RICKIE FOWLER■ Rory McIlroy (no surprise)With the Presidents Cup coming up later this year, Nick Price, the Internationalteam captain is said to be watching Lahiri with some intense inter-■ Jason Day■ Patrick Reedest. If Price picks him for the team, Lahiri will become the first Indian player to■ Ricky Fowlercompete in the biennial event in South Korea. Commenting on Lahiri during the■ Jordan Spiethrecent WGC Cadillac Championship, Price said, “Looks like he can make a big putt■ Hideki Matsuyamaon a big occasion …. he’s very calm, collected, and I think he’s going to be an asset■ Brooks Koepkato our team.”■ Daniel BergerLahiri’s rise to the top has even resulted in the European Tour naming him as theHowever, we hasten to add thatgolfer of the month for February 2015. In a statement, the tour said, “Anirban Lahirino one should expect to see the sorthas been named The European Tour Race to Dubai Golfer of the Month following theof strangle-hold dominance that Tigerincredible run of form that saw the 27 year old Indian win the Maybank Malaysianhad during his reign. The aforementionedyoungsters will share mo-“Three months ago Lahiri was battling to win a place on The European Tour at theOpen and the Hero Indian Open in the space of three weeks.” It went on to add,ments of glory and expect to see moreQualifying School Final Stage, but his extraordinary February exploits have catapultedhim to 34th place on the Official World Golf Ranking and guaranteedyoungsters come forth to challenge fortop honours. This will be the changinghim a place at The Masterslandscape on the professional tours andTournament.”youth with prevail always.So, with Lahiri leadinga young brigade ofIt is worth noting also that last year,more than 50 percent of the winners ontop stars, it is hopedthe PGA Tour were under 30 years of age andthat this will inspirethis trend will no doubt continue in 2015 andmore young Asiansbeyond.to aspire to shoot forHow about the Asian professional golf scene?the stars and aim fortop honours at theWell, with the exception of veteran Thai superstarhighest level of theThongchai Jaidee who is well over 40 years, the restgame of golf.of the field in the Top Ten Order of Merit are in their 30’s.The current top dog on this ranking is India’s Anirban Lahiriwho is 27 years old and is on a big winning streak at themoment.Asian Golf first met Lahiri about four years ago and we wereimpressed with what we saw then. We recognized the youngIndian as being the total golf package. He had a good game thatshowed tremendous promise. He had the right breeding that helped him displayexcellent manners, good personality and he possessed the flair necessaryto be an international star.Fast forward to 2015, and Lahiri is now poised to be the continent’s big superstar. As the No. 1 player on the Asian Tour, he has already notched up fourvictories in the past 11 months, including the Malaysian and Indian Opens. Heis currently ranked 35th in the world, and this places him two spots ahead ofthe 2013 Fedex Cup winner Brandt Snedeker who was once ranked 4th on theOfficial World Golf Rankings.Why do we think that Lahiri is going to be Asia’s flag-bearer on the globalgolf scene? The answer is simple. He has an incredibly solid game and heis very marketable. Let’s not forget also that he is world class – he is rankedabove Tiger Woods, Louis Oosthuizen, Jason Dufner and Webb Simpson whichsays a lot for the young Indian professional.The son of an Indian military doctor, Lahiri took up the game when he was 8years old. He is following in the footsteps first blazed open by Jeev Milkha Singhand Arjun Atwal. Both Singh and Atwal were India’s first two big stars who wenton to build solid careers playing on the European and PGA Tours respectively.In a recent report Atwal is reported to have told Lahiri: “You know, we havedone all these things that everyone looks up to. You have the opportunity todo that at 27, 28. We did it at 35, 36. So you’ve got that much more time tooutdo us and outdo yourself.”The report went on to add that Lahiri was moved, and motivated, byAtwal’s words. He said he wanted to create a ripple effect that created greaterparticipation in the game and higher expectations. “I’m getting the opportunitiesat a much younger age than they did, and for me, that is the greatest gift- time,” Lahiri said.JASON DAYPATRICK REEDLYDIA KODANIEL BERGERHIDEKI MATSUYAMAJORDAN SPIETHBROOKS KOEPKA12 13 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUIRE2015 Asian Golf AwardsThe annual Asian Golf Awards poll for 2015 starts onApril 1 and hundreds of golf clubs in the region areexpected to start jostling for top results to score big inwhat is widely regarded as the most prestigious awardsprogramme for the golf club industry in the region.As the longest establishedand most respected awardsprogramme throughout theAsia Pacific, on-line pollingis expected to be frenetic. Ifthe polling last year is anythingto go by, voting for 2015 is expectedto smash the record set last year wheremore than 70,000 votes were cast.The polls for the Asian Golf Awards arenow open on-line and voting can be conductedat http://tinyurl.com/agmawards2015The awards programme is jointly organizedby the Asia Pacific Golf Group (APGG)in conjunction with the Club ManagersAssociation of Asia (CMAA).“This is the second year where APGG, theowner of the programme is collaboratingwith the CMAA and this collaboration is firmtestimony of the high regard and respectthat the club industry in the Asia Pacificaccords the Asian Golf Awards, “said MikeSebastian, chief executive officer of APGGand concurrently president of the CMAA.The voting for thirty-eight categorieswill go on for three months and will closeon June 30. The results of the 2015 pollswill be announced during the Asian GolfAwards Gala Banquet at the 2015 AsiaPacific Golf Summit which will be staged inSingapore. The final date will be announcedin mid-April.“In keeping with tradition, we willhonour and celebrate the awards at agrand gala banquet befitting its status asthe “Oscars” of the Asian golf club and golfindustry and the venue that we have selectedto stage this spectacular show will beThe Asian Golf Awards is the mostprestigious awards in the golfindustry across the Asia Pacific Region. Itbrings honour to the award winningorganization, and it especially encouragesmuch more initiatives to be created toenhance the golf industry’s developments.”14 15 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUIRE2015 Asian Golf AwardsISSUE 175 APRIL 2015BANYAN GOLF CLUB AND RESORT , HUA HINTHAI COUNTRY CLUBBLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUBbefitting of the grand occasion,” said AngelaRaymond, executive director of APGG andthe CMAA.There is no denying the regard andrespect that the Asian Golf Awards enjoysin the Asia Pacific. Perhaps its value andimportance is best summed up by the manuniversally considered as “Mr. Golf Asia”,Dr. Ken Chu, chairman of the Mission HillsGroup.This is how he views the awards: “TheAsian Golf Awards is the most prestigiousawards in the golf industry across the AsiaPacific Region. It brings honour to theaward winning organization, and it especiallyencourages much more initiatives tobe created to enhance the golf industry’sdevelopments.”Another strong proponent of the programmeis John Blanch, general managerof the prestigious Thai Country Club inBangkok who said, “The Asian Golf Awardsare the pre-eminent awards for the golf industryin the region. Having been involvedwith many clubs in many different countriesin the region I know that each one of thoseclubs holds success in these awards aboveall others. At Thai Country Club each awardis cherished as the industry gold standard.”16 17 ASIAN GOLFIt’s the “Oscars” of golfwhere excellence isrecognised within the industry.”– Stacey Walton director of Banyan Golf Club andResort in Hua HinAs interest in the Asian Golf Awards isgetting more global attention, the organisershave decided that the gala awardsbanquet and the results of the 2015 awardsprogramme will be telecast “live” via videostream worldwide.Recognising the importance of theawards programme, Stacey Walton, directorof Banyan Golf Club and Resort in Hua Hin,Thailand said, “It’s the “Oscars” of golf whereexcellence is recognised within the industry.I was applauded by our owners, members,visitors, tour operators, colleagues andteam at Banyan Golf Club when we made abig sweep of the awards last year.”He continued, “The awards are extremelyinspirational for owners and managersto invest in making quality improvements,implementing change by finding new andinnovative ways for a golf club to stand outand be unique. Providing a memorable golfexperience to each member and every visitorwill certainly result in gaining more welldeserved votes!”The nations that will be covered by thisyear’s poll will include Japan, South Korea,Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Philippines,Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia,Myanmar, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Singapore,Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan,Bangladesh and the Middle East.In scope and scale, the Asian GolfAwards is generally considered the biggestprogramme of its kind anywhere in theworld. World renowned golf course designerand architect, Brian Curley, principalof the award-winning firm of Schmidt-CurleyDesign concurs: “The Asian Golf Awardshave been very instrumental in our successand ability to showcase our talents tonew clients and users. With what can be afragmented and difficult exercise to identifymultitude of courses and businesses in alarge and diverse Asian market, the AsianGolf Awards help to identify the cream ofthe crop and give order to the vast arrayof choices made available to the end user.We proudly showcase the awards for ourWe proudly showcase theawards for our accomplishmentsand look forward tomany more in the years to come.”– Brian Curley principal, Schmidt-Curley DesignASIAN GOLF AWARDSEXPANDSThe 2015 Asian Golf Awards is in a growth mode andthis year will witness the addition of new award categories.The total number of categories now stands at fortyfourand the new additions include the following:■ Best Golf Club Experience in Asia Pacific■ Best Managed Golf Club in Asia Pacific■ Best Locker Room/Male or Female in Asia Pacific■ Best Professional Golf Coach in Asia Pacific■ Best Golf Equipment and Services Supplier (Agronomy) in Asia Pacific■ Best Golf Club Equipment and Accessories Supplier in Asia Pacificaccomplishments and look forward to manymore in the years to come.”Harald Elisson, managing director ofthe award winning Black Mountain GolfClub and voted the Best Golf Club GeneralManager in 2014 looks upon the AsianGolf Awards very favourably and this iswhat he thinks about the programme, “Weregard the Asian Golf Awards as the bestand most credible in the region. The factthat they have been in existence for 15years is testament to their importance andstature in the golf industry in Asia Pacific.They provide a benchmark for golf clubsthroughout the region. Winning or beingplaced in one of the categories is not onlya great achievement and honour, butprovides each recipient with great recognitionthat is of considerable benefit to theirbusiness.”The Asian Golf Awards just does notrecognize service standards. It recognizesa myriad of operational aspects of a golfclub and the golf industry. One such area isthe general maintenance of a golf course.Last year, for the first time, the programmerecognized the Best Golf Course Superintendentand the award went to MinachaiSrichanya from Banyan Golf Club and Resortin Hua Hin, Thailand. “I was honoured tobe given this award and I hope that thiswill start a trend where owners pay moreattention to the general state of their golfcourses,” said Srichanya.The next ninety-days will be themeasure of how well golf clubs in Asiafare. Now is the time to rally the support ofclub members and patrons alike to cometogether to vote for their favourites. Pollingwill only be conducted on-line. Kindlyensure that each vote comes fully documentedwith the name of the voter, e-mailand or telephone contact detail which arerequired for verification purposes. Voting isWinning or being placedin one of the categoriesis not only a great achievementand honour, but provides eachrecipient with great recognitionthat is of considerable benefit totheir business.” – Harald Elisson managingdirector, Black Mountain Golf Clubnow open and it’s time to show your supportfor the golf clubs of Asia and the menand women who work so hard at keepingeverything humming like a well-oiledmachine.

SPECIAL FEATURE2015 U.S. Masters PreviewISSUE 175 APRIL 201518 19 ASIAN GOLFHere is a Bernhard Langer statisticthat will surprise some:in the 1985 Masters, over72 holes, the German golfertotaled just a single threeputton the lightening-fast,bent-grass greens of Augusta National. Puttingof that consistency at Augusta is usuallyworth its weight in green wool and brassbuttons, and that week Langer won by twofrom Seve Ballesteros, Curtis Strange and RaymondFloyd. The more senior readers amongyou might be disheartened to be reminded– apologies in advance - that Langer’s firstMasters triumph was now 30 years ago.Langer made a much less remarkabledebut among the towering pines of Augustathree years earlier, in 1982, when the polar oppositeof a putting performance sent the curlyhairedrookie heading the wrong way downMagnolia Lane on the Friday afternoon.“When I first played at Augusta I had 11three-putts in 36 holes,” recalls Langer withsurprising clarity for a 33-year-old statisticyou’d think he would want to forget. “Thatcould have become 22 three-putts if I hadplayed four rounds!”Management of those Augusta greenscan’t be achieved in a crash course.“I had to putt better on those greens,and just as importantly, I had to figure outwhere to hit my second shots into thegreens. I learned that lesson the hardway,” reflects Langer, who puttedwith a conventional blade in 1985,with regular length shaft, but witha cross-handed grip. The combinationcracked Augusta’s code. “Just one

SPECIAL FEATURE20 21 ASIAN GOLF2015 U.S. Masters PreviewI had to putt better on thosegreens, and just as importantly,I had to figure out where to hit my secondshots into the greens. I learnedthat lesson the hard way,” reflectsLanger, who putted with a conventionalblade in 1985, with regular lengthshaft, but with a cross-handed grip.The combination cracked Augusta’scode. “Just one three-puttwas a huge improvement. Iholed out well from six feetand in and that was key.”three-putt was a huge improvement. I holed out wellfrom six feet and in and that was key.”The Masters is famed for its exciting finishes, as theplayers navigate around the most famous back nine ingolf, with Amen Corner its beating heart. Another finalflourish was duly enacted in 1985.“As I came off the ninth I saw that Curtis wasfour shots ahead,” recalls Langer, who partneredBallesteros, with Floyd and Strange behind in thefinal pairing. “I had played the front nine in evenpar but I had lost ground by two shots. So I approachedthe 10th tee thinking I did not care ifit meant I finished 30th, I was going to play asaggressively as possible and go for every flag.”While Strange stalled, Langer accelerated.He targeted the back-right pin position on 12,knocked his ball close and marched off with atwo. More birdies flew in at the 13th, 15th and17th, while Strange found water with his secondshots at both 13 and 15.“I was five under par from the 10th to the17th, but then I bogeyed the last to comeback in 32,” says Langer, 27 years old at thetime, and now 57. “I went from four behind at theturn to two in front in the space of eight holes.”A pair of 68s was the lowest weekend returnin the field, and saw Langer – dressed from top tobottom in pillar-box red – slip his arms into theGreen Jacket. “Someone quipped that I looked like aChristmas tree,” adds Langer. They never?Another statistic you might not know: in 31Masters appearances Langer has played 108 tournamentrounds; more than any other European everto tee up there, and 14th among all Masters golfers(he skipped over Byron Nelson’s 106 last year). Atthe age of 56 last year, he finished 8th. Win or lose,Langer continues to make his mark.Bernhard Langer’s Tour Around Amen CornerAmen Corner’ incorporates holes 11, 12, and13 at Augusta National, which loop theirway around the southernmost end of thecourse. American writer Herbert WarrenWind coined the nickname ‘Amen Corner’in reporting on the 1958 Masters for SportsIllustrated magazine. They became the mostfamous two words he ever wrote.“Amen Corner is a very special place,” saysLanger. “The difficulty is that water comesinto play on every hole. It is a crucial part ofthe golf course, where you could come outone or two under par, but you could alsoblow up and go three or four over.”11 ‘White Dogwood’, par 4,505 yards“The 11th has become such a hard hole,”starts Langer. “Augusta has planted manytrees to the right so it is much more narrow,and lengthened it to 505 yards.“You are also faced with water to theleft of the green and behind it,” continuesLanger. “I have to come into that green witha very long club, and there is often gustingwind to contend with. The wind seems toswitch very often down there.Often you see the flag on 11 blowingfrom left to right, yet 80 yards away you cansee the flag on 12 blowing in the oppositedirection. Then you throw some grass intothe air and it comes back straight into you.There is something weird about the wind atAmen Corner.”12 ‘Golden Bell’, par 3, 155 yards“It is the way the green is angled on the 12ththat makes it such a hard hole,” explainsLanger. “If the green ran straight across fromone side to the other it would not be anissue, but the green is angled from front-leftto back-right, and so is Rae’s Creek. If you pullyour tee shot your ball flies over the green onthe left or if you push the tee shot it will dropinto the water on the right.“Having made both of those mistakesover the years, I started to think JackNicklaus’s advice is the safest strategy: toplay over the bunker [in front of the centralsection of the green], even though that isthe narrowest part of the green. With theswirling winds that is a tough tee shot.”13 ‘Azalea’, par 5, 510 yards“The 13th may be my favourite hole inISSUE 175 APRIL 2015the world,” declares Langer. “It is a risk andreward hole. Ideally you want to hook thetee shot, to hug the left-hand side of thefairway, along by the creek, because thatshortens the hole and gives you a flatterlie. No matter what, the second shot willbe played from a hanging lie [above theright-hander’s feet], which means the ballshould naturally hook. This means the linefor the approach is to the right of the greenand into the creek, and then you must waitfor the ball to turn left into the green. That issomething a lot of players don’t like to do –we don’t like aiming into a hazard – in casethe ball does not hook. If you over-hookthe approach there is more trouble waiting- maybe even an unplayable lie among theazaleas.”Amen Corner is a very special place,”says Langer. “The difficulty is that watercomes into play on every hole. It is a crucialpart of the golf course, where you couldcome out one or two under par, but you couldalso blow up and go three or four over.”

LONG THANH GOLF RESORT, HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAMNOVEMBER 1 & 2, 2015Come and Be Part of the Region’s Only Total Family Golf Event ...The 2015 Asia Pacific Father and Son Golf Tournament!Entry fee is set at US$450 per player and this will include: Daily two-way transfer from the Sheraton Saigon Hotel to the golf course. Lunch, refreshment and dinner on both days. Prizes and goodie bags. One practice round on October 31.The Father and Son Tournament is designed to promote greater family involvement in golf andclubs are encouraged to enter club teams to participate in what promises to be a fun tournament!In Celebration OfFathers And SonsAsia Pacific Father and Son Golf Tournamentis back again. Fathers and sons or directrelated members of a family will do battle tosee who emerges as the best of the best inthe region.The tournament is open to any combinationof family members – father, daughter, uncle/aunty and nephew/niece. This arrangementprovides for a wider family involvement andparticipation.ONLINE Registration is open at:http://tinyurl.com/fsgt2015ORGANISED BY: LONG THANH GOLF RESORTThis prestigious tournament will be staged onNovember 1 & 2, 2015 and the host venue isthe award winning Long Thanh Golf Resort inHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam.The winning team will walk away with theAsia Pacific Father and Son Trophy presentedby Vietnamese philanthropist Le Van Kiem.DOWNLOAD PDF – RULES & REGULATIONS:http://tinyurl.com/fsgt-rr2015For enquiries, please contact Alice Ho atalice@asiapacificgolfgroup.com or call +65-63232800

SPECIAL FEATUREFocus On FootJoyISSUE 175 APRIL 2015STEVE GALE FootJoy’s Vice President for International SalesThe DNA of FootJoy harks back to a rich pedigree based on quality,comfort and excellence in footwear. This is a 158 year old heritageand like an exquisite wine, the company has matured with agespanning three centuries. Today, it ranks as the world’s leadingmanufacturer of golf shoes and golf gloves.24 25 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUREFocus On FootJoyISSUE 175 APRIL 2015Besides a dominant share of the golf shoeand glove markets, FootJoy has branchedout with the launch of its apparel andouterwear range and it has rapidly risento become one of the biggest playersin the golf accessories and apparelbusiness.This is the mark of FootJoy – acompany that is renowned the world over for its neverending quest for excellence in all of its pursuits and thispush to be the best amongst the best manifests itself inthe fact that millions of FootJoy golf shoes, gloves, appareland accessories have been sold and this phenomenaldemand continues to rise globally.As part of its mission statement, FootJoy maintainsthat it is committed to enhancing a golfer’s on-courseexperience through the development of superior golfshoes, gloves, apparel, outerwear, socks and accessories. Thecompany prides itself that its products exceed expectations inall weather and playing conditions through advanced technicalinnovation, performance, and supreme comfort.Call it what you may, FootJoy is all about passion and this is reflectedin everything that the company does. It has kicked off 2015with what is arguably one of its most impressive milestones – theintroduction of the revolutionary HyperFlex golf shoe. Not only is ita product of cutting edge technology, it is also a work of art.The HyperFlex prompted ASIAN GOLF to request for anexclusive interview with the company and we got a chance to sitdown and discuss the company’s exciting products and its futurewith Steve Gale, FootJoy’s Vice President for International Sales.The following are excerpts of the interview:ASIAN GOLF: FootJoy has launched itself into 2015with a major game-changing trend – the launch of therevolutionary HYPERFLEX golf shoe. Whichever way onelooks at this product, it is not only going to be a gamechanger for FootJoy but the industry in general. Can youtalk to this?STEVE GALE: We agree. HyperFlex is a great combination of functionand athletic inspiration and a look that golfers haven’t seen fromFootJoy in the past. The player that is interested in this look can nowget it from FootJoy along with the performance we are known for.AG: Over the years, we have witnessed numerouspanish cave drawings from more than 15,000 yearsago show humans with animal skins or furs wrappedaround their feet. The body of a well-preserved “iceman”nearly 5,000 years old wears leather foot coveringsstuffed with straw. Shoes, in some form or another,have been around for a very long time. The evolution of foot coverings,from the sandal to present-day athletic shoes that are marvels ofengineering, continues as we find new materials with which to coverour feet.FootJoy – A Rich 158 Year HeritageLet’s take a time tunnel blast to the past – to be precise, let’s journeyback 158 years ago to the year 1857. The trip back in time takes us tothe town of Brockton, Massachusetts. The history books tell us thatthis was the birthplace of the company that is today known throughoutthe world as FootJoy.Back then the company was simply the Burt and Packard ShoeCompany. Even then, it was widely known and respected for the highstandards it set for both design and comfort. Some sixty-three yearslater, in the 1920’s the company changed and became known as Fieldand Flint. This was the company that developed a range of golf shoesthat became to be called FootJoy.Because the shoes were so good that in 1927, it outfitted the U.S.team for the Ryder Cup and FootJoy was one of the first sponsors ofthis prestigious event. The man who picked FootJoy for the AmericanRyder Cup team was golf legend Walter Hagen.Hagen was, of course, almost as famous for his clothes and appearanceas he was for any of his exploits on, or indeed off, the course.His endorsement was critical; soon more and more golfers were followinghis example and converting to FootJoy. By the time World WarTwo ended, FootJoy had become the number one golf shoe on thePGA Tour, a position which it has held ever since.cutting edge technology. However, the excitementgenerated with the launch of HYPERFLEX has beenexceptional. It’s like the company has discovered theelusive “Ah-ha” moment for golf shoes! It’s going to be ahard act to follow - that’s what we think? What are yourthoughts?SG: We thought the same thing last year after the introduction ofDNA. That was an amazing new innovation in golf footwear and ourthoughts were similar to what you say...”how do we follow that?” Butour design and product teams were energized and immediately wentto work with a clean slate. We didn’t want to come next with anotherversion of DNA. The challenge was to create a brand new categorygeared at different consumer needs.....and the result....HyperFlex.TMAG: FJ’s R&D team deserves to be given the highestrespect for the development of HYPERFLEX. Who wouldhave ever considered drawing inspiration from a bridge!FlexGrid is amazing technology and how your R&DHYPERFLEX is incredible. This is innovation taken to awhole new level! Must make everyone at FJ proud!SG: That is the value in being the leader in golf footwear. We haveamazing designers whose sole passion is to determine what players26 27 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUREFocus On FootJoyISSUE 175 APRIL 2015needs and desires are and then to match them with creative designsand the fashion preferences of our audience. It is amazing to seethe variety of places they gather inspiration from; the Zakim Bridgebeing a great example.AG: With HYPERFLEX, FJ has been quick to recogniseWhile we see the younger demographics embracing thisproduct with open arms, do you see the same responsefrom FJ’s traditional market “sweet spot” - the older andmore mature golfer? Do you see the traditionalist andconservatively minded accepting HYPERFLEX? In fact,what’s the market read from this demographic segmentsince the product was launched? Can you give us a senseof the acceptance level?SG: This project started with a focus on the “younger minded” individual.The team focused on the types of products they prefer in allareas of their lives; professional and recreational. They then createda golf shoe in HyperFlex that matches extreme golf performancewith those personal preferences. While the mind-set is definitelyyounger than many of our other shoe categories, it has been veryinteresting to see the broad range of players that have gravitated toit. Whereas 10-15 years ago, you would not have seen many 40, 50or 60 year olds in this type of styling, today it is quite commonplace.Players are more athletic today in general and HyperFlex appeals tothat mindset.AG: Besides rocking the golf shoe world, HYPERFLEXhas also given us an insight into how well connected FJis to today’s marketplace and consumption trends. Fora company that has its origins tracking back to 1857,it is demonstrating that it registers really high on the“COOL” barometer. While the classics that made FJare still around, you have populated your landscapewith golf shoes that cater to every demographicsector and taste. This shows tremendous versatility.Can we assume that henceforth, FJ is going to bevery sensitive to the younger demographics in theglobal marketplace?SG: Our target audience is the avid player, regardless of age -the player who takes their game seriously and wants to performat a higher level. They expect all of their products - balls, clubs,gloves, footwear and apparel - to contribute to that experience.And while all are interested in performance, their styling and fashionpreferences run the full spectrum. We still offer the traditionalpatterns and colours for the players who prefer that look while now,more-and-more, expanding into brighter colours and more fashionforwardlooks.28 29 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUREFocus On FootJoyISSUE 175 APRIL 2015AG: Golf shoes have now become more like fashionaccessories. They are trendy and the colours are exciting.With this as background, would it be fair to say that therelease of new models will become more seasonal andmore frequent going forward?SG: I would certainly say that is true of colour and we will continueto bring a fresh flow of fashion and colour in all of our categories.However, we will only make structuralchanges in categories when we feel wehave something to add for the avidplayer. Change for the sake ofchange doesn’t do the playerany good. I think the recentchanges in many productsare just superficial. WhenFootJoy brings a newproduct to market, youcan be assured that thereis a performance reasonfor the change.AG: Related to theabove question arechanging trends in smartcasual wear. We are seeingmore people, golfers andnon-golfers dressing up in golf apparel, shoesand accessories. It’s COOL to be seen dressedin these products. Again, do you see this trendgrowing as casual wear and comfort take on aparamount prominence both in and out of theSG: We couldn’t agree more. Today’s players wantproducts that help them to perform at their best on thecourse and then have the ability to transition into theirwork or recreational lives. With the wardrobe for manyprofessionals moving toward more of a casual look,this highlights the need for products that can be worn across allenvironments.AG: From being just a golf shoe company, FJ has grownexponentially. Today, you are major player in shoes,apparel and accessories – we notice that the apparelsector of FJ has become a major player. Range andquality and design have also expanded. Share withus your thoughts on the phenomenal growth your areSG: When we completed our entry into full-line apparel back in 2012,we had lofty expectations of where we could be by 2015. We actuallyeclipsed those numbers within 2 years and are well ahead of ouroriginal plan. With the player acceptance of our apparel products, wehave gradually expanded our line and will continue to do so. Withthe energy created in footwear by DNA and HyperFlex, the continuedsuccess of our glove range and the positive momentum for FJ Appareland accessories, yes, we feel as if we are firing on all cylinders.AG: FJ is already the #1 shoe and glove company in golf.Looking ahead do you see the brand ascending to the topspot in the golf apparel and accessories business in theSG: That certainly would be nice but we really don’t get caught upso much in the market position. In apparel, many brands come andgo. We want to provide the golfer with the types of performanceproducts that will keep them coming back to the FJ brand for yearsto come. When a player goes to his closet every day and has tochoose between all the brands he owns, we want him to choose FJ.That is what drives us!30 31 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUS Mizuno JPX Golf BallISSUE 175 APRIL 201532 33 ASIAN GOLFThe realfunction ofthe “micro dimples” kicksin as a golf ball peaks andslows by stalling the descentphase by a fraction. This is whatresults in the new JPX golf ballbeing able to increase itsoverall airtime.”– Masashi TamakoshiWe’ve all heard about hang-time in basketball and infootball. For the uninitiated, hang-time is the lengthof time a punted football remains in the air or thelength of time a leaping athlete, as a basketball playerjumping for a dunk shot, remains in mid-air.But hang-time in golf? Jiminycricket! You bet your sweetbippy! It’s for real and it’sawesome!Now that we’ve done withthe exclaiming and swearing,what’s the big deal about hang-time ingolf? Well you see, the smart guys at MizunoGolf have just come out after having beencloseted for untold hours, days and months(three years to be precise), with a productthat they believe will knock the socks ofyour feet.All the excitement is centred on a revolutionarygolf ball that takes the conventionalgolf ball dimple to new heights. Introducingthe brand new Mizuno JPX Golf Ball!This revolutionary golf ball comes hoton the heels of the high performance MP-Sand MP-X golf balls from Mizuno.Central to the Mizuno JPX Golf Ball isthe addition of “micro-dimples” to the conventionaldimple pattern on a golf ball. The“micro-dimple” concept came out of cuttingedge research undertaken in collaborationwith the Fukuoka Institute of Technologyinto the ‘descent’ phase of ball flight. This isa phase that Mizuno was quick to recogniseas being the least optimised in terms of currentdimple design.Masashi Tamakoshi, Mizuno’s Head ofGolf Ball Development explains that theaddition of ‘micro-dimples’ located aroundeach larger dimple on the ball effectivelyslows down the ball’s descent to extendairtime and therefore distance. That’s it! Theextra-hang-time really works!According to Tamakoshi the real function ofthe “micro dimples” kicks in as a golf ball peaksand slows by stalling the descent phase by afraction. This is what results in the new JPX golfball being able to increase its overall airtime.Tamakoshi explains that the dimple clusterfeatured on the JPX ball really does its jobtowards the end of the ball’s flight. The microdimples form part of a 512 dimple patternwrapped around a three-piece constructionthat makes the JPX golf ball very soft andresponsive.Does the hang-time technology affecthigher ball speeds at impact? Absolutely notaccording to Tamakoshi. “It’s all about keepingthe ball in the air for s slightly longer timeon its way down!” he emphasised.Well, now that you have been introducedto the brand new Mizuno JPX golf ball, getout there on the course and show yourgolfing buddies how you can eke out a fewmore yards on your golf drive with hang-timetechnology!

EQUIPMENT FOCUSWilson Staff D200 SeriesISSUE 175 APRIL 2015In this special report, Asian Golf provides an exclusiveinsight to the revolutionary D200 series.After the D100s, the natural progression for WilsonStaff was to take the next bold step which was tointroduce adjustability features. What does this meanto a golfer, especially a slower-swinging player? Well, in anutshell it means that golfers with a slower swing speed cannow use a feature that heretofore was more or less meant forgolfers with fast swing speeds without adding to the weight.Michael Vrska, Wilson Staff’s Global Director of Innovationtold Asian Golf, “The D200 driver technology is revolutionary - ultralightweight (SuperLight) combined with adjustability has neverbeen achieved before.” According to him, the company worked forover two years to get the adjustable components and the right materialsto be as light as possible and to create a strong enough internal supportstructure to house those components. “The secret to making a Super-The secret to making aSuperLight product is touse every available gramoptimally so that you obtain asolid feeling, great soundingdriver with the right launchand spin.”One thing that no one can fault Wilson Staff is for beingconsistent. This one century old golf equipment manufacturerhas lasted for 100 years by not being wishywashyabout how it has gone about its researchand development projects.Afew years back, Wilson Staff launched the D-100 family of golf clubs andthe big buzz about these clubs centred on an engineering phenomenonthat it called “The Right Light technology.In simple terms, it’s all about infusing limited available mass tocreate a powerful, solid-feeling, balanced golf club, increasing clubhead speeds with the same swing effort for greater distance.Since the introduction of this new technology, Wilson Staff has gone on tolaunch the D200 series which takes “The Right Light technology to a wholenew level.34 35 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUSWilson Staff D200 SeriesLight product is to use every available gramoptimally so that you obtain a solid feeling,great sounding driver with the right launchand spin. That’s not easy, which is whythe D200 driver is a game changer,” Vrskaexplained.The D200 driver is a game changeralright – it can be set from 1° weaker to 1°stronger than the marked loft, and the cluboffers upright settings that produce a drawbias. At 268 grams, the D200 is one gramlighter than its predecessor, the D100. In theAsian Golf test, it was discovered that theD200 driver was not only easier to swing– it looks like Wilson Staff has ingeniouslydesigned it to be a slice-buster, too. This iswonderful news for slow swingers!“We discovered a way to make the D200driver even lighter than the D100 whileadding adjustability. The lightweight feelin these clubs allows the player to swingeven faster with the same effort, providinguncharted distances,” said Doug Thiel, WilsonStaff’s Global Director of Marketing.The advanced technology has also beenapplied to the D200 series of fairway woods,hybrids and irons. The woods and hybridsutilize 455 Carpenter Steel which produceshigher CT and ball speeds than other typesof steel and are high launching and veryeasy to hit.The D200 irons are also loaded withcutting edge technology that Wilson Staffcalls Speed Sole Technology. Essentiallywhat the company has done is toremove the extra materialWe are challenging consumers to tryWilson Staff when they step into thefitting bay. We have always made greatequipment but we are taking a stand behindour innovation with confidence; asking peopleto put our 7 iron up against any competitorout there, guaranteeing we’ll be longerand straighter.”behind the bottom of the face of the iron tocreate driver-like CT and deliver higher performanceon shots hit low on the face. Thisinnovation has resulted in more weight beingmoved to the heel and toe of the iron, resultingin higher MOI and more forgiveness.Thiel also took the opportunity to informAsian Golf about another exciting new productfrom Wilson Staff – the DUO golf ball. “Weare maintaining our low compression leadershipby launching the World’s Softest GolfBall. The new DUO truly is a game-changerand the industry has taken notice. 2015 willbe a very telling year for us.”“Our key focus in 2015 is the D200 line ofequipment – designed for the D, or Distanceplayer – which accounts for the majority ofthe market,” said Tim Clarke, Presidentof Wilson Staff. “We are challengingconsumers to try Wilson Staffwhen they step into the fittingbay. We have always made great equipmentbut we are taking a stand behind ourinnovation with confidence; asking peopleto put our 7 iron up against any competitorout there, guaranteeing we’ll be longer andstraighter.”Clarke who has led the progress of WilsonStaff for the past few years pointed out:“It is bold moves like these that will earnconsideration of our brand. That and havingtour-proven equipment. Led by PadraigHarrington’s win at The Honda Classic, ourplayers are off to a strong startWilson Staff ranks golfers in three distinctcategories that lay focus on:Feel Control DistanceAs state earlier, the D200s are all aboutthe “D” player – the player who wantsdistance. And these new clubs do just that– in play, they add some yards, are moreaccurate and inspire confidence.36 37 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUS Scotty Cameron: GOLO Family Of PuttersISSUE 175 APRIL 2015The name Scotty Cameron is sacred in the game of golf. Golfers,both professionals and club players alike play with a special sense ofconfidence when they hold a putter that bears the Scotty Cameron name.The living legend grew up making putters and his design philosophy isanchored on a simple belief that when a putter is finished, it should look like itmelts into the ground. Herein lies the unique mark of distinction that makes a putterproduced by Scotty Cameron the finest putters for the best players in the world.Today, Scotty Cameron in partnership with the Acushnet Company (the parent companyof Titleist) continues to produce the most sought after range of putters in the world.38 39 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUS Scotty Cameron: GOLO Family Of PuttersISSUE175APRIL 2015The genius of Scotty Cameronis back and this time around, ithas manifested itself in an excitingrange of putters labelled asthe GOLO putter.In describing the GOLO family ofputters, Cameron declared, “Few sensoryperceptions rival the satisfaction of a perfectlystruck putt and with my innovativeface-sole core technology engineered intoeach new GOLO putter, that sensation canbe experienced with every roll.”The master craftsman went on toexplain: “The GOLO line has been aroundfor three years now, and it’s won a lot of golftournaments with some of the best playersin the world - we’ve moved in today’s technology,machining and computer systemsand taken everything we’ve learned on tourto create an even better GOLO.”According to Cameron, the new rangeof GOLO putters possess a better feel, bettersound, better alignment and better overallperformance. “It’s the next wave of constructiontechnology – and it’s simply better.Nobody else has done what we’ve donewith this line,” he confidently claimed.The new GOLOs are Cameron’s mostforward-thinking design thoughts mergedinto a line that offers a variety of puttershapes and configurations to fit any player’sgame. Each model incorporates new multimaterial,aircraft-grade aluminum and precisionmilled 303 stainless steel constructionfor improved MOI, increased stabilityand unbelievable forgiveness.The steel frame is seamlessly connectedto the aluminum face-sole core at five keypoints with new vibration dampeningtechnology that delivers the softest feelingCameron putter in recent years.The steel body has a Silver Mist finishthat elegantly contrasts with the dark anodizedaluminum face-sole core that popsthrough the top to create a sightline fieldThe new GOLOs are Cameron’s mostforward-thinking design thoughtsmerged into a line that offers a variety ofputter shapes and configurations to fit anyplayer’s game. Each model incorporatesnew multi-material, aircraft-grade aluminumand precision milled 303 stainless steel constructionfor improved MOI, increased stabilityand unbelievable forgiveness.”on the back flange for easy alignment. Fourwayrelief on the sole prevents snagging fora smooth takeaway.The new GOLOs include four models: GOLO 3, a mid-mallet with a heelshafted flow neck; GOLO 5, an angled back mallet with acrisp single bend shaft; GOLO 5R, a rounded back mallet with acrisp single bend shaft; and GOLO 6, a B-back mallet with a crispsingle bend shaft.A new GOLO 5 Dual Balance modelis available for those players who preferthe GOLO mallet head but need maximumstability in their stroke.In reference to the design of the GOLOputters, Cameron said, “The goal of thedesign was to move the weight out of themidsection and enhance the perimeterweighting like a horse-shoe around theoutside to create higher moment of inertiaand increase the resistance to twist ….. sothe more we can get a horse-shoe, gettingthe weight out and back, the better off weare on off-centre hits.”The face-sole core is a single piece ofdark anodized lightweight aluminum thatcomprises the GOLO’s sole and midsection,wraps up and around to create the face andpops through the flange to create the sightlinefield. The aluminum forms the entireputter face, as opposed to a traditional faceinsert that occupies only a specific centresection of the face.GOLO putters utilize new vibrationdampening technology to achieve a seamlessintegration of the aluminum core andsteel frame. Internal vibration dampeners infive strategic locations preserve the benefitsof the aluminum, providing golfers with asofter feel and sound across the putter face.“We now have the softest feeling putterwe’ve ever had in the GOLO line,” Cameronsaid. “With the new vibration dampeningsystem, when we put the two piecestogether the aluminum actually does nottouch the stainless steel. It’s very slick.”The soles of the new GOLO models aredesigned with enhanced relief in four directions,front-to-back and heel-to-toe. “This isquite unique. We now have relief all the wayaround the sole, so it sits on the dead centre,”Cameron said. “Hardly ever are you on aflat surface on a putting green, so we madethe draft angles perfect in each direction,front-to-back, heel-to-toe, so that you’re notgoing to snag the ground.”“We feel in this new line that we havedeveloped innovative putters for all malletfans,” Cameron explained. He added,“Whether you’re a line guy, a round guy, asquare guy, a soft guy, a heel-shafted guy –we’ve got it.”In conjunction with the release of theGOLOs, Cameron has also announced thelaunch of his high performance line of Selectputters with the new Select Roundback,a modern mid mallet design with tourvalidatedbalance and stability.“When we introduced them a year ago,the Fastback and Squareback instantlyresonated with golfers at every level of thegame …... alignment is a huge trend ontour, and having multiplesight lines on a head worksto benefit many golfers especiallyif you have difficultysetting up to the ball andsquaring the face at impact,this is a great option.”The new range includesthree modern blade designs.Select putters use a deepmilledface to deliver tourvalidatedfeel and soft sound.Select weights in the heel andtoe are perfectly matched to theshaft length to provide balanceand stability.Select Roundback, Fastbackand Squareback have a shorter bladelength and extended back with a redanodized aluminum soleplate that allowsfor a thicker steel face for solid feel. Eachis designed with a single bend shaft thatpromotes minimal toe flow for players thatwant, or need, less arc in their putting stroke.Select Roundback, Fastback andSquareback models feature vertical andhorizontal pop-through sight lines on theback flange that are positioned directlybetween a player’s eyes, providing a visualreference to help square the face.“Whether you prefer a horizontal orvertical sight line, the crisscross makes iteasier to square the face. If you set the puttertoo far forward, the crisscross will makethe face appear closed. If you put it too farback, it will look open. Alignment is moreand more becoming the talk of the tour andthe feedback out there has been fantastic,”Cameron explained.So, for all those of you, who want a reallygreat putter, check out the new rangeof putters from Scotty Cameron. You’ddo well to stick one in your bag – there’snothing like a powerful weapon to help youlower your scores.40 41 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUS PING’s Point Of ViewISSUE 175 APRIL 2015Loft, sole width and bounceangle are among the importantconsiderations in the “scoring clubs”to make sure you can impart maximumspin and control on shots into the green.PING’s new Glide wedges are custom-engineeredwith multiple loft and sole combinationsJohn K. Solheim,PING Vice President of Engineering.BY JOHN K. SOLHEIMPING Vice President of EngineeringIf you struggle with your short game as Ihave, you know how quickly strokes canadd up around the green. Well, I’m happyto report that help has arrived for us in theform of PING’s new Glide wedges, whichhave brought dramatic improvement for me. Judgingby the number of tour events they’ve been partof with pros like Bubba Watson, Billy Horschel andMiguel Ángel Jiménez, my experience isn’t new.With the Glide wedges it’s remarkably easy to makesolid impact. As a result, I’m hitting approach shotscloser to the flag and I’m getting up and downfrom off the green to save par and, even better,convert birdies. Our exciting new technology willhelp you achieve similar success.With the Glide wedges we took a hands-downapproach, engineering the club from grip to solefor maximizing trajectory control from any distanceon full swings and touch shots alike. The combinationof a specialized grip, wedge-specific shaftand new head designs has produced PING’s mostconsistent and versatile wedge line ever.42 43 ASIAN GOLFWith the Glide wedgeswe took a hands-downapproach, engineering the clubfrom grip to sole for maximizingtrajectory control from any distanceon full swings and touchshots alike. The combination of aspecialized grip, wedge-specificshaft and new head designs hasproduced PING’s most consistentand versatile wedge line ever.”THE DYLA-WEDGE GRIP: In creating thisunique grip, we took our inspiration fromobserving tour players who are especiallyskilled with their wedges. A traitthey all share: They grip down whenexecuting shots requiring utmostprecision. Our proprietary grip is¾ of an inch longer to encouragegripping down to achieve a lowertrajectory and “dial in” tighter controlon touch shots. Also, grip-downmarkings at 1 3/8-inch intervals guidehand placement, and a softer taperingprofile improves feel when utilizing thelower grip-down markings.CFS WEDGE SHAFT: Optimized in weight, flex andbalance, this 118-gram proprietary shaft promotes lowerlaunch with enhanced control, feel and stability (CFS). Also,the swingweights get progressively heavier from the lowerto the higher lofts, creating a heavier system weight toprovide a more stable feel that further enhances control.www.ping.com

EQUIPMENT FOCUS PING’s Point Of ViewThe Glide wedges offer a specializedgrip, shaft and headcustom-engineered to deliver the trajectorycontrol you need to attack pinsand consistently knock the ball close.So visit a PING custom fitter todetermine which Glide wedges are thebest fit for your swing and your game.You’ll be better for it.”IMPROVED TURF INTERACTION: Concerted effort was made to improve turfinteraction by modifying the lead-edge radius, primary camber (or bounce),and trail edge/heel relief. The goal was to optimize performance on full shots inthe lower lofts and maximize versatility in the higher-lofted wedges. A moreroundedlead edge improves initial turf interaction at impact while trail edge/heel relief unlocks versatility when opening the face.FITTING BY SOLE TYPE: Three sole configurations – standard, thin and wide-- ensure the wedges will glide through the turf and allow golfers to be fit accordingto their attack angle and most common turf and sand conditions.Standard Sole (SS) – A balance of versatility and playability, best suited forplayers with a moderate attack angle and divot depths, and when turf conditionsvary.Thin Sole (TS)– Maximum versatility. With the least amount of bounce it performsbest from tight lies and a shallow attack angle and shallow divots. Heelrelief enables golfers to keep the lead edge low when opening the face.Wide Sole (WS) – Maximum forgiveness. This configuration is highly forgivingdue to the large sole width. A good fit for softer playing conditions and a steepangle of attack because it prevents digging.LOFT-OPTIMIZED GORGE GROOVES: We’ve engineered two groove designs inthe Glide wedges to optimize their versatility. The radius and wall angles varyby loft in our Gorge grooves (which are precision-milled at PING) to ensurehigher spin for consistent, predictable results.In lofts 47° through 54°, grooves have a 16° sidewall for more groove volumeto maximize spin consistency on full shots.In the 56° through 60° lofts, a 24° sidewall and tighter radius help compressand “grab” the ball to maximize spin on short approaches and chip shots foradded precision around the green.MOISTURE-REPELLING FINISH: Another attribute that aids performance isthe chrome-plated 431 stainless steel head. The finish repels moisture to createmore friction for improved spin and consistency in wet conditions and lies inthe rough.We’ve all experienced the frustration of standing in the fairway with awedge in our hands, in position to make par or better, only to misplay a shotor two and let the scoring opportunity slip away. The Glide wedges offer aspecialized grip, shaft and head custom-engineered to deliver the trajectorycontrol you need to attack pins and consistently knock the ball close. So visita PING custom fitter to determine which Glide wedges are the best fit for yourswing and your game. You’ll be better for it.44 45 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUS Taylormade’s AeroBurner IronsISSUE 175 APRIL 2015What do Formula 1’s Lewis Hamilton, MotoGP’s Marc Marquez and UsainBolt have in common? These are the fastest humans on four wheels, twowheels and on two human legs. They are all about speed, lightning fast,blinding speed! Now that we have put speed into proper perspective, let’sWhile many perceive golf to be a slow and time-consuming game, this isjust launched a trio of new golf products that embody two special characteristics.The products generate incredible speed and outstanding distance!Interested? OK – we’ll let the news rip right acrossour pages!Meet the speed merchants of golf - Taylormade’sAeroBurner irons, the AeroBurner Minidriverand the AeroBurner golf balls.AeroBurner irons is a brand new product lineand follows in the footsteps of the AeroBurner metalwoods.The irons are built for distance through speed,and have been engineered to deliver unsurpassed stabilityand explosive distance.TaylorMade reports that in designing the AeroBurnerirons, it has stretched the limits of innovation. “The Aeroburneriron features an up-to-the-limit COR face designengineered to maximize ball speed off the clubface and alow centre of gravity generates high launch and great feelthroughout the set,” said a company spokesman. Additionally,the high-MOI head design provides enhanced forgivenessand stability on balls hit across the clubface. Thisis user-friendliness and playability taken to its limit.“The AeroBurner iron breaks the mold of thetypical distance iron and brings distance to allgolfers,” said Tomo Bystedt, TaylorMade’s Director ofProduct Creation. “Never before has up-to-the-limitCOR speed and distance been delivered in such aneasy-to-play and confidence-inspiring package.Distance has now come to all golfers.”To create the ultimate distance iron, TaylorMadeengineers have optimized loft and CG placementfor consistent, powerful shot-making from any lie.Incorporating TaylorMade’s revolutionary SpeedPocket technology to promote higher launch anglesand more ball speed, AeroBurner irons protect ballspeed on shots hit low on the face for more consistentdistances all across the face.46 47 ASIAN GOLF

EQUIPMENT FOCUS Taylormade’s AeroBurner IronsISSUE 175 APRIL 2015Performance aside, aesthetically, theAeroBurner irons feature a brushed satinhead finish similar to TaylorMade’s TourPreferred irons. The satin finish reduces glareoff the clubface while delivering a sleeklook. A longer blade length, more offset andthicker topline give all golfers an inspiring,confidence-boosting appearance at address.AeroBurner irons are available in 5-ironthrough sand wedge, equipped with TM7-415 by Mitsubishi-Rayon graphite shaft (S, R),and a KBS C-Taper 90 steel shaft (S,R) options.Complementing the AeroBurner irons isthe AeroBurner Mini Driver, a 253cc metalwoodequipped with a 43.5” shaft. For thosewho remember the revolutionary SLDRmini-driver, note that the AeroBurner versionis designed to deliver even more speed andforgiveness than its predecessor. The MiniDriver is specially engineered for players whocommonly drive with their 3-wood.The Mini Driver is a new category fromTaylorMade, delivering golfers 2 club optionsin 1; a driver alternative or a 3-woodreplacement. Many of the same featuresengineered into the other AeroBurner metalwoodsare now part of this new category.Like all of the AeroBurner metalwoods, theAeroBurner Mini Driver is “Made of Speed”.Taking everything they’ve learned fromAeroBurner’s Mini Driver features thebiggest open channel Speed Pocketof any TaylorMade metalwood in companyhistory, increasing the size of the sweet spotwhile reducing spin. A larger hittable facearea and decreased overall size promoteimproved playability in a confidence-inspiringshape.”the development of SLDR Mini Driver, Taylor-Made engineers have taken AeroBurner MiniDriver to the next level, designing a productwith a new aerodynamic shape, shallowface, raised centre crown and incorporated anew hosel fin, created to maximize clubheadspeed during the downswing. With emphasisplaced on low-forward CG, Mini Driver deliversdriver-like launch conditions off the teewith remarkable accuracy.Additionally, similar to the entireAeroBurner Mini Driver features the biggestopen channel Speed Pocket of anyTaylorMade metalwood in company history,increasing the size of the sweet spot whilereducing spin. A larger hittable face areaand decreased overall size promote improvedplayability in a confidence-inspiringshape.Aesthetically, AeroBurner Mini Drivercomes with a crown with a new matte whitefinish, a black PVD face and linear crowngraphic, features implemented to facilitateeasy, accurate face alignment. The TP modelis designed with a longer hosel, flatter lieangle and more open face angle.“The SLDR Mini Driver captivated golferson all skill levels by delivering better3-wood performance from the tee,” said Brian Bazzel,TaylorMade’s Senior Director of Metalwood Creation.“With AeroBurner, we’ve now designeda metalwood that delivers even more speedand forgiveness to this new, popular clubtype.”Rounding up the speed packagefrom TaylorMade is the AeroBurnerPro golf balls. This is a three-pieceball engineered for high ball speedsoff the clubface, designed to deliverspeed and distance with pro-likestopping power.Key to the performance of Aero-Burner Pro are TaylorMade’s patentedand proven technologies, includinga new, softer REACT Core for greaterball speed on all shots for increaseddistance and Low-Drag PerformanceAerodynamics (LDP) 342 high-lift, lowdrag dimple pattern designed to launchhigh and sustained flight. The spin controland soft feel come from the interface ofTaylorMade’s SPIN MANTLE and proprietaryIOTHANE® cover.So, what are you waiting for? Rush out and putthe power package from AeroBurner to the speedtest. It’s going to be one helluva scorching experience!Rounding up the speedpackage from TaylorMadeis the AeroBurner Pro golfballs. This is a three-piece ball engineeredfor high ball speeds off theclubface, designed to deliver speedand distance with pro-like stoppingpower a confidence-inspiringshape.”48 49 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUREGrow The Game!ISSUE 175 APRIL 2015This article is being dedicated to the golf industry in Southeast Asia. For more than 50years, golf course development has been experiencing steady growth in this regionwhich is home to more than 600 million people, living in an environment that is ratedto be one of the fastest growing regions in the world. Today, there are over 800 golfcourses in Southeast Asia and more being added on every year.While there is progress in the development of new courses, many of the existingcourses have been around for between 20 and 30 years and a good percentage arebeginning to show signs of wear and tear and some have been ravaged to an extentwhere the facilities are no longer playable.50 51 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUREGrow The Game!ISSUE 175 APRIL 2015How do you know if yourgolf course needs renovation?You first have to lookat the game of golf as itis played today and thepeople playing it.The game of golf is changing, and hasbeen for some time. Recent trends in golfcourse architecture have had a tremendousimpact on the playability and maintainabilityof golf courses. Technological advances in turfgrass, irrigation systems, maintenance equipment,chemicals, and maintenance practicesare all changing the face of the game. All ofthese things are inter-related and affect eachother as they are applied to the golf course.Against this backdrop, Asian Golf satdown with one of the biggest names inthe business of golf course design in theworld, Schmidt Curley Design. This companyhas received numerous accolades for itsaward winning golf course developmentsincluding the Asian Golf Award for Best GolfCourse Architect in the Asia Pacific for thepast three years.We spoke to Brian Curley, the cofounderand principal of the company andwe now present excerpts of the interviewwhere he shares his thoughts on the processof renovation:ASIAN GOLF: Let’s look at the rich anddiverse legacy that golf has createdin the region over the last 30 years.In this period of time, the populationof golf courses in Southeast Asia inparticular has ballooned to over 800courses. Many of these courses arenow fairly advanced in age and duefor renovation. Do you think that thisis a fair assumption?BRIAN CURLEY: There is no questionthese courses often need some help. Eventhe best construction efforts need help overtime. Many of these were built with less thanproper construction techniques to begin withso the need is much greater. In addition, thebusiness often sees trends and attitudes indesign change and the marketplace can bevery fickle. Good owners and operators willunderstand the value of improvements ona long term basis. There has been a monumentalmovement in what is considered aproper course with less emphasis on perfectlymanicured courses but more rustic andnatural. This has been a very difficult sell inAsia especially but times have changed andthe pendulum is shifting this way. Ultimately,owners will see that adjustments to thecourse will result in sometimes substantialreductions in operation cost and all the whilepleasing the golfers with better visuals and,perhaps, better conditions and playability.Good owners and operators will understand the value of improvementson a long term basis. There has been a monumentalmovement in what is considered a proper course with less emphasis onperfectly manicured courses but more rustic and natural.”There is a strong argument for arenovation that takes time, evena few years. There is no need to rush toa new product when the budget mayprevent it. Better to take your time anddo it right over a longer period as longas the course is somewhat proper.”AG: As one of the most highly regardedgolf course design companiesin the world, give us a sense of howyou view renovation. Age alone is notthe only criterion to proceed with arenovation project. Correct?BC: Correct. We have a couple of renovationdeals that are very young but poorlydesigned courses that golfers hate and willnot return to. Quite often this has been in thequest for difficulty over playability. Golfers willaccept (and support) difficult courses whereyou can find your ball. But, as I have oftensaid, losing your ball is tough and is no fun,even for the best players. Many courses thataverage players see as overly intimidating areseen in much the same manner by professionals.Many players (and owners) think acourse must be tough to be considered greatbut this attitude is changing and the playersthat matter (the ones who do not play forfree but are paying the bills) should have alouder voice. I believe you will see a drasticshift on an annual basis in the top rankings ofcourses in Asia over the years until the dustsettles and the focus is on many factors muchgreater than difficulty.AG: Many owners that we have spokento feel that renovation is like addinga new room or toilet to an existinghome. How can this overly simplisticmindset be changed and why is it importantto view a renovation projectfrom a holistic perspective?BC: Many of these owners have never hada qualified person give them a real analysisof their course and what the potential maybe. I have opened the eyes of many ownerswho are now looking to ways to stay on topof a market and remain the best possibleproduct for their users. I think many ownersfeel that the money spent will not be seen.This could be the case but there can also begreat strides in the proper direction on marginalbudgets if the right person is giving asolution or suggestion.AG: Another owner that we talked tomaintained that he was only interestedin renovating his greens and was notinterested in doing something aboutthe fairways which, by our estimationhad compacted over the years andwas rock solid. Your advice?BC: Many factors and questions here. Is itwalking only? Do carts add to the problem?Is there a proper path system? A lot of problemsare the result of another related issue.AG: Likewise, there is anotherwho wants his bunkers only to bedeepened because he feels that theexisting traps are too shallow. Again,your thoughts?BC: They must be really shallow! We havedone many deep bunkers over the yearsbut only if there was commensurate fairwaywidth. The combination of deep bunkersand narrow fairways is a lethal recipe. I preferless depth nowadays and, perhaps, morerandom placement.AG: renovation advisable?BC: Sure. There is a strong argument for arenovation that takes time, even a few years.There is no need to rush to a new productwhen the budget may prevent it. Better totake your time and do it right over a longerperiod as long as the course is somewhatproper.AG: Oftentimes, irrigation systemsare totally out of commission. Giventhe fact that a golf course needs towould it not make sense to investirrigation system?BC: Absolutely, and this is quite often thefirst step in the process to look at more worksuch as bunkers or turf changes. Many, many,remodels are the result of irrigation change.52 53 ASIAN GOLF

SPECIAL FEATUREGrow The Game!AG: In a complete course renovation,would it make sense to minimizegrassed areas along fairways to reducedmaintenance cost?BC: Only if there is a well thought out substitutefor the reduction of turf. Many Asianclimates would be difficult to introducea sandy waste area as is often the case inmany other climates. The amount of rainfalloften dictates that you must keep a verymaintainable surface. This is why so manycourses just opt to plant out wall to wall turfrather than fight weeds and snake habitat.AG: In a renovation project would youconsider the utilization of native grassspecies on fairways – after all, theseare rugged and robust species that willbe naturally resistant to pest attacks,less demanding on water and totallycapable of growing and remaininghealthy without the use of growthenhancing chemicals and fertilizers?54 55 ASIAN GOLFBC: It sounds great in concept but oftenhits a snag with the marketplace thatdemands good conditioning. I am hopefulthat this will become more accepted asthe concerns for the cost of playing driveplayers away from the game. If you studyold footage of major championship golf, thecourses were often less than mint in condition.I am hopeful this can change in time.AG: One of the biggest challengesconfronting the world today is thegrowing scarcity of fresh water.Against this doomsday scenario,wouldn’t it make sense to factor thisimportant consideration into anyrenovation project?BC: Of course. Reducing turf from thebeginning needs to be a given. The difficultydown the road is what to plant whilemaintaining playability and a good look.The reality is that dry, hardpan areas can bevery playable, maybe not what the ownersthinks players want but the Western marketshave been very accepting of the look.AG: Would you subscribe to thethinking that a renovation projectwould be an ideal opportunity forfriendlier and easier to play on whichin turn would help grow the gameand generate more operating revenuefor the club?BC: Certainly. This should be at the top ofthe list in any renovation. How do we drivemore players as well as just a concern forrates increasing revenue? Many coursesexist with small profit margins and a slightincrease would be a huge impact to thebottom line. Again, the long term look maydrive the acceptance of spending “now”money in search of long term revenues.AG: Renovation would also be a greatway to correct the mistakes made onAgree?BC: No doubt. Asia has no shortage ofcourses that were poorly thought out,designed, and constructed. Too often thenovice believes this is what a golf courseshould look and play like. I have long seenthis as one of the barriers to the growth ofthe game. Players go from the range to acourse that is poorly designed and unplayableresulting in a frustrated player thatgives up. Too often these players go straightto the back tees of a difficult course ratherthan build up a skill level. Starting withproper experience could help immensely ingrowing the game.

SPECIAL FEATUREGrow The GameISSUE 175 APRIL 2015This was all that was neededfor the newly formed USRecreational Golf Association(USRGA) to swing into action.It’s founding president, DaveFelker, in full support ofthe bold Japanese decision declared, “It isrefreshing to see that the JGGA has decidedto lead the charge of sensibility and encourageJapanese golf equipment manufacturersto develop non-conforming products sorecreational golf consumers will finally havean expanded range of products to choosefrom, which is the norm in most othersports. We applaud the JGGA’s decision!”Felker, a crusader for non-forming golfequipment and accessories has been leadingthe drive for a change towards nonconformingequipment. In fact, some yearsback, he launched the controversial Polaragolf ball which is said to be a ball that goesstraight but is non-conforming. He followedthis revolution with the introduction of thePolara Advantage driver which is said to blasta ball to great lengths. Once again, it fallsIt’s been a few weeks since the Japan Golf Goods Association(JGGA) announced its decision to permit the use ofnon-conforming golf clubs. In a statement, the JGGA said it“believes that it is desirable for the stimulation of the golf marketto have a wide variety of golf equipment available in the mar-that more and more golfers will enjoy playing golf as a result ofsuch improvement in the golf equipment market.”foul of the USGA and R&A because the driverdoes not conform to their respective rules.“Once Japanese manufacturers start todevelop more non-conforming clubs forthe Asian market and it becomes a norm, itis not a stretch to expect them to begin toexport the products to the US and Europeand we fully expect this to shift to happensoon,” Felker explained.When asked how American and Europeanequipment manufacturers will reactto the Japanese affront, Felker said, “Fromwhat we have heard and seen, the major USgolf OEMs have been afraid to move into therecreational golf equipment market becausethey still remember the USGA’s reactionwhen Callaway Golf Company introducedthe ERC II driver.”Fact From The Past: The ERC II Driver createda world-wide stir with its hot “ultra-thin”Forged Titanium face which was deemedillegal for tournament play by the USGA.According to Felker, he does not expectthe USGA to say anything because they donot want to create any more ill will with therecreational golf community and they nowrecognize that recreational golf is outsidetheir jurisdiction. “Perhaps the bigger issueis, “How do brands like Srixon, Bridgestone,Callaway, Taylor-Made, Cobra, etc. marketrecreational products using their “pyramidof-influence”marketing model and theirstables of highly paid Pro Tour players?”Felker questioned.In explaining himself, Felker gave thefollowing example of what could happenon a TV commercial featuring a golf superstarendorsing a non-conforming golf club:“Even though I don’t play this driver on thePro Tour, when I am playing with my buddiesfor fun and want to obsolete anothergolf course, I pull out the Callaway ERC-17and then go on to eagle every par 5 on thecourse. You can do the same. I guarantee it”?The USRGA believes that many majorequipment manufacturers will create alternativebrands as not to create brand identityconfusion in the market (like Titleist andPinnacle, from Acushnet and TaylorMadeand Adams Golf from adidas) and will havenon-Tour Players endorsing their recreationalproduct lines.“To help manufacturers who marketrecreational equipment that exceeds theperformance limitations established by theUSGA and R&A, the USRGA has developedan insignia that can be featured on productsand marketing materials that states, “Conformsto USRGA Rules of Golf.” The insignia(shown below) is available to all partners/sponsors of the USRGA. Felker pointed out.The USRGAbelieves all the effortsto recognizeand better serverecreational golf willhave many positivebenefits for thegame of golf. Thisis how the fledgingAll of these changes will undoubtedly lead togrowth in the number of recreational golfers,many of whom will one day graduate to the ranks ofserious competitive and serious tournament golfers –all great developments for the game of golf.” – Dave Felkerorganization argues its case: Simply recognizing recreational golf isdistinct and different from governing seriouscompetitive golf and is not part of theUSGA and R&A’s jurisdiction will eliminateall of the confusion and concern abouthaving to follow rules that are not meantfor recreational golf; The USRGA Rules will still provide structureto the game but will enable golfers tohave more fun. Offer golfers a wider range of high performanceequipment that is only limitedby the laws of physics that will make thegame easier to learn for beginners, morefun to play for current golfers and willlikely bring lapsed golfers back to thegame, especially those that will benefitfrom the enhanced equipment. By removing the artificial limits onequipment performance, this will open upnew opportunities for all golf companiesto reach new equipment performancelevels and even expand the size of theirgolf equipment offerings.“All of these changes will undoubtedlylead to growth in the number of recreationalgolfers, many of whom will one day graduateto the ranks of serious competitive and serioustournament golfers – all great developmentsfor the game of golf,” said Felker.Meanwhile, the USRGA has been verybusy promoting “Grow the Game” initiativesto build momentum around the world.“The USRGA will play an expanding role asmore and more individuals and associationsadopt the USRGA Rules of Golf and themore USRGA members, the louder our voicewill be in the golf community and this willbenefit everyone,” Felker concluded.56 57 ASIAN GOLF

GAME IMPROVEMENTISSUE 175 APRIL 2015Eureka! The problem’s solved! This is what’s screwing up your golf game – it’scalled the Amygdala, an almond shaped mass of nuclei (mass of cells) locateddeep within the brain. It is that part that is involved in many of our emotions andmotivations, particularly those that are related to survival. The amygdala is involvedin the processing of emotions such as fear, anger, and pleasure. The amygdala isalso responsible for determining what memories are stored and where the memoriesare stored in the brain. If only you can gain control over your Amygdala …………By John HaimeIsat slumped on the end of my golfbag.This time it was Melbourne, andI had just missed another cut. I wasstruggling, frustrated, and angry.The future did not look bright for a22-year old whose professional golf careerwas supposed to be full of promise.My downward spiral had started weeksearlier, at another international tournament,when Australia’s Greg Norman, the world’stop golfer, changed the dynamic of my world.I was standing on the first tee as the crowdfavorite came into view—Norman’s groupwas playing right after mine—and the atmospherebecame charged. There was moremoney, more people, more pressure.For the first time in my professional career,my hands and knees were shaking at the firsttee. After an embarrassing start and an uncomfortablefirst nine holes, the day drew toa miserable climax on the second nine as myscore and my head both spun out of control.Somehow I managed to hit a long, straightdrive off the eighteenth tee down the fairwaylined with people from tee to the greenwaiting to catch a glimpse of “The Shark”, justbehind me. I was very much aware that thecrowd was not there to see me.I set-up as usual for the second shot but,with my emotions racing, I lost focus. Tomy horror I screamed a low, wild shot rightinto the crowd, hitting an older gentlemansquarely on the shoulder. The crowd clearedand made room for me to approach my nextshot, an easy little 60 yarder I’d hit a million58 59 ASIAN GOLF

GAME IMPROVEMENTISSUE 175 APRIL 2015The small,almond-shapedpart of your brain calledthe amygdala is thetroublemaker, pushingyou around on the golfcourse and causing youto lose your cool.”times. What was supposed to be a simplelittle shot onto the green careened out overto the other side and into the grandstand,hitting a middle-aged lady in the leg.“Are you done, mate?” one fan screamedat me from the top of the grandstand as thecrowd’s hero came into view. I took my dropand made five more clumsy shots beforethe agony ended.Can You Keep it Together?How many times have you heard broadcasterssay during a golf tournament, “If Tiger orPhil or Stacey or Michelle can control his (orher) emotions today, they can win this event.”That applies to you and me too: If you don’tcontrol your emotions, you won’t win.If, too often, you find that you can’t,you can blame it on the fact that you arewalking around the golf course with a brainthat hasn’t made significant advancementin 10,000 years!When survival was the every-day priorityand reacting to threats was a constantreality, this brain was a caveman’s bestfriend. But you’re a golfer, not a caveman,and your brain can’t differentiate betweena life-threatening situation and a four-footputt for par and your best score of the year.The small, almond-shaped part of yourbrain called the amygdala is the troublemaker,pushing you around on the golfcourse and causing you to lose your cool.Even if you play like Rory McIlroy on onehole, an amygdala hijack can make you playlike Charles Barkley on the next.When the amygdala hijacks your brainand your emotions override your neocortex—thethinking, rational part of yourbrain—to respond to the threat, your abilityto reason and think logically are reduced.Your working memory becomes less efficientwhile your blood pressure, adrenalineand hormone levels rise. It can take 3to 4 hours for the chemicals to clear yoursystem, with the possibility of more hijacksbeing triggered along the way, during theexact period of time it takes to play a typicalround of golf.So an almond-sized piece of your braincan undo all of your preparation and sabotageyour (and my) golf score.Overcoming the Brain HijackMost of us need help to identify our triggersfor an amygdala hijack and to develop strategiesto overcome the resulting surge ofhormones that reduce control of our mood,motivation and fear. At one point in my professionalgolf career, I had the kind of helpthat could have turned my game around. Ididn’t realize its importance at the time.It was at a tournament in Victoria, BritishColumbia, Canada. A caddie I’ll call Brian—which happens to be an anagram for theword “brain”—was assigned to me. As soonas I met him, I knew there was somethingdifferent about this caddie.Brian could tell I was frustrated from along, unsuccessful year, and there were allsorts of things bothering me on the golfcourse—most of them beyond my control.When I would get in a bit of trouble, or startranting and raving about something I coulddo nothing about, his calm voice wouldpoint out the futility of complaining aboutthe weather, the state of the rough, a poorlie, and get me to focus on my routine andmy game.Brian made a point of getting to knowme. When I started to dip emotionally aftera poor shot or a bad bounce, Brian remindedme that things would balance out andthat I needed to keep moving forward. Helearned about my habits and my character,and he had some useful things to say whenI needed help. I can remember very clearlywhat Brian said to me on the first holeduring the last round. “Just play like JohnHaime and you’ll be fine!”That week was my best result of theyear. I started with reasonable scores of 71and 68 in the first two rounds, to get intogood position in the tournament. I slippedto a 73 in the third round. But before thefinal round, Brian inspired me on thepractice tee with some insightful commentsabout what he thought had happened theday before. I went on to finish the tournamentwith my best round, a 67.I never saw Brian again after that week,and my golf game continued the downwardslide I had created. But the lessons of thatweek in Victoria stayed with me, teachingme that emotions run the show in golf.Jack Nicklaus, the greatest player ofall-time, says that golf is about emotions andadjustments. Brian understood my emotionsand helped me make the adjustments—tomy emotions, thoughts and game—thatwould enable me to play at my best.How Do You Fare withEmotional Golf Hazards?How would you have done in my place thatday on the course with Greg Norman at yourheels and the crowd anxious and excited to see him?New York Times science writer Daniel Golemanand others have proven that intelligenceabout emotions is twice as important as technicalcompetence and IQ combined in determiningwhether someone’s performance will be average oroutstanding.Emotional Control is Likea Muscle You Can BuildThousands of young elite golfers and coaches worldwideare building emotional muscle and seeingresults in their golf game—and in all parts of theirlives. PGA and LPGA Tour Coach Steve Bann has hadimpressive results with his students using tools likethe Emotional Intelligence Sports Inventory (ESi). Hesays, “Both Stuart Appleby and Nick Flanagan hadimmediate tournament success as a result of implementingthe recommended strategies after takingthe assessment to measure their emotional muscle.”So what’s keeping you out of the golf “zone”?You know that you play better when you “playwithin yourself” or play within your own “zone” asexperts call it. So, if you know this, what’s keepingyou out of the zone so much of the time?Why is it that, when you hit the ball great on thepractice tee and leave with a feeling of “I can do this,”jitters and fear set in when you are arrive at the firsttee? Why, when you hit a poor shot do the negativefeelings stay with you for 3, 9 or even 18 holes? Thereare many examples of emotional hazards you needto be able to navigate in your golf game.A lack of awareness can push you to do thingsyou can’t do in your game. How many times haveyou tried to do things on a golf course you knowyou can’t do—but tried them anyway and endedup frustrated and frazzled?Your Keys to BuildingEmotional MuscleEmotions are the engine in the vehicle of performance,and the skills associated with buildingemotional muscle are indispensable to achievingcompetitive advantage for golfers.If you want to enjoy the game more, activateyour potential to bring your game to the next level,and be more effective in everything you do, spendABOUT JOHN HAIMEsome time building your emotional muscles.While emotional muscle is built with time andpractice, here are a few simple keys to get youstarted:1. KNOW YOU! It is normal for a golfer who slicesthe ball to stand up on the first tee with water onthe right and start the day with a wet ball! Clearlyunderstand your own strengths, limitations and triggersin the game. What do you do well, what is notso comfortable for you, and what bothers you andtriggers a negative reaction?2. CREATE YOUR OWN EMOTIONAL CAD-DIE. The most important voice in golf—andyour life—is your own. Golfers can get personalwith their own self-criticism. Instead of critiquingperformance, you may choose to attack yourselfpersonally with negative comments. Thisstirs negative emotion. Everyone knows howa great, supportive caddie, like Brian, whohelped me in Canada, can help your game.You need to create your own EmotionalCaddie to go everywhere with you.This voice inside you must be shapedto be your biggest supporter.3. DOUSE THE FLAMES WHEN ITGETS HOT. Tame the amygdala withthe 90-second rule. The ability to noticewhat’s going on as it arises, and to slowdown before you respond, is a crucialemotional skill. Brain experts tell usyou have about 90 seconds beforeemotion really bubbles up. So,when you feel the emotion building,step back, take a breath andgive yourself a 90-second window.This awareness will help you controlyour feelings and soften them beforethey damage your game or your life.4. STAY IN THE MOMENT TO STAYCALM. The future and past are distractionsfor you and stir emotion. Unfortunately,on the golf course there is little youcan do about either one. Your destiny liesin the present moment. While the future iswhere your goals and achievements live, youachieve them through playing in the present.John Haime is a world-class specialist in the area of performance and oneof the world’s leading authorities in Emotional Intelligence as it relatesto performance in sport. He is the Author of You Are a Contender! BuildEmotional Muscle to Perform Better and Achieve More … in Business,Sports and Life – a bestseller in the U.S. and Canada.60 61 ASIAN GOLF

GAME IMPROVEMENT Black Hat Golf TipsISSUE 175 APRIL 2015It’s hot and Thailand, once again, iscelebrating Songkran Festival! Anabsolutely fun and exciting traditionof splashing water on each other.Think about it…over 60 millionwater and splashing it at each other!I’ve always liked this tradition becauseit serves two basic purposes. It’ssimple to do and the body becomescool!With that said, I’ve had manymessages from students that still use thebucket drill as a reminder on how to improvetheir golf swing!With the Masters being played thismonth at Augusta National, I would like toencourage golfers to “Master” the simpleteachings of the bucket of water! It canmost definitely improve your golf game!Here’s how.Players are always enthused by the ideathat learning the game of golf can be simplified.They immediately connect the ideaof “simple” with success and faster learning.Helping them see the continuity betweenABOUT TONY MEECHAIputting, chipping, and the full swing is a bigstep toward simplification.When we toss a bucket of water, itteaches the golfer two simple lessons.Firstly, when holding the bucket at anaddress position, the body is normally setup naturally. The player doesn’t stand toowide or too narrow. The bucket is in a verynatural position. Taking this understandingwith a golf club in hand, it’s very importantto hold the club in a natural position withoutstanding too wide or too narrow. Keepit simple and natural!Secondly, when moving the bucketfrom right to left, the brain is focused on thebucket and moving the inanimate objectbackwards and forwards. The bucket is in anatural finish position that allows the waterto be splashed towards the target. With agolf club, it’s no different.It is very helpful for a player to conceiveof the swing as a motion that is circular andtravels around them versus a motion thatgoes “up” on the backswing and “down”on the forward swing. We want a golferto understand that the backswing and theforward swing is part of a circular motionjust like when we toss a bucket of water.If you can M-A-S-T-E-R this understandingand apply it to your golf swing motionwith a golf club, you will avoid many hittingproblems.I highly suggest you become moreaware of your swinging motion and focuson swinging the club to the target like youwould when tossing a bucket of water!Trust me! Your golf game will improvein no time!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 golfindustry when aged 15 and competed in various Mini Tour and PGA Tour qualifiers after turning professional in 1994. Armed with a Bachelor’sdegree in Business Administration from New Mexico State University and a degree in Marketing and Professional Golf Management, he hasmade a name for himself in Asia over the past decade, during which time he has served as Director of Instruction at Thailand’s Heartland GolfSchools and Springfield Royal Country Club as well as presenting tips on numerous region-wide golf television shows. Recently, he founded theTony Meechai Golf Academy that combines a curriculum including academics and golf education for aspiring Tour professionals. Programmesare in conjunction with international institutions throughout the world. For further information, please visit www.tmggroupasia.com oremail to tony@tmggroupasia.comwww.tmggroupasia.com62 63 ASIAN GOLF

GAME IMPROVEMENTPro Tour Golf CollegeISSUE 175 APRIL 2015THE 4 GOLF SUCCESS FACTORSThat Will Fast-Track High Schooland College Golfers to the Pro Tour(PART 4)Over the past few weeks we have discussed at length theimportance of developing the following characteristics togive you the best chance possible of becoming a successfulprofessional golfer; Your self-belief and confidence Your high pay-off golf skills The zero point formulaDavid Milne (left) and Lawrie Montague (right).Now we arrive at the last factor, the factor that truly determines whetheryou will be able to make it to the professional golf tour and stay there.But before we get to it, let me share with you a powerful and true story toset the stage.The Tour Golfer Who Won’t Give UpImagine that you are 21 years old and fresh out of college and you have yourheart set on going to PGA Tour qualifying school because like many younggolfers you have dreamed of one day playing for pay on the big stage with theworld’s best.And like many golfers before you with a similar motivation, you decideto enter qualifying school and go through the rigorous qualifying process toattempt to earn your card to play on the PGA Tour.Justin Peters exemplifies the mental toughness and grit you need mmAnd just like many golfers before you,you don’t get through the qualifying processto final stage.No big deal though, as many tell youthat it’s doubtful that you gain your card inyour first or even your second attempt. Youknow you are a good enough player andyou feel that it’s only a matter of time beforeyou earn your card to play on a major tour.So you decide to play on the pay to playmini tours to gain the valuable tournamentexperience that you need, and you achievequite a bit of early success.In fact you even win the inauguralreality show The Big Break on the The GolfChannel, so your future in golf looks brightfor you.You go back to tour school again confidentin the knowledge that you can getthrough, but again you fail to get to the finalstage and the chance to earn your tour card.Undeterred, you spend more time playingvarious mini tours and you start to playsome excellent golf, you start to contendmore often in mini tour events, and you alsowin some of them.Tour school rolls around once again andyou enter more confident in the knowledgethat you can get through this time, but onceagain you fail to make it to last stage.Now this process goes on one year afteranother and finally after 10 years of tryingto qualify, you finally get through to finalstage, and then you play well enough to secureyour card to play on the Web.Com Tour.Finally you are now off and running.Now you have your chance to get yourticket to the PGA Tour. You just need toplay well enough over a season on theWeb.Com Tour.You play in 23 Web.Com tournamentsand you make the cut in 15, pretty good foryour first year out, and you earn just shy of72,000 dollars for the season, but its not goodenough to get your ticket to the PGA Tour.You are reasonably happy with your effort,but you know that you will have to do alot better the next season if you want to getonto to the PGA Tour.But you don’t.You play in 11 Web.Com tournamentsthe following season and you make just onecut, so its back to the mini tours for you.Disappointed but not deterred, youkeep developing your skills with the help ofyour instructor to lower your score average,and also get your game ready for anothercrack at tour school when it comes around.The time arrives and you enter tourschool again, and yet once more you fail toget to final stage, and the chance to gainyour card, so you go back to the mini tours,and also enter the Monday qualifiers to tryto get back onto the Web.Com tour.Now all the way along this journey yourgolf scores have been getting better, you arescoring lower more often, and you are winningmore mini tour events, predominantlyon the GOLFSlinger.com tour.You also successfully pre-qualify a numberof times through Monday qualifyingtournaments to play some Web.Com andPGA Tour events.Finally you have some hard earned successby qualifying to play on the PGA Tour64 65 ASIAN GOLF

GAME IMPROVEMENTPro Tour Golf CollegeISSUE 175 APRIL 2015Justin Petersof Canada, but yet again you face another setbackas you play 11 tournaments on that tour,but make the cut in just 5 events and youearn fewer than 4,000 dollars for your effort.Now at this stage it would be easy to listento all of the detractors and critics sittingon the sidelines telling you to give up onyour dream, and to go get a real job.But you simply will not entertain thethought of giving up on your dream becauseyou know that deep down inside that youare good enough, and you know that yourtime will come.Tour school comes around again and historyup to this point of time shows that youare now 37 years old, and you have beento PGA Tour and Web.Com Tour QualifyingSchool a total of 16 times, and up to thispoint of time you’ve made it to final stagejust once.But you have one thing going for youthat many of the younger inexperiencedcompetitors don’t; you have loads of professionaltournament experience, and tons ofdetermination.You play well through the qualifyingstages and you finally make it to the finalstage of tour school, and you are remindedthat is only the second time in your careerthat you have achieved this feat.But you are confident, calm, focused andvery experienced, and so you set your sightsboldly on a top 10 finish in the final stage.After five rounds you sit at 10 under parand tied for 18th going into the final round,and you know that it would be easy to getahead of yourself and imagine yourself witha card to play on the Web.Com Tour.But you won’t fall for this type of thinkingbecause you recognize from all your experiencethat the key to success when in thisposition is to stick to your process and justplay each shot based on its merit.And that’s just what you do, and after 16attempts and only two times making it tofinal stage you earn the right to play onceagain on the Web.Com Tour in 2015, shootinga final round of 3 under par 68 to finish in atie for 11th place, just outside your top 10target, but a fantastic effort just the same.After thousands of golf shots playedat golf courses all over the country, manythousands of dollars spent on the qualifyingprocess, and thousands of hours of practiceyou make it back to the Web.Com Tour andget another chance to get to the PGA Tour.Justin Peters proved at the 2014 Web.Com Tour School that with loads of grit,determination, skill and experience youcan achieve goals that seem out of reach orunconquerable.Keep in mind that there are many finegolfers just like Justin Peters playing the minitours who are trying to play well enough tomake it the PGA Tour.Justin just keeps finding ways to keepturning up to play.You can visit Justin’s blog to find outmore about him and his fascinating career atwww.justinpetersgolf.comGolf Success Factor 4. Just Keep TurningUp to PlayJustin Peters exemplifies the type ofcharacter you need to become to become asuccessful professional golfer.You simply have to have a ton of determinationto keep turning up to play golf atthe pro level, and to ultimately succeed at it.Very few young golfers get straight tothe main tour and achieve the level of successthat Jordan Spieth or Lydia Ko have soearly in their careers.For most, you will have to play in thesmaller lower tier tournaments gaining valuabletournament experience to develop yourself-belief and confidence, and you mustkeep developing your high pay-off golf skills.To keep turning up to play tournamentsyou have to have at least one clearly definedgoal. Justin Peters wanted to get onto theWeb.Com Tour first and foremost, and thenplay well enough to get to the PGA Tour.He has a big reason to keep him movingforwards with his game, even with lots ofsetbacks.And you will as well.Very few high school and college golferswe have observed have the amount ofgrit and determination that Justin Petersdisplays, but you can develop some.So what are the lessons you can takeaway from this story to help you to developyour grit and determination so you can keepturning up to play?kept moving forward. When youhave a set-back it is very easy tostew over it, but thisgets you nowhere.You need to developyour positiveself-talk so you canmanage the negativethoughts and voicesthat can fill your mindwith doubt.Talk about what youwill do, NOT what you willavoid doing. Focus onpositive thoughts ofsuccessfully achievingyour outcomes,and let the wordsthat come fromyour mouth alwaysbe supportiveof your efforts.Lastly avoid hanging around negativegolfers.Break the JourneyUp into Small StepsLast ThoughtsEvery high school and college golfer thatachieved their goal of making it to amajor golf tour was once where youare now. Most won’t make it, but thenagain, most won’t keep finding ways toimprove.And that is the key to your golf success;never stop finding ways to improve yourselfand your game, and just keep turning upto play.Because if you just keep knocking at thedoor of success for long enough, one day itwill open for you.Lawrie Montague and David Milne- Pro Tour Golf CollegeTurn Failure Into a LessonYou will have many set-backs along theway, no golfer is exempt from them. Youneed to develop the mind-set that failureis simply feedback and that something inyour game is deficient and needs morework to achieve better outcomes.After facing a set-back take the timeto define the specific area of your gamethat most likely influenced the result youachieved, and do something about it.Get Over it and Get On With itJustin Peters had lots of set-backs but heThe key to making progress in golf is tohave lots of small specific goals that helpyou get through each day. If your big goalis to make it onto a professional tour, theneveryday focus on mastering the skills, andthe behaviors that will help you to achievethis.Become great at isolating each skillprocess and practice it with the attitudethat it is the only thing that matters to you.This will teach you to stay focused on theprocess of improvement, and to not getahead of yourself or reflect on past poorefforts.66 67 ASIAN GOLFDo you have many of these traits? You need them all if you want to make a career for yourself on the pro tour

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