Golf Msia January 2020

Remains

Tiger Woods

I’ve had the most amazing experience with these
gentlemen here. We did this as a team, we did this
together. We’ve come up against a very formidable
International team and to do it on this special golf
course under these conditions was an amazing
experience.

Warren Little-Getty Images Tiger Woods and his United for the bulk of this group last year in
France.
States team tied the biggest Singles
haul in Presidents Cup history to Sadly for the Internationals, this was
overhaul a gallant young Internationals a tale of ‘so near but yet so far’, which
team 16-14 to retain the Cup in could be viewed as a blessing in itself
a memorable staging at Royal based on recent drubbings, most notably
Melbourne Golf Club. at Liberty National two years ago.

Down 10-8 heading into Sunday, The week promised so much
the U.S. won eight matches out of and had started so well for
a possible twelve to snatch away the Ernie Els, who, from the day of
dream from thousands on course and his announcement as skipper,
millions watching around Australia campaigned for local audiences to
and the world, craving just a second get behind the Internationals and not
Internationals victory in the event be too supportive of the star-studded
dating back to 1994. American line up that most are so
familiar with. Woods’ inclusion as
For a player with such a prolific a player would have been a blow to
and storied career as Woods, finding that cause, as there’s nothing more
a ‘first’ to add to his considerable that galleries delight in than a rare
achievements is a challenge, but chance to see him play in the flesh.
winning as a team captain in his debut
appearance in the role had the reigning Australian galleries were no
Masters champion gripped by emotion exception to this – and it was clear
in scenes reminiscent of the 18th green the largest congregations were around
at Augusta earlier last year. his matches – given Woods’ last
appearance in this country was at this
“I’ve had the most amazing event in 2011.
experience with these gentlemen here,”
Woods said. “We did this as a team, Cue the Patrick Reed ‘Shovel Gate’
we did this together. We’ve come up affair in the Bahamas and Els’ cause
against a very formidable International was instantly back on track and with
team and to do it on this special golf ample reinforcements. Following on
course under these conditions was an from fellow player condemnation of
amazing experience.” Reed’s actions, local Larrikins equipped
themselves with shovels to mock Reed’s
Woods also set new standards for exploits in shifting sand in Bahamian
a playing captain by going undefeated waste areas and engaged in a regular
in three dominant appearances out commentary with Reed around the
of a possible five, to partially erase the course right through until Sunday.
memory of an inglorious Ryder Cup

49GOLF MALAYSIA DECEMBER 2019

TOURNAMENT PRESIDENTS CUP

Even before his first shot struck on DAY ONE Fourball (Internationals 4 – Team US 1) Warren Little-Getty Images
Australian soil in Tuesday’s practice
round, Reed was greeted at the tee by Abraham Ancer and Louis Oosthuizen shake hands with Gary Woodland and Dustin Johnson, Warren Little-Getty Images
a gallery member as ‘The Excavator’, after defeating them 4&3 on the 15th green during the Fourball matches on day one.
which drew a wry smile and wave from C.T. Pan of Taiwan and Hideki Matsuyama, beat Webb Simpson and Patrick Reed 1-up.
the former Masters champion. Much
worse would lie ahead as the week Playing Captain Tiger Woods putts to
progressed with caddie and brother- defeat Marc Leishman and Joaquin
in-law Kessler Karain suspended by
the PGA TOUR for the final day after Niemann 4&3 on the 15th green. His
shoving a spectator who had crossed partner was Justin Thomas.
the line with aggressive vitriol aimed at
his player.

Faced with a depressingly routine
pattern of poor starts that have set the
scene for loss after loss, Els needed a
response from his team, in what has
been their Achilles heel over time –
the opening Fourball and Foursomes
matches. In 2017, the Americans
annihilated the Internationals to
lead 8-2 before the weekend and in
a bid to turn this around, Els and
his support team left no statistical or
course knowledge stone unturned in a
meticulous preparation.

At the end of the first day, a 4-1
lead would have been more than Els
could have imagined. Splitting the
points in the Friday Foursomes, despite
a late surge by the Americans who
birdied the final hole in two matches to
claw back crucial ½ points, would have
inspired confidence that this could
finally be the drought-breaking year.

The weekend’s 36-holes of
Fourballs and Foursomes would always
be a critical juncture in this contest and
a test of whether the Internationals
would sustain their encouraging
start. Winning the Saturday morning
Fourballs 2.5 – 1.5 suggested they
could, but a turning of the tide for
the United States in the afternoon
Foursomes would be something Els
and his captains would have been
expecting. They were not disappointed.

Although the U.S. team won the
afternoon to trim the overall lead
to 10-8, there were some amazing
matches and gripping scenes that had
the enormous crowds in raptures.

The Leishman/Ancer pairing’s
performance in halving their match on
the final green against Rickie Fowler
and Justin Thomas underlined the

50 GOLF MALAYSIA DECEMBER 2019

DAY TWO Foursomes (Internationals 6½ – Team US 3½)

Quinn Rooney-Getty Images
Quinn Rooney-Getty Images

Rob Carr-Getty Images

Abraham Ancer and Marc Leishman beat Patrick Adam Scott and Louis Oosthuizen celebrate defeating
Reed and Webb Simpson 3&2. Dustin Johnson and Matt Kuchar 3&2 during the Friday
Foursome matches.

Adam Scott and An Byeong- Rob Carr-Getty Images
Hun celebrate after defeating Warren Little-Getty Images
Bryson DeChambeau and
Tony Finau 2&1 on the 17th
green.

Im Sung-Jae and Adam Hadwin beat Patrick Woods and Justin Thomas celebrate defeating An and Matsuyama 1-up on the 18th green.
Cantlay and Xander Schauffele 1-up.
51GOLF MALAYSIA DECEMBER 2019

TOURNAMENT PRESIDENTS CUP

difference in this Internationals team DAY THREE Fourball (Internationals 9 – Team US 5) Warren Little-Getty Images
to those of recent past. Down by five Foursomes (Internationals 10 – Team US 8)
through the opening 10 holes, but
buoyed by vociferous crowd support Captain Ernie Els talks to Matsuyama and C.T. Pan during the third day’s Fourball matches.
throughout, the pair showed amazing They beat Webb Simpson and Patrick Reed 5&3.
fortitude to surge back into the match
and snatch the most unlikely of Quinn Rooney-Getty Images
half points when the American duo
bogeyed the final hole. Rob Carr-Getty Images

Earlier, the Americans had cut the Abraham Ancer celebrates after he and Im Sung- Justin Thomas and Rickie Fowler beat Li Hao-
four point deficit in half with victories Jae defeated Xander Schauffele and Patrick Tong and Marc Leishman 3&2.
to Dustin Johnson and Gary Woodland Cantlay 3&2 during the Fourball matches.
and Xander Schauffele and Patrick
Cantlay, who ran the tables with seven
birdies to down Cameron Smith and
Im Sung-Jae 2/1.

All attention then turned to the
last match out on course with Joaquin
Niemann and Ben An fighting tooth
and nail with Matt Kuchar and Tony
Finau. The International pair had
never led in the match at any point, but
birdied the 14th and 15th to square the
match. The combatants could not be
separated, halving the match despite
some dramatic scenes with both teams
missing short birdie putts at the 18th.

The two-point margin in their
favour was just the third occasion an
International team had taken a lead
into a final day. “We had set a target
of 10 points by Saturday night, so
that’s why we were so happy at the end
of that day, even though we lost the
Foursomes,” Els would say later.

Having won three of the past four
Singles rubbers – albeit from desperate
positions where overall victory was
virtually impossible – the Internationals
had a little history on their side in a sea
of statistics that have overwhelmingly
been dominated by the Americans.

While it’s hard to pinpoint a weak
link in the American line-up, leading
off on Sunday with captain Woods,
Tony Finau, Patrick Reed and Dustin
Johnson certainly looked like a plan
to stack the front end to try to make
the leaderboard bleed red and create
positivity and momentum for the
remainder of the team.

That they did, with Woods
becoming the winningest American
Presidents Cup player with his sublime
seven-birdie 3&2 victory over a
courageous Abraham Ancer.

52 GOLF MALAYSIA DECEMBER 2019

Warren Little-Getty Images

Gary Woodland celebrates on the 12th green as Dustin Johnson and Adam Scott look on.
They beat Scott and Oosthuizen 2&1 in the afternoon Foursomes.

Quinn Rooney-Getty Images

Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele beat Im Sung-Jae and Rob Carr-Getty Images Tony Finau teamed with Matt Kuchar to
Cameron Smith in the Foursome matches. tie with Niemann and An in the Foursomes.

53GOLF MALAYSIA DECEMBER 2019

TOURNAMENT PRESIDENTS CUP

‘Captain America’ Reed, with DAY FOURThe loss of world number one
replacement caddie on the bag,
added to his considerable matchplay Brooks Koepka at short notice
gravitas with a 4&2 win over C.T. might, on paper, appear to have SINGLES (Internationals 14 – Team US 16)
Pan, while Johnson accounted for
the out of sorts Li Hao-Tong 4&3 been a huge blow, but his loss was
with his own seven-birdie barrage.
seamlessly filled by Rickie Fowler. Matt Kuchar reacts after going
“We threw Patrick out there and Facing an away game is always a 1-up over Louis Oosthuizen on
he was 6-up and I think anyone challenge, but the Patrick Reed the 17th green to secure the final
looking at that, kind of got very affair that festered on throughout half point need for the U.S. team
excited,” assistant Fred Couples said. to win.
“I know Dustin got 4-up (too). But
Xander (Schauffele) to beat Adam the week can’t have been helpful,
Scott on a course that he plays very
well was really a huge point.” despite Woods’ statements to the

Equally huge was the half point contrary.
Finau was able to snatch from
Hideki Matsuyama, building on the The situation certainly provided
momentum the rest of the American
team were now starting to ride. The ample ammunition for the local
Japanese star was streaking away
with a four-hole lead after 10 holes, galleries to take Reed to task for his
however, Finau found a hot hand
late to birdie five of the remaining indiscretions and until his final day
eight holes to square the match.
victory, Reed had gone winless in
“I knew I couldn’t give up on my
team mates and my captains and I three team matches earlier in the
know everybody on this team felt
the same way,” Finau said of his week.
comeback.
Gallant as they have been until
Im Sung-Jae and Australian
Cameron Smith had days they’ll the last few hours of this contest, 2
tell their grandchildren about,
defeating U.S. Open champion Gary wins out of 12 Singles matches is Daniel Pockett-Getty Images
Woodland and the red-hot Justin Daniel Pockett-Getty Images
Thomas respectively, although by the the cruel mathematical truth that
time Smith accounted for Thomas at
the 17th, the Internationals needed will haunted the Internationals long
to win the two remaining matches on
course to, at best, share the Cup with after the dust had settled on Royal
the rampant Americans.
Melbourne.
Matt Kuchar ensured those
aspirations were short-lived by While his rookies contributed
birdieing the 17th to guarantee he
would at least halve his match with 11 of their 14 points in a sterling
Louis Oosthuizen – ensuring the
U.S. would win back the Presidents display, it was a deflated group that
Cup once again.
fronted the media with their most
The realisation the work invested
in this outcome had paid off was experienced player Adam Scott
too much for Woods, who shed tears
of joy with the team entourage and noting that despite the positives of
players. And hats off to them for
being able to overcome the multiple the week, which had galvanised
challenges posed on and off the golf
course to claim their 11th Cup. his intent to do all he could to be

back again in 2021, “It’s hard to Captain Ernie Els and Hideki Matsuyama bump fists on
digest at the moment, it’s very the first hole during the Singles matches. Matsuyama
disappointing.” tied with Tony Finau.

The tears streaming down the

face of Liesl Els as she watched her

husband put on a brave face, shows

how invested not only the players are

in this contest, but their families and

support networks behind the scenes.

That said, Els was already

looking forward to the future and did

not rule out a potential return bout

with Tiger Woods at Quail Hollow

in 2021.

“It’s going to be tough to

swallow, but we do have a great

sense of humour in our team. It

won’t be long before you see the

music or hear the music playing in

our team room.

“Nobody died out there. It was

a sport and we gave it our all. So, so Cameron Smith celebrates, after defeating Justin
be it.” Thomas 2&1 in the Singles matches.

54 GOLF MALAYSIA DECEMBER 2019

Daniel Pockett-Getty Images RESULTS:

INTERNATIONALS – 14 • Team US – 16

DAY ONE
Fourball: Internationals – 4 • Team US – 1

Joaquin Niemann 4&3 Tiger Woods
Marc Leishman Justin Thomas

Im Sung-Jae 1-up Patrick Cantlay
Adam Hadwin Xander Schauffele

An Byeong Hun 2&1 Tony Finau
Adam Scott Bryson DeChambeau

C.T. Pan 1-up Patrick Reed
Hideki Matsuyama Webb Simpson

Louis Oosthuizen 4&3 Gary Woodland
Abraham Ancer Dustin Johnson

DAY TWO
Foursomes: Internationals – 6½ • Team US – 3½

Rob Carr-Getty ImagesWebb Simpson shakes hands with An Byeong-Hun, after defeating him 2&1 during the Adam Scott 3&2 Matt Kuchar
Sunday Singles matches. Louis Oosthuizen 1-up Dustin Johnson
Joaquin Niemann 3&2 Patrick Cantlay
U.S. Playing Captain Tiger Woods and Ernie Els, Captain of the Adam Hadwin 1-up Xander Schauffele
International team, shake hands after the Singles matches were completed Abraham Ancer Tied Patrick Reed
and the US team retained the cup. Marc Leishman Webb Simpson
Tiger Woods and the United States team celebrate with the cup after they defeated the Hideki Matsuyama Tiger Woods
Internationals 16-14. An Byeong Hun Justin Thomas
Cameron Smith Rickie Fowler
Im Sung-Jae Gary Woodland

DAY THREE
Fourball: Internationals – 9 • Team US – 5

Li Hao-Tong 3&2 Rickie Fowler
Marc Leishman Justin Thomas

Abraham Ancer 3&2 Patrick Cantlay
Im Sung-Jae Xander Schauffele

C.T. Pan 5&3 Webb Simpson
Hideki Matsuyama Patrick Reed

An Byeong Hun Tied Tony Finau
Adam Scott Matt Kuchar

Foursomes: Internationals – 10 • Team US – 8

Mark Wilson – Golfplus Media Adam Scott 2&1 Gary Woodland
Louis Oosthuizen Dustin Johnson

Abraham Ancer Tied Rickie Fowler
Marc Leishman Justin Thomas

Im Sung-Jae 2&1 Patrick Cantlay
Cameron Smith Xander Schauffele

Joaquin Niemann Tied Tony Finau
An Byeong Hun Matt Kuchar

DAY FOUR
Singles: Internationals – 14 • Team US – 16

Abraham Ancer 3&2 Tiger Woods
Hideki Matsuyama Tied Tony Finau
C.T. Pan 4&2 Patrick Reed
Li Hao-Tong 4&3 Dustin Johnson
Adam Hadwin Tied Bryson DeChambeau
Im Sung-Jae 4&3 Gary Woodland
Joaquin Niemann 3&2 Patrick Cantlay
Adam Scott 2&1 Xander Schauffele
An Byeong Hun 2&1 Webb Simpson
Cameron Smith 2&1 Justin Thomas
Louis Oosthuizen Tied Matt Kuchar
Marc Leishman Tied Rickie Fowler

55GOLF MALAYSIA DECEMBER 2019

FEATURE WHAT’S IN STORE IN 2020

An Unconfident
the Men’s
Majors for
2020

By Paul Prendergast

Predicting the future outweigh the past champions
(Woods and Spieth) who cashed
is a pastime none of us are in for their 15th and 3rd Major
particularly adept at in most walks wins in that time.
of life, however, I’m prepared to
humiliate myself for the sake of In the past, I’ve tried predicting
some New Year’s reading to whet the winner of each Major based
appetites for the golf year ahead. on past performance and an
(You’re welcome!) alleged familiarity or suitability to
the host course that year. With
For the sake of the exercise only the Augusta National as a
and to reduce my susceptibility constant on the schedule, the
to ridicule, I’ll stick to the men’s ‘horses for courses’ element is
Majors rather than extend myself greatly restricted – unless a Major
into murky areas of Players happens to be headed to Torrey
Championships, WGCs and Pines or Firestone, or anywhere
FedExCup outcomes. Majors are else Tiger Woods has happened to
hard enough to predict, but no win eight times at.
need to be stabbing aimlessly in
the dark at everything. A now healthy Woods’ future
prospects and his chase for the
Unless your name has been Nicklaus 18 Major record will be
Brooks Koepka over the past an interesting discussion, but it’s
few seasons, selecting a Major the ‘Who’s next to be first?’ list
champion in any given week out that I’d like to focus on initially.
of the pool of the insanely gifted
has generally been an exercise in As mentioned, sans Koepka,
futility. recent results would suggest
that first-time winners have
Take out Koepka’s four-Major a better than average shot at
winning stretch from the mix donning a Green Jacket, supping
and first-time winners (Lowry, from a Claret Jug or juggling a
Woodland, Molinari, Garcia, Wanamaker, than not.
Willett, Reed and Thomas)

56 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Peek Ahead at

57GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

FEATURE WHAT’S IN STORE IN 2020

So, who’s due for Major No. 1?

Jon Rahm, Patrick Cantlay, Xander of the United Kingdom and Ireland, The Masters and Open Championship
Schauffele, Tommy Fleetwood, Tony the Caribbean, the desert … showcase his versatility and aside from
Finau, Hideki Matsuyama, Paul Casey the winners, he’s arguably been the
and Rickie Fowler. Fleetwood is another who has most consistent U.S. Open performer
the skills to win on either side of the in the ‘17-‘19 period.
A smattering of the new and not so Atlantic and has come desperately
new stars in the game dominate this list, close to doing so in Majors in the past It’s very hard to look past
headed by the incomparable talents of few seasons alone. these three to anyone who is more
Rahm, who has won three times in each deserving of success in 2020, but I
of the past three seasons on the biggest Of this group, however, it’s been wouldn’t discount or begrudge the
stages. In the process, he’s shown he has Schauffele who’s been logging the newly married Rickie Fowler, or a
the game to win anywhere and against most impressive Major credentials with cagy veteran like Matt Kuchar, from
anyone: in the United States, the links five Top-6 finishes over the past three catching fire either.
years. A pair of runner-up placings at

Andrew Redington/Getty Images
Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Rahm heads the list, having won three times in each Fleetwood also has
of the past three seasons on the biggest stages. the skills to win on
He’s shown he has the game to win anywhere and either side of the
against anyone in the world. Atlantic and has come
close to doing so in
Chung Sung-Jun-Getty Images Majors in the past few
seasons alone.
Schauffele has the
most impressive Major
credentials, with five
Top-6 finishes over
the past three years,
a pair of runner-up
placings and he’s been
the most consistent
U.S. Open performer
‘17-’19

Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Rickie Fowler might just put his stamp on Hideki Matsuyama is a likely prospect
a Major. and it will be exciting to see if he
accomplishes a Major victory in 2020
58 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Who’s overdue for No. 2?

There’s a long list of one-time Justin Thomas, Patrick Reed, In fact, if it wasn’t for that pesky
Major champions to choose from, Francesco Molinari and Webb Koepka, Johnson might be sitting on
consistent winners and constant Simpson. his own growing pile of Majors by
threats, despite not being able (as yet) now.
to get the job done a second time, in In Rose and Johnson, we have
one of only four opportunities they two recent world number one Thomas is far and away one
get each year. superstars who have continually of the brightest stars of the game
knocked on the door and annually today who, like a McIlroy, is almost
Of the one-time winners who are gobble up trophies all around the untouchable on full throttle. Winning
perennial (or are returning to this world. Both show no evidence of a second Major and a third in quick
status in the case of Simpson below) any downside in their game, or succession, possibly in the 2020
contenders week in, week out: motivation to add to their lone U.S. calendar year, would be of no surprise
Open victories. to anyone.
Justin Rose, Dustin Johnson,

Andrew Redington-Getty Images
Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images
Andrew Redington-Getty Images

Francesco Molinari is Italy’s great hope for Justin Thomas is one of the brightest stars Justin Rose, already a Major winner,
more Major titles. of the game, and when on form, is almost but can he make it No. 2?
untouchable, making the winning of a
second and even a third Major a possiblity

Harry How-Getty Images
Jared C. Tilton-Getty Images
Gregory Shamus-Getty Images

Patrick Reed won the 2018 Masters and is Webb Simpson won the 2012 U.S. Open and Dustin Johnson is a likely contender
mentally strong enough to add more Majors. could rise to the occasion again.. to add to his Major collection.

59GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

FEATURE WHAT’S IN STORE IN 2020

What of Woods, McIlroy, Koepka et al ?

There are few active stars in the driving the ball in the fairway and can
Top-100 in the world rankings who take advantage of the superb distance
boast three or more Major titles, all of control and creativity of his iron play.
whom are perfectly capable of adding
to their resumes: McIlroy will be close to six years
removed from his last Major win
Tiger Woods (15), Phil Mickelson when The Masters rolls around, but
(5), Rory McIlroy (4), Brooks Koepka has well and truly returned to his
(4) and Jordan Spieth (3). dominant self with four victories in
2019, clinching a second FedExCup
Woods has restored his capacity title with his win at the TOUR
to shock and awe us, despite heading Championship in Atlanta.
into his 44th year in 2020. Two years
ago, following his latest bout of back The career Grand Slam continues
surgery, he could barely move a golf to be an enormous lure every time
ball out of his shadow, but since his the Northern Irishman drives down
return, he’s won three times in huge Magnolia Lane at Augusta National,
events – headed by his magnificent but for mine, I feel this is only a matter
performance at Augusta last year. of time before he rightfully joins an
illustrious group (Nicklaus, Player,
In the right conditions and with Woods, Hogan and Sarazen) of men’s
his health and game well managed, he modern Grand Slam winners.
continues to be a threat every time he’s

Andrew Redington/Getty Images McIlroy will be close to six years
removed from his last Major win
when The Masters rolls around, but
has well and truly returned to his
dominant self with four victories
in 2019, clinching a second
FedExCup title with his win at the
TOUR Championship in Atlanta.

It’s been six years since Rory McIlroy’s Koepka didn’t play the
last Major victory, but he’s on form and his 2018 Masters due to
putting has vastly improved, opening the injury, but then erupted
door to more opportunities in 2020. months later to win
the U.S. Open and PGA
60 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020 Championships.

Brooks Koepka enjoyed a
dominant run and it could
continue into the new season.

Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images

In the right conditions and with his health
and game well managed, Tiger Woods
continues to be a threat every time he’s
driving the ball in the fairway and can
take advantage of the superb distance
control and creativity of his iron play.

I say to you, is there anyone better continuation of the recent ‘first-time the opportunity to place the Green
to watch than McIlroy when at his most winner’ conversion rate in nervously Jacket on the shoulders of the newest
sublime, especially when combined with proposing the following as 2020’s member of that exalted group in April.
the vastly improved putting touch he men’s Major champions:
has shown throughout the past year? And let’s not forget that Phil
The Masters Tournament Mickelson will line up once again
The knee injury that closed (Augusta National) – Rory McIlroy for his own shot at the career Grand
Koepka down at the back end of Slam when he returns to Winged
2019 might be a sign to some that his U.S. PGA Championship Foot and the scene of one of his most
ridiculous run of dominance in recent (TPC Harding Park) – Jon Rahm heartbreaking U.S. Open losses back in
Majors might be about to be curtailed. 2006, when a calamitous double-bogey
However, we might have forgotten U.S. Open Championship on the 72nd hole handed the trophy to
that he didn’t play the 2018 Masters (Winged Foot) – Xander Schauffele Australian, Geoff Ogilvy.
due to injury, but then erupted months
later to win the U.S. Open and PGA The Open Championship Mickelson will have turned 50 just
Championships that year. (Royal St. George’s) – Tommy days before the 2020 championship
Fleetwood and should he go on to achieve
The Floridian won’t turn 30 until his Grand Slam dream in front of
May 2020, so may I state categorically, Great stories all should any of deafening New York crowds, will also
only a fool will be writing him off. the above prevail, particularly that of become the oldest Major winner in the
McIlroy at Augusta on the back of history of the game.
So, in a bid to stop stalling and Woods’ comeback win there in 2019.
dancing around the contenders If that’s not enough to excite you
and their bona fides, I’ve gone with What a poignant moment in for the Major year ahead, I don’t know
a combination of gut feel and a history it would be should one what will.
career Grand Slam champion have

61GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

FEATURE BEST BUNKER PLAYERS IN THE GAME

MBaslatsetrers

62 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

FSraonmd The
By Ray Benedict
For some, finding sand means double trouble, yet there remains
others who simply revel in the powdery stuff, saving a bad
outcome, even snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.

The average club golfer will From the sand spraying Stephen Munday /Allsport
explosion to clean shots, players
always rue hitting his approach into have brandished their own style
a bunker and lowering his chances and technique to produce exquisite
for a good score. recoveries in a myriad of bunkers
from pot to flat sand traps.
But this never seems to be the
case for professional golfers, who in These players are never
fact thrive on the powdery stuff. We daunted by having a ball in the
marvel at the way they play those sand. Instead, they may prefer it
recoveries, making it all look easy. compared to having a risky chip
from off the green. Here we look
Some of these players have gone at players who have created a
on to make it their trade mark as name for themselves as the master
sultans of the sand, hitting majestic blasters of sand.
looking saves and even holing their
shots despite the difficulty.

63GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

FEATURE BEST BUNKER PLAYERS IN THE GAME Gary Newkirk -Allsports

Lee Trevino

They didn’t call him the “Super Mex” for nothing, given his
ability from around the green and the sand as well.

Though he credits South African legend Gary Player for
improving his technique, Trevino used his own skill and imagination
to perfect his methods and even taught Tom Watson a thing or two,
especially about going for the open faced blast from the sand, as
opposed to the hooded shot.

Trevino had little or no fear of the sand and regarded it as a
normal shot. In some cases he could pop a winner from the sand, as
he did throughout his chequered career. Even late in his touring life
he was still stellar from the sand, topping the Champions Tour stat for
sand saves in 1994.

Jeff Curry/Getty Images

David Frost

There are very few players that can be as natural from the sand as
the doughty South African David Frost. His nickname may be Frosty,
but he has hot hands that can conjure the most amazing recoveries.

Renowned golf instructor Bob Rotella in his book, “The
Unstoppable Golfer” recalls asking Frost how he could be so
consistently accurate from the sand and was told this. “I just kind of
look where I want it to go, hit it and it goes there,” he said.

Between 1985 and 2004, Frost ranked in the Top-10 for Sand
Saves nine times on the PGA TOUR. In 1990, the South African
holed an incredible bunker shot on the 72nd hole in the New Orleans
Classic to beat Greg Norman by a shot.

64 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Andrew Redington/Getty Images Ernie Els Phil Mickelson

We all know the “Big Easy” for He is like the painter on a huge canvas,
that sweet, unhurried swing that splashing out so much colour and imagination
produces results on many occasions. whenever he holds that wedge in his hands.
Similarly, he uses the same languid Lefty’s up and down talent is legendary, so much
tempo when standing in a bunker, so sometimes it’s hard for him to figure out
producing shots with the right which type of shot would suffice. He can spin,
amount of loft, spin and pace, never bump and run it, play it long or short, the sky is
far from his intended target. the limit for Mickelson.

Els has been placed in the top Perhaps the 2006 Memorial provides a peek
echelon of the Sand Saves category into his uncanny ability, where Mickelson holed
for many years, but his forte lies in from a plugged lie for birdie on the 16th hole,
the ability to call on this gift when he when most would have struggled to get the
needs it. ball out. In the 2015 Presidents Cup, he holed
a greenside bunker shot on day one and then
His sand skills were showcased in holed a 138-yarder from sand on day two.
the 2002 Open at Muirfield, where
he eventually got up and down from
sand to win a playoff. But earlier on
the final day, he played a shot that
would later be named European
Tour Shot of the Year. After finding
a hugely awkward position at the
base of a pot bunker on the 13th,
Els committed fully to an incredibly
difficult blast shot, popped the ball up
and watched it finish just a foot away.

Chi Chi Rodriguez Sean M. Haf/Getty Images
Andy Lyons /Allsport
There’s a standing joke that Rodriguez would prefer to hit his
shots into the bunker rather than the green, as not being known for
his skill with the flat stick, he would stand a better chance of getting
the ball closer to the hole than he would on the green.

When the Champions Tour was in its infancy, Rodriguez was
a regular fixture at the top of the Sand Saves stats. He led the list
in 1990 and was in the Top-10 six further times between 1988 and
1994, but it was a skill ‘Cheech’ had always possessed. He was named
Golf Magazine’s All-America sand player for 1979 and many of his
contemporaries would be quick to give his name when asked who was
the best bunker player they have seen.

65GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

FEATURE BEST BUNKER PLAYERS IN THE GAME Simon Bruty /Allsportsrt

Seve Ballesteros Harry How/Getty Images

Never doubt anyone who learned to play the shots from a beach
and later, and more famously, from a car park!

The lessons were never lost for the young Spaniard when he
began playing golf with a 3-iron on the beach at Pedrena. In his
youth, Ballesteros learned to move and manage the club and the
ball with almost imperious confidence and consummate skill.
Throughout his career he continued to enjoy demonstrating how he
could escape from deep bunkers by opening up a straight-faced club
and cutting under the ball.

He showed he could play effectively from the sand near and far.
In his 1983 Ryder Cup Singles match against Fuzzy Zoeller, the
Spaniard played a 3-wood from a fairway bunker on the 18th when
many would have chosen to blast back to the fairway with a wedge.
From 245 yards, he picked the ball cleanly, ended up just off the
putting surface and got up and down for the half.

Paul Azinger

Azinger was highly regarded as one of the best players to
perform out of greenside bunkers. The Zinger built a reputation
for playing incredible escapes from the sand despite the pressure.

The American’s PGA TOUR Sand Saves stats were
impressive and he led the rankings in 1986, 1987 and 1990.
Azinger won fame because he produced amazing sand saves
during the tense moments of a tournament.

In the 1993 Memorial, he holed out from a near-impossible
spot on the 72nd hole to win the tournament by a shot. To get
the ball close, he had to almost leave it in the sand, but he judged
it to perfection and it rolled into the cup. In the 2002 Ryder Cup,
he (and the US team) looked buried when he found sand on the
18th at the Belfry. But, somehow, he holed out to keep American
hopes alive.

66 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Gary Player Harry How/Getty Images

The Black Knight is well known for his work ethic and worked
for hours on end perfecting most parts of his game, including his
bunker shots.

There remains an amusing tale when he was practising shots
from a bunker in Texas. A person wearing a ten-gallon Stetson hat
stood watching him hole a shot from the sand, calling out to him
with a US$50 wager if he could pot another. He did so and did it
again when it went up to US$100.

While he exuded confidence from the sand each time he
played, Player left his mark for his generosity, sharing all his tricks
and inside knowledge with other players, especially his native
South Africans, many of whom credit him for improving their
performance from the soft stuff.

e
b

Tony Johnstone Luke Donald

In an earlier era on the European Tour the name Tony You may think familiarity breeds contempt, not
Johnstone would have a familiar ring to it as one of most gifted so for Donald. Put a sand iron in his hands and the
sand players. Englishman is likely to wield some magic. He looked
for a spell at the start of this decade like he was in
It wasn’t just his uncanny touch. Johnstone worked harder cruise control whenever he got into the sand.
than anybody else to perfect his strokes in sand play. “I used
to literally wear out two Ping sand irons a year,” he told Golf In 2010, 2011 and 2012 he topped the Sand Saves
Monthly. stats on the European Tour. In 2009 and 2010 he also
topped the stats on the PGA TOUR. During that
Sand Saves stats only date back to 1998 on the European period, he won the Order of Merit on both sides
Tour, at which point Johnstone was nearing the end of his career, of the Atlantic and became World No. 1.
but he topped the rankings in 1998, 1999 and 2000 and was
second in 2001 and 2002.

On the 71st hole of the 2001 Qatar Masters, Johnstone’s
tee shot caught a gust and ended up plugged in a right-hand
greenside bunker. He faced a long and testing shot with the
pressure on, popped it out and rolled the ball up to within a foot,
saving par and setting up victory.

Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images
Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

67GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

AMATEUR NEWS

• 7th Mazda Charity Golf Tournament

Mazda’s Charity Golf Tournament
– Raising Awareness, Giving Hope

Group photo of all who participated in raising funds for charity.

Bermaz Motor, the main raised RM447,550.00, thanks to the The MMF was started in 2015,
distributor for Mazda vehicles, support of generous golfers, donors jointly manage with Prima Merdu
hosted its ` for the Mazda Medicare and sponsors. The proceeds of the Sdn Bhd and in collaboration with
Fund (MMF), which aims to provide funds will be distributed to the Mazda B. Braun Avitum Renal Services,
humanitarian aid and medical relief Medicare Fund (MMF). to provide life-saving haemodialysis
to underprivileged people in Malaysia treatment for end-stage renal disease
and also actively supports charitable During the prize giving luncheon, (ESRD) patients with financial
communities, such as old folk’s homes representatives from the various constraints. There are currently 12
and orphanages through financial aid beneficiaries, Mount Miriam Cancer B. Braun’s dialysis centres operating
and charity events. Hospital in Penang, St Joseph’s Home, nationwide and eligible patients
House of Love, Pusat Jagaan OKU Nur receive subsidised haemodialysis
This year’ tournament was held and Persatuan Penjagaan Kanak–Kanak treatments. Over the past 5-years, the
at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Golf & Terencat Akal Selangor, were invited MMF has contributed RM2.4 million,
Country Club in Shah Alam, and it on stage to receive mock cheques from which has supported more than 176
received tremendous support from Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh, Bermaz Auto patients throughout Malaysia.
150 participants. The event also Berhad’s Executive Chairman.

68 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

This year, the charity tournament was held at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Golf
& Country Club in Shah Alam, and it received tremendous support from
150 participants. The event has also raised RM447,550.00, thanks to the
support of generous golfers, donors and sponsors. The proceeds of the
funds will be distributed to the Mazda Medicare Fund (MMF).

Charitable Communities supported by the MMF 1. Donation from all directors to MMF.

Charitable Communities supported by the MMF 2. Charitable Communities supported by the MMF 3.

On top of that, MMF has where it really matters – to the people aftersales service centres operated by
also supported a dozen charitable in need. Bermaz Motor and Prima Merdu.
communities, such as old folk’s homes,
orphanages, people with disabilities Bermaz also introduced the Donations to the MMF have
and Downs Syndrome children, Mazda Privilege Card (MPC) in 2018, continued to increase rapidly, thanks
through financial aid and charity which is a tie-in programme with to the benevolent contributions of
events. Charitable communities MMF, whereby all sign-up fees serve socially responsible Mazda owners, who
are carefully selected and vetted by as funds donated by Mazda owners. continue to engage with Bermaz Motor
the MMF Team to ensure that all The introduction of MPC has been through various charitable programmes
donations are put to good use. The well received with heart-warming
MMF Team consists of volunteers support for its noble cause. Aside Bermaz believes that one of the
within the Bermaz organisation; from contributing to society, owners best ways to contribute to society is by
therefore, there are no additional costs of the MPC can also enjoy a various partnering with the community, and
involved in MMF’s operations. This discounts on genuine spare parts the Mazda Medicare Fund is one of
allows all donations received, to go and official merchandise and labour their corporate social responsibility
charges at Mazda showrooms and projects that enriches the lives of those
in need.

69GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

AMATEUR NEWS

• ECCO Tour Championship

The ECCO Tour Championship is a
Shoo-in Success

ECCO, the global leader in Sahetapy shared, “We were indeed Championship 2019 were sold out
innovative comfort footwear, in really overwhelmed by the support that within a day of being publicised.”
collaboration with Transview Golf was shown in 2018 for both legs of the
Sdn Bhd, their exclusive distributor ECCO Tour Championship, at Kota Frankie Choo – Director of
in South East Asia, recently held the Permai and Horizon Hills. Therefore, Transview Golf Sdn Bhd quipped,
second edition of the ECCO Tour it was a given that we continue on “The moment we released the info
Championship at Kota Permai Golf with what we started here in Malaysia. on the ECCO Tour Championship,
& Country Club. We saw the potential in this region we were swamped with applications
back then and with our presence here almost instantly and our phones were
Carl Sahetapy, Sales Manager, in Malaysia, under the flagship of ringing off the hook – just like that,
Golf of ECCO Asia Pacific, was Transview Golf since 2012, we have our entries were filled within a day,
present to warmly welcome the indeed seen the brand grow in leaps and the fastest ever in our history! We
biggest field in the tournament’s bounds. We are delighted that so many can’t thank our ECCO brand loyalists
history – a whopping 132 players in golfers trust our brand and continue to enough for showing such great
total. show their support and were thrilled to support. In this event, as our way
discover that places in the ECCO Tour of showing our appreciation, each
Following the very successful participant received a pair of ECCO
hosting of two inaugural legs in 2018,

70 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

golf shoes as part of the gift bag and RM600, RM400 and RM200 Cheng Yet Hou, playing to
they even got to choose the selected respectively were given to the Top-5 handicap 18 on the day, clinched the
models on display and the color that finishers in both the A and B Medal B Medal title on 37 points, winning
they wanted.” categories. There were also over 80 on countback over Tan Tiong Ooh
lucky draw prizes, worth close to (19), Mohd Zahile Ismail (20) and
Out on the course, generous prizes RM50,000 for those who were not so Rajasingam Ramiah (20). James Ong,
were there for those who were up to lucky on the course. playing to handicap 15, came in fifth
the challenge. Every par-3 hole was at 36 points.
decked with a hole-in-one prize that At the end of play, the honours in
included – ECCO Products worth the A Medal category were claimed The grand lucky draw prize, the
RM5,000 at Hole 4 and Hole 17, by Chew Kek Kuen (10) when he Titoni Airliner watch worth RM3,943,
Transview Cash Vouchers worth returned with 39 stableford points. went home with Ho Kin Kia.
RM50,000 at Hole 6 and, last but not How Chon Heyong (6) took the
least, a Titoni Airliner Stainless Steel second on countback, edging his The organisers advised those
Watch worth RM3,943 at Hole 14. competitors Yap Yue Loong (9), Lim that missed out on the ECCO Tour
Chee Cheng (12) and Khoo Gee Seng, Championship this time round,
Aside from that, Transview Cash who were all on 38 points. to be on the lookout for future
Vouchers worth RM1,000, RM800, announcements for next year’s event.

71GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

AMATEUR NEWS

• Bukit Unggul Challenge Trophy

Thrills and Excitement at Inaugural
Challenge Trophy Tournament

Bukit Unggul Country Club held group photo session, on a sunny, but Champion title on 77 gross, while the
its inaugural Challenge Trophy on breezy afternoon. Heavy rain fell over Nett Champion rewards went to Jasmi
November 16, 2019 and the tournament the last three holes, but it did nothing bin Mod Noor (21) on 69.
gathered together an interesting mix to dampen the spirits of everyone
of keen golfers that comprised not only completing the challenge. May Wong, General Manager
members, but also regular guests and a of Bukit Unggul Golf & Country
number of expatriates who signed-up Using System 36/Strokeplay Club, thanked all the participants for
during their winter holiday. format, Ishak bin Imen, playing supporting the inaugural challenge
off handicap 7, emerged as overall trophy. She said, “As this is our first
The tournament saw 80 pax Champion on 77 gross. Kamal Jasin time organising this challenge trophy
tee-off after a light lunch and a bin Kassim (8), grabbed the Gross tournament, we made the playing

72 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

• Junior Clinic With Gavin Green And Friends

Gavin & Friends Give Back

Maybank Ambassador Gavin Green, along with Kim Leung Kwang, Ainil Bakar, Keegan Kam, Kenneth
Tobuse, Wilson Choo and Lim Eng Seng, spent time with more than 30 juniors, sharing tips and tricks around
the greens.

Maybank Ambassador Gavin Green, the opportunity to be guided firsthand
along with six Malaysian professional by some of the nation’s top golfers –
golfers, hosted a junior clinic for over 30 gaining invaluable insights into their
children at the Saujana Golf & Country game, as well as learning some neat tips
Club. The initiative was spearheaded by and tricks around the greens.
Malaysia’s No. 1 ranked golfer, Green,
in partnership with Maybank, with the Present to share both their time
aim of nurturing the next generation of and expertise with the youngsters were,
golfers in Malaysia. Kim Leung Kwang, Ainil Johani Bakar,
Keegan Kam, Kenneth Tobuse, Wilson
In the session, junior golfers received Choo and Lim Eng Seng.

conditions a little challenging by
placing the pins in tricky positions and
the green speed was fast, at almost 11,
during the game. We hope everyone
enjoyed the challenge and will return
to compete in next years tournament.”

The winners in each category were
well rewarded for their efforts and
just about everyone went home with a
memento of the day.

73GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

AMATEUR NEWS

• 2019 Faldo Series Japan Championship

Hosoya Holds Firm in Faldo Series Japan
Championship PlayOff

(l-r) Faldo Series Japan Championship age group winners: Nomura Kouki, Seichu Hiramoto, Motoki Hosoya, Miyu Abe and Kirina Hayashi.

Motoki Hosoya’s reputation the spirits of his opponent, who then Carlsbad, United States, as part of a
as one of Japan’s most promising produced a splendid birdie on 18 five-strong Japanese team that placed
young golfers has been enhanced to sign for a four-under-par 68, the fourth, and a seventh place finish in
with a sudden-death playoff success equal best round of the week. the Boys’ 12-14 Division in the 25th
in the 2019 Faldo Series Japan Japan Junior Golf Championship
Championship. With a 54-hole tally of two-under at Kasumigaseki Country Club in
214, Nakagawa finished level with August.
It was a gutsy performance from Hosoya, whose closing 69 included
15-year-old Hosoya, who had to six birdies. Also making the trip to Vietnam
dig deep to repel the challenge of next year as part of the Japanese
Toranosuke Nakagawa, in The R&A Both players made birdie at contingent will be Seichu Hiramoto
World Amateur Golf Ranking event the first extra hole, before Hosoya (Boys’ Under-21 winner), Nomura
that was the eighth leg of the 2019- prevailed with a par on the second Kouki (Boys’ Under-18), Miyu Abe
20 Faldo Series Asia season. playoff hole to book his passage to (Girls’ Under-21) and Kirina Hayashi
the 14th Faldo Series Asia Grand (Girls’ Under-16).
For all three rounds at Shizu Final at Laguna Lăng Cô in
Hills Country Club the duo were Danang, Central Vietnam, to be Although Abe’s attempt to retain
virtually inseparable at the top of the hosted by Sir Nick Faldo in March, her overall title at the Faldo Series
leaderboard. 2020. Japan Championship fell short, she
came from behind to top the standings
Hosoya took a one-stroke lead For Hosoya it will present an in the Girls’ Under-21 category,
into the final round and appeared opportunity to continue a good run overhauling Chikako Suzuki, Yume
within sight of the winning line when of form this year, highlighted by an Suzuki and Arina Hiraki, winner of
he extended his lead to two, with just appearance in the Aaron Baddeley the Girls’ Under-16 title at the 12th
two holes remaining. International Junior Championship Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.
at La Costa Resort & Spa in
But a Hosoya bogey at 17 raised

74 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

• 14th Faldo Series Singapore Championship

Sean Lee Sweeps to victory at the
14th Faldo Series Singapore Championship

Living up to his billing as pre- “It’s been a good two weeks for hosted by Sir Nick Faldo in March,
tournament favourite, Sean Lee me,” said the 16-year-old Singapore 2020.
proved too strong for his rivals National Squad member, who
in the 10th event of the 2019-20 attributed an upswing in fortunes to “I’m looking forward to that – and
Faldo Series Asia season, staged in a marked improvement in his short hoping to get off to a better start this
conjunction with the second leg of game. “I’ve been working on my time,” said Lee, referring to his opening
the Singapore Golf Association’s 2019 putting and it’s been paying off,” round 81 in the 13th Faldo Series Asia
HSBC Youth Golf Challenge. added Lee, after negotiating the back Grand Final. Despite bettering par in
nine in four-under 32 for the second the next two rounds, the damage had
Rounds of 72, 71 and an day in succession. been done. That he climbed into fifth
accomplished closing five-under-par place in the Boys’ Under-16 Division
67 at the National Service Resort Next on the agenda for Lee was was testament to his determination.
& Country Club’s (NSRCC) Kranji the Pondok Indah International Junior
Sanctuary Golf Course gave Lee a Championship in the Indonesian Also flying the flag for Singapore
four-stroke winning margin over Daryl capital of Jakarta, followed by a in next year’s Vietnam showpiece
Low in the overall standings and a golfing-free family break in Shanghai will be Shayne Lim (Girls’ Under-21
12-shot winning margin in the Boys’ and then preparations for the winner), Jillian Kuk (Girls’ Under-16
Under-21 category. prestigious Australian Men’s Amateur winner) and Daryl Low (Boys’ Under-
Championship at Brisbane’s Royal 16 winner).
It also completed back-to-back Queensland Golf Club in mid-
triumphs for the Anglo Chinese January. Low, runner-up to Lee in the
School (Independent) student who Under-16 segment in Singapore last
beat a strong international field Also on his radar is a return to year, signed off in style, making birdies
at the Singapore Island Country Laguna Lăng Cô in Danang, Central at the final two holes to record a 68,
Club/DBS Junior Invitational Golf Vietnam for the 14th edition of the while Lim saw off the challenge of
Championship a week prior. Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, to be Ashley Goh to take top prize among
the elder girls.

(l-r) Sean Lee, Shayne Lim, Jillian Kuk and Daryl Low.

75GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

AMATEUR NEWS

• Macalline Women’s China Open

Lin Makes History with China Open Triumph

Lin Xi-Yu

I am so proud that I can win my national Open in my home country, especially as I am
only playing a couple of tournaments [in China] a year

Lin Xi-Yu created history by years – Lin became the first mainland my LPGA Tour card and my world
becoming the first mainland China winner since the championship ranking was probably the lowest
player to win the country’s national debuted in 2006. Players from South ever. This has been a good year, but I
championship at the Macalline Korea dominated the Women’s China couldn’t think of a better result than
Women’s China Open. Open for the first 11 years, while Lee winning a tournament to finish my
Min (75) of Chinese Taipei won last season.”
The US LPGA Tour regular year.
closed with a round of even-par Xiamen native Liu Yan finished
72 for a four-under 284 total and a “I am so proud that I can win my runner-up for the second consecutive
two-stroke win. The victory for the national Open in my home country, year when she closed with a 71. Feng
23-year-old, her seventh China LPGA especially as I am only playing a Shan-Shan, the top-ranked player in
title and first win since 2015, was couple of tournaments [in China] the field, was two shots further back
worth RMB315,000. a year,” said the Guangdong native, after shooting 71 and finishing even-
who enjoyed a personal best season par for the tournament.
Similar to the history of the U.S. in the US, where she made 19 of 23
Open where it took 17 years for an cuts. Guangdong teenager Ren
American-born player to win the Yue (72) and Thai Kanphanitnan
tournament – players from England, “The last two years, I’ve been Muangkhumsakul (75) were equal
Scotland and Jersey won the first 16 through a really tough time. I lost fourth, five strokes back.

76 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

• 2019 Southeast Asian Games

Gold for Leow at SEA Games

Lin, who goes by the name of Singapore’s James Leow delivered over Thailand’s Tanapat Pichaikool.
‘Janet’, started the day with a two-shot Gold at the 2019 Southeast Asian Singapore’s National coach
lead and closed with a round that Games. He closed with a brilliant
featured four birdies and four bogeys, seven-under-par 65 at the Luisita Golf Matt Ballard said: “James showed
including one at the last. & Country Club, after staving off the impeccable discipline and composure
challenge of many of the region’s all day during a hot final round. He
“All week, if I put my real Janet best amateur players, to become the was in total control of his emotions
hat on, I will say today I am not first Singaporean to win an individual and ultimately his golf ball.”
doing my best and I have so many Gold medal for 30 years.
things to improve on,” said Lin, Singapore Golf Association (SGA)
who struggled with her putting “It is an honour to represent the High Performance Manager Joshua
throughout the championship. “My country in the first place, and to win a Ho attributed precise iron play and
weakness is still pretty obvious, but Gold medal for the country, my family mental toughness under immense
it’s winning the tournament that and friends, team-mates, coaches and pressure as key factors to setting up
counts. It means I can handle it on managers just means a lot to me,” said birdie opportunities, which Leow
course, no matter what happens. Leow, who overcame a two-shot deficit converted.
Overall, this is a really big week entering the final round.
for me in the way I handled The only other Singaporean to
everything.” His 54-hole total of 13-under 203 win individual SEA Games gold was
(68-70-65) gave him a one-shot victory Samson Gimson, who achieved the
Determined not to finish ‘runner- feat in 1989.
up again’, 21-year-old Liu began
strongly in front of her home crowd James Leow
with consecutive birdies, before
dropping four strokes in a three-hole It is an honour to represent the country in the first
spell that left her facing an uphill place, and to win a Gold medal for the country,
struggle. my family and friends, team-mates, coaches and
managers just means a lot to me.
Feng also started with
consecutive birdies after starting
five shots back. However, she could
not mount a challenge and was left
to shower praise on her triumphant
compatriot.

“It’s time for us to win
the Women’s China Open.
Congratulations to Xi-Yu. It’s not
been easy for her the past two
years, but she was really excellent
this year. She kept her [LPGA]
card and now she has been to the
winner’s club again. It’s great for
Chinese golf.”

Zhang Wei-Wei won the China
LPGA Tour Order of Merit on the
strength of a record four wins on
the season. The Hubei native closed
with a 76 to finish equal 21st at
the championship. “It’s the highest
honour on this Tour. I am really
happy to earn it,” said the 22-year-
old.

77GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

XXIO Unveils Latest Ranges

Hidekazu Tagashira, Managing The complete range, inclusive of
Director, Srixon Sports Asia, XXIO drivers, fairway woods, hybrids,
unveiled the latest range of XXIO irons and golf balls, will be released
clubs, the 11th generation, XXIO into stores in January 2020.
ELEVEN and XXIO X – eks, to
the Malaysian market at an official The first model of XXIO, which
launching ceremony hosted at Kota was produced in 2000, evolved under
Permai Golf & Country Club in mid the key development concepts of greater
December 2019. distance, easy swing, and exhilarating
impact sound, and has been the top

seller in the Japanese market for the past
19 years, since its release. The new 11th
generation of XXIO series redefines its
brand value to support the diversifying
golf lives of customers.

Every XXIO club in the series
features new XXIO technologies to
help a wider range of golfers hit the
ball straighter and farther with more
accuracy.

The new drivers come in two
models, the XXIO ELEVEN, which
helps golfers easily increase carry
height, and the XXIO X, pronounced
eks, which is engineered for solid
swing golfers. The suggested retail
price for each model is RM3,290.00.

The XXIO fairway woods and
hybrids also come in two models, the
XXIO ELEVEN, which delivers high
trajectory, and the XXIO X, which is
designed for solid swing golfers. The
suggested retail price is RM2,290.00
for the fairway wood and RM1,690.00
for the hybrid.

78 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Zala Springs Golf Resort
Appoints IMG in Preparation
for the International Stage

The XXIO irons, are also available Zala Springs Golf Resort in of IMG’s unique expertise and global
in both models, the XXIO ELEVEN Hungary has appointed IMG to reach with the passion, knowledge
that delivers high trajectory, and the provide management, marketing and experience of the Zala Springs
XXIO X, designed for solid swing and communications consultancy team will ensure that it delivers a truly
golfers. The suggested retail prices are services as it seeks to establish itself world class experience and receives the
RM7,840.00 for a carbon shaft and as one of Europe’s finest new golfing international recognition and success it
RM6,600.00 for a steel shaft. destinations. so clearly deserves.”

Completing the line-up are the Featuring a stunning Robert Trent Tamas Benkocs, President & CEO
XXIO ELEVEN and XXIO X Jones Jr. championship golf course of Zala Springs said, “Having already
golf balls, to be released in stores and distinctive modern clubhouse, the established ourselves as one of the
from January 11th. Both models are resort enjoys an enviable location, lying finest golf resorts in the region, the
engineered to provide greater distance within a two-hour drive of four iconic time is now right to further elevate
and straightness with the driver. European cities (Budapest, Vienna, our status. With IMG’s global brand
Zagreb and Ljubljana) and within 20 and heritage and commitment to
XXIO ELEVEN has been minutes of the beautiful Lake Balaton, quality, we are confident that they
designed for distance with a softer feel Central Europe’s largest lake and a are the right partners to support us
and “XXIO X for distance and spin. sunseeker’s and watersports paradise. with our ambitious plans and we look
While most golfers hope to increase Accommodation is provided in the forward to a rewarding and beneficial
their carry distance with a driver, even form of 32 luxurious apartments and relationship”
if only by a yard, there are also other penthouse suites, and an extensive
demands, “to control the ball by spin wellness centre is set to open in Spring IMG is a global leader in the
on iron shots” or “to increase the 2020. design, development, marketing and
carry distance with high trajectory.” management of world class golf
XXIO ELEVEN and XXIO X are Russell Hannah, Senior Director courses. For more than 25 years, the
built to satisfy a wide range of golfers of Golf at IMG commented; “Zala company has set the standard for
with different play styles. Springs has all the attributes required excellence in golf course design and
to become a truly iconic golfing venue golf club management and currently
Prior to a golf game for the media and we are delighted that it has joined provides management and marketing
and dealers, Srixon announced a number our growing portfolio of world class services to over 20 award winning
of special promotions that will see golfing properties. The combination clubs and resorts.
buyers receiving XXIO travel covers,
carry-on luggage, duffle bags, shoe bags,
pouches and in an exclusive tie-up, the
opportunity to win a trip to see Srixon
brand ambassador, Shane Lowry,
attempt to defend his British Open title at
Royal St George’s Golf Club.

79GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Pun Hlaing Named Myanmar’s Best Golf Course

Gary Player-designed course in Yangon takes top prize.

“Of the many golf courses I palm tree-lined fairways and water Bar. Furnished in low leather seats,
have seen in the world, Pun Hlaing hazards, the icing on the cake the lounge is a thinking man’s oasis
Golf Club has to be in the Top-5. It being the final hole, the 18th, where one can smoke and drink in
reminds me of Augusta, Georgia.” So with its island green fronting the uninhibited fashion, while watching
said golfing legend Gary Player back clubhouse. the action on the 18th. To accompany
in 2002. Of course, he may have a fine selection of Scotch whiskies and
been patting himself on the back Overlooking the 18th and with cognacs, the discerning guest may
when he said it – for it was Player vistas of several other holes is Pun opt for a smooth BLV Royal Corona
who personally designed the par-72 Hlaing’s sister hotel, the 4-star cigar or a Magnum 46, two of Cuba’s
course two years earlier in the leafy Awei Metta, which opened in finest.
suburbs of Yangon. December 2018. The chic business
and leisure resort also won a design All 46 suites at the five-story
However, the South African award recently – as Best Resort Awei Metta face the golf course.
master’s statement proved accurate, Hotel Development at the 2019 Ranging from 46m² to 95m², each
when Pun Hlaing Golf Club was Myanmar National Real Estate wood-panelled suite comes with
named “Best Course in Myanmar” at Awards in October. private balcony, office space and
the Asia Pacific Golf Awards 2019 in wide-screen TV.
New Delhi. Together, the hotel and golf course
form the foundation of a superb Awei Metta is owned by Myanmar
“Pun Hlaing is a testing course luxury retreat for golfers, business tourism trailblazers Memories
for all levels of golfer,” said club pro people, and a growing number of Group, which owns and operates
Stephen Chick. “But thanks to its tourists to Myanmar. a myriad selection of resorts and
outstanding drainage, the course is travel experiences across the country,
playable 12 months of the year, even Awei Metta offers guests a spa, including its own island in the Mergui
during the monsoons.” fitness centre, swimming pool and Archipelago with one resort, Awei
conference room, as well as one of the PIla; yachting tours; eco-lodges; and
Pun Hlaing Golf Course has city’s top restaurants, Oscar, which arguably the nation’s most iconic
hosted the Myanmar Open three specialises in French and Burmese tourist experience, the hot-air balloon
times. Known as “The Pride of cuisines. flights of Balloons Over Bagan.
Myanmar”, the 7,124-yard course
is a verdant landscape of rolling Many golfers will take a particular
shine to the hotel’s sophisticated Cigar

80 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Rolex Testimonee Jon Rahm
Crowns Season of Enduring Excellence as
2019 Race To Dubai Champion

Jon Rahm of Spain in action during the 2019 DP World Tour Championship.

Rolex Testimonee Jon Rahm has Dubai, joining Luke Donald (2010), Rahm secured the double victory
won the prestigious 2019 Race to Martin Kaymer (2011) and Francesco with rounds of 66-69-66 and an epic
Dubai crown following a season of Molinari (2018). Rahm’s sixth final round of 68 including eight
sustained excellence on the European European Tour victory also marks his birdies, marking the second occasion
Tour. fourth Rolex Series win. the 25-year-old has won the DP World
Tour Championship, having done
Culminating at the DP World Reflecting on his win, Rahm said: so in 2017, when he was also named
Tour Championship, Dubai, the final “It’s incredible. So much has been European Tour Rookie of the Year.
Rolex Series event of the year, the accomplished in just one week – it’s
Spaniard finished atop the Race to the second time I’ve won the DP Rahm’s fellow Testimonee and
Dubai Rankings presented by Rolex World [Tour Championship], my another past winner of the DP
after a phenomenal first place finish fourth Rolex Series win, the second World Tour Championship, Matthew
in the elite Top-50 field at Jumeirah of this year, and then Race to Dubai Fitzpatrick, completed his tournament
Golf Estates. champion. There’s so many great in style with an eagle on his 72nd hole,
things, I can’t really put them into helping him to an eighth Top-10 of
With highlights elsewhere during perspective yet. the European Tour season.
the season, including his second time
winning the Irish Open, another “It’s an unbelievable feeling. It’s Launched in 2017, on the 20th
Rolex Series event, and a successful great that Rolex is partnering with the anniversary of Rolex’s partnership with
title defense of the Open de España, European Tour to create this event the European Tour, the Rolex Series
Rahm becomes the fourth Rolex and to create this highlight in the showcases the highest quality golf and
Testimonee to win the Race to season.” the international spirit of the game.

81GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

New XXIO Driver

Two all-new XXIO drivers, offering power position for greater distance

New “WEIGHT PLUS”
technology enables
greater distance with
an ideal top position.

XXIO ELEVEN Driver The suggested retail price for position for greater distance” at
Dunlop Srixon Sports Asia each model is RM3,290.00. the top, delivering a faster and
Features of the New XXIO more accurate impact. During the
released its latest models of XXIO Divers test, about 70 per cent of testers
drivers, the XXIO ELEVEN and said they could feel the difference
XXIO X, pronounced eks. The The technology applied when they waggled and about
new 11th generation redefines to XXIO golf clubs enables 80 per cent, when they swung
its brand value to support greater distance and goes the club. The average distance
the diversifying golf lives of beyond improving the repulsion improved by 4 yards with the
customers. performance of the head. XXIO XXIO ELEVEN compared to the
golf clubs have evolved through previous model. “WEIGHT PLUS”
Since their first edition was research and development, technology has also been used in
released in 2000, the XXIO particularly by examining the the new lineup, XXIO X, providing
range has enjoyed an excellent swing over recent years, in order unprecedented greater distance.
reputation for their easy swing to offer a unique way to generate New “WEIGHT PLUS”
and greater distance, as well as distance that maximises the technology enables
exhilarating shot sound. In the swing power of each golfer. And greater distance with
new 11th generation of “XXIO” now, the 11th model focuses on an ideal top position.
drivers, the XXIO ELEVEN helps “Top of the Swing”. The newly
golfers easily increase carry developed original “WEIGHT “WEIGHT PLUS”
height, while the XXIO X is PLUS” technology helps maintain technology creates an
engineered for solid swing golfers. the wrist cock, while creating an ideal top position by
ideal and highly stable “power concentrating the
XXIO X, newly listed in
the lineup in addition to the
conventional regular model
“XXIO ELEVEN”, is engineered
for solid swing golfers. These
two XXIO clubs feature new XXIO
technologies to help a wider range
of golfers “hit the ball straighter
and farther with more accuracy”.

82 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

weight of the golf club on golfer’s moment of inertia and a larger
hands, thereby reducing the sweet spot.
power necessary to support the
club head during the upswing. Exclusive Design for XXIO X
The carbon composite
By reducing the shaft weight
compared to conventional structure increased the
models and embedding the newly moment of inertia when a free
developed “silicon rubber bush”, weight, generated through the
a weight wrapped with silicone combination of a low-specific-
rubber, into the grip end of the club, gravity carbon material with the
the wrist cock is maintained from sole portion, was placed at the
the start of the swing, allowing for a back. The result is a larger sweet
deeper backswing and more stable spot.
position at the top attributable to
the leverage principle. Easy at address and pleasant XXIO X – eks Driver
Head with the highest sound for every golfer.
repulsion performance in
the history of XXIO, makes For the 11th generation XXIO
shot not only stable, but also golf club, the head shape and
decisive. shot sound were adjusted to suit
Repulsion performance was each target user. XXIO ELEVEN
reinforced with “Flat Cup Face” inherited the same head shape
common to XXIO ELEVEN and and shot sound from the former
XXIO X. With the face-center XXIO. XXIO X, on the other
thinner than the former models, hand, has a deep and straight
the high initial velocity area near face that creates easy address
the center was expanded by and tight shot sound with short
72 per cent for XXIO ELEVEN reverberation to meet the needs
compared to the former models, of target users with high head
achieving a drastic increase in speed prefer.
flying distance.
Exclusive Design for XXIO • XXIO Eleven Driver Club Specs
ELEVEN Material:
Face: Titanium (Super-TIX® 51AF)
The wide area of the sole and Body: Ti-811Plus+stainless steel weight
crown portions are thinner and
lighter with the newly developed Construction
STAR FRAME structure. The Face: Forged
subsequently generated free Body: Vacuum precision casting
weight was then placed at the Finish:
back, resulting in an increase the • High-gloss metallic gradation polarised coating
• MirrorCeramic-shot+Stain+ Lazer finish
XXIO ELEVEN Grip: XXIO Eleven Original Weight Plus Full Rubber Grip (with XXIO logo)
Ladies Driver Other: XXIO Eleven Original Silicon Rubber Bushing (10g)

• XXIO X Driver Club Specs
Material:
Face: Titanium (Super-TIX® 51AF)
Body: Ti-811Plus & CFRP Carbon Fiber+stainless steel weight

Construction:
Face: Forged
Body: Vacuum precision casting
Finish:
• High-gloss metallic • Dark gray ion plating
• Mirror • Ceramic-shot • Stain+Lazer finish
Grip: XXIO X Original Weight Plus Full Rubber Grip (with XXIO logo)
Other: XXIO X Original Silicon Rubber Bushing (6g)

83GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

New XXIO Fairway Woods and Hybrids

Two line-ups to hit farther with newly developed CANNON SOLE

XXIO X – eks Hybrid

XXIO X – eks fairway wood is RM2,290.00 and “WEIGHT PLUS” technology
Fairway Wood RM1,690.00 for the hybrid. creates an ideal top position
Features of the New “XXIO” by concentrating the weight of
Dunlop Srixon Sports Asia’s Fairway Wood and Hybrid the golf club on golfer’s hands,
latest models of XXIO fairway thereby reducing the power
woods and hybrids, the XXIO Built-in technology in XXIO necessary to support the club
ELEVEN and XXIO X, pronounced clubs enables greater distance head during the upswing.
eks, are the 11th generation in the and goes beyond improving the
series. repulsion performance of the The shaft weight in the 11th
head. The 11th edition focuses generation of XXIO fairway woods
The XXIO ELEVEN delivers on “Top of the Swing”. The newly and hybrids is less than previous
high trajectory, and the XXIO X is developed original “WEIGHT models and is concentrated
designed for solid swing golfers. PLUS” technology helps maintain on the butt end of the rubber
The suggested retail price for the the wrist cock, while creating an grip. As a result, the wrist cock
ideal and highly stable “power is maintained from the start of
position for greater distance” the swing, allowing for a deeper
at the top, delivering a faster backswing and more stable
and more accurate impact. The position at the top, attributable to
average distance improved by the leverage principle.
3.8 yards with the XXIO ELEVEN Deflection and low gravity
fairway wood, and by 1.3 yards center design of the newly
with the hybrid, compared to the developed “CANNON SOLE”
former model. “WEIGHT PLUS” for greater distance.
technology is also used in the
CANNON SOLE” has an
new lineup, XXIO X, providing ultra-thin design around the face,
unprecedented greater deflecting the sole portion and
distance. delivering great distance with a
New “WEIGHT mild curve.
PLUS” technology
enables greater The cup face’s joining point of
distance with the fairway wood was extended
an ideal top by 2mm to expand the thinly
position. designed portions by 132 per
cent compared to the former
models, increasing the deflection
in the sole to improve repulsion
performance. As for the hybrid,
the joining point of its cup face
was extended by 4mm to expand
the thinly designed portions by

84 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

The XXIO ELEVEN delivers high
trajectory, and the XXIO X is
designed for solid swing golfers.

XXIO ELEVEN Ladies Fairway Wood

XXIO ELEVEN • XXIO Eleven Fairway Wood
Ladies Hybrid /Hybrid Club Specs
267 per cent compared to the
former models, deflecting the XXIO Eleven Fairway Wood
lower area of the sole with the Material:
eventual wider high repulsion Face: HT1770M
area. Body: Maraging steel
Low gravity center design Construction:
adjusted to the distribution of Face: Forged
hitting points of each golfer. Body: Lost wax precision casting
The head shape of the new Finish: • High-gloss metallic gradation polarised coating
fairway wood has a shallow • Mirror+Ceramic-shot+Stain+Lazer finish
back and thinner crown, thereby Grip: XXIO Eleven Original Weight Plus Full Rubber Grip
lowering the center of gravity
to adjust to the hitting point (with XXIO logo)
distribution of target golfers. The XXIO Eleven Hybrid
new hybrid has a flatter round Material:
sole face shape like the iron, Face: HT1770M
thereby extending the sole area Body: Maraging steel
for a lower center of gravity. Construction:
Face: Forged
XXIO ELEVEN Body: Lost wax precision casting
Fairway Wood Finish: • High-gloss metallic gradation polarised coating
• Mirror +Ceramic-shot +Stain+Lazer finish
Grip: XXIO Eleven Original Weight Plus Full Rubber Grip

(with XXIO logo)
XXIO X Fairway Wood
Material:
Face: HT1770M
Body: Maraging steel
Construction:
Face: Forged
Body: Lost wax precision casting
Finish: • High-gloss metallic+Dark gray ion plating
• Mirror+Ceramic-shot+Stain+Lazer finish
Grip: XXIO X original WEIGHT PLUS Full Rubber Grip
XXIO X Hybrid
Material:
Face: HT1770M
Body: Maraging steel
Construction:
Face: Forged
Body: Lost wax precision casting
Finish: • High-gloss metallic+Dark gray ion plating
• Mirror+Ceramic-shot+Stain+Lazer finish
Grip: XXIO X original WEIGHT PLUS Full Rubber Grip

85GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

New XXIO Irons

Two line-ups to deliver
greater distance with
deflection for a wider
range of golfers

The latest models of XXIO XXIO X – eks Iron XXIO ELEVEN Iron
irons are the 11th generation New “WEIGHT PLUS” Regarding the carbon shaft
and come in two models, the technology enables greater model, the shaft weight is less
XXIO ELEVEN, which delivers distance with an ideal top than previous models and is
high trajectory, and the “XXIO position. concentrated on the butt end
X, pronounced eks, which is of the rubber grip. As a result,
designed for solid swing golfers. “WEIGHT PLUS” technology the wrists cock is maintained
These two XXIO clubs use new creates an ideal top position from the start of the swing,
XXIO technologies to help a by concentrating the weight of allowing for a deeper backswing
wider range of golfers “hit the ball the golf club on golfer’s hands, and more stable position at the
straighter and farther with more thereby reducing the power top attributable to the leverage
accuracy. necessary to support the club principle.
head during the upswing.
The first XXIO irons evolved
using the concept of easy swing • XXIO Eleven Iron Club Specs
and greater distance, and Material:
have been the top seller in the Face: Titanium (Super-TIX 51AF)
Japanese market for the past Body: (#5-7) 630 stainless steel + high density tungsten-nickel inner
19 years. The new generation
redefines this brand value to weight (#8-SW) 630 stainless steel
support the diversifying golf lives Construction:
of customers. Face: Milled insert
Body: Lost wax precision casting
The suggested retail prices are Finish: • Mirror+Ceramic-shot+Stain+Lazer finish
RM7,840.00 for a carbon shaft Grip: XXIO Eleven Original Weight Plus Full Rubber Grip
and RM6,600.00 for a steel shaft.
Features of the New XXIO (with XXIO logo)
Iron • XXIO X Iron Club Specs
Material:
The technology applied to Face: HT1770
XXIO golf clubs enables greater Body: S25C soft steel
distance and, through research Construction: Forged
and development, offers a unique Finish: • Mirror+Ceramic-shot+Stain+Lazer finish
way to generate the distance that Grip: XXIO X Original Weight Plus Full Rubber Grip (with XXIO logo)
maximises the power of each
golfer.

This edition focuses on “Top
of the Swing”, where newly
developed “WEIGHT PLUS”
technology helps maintain the
wrist cock, while creating an
ideal and highly stable power
position for greater distance at
the top. This delivers faster and
more accurate impact, with the
average distance improved by
3.3 yards with the XXIO ELEVEN,
compared to the previous model.
“WEIGHT PLUS” technology
is also used in the XXIO X,
providing unprecedented greater
distance.

86 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Head with higher repulsion New XXIO ELEVEN and
performance brings greater XXIO X Golf Balls
distance.
Providing greater distance and straightness for
XXIO ELEVEN adopted a wide range of golfers
the newly developed “TWIN
GROOVE” to use the deflection The XXIO ELEVEN and XXIO This new ball optimises its shape,
of the body, delivering constant X golf balls, due for release from responding to the target swing
and greater distance. In addition January 11, 2020, are engineered speed of XXIO ELEVEN ELEVEN
to the existing groove, the inner to provide greater distance and golf club users, creating the
backside of the face now has straightness with driver. best initial conditions at impact.
a groove twice as deep as the XXIO ELEVEN flies straight with
existing one, increasing the The XXIO ELEVEN has been a driver and allows for a longer
deflection of the sole at the designed for distance, with a carry distance, with a straight and
impact to enhance the repulsion softer feel, and the XXIO X, for high trajectory, with any number
performance of the entire face. distance and spin. While most iron. It is also designed to make
The head features the newly golfers hope to increase their the clear, high-pitched sound
developed “4-piece structure” carry distance with a driver, there more pleasant when hit by XXIO
and the body was separated are also other demands – ball ELEVEN driver.
from the face receiving portion control using spin on iron shots, XXIO X: Get more spin on iron
in order to allow for the flexibility or increased carry distance with shots (short iron).
of design, including “TWIN a high trajectory”. Both the XXIO
GROOVE” and the position of the ELEVEN and XXIO X are sure to XXIO X is equipped with a soft
center of gravity. satisfy a wide range of golfers core and soft, flexible cover, “Spin
with different play styles. Skin with SeRM®”, and Soft Mid
XXIO X, while maintaining soft Features of XXIO ELEVEN and that provides a soft feel and lower
feel of a soft iron body, adopted XXIO X Golf Balls spin rate. This new ball optimises
“SPEED GROOVE FACE”, where a Straighter flight and farther its shape, responding to the target
groove was added to the backside distance on driver shots. swing speed of XXIO X golf club
of the face in order to increase users, and its compression was
the deflection of the entire face, Both are designed to make made harder than XXIO ELEVEN
improving repulsion performance. initial conditions optimum for in order to produce the best initial
Easy at address and pleasant the head speed of XXIO golf club conditions. When using a driver or
feel suitable every golfer. users. The new models create middle iron, golfers can achieve
a penetrating trajectory with straight trajectory and great
In the 11th generation XXIO excellent straightness, bringing distance. In the short game, the
golf club, the head shape, “face”, out the best of XXIO clubs. soft cover generates excellent
and “feeling” were designed XXIO ELEVEN: Aim for longer carry spin performance and mild shot
to suit each target user. XXIO distance with any number iron. sound. Target golfers can get
ELEVEN, having a Titanium face, their preferred feel by combining
inherited the conventional head XXIO ELEVEN is a 3-piece the XXIO X golf ball with the XXIO
shape. The new XXIO X, with its construction with an extra soft X driver that gives a refined shot
soft iron body, has a straight neck core and Soft Mid that provides feel, or with the XXIO X iron that
shape that allows for easiness a softer feel and lower spin rate, gives mild shot feel.
at address and is designed to and has a highly flexible cover.
provide a pleasant hit feel, with a
large and tolerant face.

87GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

Honma Announces New BERES Product Line

The world’s most premium golf clubs receive stunning redesign.

Honma Golf officially released
its all-new BERES product line
and it includes drivers, fairways,
hybrids and irons for both
men and women available in
Honma’s iconic 2-, 3-, 4- or 5-Star
grade options. The new BERES
line is the pinnacle of Honma
craftsmanship and clubmaking
and is without equal in the golf
industry.

BERES club heads offer an
uncompromised level of detail
and are holistically designed
with super-premium ARMRQ
(pronounced AR-MARK) shafts to
provide golfers with outstanding
performance and beauty beyond
comparison.

BERES club heads offer an uncompromised level of detail and are
holistically designed with super-premium ARMRQ shafts to provide
golfers with outstanding performance and beauty beyond comparison.

88 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

“Only Honma’s most The metalwoods feature BERES ARMRQ shafts have
experienced takumi are maximum active speed slot been redesigned for distance.
permitted to work on BERES. technology that fully activate at Honma builds its own graphite
These golf clubs represent the lower swing speeds to increase shafts from start-to-finish in
soul of our company and are the distance. The sole slot features its Sakata, Japan, factory and
ultimate artistic expression of our deep side slot extensions to provide designs the shafts in tandem
most talented clubmakers,” said increased distance on off-center with the club head to maximise
Hiroshi Suwa, Senior Director, hits. A thin, internal, radial-ribbed the performance of the entire
Product Development Division. face in BERES drivers enhances club. The new ARMRQ shafts use
distance potential off the tee. the most sophisticated material
Four full product lines defined technology in the industry with
by a star grade, ranging from The maximum active speed multi-axis metal hybrid armor
2-5 Stars, are differentiated by slot technology extends to the technology visible under the grip
increasing levels of cosmetic new BERES irons, where three for a high smash-factor design
detail, shaft performance and sole slots, two internal and to increase a golfer’s distance
use of precious metals in the one external, work to increase potential. For 3-5-Star grade
clubhead, culminating in the jewel- speed off the face for increased options, increased use of special
like 5-Star offering featuring both distance, even at slower swing “twist fleuret” M40X composite
24K gold and platinum accents. speeds. A precision-engineered material, inspired by the shape
3D L-Cup face construction memory characteristics of fencing
New BERES clubs feature pushes weight back in the irons to swords, contributes to greater
elegant profiles, brilliant etching visible weight pads that enhance distance potential.
and textures, fine detailed forgiveness and speed on off-
badges, and an exclusive metal- center hits. “The new BERES brings
pearl powder paint. modern, elegant beauty and
high-performance technology to
a wide range of golfers across all
global markets who appreciate
fine detail and impeccable
craftsmanship in golf clubs,” said
Chris McGinley, Vice President of
Global Product.

Honma BERES is exclusively
available in MST Golf stores
nationwide.

Honma is exclusively
distributed by MST Golf in
Malaysia.

89GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

Mizuno Unveils Striking New MP-20 Irons
With Copper Plating For ‘Layers of Feel’

Mizuno, long renowned for its and each featuring soft copper Chris Voshall, “though what
beautiful, industry-leading forged plating beneath a protective nickel makes a Mizuno iron truly
irons and technically advanced chrome to deliver that legendary exceptional is everything you
golf clubs, has unveiled three Mizuno feedback and feel. can’t see. If you could peel back
new MP-20 Series iron models, the chrome plating, you would
featuring copper-plating within MP-20 MB is a pure find a sandwich of nickel and
the heads to add ‘layers of feel’ at muscleback, heavily influenced soft copper, before the Grain
impact. by the most revered blades of Flow Forged HD chassis. Under
Mizuno’s past and Grain Flow a microscope, you can see a
Mizuno, founded in Osaka, Forged HD from a single billet of perfect flow of grain within the
Japan, in 1906, has long held an 1025E Pure Select mild carbon steel, from the hosel to toe,
enviable industry and tour-wide steel. MP-20 MMC is hailed as compacted tighter in the hitting
reputation for crafting the very an ‘Elite Players’ Cavity’ and area. Designers can mimic our
finest forged irons in the game, represents the second-generation lines, but not what’s inside.”
offering golfers the ultimate blend of Mizuno’s multi-material MP-20 HMB
of looks, feel and workability. concept. It is also forged from
1025E Pure Select mild carbon The MP-20 HMB offers a
The three new MP-20 iron steel, but with a thinner topline full set of performance hybrid
models have evolved from the and refined scoring irons. It irons in a sharp, ‘tour-ready’
DNA of Mizuno irons that shaped shares the chassis, set flow and profile, built on the ball speed of
the modern game, launched proportions of the MP-20 MB, Mizuno’s Chromoly material in
Major-winning careers and but offers enhanced playability the face and neck, supported by a
inspired generations of ‘tour courtesy of a titanium muscle precision stainless steel body and
edition’ musclebacks. Exclusively plate and tungsten sole weight. tungsten weighting. It offers the
Grain Flow Forged in Hiroshima, MP-20 HMB is then a new proportions, topline and offset
Japan, where Mizuno has refined breed of hollow-headed ‘Hybrid transition of a classic Mizuno
the art of feel for more than 50 Muscle Back’ in a tour-ready players’ muscleback with a
years, the heads of all three MP- profile that features Mizuno’s generous sole width that’s hidden
20 iron models feature copper forged Chromoly material in at address, and is designed to
plating, just as in the brand’s the face and neck. It is inspired help consistent players pursuing
legendary TN87 model, for an by the proliferation of long added ball speed without
impact sensation recognised as iron replacements on tour, but sacrificing their shot-making
Mizuno’s purest ever. extends the concept right down to options.
the wedges.
The new family comprises The heads feature a brush
MP-20 MB, MP-20 MMC and “Most modern musclebacks satin, durable plated finish
MP-20 HMB models, each with and limited ‘tour edition’ irons and a complex, loft-specific
its own unique appeal, each can be traced back to the great construction. From 2- to 8-iron,
designed to either stand alone, or Mizuno blades,” says Mizuno’s
blend into custom combo sets,

90 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Mizuno’s multi-thickness “We kept asking ourselves second Ti muscle pad improves
Grain Flow Forged Chromoly why players still talked about set flow by allowing for a narrower
face and neck is dialled in to the feel of older Mizuno blades – sole from 8-iron to pitching
be consistently hot across TN87, MP14, MP29, TP9,” says wedge. The topline is dramatically
the clubface. For the long to Voshall. “Despite our Grain Flow thinner than on the MP-18 MMC
mid irons, twin 12g tungsten Forging process tightening up (0.3mm thinner in the 4-iron and
weights deliver stability and and an evolving CAD process 0.4mm in the pitching wedge)
an easy launch, while use of a that predicts vibration patterns, while remaining only 1mm thicker
softer 1025E Pure Select mild we were still missing something. at address than on the MP-20 MB.
carbon steel from 9-iron to PW The one element left from The chrome finishing is again a
makes the short irons soft and the old classics was a layer of mix of satin and mirror.
responsive. copper. After blind testing our
MP-20 MB players at the Valspar it was “The new MMC is the smaller,
more than nostalgia – our test sharper version of the original,”
This pure muscleback’s ‘tour- pool universally preferred the says Voshall. “For a player with a
ready’ profile has been honed by prototype with copper plating.” traditional eye looking for a little
studying elements of Mizuno’s MP-20 MMC stability on off-centre strikes, but
most played/retained tour iron comfortable with their distances
models by both contracted and The second generation of and ball speed, this is the iron.”
non-contracted tour players, Mizuno’s multi-material concept
with usage among the tour’s new is engineered to be more playable Mizuno has strived to
breed of ‘free agents’ adding a than the MP-20 MB, courtesy “create the best products for
new perspective. A discreetly of its titanium muscle plate and consumers” for 113 years, and all
tapered topline and cambered tungsten sole weight. It promises three models in the new MP-20
sole allow a fuller spread of stability in a tour-preferred profile, iron family adhere firmly to that
weight to enhance vertical with a titanium muscle spreading original spirit and desire, while
stability and forgiveness on weight for forgiveness on off- offering the best performance
strikes from high or low in the centre strikes, while maintaining benefits that modern technology
face, while retaining a traditional centre-portion thickness for the can bring.
muscleback appearance. feel and feedback associated with Availability:
a muscleback iron. The MP-20 irons are exclusively
The topline has been available from MST Golf stores.
refined in response to tour The multi-material Mizuno is exclusively distributed
player preferences and is construction comprises a Grain by MST Golf.
Mizuno’s thinnest among recent Flow Forged 1025E mild carbon Retail Price:
generations of MP irons, while the steel chassis and Ti muscle pad MP-20 MB #5-PW: RM5,050
blend of satin and mirror chrome throughout the set, with a 12g MP-20 MMC #5-PW: RM5,200
finishing has been engineered to tungsten toe weight from the 4- to MP-20 HMB #5-PW: RM5,200
eliminate areas of high glare in 7-irons that adds ease of launch
the playing position. in a compact playing profile. A

91GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

New Phantom X 12.5 Putter by Scotty Cameron

Low-Bend Shaft Set-up with New Sight Line Configuration Adds Tour-inspired
Option to High-Tech Mallet Family – in Right- and Left-Handed Models

Every time we introduce a new dedicated golfers alike, Scotty
putter line, I receive requests added a continuous, single center
from Tour players and dedicated sight line milled from the leading
golfers for additional setups and edge to the back of the flange
configurations. Phantom X – painted gloss black – offering
12.5 is the result of some of a new alignment feature for the
those requests. I added Phantom X line.
the low-bend shaft • LEFT-HANDED MODEL:
for extra toe flow and Adding a new configuration to the
also designed a new family, the Phantom X 12.5 is also
alignment option by available for left-handed players.
milling a single sight line • MULTI-MATERIAL
down the center painted HEAD WITH SOLID FACE
black for a very clean look TECHNOLOGY: The Phantom
from address. It really sets X 12.5 mallet is constructed with
up nicely. a standard-milled, 6061 aircraft
aluminum face anodised black
Scotty Cameron has added a multi-material construction that extends back and through
new model to the 2019 Phantom methodology of combining 303 the flange area, surrounded by
X family – the Phantom X 12.5 stainless steel and 6061 aircraft- heavier 303 stainless steel wings
– to meet the needs of players grade aluminum for increased for high-MOI and stability.
seeking a stable mallet with more MOI, optimal weight distribution, PHANTOM X WEIGHTING &
toe flow and a new alignment forgiveness, improved sound and GRIP
option. A left-handed Phantom X responsive feedback. New Phantom X 12.5 putters
12.5 model also joins the lineup. PERFORMANCE AND feature the line’s advanced
TECHNOLOGY stability weighting with two,
Phantom X 12.5 joins a • LOW-BEND SHAFT customisable stainless steel heel-
cohesive Phantom X family that CONFIGURATION: The Phantom toe weights and stepless steel
now includes 10 modern mallet X 12.5 has a stepless steel shaft shafts, as well as the Pistolero
designs, built around five different with one shaft of offset and a Plus grip in cement gray with
head styles. Phantom X 12.5 single “low-bend” designed to aim gloss black paintfill.
provides golfers with a new setup directly down the target line and FINISH & GRAPHICS
option – featuring a low-bend promote an arc path for more toe The Phantom X 12.5 model’s
shaft configuration and a Tour- flow in the putting stroke. aircraft grade aluminum
inspired single milled sight line – • TOUR-INSPIRED components have been anodised
built around the family’s flagship ALIGNMENT: Addressing black in a misted finish that helps
model, the high-MOI Phantom X requests from Tour players and to reduce sun glare. The stainless
12. steel putter head components
have also been misted for a
Like every putter in the lineup, radiant yet glare resistant
the Phantom X 12.5 incorporates appearance. The single milled
Scotty’s Tour-inspired, sight line, painted gloss black,
provides a subtle tone-on-tone
visual alignment guide.
AVAILABILITY & PRICE
Available in Malaysia on February
14, 2020 through Titleist
authorised golf shops – RM1,920.

92 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

The All New X FORGED STAR Iron

Exceptional Feel of a One Piece Iron.

The X Forged Star Iron, like The head is designed to have
the X Forged Iron, is a one-piece low centre of gravity setting that
forged iron, where the entire head promises easy launch regardless
is crafted using 1020 carbon of strong loft settings, enabling
steel. The result is that players players to catch the green with
can now enjoy the exceptional feel high ball flight. Compared with
of a one-piece head iron. the X Forged Iron, the sole width
is approximately 12 per cent
Originally, this one-piece wider, top blade is approximately
forged carbon steel iron had a 16 per cent wider, whereas the
classical loft setting that provided toe height is approximately 13
high ball height, but not enough per cent higher. This allows the
distance for players who have less bigger head size to provide more
power, compared to Tour players reassurance at address than
and better players. However, the small headed forged irons.
X Forged Star Iron has a strong Availability:
loft setting that ensures every At all major retailers since
player can generate distance. The November 2019.
ability to generate distance from Retail Price:
the strong loft design is unique for RM5,999
forged carbon steel irons.

New ONOFF KURO Forged Irons

The new ONOFF KURO Forged irons, because they are used
irons feature a thick, straight top for shot making from various
blade, while adopting a unique lies and situations. More stable
hollow structure throughout the and consistent spin results in
set. The hollow structure was in more consistent distance and
high demand by professionals, direction.
while the sharp head shape
was designed with thorough The ONOFF Kuro Forged irons
professional input. come in a set of 6 irons, from 5
iron to pitching wedge. The shaft
The irons are easy to set- options are NS Pro Modus 105 for
up and maintain clean lines, steel shaft and LaboSpec Shinari
while maximising distance and i65 as the graphite option.
forgiveness from the head. Retail Price:
Steel Shaft: RM5,700
Spin performance in the Graphite Shaft: RM6,650
KURO Forged irons is stabilised Availability:
by suppressing spin variations ONOFF is exclusively distributed in
caused by miss-hits or wet Malaysia by MST Golf.
conditions, through the laser
milling and machine processing.
This is especially beneficial for

93GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

PUMA GOLF Introduces New Super Comfy
CLOUDSPUN

Apparel Collection Soft Would Be An Understatement.

Have you dreamt of
playing golf in a shirt that’s so
comfortable you’d never want
to take it off? You could golf in it,
work in it, relax in it … basically
live in it. Well, look no further.
When it comes to PUMA’s 2020
CLOUDSPUN apparel, there’s
more than meets the eye. This
new collection of polo’s and
layering pieces with innovative
CLOUDSPUN technology
are literally the softest, most
lightweight, breathable,
stretchiest fabric the brand has
ever used.

Each CLOUDSPUN piece
in the 2020 Spring Summer
collection is eye-catching,
features a supreme fit and simply
put, is the softest polo a golfer
will ever wear thanks to PUMA’s
custom-milled fabric, brushed
for additional softness, genuinely
warranting the marketing
tagline ‘Ours Feels Softer Than
Yours.’ The moisture-wicking,
four-way stretch fabric delivers
the softness of cotton and
the performance of polyester
without simply looking like a golf
top. The result is a collection
of wardrobe essentials for any
golfer that will easily transition
from a business meeting to
the golf course, to dinner with
friends, without sacrificing
comfort or style.

“We set out to design golf
essentials that a golfer will
actually want to live in, selecting
custom fabrics that could
move with the golfer wherever
their day may take them,” said
Chris MacNeill, Senior Product

Chris MacNeill, Senior Product Line Manager, PUMA Golf Apparel

Each piece feels just as comfortable as your favorite soft, cozy t-shirt, yet looks like a
sophisticated, classic golf piece designed to perform with you on course. Feel is key
when it comes to your apparel, and these pieces will feel better than anything you’ve
ever worn.

94 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Caddie Stripe Polo CLOUDSPUN CLOUDSPUN CLOUDSPUN Warm Up ¼ Zip
Champions Polo Taylor Polo convenient front pockets and a
fun asymmetrical zip for added
Line Manager, PUMA Golf and an eye-catching contrasting style. Available in four fashionable
Apparel. “Each piece feels just chest pocket with a subtle stripe colorways.
as comfortable as your favorite pattern, this polo will have you
soft, cozy t-shirt, yet looks like a feeling the confidence to shoot Women’s CLOUDSPUN
sophisticated, classic golf piece lower scores on course or sell that Warm Up Jacket – this full-zip
designed to perform with you on big idea at the office. jacket is the perfect layering
course. Feel is key when it comes piece to wear on course when the
to your apparel, and these pieces CADDIE Stripe Polo – temperature starts to drop, or to
will feel better than anything this perfect everyday polo is a throw on to run errands or head to
you’ve ever worn.” wardrobe essential, featuring the gym. Available in five on-trend
a subtle stripe pattern, that will colorways.
The SS20 CLOUDSPUN have you looking as good as your
Collection includes three polo’s shirt feels. Women’s CLOUDSPUN
and two layering pieces for men, Warm Up Vest – the best feeling
along with three layering pieces Men’s CLOUDSPUN Warm vest you’ll ever find, packed with
for women. Up ¼ Zip – designed with a all the performance needed on
trendy colorblock pattern across the course. Brushed on the inside
CLOUDSPUN Taylor Polo the front, sleeves and back. This for extra warmth, this is the piece
– designed for the fashion- pullover has a drawcord at the you’ll want on course when the
forward golfer who values hem to ensure the perfect fit. temperature starts to drop.
comfort. Featuring a bold
colorblock pattern that makes Men’s CLOUDSPUN Warm PUMA will continue to build
a statement. The polo, which Up Vest – this will be the best upon its CLOUDSPUN collection
will certainly be worn on repeat golf vest you’ll ever own. Available with an even bigger assortment
on Tour by the likes of Rickie in four, two-tone colorways, of striking men’s and women’s
Fowler, Bryson DeChambeau delivering the perfect layering apparel pieces in Autumn Winter
and Gary Woodland, also piece for your go-to golf outfit. Be 2020.
features a subtle P label on the ready to inVEST in a little bit of Availability:
hem and PUMA cat logo on the warmth and a lot of style. December 2019 through selected
sleeve. retailers.
Women’s CLOUDSPUN
CLOUDSPUN Champions Warm Up ¼ Zip – this ¼ zip has
Polo – featuring a birdseye collar it all – an extremely soft feel with
a brushed fabric on the inside,

95GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

FootJoy FJ FLEX Releases New Additions

New style options and even greater performance

FootJoy have launched Product Development, Footwear. 56251
several additions to the popular “This product will excite FJ – Grey
FJ FLEX franchise. These updates FLEX wearers and those looking 56253
deliver enhanced comfort, for unrivaled versatility on – Black
style and performance on the any surface and in all weather
course, in the clubhouse and conditions.”
beyond. With a commitment to
delivering superior comfort and FLEX XP offers all-day comfort
versatility on and off the golf with a high-density EVA fitbed
course at its core, FJ FLEX now and bootie-fit construction that
offers waterproof protection provides a sock-like fit. The
and elevated athletic styling sporty styling, combined with
with the all-new FLEX XP. The a waterproof membrane and
completely new upper design proprietary Versa-Trax spikeless
features a premium, lightweight outsole, FLEX XP is ready to
performance mesh upper with a deliver, rain or shine.
one-year waterproof warranty.
“With the momentum that we
“Offering an adjacent have riding the incredible success
waterproof category was a critical of FJ FLEX, it’s really exciting
addition to the FLEX family, to see what we can do with this
with further enhancements to footwear franchise,” added Fryer.
improve the overall design,”
said Richard Fryer, Director of Timothy Yoong, FJ Regional
Brand Manager, said, “The FJ
Flex franchise just gets better

96 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

Richard Fryer, Director of Product Development, Footwear

Offering an adjacent waterproof category was a critical
addition to the FLEX family, with further enhancements
to improve the overall design

and better. The trendy styling placed where the foot applies 56252 – Blue
plus an all-weather construction maximum pressure with the
of this new Flex XP provides ground during the golf swing. follow the brand on Facebook @
the complete on and off-course • VERSATILE OFF-COURSE FootJoy SEA or on Instagram @
versatility for every golfer. Wear TRACTION: Larger, flatter no- footjoy.sea
it to the Range, or on the golf slip surfaces for traction FEATURES AND BENEFITS:
course, or get on a plane, or to and durability. FLEX XP
the supermarket, this shoe will • HYBRID • Proprietary Versa-Trax rubber
never let you feel out of place. TRACTION: Mix
That’s how versatile the new FJ of both on and off outsole technology delivers
Flex XP is.” course traction versatile on/off course traction.
VERSA-TRAX OUTSOLE elements, • Soft and supportive EVA midsole
TECHNOLOGY engineered provides soft, cushioned ride.
to maximise • Premium performance mesh
All FJ FLEX shoes feature traction on the upper.
the innovative Versa-Trax course during • 1-year waterproof warranty.
outsole configuration, a web of the swing and AVAILABLE STYLES:
multidimensional, strategically provide grip when FLEX XP
placed traction elements walking on smooth 56250 – White
designed for on and off course surfaces off the course. 56253 – Black
wear. The proprietary Versa-Trax • ALL-DAY COMFORT: 56252 – Blue
outsole technology offers multiple Lightweight, soft foam 56251 – Grey
traction zones that maximise cushioning. RETAIL PRICE: RM480.00
golf performance in all conditions
and produce exceptional multi- For more information, visit
surface grip. www.footJoy.com.sg / www.
• GOLF PERFORMANCE footjoy.com.my . You can also
TRACTION: Pointy, turf-gripping
traction elements strategically

97GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020

IN THE INDUSTRY SAM BETTINARDI

Enter Bettinardi
… when and where it all comes down to the putter

By Shiv Das (l-r) Sam Bettinard with K.P. Low, Managing Director, MST Golf.

Even among top pro golfers, (no prizes for guessing it’s a family “Knowing MST Golf has been
business), here for the first time and long in the market is important
each one, tee to green, is about the who’s completely sold on the tie-in. because I want my brand here in
same, some hitting it a bit longer or Looking for retailers to partner with, the market, staying in the market …
more accurately, but, for the most the obvious choice was MST Golf without volatility and having seen
part, when you see them win on the with its 30-year history and some 30 their stores, they are beautiful. They
Sunday or the weekend, it’s because stores, five in Singapore. are way ahead of the curve in Asia …
of their putting. even a lot of shops in America.”
He saw its staff knowledgeable and
And the higher-end putter, that’s capable of handling the wide variety The other endorsement – he didn’t
been making a name for itself in of putter options … different face see anything stopping MST Golf from
recent years, is the Bettinardi and a becoming a global brand.
newly-forged partnership with MST millings, head styles and finishes. “I
Golf, means it’s available for walk-in want the Malaysian consumer to For him, the ‘drive for show, putt
customers at its TPC Kuala Lumpur have the whole assortment, not just for dough’ is an age-old golf adage
outlet in Mont Kiara. That’s for a couple of models. that says it all. “Putting is THE most
starters.

It’s a winner going with a winner.
Bettinardi Golf tying up with a
retailer without equal in the country.

Here to seal the deal, the club-
maker’s vice-president Sam Bettinardi

Sam Bettinardi

Knowing MST Golf has been long in the market
is important because I want my brand here in
the market, staying in the market … without
volatility and having seen their stores, they are
beautiful. They are way ahead of the curve in
Asia … even a lot of shops in America.

98 GOLF MALAYSIA JANUARY 2020