HUA HIN, THAILAND: Banyan Hua Hin, the healthy active lifestyle community near Thailand’s gulf coast, has announced the appointment of Mr. Simon Mees as the new General Manager of Banyan Golf Club, the world-renowned, multi-award-winning championship course.

Originally hailing from Scotland, Simon is a PGA pro golfer with extensive operational and management experience at top golf courses and country clubs around the world. A former head academy professional at Dubai Golf and General Manager of the acclaimed Al Hamra Golf Club in the UAE, Simon moved to Southeast Asia in 2017 as General Manager of the Greg Norman-designed KN Gold Links on Cam Ranh, Vietnam. 

Most recently, he oversaw the successful reopening of Aquella Golf & Country Club on Thailand’s Andaman coast, 70km north of Phuket. Throughout his career, Simon has demonstrated a proven track record of motivating his teams, implementing the highest standards of service and delivering outstanding results. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf, keeping fit and spending time with his family.

As General Manager of Banyan Golf Club, one of Thailand’s most famous courses, Simon, supported by management company Absolute Golf Services, will oversee all areas of club management, golf operations, member relations, food & beverage and team development. He will also lead Banyan Golf Club’s popular events, including its Power Tee Competition, Two-Ball Scramble Challenge, Members’ Monthly Medal and more, along with regular social get-togethers, barbeques, and dinners. 

“I am delighted to welcome Simon to Banyan Golf Club as our new General Manager. With his extensive experience at five-star courses, intimate knowledge of club operations and understanding of the needs of members, I am confident that he will be a valuable addition to Banyan Hua Hin. As more Thai residents seek healthy active lifestyles and international golfers return to the kingdom in increasing numbers, this marks the start of an exciting new era for Banyan Golf Club. Together with Absolute Golf Services, we are looking forward to working with Simon as we raise the quality of golf in Thailand to new levels of excellence,” commented Tjeert Kwant, Group CEO of Banyan Thailand.

Created on the site of a former pineapple plantation in 2009, with views stretching out across the Gulf of Thailand and mountains of Myanmar, Banyan Golf Club has built an impressive reputation among the world’s golfers. Designed by Thailand’s leading golf architect, Pirapon Namatra, this 18-hole, par 72 course was awarded the “Order of Zenith” – the highest and most prestigious golf award in Asia Pacific – by Asian Golf in 2018 and is ranked among the “Top 1000 in the World” by Rolex. Its signature hole, the par 3 15th, offers spectacular views the sparkling sea and surrounding landscape from elevated tees.

This compelling course is complemented by an iconic Thai-style clubhouse, the popular Mulligan’s Pub which features a wide range of premium beverages, an exclusive whiskey collection and a humidor of Cuban cigars, plus a large LED TV screen for major sporting events, and The Terrace restaurant which offers local and international cuisine, overlooking the mountains. 

Banyan Golf Club is an integral element of Banyan Hua Hin, a community dedicated to offering a healthy active lifestyle featuring pool villas, private residences, wellness facilities and more, all set in serene natural surroundings. This makes it the perfect place for local residents and international visitors to enjoy an extended escape, with luxurious family accommodation and world-class facilities. Members of the Banyan Privilege Club are offered preferential rates and discounts at wide range of local amenities and facilities such as five-star hotels and resorts, world-class restaurants, bars, spas, sports facilities, international schools, hospitals and more. 

To learn more about Banyan Hua Hin, please visit www.banyanthailand.com or call 032 538 888.

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In March, Black Mountain Golf Club hosted the inaugural International Series Thailand event.

The tournament, which took place between Mar 3-6 was the first in a new series of Saudi-backed golf tournaments, fronted by former world number 1 Greg Norman and LIV Golf Investments.

The first event in the series took place in Thailand, with Black Mountain chosen as the host.

The series, which is regarded by some as heralding a “new era for Asian golf”, will see further stops in Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Middle East, China, Singapore, Hong Kong and the United Kingdom.

The series ended in victory for American golfer Sihwan Kim who shot a nine-under-par 63 in the fourth round of the tournament to take home the $270,000 prize.

Kim, who broke the course record on day one, shooting a 10-under par 62, took on Thailand’s great hope for the future, Phachara Khongwatmai in the final round, with the 33-year-old winning by two strokes.

“We have always had a really good relationship with the Asian Tour and to host the first International Series Thailand has been really exciting”, Harald told Hua Hin Today.

“The International Series really elevates golf in this region in every sense, including for the players and fans but also for Hua Hin.

“We would love for the International Series to become a yearly event at Black Mountain, which would also help to further establish Hua Hin as a truly international golf destination”.

The hosting of the International Series was a positive after what has been a challenging two years for Black Mountain.

Harald explained the pandemic essentially resulted in the loss of two high seasons for the golf course.

But amidst the challenges of the pandemic, there has been some positivity.

Black Mountain Golf Club and its resort villas are SHA+ certified and approved accommodation for people entering Thailand as part of the Test & Go program.

While this brought a slight increase in people visiting, Harald says it was mainly returning expats rather than the “two week tourists” who were staying at Black Mountain.

“I think a lot of people are really eager to come back to Thailand but we have not yet seen the return of tourists to the same levels as we saw before”.

While golf remains at the core of Black Mountain, the resort includes over one hundred villas and a water park, while the Hua Hin International School is also located on site.

“Actually, where we have seen some of the biggest changes during the pandemic is with our properties”, Harald says.

“There are approximately 150 properties at Black Mountain, we keep growing all the time”.

“Even during the pandemic we saw an influx of people buying.”

Harald says that the demographic of people buying property at Black Mountain has changed from when the golf course opened in 2007.

While Black Mountain remains popular with retirees and people buying second homes, more families with young children are also buying properties there.

Harald says that the location of Black Mountain makes it popular with families.

“People who move here are moving to live permanently in Hua Hin and we are starting to see more people who are family oriented, which for us is great because we have the international school nearby and also the water park.

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Paul Bell, Winner of Competition 1st December David Morris, winner of Stableford Championship Alan Harris Richard Gaskell Dave Hammond Wan Wallberg Jim Harvey Cecilia Harvey David Dunn, winner of the Scratch Championship Robert Jones, winner of Competition 16th December DETAILS AND RESULTS OF ALL THE COMPETITIONS AS FOLLOWS, Course A is now open and is in excellent condition. Work is now being carried on C course over the next few weeks and will be open again in the near future.

Our Weekly Competition, which is open to Members and Non Members is held every Thursday. Any golfer wishing to participate, can either register at the Pro Shop or by email to bookings@majesticcreekcc.com All the results of the competitions and handicap changes can be seen by logging on to, www.masterscoreboard.co.uk password “putter”, click on “Societies” the click on “Majestic Creek Golf Club”.

The results can also be seen on the large Scoreboard on the patio in front of the Clubhouse. December is our most important month for our Weekly Competitions as we hold our CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITION this month, which is spread over 2 Days.

The competition is in 2 sections, one of which is a Strokeplay competition with handicap allowance, the other one being a Strokeplay competition without any Handicap allowance. All players are listed to play in both competitions. This year we had 32 players taking part, not as many as in past years, as some of our members were still in their own countries, due to the Covid situation.

DETAILS AND RESULTS OF ALL THE COMPETITIONS AS FOLLOWS,

1st DECEMBER,
STABLEFORD COMPETITION
1st Paul Bell PAUL 44 points playing off 17
2nd Pau Morris 41 points playing off 18
3rd Paul Unthank 40 points playing off 10

Guest Prize
LEE HUGHES 28 points playing off 31

NEAREST PIN IN 0NE ON PAR 3s
Hole C2 Trevor Grange
Hole C5 Paul Bell
Hole B3 Maem Marungrong
Hole B17 Pam Thomson
Course A was re-opened for the competition today for the first time for several months and
was in excellent condition.

16th December
STABLEFORD COMPETITION
1ST Robert Jones 36 points playing off 14
2nd Dana Lilja 36 points playing off 3
3rd Frank Ullrich 34 points playing off 2

Nearest The Pins on Par 3s
Hole A4 Frank Ullrich
Hole A6 Dana Lilja
Hole B12 Frank Ullrich
Hole B17 Robert Jones
CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 7TH AND 9TH
DECEMBER
PLAYED ON COURSES C AND B

There were 32 players taking part over two days on Courses C and B. The competition was a Strokeplay competition, all players competing for two trophies, THE SCRATCH CUP, which is calculated on the best Gross Score (no handicap allowance) and is the total of the strokes played over the two days.

THE HANDICAP CUP, which is calculated on the total of the two scores minus the playing handicap of each player. Both courses were in great condition and the weather was perfect for golf. Details of the results for Day 1 as follows;

DAY 1 Handicap Cup.
1st Trevor Grange 87 off 18 handicap, net 69
2nd Maem Marungrong 85 off 15 handicap, net 70
3rd Alan Harris 76 off 6 handicap, net 70
4th Dave Hammond 92 off 20 handicap, net 72
5th Olivier Pinard 81 off 8 handicap, net 73
Leading the Scratch Competition after 1 day;

1st Alan Harris 76
2nd David Dunn 79
3rd Frank Ullrich 80
4th Olivier Pinard 81
5th Goran Sundin 82

DAY 2 Handicap Cup
1st David Morris 87 off 21 handicap,
net 66
2nd Olivier Pinard 75 off 8 handicap,
net 67
3rd Jim Harvey 81 off 13 handicap,
net 68
4th Maem Marungrong 85 off
15 handicap, Net 70
5th Derek Townsend 86 off
16 handicap, net 70

Day 2 Scratch Cup,
1st Olivier Pinard 75
2nd David Dunn 76
3rd Frank Ullrich 80 and Goran Sundin 80
5th Jim Harvey 81 and Paul Unthank 81

FINAL RESULTS OVER THE TWO DAYS FOR HANDICAP CUP
1st David Morris 140 Net off handicap 21
2nd Maem Marungrong 140 Net off
handicap 15
3rd Jim Harvey 143 Net off handicap 13

FINAL RESULTS OVER THE TWO DAYS
FOR SCRATCH CUP
1st David Dunn 155 strokes
2nd Olivier Pinard 156 strokes
3rd Alan Harris 159 strokes

NEAREST THE PINS DAY 1
Hole C2 Goran Sundin
Hole C5 Alan Harris
Hole B12 Wan Wallberg
Hole B17 Eric Chantraine
Nearest The Pin In 2 on Hole C8
Paul Unthank
Nearest The Pin in 3 on Hole B18
Dave Hammond

NEAREST THE PINS DAY 2
Hole C2 Philippe Hattabe
Hole C5 Trevor Grange
Hole B12 Richard Gaskell
Hole B17 Robert Jones
Nearest The Pin in 2 on Hole C8
Alan Harris
Nearest The Pin in 3 on Hole 18
Jim Harvey

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This process will continue every week until further notice. We are still playing courses C and B and work has commenced on course A to re-open in the near future. Anybody wishing to take part in our weekly competition can register either at the Pro-shop or by email at, bookings@majesticcreekcc.com

All the results can be seen by logging on to, www.masterscoreboard.co.uk, log on to societies, Password “putter” The results can also be seen on the large scoreboard on the patio in front of the clubhouse

Majestic Creek Resort and Country Club, Hua Hin, offers privileges for ALL GOLFERS, who have been vaccinated against Covid 19 as follows; With your PROOF OF VACCINATION, you are offered a free round of golf which is limited to one round of golf for each dose and limited to a maximum of 3 rounds of golf until 31st December 2021.

This privilege is free only for Green Fee, Caddies and Golf Carts are extra. Please show your proof of vaccination at the Pro Shop when you register to play. This privilege cannot be used with any other privileges at our Golf Course. Please make your bookings 7 days in advance.

RESULYS FOR THE COMPETITIONS PLAYED OVER THE LAST 4 WEEKS AS FOLLOWS

23Rd September
1st Ayyub Mian, 40 points, playing off 25
2nd Olivier Pinard, 37 points, playing off 9
3rd Jean Paul Capbern, 36 points, playing off 15

Nearest The Pin Prizes
Hole C2 Pau Morris
Hole C5 Pam Thomson
Hole B12 Richard Gaskell
Hole B17 Georges Santin

RESULTS 30TH SEPTEMBER
1st Maem Marungreung, 43 points, playing off 16
2nd Jean Paul Capbern, 42 points, playing off 15
3rd Frank Ullrich, 38 points, playing off 7

Nearest The Pin Prizes
Hole C2 Georges Santin
Hole C5 Ian Wooldridge
Hole B12 Olivier Pinard
Hole B17 Pam Thomson

RESULTS 7TH OCTOBER
1st Frank Ullrich, 39 points, playing off 7
2nd Olivier Pinard, 39 points, playing off 9
3rd Jean Paul Capbern, 37 points, playing off 14

Nearest The Pin Prizes
Hole C2 Pam Thomson
Hole C5 Trevor Grange
Hole B12 Richard Gaskell
Hole B 17 Olivier Pinard

RESULS 14TH OCTOBER
1st Robert Jones, 40 points, playing off 18
2nd Jean Paul Capbern, 37 points, playing off 14
3rd Trevor Grange, 37 point, playing off 18

Nearest The Pin Prizes
Hole C2 David Crawford
Hole C5 Dave Hammond
Hole B12 Paul Bell
Hole B17 Robert Luns

The post Majestic Report appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life.

One of the reasons for the course being built was that during the 1920’s Hua Hin’s popularity increased as the railway line from Bangkok was completed and Klai Kangwon Palace became a Royal summer retreat. A Scottish Railway Engineer, Mr. A.O Robins, working on the railway line, is accredited as the Course designer.

Visitors, including non-golfers, often take the time to browse the walls of the Club house to take in some real golfing history. One photo shows the inauguration ceremony of the initial nine holes presided over by His Majesty King Vajiravudh the Great (Rama VI) on June 28th 1924.

The King’s younger brother was assigned to supervise construction as Patron of the Thailand Golf Association. The Course was completed in 1928 during his reign as King Prajadhipok (Rama VIII).

The original clubhouse has been preserved next to the 10th tee and the 18th green overlooked by the current premises, completed in 1985 along with some other modernisation of the Course. This coincides with the Boon Rawd Brewery (Singha Beer) assuming management of the Course, an arrangement that continues to the present date.

Royal Hua Hin is located as close to downtown Hua Hin as you could imagine, with only the new dual track railway Line and current station separating it from the City Centre. It’s quite possible to walk from hotels nearby. It’s also possible to be disturbed on the first tee by amplified announcements from the station, however this just adds to the charm of the Course. As soon as you have commenced your round it becomes very quiet with only the sounds of nature audible.

The Course wanders through tree lined fairways with gentle contours as an easy walk, always with Hin Lek Fai as the western backdrop. Some of the trees are huge and very old, often extending their limbs and foliage to narrow shot options. Many trees are hundreds of years old and may have their horticultural names affixed to them.

Topiary trees featuring throughout the course are maintained by gardeners who also take care of the nearby Centara Resort & Spa topiary gardens.

It would be futile to compare Royal Hua Hin with Regional Courses such as Black Mountain, Banyan, Majestic Creek or the other contemporary resort style courses in the region that are recognised as amongst Thailand’s best. This Course does not pretend to offer that sort of experience but something quite different. Perhaps like trying to compare an old Scottish links course with Pebble Beach. One is not necessarily better, just different.

The unique royal history and scenic location means this golf course really is one of the region’s most treasured historical attractions, with a centenary celebration coming soon for Thailand’s home of golf.

The post The home of Golf in Thailand – Royal Hua Hin Golf Course approaches a centenary appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life.

Over the last 4 weeks we have only been able to have 3 competitions. The one due to be played on 15th July was abandoned, due to a very heavy rainstorm halfway through the competition, with only 3 groups able to complete their rounds. We invite nonmembers to come and play in the competitions and we have a separate prize for these players. They are also able to win any of the Nearest the Pin prizes on holes A4, A6, B12 and B17. Over the past 3 weeks 10 guests have played in the competitions.

We invite nonmembers to come and play in the competitions and we have a separate prize for these players. They are also able to win any of the Nearest the Pin prizes on holes A4, A6, B12 and B17. Over the past 3 weeks 10 guests have played in the competitions. All the results from the competitions can be seen on the large scoreboard on the patio outside the front of the Clubhouse, this lists 1st, 2nd and 3rd places and the guest prize, along with the nearest the pin winners. You can also see the results by logging on to Master scoreboard under, Societies, then Majestic Creek Golf Club and Resort password, ‘putter’, small case.

The number of players taking part over the past 3 weeks has averaged 31, a small increase over the previous 4 weeks. Anyone wishing to take part can register at the clubhouse or by email to, bookings@majesticcreekcc.com. All bookings must be made by Tuesday evening and your Tee Time will be sent to you by email on Wednesday morning.

The COVID situation continues to worsen and we would request that all players abide by the rules as laid down by the Management. All the caddies and staff have now had their first vaccination against the virus without any problems.

Results as follows:

24* JUNE STABLEFORD COMPETITION

28 Players taking part
1st Cecilia Harvey, 39 points handicap 18
2nd Olivier Pinard, 38 points, handicap 5
3rd Jim Harvey, 36 points, handicap 15

Guest Prize,
Sam Burns, 39 points, handicap 23

Nearest the Pin winners
A4 Robert Jones
A6 Adrienne Fullerton
B12 Adrienne Fullerton
B17 Olivier Pinard

1st JULY, STABLEFORD COMPETITION

31 Players taking part
1st Cecilia Harvey, 39 points, handicap 17
2nd Konrad Hitz, 38 points, handicap 39
3rd Dana Lilja, 37 points

Guest Prize,
Sam Burns 31 points, handicap 23.

Nearest The Pin Winners
A4 Paul Unthank
A6 Tony Southgate
B12 Barry Haig
B17 Sidras Niniyom

8th JULY, STABLEFORD COMPETITION

1st Dave Hammond 44 points, handicap 23
2nd Maem Marungrong 43 points, handicap 20
3rd Xavier Diana 41 points, handicap 14

Guest Prize,
Sam Burns 40 points, handicap 27

Nearest the Pin Winners
A4 Didier Marchand
A6 Angie Southgate
B12 Maem Marungrong
B17 Pam Thomson

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If you have won a prize in the competition, you can see your name on the large scoreboard outside on the front patio, which lists 1st 2nd and 3rd in the main competition along with the guest prize winner and the names of the nearest the pin winners The course remains in excellent condition, so once again, well done to the ground and maintenance staff.

Please note that we are still under certain COVID restrictions and would request that the seating arrangements in the clubhouse are adhered to and that masks are worn. THIS PROTECTS US ALL. The number of players taking part has remained steady over the past 4 weeks, averaging approximately 27. Results of all the competitions are listed below.

Any player wishing to take part can register by email to, bookings@majesticcreekcc.com or direct at the reception desk in the clubhouse. All reservations to be made by Tuesday evening, and Tee time will be emailed to you on Wednesday morning. We have a number of different competitions over the past 4 weeks as follows, 27th May, Team Game, four ball better ball, 3rd June Strokeplay, and Stableford on 10th and 17th June.

Results as follows:

27th May, 4 BALL BETTER BALL COMPETITION,
TEAMS OF 2 PLAYERS

1st Jim and Cecilia Harvey 48 points
2nd Ian Wooldridge and Pam Thompson 47 points
3rd Paul Unthank and Maem Marungrong 46 points
Nearest the Pin Prizes,
Hole A4, Brian Callihoo
Hole A6, Olivier Pinard
Hole B12, Adrienne Fullerton
Hole B17, Alan Harris
Jean Berruyer

3rd June, STROKEPLAY
17 players taking part

Gross Competition
1st Olivier Pinard handicap 5,
gross score 76 net 71
2nd Dana Lilja, handicap 3,
gross score 77 net 74

Handicap Competition

1st David Morris, handicap 17,
gross score 86 net 69
2nd Ian Wooldridge, handicap 11,
gross score 80 net 69
3rd Dave Holland, handicap 20,
gross score 90 net 70
David won 1st prize against Ian on a countback
on the back 9 holes.
Guest Prize, Kuslajit Prasobsamai handicap 19,
gross score 91, net 72
Nearest the Pin Winners,
Hole A4, Brian Callihoo
Hole A6, Alan Harris
Hole B12, Olivier Pinard
Hole B17, Frank Ullrich

10th June, STABLEFORD COMPETITION

1st Dave Hammond, Hcp 20, 43 points
2nd Maem Marungrong, Hcp15, 38 points
3rd Jean Berruyer, Hcp 16, 36 points
Guest Prize, Sidaras Naniyom, Hcp 29,
36 points
Nearest the Pin Winners
Hole A4, Ian Wooldridge
Hole A6, Didier Marchand
Hole B12, Didier Marchand
Hole B17, Jim Harvey

17th JUNE STABLEFORD COMPETITION

1st Paul Unthank, Hcp 10, 41 points
2nd Samaang Jandong, Hcp 36, 39 points
3rd Ayyub Mian, Hcp 23, 38 points
Guest Prize, Malai Bisang, Hcp 38, 38 points
Nearest the Pin Winners
Hole A4, Xavier Diana
Hole A6, Robert Jones
Hole B12, David Morris
Hole B17, Didier Marchand

The post Majestic’s Report appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life.

Q. Harald, it has been a difficult 2020 and 2021 for everyone in the golf industry. How have things been at Black Mountain Golf Club?

A. Yes, it has been a challenging time but we are weathering the storm well. I am delighted to say, as we speak, even though some local recreational facilities are closed during another period of restrictions, the golf course, driving range and restaurant are open – though no alcohol sales are allowed, of course.

Obviously, we are dependent on tourism, but international visitors are practically non-existent at-the-moment. Normally we would welcome visitors from Scandinavia, the UK, Germany and Switzerland but nobody wants to go through quarantine when they are on vacation. November would normally be our busiest period, but the numbers were drastically down last year.

However, on a more positive note we have been very encouraged by the relatively high traffic of visitors from Bangkok at the weekends domestic tourism during the pandemic has been surprisingly good. And, despite everything, we have continued to sell real estate and people are still taking up residence here.

Q. Black Mountain is a wonderful golfing oasis. Can you run through everything you have on site and explain the concept behind the project.

A. Everything here is under the Black Mountain umbrella. It’s all one golf community and obviously the heart of the whole community is the 27 hole golf course. We have a wealth of real estate options available –with condominiums, houses and villas – which continue to be constructed to meet demand.

As I said before, even now in the pandemic, we continue to receive property enquiries, with many people deciding that Black Mountain is right for them and subsequently becoming new house owners and golf club members. Most of the condos are now sold. We have 76 condos and about 100 houses.

The condos are two or three bedrooms, the villas are two to four bedrooms, so there are quite a large variety of siaes and specifications. Also we offer great value to prospective buyers. For example, on the West Course we currently are building Twinhouses along the fairway of the 1st hole where you are able to purchase a 4 bedroom property for the price of a 3 bedroom property.

We also have a resort comprising over 40 pool villas, which are two or three bedrooms, that we operate as a hotel. And, of course, we have so many facilities: the water park is probably the main one and there is also a sports area with tennis and volleyball courts. Guests staying on site have preferential access to all facilities.

Q. How does one become a member of the golf club?

A. A key part of the whole concept here is that golf club membership comes with the purchase of real estate – all of which overlooks the golf course. The concept is that golf club memberships are only available to property owners; everyone who is a member lives here in the Black Mountain residential community. This has been the plan from the beginning, and it has been very successful. We wanted to create a special and unique atmosphere for the members.

Q. Where do your residents come from?

A. In the beginning, as the investment for construction came from Sweden, property uptake heavily featured Swedish buyers, but over the years it has diversified. It is now mostly Europeans, Americans and Australians and of course some from Asia. It is very much a mix, but I would say 40% are Scandinavians.

Early on most were buying as a second home but now people are living here on a more permanent basis. We have an international school on site – not owned by Black Mountain but it is located here. So that is a big thing and means a lot of families have moved here. The school is from early years through to secondary education.

Q. Last year you became part of the Asian Tour Destinations network. The Tour is excited to have you on board. What is Black Mountain hoping to achieve with this tie up?

A. Well, let me start by saying that we have been close to the Asian Tour going back to when we started the project over a decade ago. And, of course, we have hosted many Asian Tour events but by becoming part of Asian Tour Destinations we hope to further grow the relationship through brand association, cross marketing and more importantly furthering ties with the other golf clubs who are part of the network. And we are already seeing some early benefits of this association even though it has been difficult to move forward with many strategies because of the pandemic.

The practice facilities are very popular here, they in very good shape all year round, so we have already seen some Asian Tour members here practicing and we look forward to welcoming more. Their presence is great for our residents; it helps elevate the overall atmosphere in all areas of the club. Something that few other golfing developments can offer.

Q. On that note, you have a number of high-profile professionals associated with Black Mountain. Who are they and what is the relationship?

A. I am delighted to say that all the professionals are actually residents at Black Mountain. Thongchai Jaidee and Jazz Janewattananond – both former Asian Tour number ones – and other Asian Tour winners Berry Henson and Simon Yates own property here, as do Johan Edfors and Rikard Karlberg – both winners on the European Tour. As with the Asian Tour members practising here, having this calibre of professionals live and play in and around the community is a wonderful feature.

Q. As you mentioned earlier, your venue is synonymous with hosting world-class tournaments. What has been the objective behind this, and will we see more Asian Tour events there in the future, when conditions permit?

A. We knew in the beginning we wanted to stage Tour events, and that came to fruition very quickly when we hosted the Black Mountain Masters in 2009, when Johan (Edfors) won. In addition to the Black Mountain Masters we also held the Thailand Classic, King’s Cup, and Royal Trophy here.

Essentially, hosting tournaments of this stature has been one of the main ways of marketing the whole Black Mountain project. The live television element is a very effective way to promote our course-side properties and reassure golfers worldwide of the quality of facilities to expect when visiting.

So, tournaments have really helped put us on the map and we have been really happy with the result. Certainly, we intend to host more events in the future.

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Over the past few weeks, 2 of our members managed to return to Thailand from the USA, welcome back to Brian Callihoo and Dana Lilja, it is good to see you both competing once again. The Golf Course remains in excellent condition, despite the fact that we have had very little rain over the past few months, so once again we congratulate the ground and maintenance staff, and all the other staff in and around the Clubhouse.

We still have restrictions related to the Covid-19 situation, and would remind all our members and guests taking part in our competitions that masks should be worn at all times, we also request that the seating arrangements in the clubhouse are complied with in order to protect us all.

The number of players taking part has increased over the last few weeks with 37 members and guests playing in the Stableford competition on courses A and B on the 13th May. Results of all the competitions listed below. Any player wishing to take part in our Thursday competition can register in the pro shop, or by email to; bookings@majesticcreekcc.com – Reservations to be made by Tuesday evening and your tee time will be sent to you on Wednesday morning.

Results as follows:

29th April, Stableford Competition. 25 Players taking part
1st Jean Berruyer. Hcp 18 – 45 points
2nd Barry Haig. Hcp 18 – 36 points
3rd Ian Wooldridge. Hcp 12 – 36 points. (Losing on countback)
Guest Prize
Rob Jones. Hcp 18 – 32 points

Nearest the pin
Hole A4 Jean Paul Capbern
Hole A6 Jean Paul Capbern
Hole B12 William Sulman

6th May Stableford Competition

17 players taking part
1st Frank Ullrich. Hcp 5 – 40 points
2nd Dave Hammond. Hcp 21 – 38 points
3rd Samaang Jandong. Hcp 37 – 35 points

Guest Prize
Rob Jones. Hcp 18 – 27 points

Nearest the pin
Hole A4 Olivier Pinard
Hole A6 Dave Hammond
Hole B12 Maem Morungrong
Hole B17 Frank Ullrich

13th May Stableford Competition. 37 players taking part

1st Ian Wooldridge. Hcp 12 – 40 points
2nd Jackie Crawford. Hcp 28 – 39 points
3rd David Morris. Hcp 18 – 38 points

Guest Prize
Sam Burns. Hcp 26 – 37 points

Nearest the pin
Hole A4 Dana Lilja
Hole A6 Niki Thong
Hole B12 Malai Bisang
Hole B17 Paul Unthank

20th May Stableford Competition

1st David Crawford. Hcp 18 – 38 points
2nd Pau Morris. Hcp 16 – 37 points
3rd David Morris. Hcp 19 – 36 points

Guest Prize
Niki Thong. Hcp 9 – 35 points

Nearest the pin
Hole A4 Rob Jones
Hole A6 Olivier Pinard
Hole B12 David Crawford
Hole B17 Ian Wooldridge

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We had a golfer who had played at our course on the weekend of 10th/11th April, who we found out had been tested positive and after careful investigation and with relevant consultation with the Local Authority, the management decided to send the relevant Caddies and their spouses, who are on our staff, home to quarantine for 14 days, during which time they would be tested for the Virus. In this respect the Local area health authority came to the course on 22nd, lead by Mr Prayong Chantateng, Hua Hin District Chief, together with local health officers and local administrative agencies.

They joined hands with Majestic Creek’s Management and staff to conduct a thorough cleaning process of the facilities, including the club House, Locker Rooms, Restaurant, Golf Carts and Garage, Kiosks, Resort and Swimming Pool. The Golf course was closed for 3 days, from the 16th April and reopened on Sunday 19th April.

The course is still in excellent condition and the results for our competitions are as follows.

25th March,
– 1st, Ian Wooldridge 39 points handicap 14
– 2nd Georges Santin 39 points handicap 16
– 3rd Dave Hammond 36 points handicap 22

Guest Prize
We had 4 guests playing and Rob Jones
41 points handicap 18 came first
Nearest the pins,
Hole A4 Olivier Pinard
Hole A6 Tim Mitchell

8th April,
– 1st Cecilia Harvey 38 points handicap 18
– 2nd Kirsty Mitchell 38 points handicap 19 (loosing on countback)
– 3rd Tony Southgate 38 points handcap 8 (losing on a countback)

Guest Prize
Rob Jones 40 points handicap 16

Nearest the Pins
Hole A4 Colin Cunningham
Hole A6 Pau Morris
Hole B12 Paul Unthank
Hole B17 Jim Harvey

Any players wishing to take part in our Weekly Competition, can register at the Pro Shop, or by email to; bookings@majesticcreekcc.com Please make your reservation by Tuesday Evening and your Tee Time will be sent to you on Wednesday morning. If you are not a member, please include your current playing handicap when registering.

COME AND ENJOY YOUR GOLFING AT MAJESTIC CREEK

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Thailand’s Tavatanakit, 21, shot a four-under 68 to complete a wire-to-wire victory at Rancho Mirage as she finished two clear of New Zealand’s Ko.

Ko set a tournament-record 29 on the front nine and matched Lorena Ochoa’s record low score for a round.

Tavatanakit is the first rookie to win the event since Juli Inkster in 1984.

“I just wanted to be done since this morning,” she said on Sunday, after claiming her first LPGA title.

“I didn’t get a lot of sleep last night, but I meditated twice this morning and just stayed patient. I knew I had to be really strong mentally.”

Ko, who won the tournament in 2016, made seven birdies and an eagle on the first 11 holes of the Dinah Shore course to threaten Tavatanakit’s lead.

However Ko – who became world number one aged 17 but who has been winless since April 2018 – made just one birdie in the final seven holes.

“It just shows it doesn’t matter how far back you are, you can always go for it,” added the two-time major winner, who had started the day eight shots adrift.

Ko’s bogey-free 62 was not enough to secure a ‘comeback’ title just hours after Jordan Spieth managed the feat in Texas, but it is the lowest final round in LPGA major history and suggests her rebuild with coach Sean Foley is close to bearing fruit.

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Minister of Tourism and Sports Phipat Ratchakitprakarn explained that the motivation behind the campaign is to reenergize a sector that has been badly hit by the COVID-19 pandemic: “Over the past year, Thailand and the world has been confronted by a global pandemic that has prevented tourists from travelling and so has had a negative impact on the industry and the economy as a whole.

“With the pandemic easing, the government has started to look at ways of reviving the industry from within, targeting the domestic market. Through collaboration with the Tourism and Sports Ministry, the Public Health Ministry and other sectors, the “Stay Play Safe” campaign has been devised to not only create awareness of the “Amazing Thailand Safety & Health Administration: SHA” hygienic standard certification, but also to help boost confidence among travellers and in turn revive the sector. A large number of players within the industry have been certified as SHA proprietors.

“The Ministry has long recognised the importance of the expatriate community as a sector with high purchasing power and with this in mind, the Department of Tourism, TAT, the Sports Authority of Thailand and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) or DASTA has come together to reestablish trust among the sector to help boost domestic tourism.”

TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications Mr. Tanes Petsuwan paid tribute to the efforts of the government, medical professionals and the public in suppressing the COVID-19 outbreak: “Because of successful collaboration between government, medical sector and the public, we have been able to relax a number of protective measures over the past few weeks.

“Throughout the pandemic TAT has continued to promote the sector among both the foreign and domestic tourist sectors, to ensure the Kingdom remains in the forefront of the minds of tourists. A number of events and activities have been staged throughout Thailand under the auspices of the TAT to convey the importance of Thai public health measures.

“Such events have included the Bangkok Green Lung tour, the Way of Life at Khung Bang Kachao festival which was staged on August 29 2020 to showcase the Thai traditional lifestyle near Bangkok in Phra Pradang District, Samut Prakarn; the Expat Fair 2020 (Expat Travel Deal 2020) at Quartier Gallery at The EmQuartier between September 11-13 2020; the Chiang Khan Travel to explore the charm of Leoi province between October 10-11 2020; and the Electric Boat Cruise Festival along the Damnoen Saduak Canal in Ratchaburi province on November 28 2020.”

In its latest attempt to stimulate domestic tourism, TAT hosted the Minister Cup 2021 on April 4.

It will also host the Amazing Thailand Expat Golf Tournament Series 2021 will be held on June 4 2021 at Siam Country Club Old Course in Chonburi. The event will be organized to promote domestic travel among the expatriate community.

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The game was not safe from suffering many other tournaments were lost including the Evian Championship. A women’s major and the senior’s circuit in Europe was washed out.

But as the first professional sport back after the pandemic golf generated a surplus of amazing storylines to delight fans far and wide.

So at a time when many are in need of a mood lift here are 5 reasons why golf made us merry in 2020:

Popov’s Troon triumph

In the one major to be played in the United Kingdom in 2020, Sophia Popov rushed to a thrilling victory at the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Troon. Arrived from the LPGA’s feeder circuit ranked only 304 in the world, and departed with one of the most esteemed trophies in the game.

Hail the DJ

Emotions also boiled to the surface for the regularly poker-faced Dustin Johnson as the men’s world number one cruised to a first Masters title and a Green Jacket he desired more than any other trophy.

In scoring terms Johnson’s golf was the best ever seen at Augusta, finishing 20 under par to break the Master’s record by two strokes.

Bryson breaks boundaries

Hard-hitting Bryson DeChambeau attracted attention beyond usual golfing boundaries after spending lockdown bulking up in dramatic fashion.

The 27-year-old American added three stones to his weight in nine months as he improved long driving techniques into the traditional game in a way many thought impossible.

Youngsters breaking through

But there is no stopping the drive of the younger force. This was the first full year in the professional game for Norway’s Viktor Hovland (23) and Americans Collin Morikawa (23) and Matthew Wolff (21).

The talented trio are all compelling to watch and ended 2020 inside the world’s top 15.

Experience counts

England’s Lee Westwood jumped a youthful trend that largely influences the game by showing that experience remains a valuable virtue.

The 47-year-old calmly won in Abu Dhabi at the start of the year and nervelessly claimed the runner-up spot at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship this month to secure a third Race to Dubai title in thrilling style, 20 years after he won his first.

Westwood was voted the circuit’s Player of the Year. Now he looks towards 2021 for a record-equalling 11th Ryder Cup appearance.

Source: www.bbc.com/sport

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Digital scoring apps look set to become the scoring method of choice as both club management and golfers alike warm to the benefits of a digital platform over the traditional paper scorecard. Golf’s governing bodies – the R&A and the USGA – encouraged the move to digital scoring in 2019 as they set about making golf more appealing to the younger generations.

The introduction of digital scoring pre-Covid turned out to be very fortunate in its timing. Since the start of the pandemic, there has been an unprecedented increase in online timesheet bookings and a growing number of clubs worldwide have seen scorecard use drop significantly.

Furthermore, the uptake of digital scoring has been prevalent across all age groups, further dispelling the myth that new technologies aren’t being embraced by older-generation club members.

Will digital scoring continue post-Covid? It certainly appears that digital scoring will overtake traditional scorecards post-pandemic.

A high percentage of clubs have reported between 80-95 percent of scores being submitted digitally, surprising many in the industry given that it is still optional for members to use paper scorecards.

Feedback in the form of over 1,600 survey forms, emails and phone calls has been overwhelmingly positive. The often-cited concern of older membership demographics has again been shown not to be a significant issue, with 80 percent of survey respondents being over 55 years of age.

To quote two enthusiasts of digital scoring: “Very easy to use once one gets used to the system. Will try the distance features next game as has been concentrating on using it correctly. At my age of 7 I find it very helpful. My various playing partners have also found it great & prefer it to cards. Some did both for a couple of games but now digitally only.”

“I like it a lot. I never want to use a pencil and a scorecard again. It’s simple and seems to operate logically, at least for me. Don’t make it too complicated if you make changes. I don’t have any recommendations.”

By Hua Hin Today

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The Triskele Trophy 2020
Date: Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August 2020
Location: Black Mountain & Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin

EVENT FORMAT
• Individual: Stableford (Prizes 1ST/ 2ND/ 3RD)
• Team: Beat Two Stableford Scores per Fourball

PRICE
THB 8,600 per player
EARLY BIRD RATE: THB 7,600 per player – available for players registered and paid before 15th July 2020
• Further discounts available for Banyan and Black Mountain Golf Club Members
• Additional Stay & Play & Travel Packages are also available.

 INCLUSIONS
• Welcome Party with Snacks, Drinks & Live Music
• 1 Round of Golf at Black Mountain
• 1 Round of Golf at Banyan Golf Club
• Caddie Fees on both days
• All local transfers
• Free Flow Adult beverages
• “Fenix XCell” Tournament Shirt on arrival
• Saturday Night Dinner Buffet, Charity Raffle & Live Music
• Sunday Gala Lunch & Award Ceremony
• Waterford Crystal Trophies for the winning Players
• Prizes for 1ST/ 2ND/ 3RD individual stableford scores over 36 holes
• Team prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd placed teams
• Novelty: Hole in One Challenge, Nearest the Pin, Longest Putt, Whiskey Hole games & competitions daily

REGISTER HERE:
https://thetriskeletrophy-fore.golfgenius.com/

Contact us now for more information:
2020@thetriskeletrophy.com
events@foremanagement.com

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As defending champion Woods gets to host and choose the menu for the exclusive pre-tournament gathering of past winners and the Augusta National chairman on the Tuesday of Masters week. The food is usually revealed just days before the tournament’s start as the world’s best golfers gather at Augusta, with this year’s Masters’ starting on April 9.

The 44-year-old won his fifth Masters green jacket and first major since 2008 in a remarkable comeback last year and has echoed the menu from his fourth Augusta win in 2006.

“Born and raised in Southern California, and with it playing a part of my entire childhood, we’ll be having steak and chicken fajitas, plus sushi and sashimi out on the deck,” Woods told reporters in a pre-Masters conference call. “We’re still debating milkshakes.”

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Footage of Reed’s actions on the 11th hole at Albany resulted in the rules officials informing the 29-year-old of his punishment during a five-minute post-round discussion.

Reed claimed to have been totally unaware of the affair until that point. The Rules of Golf allow players to ground their club in waste areas but they cannot improve their capability to play a shot by “removing or pressing down sand or loose soil.” Rule 8 covers a central principle of the game: “play the course as you find it.”

When the player’s ball comes to rest, he or she normally has to accept the conditions affecting the stroke and not improve them before playing the ball. To support this principle the Rule restricts what a player may do to improve any of these protected “conditions affecting the stroke” (anywhere on or off the course) for the next stroke the player will make: Reed broke Rule 8.1a4, which states that golfers cannot “Remove or press down sand or loose soil” to improve the conditions affecting the stroke. Reed remained adamant he did nothing wrong knowingly and that a single camera angle, from behind and which twice shows the Texan flicking sand during practice swings, is deceptive.

“It was in a full footprint and I felt my club was that far behind the ball when I was taking a practice swing,” Reed said. “It was obviously hitting a bit of sand, though I didn’t feel any drag. But when they brought it up for me [on the TV] I definitely saw it drag and, because of that, it is a two-shot penalty even though I didn’t feel like it would have affected my lie.

“I don’t ever put the club directly behind the ball in a situation like that as I am scared of it moving. Intent is a big part but with only one camera angle it is a 50-50 battle when you are being assessed for anything like that.

I told them there was no intent and it was far enough away from the ball, but they didn’t have another camera angle to show that and they felt it might have been improving the lie.” Reed, who was three shots from the lead held by Gary Woodland in the Bahamas with 18 holes to play, appeared perfectly calm when discussing the scenario.

“At the end of the day you have got to let things roll off your shoulders and I still have one round to play tomorrow,” he said. “If I stew over something, it is my word against their word and because they only have one camera angle, I don’t really have a choice. After seeing it brush some sand, they thought that was a breach and, in the Rules of Golf, if you improve your lie, it is a penalty.

At the end of the day you have to accept it and move on.” Slugger White, the PGA Tour’s vice president of rules and competitions, who issued Reed with the two strokes. He said: “I don’t know if he could have seen it as clearly as we did but he could not have been a better gentleman. Intent would not matter here, that’s not in the mix.”

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