golf jamaica volume 4
DESCRIPTION
The most exciting Golf destination in the Caribbean!TRANSCRIPT
World’s Oldest Caddy?
3 Different Stances:Which Should You Use?
SANTA: Seeing a Need…Taking Action
Jamaican Golf on theInternational Stage
Caribbean AmateurGolf Championships
Jamaica & Sport Tourism
In This Issue:
Volume 4
The most exciting Golf destination in the Caribbean!
2 0 1 5
Hold on to summer.
Photos of summer will be shared and tucked away, but in PANDORA charms, your moments in the sun shine on. Capture the spirit of this summer’s adventures in our latest collection at PANDORA.net.
Falmouth • Ocho RiosMontego Bay • Kingston
Caymanas
Half Moon
Runaway Bay
White Witch
IronshoreConstant Spring
Negril Hills
Tryall Club
Cinnamon Hill
Manchester
Sandals
Our
Courses
*Based on double occupancy at IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Book 5-7 nights based on double occupancy and receive two complimentary rounds per person. Book 3-4 nights based on double occupancy and receive one complimentary round per person. Not redeemable for cash. Non transferable. Black-out dates and additional restrictions may apply. Entire offer is based on availability. Offer subject to change without notice. IBEROSTAR does not assume responsibility for errors or omissions within the content of this advertisement.
The AAA Four Diamond IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall is a golfer’s dream with a choice of two of the Caribbean’s most spectacular and challenging courses. Cinnamon Hill’s 18 holes of mountain vistas, shoreline holes and ancient aqueduct hold a rich history that includes famed poetry and movie-making. The White Witch is considered one of the finest courses in the Caribbean, rated as the #1 Golf Course and #1 in Golf Shop Staff service by Conde Nast Traveler. It’s a vacation of adults-only, all-inclusive luxury, with personalized butler service, specialty restaurants, a world-class spa and full-service, all-inclusive golf. Experience a resort paradise and a golf paradise all in one stunning location.
Montego Bay, JAMAICAContact your favorite travel professional or visit iberostar.com
All-inclusive luxury now gives you a choice of two spectacular courses.
IBEROSTAR GRAND HOTEL ROSE HALLStay 5+ nights*, receive 2 complimentary golf rounds at Cinnamon Hill or White Witch
Stay 3-4 nights, receive 1 complimentary round
IB14_204_9x11.75ad.indd 1 9/30/14 1:34 PM
Clar endon
Negril Aerodrome
Negril Hills Golf Club
The Manchester Club
Runaway Bay Golf Club
Tryall Club
Donald Sangster International Airport
St. James
HanoverTrelawney
Manchester
Westmoreland
St. Elizabeth
Our JamaicaGolf Courses • Air Transport • Attractions
1 2 3 4
Download Golf Jamaica at www.golfjamaicamag.com
1. Ironshore Golf & Country Club
2. Half Moon Golf Course
3. White Witch Golf Course
4. Cinnamon Hill Golf Course
Montego Bay Courses
BLACK RIVER
Y.S. FALLS
MONTEGO BAY
RUNAWAY BAY
Norman ManleyInternational Airport
Ian FlemingInternational Airport
Tinson Pen Aerodrome
Sandals Golf & Country Club
Constant Spring Golf Club
Caymanas Golf & Country Club
St. MarySt. Ann
Clar endonSt. Catherine
St. Andrew
Portland
St. Thomas
Kingston
KEY
Ken Jones Aerodrome
PO
RT R
OYA
L
DUNNS RIVER FALLS
OCHO RIOS
MYSTIC
MOUNTAIN
CHUKKA COVE
FERN GULLY
PORT ANTONIO
ATTRACTION
GOLF COURSE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
AERODROME
When people think of Jamaica, the first images that come to mind are sun, sea and sand, but the name is also synonymous with dynamic music, rich cultural traditions, world-class athletes and unrivalled natural beauty.
The golf courses continue to be ranked among the best in the Caribbean, with challenging and breathtaking layouts designed by renowned golf course architects. An acknowledged hub for international tournaments, Jamaica has played host to several premier events in 2014. In 2015, the country will once again welcome a prestigious regional event, the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships in which ten islands will compete.
As Jamaica looks at ways to increase foreign exchange earnings, the importance of sports tourism is a key factor in paving the way to economic development.
We invite you to take a pictorial trip through golf courses, which showcase Jamaica and her diverse offerings.
You can also download Golf Jamaica at www.golfjamaicamag.com.
A World Class Golf Destination
JamaicaWhat’s Inside
Come to
CREDITSPublisher - MAPCO Printers Limited
Editor - Joy Campbell
Consultant Golf Professional - Spencer Edwards
Graphic Design - McMedia Graphics
Art Director - Nicholas McClure
Photography - Nicholas Chai Chong (Caymanas, Constant Spring, Manchester, Runaway Bay and Negril courses)
Other photos courtesy of Half Moon, Cinnamon Hill, White Witch, Sandals, Runaway Bay, Ironshore and The Jamaica Tourist Board
Advertising Sales - Shelly-Ann Dunkley, [email protected]
MAPCO Printers Ltd. makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of information given but accepts no responsiblity for errors or omissions or for claims made in any section of this publication. All material in this publication is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means without written approval from MAPCO Printers Ltd.
1 Montego Bay Courses2 Cinnamon Hill4 Half Moon8 Ironshore10 Tryall14 White Witch16 Ansel Millington Warren - Oldest Caddy in the World?
19 Ocho Rios Courses20 Sandals22 Runaway Bay
Features29 Calendar of Golf Events 201530 The Expert’s Eye: 3 Different Stances - What Stance Should You Use?
32 Jamaica & Sports Tourism
34 Golf Professionals
Manchester Course36 Manchester
Negril Course38 Negril Hills
41 Kingston Courses42 Caymanas44 Constant Spring46 Jamaican Golf on the International Stage47 Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships48 Inaugural Junior Golf Summer Camp49 Buccaneers for Charity50 SANTA - Seeing A Need… Taking Action
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MontegoBay
Courses
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Cinnamon Hill
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Cinnamon HillCinnamon Hill was once part of a sugar plantation and one of the fascinating features of this golf course is an aqueduct built in 1761 that was used in the process of grinding sugar. Originally designed by Hank Smedley in 1969, Cinnamon Hill was given a facelift in 2001 by Von Hagge and Baril.
The front nine is designed so that golfers are at the mercy of coastal winds. The back nine features bunkers that can be treacherous to the adventurous golfer.
The course has been ranked among Jamaica’s finest by Golf Digest and is also known for its caddies, which have been listed among the best in the world by Golfer Magazine.
Golf Course Professional: Sebert Walker
Cinnamon Hill Golf CourseBox 1 Rose Hall PO
Rose Hall, St. James
Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 953-2984
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.cinnamonhilljamaica.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBACK 6828 74.2 136MIDDLE 6350 71.9 134FORWARD 5208 66.0 118LADIES 5840 74.4 135
Annie’s Revenge
Caribbean Golf Association Classic
JACI Golf Tournament
Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships
Jamaica Open
MOJO 6 LPGA Event
Ocean Style Golf Classic Tournament
Tournaments Hosted:
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Home to the Jamaica Open
5
Half Moon
Half MoonDesigned by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Sr. and renovated by Roger Rulewich, the Half Moon is an award-winning resort course that boasts breathtaking views, gently undulating fairways and greens. The Golf Academy was launched in 2008 and provides a variety of coaching programmes tailored to the needs of individual golfers.
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Celebrity Players Tour Jamaica Classic
Dunhill Cup Final of the Americas
European PGA Seniors Tournament
Jamaica Open Golf Championship
National Match Play Tournament Finals
Red Stripe Pro-Am
Tournaments Hosted:
Half Moon has been home to the JAMAICA OPEN—the Caribbean’s most prestigious golf tournament—for over eight years and has hosted a number of international golf events. This challenging course is also a member of the Great Resorts of the World.
Golf Course Professional: Spencer Edwards
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Half Moon Golf CourseHalf Moon, A RockResort
Rose Hall
Jamaica W.I.
(876) 953 -2211 or (876) 953 -2560
website: www.halfmoongolf.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingCHAMPIONSHIP 7141 75.1 131COMPETITION 6581 72.1 129GENTLEMEN’S 6233 68.3 117LADIES 5835 74.2 134Ladies, Seniors & Juniors
5030 64.4 114
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IronshoreGolf & Country Club
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Ironshore Golf & Country ClubWhitter Group
1139 Morgan Rd, Ironshore
Montego Bay, Jamaica W.I.
P: (876)953-3682 F: (876) 953-9619
Email: [email protected]
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingCHAMPION 6570 71.5 122REGULAR 6285 69.9 117LADIES 5384 70.6 116
Ironshore Golf CourseThe Ironshore Golf & Country Club sits adjacent to prime housing developments and is known for its undulating fairways and dogleg setup. The course offers impressive views of the Caribbean Sea and a low-lying range of hills adds to the delightful scenery.
The course was designed by Canadian Robert Moot and built in 1972 and was originally part of a sugar plantation. The charm of the course comes from its Australian Pine, lush vegetation and greens protected by well-placed bunkers.
Caribbean Golf Association Classic
Tournaments Hosted:
The10
Tryall Club
Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf
LPGA/Senior PGA Mazda Championship
LPGA Jamaica Classic
Johnnie Walker World Championship
Tournaments Hosted:
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The Tryall ClubP.O. Box 1206
Montego Bay, St. James
Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 956-5660
Website: www.tryallclub.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBACK 6836 74.1 136MIDDLE 6352 71.5 131FORWARD 5382 67.7 125LADIES 5155 70.6 122
The Tryall ClubTexan golf course architect Ralph Plummer is the designer of the Tryall Club, which incorporates the island’s hilly terrain and other natural elements for a unique golfing experience. Nine holes wind along the Caribbean Sea coast, while the others meander through lush hillsides.
In 2005, Tryall was voted the Best Golf Course in the Caribbean by Caribbean World Magazine. The course offers a range of dramatic views from elevated tees.Tryall has also hosted a number of LPGA events, as well as the prestigious Johnny Walker World Championships.
Golf Course Professional: Ewan Peebles
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Ad placement
PROVEN
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White WitchCourse
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Box 1 Rose Hall PO
Rose Hall, St. James
Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 632-7444-5
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://whitewitchgolf.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBLACK 6758 74 139BLUE 6365 72.2 135WHITE 5093 70.2 128RED 5397 73.2 126
White Witch Course
The White Witch Golf Course was so named by the architects Robert von Hagge and Rick Baril, in honour of Annie Palmer, the 19th century owner of the original plantation on which the course is built. The course has been described as ‘allur-ingly dangerous and unpredictable’ by von Hagge. Opened in 2000, the White Witch course was crafted from 600 acres of lush countryside, including mountainous terrain.
Golfers are afforded panoramic views of land and sea from 16 holes and are best advised to be on guard as shifting winds make play challenging.
Golf Course Professional: Damian Stewart
Annie’s Revenge
CGA Classic
IFJG World Junior Golf Championships
JACI Golf Tournament
Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf
Tournaments Hosted:
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Ansel Millington Warren
Could this manbe the oldest
caddy in the world…?
On December 25th, 2014, Ansel Warren will be celebrating his 90th birthday. This gentle and charming man is endearing to all who encounter him. With a heart-warming smile and a willingness to serve, Ansel is always ready and waiting to welcome his returning guests to the Half Moon Golf Course where he has caddied for more than 32 years.
Born on Christmas Day in 1924, we believe that at age 89, Ansel could be the oldest caddy in the world and he still carries the golf bag when he’s required to. The golf course and the game of golf have changed so much from the first day he looked across at the golf course being opened 50 years ago in 1964. There’s an interesting story here and we hope you enjoy it…
Ansel remembers his days of working at the West Indies Sugar Company at Frome which is ironic as the land on which the golf course is laid out was formerly prime sugar-growing land! In the early 1960’s, Ansel was employed as a supervisor of eight men working to help shape and construct the golf course that Robert Trent Jones senior designed. Each time he watched the players on the course, he was intrigued, and vowed that one day, if the Lord permitted, he would seize the opportunity and try his hand at golfing on this wonderful-looking golf course. Before that day came, he was part of the team that built the original golf club house and five of the large houses, known as Spring Farm, that overlook the golf course. He also looked after Mr. John Rollins’ cows that at times would break through the fence on to the golf course. The pull of the golf course did not abate and it was at the 1982 Jamaica Open at Half Moon that Ansel received a request to assist in the tournament as a caddy and from that moment onward, his life changed.
For the past 32 years, Ansel has been there with the best of the best, providing ongoing support, strategizing, giving tips and being the consummate professional. Half Moon has a strong history of celebrities, royalty and senators as their guests.
President Bush just happened to be one such lucky golfer to re-ceive a golf tip from Ansel. He also enjoys meeting people from all walks of life and Director of Golf, Spencer Edwards shared with us that he constantly receives guest requests for Ansel to be their caddy.
Ansel has passed on his love for the game to his descendants, all of whom are fine golfers beating old man par on a regular basis. The finest of these golfers is Ansel’s son, Dermot Paul Warren, Pablo as he is better known to his friends. Pablo is possibly Jamaica’s finest golfer at age 46 and worthy of a story about himself. Ansel’s grandson, Michael Smith is Half Moon’s Assistant Caddy Master, his grandsons Ainsley (Bruce) Palmer and Dwayne Wilson are also top-class golfers and engaged at Half Moon as caddies.
Not many golf courses can boast of having what could be the oldest caddy in the world. Half Moon has such a caddy in Ansel Millington Warren. We certainly would like to know from our readers if there is an older caddy out there today that could compete with Ansel.
About Half Moon, A RockResort
Half Moon is a 400-acre luxury resort located on Jamaica’s North Coast. The 59-year-old resort features two miles of pri-vate, white-sand beach with 197 spacious rooms and suites. Additionally, the AAA Four-Diamond resort offers 31 expansive four-, five-, six- and seven-bedroom villas all with private pools and personal staff of butler, cook and housekeeper. In addi-tion to spacious accommodations, Half Moon offers guests a wide variety of amenities and activities including the multi-award winning Fern Tree Spa, a Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed 18-hole golf course, Half Moon Golf Academy, Spinning® studio, 13 lit tennis courts, equestrian centre, fitness centre, 54 swim-ming pools, a teen activity centre, the colourful Anancy Chil-dren’s Village, water sports, dolphin lagoon, shopping village, including 24-hour medical centre and more.
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Couples Resorts
2012
®
®
Courses
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Ocho Rios
Golf & Country Club
20
Sandals
G O L F & C O U N T R Y C L U B
Jamaica • West Indies
G O L F & C O U N T R Y C L U B
Jamaica • West Indies
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Sandals Golf & Country ClubP.O. Box 771
Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 975-0119 Fax: (876) 975-0196
Website: www.sandals.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBLUE 6405 70.9 128WHITE 6054 69.9 125RED 4961 69.3 120
G O L F & C O U N T R Y C L U B
Jamaica • West Indies
G O L F & C O U N T R Y C L U B
Jamaica • West Indies
Sandals Golf and Country ClubOnce a nine-hole course, the Sandals Golf & Country Club (formerly known as Upton Golf Course) was extended in the 1960’s to an 18-hole resort-style layout that is popular with both tourists and Jamaicans. Designed by P.K. Saunders, the course opened in 1951 and was added to the Sandals family in 1992. The layout offers challenges such as gently undulating fairways and compact greens.
Although chock-full of scenic views, golfers should exercise caution as the Sandals course demands precision. Among its other facilities, Sandals boasts a shagging area and practice putting green.
Golf Professional: Bill Williams
Panasonic Championship
Sandals Celebrity Golf Tournament
Tournaments Hosted:
Golf Club
RunawayBay
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Runaway Bay Golf CourseThe Runaway Bay Golf Course was designed in 1960 by Englishman, Major John Harris. The fairways are lengthy and the greens guarded by bunkers.
The Golf Academy provides lessons for both new and seasoned golfers, and welcomes visiting teaching professionals year round.
This par-72 Championship course has seen many premium events such as a Ryder Cup Match, the Heineken World Cup Qualifier and the JAMAICA OPEN.
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CNBC Nations Cup
Heineken World Cup Qualifier
Jamaica Open
Tournaments Hosted:
Runaway Bay Golf ClubRunaway Bay, St. Ann
Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 973-7319
Website: www.jewelresorts.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBACK 6870 73.6 124MIDDLE 6487 N/R N/RLADIES 5563 72.5 120
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JANUARYSun 11th Friendly Lodge CAY
Jan 15-18 5th Annual Tryall Invit. Pro-Am TA
Jan 17 Junior/Adult Scramble SAN
Sat 24th Quarterly Scramble CAY
Sun 25th Scramble / Interclub Championship CAY
Sat 31st AISK Tournament CSGC
JULYSat 4th - Sun 5th Mid Island Championships MAN
Sun 12th Scottish Freemason's Charity CHILL
Sat 18th Matthew Lee Memorial CSGC
Sun 26th CAGC 2015
FEBRUARYSun 8th Barrington Miller Lodge MAN
Sat 14th CSGC Match Play Championship CSGC
Sat 21st JGA Flights Classic CAY
Sun 22nd JGA Flights Classic CAY
Sat 28th Captain's Drive In CSGC
AUGUSTSat 1st CAGC Ends/Emancipation Day
Sat 8th - Sun 9th Independence 36 SAN
Sat 29th Quarterly Scramble TBA
Sun 30th Interclub Championship TBA
MARCHSun 8th Interclub Championship TBA
Sat 14th Heart Foundation of Jamaica CSGC
Sat 21st JGA Flights Classic CSGC
Sun 22nd JGA Flights Classic CSGC
Sun 29th Rotary Club of Kingston CAY
APRILSat 4th - Sun 5th Easter Jamboree RBAY
Apr 3-5 Junior Golf Trials CAY
Sun 12th St. Andrew Care CAY
Sat 18th Munro Old Boys' Association CSGC
Sun 19th Junior Cup TBA
Sat 25th Quarterly Scramble TBA
Sun 26th Interclub Championships TBA
SEPTEMBERSat 26th Kiwanis Club of Downtown
KingstonCSGC
MAYSat 2nd Campion College CAY
Sun 3rd Junior Cup MAN
Sat 9th Methodist Church Charity CAY
Sat 16th Kiwanis Club of North St. Andrew CSGC
Sun 17th Junior Cup TBA
May 21-24 National Amateur Championship CAY
Sat 30th Junior Cup TBA
– CGA Classic TBA
OCTOBERSat 3rd - Sun 4th CSGC 36 CSGC
Sat 17th - Sun 18th Heroes' Weekend Classic CHILL
Sat 24th Phoenix Lodge CSGC
Sun 25th Quarterly Scramble TBA
Sat 31st Interclub Championships TBA
Ocean Style Golf Classic TBA
JUNEJune 4-7 National Trials TBA
Sun 14th Interclub Championship TBA
Sun 28th Manchester Golf Week MAN
NOVEMBER– Annie’s Revenge WW
– Caribbean Cup RBAY
Sun 8th Kiwanis Club of New Kingston CAY
Sat 21st - Sun 22nd Alliance Memorial CAY
Fri 27th Annual Homeowners' Scramble TA
DECEMBERDec 2-6 JAMAICA OPEN HM
Sun 6th SANTA CSGC
Sun 13th Christmas Hamper CAY
Sat 19th Christmas Hamper CSGC
Calendar of Golf Events 2015
Please note dates are subject to change
KEY
CAY - Caymanas Golf & Country Club
CHILL - Cinnamon Hill Golf Club
CSGC - Constant Spring Golf Club
HM - Half Moon Club
MAN - Manchester Club
RBAY - Runaway Bay Golf Club
SAN - Sandals Golf & Country Club
TA - Tryall Club
TBA - To be Announced
Discover the best stance to improve your drives and game…
With a stance that suits your style of swing and your flexibility, you could improve your distance, control and your ball striking. It may even relieve pressure from your lower back.
The positioning of your feet will have a huge influence over the way your body can or can’t move. It’s important that we rotate our shoulders enough to encourage the club to swing freely. Your stance should promote stability as well as encourage a free flowing swing of the club.
Most golf instruction articles suggest a shoulder turn of 90 degrees. You will rarely see a big hitting Tour Professional rotate their shoulders less than 100 degrees and in many cases they will often rotate as much as 110 degrees!!!
So which stance best suits YOU???
1. RIGHT FOOT SQUARE
This is often for the young and flexible golfer and used by Tiger Woods (Picture 1).
Tiger Woods was SO flexible in his early years on tour that he was encouraged to position his right foot pointing straight forward, this helped to keep his swing under control and prevent him from over rotating in the back swing.
The Expert’s Eye
StancesDifferent3
1
30
Which stance should you be using?
2 3
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2. BOTH FEET TURNED OUT EVENLY AT 30 DEGREES
This will suit the majority of golfers (Picture 2).
Ernie Els was encouraged by David Leadbetter to turn both feet out evenly at 30 degrees. This is a more natural stance and with the right foot splayed out to match the left, you will now feel that you can turn freely in both the back swing and through swing.
3. A Closed Stance
This is for the more senior golfer and those golfers with restricted flexibility (Picture 3).
Gary Player at the Seniors Open Championship a few years ago explained how he had gained 30 yards of distance with his driver. He said that he simply pulled his right foot back and splayed it out more than normal. This helped him to not only create a full shoulder turn again but also gave his hands more opportunity to close the club during the down swing.
Gary Player turned his gentle fade into a stronger more powerful draw shot, the 30 yards of extra distance was all achieved by re-positioning his right foot.
Remember, there are many ways in which we can swing a golf club.
The perfect golf swing does exist and a good coach will help you find the swing that is perfect for you.
If you would like to improve your game, Half Moon offers you the best practice and coaching experience in Jamaica, so why not stop by and allow us to help you find your best golf game.
Best of luck with your golf,
Director of GolfHalf Moon ResortE-mail: [email protected]
The Half Moon Golf Range and Academy welcomes you!55 range balls for $5.00Golf Range and Practice Facility fee $7.50Golf Membership at the Half Moon is available Telephone 1 - 876 - 953 - 2211 to find out more
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The sport business changes every day and with the competition even more fierce in the boardroom than on the field of play, one has to be aware of the ‘matters arising’. So much has changed in the last five years. It is absolutely necessary for officials to keep in touch with the trends, forecasts and proposed outcomes in this massive industry.
Sport means different things to different people, but those who want to have a grasp on what is going on may want to speak to a few persons. Some like sport because it provides an opportunity for gambling while some simply want recreation. In examining those two different perspectives, one wants to win and that act of gambling is a game itself; while the other would like to be able to hike, walk, cycle, run a 5K or ski maybe just for fun.
The point is though, the many areas of the sport business creates an opportunity for an entire population to participate. Here is how – the business itself focuses on value of teams, value of sponsor investment, money made from tickets, advertising through media, endorsements, sales at venues where major events are held and in more recent times, the sport equipment consumers purchase as the fitness/wellness/healthy living lifestyles become more prominent. That in fact covers a wide cross-section of any population.
In Jamaica for instance, the sporting areas most associated with any measure of success include football, cricket, track and field, netball and basketball – those attract the biggest crowds to date, hence they are considered major sports. If the franchise model is used, we should be able to calculate the investment made across the board in the five sporting areas in terms of
• national teams
• club and/or parish teams
• collegiate teams
• high school teams
• other teams
Jamaica& Sport Tourism
If these institutions keep accurate records, then it would not be difficult to ascertain the numbers and be able to start offering better estimates of what the Jamaican sporting industry really does value. I have deliberately left out horseracing which can be addressed at some other point. Needless to say, its figures would surpass all the ones listed previously.
International Trends
Plunkett Research in the USA states that –
Sports are big business. Combined, the “Big 4” leagues in America, the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Hockey League (NHL) and Major League Baseball (MLB), bring in about $23 billion in revenue during a typical year, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. U.S. sporting equipment sales at retail sporting goods stores are $42.6 billion yearly, according to U.S. government figures. A reasonable estimate of the total U.S. sports market would be $440 to $470 billion yearly. However, the sports industry is so complex, including ticket sales, licensed products, sports video games, collectibles, sporting goods, sports-related advertising, endorsement income, stadium naming fees and facilities income, that it’s difficult to put an all-encompassing figure on annual revenue. When researching numbers in the sports industry, be prepared for apparent contradictions. For example, the NFL receives vastly more money each year for TV and cable broadcast rights than MLB, despite the fact that MLB teams play about 10 times more games each year than NFL teams.
This contradiction though is supported by the power of a Brand – NFL has more key star personalities than the MLB at this stage and even with more games, the pull of the NFL is stronger. We reflect on the NBA as with the continued personality competition between Kevin Durrant and Lebron James – that is helping the NBA right
now. Just reflect on when Michael Jordan retired and you will understand. The MLB in recent times has been riddled with way too much controversy i.e. Alex Rodriquez and his shenanigans have created ‘doubt’ in consumers’ minds – even though the games are still well supported, media has not been able to transfer the excitement of the game even through advertising. The MLB may best try to ‘find’ a personality to re-assert the league in a more positive way.
The Jamaican sporting industry may lead the Caribbean in terms of what the perception is to the world and the personalities are better known. Does the country though research its data to be able to inform its people of the opportunities that exist and how it can actually add to business and employment opportunities? The recommendations are:
• Tertiary level institutions should get more involved in research, development and innovation
• The already established officials should enhance their current base and widen scope by adding certification in related sport areas – management, science, marketing, legal
• Once and for all, a proper stadium facility is needed
• Teachers’ College should have Physical Education in their curriculum to teach at the Primary level
Jamaica’s advantage lies, at the moment, in the rich history of sport and the content is super-valuable. Its packaging is therefore key and with media outlets looking for unique content, maybe it is time that approach is taken. The platforms available for content are radio, television, mobile, games and big screens.
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Top Proson Display
Jamaica’s34
Golfers the world over, are known for challenging themselves to improve the quality of their game. Whether at home or on vacation, an avid player will seize the opportunity to spend time on the golf course. Jamaica is known for its array of breathtaking and – in some cases – tricky courses.
Our local golfers gear themselves up for various events by having lessons with a selection of talented professionals. Some players simply want to improve their swing, others wish to gain distance and shave strokes off their golf score, and the serious competitors strive for all-round improvement. Whether based in Kingston or on the North Coast, golfers have access to golf professionals who excel at what they do.
Clive Clayton – Caymanas Golf & Country Club
Since 1967, Clive Clayton—golf professional at the Caymanas Golf & Country Club—has been involved in the sport of golf. He started playing at an early age and went on to caddy at age fifteen. As his skill at the game grew, he began winning tourna-ments, became an approved player and then graduated to the pro ranks.
Clayton spent time under the tutelage of Caleb Haye (past golf pro at Tryall) and Bill Greenleef (PGA Master Professional), learning how to coach the sport. Since then, Clayton has been instrumental in coaching the students in the In-the-City Programme that was run by the Jamaica Golf Association. In 1990, he became the professional at Caymanas and in 1997 assumed the role of greens keeper. Today, he still performs dual roles at the club. Calm and jovial, Clayton’s patience and love of the sport is evident to those members and guests he coaches.
For those who wish to improve their game, lessons can be booked through the pro shop at Caymanas.
Jason Lopez – Constant Spring Golf Club
Jason Lopez opened the modern and innovative Swing Solutions, a golf studio and driving range in partnership with the Constant Spring Golf Club. The golf school ca-ters to both juniors and regular golfers in the capital city. Lopez has been involved in the game since he was six years of age. He represented Jamaica at a national level for six (6) years and earned a golf scholarship to Florida State University. He turned professional in 2001, played on several tours and then returned to Jamaica in 2006 at which time he started the Jason Lopez School of Golf.
Appointments can be made with Jason Lopez (head golf professional), Fabian Campbell (assistant golf professional) or Ian Christie (assistant golf professional) by calling 876 469-2022.
Sebert Walker – Cinnamon Hill
Sebert Walker was introduced to golf at thirteen years of age through caddying at the Caymanas Golf & Country Club. He improved his game through association and friendship with Kenute Swaby and Norman Marsh—a past JAMAICA OPEN Champion—and by competing in various events. His professional career began at the Ironshore Golf Course in 1991 and Walker has served as President of the PGA of Jamaica. He is a certified golf instructor and has worked with the Faldo Golf Schools–Naples and Seaview from 2007-2009. He is the Head Golf Professional at Cinnamon Hill.
Bookings for lessons with Walker can be made through the club at the breathtaking Cinnamon Hill course, where he also oversees the Junior Golf Programme.
Spencer Edwards – Half Moon Club
In his role as Director of Golf at the prestigious Half Moon, a RockResort, Spencer Edwards is committed to helping golfers develop their best game and realize their full potential. A former European Tour player and British PGA Qualified Golf Professional, Edwards assumed his role at Half Moon in 2011.
Edwards is in a unique position to take golfers’ games to the next level, having coached three Ryder Cup players and helped more than a dozen European Tour winners.
Lessons with Edwards can be booked through the Half Moon Golf Academy, which serves new and experienced golfers.
Byron Bernard – Half Moon Club
Our Golf Professional Byron Bernard joined the Half Moon team in 1972. Having started out as the Caddy Master, it was a natural progression to becoming a Golf Professional. Inspired by watching Chuck Thorpe’s course record round of 63, Byron studied the game of golf profes-sionals and developed his knowledge and skills.
Byron’s proven coaching method is evident in the good golf swing of his younger brother Er-nest. From coaching beginners and children, to enhancing the game of Prince Reiner
Why not enjoy a coaching experience of a life time from Jamaica’s most experienced golf coach? Byron understands how important it is to use coaching formulas that best suit your learning style. You can be sure of Byron keeping his delivery simple and effective.
Bill Williams – Sandals Golf & Country Club
A veteran at the game of golf, Bill Williams has been involved in the sport for 34 years. He be-gan playing the game at age 20 and was first exposed to the sport through caddying. He has worked with several golf professionals, including Seymour Rose and Attila Becsy (Canadian), who taught him how to coach the sport. Over the years, Williams has been instrumental in helping to improve the game of some of the island’s top golfers.
Currently, he runs the junior golf programme at Sandals Golf & Country Club and also gives les-sons to guests from the Sandals resorts and other properties.
Ewan Peebles – Tryall Club
With top ten finishes in the 2009 & 2010 JAMAICA OPEN, as well as being the 2006, 2007 & 2011 Player of the Year on the local professional circuit, Ewan Peebles knows the lay of the land in Jamaica. Peebles’ teaching and golf management career in Jamaica began in 2002, which means that he has brought a wealth of experience to the magnificent Tryall Club.
Lessons may be booked with Peebles through the golf shop at Tryall on a course which provides a rich learning experience for those who wish to enjoy a taste of golf in an exotic setting.
Damian Stewart – White Witch Golf Course
A thirteen-year journey culminated with Damian Stewart being appointed Head Golf Profes-sional at the White Witch Golf Course in November, 2013. Stewart came to golf from the life insurance industry in August 2000 with the opening of the White Witch Golf Course. He moved through the ranks, coming up from providing outdoor services at the golf course.
Through PGA Class A members, such as Andrew Rogers, Kenn Depew and Mike Cole, Stewart learned the operations aspect of the golf course—from bag room, to storeroom, to golf shop and giving lessons. The year 2002 saw him being appointed as Assistant Golf Pro and eventu-ally assuming the role of Head Professional.
With a range of guests from various hotel properties, Stewart prides himself on being patient, observant and communicating clearly with his students who all want to improve their game.
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Club
The
Manchester
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Manchester ClubSituated in the town of Mandeville, the Manchester Club is a quaint and charming course equipped with nine greens and eighteen different tee positions. Its elevation, at 2,201 ft above sea level, provides golfers with impressive views of the surrounding countryside.
The Manchester Club was first founded in 1865, with the course built shortly after the game’s invention in Scotland. The club was declared a Protected Heritage Site in July 2007.
Manchester Golf ClubP.O. Box 17, Mandeville
Manchester, Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 962-2403 Fax: (876) 625-6746
E-mail: [email protected]
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingWHITE 5776 68.4 128RED 4883 69.1 124
Club
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Negril Hills
Golf Club
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Negril Hills Golf ClubNegril Hills P.O.
Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 957-4638 / 3641
Fax: 876-957-3890
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.negrilhillsgolfclub.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBLUE 6333 Not Rated (N/R) N/RWHITE 5798 N/R N/RRED 5036 N/R N/R
Negril Hills Golf ClubThe Negril Hills course was designed by Robert Simmons and constructed in 1994. Carved from hilly terrain, the course is characterized by rolling fairways, elevated tees and greens and magnificent views. Although hilly, the course is suited to those who enjoy walking during their game.
Negril Hills’ charming layout includes interesting features such as marshlands, tricky greens, sloping fairways and dogleg holes. Located close to the world-famous Seven Mile Beach, this unique course is one of Jamaica’s most distinctive.
FGB
Kingston
Courses
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Caymanas
Golf & Country Club
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Caymanas Golf & Country ClubSt. Catherine, Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 746-9772-4 Fax: (876) 746-9777
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www. caymanasgolfclub.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBLUE TEES 6844 71.9 123WHITE TEES 6223 69.4 118LADIESWHITE TEES 6223 75.4 128RED TEES 5502 71.3 120
Caymanas Golf & Country Club In the foothills of St. Catherine lies the Caymanas Golf & Country Club, a picturesque parkland style course. Caymanas first opened in 1957 and was designed by Howard Watson of Canadian Golf Landscaping Limited.
Caymanas is rich in vegetation, including imposing Cotton and Guango trees that stand guard over the fairways. The course features limestone formations, elevated tees and greens, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding parishes. Caymanas has played host to an impressive array of tournaments, including the JAMAICA OPEN and Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf.
Golf Course Professional: Clive Clayton
Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships
Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships
Jamaica Open
Red Stripe Invitational
Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf
Tournaments Hosted:
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Constant SpringGolf Club
Constant Spring Golf ClubConstant Spring Road, Kingston
Jamaica, W.I.
Tel: (876) 924-1610 Fax: (876) 931-7741
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.constantspringgolfclub.com
Tee Yardage Course Ratings Slope RatingBACK 6197 70.6 129WHITE 5866 69.1 129FRONT 5205 71.2 124
Constant Spring Golf Club Originally a nine-hole golf course, Constant Spring is characterized by narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers. Though fairly short, a combination of gullies, bunkers and ponds makes the layout challenging.
The course was designed by Stanley Thompson, a renowned Scottish-Canadian Golf Course Architect and has hosted several prestigious events, including the JAMAICA OPEN.
Golf Professional: Jason Lopez
Jamaica Open
Hoerman Cup Challenge
Tournaments Hosted:
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American Film Celebrities Participate in Annie’s Revenge David Arquette—actor and director, Michael Botti–producer, and John Swetnam—writer and producer, topped the list of celebrities set to participate in the Jamaica Invitational Pro-Am “Annie’s Revenge”. Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum was the presenting sponsor of the tournament, which ran from October 29 – November 2, 2014. The event, under the auspices and title sponsorship of the Jamaica Tourist Board, is now in its ninth year.
Annie’s Revenge teed off on Cinnamon Hill and White Witch, which are among Jamaica’s best championship courses. This invitational is seen by many golfers as the best Pro-Am in the Caribbean and is played over 54 holes, with teams of 4 amateurs and 1 professional golfer vying for the Jamaica Pro-Am Championship trophy.
Annie’s Revenge is administered by The Golf Connection LLC and apart from exciting rounds of golf, participants enjoy tee-gifts and various functions, along with spectacular prizes. The official host resort sponsor is Iberostar. Other sponsors include Jamaica Tours Limited, ground transportation sponsor, Chukka Caribbean Adventures—tour sponsor, Bridgestone Golf—official ball sponsor, among others.
The winning Blue Hills Country Club team from Kansas City, Missouri made history by capturing the Overall Champions title in 2012 and 2013. The Emerald Dunes Golf Club of West Palm Beach, Florida, headed by golf professional, Rob Corcoran, emerged the champion this year.
Forest Heights Country Club #2 of Georgia, led by golf professional Andrew Freeman, topped Flight B and in Flight C, the Constant Spring Golf Club team—with golf professional Jason Lopez— won over Country Club of Miami (Golf Professional - Peter Horrobin) by matching cards as both teams had the same score.
The OCEAN Style Celebrity Golf Weekend This celebrity tournament forms part of Ocean Style’s Fashion Showcase Weekend 2014, which was held on October 24 and 25 in Montego Bay, Jamaica at the White Witch and Cinnamon Hill Golf courses, which feature two of the island’s most challenging layouts.
The tournament forms part of the Fashion Showcase Weekend, which included a special appearance by Maurice Allen, PGA Professional and Guinness World Record Holder. Allen conducted two well-received clinics and demonstrations at the Cinnamon Hill and Constant Spring Golf Clubs prior to the tournament.
The format for the tourney included an individual Stableford and a 4-man Scramble with Stableford scoring. This year’s prizes include weekends for two, luxury watches and golf equipment. A US$1 Million Hole in One Prize was also up for grabs. Participants enjoyed the affiliated party at the Rose Hall Great House and the Fashion Showcase at the Iberostar Rose Hall Resort.
OCEAN Style magazine, launched in 2004 is a travel, fashion and lifestyle publication that features Caribbean celebrities. The annual Fashion Showcase has highlighted world-famous designers, including Anya Ayoung-Chee, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. The annual Celebrity Golf Tournament is no less popular, with various celebrities and professional athletes participating each year.
Proceeds from the tournament will assist the Barrett Town All-Age School.
Jamaican Golf
on the International Stage
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In 1956, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago competed in what would become today’s Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships.
Puerto Rico was invited to compete in 1957, and subsequently, invitations were issued to other islands. By 1987, the Caribbean Golf Association was formed and instituted as the governing body for golf in the region.
Over the years, the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships has grown to include ten (10) member countries that participate annually under the auspices of the Caribbean Golf Association.
Jamaica last hosted the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships in 2006 and the 2015 competition will unfold on the Half Moon & Cinnamon Hill Golf courses in Montego Bay from July 26 – August 1. The field will comprise of 130 top-ranked amateur golfers, competing in five categories, as well as vying for the Arthur Ziadie overall team trophy.
The Jamaica Golf Association is already in tournament management mode and will be doing everything to ensure that the Championships run smoothly and that Jamaica’s reputation for outstanding hospitality is enjoyed by all the golfers set to compete in 2015.
Jamaicato host prestigious regional event at
Half Moon & Cinnamon Hill
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This past summer saw the inaugural Jamaica Golf Association Junior Golf Summer Sleepover Camp taking flight. The camp was held during August and ten (10) children were in attendance—three girls and seven boys ranging from ages 7 to 18. The participants were from both Kingston and Montego Bay. Spencer Edwards, Byron Bernard and Sebert Walker were the Professionals who taught the campers. Each child had an individual lesson with Spencer (Director of Golf, Half Moon), where they were videotaped and the mechanics of their swing analyzed.
Each morning started with a talk from one of the presenters, then the children were divided into groups for short game or swing lessons, and switched after the break. Each afternoon, mini tournaments were conducted in a different format.
The final day of camp was Tournament Day for the students. In the morning, they played in a short game competition. A five-hole and nine-hole tournament took place in the afternoon. (The children were grouped according to skill level). On the final day, the parents came out to watch the children during the tournament and also attended the prize giving.
The camp was organized of Michele Gabay, Lisa Lindo, and Alison Reid. A Junior Tournament Series will get underway at the end of October and the Junior Cup early in 2015.
The older group of juniors, under the coaching of Jason Lopez, have developed their skills and have been competing in local and international events. In November, Justin Burrowes and Kei Harris entered the 10th Annual Optimist International Tournament of Champions held in Florida. Justin placed 5th in the 11-13 age group for boys and Kei finished tied in 25th place in the 14-18 age group for girls.
InauguralSummer Campa Success!
Below: Justin Burrowes and Kei Harris entered the 10th Annual Optimist International Tourna-
ment of Champions held in Florida in November.
Justin came 5th in the 11-13 age group boys. Kei T25(th) in the 14-18 age group girls.
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Buccaneersfor Charity
In November, the 19th renewal of the Buccaneer Memorial Golf Tournament took place at the Caymanas Golf and Country Club. The year 2014 marked the 7th instance that Alliance Investment Management Limited has been the title sponsor.
The Memorial continues to be one of the most popular events on Jamaica’s golf cal-endar and regularly attracts in excess of 120 players.
Due to the success of the 2013 Tournament, the club was able to donate Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800,000.00) to the Laws Street Trade Training Centre, their adopted charity. This year, the organizers raised one million dollars, which will again be donated to the Laws Street Trade Training Centre.
This institution provides skills training to residents in the Central Kingston area. Train-ing includes baking, sewing, cooking and in-troduction to computer basics.
Each fortnight, the Centre provides a meal and care packages of food and toiletries to the elderly and indigent of the Downtown area, whose numbers sometimes exceed 300. The Centre also hosts a highly-antici-pated annual Christmas Treat for the same persons.
The Tournament is sanctioned by the Ja-maica Golf Association and is also a qualify-ing event for players to earn points on the JGA’s Order of Merit. The format is a 36-hole stroke play competition over two days and a one day 18-hole individual Stableford com-petition over the same period. Professional golfers are also included in the tournament.
At Right: Nicholas McKoy (l) of Chad-Ad Distributors, Associate Sponsor or the Alliance Memo-
rial Tournament, presenting prize to the Men’s Champion,
Sean Morris.
Below: Diahann Guy-Shepherd of Supreme Ventures and Michael Wong (left) of Laws Street Trade Training Centre
admiring the perpetual trophy with Peter Chin (Captain of the Buccaneer Club & President, Alliance Investment Manage-
ment Ltd.) and Rory Jardine (Member, Buccaneer Club)and at the press launch of the Alliance Memorial Golf Tournament.
The acronym SANTA means, “Seeing a Need…Taking Action”. This year, SANTA was held over two days at the Constant Spring Golf Club in early December and featured an adult and junior competition in various categories. The tournament was again held under the distinguished patronage of The British High Commissioner, Mr. David Fitton.
SANTA is Jamaica’s biggest amateur golf tour-nament and is among the largest supporter of multiple charities. Last year, the event saw a full field of adult and junior golfers, with en-trants fighting to book tee times up to the morning of the tournament. The organizing committee attracted a bumper crowd for SANTA 2014. Junior golf participation was ex-panded with the addition of a dedicated day for young golfers.
SANTA is a premier marketing opportunity. Sponsors have the unique opportunity to pro-mote their products and services to an elite group, in a fun and attractive setting.
The committee built on last year’s media cov-erage and special “outside broadcast” that enabled the tournament and its sponsors to get island-wide publicity, not to mention worldwide coverage over the internet!
SANTA is renowned for its great tee gifts, wealth of prizes and good entertainment, and these, of course, continued. But most impo-tantly, SANTA is a charitable golf tournament.
A host of organizations are given assistance, according to their needs. Among these are the SOS Children’s Village, Bustamante Hospital for Children, the National Chest Hospital and St. Pius X Evening Institute. The event was started in 2001 and is one of the most popular on the golfing calendar, with over 144 partici-pants competing. To date, SANTA has donated over $24,000,000.00 in time, talent and trea-sure to 15 different charities.
Last year, the tournament raised $1.9 million for charity, and the planning team hopes to increase this amount considerably. Sponsors were recognized for their contributions, and the largest sponsors helped present cheques to the charities. SANTA 2014 represents a win-ning combination of sport, charity, youth, marketing and fun.
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