Amateur golfers on world stage — Clinton Ang in Tenerife, Spain
The International Pairs World Final is the largest golf tournament for amateur club golfers to play on a world stage. It provides the competition settings similar to PGA tournaments.
This year’s edition was held from Sept 30 to Oct 4, 2024, in Tenerife, an island in the Atlantic Ocean opposite the north-western coast of Africa. Players from 23 countries competed in teams of two in a Better Ball Stableford format in three championship divisions: Open, Ladies and Mixed pairs. This was Singapore’s inaugural participation in this event. The players from Singapore competed for their places and emerged winners in their respective qualifying games at Laguna National Golf Resort Club in September. Club member, Mr Clinton Ang, was one of them.
As a first-timer, Clinton, who partnered UK Club’s Mr Stephen King in the Open category, was keen to share this unique experience with fellow members through e-Keppel Links.
“Although it is a championship for amateur golfers, it was organised very professionally. Golfers were treated like pros. They adhered strictly to the rules of golf and there were photographers and spectators following us,” said Clinton, who runs a wine distributing business.
All the players took the game very seriously. Breakfast started at 6am and many players were seen practising at the putting green, bunkers and driving range early in the morning after a quick bite. The game was intense as the scenic course had both uphill and downhill terrains. Players had to pull their trolleys under the hot sun and strong wind for five-and-a-half hours.
After the first day, some players were permitted to use buggies after they visited a doctor. Clinton persevered despite having to play with a slight shoulder injury. “After two days, every part of my body was aching,” recounted Clinton. Such was the intensity of the game. For the record, the pair fought well to come in 11th position. While the tournament was fiercely competitive, players from the 23 countries savoured the camaraderie.
For those who aspire to represent Singapore next year, start looking for a teammate who can “provide the necessary support and encouragement” when the going gets tough. Clinton and Stephen have known each other for 10 years and understood each other’s strengths and weaknesses. “This is the tournament that all serious golfers must dream of playing,” added Clinton.
So, Keppelites, start your preparations and aim to represent Singapore next October in Sun City, South Africa!