Singapore: Singapore’s development as a desirable golfing destination will be the theme of the Asian Golf Industry Federation’s (AGIF) first Club Management Mini Summit in 2019.
Featuring a quartet of high-powered speakers, the Summit will be held at Sentosa Golf Club on January 18, coinciding with the second round of the SMBC Singapore Open.
Eric Lynge, the AGIF’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “As golf tourism grabs the attention of more Governments keen to attract affluent golfers to their countries, it’s an opportune moment to shine the spotlight on Singapore and pose the question: Can Singapore Become a Premium Golf Destination?”
Spearheading the discussion to an influential audience from the regional golfing industry will be Mark Siegel, Owner and Managing Director of Golfasian, one of Asia’s most prominent golf tour companies.
A former Singapore resident, Siegel will tee-off proceedings with an overview of the lucrative golf tourism industry, focusing on the key elements required to become a recognised and successful golfing destination.
Siegel will be followed by Patrick Bowers, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director at Laguna National Golf & Country Club. Bowers’ presentation will be centred around the Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore, scheduled for completion and a soft opening in the third quarter of 2019.
Comprising 198 rooms and suites and eight villas showcasing the best of contemporary Asian design, the venue, within the grounds of Laguna National, is being positioned to meet the needs of golfing enthusiasts, leisure travellers and MICE clientele.
Guests at Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore, which is being touted as a significant breakthrough for inbound golfing tourism to the Island Republic, will enjoy privileged access to Laguna National’s two 18-hole championship courses and acclaimed Teaching and Practice Facility.
Concluding the Summit will be a panel discussion at which Siegel and Bowers will be joined by Andy Johnston, General Manager and Director of Agronomy at Sentosa Golf Club, and Patrick Feizal Joyce, Vice President Golf – Asia at Lagardère Sports, promoters of the SMBC Singapore Open.
Following the Summit, attendees will be able to enjoy world-class hospitality and networking opportunities while watching a high-class field headlined by defending champion Sergio Garcia and ex-American Ryder Cup captain Davis Love in action from the comfort of the Legends Lounge at the SMBC Singapore Open.
Organised by the AGIF, the Mini Summit is being supported by the Singapore Golf Association, the Club Managers Association of Singapore, Sentosa Golf Club and Lagardère Sports.
Lynge said: “We thank Lagardère Sports and Sentosa Golf Club for providing this opportunity, in conjunction with the SMBC Singapore Open. We’re expecting a strong response from those within club management in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.”
Joyce said: “The SMBC Singapore Open is one of the iconic golfing events in the region. While some of the world’s finest golfers are providing drama on the Serapong Course, the AGIF’s industry event adds an exciting dimension to a wonderful week.”
Johnston added: “Last year’s Club Management Mini Summit on Sustainable Practices in the Club Industry proved a big success. This year’s theme is equally topical – and important to Singapore. We’re pleased to see this Asian Golf Industry Federation initiative becoming an integral part of the Singapore Open week.”
Lynge said there will be no charge for bona fide executives who work for clubs as well as committee members and owners. Limited seats are available and will be allocated on a first come-first serve basis.
Industry professionals interested in attending should email eric.lynge@agif.asia to check availability and attendance fees.