Among the 150 pro players in the main competition, look out for Thai veteran Boonchu Ruangkit, who is eying a record third win in the US$500,000 competition (first place US$79,250). The 52-year-old grand old man of Asian golf has watched, caddied and played in the Thailand Open for more than four decades.

Also look out for hefty 24-year-old Prom “Big Dolphin” Meesawat, who hopes to emulate his father. Suthep Meesawat was the first Thai winner of the Open in 1991, when he birdied the final hole to beat the likes of Vijay Singh and David Toms.

The Thailand Open has a history going back to 1965, but there was no tournament in the past three years due to the lack of of sponsors. The tournament was last played in 2005 when New Zealander Richard Lee lifted the title in Phuket, at the Blue Canyon Golf and Country Club.

Entry for spectators is free. For more information see the official tournament website.

Top Golfers Head for Thailand Open is an article from: Phuket Observer - Phuket lifestyle magazine.

Red Mountain Golf Club

Paying a visit to Red Mountain Golf Club is a must for anyone visiting or staying in Phuket. 18 holes spread over 1400 Rai of beautiful green landscape. The golfing greens are surrounded by natural wild jungle, kept in perfect harmony with the course itself.  The sun reflects off the many lakes that dot the magnificent view as we traversed the highest points in the golf course, taking as many images as we could. Orange colored hills frame the horizon, giving the place it’s namesake.

We were privileged to be given our guided tour by PGA professional Michael Brasier, who also works as caretaker for the course. He took us through much of the most difficult parts of the course, and took our breath away by showing us the magnificent views from some of the highest holes.

The course itself was not the only highlight of our tour, however. The club boasts an exquisite clubhouse designed to cater to the needs of even the most privileged golfers. One of the finest restaurants on the island provides customers a world class meal while overlooking the 18th from the restaurant balcony. Not only that, but the club also has a fine pro shop and private event rooms perfect for corporate meetings and special occasions.

We are still not finished. If ever you fancy a golfing lesson, it will be provided my Mr. Braisier himself. Nothing beats golfing with a member of the PGA, especially on a course such as Red Mountain. If ever you wish to play with the pros, then this is the perfect place to go.

Perhaps one of the highlights of our visit was the impression we got of Red Mountain’s staff. I had never seen a more professional, friendly, and dedicated group of individuals working on a golf course.

You may take our word on it. Red Mountain Golf Club will provide the golfing experience of a life time you won’t soon forget.

Rates:

Visitor Fee:

18 Holes:                   9 Holes:

5000 Baht                  3000 Baht

Caddy Fee:

250 Baht                    150 Baht

Golf Cart Fee (1 golfer per 1 cart):

700 Baht                    450 Baht

Golf Club Rental

1500 Baht                  1500 Baht

Red Mountain Golf Club is an article from: Phuket Observer - Phuket lifestyle magazine.