Best Golf Clubs Of 2010 Part 2 - Irons

Irons are the bread and butter clubs. They used to give you 3-9, PW and SW. With the advent of the hybrid the longer irons like the 3 & 4 are more or less obsolete in some cases. If you walk in to a golf shop today you will easily find combo golf clubs in a bag. Usually they now come with the 3 & 4 in hybrids instead of traditional irons. This normally happens in the "Super Game Improvement" category. Meanwhile, some low handicappers prefer sharp looking more playable irons with less directional help which are less forgiving and found in blade like irons with little or no cavity behind or in forged irons (called Players' irons). Other single digit players may still prefer friendlier ones. Irons that are in between are the Game Improvement types which are mostly used.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dG9hb3_blo

It is most important that you are equipped with the right set of irons which when fitted well with your game is likely to last for quite some time. I'll skip the "Players" irons portion for good reason as not all single digit players use them too and go on to the others and also the Super Game Improvements which are suitable for players who need a lot of help not just in direction but also to get the ball up, kind of like idiot-proofed.

Irons

Game Improvement

Adams Idea a7 - a forgiving set of irons which includes 2 Tour-inspired hybrids. This is a optimally combined set designed to outperform traditional irons.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKuYzOA02zc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIdELnfmZxQ

Mizuno MX-300 - Mizuno is most famous for their quality and feel. In their stable, the MP series are sharp irons for better players and the MX series are for mid to high handicappers. For the first time, the MX-300 introduced is the closest gap between their MP and MX series ever made. The appearance is more like a player's iron but some added forgiveness and feel will also appeal to both set of players. It's a in-between of the low handicap's MP-52 and the high handicappers' MX-200.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OKDq2CxSE8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8yO9PBr6qM

 

Mizuno JPX-800 - Mizuno has the Super Game Improvement MX-1000 and the older MX-100 and of course the MX300 so they set out to make these irons by bench marking against all the other greats to make them more forgiving maintaining their trademark feel, to hit them longer and with more accuracy - a set suitable for the single digit player to a 24 handicapper. It has a hot metal face, a special cavity created for maximum energy transfer and a triple cut sole for ball striking from all lies which according to Mizuno exceeded all Mizuno irons created before and also the competition. This is no small claim. I did not like the blue at the back cavity though it's a nice colour but it doesn't look as sharp. I think Mizuno may be on to something but as usual they belong to the high end of the market. I dare not try it for now as Mizuno's superior feel can easily amaze me and get me hooked. Its too early for me to do some explaining to the wife and children why I could not afford more things for them but could lay hands on golf clubs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Wv4yJ_vGhk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Os7FfhbDOns

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xshcmdaFu0M

Ping G15 - These are built for consistency. High launching and highly forgiving, these are explosive. Straight shooters and distance is impressive. What stands out for Ping is their club-fitting process which is probably the best in the industry.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0hco6qvxe0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TiBHKZeTVY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJP3AOwHtKo

TaylorMade R9 - Built for distance and control. It comes with an innovative shock absorption system packed in for better feel and superior sound. It has increased forgiveness and a specially designed beveled sole for better turf interaction for crisp contact.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7ZLe7R-U48

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvOVcf-5Elo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4YFXH6wyio

TaylorMade Burner 2.0 - Burner 2.0 is like a software upgrade in computer. Anyway, Burner was not designed as a traditional set. TaylorMade's idea was to design each club as individual club for specific performance departing from the way most clubs were made.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYpFiKqssI0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwxiLbySB6k

I have told the story of TaylorMade from Gary Adams' invention of the first metal wood which today gave us so much joy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnwM9z5Ek0g

Titleist AP1 - where AP stands for advance performance. A larger cavity and thinner face creates lively feel and hottest hits. The sole has tungsten nickel for more stability and forgiveness.

Take note that most of us could only handle only the AP1 not the AP 2.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUrdbBrMFn4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1plN3qKmAOI

 

The sharpest looking clubs are Mizuno followed by Titleist, TaylorMade then Ping. In terms of forgiveness the easiest are Adams, Ping/TaylorMade/Titleist are all tied. Awards to TaylorMade/Titleist and Mizuno for best feel. For the best consistency category, Mizuno and Titleist ace it with Ping following. Distance-wise, the latest Mizuno JPX-800 and Ping G15 cuts it perhaps followed by TaylorMade R9.

So what's your beef? What are you looking for? As for me, I am very curious on the Mizuno JPX-800 maybe even the Burner but I will probably need a windfall to get them. C'mon wind, blow it my way!

My resolution for 2011 in golf would be to be even more consistent perhaps to reduce the score by another 3-5 strokes! So flex your knee a wee bit, lean a little forward, watch and maintain that spine angle. Most of all - "Stand Tall!"

Ping G15 Hybrid

I have told you stories about Ping and technological advancement of hybrid golf clubs in my previous articles. What I do not need to tell you is the difference between better golfers and average hackers is the short game. Besides the short game, other key criteria are naturally a good golf swing and therefore, consistency.

Whenever you play with better players, have a keen observation how they go about the business. The way they make decisions, lay out or attack or reading of the putting line, etc. One key component of their play other than consistency is their reading of distance in relation to wind and ground condition.

Allow me to narrate a true story of real life drama on the golf course. I have always told you that lessons can be learned everywhere and everyday. We had a mini self-organised golf tournament where small prizes are to be given away for top golfers, nearest to the pin, longest drive, etc. Strange things do happen in life. I was having an unusually horrid day where all my timing, rhythm and tempo went haywire only improving in the second half. I will not tell you what other prizes I won like nearest to the pin or having a birdie or final placing, etc. but I felt compelled to share the story of the longest drive to inspire you.

The Longest Drive

At the longest drive par 5 hole, the first flight took off. When we arrived at the tee box,we could see the buggies and golfers scattered. Perhaps they either went OB, into the water, bunker or rough. They signalled to us and left the flag for longest drive near a bunker. Now, we all have a chance. One went OB, one into the water and one into the hazard. I wasn't thinking and I found this unacceptable being a guru advising people on golf with my blog.

Heck, I should have use a wedge to win it but being the unthinking gentleman I am, I gave a mighty whack with my driver despite the poor tempo and went against my own advice of never forcing a shot. To my horrors, I topped the shot and scraped past the the ball resulting in a shot that fortunately went past the ladies' red tee box (meaning I don't have to buy beer) and ran for more than 50 but not more than a 100m. I knew immediately, I would be harassed in the evening by "good friends" who would rub me till my skin break. Needless to say I won the longest drive. This could go into the Guinness Book of World Records for the shortest longest drive. There is no shame. I am showing you that we can win in another way.

What did I learn here? That victory does not always go to the strongest, fittest, fastest, swiftest or the best. What you need to do is to at least show up. When I told you I struggled to run 2.4km, it is true but I could do better only thing I need a ball as a target. I admired friends who are running frequently and those who are doing 42km marathons or the triathletes. Phew! What are they made of? When we are thrown into an African Safari, I do not need to outrun the hungry lions, I just need to outrun you. You get the point I am sure.

Loft & Distances

After this confession, I shall move on to distances of your clubs in particular the longer clubs especially those whose bags has evolved from long irons to hybrids. Remember that hybrids replace the long irons and not the woods. Do not look at the number on the hybrids as brands have their own numbering system so the trick is always to look out for the loft - how many degrees of loft that you need. Every two degrees is about a difference of 10m so if your 21-22 degrees hits 180m, your 19-20 degrees will go 190m and 17-18 degrees will be 200m.

Some folks just need two with a spread of 4 degrees like a 17 degrees and a 21 degrees as this is sufficient to give a range of 180-200m. The rest you will have to read the course contour (uphill or downhill would mean a difference of adding or subtracting 10-20m depending on steepness) and wind direction. Add or minus 10-20m from moderate to strong wind. Understand that a head wind (not the wind in your head) is stronger against the ball than a back wind meaning that you have to add 10m more distance playing into a head wind or 20m if against a very strong head wind. You do the same for a wind behind you by reducing proportionately the same way but a back wind would carry your ball forward with 10% less force than when the wind is against you. When you judge correctly each distance required, you can get your killer shots.

G15 Hybrid

Uniquely shaped like more like an iron than a wood and look a bit like a sore thumb. Some hybrids are shaped like wood but this one is clearly for iron lovers. Its unique feature is that the while the centre of gravity is positioned close to the face the offset created push it farther from the hosel and it is meant to produce a higher flight and less spin. An additional toe weight gives higher MOI (moment of inertia). The proprietary shaft has different torque, weight and stiffness.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbmYY-9YiMU

Golf Digest Player's Comments): High Handicapper - Flies like a rocket with a high trajectory. Exactly what you want from a hybrid. Mid-Handicapper - If you can get over the looks, it is a very solid club. You'll pick up a lot of forgiveness, good distance and a nice iron-like ball flight. It gets up and goes. Low-Handicapper - I can't believe how easy this is to hit. It makes every ball looks like it is sitting on a tee.

 

Today's Golfer UK: Because of the quality of its predecessor the G10, we expected a lot from the Ping G15 and it did not disappoint. It was the joint-longest on test and we loved it because it looks more like an iron than others. Top marks for forgiveness and performance from the rough. It's a Ping product so you expect it to be top notch and it delivers.

 

From this pix, one can see the silver trim resembles an iron top line when you look down during set up. When you see this, it tends to be more iron-like as those without the trim are more wood-like hybrids. Let me give manufacturers an idea. Like spray-painting cars with flowers and leaves, they could always have the crown of these hybrids with picture of grass so that when you rest the club down on the fairways or rough, you see only an iron top line. When anyone actually does this, please make sure you pay me some royalties.

golftoimpress: Has a very interesting and pleasing vibration at impact. It was different but felt very good. Toe shots were a bit numb but the result was worth it. Felt more like a titanium hollow driving iron than a typical hybrid wood. Very forgiving on the toe, heel shots were user-friendly and sweet spot covered a large zone. This club excelled in its accuracy. An all round straight shooter with medium/high trajectory. Can work well for good players or average golfers. This clubs is longer than any hybrids tested. Ugly but provides results. Great club for average golfers and solve big problems of long irons. Soft parachute landing onto greens.

 

Golf Magazine: Those who slice will like the G15 as the offset give the face more time to close. Many testers commented that these are straight shooters. Repeatable high ball flight. Head heavy feel during swing foster a smooth tempo. Stable sensation through impact. Good shots from challenging lies. Gouges ball out of thick grass. Aesthetics are big drawback-extreme offset, thick top line.

 

Actually the G15 is shorter in length than most other hybrids from the face to the back. Hybrids can look more like a wood or an iron and this one looks like a driving iron. This way it will make you feel like you are using an iron. The previous model G10 looks more like a fairway wood. The sole is almost flat. Some of us do not like the look of an offset but the truth is that many of us also play with clubs more difficult than we really should. It is like ferrying 7 people in the family into a 2-door sports car when you really should pack them into an MPV. The sports car looks great but it does not serve that purpose. Ditto your golf clubs.

For me it still looks great due to Ping's quality built. We often find things that are different and we label them off beat. Things like love can grow on us slowly but surely. This could be a revolution. Do not judge a book by its cover. This could be an exceptional choice for mid and high handicappers but even single digit players could like it. Try it first then decide.

I give you an easy comparison. Like I have said many times, do not look at the number of a hybrid but the loft as every brand calls them by a different number. One with a 31 degree loft is equal to a 6-iron. A 27 degree is a 5-iron. 23 degree = 4-iron or 9-wood. a 20 degree is a 3-iron or 7-wood. 17 degree loft is equivalent to a 2-iron or 5-wood.

Firstly, determine if you are a better wood or iron player. Most of us are more used to the iron swing and technically all swing are the same, the wood flat out more on impact than an iron. A Hybrid provides the best of both worlds where you can swing like an iron with the extra weight of a wood. Throughout your 18 hole you are using mostly an iron swing and to suddenly pull out a longer fairway wood to hit off the deck can be a bit too much unless you are highly proficient, so do not kid ourselves as we have enough frustrations at work, we have no time to fight with our own golf clubs.

There are basically 2 types of hybrid one that leans toward a wood and the other more iron-like. The G15 gives a solid thud on impact and can launch the ball into the stratosphere. The stock grip is the same as the driver, irons and wedges. Reviews showed that this clubs is straight as an arrow, the longest hybrid hit, extremely forgiving and long with results that are phenomenal.

My View

This clubs is built solidly. The look at address is familiar, like an iron with a bit more muscles but still compact and not too large. It is clean and gives you confidence. It certainly does not feel like you are hitting a hybrid like I used to. I would not say that it look ugly as some reviews may have suggested since it was built to do a certain job and I like the black and red colour scheme and the flat sole.

Some hybrids are excellent off the tee but not so off the fairways or vice versa. I would like my hybrids to be like a beast off the tee and also from the deck. While I am still contemplating whether to eventually have a 3-wood to use as a second driver on tight fairways, this would be my "go to" club if it could serve that very purpose from the tee box as well as a wood. It also offers hope of putting it onto the green from the second shot on some par 5s if I could handle it well bearing in mind at 17 degrees it is not as easy.

This one is a monster off the tee - signed, sealed and delivered. Confirmed. 200m is achievable so it is great to use when on a tricky tee box facing a fairway which look anything but fair. I have experienced mixed fortunes off the deck hitting both very good and not so good shots. It needs an adjustment period.

Well it it time to put it into play and hopefully "do it" as intended. You shall be hearing more about it in the near future plus the other Ping G15 driver, irons and wedge. My bag is turning black and red going into 2011. At least that is the colour I think is good for 2011.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAdjryTkxZg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HruTLBBl0as

Black for finance is good and red for prosperity, luck and good golf scores mean "under". I was given a pen that can switch colour. So hopefully it can be used to record pars and under in red.

Golf as in life. Play as it lies.

Wishes For 2011

Christmas is quickly over and now we are looking to cross over to a brand New Year in 2011. What has changed and changed for the better? Have you and will you become a better person? What is a better person in your mind after all? I leave you to search yourself and go deeper and not just skim the surface. What are the things to come and how will things pan out in 2011? For a start, some people from Hungary and Slovakia became the 58th and 59th country to have visited. I am clamouring for more. I have received rave reviews from friends and readers so good I might become big-headed for my own good.

War?

Dear Leader is waging war. His 27 year old son has been promoted from nowhere to a four-star general. Cronyism and nepotism at its best? We can criticise but this is prevalent in many societies, countries and organisations. If we practise it, we have no right to criticise.

It's The Economy Stupid!

The US has not fully recovered and is still limping using lots of ink and paper to print money. They will come back no doubt but for how long more? They are still the world's most innovative nation with their substantial influence from culture to politics.

Europe is in crisis. We will be in shock if we read more about the state of their economies and their reserves (European countries). Bubbles have built up and burst in many countries so why didn't anyone learned anything? We had better watch ourselves. Our young are splurging and beyond their means. Property and car prices have skyrocketed beyond belief and so does the unpaid credit from young people. China and India are beckoning. So do Brazil and Russia.

Can we find a cure for cancer, aids, heart attacks? Talking about cancer, it was reported that doctors can now tell if a person is likely to get certain cancer by looking at the length of their fingers particularly the middle one. So next time you visit the good doc, flash him your middle finger. It is legitimate.With people all over deluded by power and money, how can we eradicate poverty?

What about things to be better at home? Should all FBT shorts be banned to the tune of jingle balls? The US has set up a task force to monitor Wikileaks and it is called "WTF" not a very nice abbreviation for Wikileaks Task Force as it can be easily misconstrued as crude language. Cocktail talks, gossips will thrive and rumours continue as long as you have people. Why do people like to gossip? Because they can talk about other people and make themselves feel better but people who talk to you about others will talk to others about you. Don't you think?

Inflation is rearing its ugly head as property and car prices escalate and this will hit our pockets. Should we sell our cars and maybe we can make a decent profit if we had bought at the right time? From a low base in 2009 to the high of 2010 where our sterling economy performed 15% - best in the world, we are headed into uncertainties as this cannot be repeated. Do people know that or do they expect a 10% increase? It's all about the economy and putting money into people's pocket.

Casinos

It merely started this year and they are making tonnes of money. We are seeing and hearing stories about people burning themselves. Some are working class folks while others that are quite well-heeled are also sucked into it. Some are selling off properties to pay their debts when they could have been so comfortable had they not gambled.

No wonder property transactions have gone up! More cases may be coming up. It's like stories we hear in childhood like the one where the a lion caught a hare in its paws for food and when a deer ran by, the lion let go of the hare and pursued the deer but lost it. In fact, it lost both and ended up with nothing. Just like the old saying - "a bird in hand is worth two in the bush". Golfers listen here, a birdie in hand is worth more than two lost balls in the bush. A friend reported that he saw an old lady win a million dollars and the papers reported another lady won a Lamborghini in Jackpot but nobody reported about the thousands who lost their pants, their pride and their panties.

Talking about panties, a local 19 year old student is making hits on her blog by selling used panties in exchange for sexy video clips, her way of making pocket money. I thought maybe you'll find this in Japan. This is a fetish. How come I never thought of that by selling used golf clubs and showing some videos (of golf not panties).

Going Mental

Of late you are seeing more people just going naked. One young man was even involved in murder. These are people who has gone mental. In the old days they just lock you up at Woodbridge mental hospital. Today, it has been renamed Institute of Mental Health. Maybe there isn't enough space or modern medicine and treatment could allow you to just take your medicine and when you don't you get relapse. No easy solution as you can't just lock everybody up. There are mad people in our midst even at the work place and among your friends.

A young lady who went on a drinking binge with friends and after she returned to the hotel room was probably so high that when her friends fell asleep she went out the window and walk on the ledges, got stuck, fell and clung on to a lamp post and in the process her robe came off and was naked hanging on a lamp post. I heard the Civil Defence sent 2 fire engine to the scene. Everybody wants to be there to rescue her.

Many people do not realise they should not challenge one another when drinking. They also do not know how to pace or control their drinks. Some do not realise that white spirits are slow killers - you don't feel much while drinking because the kick is slow but when it comes - wham! You had it. Maybe exuberance plays a part when a person is too sad or too happy. I just hope I won't see any of you walking around naked. If I do, I'll strip too and join you. What are friends for?

Boat Tragedy

Such things will continue to happen as long as there is human greed to make a little more money at the expense of safety. It can happen anywhere and anytime. I have gone on a night ride on a small motor sampan from Mersing to a kelong before. The kelong stay was fantastic, fishing for a few days with the sea breeze incessant. Food is provided throughout. Cat fish and sting rays were huge. I saw an eagle swooping for big dead cat fish off the sea's surface each morning.

Many of us travel but regrettably we leave our safety to tour agents or the organisers quite often without batting an eyelid what we are going to have to go through. All tour agents and organisers must wake up to take safety as the number thing to do when on trips just like golf. The paramount thing must be safety. Don't think of saving money, think safety. Go for holidays in style or don't go at all. I have seen some of the most gruesome accidents on the Malaysian highways and even Thai roads. Drivers with insufficient sleep or no driving licence. When we will get things right?

S. League

Singapore fared poorly in the Suzuki Cup soccer. Sacking coach Raddy is not the solution. After all, he was the one who brought us glory and got our level up but after the initial euphoria it just proved once again that to achieve something is easier than to sustain it. Raddy must be more daring to bring in new players even if we have a dearth of good players. A Tampines Rovers player was caught drink driving or driving while on suspension and he had the cheek to ask fans to pay for his fine. This really takes the cake and showed how self deluded these players are. There is no remorse or shame.

The FAS and the S League has been doing a good job but it is difficult to sustain interest. Games are best played during the weekends but clashing with the EPL has been a problem but EPL games are now screen live much later. A local Cup Final game once drew more than 20,000 spectators.

The S League needs real quality foreign players and there must be greater outreach to the community and to begin with more activities with neighbourhood schools could be a good start. The Malaysia Cup days could bring crowds of more than 60,000 people and some who could not find car parks even risked getting fine for parking along the roads.Why? There was excitement and great rivalry.

Rivalry

Rivalry in the Malaysia Cup was natural. There are geographical and historical differences. Rivalry in school sports are still there. We used to sing, chant and beat drums but after schools are over there are no more such intense rivalry. Engineer it. Whether you lived in the North or South, East or West Singapore is still too small where people are the same compared to big countries like the UK, the USA, European cities or even in Indonesia or Malaysia where people in each state, province or city are markedly different. We need to create rivalry.

EPL

Chelsea is in decline. Manchester United has not been as flamboyant but nonetheless still quite unbeatable. Liverpool is having the most dismal season and they really should have Peter Lim. Tottenham Hotspurs is having the time of their life and Harry "the wheeling and dealing" Redknapp has done wonders. Arsenal sometimes a little soft or wet behind the ears has just shown they have gone up a notch with that important over Chelski - something they haven't done for a long time. It's Man U's position to lose but Arsenal could give a serious run for the money.

Barcelona 

Barcelona is the greatest team of all time some quarters strongly suggested and it would be hard to argue against that. The irony of it all is that Rinus Michel who gave the Dutch "Total Football" was responsible to bring Johann Cruyff to Barcelona and introduced the same there. When he left, his legacy continued through Cruyff who is still at Barcelona today.

In addition to total football, the Catalans added on "tiqui taka" a one touch and movement brand of scintillating soccer. This could have taken some twenty years to come to this level from mostly their youth. Singapore should aspire to learn how to do it the Spanish way as Spanish like the Latin players are mostly smaller in built and physique than their European brethren. It's all about the touches and movement, flow like water.

Wayne Rooney was there to watch Barcelona annihilate arch rival Real Madrid 5-0 under Mourinho at the Nou Camp. When the match ended, he stood to applaud non-stop and when his wife asked him why, he said that he has never seen such fantastic soccer being played before. 

New Year Resolution

Another milestone of crossing into a new year offers fresh hopes and perspective. We want to shed our bad habits, the less positive traits, etc. To begin with, be very specific. Don't say I want to be a better person in 2011. Think, say or write down specifically that I want to be unselfish, generous, forgiving, considerate. You can make a resolution every day don't wait till once a year. How many one year or ten years do you have left? You should hone your skills everyday. Sharpen the saw. Beautify the sculpture. If you can't be a more considerate person you can't link up with the universe, see the stars, feel the breeze. Shed your ego and go down to ground zero. If you continue to do things thinking that no one is watching and you can get away with it you didn't get the point. The fact that you have to think that no one is watching is already your conscience speaking to you that you are doing something wrong.

Facebook

Amazingly, it has garnered 500 million users worldwide where epople play games or post pictures. "Hehe, my car wheels got clamped! Haha!" some folks would shamelessly declare. May be the face book folks are more sincere. Still there isn't much more communication than that. Others put a spider or a cartoon as profile and instantly become a keyboard warrior screaming profanities or appear so aggressive but that person could be the holy looking mildest bloke you could find. Faceless book?

Wishes For 2011

Well, all the above may not have anything to do with 2011 but we won't learn if we do not look at the past. If we don't do something, history will repeat itself. 


If only the Myanmar junta and Dear Leader knew that they do not have to be doing the same things and the good things in life can still be theirs and even more for their people. If only peace is secured in the Middle-East. Terrorism is done with. They find a cure for cancer, a definitive and preventive treatment of heart diseases, aids, etc. If. If only we are all kinder. Imagine - you may say that I am a dreamer but I know I am not alone.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VM0Z75KEd_o

What do you wish for in 2011? Change? Change begins with self. If you want to change the world, change yourself and if all of us go along and change then the world will change.

I wish all friends and readers good health and happiness. That you will find joy in your pursuits. That you will be safe. That you may prosper in all the good things. That God will bless you richly - you and your family and let 2011 be a wonderful year of human happiness!

Best Golf Clubs Of 2010 Part 1 - Drivers

This December is really quite nice. Not too much rain but the mornings and evenings have been windy and chilly at times. Walking in the city in the mornings remind me of winter or the impending spring in other cities like Tokyo, Hong Kong or in Europe.

There was a report that our human body can get affected by drop in temperatures to 15-20 degrees and affecting especially those who have underlying heart or hypertension conditions. Walking around in cooler climate gives me a sense of elation and allow me to soak in things going around somewhat differently. If it drizzles, I feel like a soldier in the rain -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kJ2YgfNwhw

I just can't let the year slip away without my usual two cents worth on golf can I? So, here I come - Competition is relentless. Everybody is producing clubs which they claim are the most forgiving and could hit the longest. Some are exorbitantly expensive. New products are being constantly churn out. Some good brands can suffer fools in the heat of competition. Nickent Genex has no more distributorship here. Yes! who make great putters are on the brink of bankruptcy and could sell out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dG9hb3_blo

Those of you dreaming of taking your game to the next level have have been waiting for the year end bonus for a shopping spree. It is a good gift to get for yourself and it does not need wrapping, just tie a ribbon around it if you must. Let me share with you some of the best equipment money can buy but more than that, equipment that works. The roll of honour for 2010:

Drivers

Customised weighting, trajectory shift, hot faces, shaft options, large heads, lower CG, higher MOI, etc. Club head size has maxed out to reach 460cc and can't go bigger due to USGA regulation so they have to turn to internal weights and external designs to produce something that gives you more distance and accuracy. This is a club for that very first shot and if you want to score you have to drive well onto a nice spot on the fairway for your second approach shot. Let me share some great drivers in alphabetical order:

Adams Speedline Fast 10 - This club was engineered for distance in mind. They used wind-tunnel technology to shape the sole to be more efficient and forgiving. Long and extremely easy to swing with large sweet spot. For Asians, do test for shaft stiffness as I find Adams shafts in American specs can be stiffer than others. This club is interesting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7n0mgxPjzQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rURT1g6IV_g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-oM33sDA68

Callaway Diablo Octane - 46 inches in length and a lighter club head with a new material built jointly with Lamborghini. How good is it? I do not know but watching the shot beat a Lamborghini Gallardo takes the cake.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyTPzT6UJjg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzc-xKsVsD0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqtUtwIZ0Wg

Cleveland Launcher DST - Cleveland besides being famous for their wedges are very good indeed with their woods - drivers, fairway woods and hybrids. This time they reduced the total club weight to less than 300g, 10% less than some drivers. It comes with a light shaft of 47g and is helpful to produce a faster swing speed especially helpful for slower swingers. It is created to be long, straighter and more accurate to increase your fairway hits. Cleveland American specs shaft can be stiffer so see if you could get the Japanese version.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fI3-jv1HysA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRyHK8WAIuw

Cobra ZL - ZL means Zero Limit. Weight is positioned towards the heel and the crown and sole is made from graphite. This is high launch and maximum distance club. The black and silver colour scheme looks sharp. Very forgiving.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXU6eVM4zlk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGICR_fyuMo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHufAmUQoWo

Cobra S2 - This is all titanium with a long 46-inch shaft. It comes with an adjustable angle at the hosel for 3 desired ball flight. It also has a face insert to promote faster ball speed. Great feel and sound and typical Cobra distance and accuracy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC5GlefjDlw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrtXocTP31Y

Mizuno MP-630 Fast Track - Built with new material and can customised ball flight. While others have to remove the head and adjust the screws, this one comes with sliding weights (how cool) and can adjust ball flight in 45 ways. Face is made from titanium alloy. Needless to say, very easy to adjust to your preference. To what I know Mizuno drivers are not for everyone as some may find it too demanding. Better players can try it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coK88vDxjIs&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7AZaEQ_R04
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WO4_6OjKwL0

Nike VR STR8-Fit Tour - It has a shaft adapter in the hosel to give players 32 different positions to change face angle, loft and lie angle. Cool! The strength of this club is great feel and distance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7su-dcba6EE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGAevKO_-5U
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCF8ECsqAUw

Ping G 15 - External sole weight helps increase off centre hits and provides stability. A slightly lighter shaft shifts the balance point to the grip to create a heavier head while the swing weight remains unchanged. As a result, more mass is delivered to the ball even at the same speed. Clever! This driver has exceeded the expectations of many golfers. You shall get consistency. It is long and straight and could be one of the best drivers of 2010!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fF45AjD_svk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41hXzppj6Y8&playnext=1&list=PL9312DF387CF7293E&index=33
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41hXzppj6Y8

TaylorMade Burner Superfast - I love TaylorMade and the Burner but I can't handle it. The 08 American Regular that is once used was light but too whippy. I got the 09 at 9.5 degrees American specs stiff but this time may have been a wee bit too stiff. I love the Burner for its feel and sound and distance. Now it has shed 14 g less and I wonder if I should find a place to test it for suitability. This clubs will shoot straight and is very long. I just need to know if it fits me. If it does it could find itself in my bag. Beware the 46.25 to 46.50 inches length.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zakEdIn-fnk&NR=1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWkrS2XKolU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iF-Zw4aqEv8

TaylorMade R9 SuperTri - This one is an upgraded version of the R9 460 and comes in a black face and sole. It has both Flight Control (FCT) and Movable Weights (MVT). It has a deep face which measures 62cm. As usual it is long and forgiving. The dark colour scheme gives sinister intent.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZVpIBffGsw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KH86acU4Vpw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rtr8SU11q50

TaylorMade R9 460 - This is the second version after the original R9 which was smaller. It has FCT which gives 8 different flight options. This is a great club that offers forgiveness, very long drives and consistency when you find a suitable setting to your liking. Among the best drivers out there in 2010 plus now with even greater value for money since it is considered a slightly older model in the market though it is still quite new. Go for it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mPLuuJ2xF0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMP_Quzlleo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_dcuk8x2FY

Titleist D2 - It has a shallow face but deeper CG and comes with a milled face insert. Titleist drivers usually has solid feel and strong trajectory. It is strong in performance, makes a great sound and has great feel. So with these cool and solid drivers, they are asking you: "What do you want from me?"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAi6s9AEIYc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUkka5SELDA

My estimation are as follows:

Best Dressed Best Looker of The Year: Ping G15, Cobra S2 - Too much going on can be a distraction be it graphics or shape. Traditional and balance shapes are the best.

Most Forgiving - These are the Super Game Improvement Category. It doesn't mean you are stupid or completely incapable or less macho. It should go to the Cleveland Launcher DST, Cobra ZL, TaylorMade Burner Super Fast, TaylorMade R9 SuperTri. R9 460 is also forgiving but the fact that the SuperTri has a taller face makes it more forgiving. If you still can't hit with this sticks, consider picking up table tennis.

Best Feel - Not necessarily in this order but they great solid feel. Cobra S2, Nike VR STR9-Fit Tour, Ping G15, TaylorMade Burner Superfast (honestly I haven't tried this one but the last two had solid feel), TaylorMade R9 460 and SuperTri, Titleist D2. I like the R9 feel but frankly feel does not generate result. Its a feel good factor and for better players they want to know how they hit by the feel.

Best Consistency - Cobra ZL, Mizuno, Ping G15, Taylormade SuperTri. One has to be able to handle the club with a repeatable swing producing repeatbel results. Not all clubs that lets you hit long gives you repeatable swing and consistent results.

Best Distance - Adams Speedline, Cleveland Launcher DST and TaylorMade Burner Superfast are built for speed therefore distance but the Cobra Zl and S2, the Mizuno, Nike, the Ping G15 and the TaylorMade R9 460 and SuperTri are no slouch and will give a run for the money.

Most important question of all is which one is the most suitable for you if money is no object? What are you lacking or searching for in your game. If you completely lack distance, you need it. Or is your distance good or may be average but lacks consistency?

What is the most important factor for me? Firstly, suitability. A club can be built for distance by being longer and lighter, two components for being longer but if I can't hit it well it is meaningless. Next, I will pick forgiveness and consistency simply because forgiving and consistent clubs are like good friends - they are reliable therefore, offers stability. You don't have to fight them.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aa0j44ydQpQ

Then distance becomes important since the fact that you could hit long means the course is shorten for you but distance must comes with accuracy to be on the fairways. If not choose accuracy over distance if it means trouble. If you can't have a high-flying life choose a life out of troubles. When you can hvae a balance of all these, the looks, sound and feel is important. If you don't like the look of something, you won't play well with it. Ditto the sound. Feel is subjective but better players may need it to know how to play better and feel good on impact.

Being able to adjust your driver is really cool because no matter how good we are, we wake up to a different swing each day. So this features come in handy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIYMctN356U&list=PLFB19BA32D8673F15&index=34&playnext=2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-6aRBdiewU&playnext=3&list=PLFB19BA32D8673F15&index=36&ytsession=GjN_ggngXvHElJqf_OEoBKfL9RdFteevelsVtp4JNTWe2q3fw3kS94ckB3FTGHcdtLDaEbbESfSbu2SCvvYTnxyzNmZ0UqvxqhwW0XKiRJydvzX74MdwQY_hhlfNA3JzYxeMn1vbAzLBl_GoHpHeIhnszCX1-RFLDYo378qEqcqvkuOcCjrQt2D0220LVAi4tOLbJ-Za0xxQbBXqEwVHrPXU731i2huX43CKfeFk64ZkFYDYzl8kyzjq4_NvDYLt1wPDQHvR2JmtXcFWk63mzD_-19w26jkqdJbe9J1EPqE9hVkv3k3iItlEL3mLEKRwG8RpRyMW10ANRu-E1U6ADQrYshtA4NmL

Take your pick. Golf as in life, play as it lies.

Merry Christmas!

Do They Know It's Christmas? - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5cX_ncZLls

Christmas is so commercialised these days that they Deck The Halls way too early. This shot was taken in early November.

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HrAy5xqzOs. Cut!! Our cold and wet season came early as the floods occurred in October. In contrast, this has been a relatively warmer December. White Christmas? Keep dreaming. It could happen. You see Europe in turmoil due to the snow havoc. EPL soccer matches were badly affected. Give us cool mornings and nights anytime in our oven climate.

Christmas is celebrated all over the world on 25 December to commemorate the birth of Jesus who is central to Christianity. It is probably not the actual day of the birth of Jesus but rather chosen to sort of correspond with some ancient festivals or the Roman calendar and some believed was nine months after Jesus was conceived.

What Is Christmas?

Christmas is commonly celebrated by non-Christians too. The fact that it is held towards the year's end gives it a significant and special feel especially with the impending New Year to boot. To add to these, given a good year, most people will have more money to spend especially with bonuses to splurge. The festive light up with shopping centres competing for attention, more people hanging loose after a year's hard work, the practice of gift-giving, music, carols, Christmas trees, greeting cards, mistletoe, Nativity Scenes and Santa Claus provides an added dimension to the happiness index especially with turkeys and spirits thrown in. Companies will hold their annual Dinner & Dance around this time and those that did so earlier would have completely miss the festive spirit.

The economic impact of Christmas cannot be denied as they naturally coincide with the year end retail sales. This is not just a religious date but increasingly it has become celebrated as a commercial event. I went back a long way with my memory writing this article as it brought back fond memories of our days of innocence where as a child I would make my own Christmas cards. Simply by folding drawing papers, conjuring a simple Christmas tree with a Snowman beside it, colouring them and adding sparkle by sprinkling some confetti or glitter strewn over light glue and bingo! It is personal. Sending Christmas cards and writing letters always beat those electronic ones. It's the personal touch. We can express our moods and emotions better with our personal handwriting. There won't be any wiki leaks too.

Talking about wiki leaks, being smacked right into the festive period where the happiness index will be inevitably raised, do watch out on your binge drinking and about driving. I know friends especially beer drinkers who could drink so quickly and drink so much that they are constantly peeing. It may not be a bad idea for them to sit near the loo or for pubs to have a loo concept where you don't need to take more than three steps to let your wiki leak.

I did enjoy those trips we took to the shopping malls at Metro and Robinsons in town as a child during this period in the old era where they are only located in town. You just don't go to shopping centres all the time in those days, only during festive periods unlike today where everyday you are at a shopping mall. Metro and Robinsons always have their own Santa Claus then and they would normally carry a bag slugged around them. They offered lucky dips for a dollar which made the children kind of excited and when you can buy your clothes or get tailored at Lifting or CYC at Bras Basah / North Bridge Road you were doing well. What we have today is big time commercialism.

While many countries have Christmas as a national holiday in their calendar, some do not, like China, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Japan, Thailand, Iran, Nepal and Turkey. Maybe in Israel too. In some traditions, they believed that creation as described in Genesis occurred during spring equinox which falls on March 25 on the Roman calendar and Christmas was calculated as nine months later which was called Annunciation which was the date of the conception of Jesus but to Christians, the date is not really important but rather the belief that God came into the world as a man to atone for the sins of humanity which is the real reason for such a celebration. Listen to Martina McBride deliver "O Holy Night":

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWfuoAmBgEs&feature=related

The birth of Jesus to the Virgin Mary was a Biblical fulfilment and a messianic prophecy of the Old Testament. Jesus was born to Mary and Joseph even though she was a virgin in the city of Bethlehem. It was specifically mentioned that he was out in a manger (manger can only be found in a stable) . An angel announced the birth to shepherds in the fields and where three wise men who brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the infant all this time led by a mysterious star now known as the Star of Bethlehem. This was the Messiah, the Saviour the world was waiting for. God becoming man is humility and so humans can witness it and eventually have a relationship. His blood has to be shed so that forgiveness is a given as a gift of salvation. This to me is the greatest leadership - leadership by example and sacrifice. Adrienne Liesching & Geoff Moore did this lovely song:

"In Christ Alone": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6wMB-AWLC4

The Beginning Till Now...

Christians believe that in the very beginning God created the earth and all things, the trees, creatures of the land, the sea and the air way before we could fathom the army, navy and air force. That includes human beings. Adam and Eve disobeyed, so sin and diseases came into the world as a result and the earth and everything was cursed. Man was not supposed to die and we could be playing golf all day so when you go to heaven and meet Adam, he could get a blanket party for the troubles.

Lucifer, an angel rebelled against God thinking he could be God. Sometimes, Man thinks he could be God too. So he was thrown down and he became the devil, the accuser also known as Mr. S.A. Tan aka Satan. A third of the angels who joined in the rebellion became his demons. His job is to bring us down with him to Hell. In the old days, to ask God for forgiveness, the innocent blood of lamb must be shed for atonement of sin. So God sent His Son to become a man to be with us for the specific purpose of dying so that His blood was shed so that we could be forgiven and Jesus Christ was also referred to as the Lamb of God.

At any time, for the pain and suffering he has gone through, he could have summoned His angels by snapping his fingers but he knew the mission was to die. During His ministry on earth, He healed the sick, raised the dead and performed miracles. His last words on the cross was: "God forgive them for they know not what they do." Later, Jesus's body disappeared from his guarded tomb and he appeared before His disciples in person and told them to spread the gospel before ascending to Heaven to show that he has overcome death. The gospel is God's story also known as the Good News.

It's like the world has aids and cancer and He provides a cure. His salvation is like offering us a syringe for vaccination to remove these infections for free. God has already paid the price for us. Meantime, Mr. S.A. Tan wants us to be with him. We kind of owe him lots of debts but Jesus has paid up everything for us - more than is owed. S.A. Tan is like a loan shark tempting you all the while and send his demons to splash paint in your life or force you into a terrible end and blinding you and leading you away from the knowledge that your debt has already been paid for and all you have to do is to claim it. Meanwhile, the devil constantly makes us do things knowingly or unknowingly through our selfish attitude including hurting the people we love or tempting us into self delusion and we unwittingly allow darkness to slowly creep in. That is the spiritual realm of good and bad, light and darkness. Every time you do something which you know is not good you know it but still do it anyway - that is the devil working his way to success.

What Is The Meaning Of Christmas?

So what is the meaning of Christmas to you my friends? Christmas must therefore be about spending time with loved ones, being around friends and enjoying each other's company. Sharing great meals with warm exchanges and simply enjoying the simple things in life and at the same time by being thankful and grateful. Yes and remember the less fortunate. There are lots of people out there who do not have food or homes, suffering from oppression or violence, orphans who are young and defenseless. As parents all you have to think about is how your children will be without you. So let us extend a prayer, a helping hand in anyway you could no matter how small. Forget about what you want and remember those who are in need. Give to the Salvation Army for their food distribution, give to the School Pocket Fund, etc. regardless of whether some people cheated some charitable organisations.

Santa Claus

Santa Claus was actually St. Nicolas, a Christian leader in Myr (now Turkey). Santa Claus comes from the Dutch SinterKlaas. He was a shy person who wanted to help the poor without anyone knowing. It was said that one day he climbed onto the roof of a house and dropped money into a chimney which landed in the stocking which was put out to dry by the fire. This fat old bearded man are believed by some to have existed and to be real but he has never given me anything. Nice if he could throw in some latest golf clubs.

I have prepared a song list for you to enjoy by listening, to sing or hum along and make you feel the love of Christmas.

When A Child Is Born (Johnny Mathis) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGMky4tVN7c


Child In A Manger (Michael W. Smith) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViXsp7QBO08


Mary's Boy Child (Boney M) -http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7-4GC828rM

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x17bT4Oy5z4

The First Noel - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANUV9vD1zg8

Joy To The World - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpgaWm2pnNs

Little Drummer Boy - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rx2g2Crjm8

Complete (Parachute Band) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk7nfr8SSW8

All The Earth (Parachute Band) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bo2bwXLwhVs

Silent Night (Sinead O'Connor) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87q5dmW6zDg


If you saw the picture in the local papers featuring religious harmony recently, you would have noticed a Jewish Rabbi, a Buddhist Monk and the Islamic Mufti chatting together like good old friends in harmony, with smiles, tolerance and respect. This prompted an American visitor who has visited Singapore more than dozens of times to write in to the forum citing that he wished his country could demonstrate religious tolerance like here. He was impressed that it is normal and clearly visible that Christians, Muslims, Hindu, Buddhist workers sharing a meal together or exchanging pleasantries on the street. He has travelled all over the world but have never found a country that comes close to our religious and spiritual maturity that Singaporeans demonstrated to each other. We complain about life here but from an outsider's perspective we are a most beautiful and enviable society. Singapore is a beacon to the world. Keep it up! This is freedom my friend. Freedom to choose, Freedom to worship.

Jingle Bell Rock (Bobby Helms) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWXqmukiD3U


Here's Jose Feliciano with Feliz Navidad - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihW56Xa3XGQ

Boxing Day

What is Boxing Day? When I was young I thought that they could have organised boxing matches because at the time the only boxing I knew was popularised by Muhammed Ali. Boxing Day falls on the day after Christmas that is 26 December. In some countries it is a public holiday. There were conflicting accounts on how it originated but the tradition definitely involved giving gifts and money to the poor. In the 1800s, churches placed alms boxes for money donations to be distributed to the poor and needy. Bosses would place boxes of gift and money to servants and workers to bring home for the holiday season. So, bosses did you hear what I just said?

Come All Ye Faithful - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eLDvM7eSq0

Faith, Hope, Love but the greatest is Love. Christmas is simply about God's forgiveness and mercy for mankind, His restoration of a relationship. His sacrifice therefore His Love. So for all of mankind, what we can learn here is about forgiveness, mercy, relationship and most of all love. I leave you this song and video depicting the torture that Jesus Christ went through such as wearing a crown of very sharp thorns that pierced his head, being whipped by cat-o-nine-tails till his skins were torn to shreds, having his body speared and finally being nailed to the cross at the wrists. He said that "by my stripes you are healed" and he uttered "God forgive them for they know not what they do". I supposed that Jesus Christ is really who he said he is or is the world's greatest liar.

Above All - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eckskOzB1-Y

Christmas Tree

What about the Christmas tree? The tradition of decorating an evergreen Christmas tree originated in the 16th century in Livonia and Germany. Usually it is brought into homes or placed outside homes or in malls and squares and decorated with lights, tinsel, ornaments, garlands, candy canes and top with an angel or a star depicting the host of angels or the Star of Bethlehem from Nativity. A brotherhood use one to celebrate and on the last night brought it to the town square. It was not until the 19th century that the use of Christmas trees grew from Germany and into Eastern Europe's Slavic people.

Evergreens is merely a symbol of rebirth in ancient times. Bringing it into homes symbolised life. In ancient times, they used to have a play depicting the creation of Adam and Eve called Paradise Play where a Paradise tree was used to depict sin and the tree of life and they used apples to hang on it. For some Christians, it is the symbol of the Paradise tree to remind us of Eden where Adam and Eve were tempted into sin and disobedience. It is also interpreted that the Christmas tree symbolized the Cross "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us" (Galatians 3:13), "Curse is everyone who is hung on a tree" (Deuteronomy 21:23), He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. The Christmas tree is a reminder of forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ.

Glory to God in the Highest and on earth peace and goodwill towards Man - Luke 2: 14

I leave you with "The Prayer" from Celine Dion & Josh Groban - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhxIjRO6WjI

and the always great - Amazing Grace - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmhqszfmLu8

Grace is a person. His name is Jesus.

(Hayley Westenra) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOrlCYp8TgU&feature=related

The Gift (Jim Brickman) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWyUYsdRwJk

I pray that all your family members, loved ones, relatives, friends and all readers will experience great peace, joy, mercy and love this Christmas and more. Merry Christmas!

Deck The Halls, Tis the season to be jolly!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeeaLwgNhSw