By MIKE ORLOFF
Thailand is one of my favourite countries to visit, and I’ve still much more of it to explore.
I had a chance to stop over in Bangkok for a couple of days in transit to Jakarta, so I took the opportunity to catch up with some old friends and colleagues in the industry.
My second "field trip" to Asia this year was about more than just playing golf. It was about seeing the industry in action, connecting with the people who have been shaping its future.
2025 is an exploratory year for me, to better understand the opportunities that may be needed for the golf industry, as well as to play some golf! Something I’ve not given myself the luxury to do in recent years.
Mike Orloff - Bangkok offices
The first stop was The RG City Golf Club, also known as Royal Gem Golf Club. I had the pleasure of playing with Mark Siegel from Golf Asian, a long-term industry supporter in the region's golf tourism space. I'd heard a lot about RG City, but nothing quite prepares you for the sheer boldness of its concept.
It’s a course that is, in a word, “a tribute”.
We opted to walk the course with caddies, catch up on what’s happening in the industry, as well enjoy some fun banter along the way.
Mike Orloff and Mark Siegel Replica #12 Augusta National
The front nine is a collection of the world's most famous holes. As a golf professional, you've studied these holes, you've watched them decide tournaments, and you've seen them humble the best in the game. But to stand on the tee box and face them yourself? That's a different story.
The famous replica holes on the front nine include:
And then comes the back nine: a meticulous, passionate recreation of the back nine at Augusta National, including the hallowed Amen Corner.
The 12th hole for me was spot on what the original must be. Down to club selection etc. Some holes, though, maybe not exactly the same, but still some resemblance and feel.
“The RG City Golf Club project was born from my heart due to my love for the sport. After having played at almost all the world’s leading courses, I felt that there was still something missing, and that was the Thai spirit of hospitality and service like the assistance of Thai caddies and the unmatched flavour of Thai cuisine that cannot be duplicated elsewhere. This was the beginning of my desire to make a golf course that has all the unique features that are missing in courses elsewhere.” - Mr. Pornsit Sriorathaikul - Chairman – RG Group of Companies
From an industry perspective, what does RG City teach us?
It's a powerful lesson in legacy and marketability. In an increasingly crowded market, this club has created a unique identity by tapping into the emotional core of the sport.
It's not just a golf course; it’s an experience, a bucket-list destination. Most golfers will never actually experience these famous holes in real life.
It shows that you don't always have to invent something brand new. Sometimes, the most successful business model is to honour tradition, curate it, and present it in a way that is fresh and exciting. Mark and I discussed how this model can drive tourism and build a loyal customer base eager to play these iconic holes for themselves.
I would recommend having a hit there when next in Thailand.
My second experience was completely different. I was fortunate to play at the incredibly exclusive Stonehill Golf Club with my old friend and colleague, Darren Moore. Darren and I worked together back in 2005-2006 at Lakelands Golf Club in Australia, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Design. It’s always good to reconnect with old mates, especially in a setting as magnificent as this.
Darren has been working in Asia for many years and has been at Stonehill since the COVID times.
Having opened just a few years ago, it has already established itself as a premier venue, even hosting a LIV Golf event. The immaculate condition of the course is the first thing that strikes you, and it's a testament to the club's philosophy.
Darren told me that the maintenance crew numbers around 95 people, which highlights their commitment to perfection. What’s even more impressive is the team's composition: 43% of the crew are women. It's an interesting indicator of the changing landscape of our industry. Our industry is challenged to find a quality workforce, and during COVID, Stonehill brought on new staff who had never worked or knew of golf.
Their work ethic and attention to detail, as Darren noted, were second to none. Softer on the equipment and a strong eye to detail. We are lucky to see a single female on our maintenance crews in other regions.
The entire facility, from the Kyle Phillips-designed course to the Timothy Slattery-designed clubhouse, is a masterclass in modern luxury. It's an experience built around hospitality and a clear vision. They've created a destination that attracts not just golfers but also a new type of clientele interested in the fine dining, events, and atmosphere.
What can we learn from Stonehill? This club shows us that the future of golf is not just about the course itself. It's about creating a holistic, high-end experience. It's about meticulous service, an impeccable product, and a commitment to investing in the right people and the right resources. It's about setting a new standard.
