THE HONDA LPGA THAILAND

This month sees the fifteenth edition of the Honda LPGA Thailand golf tournament, being played on the old course at Siam Country Club here in Pattaya. The field this year includes some of the top players in the world of women’s golf and makes for a great day out for anyone interested in the game of golf. Last year saw Ariya Jutangugarn become the first Thai winner of the event since it’s inception and she returns to defend her title this year. A host of other top ranked players are teeing it up this time, including the number one ranked player Jin Young Ko, Lydia Ko, Danielle Kang, Brooke Henderson from Canada and many more.

The prize money of one point six million US Dollars and the 500 ranking points that are for grabs make this the richest tournament played in Thailand throughout the year and helps to attract players from all over the world.

The course itself, opened in 1971, went through a major facelift in 2007 which promoted the layout into a test of golf that is now of a true championship standard. After a similar overhaul and upgrading of the clubhouse, the course was officially renamed the Siam Country Club Old Course, Pattaya.

A par 72 of just under 6600 yards, laid out on over 32 acres of land, the course and clubhouse can welcome these top quality players having deservedly taken its place in the roster of international championship standard courses played around the world. The organisers of the event and the course itself must be very pleased with the entry this year. Not only is the host country well represented but many of the current top thirty in the world will also be in attendance. It looks to me like one of the strongest fields ever assembled here and will make for a thrilling four days.

I attended this tournament myself a few years ago and I can thoroughly recommend a visit if you are a golf fan. Restrictions allowing of course! The facilities are first class and the day out will not break the bank by any means. Day tickets are very reasonable, especially on the first two days and once on the course the food and drink available is both plentiful and reasonable. The golf itself will be of the highest standard and to see some of these world class players up close on a terrific course and with the quality entertainment facilities to complement it I’m sure it will make for a great day out.