Every week we implore you to get off your duff and do some exercise. But this week, we’re cutting you a break with some quasi-exercise. Get your blood... somewhat circulating and your legs stretched out on the golf course this weekend. And if you’ve never even thought about picking up a club before, the cool weather makes for an ideal time to start. For the beginner, Hong Kong is a good place to start golfing. Sophia Haines, a golfer of seven years, says it is not hard to pick up golf. “If you get the swing right at the start then you’re set,” she says. But if you need a wee bit more guidance than that, we’ve rounded up all the necessary details to get you on your way to becoming the next Tiger Woods. Just remember, it’s a precision sport, so if things don’t go right initially, keep practicing.
The Essentials
Of course, before you start, you need to get the gear. Usually, beginners get a so-called “Half Set” of clubs to get started. A Half Set includes a driver, a putter, a 3-wood, a 7-iron, a 9-iron and a pitching wedge. The main difference between clubs is the shafts. A graphite shaft is best for beginners. You can buy sets of beginner clubs for around $3,000-$5,000.
A few choice recommendations
Try the PING G10 series models for beginners.
PING G10 Wood: $450-500
PING G10 7 Iron set: around $2,400
PING Crazy-I putter: $1,200-$1,500
Tips on Buying Clubs
PuraGolf founder Kevin Chan gives us some tips on buying your first set of clubs.
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1. Rubber grips offer more grip than leather ones.
2. A regular shaft offers good all-round performance for
any beginner.
3. Your short game is important, so spend more on your pitching wedge and putter. A putter is an incredibly personal club. The feel of it should suit you and how you hit the ball.
4. It is worth doing a club fitting before you buy. Then you can determine what you need from a club.
Besides clubs, you will need a stand bag for your kit, gloves and also golf shoes. A stand bag will cost around $1,300, while gloves are necessary because they provide a more secure grip and prevent blisters. Finally, get adequate golf shoes. The spikes on the sole are used for grip, as the slopes can get wet. Many courses/driving ranges are strict about what shoes you wear on their turf.
Get the Stuff
PuraGolf
PuraGolf are club fitting experts and an official club fitter for PING golf clubs. They can tailor your clubs with the use of their FlightScope system that will analyze your stance, swing, power and the backspin you put on the ball. After 10-15 shots, they can calculate an average and determine your club needs, custom-fitting them right there in the workshop. Suite 1A, Hillier Commercial Building, 65-67 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, 2815-2818.
