PGA Members’ International Conference bounces back with a buzz at Laguna Phuket

Delegates also got the chance to experience the resort’s PGA Academy and tour-level practice facilities when DP World Tour and Asian Tour short game specialist coach and PGA Member Matthew Tipper staged two outdoor clinics. Tipper demonstrated the coaching techniques that have led him to become one of the most sort-after short game coaches in the world.

There was also an opportunity for conference goers to check out the latest product launches from ball-tracking technology companies Trackman and Foresight Sports.

PGA Executive Directors Tristan Crew and Richard Barker were also in attendance to provide International Members with an update on the Association’s activities in 2022, which included the launch of PGA Play and PGA Excel.

Commenting on the event, PGA Chief Executive Robert Maxfield, who gave the opening conference address, said: “We were delighted to be able to return with the PGA Members’ International Conference to the stunning Laguna Phuket in Thailand. Once again, the conference is a great way to meet fellow Members, share ideas and learn from some of the most respected figures in the golf industry.

“We’ve already received lots of incredible feedback from Members and delegates who attended the conference, and our thanks go to our esteemed panel of speakers, our presenting partners Toro, and everyone who made the effort to attend. Our gratitude also goes to Paul Wilson, Deputy Managing Director Laguna Phuket, and all of his team and everyone at the resort for making us feel so welcome and for providing such excellent hospitality throughout our stay.”

PGA Member Dean Nelson, who joined St Andrews Bay Development as Chief Owners Representative last year after serving as Director of Golf at Hong Kong Golf Club for 12 years, said: “After Covid had postponed the conference for the previous few years, I was keen to return to Phuket and get together with my regional colleagues.

“Learning from industry leaders and experts provided invaluable information and insights into best practices currently being used throughout the region. It was a thoroughly enjoyable conference and a great way to stay up to speed with the PGA and the latest developments in our association. The networking opportunity with our industry peers allows the reconnection that has been missed over the past few years.”

Brad Burgess, Managing Director at Sports Turf Solutions, one of the guest speakers at the conference, said: “It was an honour to be speak about turfgrasses at the PGA International Meeting. It’s a great concept to combine people from all sectors of the industry with PGA Professionals over several days. I made a lot of new friends, while at the same time teaching each other delegates about the challenges that face our industry and what’s coming in the future. I hope I can take part in the next conference.”