Third PGA Members' International Conference is a success

25/11/2019

The third annual PGA Members’ International Conference returned to Thailand earlier this month where more than 45 delegates from 14 countries around the world gathered to network and learn from golf industry experts.

The 2019 Conference was supported by Toro, the Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF), and FENIX XCell, and was staged at world-renowned Laguna Phuket resort, the PGA’s first branded facility in Thailand, from November 10-13.

Delegates enjoyed a round of golf and a welcome barbecue on Sunday before Robert Maxfield officially got the Conference underway on November 11.

In the morning session, Eric Lynge, Chief Executive, AGIF, welcomed visitors to the region and Rudy Anderson, President & CEO of Pacific Links International spoke about the evolution of the club industry in Asia.

Guest speakers in the afternoon included Michael Braidwood, General Manager at Education City Golf Club, Mike Orloff, Managing Director of Golf Industry Central, and Toro’s Regional Sales Manager, Gareth Knight. John Blanch, Thai Country Club’s General Manager, also delivered a presentation on his journey as a PGA Member.

The activities continued on day two with Dominic Wall, The R&A’s Director for Asia Pacific, explaining details and updates around the World Handicapping System.

The topic of delivering an exceptional customer experience was discussed by both Yvonne De Suner Beltran from Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts and 59 Club Director Matt Roberts. Delegates were also treated to a special Gala Dinner held at the stunning XANA Beach Club.

World-renowned biomechanics expert and putting coach Dr Paul Hurrion brought the Conference to a close after delivering his popular ‘Putting Biomechanics’ seminar as part of the Coaching Masterclass on the final day.

Matthew Davies, PGA Regional Manager (Overseas), commented: “I am delighted with how this year’s PGA Conference has gone and that is testament to the fantastic support from the PGA Members who attended, our fantastic host in Laguna Phuket, and our sponsors, Toro, The AGIF, and FENIX XCell.

“Each year we have put together a schedule that aims to be relevant to all of our Members whatever their role and it is clear from the early feedback we have received they find it an excellent opportunity to learn from and network with their fellow industry colleagues.”

“We have already started planning the 2020 event and look forward to speaking with companies who would like to be involved.”

You can view our gallery of images from the PGA Members' International Conference by CLICKING HERE.

What 2019 delegates said:

Dean Nelson – Director of Golf – Hong Kong Golf Club

“The PGA Conference not only provides excellent learning opportunities, but an insight into the Asian golf market. The seminars were wide in ranging and there were takeaways for golf managers, teaching pros and operations staff alike. I was able to grow my own network by attending and developed new friendships with industry colleagues.”

Chris Watson – Managing Director – FORE Golf Management

“With The PGA opening the Conference to non PGA Members from the golf industry, this was a chance for me to learn and access knowledge from some of the most experienced people in the golf industry. I have come away with numerous new business ideas and contacts from within the industry. The PGA Conference is the perfect platform to encourage industry professionals to work together enhancing each other’s businesses.”

Nick Redfern - PGA professional

“This was my second year attending the PGA Conference and I found it to be such an engaging few days with many different individuals from across the golf industry. It was hugely beneficial to me as a professional and I would recommend anyone in the industry to attend next year.”