Azlin Khalid receiving his trophy from Biwako Team Captain Katsuragawa Hiroshi
Exchange of Mementos between President Datuk Nik Azman and Biwako Team Captain Katsuragawa Hiroshi
RSGC is privileged to maintain global affiliations with some of the most prestigious clubs worldwide, including a significant partnership with Biwako Country Club. This connection, sparked in the late 1970s through the professional and personal relationships between Tommy Lee, Alex Lee, and Tadao Yamaoka, evolved into a friendship rooted in mutual respect and shared experiences. The Reciprocal Agreement, formalized on 10 May 1977, paved the way for our inaugural visit to Biwako Country Club in 1981, initiating an annual tradition.
Casey Ng tees off in his usual eye-catching attire
On the weekend of 24 and 25 February 2024, RSGC warmly welcomed Biwako Country Club for the annual Biwako Memorial Cup. A trophy donated by them, which serves not just as a competition but as a celebration of the enduring bonds between the members of both clubs, fostering cultural exchange and friendship. This annual event, taking place each February, offers our Japanese friends a warm escape from their winter, complemented by a return visit to Biwako by our members in April, an occasion eagerly anticipated for the opportunity to witness the spectacular Sakura blooms.
The event on day one commenced with a breakfast in the Banquet Hall followed by a group photograph against the backdrop of the Old Course not only captures the spirit of camaraderie but also sets the stage for the competitive and cooperative play that defines the Cup. The opening day featured 32 players competing on the East Course in a 4 Ball Better Ball Matchplay format. The day’s activities culminated with a cultural celebration in the Banquet Hall, highlighted by a performance from Balle-Balle Entertainment that showcased a lively assortment of Malaysian multicultural traditional dances, much to the delight of our Japanese guests. The day wrapped up with a group photo with the dancers, capturing the spirit of the occasion.
The following day replicated the initial day’s format, starting with breakfast and a group photo, leading into the golf challenge with 40 players on the East Course in a Strokeplay format. The event concluded in the Banquet Hall with a luncheon and the prize-giving ceremony. RSGC Team Captain Ezani Abu Bakar’s welcoming speech was followed by a toast to our Biwako guests, reciprocated by Biwako Team Captain Katsuragawa Hiroshi with a speech and toast to RSGC Members. This cherished tradition celebrated the enduring friendship between the two clubs, highlighted by the prize-giving ceremony with both team captains presenting the prizes. Special congratulations to RSGC Member Azlin Khalid for his maiden win in the Biwako Memorial Cup. The performance by RSGC’s resident band ‘In The Groove’ added a nice ending to the event.
Reflecting on this year’s Biwako Memorial Cup success, we eagerly anticipate the continuation of this esteemed tradition, further cementing the bonds of friendship and respect that unite RSGC and Biwako. The exchange of mementos between RSGC President Datuk Nik Azman Mohd Zain and Biwako Team Captain Katsuragawa Hiroshi underscored the mutual respect and admiration at the heart of our relationship. The memories forged during this event will be cherished, ensuring our partnership’s growth and prosperity for years to come.
Joget Lambak
