RSGC Members have the privilege of exploring numerous prestigious golf clubs in Japan, among which Nara International Golf Club stands out as a noteworthy destination. The connection was initiated by RSGC Member Joji Matsu in December 2013, leading to a significant milestone on 24 November 2015, when a reciprocal agreement was signed through the endorsements of Past President Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon, Past Captain Wong Lee Ming, and Nara’s President Okahashi. This accord paved the way for the first Friendly Golf Game on 25 November 2015, bringing together five members from Nara and nine from RSGC – a tradition that has thrived annually since then
The 2024 reciprocal visit held on 27 and 28 February, saw the RSGC extend a warm reception to the Nara International Golf Club for the Friendly Interclub Match. The event kicked off with breakfast in the Banquet Hall and a group photograph against the stunning vista of the Old Course. Day one witnessed 24 players engaging in a 4 Ball Better Ball Matchplay format on the Old Course. Post golf, the day’s festivities started with a vibrant cultural celebration by Balle-Balle Entertainment, which captivated everyone with a medley of Malaysian multicultural dances, a favourite with our Japanese guests. The afternoon concluded with a memorable group photo with the performers.
Mirroring the first day’s enthusiasm, the second day began with breakfast and another group photo, leading into the golfing challenge with 28 players on the East Course. The camaraderie and competitive spirit culminated in the Banquet Hall with a luncheon and the much-anticipated prizegiving ceremony. RSGC Captain John Eu’s warm welcome and toast set the stage for Nara Team Captain Asano Hideteka’s reciprocal gesture, fostering an atmosphere of enduring friendship. The presentation of prizes by the team Captains, and the performance by RSGC resident band In The Groove, marked a fitting close to the event. Among the highlights, RSGC Member Dato Frankie Cheah won a hat-trick of three novelty prizes out of the four contested for Day 2, and Frankie was beaming with happiness; he only missed one novelty prize as Tew Chit Beng won it on Hole 17th of the Old Course.
RSGC Team Captain, Ezani Abu Bakar, exchanging mementos with Nara Team Captain, Asano Hidetaka
Dato Frankie Cheah brimming as he clinches a hat-trick of 3 novelty prizes on Day 2
This year’s rendezvous with Nara International Golf Club not only celebrated an ongoing tradition but also underscored the deep bonds of friendship and respect that unite RSGC and Nara. The exchange of mementos between RSGC Team Captain Ezani Abu Bakar and Nara Team Captain Asano Hideteka was a testament to the mutual admiration that is at the core of this relationship. As we reflect on the success of this year’s event, we look forward to the continuation of this tradition, confident that it will foster the growth and prosperity of our partnership for many years to come. The memories and friendships forged during this event are treasures to be cherished, that define the unity and respect between the two clubs.
