The Interclub Away Match to Kansai, Japan is always one of the most well-attended and looked-forward-to trips by RSGC Members. This year was no different, with a group of 20 Members making the journey to compete at two of our long-standing reciprocal clubs – Biwako Country Club (12–13 April 2025) and Nara International Golf Club (15–16 April 2025). The matches were led by RSGC Captain Raymond Yeoh at Biwako and RSGC Team Captain Eugene Khoo at Nara.
BIWAKO COUNTRY CLUB
At Biwako Country Club, the RSGC team was warmly welcomed by BCC Captain, Mr. Fumiaki Kobayashi. The strong bond between both clubs dates back to 10 May 1977, when a special agreement was signed to strengthen ties through golf. As part of the arrangement, Biwako Country Club donates the Biwako Memorial Cup to be played at RSGC, witnessed by Biwako members. In return, RSGC donates the RSGC Trophy to Biwako Country Club, which is contested in Japan in the presence of RSGC members. This long-standing tradition continues to be a highlight for both clubs.
One of the most memorable moments at Biwako was the traditional matcha tea ceremony during the prize presentation, which our members truly enjoyed. The winner of the RSGC Trophy was Mr. Takashi Tanaka, with an excellent Nett score of 69.
On the course, the top performer among RSGC members was Wong Hong Nung, who scored an impressive 69 Nett. Chan Shee Check followed closely with 70 Nett, while Sunil Chahal came in third with a 74 Nett.
NARA INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB
The next stop was Nara International Golf Club, where 18 RSGC Members participated in the second leg of the tour. At Nara, the team was received by Nara International Golf Club Captain, Mr. Jiro Kobayashi.
The relationship between RSGC and Nara International Golf Club began in 2013, thanks to RSGC member Mr. Joji Matsu, who introduced the club to our management. A formal agreement was signed in 2015 by then-Captain Wong Lee Ming, Past President Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon, and Nara International Golf Club President Mr. Okahashi.
The match at Nara featured a fun and unique format known as “Point Tony,” similar to Stableford. Once again, Wong Hong Nung delivered an outstanding performance, winning with 40 points. Lim Tong Leong came second with 38 points, and Harith Noor Nordin finished third with 37 points (OCB), tied with Casey Ng. Novelty prizes were also awarded, with Seiichi Fukuyama winning Nearest to the Pin (3.85 metres) and Lee Heng Keng winning Nearest to the Line (3.10 metres) for RSGC side.
RSGC extends a sincere thank you to both Biwako Country Club and Nara International Golf Club for their warm hospitality and gracious hosting throughout the trip. Every RSGC Member thoroughly enjoyed the experience — both on and off the course. The matches, the cultural touches, and the friendships forged made this Interclub trip truly memorable. We look forward to welcoming our Japanese friends back to Kuala Lumpur in the near future!
