The Home Friendly Interclub Match against Seoul Hanyang Country Club, held on 16 and 17 January 2024, transcended mere competition to celebrate decades of friendship and mutual respect between the two clubs.
A Historic Partnership
The foundation for ongoing collaboration was set on 21 July 1982, with a reciprocal agreement signed by RSGC President Justice Tan Sri Dato Abdul Hamid and SHCC Chairman Choe, Se Hwang. The initial discussions for the first Interclub Match, which took place in July 2023, were sparked by Mr. Alex Hwang Il Rok’s visit to SHCC, leading to a series of engagements that culminated in the inaugural friendly golf match. The 2023 match saw RSGC members visiting Seoul-Hanyang and Nam Seoul Golf Clubs, emphasizing the friendly nature of this sports diplomacy.
The 2024 Edition
The 2024 edition saw participation from key committee members of SHCC, including Kim, See Jae (Vice Chairman), Cha, Jeom Sik (Director of International Friendship Committee), Hong, Bag Pa (Board of Directors Member) and Yoo, Young Chong (Board of Directors Member). with a total of 25 players from SHCC, comprising 17 men and 8 ladies. RSGC was represented by 18 men and 8 ladies, including many from our Korean fraternity. The event was marked by a spirit of camaraderie and competition.
Notably,RSGC Interclub competitions traditionally involve only Men; however, this time the Club also welcomed 8 lady players from SHCC and a social game for the ladies was arranged. Our Korean ladies gladly volunteered to help the Lady Golf Captain host the SHCC ladies.
Cultural Celebrations and Competitive Spirit
The match began with a warm welcome for SHCC members, followed by a group photo session and a practice round on the Old Course. The afternoon was marked by a cultural feast provided by Balle-Balle Entertainment. The troupe’s performances of Malaysian cultural dances offered a glimpse into the nation’s rich heritage, weaving together elements from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Sabah, and Sarawak traditions.
The post-battle scene shifted to the Banquet Hall, where players gathered for a well-deserved lunch and the prize-giving ceremony. RSGC Captain John Eu and SHCC Vice Chairman Kim, See Jae, presenting novelty prizes, and exchanging mementos, symbolizing the deepening friendship and mutual respect between the two clubs. The event closed on a high note with performances by the RSGC Resident Band, “In The Groove.”
The event highlighted the international camaraderie between RSGC and Seoul Hanyang Country Club, showcasing sports’ role in connecting cultures and inspiring unity for future engagements.
