Golf on the upswing in Singapore, with return of tournaments and regional golfers

SINGAPORE: Golf is gaining popularity in Singapore, with major tournaments being held in the country, the return of events at local country clubs, and an influx of golfers from the region arriving as borders reopen.

Local industry players said the surge in the sport’s popularity is especially among women and youths.

Amid the uptick in interest, the inaugural Singapore Women's Open was held at Tanah Merah Country Club from Dec 9 to Dec 11. The event featured more than 100 players, including some of the region's top players, with a prize purse of S$1.1 million.

Many across the golf industry are benefiting from the buzz, from businesses selling golf products, to venue hosts and event organisers of golf-related activities.

Mr Bob Seth, managing director of golf shop Golf & Leisure, said his shop hit a rough patch earlier in the pandemic, as COVID-19 restrictions kept shoppers away.

"Our online business was a little better because people didn't want to come out, so that helped a little bit. But our business dropped about 50 per cent during the COVID-19 period,” he said.

His shop sells products ranging from premium clubs to clothing and travel bags. 

However, things have taken a turn for the better for him. With travel now opening up, tourists, especially from neighbouring countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines, are making a beeline for his shop.

The shop's takings have risen back to pre-COVID levels, Mr Seth said.

Golf events at country clubs in Singapore are also slowly getting back in full swing. 

Tanah Merah Country Club general manager Elliott Gray said that this year, the club has introduced new activities targeted at children, such as putting sessions and lantern walks.

“We are trying to build on that to fill out the