Captain’s Column – Mar 2026
Dear members,
With the reopening of the Back 9, many of you have already had the opportunity to experience the refreshed layout and the new playing conditions. The return to a full 18-hole championship course marks an exciting milestone for the Club, and it is encouraging to see members embracing the changes and exploring the new challenges the course presents.
As with any newly opened course, however, there will naturally be a period of adjustment. One of the most noticeable differences members may experience is a slower pace of play.
Members should expect some degree of slower play on the newly opened Back 9 in the coming weeks. There are several reasons for this, all of which are part of the normal transition period for a new course.
Firstly, many golfers are still familiarising themselves with the new course layout. Learning new landing areas, understanding the placement of hazards, and determining the best approach to each hole takes time. As members become more accustomed to the course design, the pace of play will naturally improve.
Secondly, the previous hybrid configuration was a par 66, while the Club has now returned to the traditional par 72 format. With additional shots required across the round, the overall playing time will inevitably be longer. This is not unusual and in fact reflects the standard pace of play for a full-length course.
The Club has implemented several measures to help manage this transition period and improve the flow of play.
Marshals have been stationed at key points around the course to assist with visibility, monitor pace, and guide players where necessary. Their presence is intended to ensure that groups are able to navigate the course comfortably while maintaining a reasonable rhythm of play.
In addition, certain tee boxes have been temporarily adjusted forward. These changes are designed to optimise landing zones and improve playability while members familiarise themselves with the course. The adjustments also help maintain the flow of play while preserving the intended strategy of each hole.
Members will also notice that “buggy on track” restrictions remain in place.
This measure is necessary because the grass across parts of the course is still in its establishment phase. Allowing unrestricted buggy movement too early could cause significant compaction and damage to the young turf, which would ultimately affect playing conditions for everyone in the longer term.
As the grass continues to mature and the grow-in phase stabilises, these restrictions will be lifted progressively. Our goal is to gradually reintroduce buggy access to the fairways once the turf is sufficiently resilient to withstand regular traffic.
As we move through this important transition period, there are several principles the Club would like to emphasise.
First, the Club is committed to allowing the course adequate time to mature and for members to fully adapt to the new layout before considering any costly or permanent changes. A measured approach will allow the course to settle into its intended design and playing character.
Second, safety and proper course care remain our top priorities. Protecting the condition of the course today ensures that members will continue to enjoy excellent playing conditions in the years ahead.
Third, members’ cooperation is essential in maintaining the quality of the course. Simple but important practices—repairing divots, fixing pitch marks on the greens, and observing course regulations—play a significant role in supporting the health and longevity of the turf.
Finally, patience and shared responsibility will help ensure that the course develops into its best possible form. The grow-in phase is a temporary stage, but the benefits of careful stewardship now will be enjoyed by all members in the future.
On behalf of the Club, thank you for your continued understanding, cooperation, and support. We look forward to seeing the course—and the golfing experience at the Club—continue to improve in the months ahead.
Warm regards,
Kenneth Gn, Club Captain
Sembawang Country Club