Teeing off this month is the HSBC Women’s Champions 2010, featuring the world’s leading female golfers. We spoke with ROBBIE HENCHMAN, Senior Vice President of tournament organiser and promoter IMG, about what we can expect from the prestigious event, and about his own form on the fairway.

How’s your golf game?
I hit the ball very averagely and very sporadically. My handicap is 11 at the moment. The most enjoyable aspect of my game is driving. The worst? Lack of concentration. I’d love to play two rounds in a row with a score below 80 each time.

Where do you play in Singapore, and how often?
I alternate between Tanah Merah Country Club, Sentosa Golf Club and Singapore Island Country Club. I manage to play once a month on average.

Favourite course you’ve played in the region?
The Garden Course at Tanah Merah Country Club. We’re staging the HSBC Women’s Champions there for the third year. It’s beautifully landscaped with water features and large greens. It’s also challenging because it’s a very long course when you play from the championship tees; the greens are fast, so tricky pin placements can make things very tough.

Tell us a bit about IMG’s involvement in this tournament.
IMG has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with HSBC. As the organiser and promoter of this event, we’re extremely happy with its success so far, and the reception it has received in Singapore. I believe it has achieved HSBC’s objectives and they are happy with the product. With the recent economic downturn, no one can be sure of sponsorships continuing, but I think the strength of the product and the commitment that HSBC shows to golf sponsorship in particular combined for them to be able to come back and support the event for another few years.

Why should readers come along?
It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the world’s best female golfers on your doorstep. It’s also a great day out for the family, not just for the hardcore fans. There’s something for everyone with the Interactive Village providing plenty of entertainment, games, prizes, and food and beverages, making it a complete day of fun and action both on and off the golf course.

What was your favourite moment from last year’s Championship?
Watching Jiyai Shin on the final day when she came from behind to record six birdies and her second consecutive round of 66 to take the title. This kick-started a remarkable rookie season for Shin and she ended the year as world number two in the Rolex Rankings.

Who are some of the big-name players we can expect to see?
We will have a field of 63 of the world’s top golfers. Each player has to qualify by winning an event on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour or being one of the top 20 players on the Rolex Rankings.

The world’s top two players are also our past two champions: Lorena Ochoa (2008) and Jiyai Shin (2009). They’ll be back to battle it out, together with a host of challengers. There will be a Singaporean entrant, too, so fans will have a local golfer to support, along with the best from the LPGA.


The HSBC Women’s Champions 2010 is on from February 25-28 at the Tanah Merah Country Club,
Garden Course. For tickets, visit www.sistic.com.sg or for more info visit www.hsbcgolf.com.