Banyan Golf Club
Greetings from my office for the next seven days. Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin, Thailand is my site for the 2012 Asian Tour Qualifying School with the first stage beginning on January 11th and ending on Saturday January 14th. Yesterday was my first time on the property and I came away pretty impressed.
A majority of golf courses outside Bangkok are tucked away in jungles and forests off the beaten path. This one is no different. However, the drive is definitely worth it. Upon arrival, you are met in a courtyard surrounded by two 20 foot high, beautifully designed, cement walls. Something that looks more like a resort spa than a golf course. The clubhouse itself is a nice blend of East meets West with an overall contemporary theme inside while showcasing ancient Thai pagoda tops above.
The course itself is set on a hillside with rolling terrain that gives golfers variety on each shot. As the caddies tell me, the daily winds coupled with the elevation changes make the yardage (7361 yards from the back) play different every round. My favorite hole would have to be the short downhill 147 yard par 3 15th. The hole demands a precise shot to hold a green that slopes away while trying to avoid the scattering of bunkers. In addition, the backdrop allows your mind an opportunity to wander as you take in the beauty of the sea. A great challenge as you make your way to the homestretch of holes.
This course should be on the list to play if you ever find yourself in Hua Hin. And don’t forget, dinner and drinks on the beach are just minutes away once the round is over!
TOMMY MANSUWAN 