Mission Hills Phuket Golf Resort & Spa
Sir James Country Club - Forest Hills
Chiangmai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort
Royal Hills Golf Resort & Spa, Khao Yai
Historians believe that the term ‘caddie’ derived from the word ‘cadet’ and was introduced back in the 16th Century.
So the story goes, whilst receiving her education in France, Mary Queen of Scots was tended to on the links by young men called cadets, pronounced “cad-day” by the French – and the term stuck!
Bedecked in colourful numbered uniforms, every Thai golf course boasts a wave of smiling ladies and girls and – occasionally – men and boys, plying the fairways. These are the caddies of Thailand, a trained community.
Caddies don’t just appear overnight; at many of the golf clubs they actually attend caddie school where they learn, to some degree, many aspects of the game with the intention of ensuring everyone’s golfing experience is as satisfying as possible.
Their smiling, almost compulsory, service begins even before golfers leave their transport. No sooner have players pulled up at the bag-drop than the cheerful caddies spring into action, unloading bags and checking the number of clubs therein. Caddy fees at Thai golf courses are very reasonable, but it is normal practice to tip your caddy – provided you’re happy with the service that is!
Throughout the game they’ll brandish a shade-rendering umbrella at the sun as golfers tread the fairways. They will also replace your divots and, if required, drive your golf cart.
After observing a couple of swings, the more experienced caddies will have an idea of an individual’s playing abilities, but will seldom offer advice unless asked and, even then, are more inclined to inform you of the remaining yardage to the hole than advising you on which club to best use – although they probably know the answer!
After all, they’re used to the greens at their club and know
how to treat them! However, just once in a while you’ll find a
caddie who’s so good that he or she can club you and, if you’re
playing in a competition, this can be a big help – especially if
you’re a relative novice or haven’t played the course before.
Loch Palm Golf Club, Phuket
