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Threading Shots Through Gaps In The Trees Stroke Savers

I have played golf for more than 40 years. Most days on the course I find myself shaking my head at the dreadful decisions people make, especially after hitting their tee shot into the trees. The sound of the ball pinging around amongst Japanese cedars happens far to often and even has begun to creep into my dreams. You cannot imagine my frustration as I watch hard-working students not improve their scores because they try to weave their ball through a gap in the trees that even Phil Mickelson wouldn't attempt. Inevitably they end up with scorecard wrecking 9 and I realise their recent lobotomy was a complete success.

Golf courses in Japan are mostly parkland-style courses whose fairways are heavily tree-lined. It is quite a rare occurrence to play links golf here. Even the...

How to prepare mentally for Matchplay 4 keys to remember

Golf is a sport that requires both physical and mental preparation in order to perform at your best. While many golfers focus on the physical aspects of the game, such as swing mechanics and course management, it is equally important to focus on the mental aspects of matchplay. Get yourself ready for that monthly medal and learn how to mentally prepare for matchplay in order to give yourself the best chance of success.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that matchplay is different from strokeplay. In stroke play, the goal is to shoot the lowest score possible over the course of a round. In matchplay, the goal is to beat your opponent. This shift in mindset can be difficult for some golfers to adjust to, but it is essential to understand that matchplay is a...

Lifestyle

PUMA GOLF × Saturdays NYC New Collaboration Inspired By Puma Clydes

PUMA GOLF and New York lifestyle label Saturdays NYC are back with their second collaboration, launching in Japan on October 2, 2026.

At the heart of the collection is a limited-edition PUMA CLYDE GOLF shoe, reworked in an eye-catching leopard colourway created exclusively with Saturdays NYC. Originally introduced in 1973 as NBA icon Walt “Clyde” Frazier’s signature basketball shoe, the Clyde has become one of PUMA’s most recognisable lifestyle silhouettes. This latest version brings that classic streetwear heritage onto the course.

The collaboration also includes coordinated apparel, combining PUMA GOLF’s performance-led approach with Saturdays NYC’s relaxed, refined city style. The result is a collection designed to move easily between the fairway, the clubhouse and...

PEARLY GATES x Pokémon Pikachu Arrives on the Fairway

Japanese golf label PEARLY GATES brings Pikachu to the course for Fall 2026 — but this is not your average character collaboration.

Built around the brand’s signature deep navy and elevated with rich gold detailing, the collection gives Pokémon a more refined, golf-ready look. Expect wearable apparel, playful accessories and a standout dark navy golf bag made from houndstooth-pattern jacquard fabric, finished with an embroidered Pikachu emblem.

Also in the range: a bold Poké Ball multi-purpose pouch and a ball-shaped cleaning cloth complete with a Pikachu-tail-inspired charm.

It is premium Japanese golf style with a little more personality — ideal for players looking to pick up something fun, distinctive and unmistakably Japan while they are...

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