The power of local knowledge-Caddie of the Foshan Open
2019-10-20 09:59:25

Foshan Golf Club caddies are indispensable part of the Foshan Open as they share their expertise and local knowledge of the course with the golfers to ensure that we get an exciting competition.

To be a caddie in an international golf tournament like the Foshan Open is not easy. Training begins in July. They participate in an exercise routine and practise carrying bag for 18 holes. Time is spent learning English and understanding the difference of being a caddie in a professional tournament. During the tournament week, their day can start as early as 4 a.m. as they have to check every hole and green, and practise their English, and ensure their uniform is in perfect condition before they meet their players at the Driving Range.Du Jiejing has caddied in every Foshan Open in the past 6 years and she was really happy to carry bag for the 2017 Champion Oliver Farr.

"He didn't finish very well in the first 2 rounds and he said to me, 'I don't know if we can meet each other tomorrow.' But it turned out he was just lucky enough to make the cut. The next day was a big surprise. He played very well and charged up the leaderboard. And he held his lead through the final round. I was really happy for him!"

"We aim to offer the best service to the player. We usually watch carefully during the practice rounds to figure out his preference for different distances so that we could prepare the clubs and food when he needs it and he can solely focus on his game." She also shared her opinions about the job, "As a caddie, I want golfers be happy with my service and enjoy playing golf."

As a truly international golf tournament, the Foshan Open attracts players from all five continents of the world. Du carried bags for foreign players in every Foshan Open thanks to her English skills. "We have been taught some courtesy expressions and specific golf terms. These players are very professional and will ask our opinions. Compared with Chinese, foreigners are more passionate and would like to talk about something fun more than just work."

When spaking of being involved in every Foshan Open so far, she said, "Everybody was nervous before the first Foshan Open as none of us had been through such an international event. It still feels like yesterday. Now, the 7th is around the corner. But everything is more than ready and we are just excited! The Foshan Open is growing more and more prestigious and attracting more and more spectators year by year. We are really proud that we can play a role in this."

"I feel honoured to be part of the Foshan Open and I look forward to the tournament next week!"