When I was still living in France, I was a member from 2015 to 2022 at a fairly well-known golf club in the far south of France. I’d rather not name it here.

During the early years, one of the most enjoyable competitions was the Gardeners’ Cup.
On this occasion, the entire grounds team would organise the competition; the groundsmen would set up stands along the course where they served us food and drink – it was great fun. It was also an opportunity to get to know the staff in a different way, to build relationships, and the competition fees were donated to the groundsmen, to whom some players would occasionally give an extra tip.

Like almost all social events, this competition has been scrapped in recent years by the golf club management, who have methodically set about destroying everything positive that existed on this course. This certainly helped me decide to move on to pastures new.

I imagine that this sort of groundskeepers’ competition exists elsewhere in France, which is a sign of a friendly atmosphere.

Here in Thailand, where golf courses have a large staff (groundskeepers, caddies, various service staff at the driving range, reception, bar and changing rooms), I wondered if the same sort of events existed.

Not really.

But at the Royal Golf Club in Hua Hin, there is a big staff party once a year. It’s not an event open to golfers. All the staff get together for a big meal. For the occasion, some of the caddies turn into dancers, and other staff members into musicians.
I’ve seen a few videos; it looks like great fun.

At another golf course, Pranburi Golf Club, located within the Fort Thanarat military camp, a caddie competition takes place every March. This is an internal competition amongst the caddies, not intended for customers.
Participation in this competition is compulsory for all caddies, with penalties for non-compliance.

It must be said that here, the penalties are no laughing matter. For example, a caddie whose client hits a ball at another player on the course – such as a player from the previous group – is held responsible and suspended from the course for three months.

Caddies in Thailand are always smiling, but it is not an easy job.