(From L to R: SGA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Joshua Ho, SGA Vice-President, Mr Ivan Chua, Speaker of Parliament, Singapore, Mr Seah Kian Peng, Singapore Senior Golfers’ Society Golfers’ President, Mr Raymond Chua, Singapore Ladies Golf Association, Ms Gillian Sim, and Singapore Senior Golfers’ Society Golfers’ Captain, Mr Peter Koh.)
Singapore, June 5: Octogenarian golfers were in full swing as they teed off at the inaugural Silver Swingers Showdown – Swinging into the 80s Invitational, organised by the Singapore Golf Association (SGA), Singapore Ladies Golf Association (SLGA) and Singapore Senior Golfers Society (SSGS) at Orchid Country Club on Thursday.
32 golfers aged 80 and above came together in a celebration of active ageing, friendship and lifelong participation in sport, demonstrating how golf continues to enrich lives well into the later years.
The event, which featured Mr. Seah Kian Peng, Speaker of Parliament as the Guest of Honour, comes amid growing national conversations around healthy ageing, with golf increasingly recognised for its physical, mental and social benefits.
“Golf is a unique game. It challenges us to keep learning, to stay patient, and to enjoy the company of others. That is why events like this are so meaningful. They bring people together, strengthen friendships, and remind us that growing older need not mean slowing down. Instead, it can be a time to continue pursuing our passions, staying connected, and embracing new experiences,” said Mr. Seah.
As Singapore places increasing emphasis on healthy and active ageing, the event highlighted the role golf can play in promoting physical well-being, mental resilience and social connection among seniors.
For 81-year-old Hng Siew Choo, golf has become more than a pastime. It is also a way of bringing generations of his family together.
“We started with sports like table tennis and badminton. But as we grew older, we decided to take up golf. It brings every generation of our family together. Golf is one of the few sports where grandparents, parents and children can all play together,” said Hng.
Fellow participant Jeffrey Fones, 82, believes the game has been instrumental in helping him maintain an active lifestyle.
“All my friends are golfers. I only see myself stopping when I’m unable to walk. As long as we can play, we will play. It keeps me active,” he said.
Ivan Chua, Vice President of SGA said: “We are delighted to welcome so many participants to the inaugural Silver Swingers Showdown. The event highlights how golf can contribute to healthy and active ageing while fostering meaningful social connections and a sense of community.
“We hope this invitational will become a regular feature on the local golfing calendar and continue inspiring more seniors to embrace active lifestyles through golf.”
Raymond Chua, President of the SSGS, said the Silver Swingers Showdown reflects the shared commitment of the SGA, SLGA and SSGS to promote inclusivity and lifelong participation in the sport.
“By creating opportunities for senior golfers to continue enjoying the game, the event serves as a reminder that golf can be played and enjoyed at every stage of life,” said Raymond.