The Forbidden Game

April 28, 2014
Golf has yet to catch on in China, in part, according to Washburn, because the government bans the building of golf courses. In this rigorously reported book, Washburn, the managing editor of Asia Society Online, describes how developers and local governments keep trying to build courses, often by driving residents from their homes and stiffing them on financial agreements. He follows three people in this land of limited opportunity: Martin Moore, an American golf course designer thriving in Asia, tries to handle the lofty expectations of his bosses; Zhou Xunshu, a security guard and pro golfer, finds his skills dulled by work and family obligations; and Wang Libo, who lives in Hainan, the southernmost province of China, gets squeezed out by another golf course. Washburn captures China’s shift from its agrarian roots toward more Western pursuits in this engaging story.

August 1, 2014

In a land where the building of golf courses is prohibited, why in recent years have hundreds suddenly opened throughout the country? Having spent a decade living in China and researching the subject, Washburn, (managing editor, Asia Society) intends to find some answers. This debut title explores the taboo subject of golf through the eyes of three people: Martin, an American expatriate seeking to profit from the rapid construction of new courses; Zhou, a villager moonlighting as a course security guard and unexpectedly becoming interested in the game; and Wang, a farmer whose new neighbor (a golf course) leads him to become an entrepreneur. All three became successful, though not without tribulation. The one element missing from the discussion is golf equipment; it is difficult to find materials such as shoes, apparel, and clubs that aren't manufactured in China. VERDICT Washburn provides a compelling read on Chinese economic development, using golf as a looking glass. However, the story will appeal more to those interested in business planning and development than the casual sports fan.--Steven Silkunas, Fernandina Beach, FL

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