Thailand’s golf ace Thongchai Jaidee reveals secrets of his success during a golf clinic sponsored by HSBC on Tuesday. (BOB DUNGO JR.)

Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee, one of the finest Asian golfers in the world today, on Tuesday revealed that his military background helped take him to where he is right now.

“That’s why I want my juniors to try the army,” Jaidee said after holding a golf clinic for HSBC’s valued customers and friends yesterday at the Manila Polo Club.

Jaidee, 40, the leading player in the Asian Tour Order of Merit, flew in from Minnesota where he competed in the PGA Championship, and tied for 36th, scoring five-over–par 293, 13 strokes behind the winner.

During his talk, Jaidee recalled the difficulties serving as a paratrooper under the Royal Thai Army.

“It was very difficult. We have to wake up at 4:30 in the morning, run five kilometers, eat breakfast at 7:30 and train until 7 in the evening,” said Jaidee, a two-time Asian No. 1 who turned pro 10 years ago.

“I don’t know what the target for my life was and I’m trying to get a life,” he added.

Jaidee stressed the importance of being physically fit especially in overcoming pressure during tournaments.

“My training in golf is almost the same. I wake up at five in the morning, do physical and muscle exercises. When you’re fit, you can play well,” Jaidee said.

Jaidee arrived in Manila at dawn yesterday, had a couple of hours of rest, before proceeding to the golf clinic, where he shared personalized tips and hands-on exercises.

Incorporating a unique philanthropic twist into the event, HSBC also held the “Nearest the Pin” competitions for each of the five sessions, agreeing to donate up to $2,000 per yard to UNICEF’s Regional Youth and Education Programe for a total maximum donation of $10,000 (about P480,000).

“As a player from Asia, I’ve worked hard to get where I am today. It means a great deal to me personally to be here to help children have access to better education and better opportunities,” said Jaidee, who immediately left for Jakarta last night.

“HSBC Golf Day is one of several we are holding in the region and serves several purposes,” HSBC president and CEO Mark Watkinson added.