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UK Golf College Launches New Programme for Young Swedish Golf Students

Jul 122010

UK based The Golf College announced today that it was launching its new 2010/11 Programme, which will now include a unique programme for young Swedish golfers who want improve their golf and English language skills at the same time. This programme will be run from The Golf College’s Spanish base in Bonmont on the Costa Dorada.

Paul Lyons, Managing Director of The Golf College, commented:”Our new 2010/11 programme has been broadened so that we can now offer young Swedish golfers aged 16+, the opportunity to take a 10 week English language course, whilst being given daily golf tuition by our PGA qualified staff. We think it’s a unique offering which will really appeal to Swedish junior players who want to take their game to the next level, but are hampered by the long winters.”

Lyons added:”We believe that our base at Bonmont is the perfect environment in which to combine academic and sporting development. It has a top quality Robert Trent Junior course, with fantastic facilities and is located in a very secure and peaceful environment, so there are no distractions from work and golf.”

Denis Pugh is the Golf College’s Master Professional, and will be providing a clinic for the new young Swedish golfers who attend the new programme. Denis has taught hundreds of Tour professionals, including Colin Montgomerie the 8 times winner of the European Order of Merit. He is currently coaching 2009 World Cup Champions Francesco and Edoardo Molinari.

Daily coaching sessions will be taken by The Golf College’s resident PGA trained professionals, under the guidance of Paul Lyons, who is himself a former European Tour player.

Lyons concluded:”We hope that by offering young Swedish players access to an English language qualification and the opportunity to accelerate their game improvement over the winter months, we will be able to attract some exciting new talent to The Golf College. We are also interested in bringing in Swedish students to our full two year, three term course, where they can study for an NVQ in Golf and the BTEC in General Sport, which provides the equivalent of two ‘A’ levels. This includes a 10 week winter camp at Bonmont.”

GCI works with Kingsbarns

Media & market No Responses »

Feb 222010

Kingsbarns clubhouse

Golf Communications International is working with one of Scotland‘s leading golf courses, Kingsbarns Golf Links.
Since opening in 2000, Kingsbarns has gained a reputation as one of the world’s best modern links courses. The Kyle Phillips designed course, which is located near St Andrews, has regularly been ranked in international top 100 course rankings and each year is one of the host courses for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship on the European Tour.

GCI will be working with Kingsbarns providing a range of media relations services. This will include proactive press work for the course and handling press enquiries as well as organising press trips to the prestigious venue.

Stuart McEwen, general manager of Kingsbarns, said, “We are pleased to be working with GCI and believe this will help us in promoting Kingsbarns as one of Scotland’s finest golf courses. Helena has excellent contacts within the golf industry which will be invaluable to us, particularly in a year when the Open Championship is returning to St Andrews.“

Helena Woodcock, who runs GCI, said, “I am delighted to be working with a course of Kingsbarns´ stature. It already enjoys an excellent reputation as one of the world’s leading modern links courses and I will be working with them to further develop their media profile.“

Celtic Manor Resort unveils €2.5 million Twenty Ten Bridge

Architecture & design, Championship & event No Responses »

Feb 112010

Crossing to new practice ground completes €18 million Ryder Cup investment

A new bridge that will transfer players and spectators to and from the practice ground during this year’s Ryder Cup matches has been officially opened.

The £2 million, 120-metre twin-suspension bridge completes a £16 million investment by The Celtic Manor Resort – having built a new course, clubhouse and surrounding infrastructure in time to host one of sport’s biggest events, the 2010 Ryder Cup.

Primarily a footbridge for spectators, the bridge will also be able to carry golf buggies transporting players and officials, as well as emergency vehicles, when The Ryder Cup is staged at Celtic Manor between 27th September and 3rd October.
First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones AM, cut the ribbon on the cable stayed bridge over the River Usk in the company of Sir Terry Matthews, Chairman of The Celtic Manor Resort, and Richard Hills, Europe’s Ryder Cup Director.
“We are proud to open this wonderful new bridge as the final major piece of construction for this year’s Ryder Cup,” said Sir Terry Matthews, Chairman of The Celtic Manor Resort.

“We have invested a lot of time and resources in creating The Twenty Ten Course – the first golf course in history to be purpose built for staging The Ryder Cup – and the surrounding infrastructure, which includes this fantastic bridge across the River Usk.

“This bridge is an important part of our commitment to provide the best possible playing conditions when the top golfers from Europe and America grace the event, as well as enhancing the spectator experience throughout the three days of play.”

Carwyn Jones, First Minister of Wales, said: “The Ryder Cup is a huge event for Wales and I congratulate Sir Terry Matthews and the team at The Celtic Manor Resort on completing the final piece of the infrastructure required on-site to host such a high-profile event. I can’t wait for the 38th Ryder Cup matches to get underway, as it will be a superb showcase for Wales.”

As well as the Ryder Cup practice ground, the bridge also links to a huge TV compound, which will house the world’s sports broadcasters on the Caerleon side of the river. On the golf course side, a vast tented village of spectator attractions will occupy the existing Twenty Ten practice ground between the river and the first tee.

Richard Hills, Europe’s Ryder Cup Director, said: “The installation of the bridge is a vital component of The 2010 Ryder Cup, facilitating ease of access to both sides of the River Usk. The Celtic Manor Resort as host venue has continually demonstrated superb commitment and we congratulate them for making this happen in such good time.”

GLENMUIR UNVEILS PERFORMANCE SWEATERS FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2010

Equipment & apparel No Responses »

Feb 092010

Glenmuir, one of Europe’s leading golf apparel brands, has launched two new performance sweaters for the first time in 2010 as it builds on the success of its acclaimed Men’s Performance and Trend Collection.

Made from a supersoft cotton, the ‘Littlestone’ and ‘Tandridge’ sweaters make ideal companions to the Lanark, Scotland-based company’s renowned high performance golf shirts, which use the very latest technology to offer exceptional levels of comfort and moisture-wicking.

The long-sleeved ‘Littlestone’ is manufactured from lightweight 2/32s cotton with a lockdown zip neck, contrast colour panels on the body and sleeves and Glenmuir 1891 embroidery on the sleeve.

Available in sizes S-XXL with an RRP of £53.50, the new sweater comes in six great colour combinations: Stone/Blue, Blue/Stone, White/Black, Lilac/White, Paradise/White and White/Paradise.

For fashion-conscious golfers who want a complete range of matching performance shirt, sweater and slipover – giving them total flexibility and co-ordination – the v-neck ‘Tandridge’ slipover, comes in three colourways – Blue/Stone, Lilac/White and Paradise/White. It is also available in sizes S-XXL, with an RRP of £45.25.

Glenmuir Marketing Director, Brian Mair, says: “Glenmuir has a long-standing reputation in golf for providing exceptional knitwear and we have moved that expertise into the performance knitwear category for the first time with the ‘Littlestone’ and ‘Tandridge’.

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“One of the key ways to benefit from performance fabrics is through layering and the lightweight cotton used in these garments is the perfect complement to the Thermocool™, Coolmax®, Hi Cool® and Coolflex fabric technologies used in our performance shirts.”

With 23 products spanning polo shirts, sweaters, fleeces, wind shirts and waterproofs, Glenmuir’s Spring/Summer 2010 Men’s Performance & Trend Collection offers something for every golfer, in every weather situation.

‘Smart fabrics’ are at the heart of the new collection, where the thermo-buffering principle of the super-advanced ThermoCool™ system sits alongside CoolFlex HiCool® and CoolMax® technologies to give golfers the ultimate in performance golfwear.

Glenmuir has introduced three carefully-selected new contemporary colour palettes for the season – ‘Blue Stone’ (three classic shades of blue combining with stone and white); ‘Lilac Haze’ (vibrant raspberry and lilac infused with black, white and stone); and ‘Paradise Mist’ (three cool greys mixing with paradise blue and white) – which feature across its entire range.

Danang Golf Club nears completion on Vietnam’s central coast

Architecture & design, Courses & clubs No Responses »

Jan 312010

Greg Norman-designed Dunes Course set to open in April.

Howie Roberts takes his stance on the 16th tee, peaks over his left shoulder at the putting surface some 150 yards away, then unleashes a golf swing authentic enough to belie the fact he doesn’t actually hold a club in his hands.

Roberts takes a step back and with hands on his hips gazes adoringly at the green — a beguiling target framed by blown-out bunkers and backdropped by an azure East Sea. The flag flaps in the distance, contrasting with the fixed Cham Islands off Vietnam’s central coast.

“This will be different from anything anyone’s ever seen in Southeast Asia, I can assure you that,” he says.

It already is. While not quite finished, The Dunes Course at Danang Golf Club already possesses the characteristics that will allow it immediate entree into conversations about the best links layouts in the world. Firm and fast fairways that bleed gently into wild seaside vegetation, rugged waste areas, swales, hollows, even briny ocean air comprise its DNA.

“Links golf hasn’t traditionally exerted the same allure among Asian players as it has with golfers in other regions,” Roberts observes. “But that’s about to change, and I think Danang Golf Club will be a pivotal element in that transformation.”

The welcome mat gets rolled out in April, when Roberts, the club’s general manager, officially cuts the ribbon on this Greg Norman design.

And what a design it’s shaping up to be. In addition to the breathtaking 16th, the minimalist layout features 17 more holes that could just as easily be lifted and placed in Bandon, Oregon, or Doonbeg, County Clare, the homes of a few of golf’s most compelling modern links.

“Like Bandon Dunes or Doonbeg (another Norman design), Danang GC is going to look as if it’s been here for centuries,” said Roberts, who’s worked at internationally acclaimed golf venues such as Gary Player’s Cascades Course at Soma Bay, in Egypt. “That’s the type of course we were after, and I think we nailed it.”

Credit Norman, whose architectural chops are the result of his years of success as a world-class playing professional. He won two British Open titles, finished in the top 10 of Major tournaments 30 times and held down the No. 1 ranking for an astounding 331 weeks.

In 1987, The Great White Shark, as he came to be known, took his profound knowledge of the game and made the official jump into the design industry. He formed Greg Norman Golf Course Design (GNGCD) and the rest is history.

Over the past 22 years, GNGCD has created more than 70 courses on six continents and established a reputation for imaginative designs that acknowledge golf’s traditional origins and the landscapes on which it has been played.

Danang Golf Club is the latest beneficiary of that approach. Set amid 280 hectares of tropical linksland, the Dunes Course was crafted in the spirit of the world’s most recognizable links including the Moonah Course at The National in Australia and the aforementioned Doonbeg in Ireland — GNGCD designs that rake in awards for their creativity, quality and environmental harmony.

“Terms such as ‘links-style,’ ‘linksish,’ and ‘links-like’ are indiscriminately applied to coastal courses these days, but this is the real deal,” said Harley Kruse, senior architect of GNGCD. “It’s wild and exotic and lends itself to the development of the kind of golf course the likes of Old Tom Morris was playing on in Scotland almost 200 years ago. For someone in the golf business, the chance to work with terrain like this is like winning the lottery. And that’s how lucky we feel.”

With the addition of Danang Golf Club, the central coast solidifies itself as a bona fide golf destination. The Dunes Course gives the region two tracks, including the Colin Montgomerie-designed Montgomerie Links next door that opened in August of last year. A third layout, by three-time Masters champion Nick Faldo, will soon break ground next to a bay less than an hour north of Danang.

Some of the world’s most recognizable hotel management brands, such as Hyatt, Raffles and GHM, are either digging in or already there.

“The area has long had the fundamental ingredients for a world-class destination,” noted Roberts, “with golden-sand beaches and nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Great golf is a perfect fit and it’s exciting to see the pace of development blossom to match the region’s inherent potential.”

When complete, Danang Golf Club will also feature a 3,800-square-metre clubhouse by Sydney-based architecture firm HASSELL, whose chairman was awarded the Gold Medal by the Australian Institute of Architects last year; a practice facility with swing studios and a custom club-fitting lab — both firsts for Vietnam; and 190 Ocean Villas, luxury residences ranging from two to five bedrooms.

Blueprints call for a second championship-standard course and an international-brand, 5-star hotel, as well. VinaCapital Group, Vietnam’s leading asset management, investment banking and real estate consulting firm, owns the property.

EXXONMOBIL SCORES TWO-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH COMMERCIALBANK QATAR MASTERS

Championship & event, Tour & pro golf No Responses »

Jan 192010

ExxonMobil Qatar has underlined its ongoing commitment to the Commercialbank Qatar Masters, presented by Dolphin Energy, by signing a two-year sponsorship agreement with the Doha-staged European Tour event.  The deal is the first multi-year agreement signed between ExxonMobil and the US$2.5 million golf tournament but follows a number of single year agreements since the tournament was first staged in 1998. This year’s event will be hosted by the Qatar Golf Association (QGA), the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) and Commercialbank Qatar at Doha Golf Club from January 28-31.  ExxonMobil Qatar President and General Manager Alex Dodds had the following comments: “ExxonMobil has been firmly behind the event since it began twelve years ago and we are delighted to have seen it grow to become one of the premier overseas tournaments on the European Tour schedule.  “At ExxonMobil, we have consistently shown our commitment to the State of Qatar not only through our title sponsorship of the Qatar Open through the Qatar Tennis Federation, but also our long-time backing of the Commercialbank Qatar Masters.   “Thanks to the QGA, QOC and Commercialbank, this is a golf tournament that ranks alongside the very best in the sport and again confirms the nation as a home of world-class sporting properties – a key ingredient in the Qatar National Vision 2030.”  The agreement, which will make ExxonMobil the official sponsor of all scoring services, was signed by Alex Dodds and Commercialbank Group CEO Andrew Stevens in the presence of QGA President Hassan Al Nuami, General Manager, Dolphin Energy Qatar Adel Ahmed Albuainain and Tournament Manager Chris Myers during a signing ceremony at the Commercialbank Pavilion at Doha Golf Club.  “The Qatar Golf Association and ExxonMobil have an excellent relationship stretching back to the first professional tournament staged here back in 1998,” said Al Nuami, after thanking ExxonMobil for their support.   Al-Nuami added: “This tournament benefits from working hand-in-hand with sponsors who are not only supporters of sport but also of the State of Qatar. ExxonMobil is one of those sponsors who work hand-in-hand with us to maintain the event’s status as one of the most popular and professional events on the players’ calendar and we thank them once again for showing their commitment to our future.”  The 2010 Commercialbank Qatar Masters, presented by Dolphin Energy, has attracted a formidable 126-player field including world top 20 stars Lee Westwood, Henrik Stenson, Paul Casey, Kenny Perry and Sergio Garcia as well as former Major winners Retief Goosen, Shaun Micheel and Todd Hamilton.  “We have a powerful line-up of players and an equally-strong collection of sponsors,” added Andrew Stevens, “Our thanks go to ExxonMobil for their support in what we have achieved and their belief in the event’s future.”

Heritage Cross Apparel To Exhibit At PGA Show

Equipment & apparel, Fair, show & expo No Responses »

Jan 132010

Heritage Cross will be attending their 8th PGA Merchandising Show this month in Orlando, FL., January 28-30th. Located in booth # 4373.

“The PGA Show in Orlando is our opportunity to showcase why so many accounts have selected Heritage Cross Apparel as their preferred vendor. During these unprecedented economic times our value-driven collections provide essential margin opportunities without sacrificing quality, style and performance. Retailers understand that to remain successful during these economic conditions they must be positioned with an apparel partner that will provide a business strategy which allows them to strengthen their bottom-line.” Says Keith Lux, CEO and Chairman of Heritage Cross Apparel.

Heritage Cross Apparel will showcase its NEW 2010 men’s and ladies lifestyle collections featuring their exclusive Cross Cool-Cross Dry moisture management technology that is designed for comfort, style and enhanced performance. “We’re committed to manufacturing exceptional product assortments at unprecedented value, making Heritage Cross the ideal partner for 2010 with increased margin opportunities for your retail operations, tournaments and staff uniforms. Our sales and merchandising staff look forward to assisting you at our booth. ” adds Lux.

At Heritage Cross Apparel our philosophy began and continues to be, to bring you the finest quality men’s and ladies golf and resort apparel at the most affordable prices in the business. Experience the Heritage Cross Apparel commitment.

ICY SWEDE STENSON TO FIRE UP ABU DHABI CHALLENGE

Championship & event, Tour & pro golf No Responses »

Jan 122010

Sweden’s highest ranked golfer, United Arab Emirates’ resident and current world number eight, Henrik Stenson, is the latest superstar to throw his hat in the ring for January’s 5th annual Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, as he looks to become the first European Tour player to win all three Middle East-based, ‘Gulf Swing’ tournaments.

A veteran of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, running 21-24th January at Abu Dhabi Golf Club’s Par-72 National Course, Stenson – who has wins at the Dubai Desert Classic and the Qatar Masters – knows an elusive UAE capital victory would be an important catalyst to getting his 2010 season underway.

And Stenson is hoping ‘home’ advantage will give him the edge over an increasingly powerful field including European number one and winner of the 2009 Race to Dubai, Lee Westwood; two-time Abu Dhabi champion and world number seven, Paul Casey and Northern Irish young-gun and world number nine, Rory McIlory.

“I am familiar with The National Course; it is a great place to play and I enjoy the wide fairways, which suit my game. I have put in some good Abu Dhabi performances over the years and aim to keep doing so. It would be great to be the first golfer to complete the Middle East treble, although I am just focusing on getting out there, doing my best and hopefully I’ll come away with a great result,” said Stenson, who had nine top 10 finishes in 2009.

Over the last couple of seasons, Stenson has really come to the fore of international golf with a host of impressive performances, including notching up seven European Tour victories throughout his professional career. The big hitting and affable Swede has risen through the ranks to become his country’s top professional, a position he has held for almost a decade.

The 33-year-old is only one of a handful of players to have competed in every edition of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship since its inception in 2006, and has narrowly missed out on lifting the Falcon trophy twice, after finishing second in both 2006 and 2008, to American Chris DiMarco and Germany’s wunderkind, Martin Kaymer, respectively.

And having missed the cut in 2009, Stenson is keen to give the 126-man Abu Dhabi field – which also includes Spanish sensation and world number 11, Sergio Garcia; Australian world number 14, Geoff Ogilvy; and Colombian star and world number 23, Camilo Villegas – a run for its money in January.

“It was hard going in Abu Dhabi last January, and I think I was a little bit jaded coming into the new season. However, I’ve been working hard during this winter break and want to come out firing on all cylinders. I’m going to get one or two events under my belt before coming to Abu Dhabi so I should be in good shape to make a strong challenge,” added Stenson, who turned professional in 1998.

With seven of the world’s top 25 golfers already signed up for the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship 2010, and with more expected in the coming weeks, tournament organiser Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), is confident its upcoming event will be the most hotly contested to date.

“Five years on, the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship has matured to become a major addition to the European Tour calendar and continues to attract some of the sport’s biggest names. Everything about this event is geared to create an unrivalled golfing experience, from the players and intimate viewing opportunities to the off-course entertainment and interactive activities, all of which allow fans to connect with a truly world-class golfing destination in the making,” said Faisal Al Sheikh, Head – Major Event’s Division, ADTA.

All four days of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship 2010 will be covered live on high definition TV, reaching a cumulative global audience of over 400 million.

The 2010 Championship formally begins on Wednesday, January 20th with the Al-Masaood Pro-Am and Awards Gala when sponsors and their guests will play and socialise with some of the world’s best professionals.

Paul Casey visits Yas Links Golf Course

Architecture & design, Courses & clubs No Responses »

Jan 112010

Paul Casey.

Golf icon Paul Casey, the two time winner of Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, today visited Yas Links Abu Dhabi, the first links course in the Middle East, being built by Aldar Properties on Yas Island, Aldar’s flagship entertainment destination. Speaking to reporters during a tour of the course and related facilities, Casey, who is defending his title as champion of Abu Dhabi Golf Champion, said: “The Yas Links Course will be unlike anything ever seen in the region and Kyle is really creating something special. Yas Links will be a destination in its own right and being part of an incredible destination as Yas Island will lend added attraction to both. I look forward to being part of the future Yas Links which will elevate Abu Dhabi into an international golfing destination. ”

Chris White, Aldar Golf General Manager, commented: “It is great to welcome Paul Casey back to Abu Dhabi, the very ground where he repeatedly displayed some of the best golf ever played. We are proud to have been with him on his phenomenal journey to success and look forward in the future to have him and the world’s top golfers exhibit their best talents on this world-class course. The Yas Links Golf facility will feature Kyle Phillips’ 7450 yard par 72 course with all eighteen holes benefiting from coastal views. The stunning Andalucía style clubhouse covers an area of 5,750 sqm and features spectacular coastal views and every golfing and leisure amenity that today’s discerning golfer would expect from a world-class development. The dedicated Golf Academy features a private members practice ground, a guest practice ground, a nine hole par 3 golf course, dedicated short game practice area, six shaded hitting bays with air ventilation as well as two indoor swing studios. All practice areas are fully floodlit.

Yas Links, Abu Dhabi, Appoints a Marketing Representation in Europe

Courses & clubs No Responses »

Dec 282009

Yas Links

Mr. Christopher White, General Manager Yas Links Golf Club has recently appointed MarCom International, as European Representation for Tour Operators and Medias.
With the objective to attract European golfers, the golf management has already confirmed some strategic objectives starting from the golf course opening scheduled for March 2010.
Yas Links Golf Club staff members are getting ready to welcome international players and offer outstanding golf services with creative approach and attention to details.
The role of MarCom International is to assist the club and ensure good and smoothly representation in addition to marketing strategies…
Special rate structure, international tournaments and packages will be offered during the year to the Travel Trade Industry.
Chris White: “Yas Links, Abu Dhabi is the first true links golf course in the middle-east and we want as many visitors to come and experience this unique facility.
Appointing Marcom International will help us achieve that goal, with their experience in the Middle East and Europe this will be an ideal partnership and something we, as a club, are very excited about”.
Yas Links will open March 2010.

Retief Goosen heading back to Commercialbank Qatar Masters

Uncategorized No Responses »

Dec 282009

Retief Goosen is heading back to the Commercialbank Qatar Masters.

Although Goosen was unable to defend his Qatar title in 2008 because of an eye complaint that forced him to withdraw on the eve of the tournament, he did make a return to Doha Golf Club in January 2009 finishing in a tie for 21st place.

“This year was a better year than 2008,” said Goosen. “I think that had I putted better then I may have had more wins, but I was pleased with my tee to green. I’m certainly looking forward to next year where my first tournament is in Hawaii.”

Like many of his fellow Major winners, Goosen is also actively involved in golf course design in several countries.

“My aim is to design Championship courses, not necessarily long courses, but a course that makes you think, and play from different angles, that both professionals and amateurs of differing abilities can enjoy,” he added. “Designing golf courses is a lot of fun – seeing them develop and grow from nothing is very satisfying. I’d like to leave some sort of mark behind. It would be good to think that people knew straight away this was a Retief Goosen course.”

Goosen is the latest golfing giant to commit to the Commercialbank Qatar Masters, presented by Dolphin Energy – scheduled to take place from January 28-31 – joining Lee Westwood, Sergio Garcia, Kenny Perry and Camilo Villegas in the line-up.

“The line up for the 2010 event is getting stronger by the day,” said Commercialbank Group CEO Andrew Stevens. “Retief’s record is second to none – he’s a winner of two Majors and a former champion. We are all honoured he has chosen to make his only Middle East appearance of 2010 here in Qatar.”

PGA Catalunya Resort scores another Top 10 in new online European course rankings

Courses & clubs No Responses »

Dec 252009

PGA Golf de Catalunya #13 Green

Top 100 Golf Courses website ranks the Spanish Open venue as number two in Spain
PGA Catalunya Resort, venue of the 2009 Spanish Open and European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage, has been ranked the number six golf course in Continental Europe, in a revised listing published today.

Top 100 Courses, the online course rankings group, has updated its European rankings and elevated the resort’s Stadium Course into the Top 10, making it the second highest ranked course in Spain. (www.top100golfcourses.co.uk)

Earlier this year, the Stadium Course, part of the acclaimed golfing estate near Barcelona and the Costa Brava, with two18-hole courses designed by Neil Coles and Angel Gallardo, was ranked in Golf World magazine’s Top 10 European Courses and was voted the number three golf course in Europe by Golf Monthly magazine.

Billy O’Sullivan, CEO of PGA Catalunya Resort, said: “PGA Catalunya Resort continues to go from strength to strength, with the significant investment into our courses and clubhouse recognised by the European Tour, leading golf magazines and visiting golfers from across the Continent.

“We see PGA Catalunya Resort as the ultimate golfing destination, and being just a five-minute drive from Girona-Costa Brava Airport, a major hub for Ryanair and other European airlines, the majority of golfers in Europe are now within a two-hour flight range and can easily leave home, arrive for lunch in the clubhouse and tee it up for 18 holes on one of the best golf courses in Europe in the afternoon.”

Golfers wishing to visit PGA Catalunya Resort in January and February 2010 are being offered a special new year deal for both the Tour and Stadium Courses.

Piranha and Egan Team Up For World Record Attempt

Championship & event No Responses »

Dec 192009

Piranha Golf and Egan Golf, as event partners, are pleased to announce their attempt to break a Guinness World Record during the 2010 PGA Merchandise Show held in Orlando, Florida from January 27th – 30th.

With approval and support from Reed Exhibitions, the event organizer for the Show, Egan Golf and Piranha Golf’s aim is to break the current world record for the most golf balls hit in a continuous 12 hour period during the Outdoor Demo Day which will be held on January 27th at The Orange County Golf Course. The objective, underpinned by the World Record Attempt, is to generate donations for the Folds of Honor Foundation. All donation monies raised will flow directly to the Folds of Honor Foundation and both Egan Golf and Piranha Golf are donating equipment, costs, time and services free of charge.

The event will challenge product and human endurance in a golfing context and help raise awareness of the challenges for many surviving American families who have lost, or had incapacitated, loved ones serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. As non-American organizations, Egan Golf (Ireland) and Piranha Golf (Australia and England) see this as an opportunity to meaningfully demonstrate their commitment as allies and to support the Folds of Honor Foundation which provides educational opportunities to children who may not otherwise have access to them. As business organizations, Egan Golf and Piranha Golf strongly believe in the “pay it forward” theory.

With a motivated team ready for the challenge, and several months of planning already invested in the event, they are absolutely confident that they can break the existing world record of 7,350 balls.

Aiding the effort will be Egan Golf’s innovative “Golf Center” training system, which includes a touch activated ball delivery system that will present a new golf ball on the tee every 1.5 seconds (its use has been sanctioned by Guinness World Record’s administrative authority) and Piranha Golf’s premium golf clubs that have been specifically hand-crafted for the event with a view to demonstrating their durability, playability and lower shock and vibration qualities (the clubs conform to standard equipment guidelines).

“Piranha Golf and Egan Golf, who both embarked on their U.S. business activities during 2009, are excited to be undertaking their first charity event together,” said Steve Collins, President of Piranha Golf USA. “Being a combination of mad Aussies, Irishmen and an Englishman has made it a lot of fun and we hope to raise significant donations for the Folds of Honor Foundation during our Guinness World Record attempt at the Show. Our respective countries are the strongest of U.S. allies and we are proud to do something that will meaningfully assist families who have had a loved one killed or incapacitated in Iraq or Afghanistan”.

“Egan Golf is very excited to partner with Piranha Golf in this Guinness World Record Attempt,” said Jonathan Mangan, Managing Director of Egan Golf. “Our Company has been built on innovation and this event is a natural extension of that philosophy. We wanted to emphatically announce our intentions to support American charity and are delighted to support the wonderful Folds of Honor Foundation”.

A World Record Attempt at the world’s biggest golf event is unique, innovative and exciting and they believe it will inspire and engage the golfing community across America. It will also provide an ideal platform for Event Sponsors to advertise their products and gain media exposure to both the golf trade and consumers worldwide. The goal is to generate significant donations for the Folds of Honor Foundation.
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Robert Trent Jones II looks ahead to fruitful year in 2010

Architecture & design No Responses »

Dec 172009

robert_trent_jones_jr For many in the golf business, in the wake of one of the most challenging years on record, the new year can’t come soon enough. Despite the difficult state of the industry, the staff at Robert Trent Jones II (RTJ II) golf course architects recognize some stars in the darkness of 2009 and are looking ahead to new highlights in 2010.

Both Master Architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and Chief Design Officer Bruce Charlton point to a number of 2009 accomplishments, including additions to the firm’s legacy of awards. Golf World rated eight RTJ II courses in the Top 100 in Europe, and two recent courses in Denmark were ranked No. 1 (Lubker Golf Resort) and No. 3 (Skjoldenæsholm Golf Center) by Danish Golf Magazine.

In the U.S., highlights included Chambers Bay (University Place, Washington), which will host the U.S. Amateur in 2010, being ranked by GOLF Magazine among the Top 100 courses in the U.S., the Top 100 Courses Worldwide, and the Top 50 Courses of the last 50 years. Golfweek also chose a number of RTJ II courses among its Top Residential Courses (The Bridges, Rancho Santa Fe, California; and Miramont, Bryan, Texas), Top Municipal Courses (ThunderHawk, Beach Park, Illinois), and Top Resort Courses (Osprey Meadows, Donnelly, Idaho). The firm also was proud to debut its Sequoyah National Golf Club in Cherokee, North Carolina, designed in collaboration with PGA Tour player Notah Begay. The course was recently cited by GOLF Magazine as a Top New Course You Can Play. Other awards included Golf Digest ranking RTJ II’s Rainmakers Golf Club among the Best New Private Courses in 2009. In addition to debuting great new courses, RTJ II completed fresh course renovations in Indonesia, Australia, and Hawaii.

Also, in keeping with the firm’s Green Proclamation, which attracted industry and media attention worldwide in 2009, the firm currently boasts 22 Audubon International Sanctuary Courses.

In a year that saw Charlton successfully complete his term as president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, Jones, Jr., was recognized for his contributions to the game by Golf Inc., which awarded him its lifetime achievement award. Jones also was recognized by GOLF Magazine as an Innovator, and “Game Changer” in 2009.

“For many, 2009 was tough from a business perspective, but we also learned great lessons,” Charlton said. “In the downturn we found opportunity and modified our business practices to offer different services (such as an increase in renovation work) and participate in projects more collaboratively. We have noticed a sense of urgency in clients’ voices recently—they want to move ahead, plan, prepare drawings and approvals, and ramp up again. I’m cautiously optimistic about next year.”

In 2010, RTJ II expects to open several highly anticipated courses, including Hickory Stick (Lewiston, New York), The Patriot (Owasso, Oklahoma), Bro Hof Slott’s Castle Course (near Stockholm, Sweden), The Scandinavian Golf Club (near Copenhagen, Denmark), Bahia Principe Golf Resort (Riviera Maya, Mexico), and Palmeres Golf Club (Lagos, Portugal). The firm will also complete significant renovations to Pondok Indah in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Princeville Makai in Kauai, Hawaii. Work will continue on new projects in Greece, Mexico, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Egypt, Scandinavia and Vanuatu, as will renovations proceed in Puerto Rico, Canada and England.

RTJ II will also begin work on new projects in China and Russia, which, according to Charlton, “were dark in terms of development not very long ago, but have emerged into significant lands of opportunity.”

In addition, Robert Trent Jones, Jr. expects the announcement that golf will reappear in the Olympic Games in 2016 to have a significant impact by bringing new players to the game and increasing the need for training grounds. Demand will rise for full-length courses and also modern practice venues, such as the innovative six-hole facility RTJ II recently designed at Stanford University, Jones suggests.

Annika Sorenstam to attend the KPMG Golf Business Forum

Fair, show & expo, Tour & pro golf No Responses »

Dec 162009

Annika will attend the 2010 Golf Business Forum, May 12-14 at The Gloria Hotels & Resort, Belek, Turkey, to receive the award in person.

Annika Sorenstam, one of the greatest professional golfers of all time and now an emerging entrepreneur, has been named the recipient of the Golf Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Annika will attend the 2010 Golf Business Forum, May 12-14 at The Gloria Hotels & Resort, Belek, Turkey, to receive the award in person.

During her 15 year professional career, Annika became the most dominant women’s golfer in history and transcended her sport to become a prominent mainstream athlete and celebrity. She has rewritten the LPGA and Ladies European Tour record books, won countless awards and events and brought unprecedented attention to women’s golf. With 89 world-wide victories including 72 LPGA wins and 10 Major Championships, her career has changed the way women’s golf is played, watched and covered. When she stopped playing after the 2008 season, she had earned over $22 Million on the LPGA Tour, which is $8 Million more than the next closest competitor.

Annika reenergized women’s golf and became one of the sports’ most popular players, male or female. She is the only female golfer to shoot a 59 in competition and holds various all-time scoring records including the lowest season scoring average: 68.69 in 2004. Some of Annika’s other prestigious awards and accomplishments include being the first European born player to win both the LPGA’s Rolex Player of the Year, which she has done a record eight times, and the Vare Trophy for lowest scoring average, which she has done a record six times. She was also the first woman to be named World Player of the Year by Golf World. She was honored as the Athlete of the Year in Sweden in 1995, and was named Golf Writers Association of America Female Player of the Year in 1995, 1997, 2000-05. She has been honored by the March of Dimes with the Sports Woman of the Year Award, and in 2004, she won the World Sportswoman of the Year Award at the Laureus World Sports Awards.

Annika stepped away from professional golf in 2009 to pursue the ANNIKA brand of businesses. These include the ANNIKA Academy, ANNIKA Financial Group, numerous golf course design projects around the world, the ANNIKA Collection of apparel with Cutter & Buck, an ANNIKA wine label with Wente Vineyards, and a signature fragrance. Annika has authored two books, the second being “Golf Annika’s Way” in October 2004. In 2008, Annika joined Arnold Palmer as the only two Ambassadors of the United States Golf Association, and in 2009, along with Jack Nicklaus, she was named a Global Ambassador by the International Golf Federation which successfully got golf into the 2016 Olympic Games.

Annika feels very strongly about giving back, and in 2007, the ANNIKA Foundation was created to teach children the importance of living a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and nutrition, and offers aspiring junior golfers opportunities to pursue their dreams. In 2008, along with Eli Manning, Annika was named the “Most Caring Athlete” by USA Weekend Magazine.

At the 2010 Golf Business Forum, Annika will be recognized for her commitment to the game of golf combined with her diverse entrepreneurial spirit and will receive the first ever KPMG Golf Entrepreneur of the Year award in front of an expected audience of more than 300 international industry professionals in Belek, Turkey.

Golf Channel selects aboutGolf’s PGA TOUR simulator for its new studio

Equipment & apparel No Responses »

Dec 152009

AboutGolf has installed a highly-customized PGA TOUR Simulator in the new studio set for GOLF CHANNEL, which will be launched in January 2010, as will high-definition production capabilities for all its studio programming. aboutGolf has been selected as the exclusive on-air simulator provider for GOLF CHANNEL.

<!–sell price=”2″ recurring=”1M”–>

“Our process for securing simulator technology was based solely on finding the best technology to meet our needs,” says Dan Overleese, GOLF CHANNEL vice president of operations. “Our research verified that the PGA TOUR Simulator was the only product that had the definitive accuracy in measured launch data and modeled ball flight that our needs demanded.”
The PGA TOUR Simulator will be utilized by GOLF CHANNEL analysts for real-to-life demonstrations – like shot re-creation – and for shows like The Golf Fix, the popular, high-energy instructional show hosted by Michael Breed.
“The GOLF CHANNEL strives to deliver relevant news, analysis and instruction, so reliable and definitive data is critical,” said Chuck Faust, president of aboutGolf. “Not only does the PGA TOUR Simulator apply stereoscopic, high-speed photography technology, which is the ultimate platform for accurate measurement, but it is used with proprietary methodology that allows it to achieve an even higher level of accuracy and produce a realistic golf experience.”
3Trak, aboutGolf’s proprietary technology that powers the PGA TOUR Simulator, directly measures both the ball and the club, including the spin and spin axis of the shot, as well as precise velocity and trajectory, producing accurate ball flight. aboutGolf will also make high-definition, 3-D renderings of the 18th hole at many of the 2010 PGA TOUR scheduled courses available on GOLF CHANNEL’s PGA TOUR Simulator.
The simulator installation is just the beginning of what both organizations believe will be a strong partnership. Advanced development efforts and other initiatives to create the most compelling viewing experience for GOLF CHANNEL viewers are expected in the future.

About aboutGolf
aboutGolf is a 20-year-old Maumee, Ohio-based company that has been dedicated to golf for its entire history. aboutGolf is the world leader in indoor golf simulator technology, producing PGA TOUR Simulators, 3Trak launch monitors and Henry-Griffitts Custom Fitting. Historically, aboutGolf also produced Microsoft Golf, Greg Norman Ultimate Challenge Golf and World Tours, which is the world’s most-widely-distributed golf simulation. aboutGolf® is a registered trademark of aboutGolf Limited, Maumee, Ohio.

About GOLF CHANNEL
GOLF CHANNEL is a multimedia, golf entertainment and services company based in Orlando, Fla. The GOLF CHANNEL cable network, co-founded by Arnold Palmer and a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA, CMCSK), is available in more than 120 million homes worldwide through cable, satellite and wireless companies. Exclusive partnerships with the world’s top tours allow GOLF CHANNEL to feature more live golf coverage than all other networks combined, added to a programming schedule distinguished by golf’s best news, instruction and original programming. GOLF CHANNEL’s digital platform of businesses is led by GolfChannel.com, the number-one golf destination on the Internet, delivering unmatched coverage of the world of golf, as well as services that help the recreational player with how to play, what to play and where to play golf.

TPL appointed to modernise Emirates Golf Club’s flagship Majlis Course

Architecture & design, Foundation & contracts No Responses »

Dec 122009

Thomson Perrett & Lobb, the golf course architecture practice founded by five-times Open champion Peter Thomson, has been appointed by Emirates Golf Club to modernise its flagship Majlis Course, home of the Dubai Desert Classic.

TPL will carry out an audit of the course’s bunkering as part of a wider modernisation programme, overseeing the repositioning and reconstruction of bunkers to upgrade the course for professional events, including the Dubai Desert Classic and Dubai Ladies Masters, and day-to-day club and visitor play.

The 7,301-yard, par-72 layout, which opened in 1988 and was the first grass golf course in the Middle East, was ranked among the Top 100 golf course outside America by Golf Digest magazine in May 2009.

Rod Bogg, Special Advisor to Dubai Golf, and who oversaw construction of Emirates Golf Club 22 years ago, said: “We selected TPL to oversee the modernisation of the Majlis Course because of its experience in designing prestige golf courses in the Middle East and its expertise in bunkering.

“Our bunkers are out of date and, due to modern equipment, out of play. Some of the players are hitting the ball 60 or 70 yards past the fairway bunkers during the Dubai Desert Classic. While that is only one week of the year, we need to ensure that the course remains the enjoyable challenge that it is for professionals and amateurs all year round.”

Mr Bogg added: “We are not redesigning the course and not adding additional bunkers to the course, but we are looking at relocating, reshaping and reconstructing the bunkers we do have to bring the course up to the highest modern standards, as well as making some improvements to the aesthetics of the course.” The new look course will be in play for the Dubai Desert Classic in 2011.

TPL is already busy in the region, with its multi-course design for Dubai Golf City under construction, as well as a golf course for the landmark New Giza development in Egypt.

TPL have been appointed by Emirates Golf Club to modernise the bunkers on its flagship Majlis Course. (Picture courtesy of Emirates Golf Club)

Tim Lobb, TPL Principal, said: “As with all of the bunker work we do at important, established courses, we are taking a subtle approach to Emirates Golf Club, treading softly and respecting the much loved design that is already in play.

“What we are doing is reviewing the bunker positioning to ensure that professionals and amateurs alike will require a clear golfing strategy to plot their way around the course. The course needs to stand up to the challenge of the world’s best players, while also remaining an enjoyable challenge for the club’s members and visitors. This is an exciting project and we are delighted to be working with the team at Emirates Golf Club.”

Construction underway at TPL’s New Giza project, in view of the Pyramids

Architecture & design, Foundation & contracts No Responses »

Dec 112009

13:th green at New Giza, Egypt.

Construction at one of the Middle East’s most significant new golf and real estate communities – New Giza, Egypt – is underway.

Tim Lobb, principal of Thomson Perrett & Lobb, the international golf course architecture practice founded by five times Open Champion Peter Thomson, has
just returned from a site visit with Design Associate Andrew Goosen, and confirmed that staking has been completed and bulk construction on the golf
course, on hills with views to the ancient Pyramids, has begun in earnest.

“With so many golf developments having been put on hold over the past year, it is a credit to the developers and everyone involved with New Giza that
the project is moving forward,” said Lobb.

“The site for the golf course is part of one of the most dramatic landscapes we have worked on, with incredible hilltop views to the Pyramids and
50-metre high cliffs, which have been incorporated into the golf course design.”

Lobb added: “The news that there will be an MGM Grand Resort on site underlines New Giza’s status as a landmark development for Egypt. It is a
very exciting project to be involved with.”

The community will be part of the 1,500-acre New Giza development which will also include a second hotel, a state of the art Hospital with 540 beds, a
medical school, a university, two schools, a sporting club, two mixed use areas with restaurants, shopping malls and office spaces, plus 5,500 villas,
townhouses, and apartments in ten individual neighbourhoods, surrounded by greenery, parks and lakes.

The golf course, which forms a central part of the development, will ride the desert hills, offering spectacular views, and incorporate bold natural
features that will help create a unique golfing experience.

“We are fortunate to have such an outstanding piece of land to work with,” continued Tim Lobb. “We are not actually having to move huge amounts of
earth to create interest and excitement in this golf course, as the hills, ravines and cliffs are already there. What we are doing, through the design
and construction, is bringing the drama of the landscape to life for golf, and we have no doubt that New Giza will be a landmark project for the
region.”

The golf course at New Giza is scheduled to open in 2012, while the MGM Grand New Giza is expected to open in 2013.

Production Launch of The Garia Luxury Golf Car

Equipment & apparel No Responses »

Dec 102009

Garia-43 The series production of The Garia Luxury Golf Car has been launched at the Valmet Automotive factory in Finland.

Designed by Danish designer Anders Lynge, the Garia Golf Car is a complete reinvention of the traditional golf car. The design is innovative and unique and so is the concept of a high-end luxury and quality golf car.

The Porsche Boxster and Porsche Cayman are also built at Valmet Automotive, and the factory is also contracted by THINK and Fisker Automotive to manufacture environmentally friendly and innovative hybrid cars.

Download press photos at The Garia Press Photo Gallery

Launch of the series production of The Garia Golf Car at the Valmet Automotive factory in Finland

The series production of The Garia has been launched at the Valmet Automotive factory in Uusikaupunki, Finland. Valmet Automotive was contracted last January to be the engineering and manufacturing partner of Garia.

Mr. Jacob Brunsborg, President and owner of Garia A/S, finds the cooperation with Valmet Automotive to be a perfect match: “At Garia, we set out to create the world’s best golf car, unsurpassed in terms of design and quality, and the professional cooperation with Valmet Automotive is one of the reasons for our success”.

President of Valmet Automotive, Mr. Ilpo Korhonen, sees the cooperation with Garia A/S as an example of good Nordic collaboration: “The cooperation with Garia A/S is Nordic collaboration at its best and together we are smoothing the path for electric vehicles also in the everyday life”.

Garia suppliers include Comex, the Italian company who supplies gearboxes for Ducati racing motorcycles, and the SAPA Group, who develops and manufactures components to Aston Martin, Jaguar and Volvo.

The Garia was first presented in Las Vegas, PGA Expo in September 2009.

The Garia is available at Garia dealers in the US in January 2010 and in April 2010 in the rest of the world.

In 2010, The Garia will be available on the US market as a LSV (Low Speed Vehicle). The Garia LSV will be presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Prices start at 13,999 EURO and 17,499 USD (excl. delivery and VAT etc.).

For video presentations of The Garia and more information on Valmet Automotive, please visit:
www.garia.com
www.valmet-automotive.com

PING signs European Number 1 Westwood to multi-year agreement

Equipment & apparel, Uncategorized No Responses »

Dec 032009

From left to right – Andrew “Chubby” Chandler, Managing Director International Sports Management (ISM) , Lee Westwood & Chance Cozby, PING Director of Tournament Player Relations.

Lee Westwood, Europe’s No. 1 player and the 4th ranked golfer in the world, signed a multi-year contract to continue playing PING golf equipment, PING Chairman & CEO John Solheim announced today.

Westwood, who received his first set of PING clubs as a teenager in the mid-1980s, signed the new agreement on the eve of the Chevron World Challenge in Los Angeles where he’ll compete with 16 of the game’s top players.

“It’s been an amazing year all the way around,” said Westwood, whose recent victory at the Dubai World Championship clinched the year-long Race to Dubai title which crowned the European Tour’s leading money winner. “My two wins and the consistency I showed to become Europe’s No. 1 player again clearly make this my best year to date. To extend my agreement with PING at the same time brings me great comfort going forward as I look to continue my momentum into 2010.”

Westwood owes his six-shot victory in Dubai to a flawless final round in which he hit every fairway and every green in regulation en route to a course-record 64. In carding a four-round total of 23-under-par, he relied on 14 PING clubs, including a G10 driver, i15 3-wood, Rapture V2 5-wood, i10 irons, two Tour-W wedges and a Redwood Anser putter.

As part of the new agreement beginning January 1, 2010, Westwood’s headwear will prominently display the PING brand on the front and back and he’ll continue to carry a PING bag.

“I’ve been with PING since my junior golf days,” added Westwood, a six-time Ryder Cup participant. “They’ve been a leader in innovation for more than 50 years. The confidence I have in their technology makes my job a lot easier. I can focus on winning tournaments knowing my product will perform at the highest level. Whether I’m in Europe, America or another part of the world, they look after my equipment needs on a daily basis. Their service is unmatched.”

In addition to his two wins this year, Westwood posted 11 top 10 finishes, including ties for third in the Open Championship and PGA Championship. Since turning professional in 1993, the 36-year-old Englishman has won 31 times worldwide.

“We’ve been fortunate to be a part of every one of Lee’s wins as a professional,” said Solheim. “His loyalty to PING has helped elevate our brand worldwide as he’s won in every corner of the world. His performance this year has been exciting to watch and to see it culminate with his win in Dubai brings everyone at PING great joy knowing he’ll continue to represent us in the years ahead.”

SkyGolf Announces Partnership with World Golf Tour

Equipment & apparel No Responses »

Dec 022009

SkyGolf Announces Partnership with World Golf Tour – Bringing Innovative Course Management Technology to the Virtual Golf Course

The #1 Rangefinder in Golf Enhances Play on HD, 3-D Online Golf Destination and Offers WGT.com Players a Chance to Win the Popular SkyCaddie SG5

SkyGolf, maker of SkyCaddie®, the industry’s only GOLD recipient in the 2009 Golf Digest “Hot List” for GPS rangefinders, today announced the Company has entered into an exclusive partnership agreement with World Golf Tour (WGT), the Internet’s leading online golf experience.

This partnership aligns the synergies of WGT and SkyCaddie, two leading organizations who are committed to enhancing the experience for golfers both on the course and online. Future plans call for all WGT members to have access to the benefits of the popular SkyCaddie, arming its players with a virtual version of the most reliable course management device in the game.

“As one of the most highly trafficked golf sites in the world, World Golf Tour has gone to great lengths to simulate and teach the intricacies of course management for everyone to enjoy the game,” said YuChiang Cheng, CEO of the World Golf Tour. “Similar to SkyGolf’s TOUR-proven ground-mapping process, we painstakingly survey and record precise details and measurements of each course that we feature on World Golf Tour. SkyCaddie shares our vision and commitment to providing players with an authentic golfing experience via precision ground mapping and verification, and I can’t think of a more appropriate partner.”

To tee off the partnership, SkyGolf will serve as the host for two virtual golf tournaments on World Golf Tour, whereby members of WGT’s community can enter the SkyCaddie Challenge for a chance to win one of ten SkyCaddie SG5s, along with a one-year Eagle subscription (retail value of $450). To enter the first tournament, players must register and play a round in the SkyCaddie Challenge on www.wgt.com, by November 30, 2009.

The second tournament runs from December 1 to December 31, 2009, where players have another chance to win one of ten SkyCaddie SG5s, along with the one-year Eagle subscription. Rules and restrictions can be found at www.wgt.com/tournaments.

“SkyGolf and WGT share a commitment to provide the most reliable course management solutions for all golfers, and this partnership will further educate the online golfing community on the importance of course management to improve scores,” said Richard Edmonson, CEO of SkyGolf. “World Golf Tour has done an amazing job of bringing the sport alive online, as well as making it accessible and affordable to all. Once fully integrated, our technology will serve to enhance the experience for WGT players even more by providing a virtual version of the same information that has led to SkyCaddie being the #1 rangefinder among golfers playing the real game.”

WGT has changed the game among online golf offerings by combining GPS ground-mapping, high-definition quality images by air and ground to craft a virtual replica of seven world-class golf courses in an online 3-D format. This patented technology has created the most authentic online playing experience that has attracted a community of more than one million golfers.

Similarly, SkyCaddie has brought real course management tools to recreational golfers around the globe by providing reliable distances to each green and hazard on the golf course. Only SkyCaddie, after getting permission, walks the course with skilled golfers – using survey grade equipment – to record high-precision distance information, using the only method trusted by TOUR caddies to get information for their TOUR player. As a result, only SkyCaddie works hand-in-hand with each of its more than 24,000 golf course partners to ensure that golfers have the benefit of the most up-to-date and reliable course maps in the game today. The reality and precision of World Golf Tour courses starts and ends with a similar commitment to ground-based methods to assure accuracy and the authenticity of the courses.

About SkyGolf

SkyGolf, developer of SkyCaddie, the No. 1 rangefinder in golf, is committed to providing the same reliable information a professional caddie provides to PGA Tour professionals. This unmatched reliability is created by walking the course just like a Tour Caddie does for a professional golfer and recording critical target information using the only method trusted in professional golf. To date, only SkyGolf has walked more than 24,000 courses using SkyCaddie’s exclusive Tour Caddie Methodology, while thousands of golf courses are updated each year using the same reliable methodology. SkyGolf believes every amateur deserves the same complete information with the same reliability professional golfers receive and would never play without. The SkyCaddie is the Official Rangefinder of The PGA of America, Canadian PGA, PGA of Great Britain and Ireland, PGA of Germany, the Swedish PGA and a Technology Partner of the PGA Learning Center. Visit www.skygolf.com <http://www.skygolf.com/> for more information.

About World Golf Tour (WGT)

World Golf Tour (WGT) offers the most authentic online golf experience, making the game of golf accessible and affordable to all. With its patented 3-D no-install HD technology and free-to-play social networking format, WGT enables players to tour exclusive courses worldwide, learn the rules of the game, test equipment, and stay connected with friends. WGT’s partner sponsors such as PING, TaylorMade, SkyGolf, The Old Course at St Andrews Links, Pinehurst Resort, Wolf Creek, Bali Hai Golf Club, Edgewood Tahoe, Bethpage Black and Kiawah Island Resort, provide exclusive luxury benefits such as premium products, prizes and tournament purses.

SkyGolf, maker of SkyCaddie today announced the Company has entered into an exclusive partnership agreement with World Golf Tour (WGT), the Internet’s leading online golf experience.

About SkyGolf

About World Golf Tour (WGT)

Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Seve Ballesteros Back the National Golf Club Challenge

Championship & event No Responses »

Dec 012009

Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Seve Ballesteros join Gary Player in giving their support to the National Golf Club Challenge.

The Challenge, recently featured on the European Tour website, will bring hundreds of golf clubs, and thousands of golfers together on the same weekend as part of a nationwide charity golf event – with the aim of raising a million pounds for the superb Help for Heroes charity.

With golf clubs entering on a daily basis, the National Golf Club Challenge is on course to become the largest amateur charity golf event to take place in the UK. The Challenge will be held on the 24th and 25th July 2010 and is free to enter.

Messages of support for the Challenge have come from golf professionals, celebrities and now from four of the greatest golfers the game has ever seen: Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Arnold Palmer and Seve Ballesteros.

Nicklaus, globally recognized as the greatest golfer of the last century, fashioned a competitive career that spanned six decades. Named Sports Illustrated’s Individual Male Athlete of the 20th Century and awarded the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom (the highest honor bestowed on a civilian), Nicklaus’ legend has been built with 118 professional tournament victories worldwide, a record 18 professional major championship titles and two US Amateur Championships. He is the only player in history to have won each of the game’s majors at least three times (six US Masters, five PGA Championships, four US Opens, three British Open Championships), and is the only player to have completed the career “Grand Slam” on both the regular and senior tours.

Jack, now widely recognised as an acclaimed course designer, a global ambassador and spokesperson for the game, and a philanthropist who, among many causes, assists troops at home and abroad, said, “For all of us who love the game of golf and for those of us who have been given so much because of this great game, it’s time to pay it back. And in doing so, we pay it forward. The efforts we have seen in the United States and now in the UK through Help for Heroes and the National Golf Club Challenge are truly a meaningful and impactful way for the golf world to recognize, thank, honour and aid our wounded and weary troops. I have always held a special place in my heart for the golf courses and clubs of the UK for the ways they embrace our game and respect its rich history and traditions. So it is only fitting that the birthplace of golf gives these efforts new life.”

Palmer amassed 92 national and international championships throughout his professional career. Besides his magnificent performance record, his magnetic personality and unfailing sense of kindness and thoughtfulness to everybody with whom he comes in contact have endeared him to millions throughout the world.

After learning about the Challenge, Palmer said “What an excellent way for the golf world, through the Help for Heroes programme, to honour and aid the needy wounded troops of the UK with such a far-ranging and potentially-lucrative fund-raiser as the National Golf Club Challenge next summer at The Belfry.”

Player is renowned as much for his dedication to the principles of excellence as he is for his golfing accomplishments. As the only modern golfer to win The Open Championship in three different decades, Player has achieved the kind of worldwide acclaim reserved for only a handful of sporting greats.

“Every day many of us take for granted the sacrifices made by those who fight for our freedoms,” Gary commented. “We take for granted the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon playing a round of golf, while a soldier is off firing a round of ammunition. It is our obligation to support those wounded heroes who have dedicated their lives to protecting ours. The National Golf Club Challenge is a meaningful opportunity for the golfing community to demonstrate their own commitment and support for these brave individuals.”

Ballesteros continues to be an inspiration in his personal life as much as he was during his professional career. In the Ryder Cup his presence from 1979 and, particularly from 1983, was the element of inspiration that changed the course of this competition.

After hearing about the Challenge, Seve commented, “I feel the National Golf Club Challenge is a fantastic way to get the golfing world to support a very worthy cause. I have dedicated my life to golf and think it’s great to see my sport at the centre of a huge fundraising event for UK soldiers. Good luck and play well!”

Stacey Jeffries, the National Golf Club Challenge Event Director commented, “We are very humbled to have the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Seve Ballesteros join Gary Player in supporting the National Golf Club Challenge.”

“We are passionate about making the National Golf Club Challenge a resounding success for all involved,” Stacey continued. “To have four of the greatest golfers who have ever lived support our initiative to help our injured troops in their time of need, is a major boost to the Challenge and what it strives to achieve.”

The format for the National Golf Club Challenge is very simple; the Challenge will coincide with each participating golf club’s monthly stableford event, with each club turning the day into their own charity golf event, raising much needed funds for Help for Heroes.

The competing clubs will submit their aggregate scores from their best scoring 10 players. This will determine the top 6 golf clubs against standard scratch, who will then be invited to compete in the National Final.

The Grand Final, sponsored by YourGolfTravel.com, will be the conclusion of the 2010 National Golf Club Challenge. The two day event – hosted by The Belfry, one of the world’s leading golf resorts, and four times host to the Ryder Cup – will be a superb grand final, featuring a practice day, golf clinic, overnight accommodation, the final competition and a gala dinner, including guest speakers and the prize presentations.

Hank Haney Visits Mission Hills for Omega Mission Hills World Cup

Championship & event No Responses »

Nov 302009

Mission Hills Golf Club, the world’s largest golf facility and epicenter of China’s golf boom, welcomed world-renowned golf instructor Hank Haney as its VIP guest during the Omega Mission Hills World Cup.

Haney has been an instructor to more than 200 touring professionals over his 30-year career, including the world’s current number one player. He visited to gather information about the club that is the catalyst for China’s explosion onto the worldwide golf scene, and to become more familiar with the country’s rapidly maturing golf infrastructure and industry.

“I’m honored to have been at Mission Hills during the World Cup,” says Haney, ranked No. 2 in Golf Digest’s 2009 list of “America’s Top 50 Teachers.” “Learning about its central role in shaping China’s modern golf history was fantastic. Golf in China is primed to erupt; there was a palpable excitement rippling through the tournament galleries unlike any I’ve ever experienced.”

“Hank is one of golf’s most revered teachers and we were thrilled to have him as our guest,” says Tenniel Chu, Executive Director, Mission Hills Golf Club. “We share a common vision of Asia’s budding promise and are enthusiastic about the prospects of partnering to further our mutual goals.”

Haney’s four-day itinerary at Mission Hills included inspections of the club’s various teaching facilities as well as clinics for the public, juniors and the media.

“This was Hank’s first major public appearance in this part of the world,” Chu continues. “While he was here, we sought his valuable counsel on our instructional efforts, acquainted the public with one of the greatest golf teachers of our time, and explored the potential for future collaboration.”

Since 1994, Mission Hills has been bringing the world’s leading golf instructors and touring professionals to a new generation of Chinese players. The club is home to several academies and full-time junior golf development programs.

In addition to its instructional infrastructure, Mission Hills is the only club in the world to sponsor a complete series of tournaments to test gifted players at every level of competition. In 2006, Mission Hills became home of the Faldo Series Asia, and 2008 saw Jack Nicklaus partner with the club to create the Mission Hills Jack Nicklaus Junior Championship. Earlier this year, The Masters and The R&A chose Mission Hills to become the inaugural host of the Asian Amateur Championship. The club also recently established the Mission Hills Golf Series Junior Tour to give aspiring young golfers the chance to develop their skills in a regular, bi-weekly tournament setting.

The size of five Central Parks, 12-course Mission Hills has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest golf club in the world. Located 30 minutes north of Hong Kong, it also features a five-star hotel, four clubhouses, three spas, 51 tennis courts and numerous restaurants serving cuisine from all corners of the globe.

“Mission Hills is an astounding place,” says Haney. “I can see why it’s considered China’s premier club. Its dedication to cultivating golf throughout the Pacific Rim, breathtaking size and countless luxury amenities unquestionably make it golf’s nucleus in the Far East.”

About the Omega Mission Hills World Cup

The 2009 Omega Mission Hills World Cup continues a new and exciting era in the history of the event. John Jay Hopkins, a noted Canadian industrialist, founded the tournament in 1953 as a way to promote goodwill among nations through golf. Initially named the Canada Cup, it became the World Cup in 1967.

In 2007, Mission Hills secured an unprecedented agreement to host 12 editions of the tournament. With $5.5 million in prize money, the Omega Mission Hills World Cup boasts one of the highest purses for a golf tournament in Asia, and is the continent’s first golf event to be sanctioned by all international PGA Tours.

It is a four-day team event featuring a four-ball (better-ball) format on days one and three, and a foursomes (alternate shot) format on days two and four.

In its past two years as host, Mission Hills’ Olazabal Course has been universally lauded by participants and media alike. Its namesake, the two-time Masters champion, collaborated with Schmidt-Curley Design (www.schmidt-curley.com) to create a well-bunkered and dramatically contoured layout. Memorable holes abound, like the par-5 15th, featuring 24 bunkers, and the long par-4 18th finishing in the shadows of the massive Dongguan Clubhouse.

For more information, please visit http://worldcup.pgatour.com/.

About Mission Hills Golf Club

Stretching across the lush, rolling hills of Shenzhen and Dongguan in southern China, Mission Hills is China’s highest rated golf club, and the largest golf club in the world according to the Guinness World Records. The property is home to 12 resort and championship courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Greg Norman, Nick Faldo, Annika Sorenstam, Ernie Els, Jose Maria Olazabal, Vijay Singh, David Leadbetter, David Duval, Jumbo Ozaki and Zhang Lian Wei.

Mission Hills is a full-service, luxury resort, featuring four clubhouses, three spas, a five-star hotel, three golf academies (including one from world-renowned instructor Cindy Reid), 51 tennis courts and numerous fine dining establishments serving cuisine from around the world. It has hosted more than 50 international tournaments, including the 1995 World Cup of Golf and the 2001 Tiger Woods China Challenge. In 2007, Mission Hills began its role as long-term host of the Omega Mission Hills World Cup. The club will also host multiple editions of the Asian Amateur Championship.

Mission Hills’ recent awards and accolades include:

IAGTO Golf Resort of the Year (Rest of World category)
Best Golf Resort in China — Asian Golf Monthly (2006-2008)
Pete Dye Course named the “Best New Course in Asia” — Asian Golf Monthly
Olazabal Course ranked the No. 2 course in China — Asian Golf Monthly
Dr. David Chu, Chairman of Mission Hills Group, named one of the “Most Powerful People in Golf” — Golf Inc. (2007-2009)
Dr. Kenneth Chu, Vice Chairman of Mission Hills Group, named one of golf’s “Most Admired Operators” — Golf Inc.
World Cup Course named one of the 10 “most significant and influential courses” of last 20 years — LINKS Magazine
Olazabal Course ranked the No. 1 resort course in Asia — Golfing Magazine

PING UNVEIL NEW 4 UNDER STAND BAG

Equipment & apparel No Responses »

Nov 302009

Ping 4 Under stand bag.

Leading golf equipment manufacturer PING has recently launched an innovative and stylish golf bag that it claims to be the lightest stand bag it has ever produced.

Know as the 4 Under, this extremely lightweight carry bag meets the needs of the golfer who walks the course, but still wishes to carry all his essential golfing accessories with him. The sleek design, made of a lightweight nylon, offers four functional pockets and a simplified four-way top with two individual dividers to keep the bag’s weight low and performance high. An internal bag frame provides tight leg retraction and the patented retractable strap system features dual sliding straps for easy adjustment and comfort. A handy water bottle pouch, located on the bag’s spine has also been specifically positioned for easy reach whilst walking.

With 50 years experience in the golf equipment industry, PING’s approach to designing golf bags mirrors the way it engineers golf clubs, focusing primarily on quality, performance and design, while delivering constant innovation that golfers expect. The 4 Under is no exception to this rule, both encompassing function, style, comfort and convenience as with every bag that carries the PING name.

UK RRP: SEK 1,270

PGA Catalunya Resort site for European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage

Championship & event, Courses & clubs No Responses »

Nov 272009

PGA Catalunya Resort, home of the 2009 Spanish Open, welcomes back PGA European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage, November 28-December 3, for the second successive year.The finale of the three-stage event, which sees 156 players battle for playing privileges on the European Tour in 2010 (the top 30 plus ties qualify), will be contested over six rounds on both the Tour and Stadium courses at the acclaimed 36-hole resort near Girona, north of Barcelona.

The Stadium Course was ranked the number three golf course in Europe by Golf Monthly magazine in spring 2009 and has consistently appeared in the top 10 of Golf World’s European Top 100 Courses for the past decade, while the Tour Course is ranked among the Peugeot Golf Guide’s Top 1,000 Courses in Europe.Both courses will provide a fitting venue for the nerve-jangling, season closing contest to win cards for the lucrative Race to Dubai with young hopefuls, including Germany’s Stephan Gross Jr, winner of the 2008 European Amateur Championship, and England’s Sam Hutsby, the 2009 Amateur Championship finalist, joining European Tour champions Emanuele Canonica, Ryder Cup player Joakim Haegmann of Sweden and veteran Spaniard Santiago Luna.European Tour Qualifying School Director Mike Stewart said: “We are delighted to return to PGA Catalunya Resort for a second year, following the success of last year’s event. We should applaud the club and its greenkeeping staff for the outstanding condition of both the Stadium and Tour courses, which is the result of the intensive maintenance regime implemented during the past 12 months. The Qualifying School Final is naturally a stressful week for the players, but at least they know the courses they are playing on will be in the best possible shape as they strive to reach The European Tour.”Designed by Neil Coles and Angel Gallardo, PGA Catalunya Resort has a rich pedigree as a European Tour venue. Originally built by the Tour to host a Ryder Cup, it opened in 1999, hosting the Sarazen World Open won by Thomas Bjorn in the same year, and then the Spanish Open in 2000.In May 2009, the Stadium Course once again hosted the Spanish Open, featuring John Daly, Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie and the charismatic Frenchman Thomas Levet, the eventual winner.Billy O’Sullivan, CEO of PGA Catalunya Resort, said: “It is an honour to be selected to host European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage for the second successive year and we look forward to welcoming all the players. Both courses are in outstanding condition and will provide a great test of golf.“It has been a very exciting year for PGA Catalunya Resort, hosting a momentous Spanish Open in May and then seeing the launch of the first phase of our exclusive residences. Combined with the hotel and the convenient proximity of Girona-Costa Brava Airport, a major hub for Ryanair, PGA Catalunya is now the ultimate golf resort, and within a two-hour flight time of most European cities.”
PGA Catalunya Resort, home of the 2009 Spanish Open, welcomes back PGA European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage, November 28-December 3, for the second successive year.

The finale of the three-stage event, which sees 156 players battle for playing privileges on the European Tour in 2010 (the top 30 plus ties qualify), will be contested over six rounds on both the Tour and Stadium courses at the acclaimed 36-hole resort near Girona, north of Barcelona.

The Stadium Course was ranked the number three golf course in Europe by Golf Monthly magazine in spring 2009 and has consistently appeared in the top 10 of Golf World’s European Top 100 Courses for the past decade, while the Tour Course is ranked among the Peugeot Golf Guide’s Top 1,000 Courses in Europe.

Both courses will provide a fitting venue for the nerve-jangling, season closing contest to win cards for the lucrative Race to Dubai with young hopefuls, including Germany’s Stephan Gross Jr, winner of the 2008 European Amateur Championship, and England’s Sam Hutsby, the 2009 Amateur Championship finalist, joining European Tour champions Emanuele Canonica, Ryder Cup player Joakim Haegmann of Sweden and veteran Spaniard Santiago Luna.

European Tour Qualifying School Director Mike Stewart said: “We are delighted to return to PGA Catalunya Resort for a second year, following the success of last year’s event. We should applaud the club and its greenkeeping staff for the outstanding condition of both the Stadium and Tour courses, which is the result of the intensive maintenance regime implemented during the past 12 months. The Qualifying School Final is naturally a stressful week for the players, but at least they know the courses they are playing on will be in the best possible shape as they strive to reach The European Tour.”

Designed by Neil Coles and Angel Gallardo, PGA Catalunya Resort has a rich pedigree as a European Tour venue. Originally built by the Tour to host a Ryder Cup, it opened in 1999, hosting the Sarazen World Open won by Thomas Bjorn in the same year, and then the Spanish Open in 2000.

In May 2009, the Stadium Course once again hosted the Spanish Open, featuring John Daly, Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie and the charismatic Frenchman Thomas Levet, the eventual winner.

Billy O’Sullivan, CEO of PGA Catalunya Resort, said: “It is an honour to be selected to host European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage for the second successive year and we look forward to welcoming all the players. Both courses are in outstanding condition and will provide a great test of golf.

“It has been a very exciting year for PGA Catalunya Resort, hosting a momentous Spanish Open in May and then seeing the launch of the first phase of our exclusive residences. Combined with the hotel and the convenient proximity of Girona-Costa Brava Airport, a major hub for Ryanair, PGA Catalunya is now the ultimate golf resort, and within a two-hour flight time of most European cities.”

The Next Step towards Sustainable Golf Business

Fair, show & expo No Responses »

Nov 262009

The Next Step towards Sustainable Golf BusinessDelegates attending the 4th annual EGCOA conference in Amsterdam, December 2nd – 4th will have the opportunity to put questions to a panel of the world’s foremost experts on sustainable golf business.Chaired by Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive of the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO), the panel will take to the conference stage on Friday afternoon for an hour-long focus on ‘The Next Step’ in sustainability, followed by an open discussion with the floor.

A term that has relevance to each and every aspect of contemporary business, the drive towards sustainable lifestyles and livelihoods is set to define the 21st century. Golf is not operating in isolation from this trend. The potential for securing long-term economic, social and environmental stability is well within the industry’s grasp. Tools and methodologies to unlock product longevity and maximize profit are now available for golf businesses everywhere. Are your golf operations set to be surfing the crest of this wave or languishing in the doldrums?The real life application of sustainable golf development and management will be explored early in the session. Jeremy Slessor of European Golf Design will focus on the importance of integrating social and environmental issues into the project conceptualization stage. Jim McKenzie, Superintendent of Celtic Manor Resort – host venue for The 2010 Ryder Cup, will demonstrate how to harness the natural and cultural capital of your golf product to deliver a higher quality customer experience. Throughout the session speakers will be spotlighting the tools that are available to achieve these outcomes, and enable every golf owner and operator to pursue sustained and organic growth to their business.The remaining panelists are The Toro Company’s Andy Brown, who will talk about the five steps to water efficiency, and Benjamin Warren, Communications Director of GEO who will focus on the marketing opportunities that can be unlocked by making sure that your product exceeds the green expectations of your existing and future customer base.
Delegates attending the 4th annual EGCOA conference in Amsterdam, December 2nd – 4th will have the opportunity to put questions to a panel of the world’s foremost experts on sustainable golf business.

Chaired by Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive of the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO), the panel will take to the conference stage on Friday afternoon for an hour-long focus on ‘The Next Step’ in sustainability, followed by an open discussion with the floor.

A term that has relevance to each and every aspect of contemporary business, the drive towards sustainable lifestyles and livelihoods is set to define the 21st century. Golf is not operating in isolation from this trend. The potential for securing long-term economic, social and environmental stability is well within the industry’s grasp. Tools and methodologies to unlock product longevity and maximize profit are now available for golf businesses everywhere. Are your golf operations set to be surfing the crest of this wave or languishing in the doldrums?

The real life application of sustainable golf development and management will be explored early in the session. Jeremy Slessor of European Golf Design will focus on the importance of integrating social and environmental issues into the project conceptualization stage. Jim McKenzie, Superintendent of Celtic Manor Resort – host venue for The 2010 Ryder Cup, will demonstrate how to harness the natural and cultural capital of your golf product to deliver a higher quality customer experience. Throughout the session speakers will be spotlighting the tools that are available to achieve these outcomes, and enable every golf owner and operator to pursue sustained and organic growth to their business.

The remaining panelists are The Toro Company’s Andy Brown, who will talk about the five steps to water efficiency, and Benjamin Warren, Communications Director of GEO who will focus on the marketing opportunities that can be unlocked by making sure that your product exceeds the green expectations of your existing and future customer base.

Rife Putters Launch 2 New Models

Uncategorized No Responses »

Nov 252009

460 Mid Blade

Rife Putters are set to release their 2 newest models to the UK market – the 460 Mid Blade and the 400 Mid Mallet. Both of these putters feature Rife’s patented RollGroove™ technology that has made them the No. 1 putter on the Champions Tour for the last 2 years and one of the fastest growing putter companies across all world Tours, but at a new lower price point.

The 460 Mid Blade and 400 Mid Mallet are inspired by two of Guerin Rife’s original Tour designs from the year 2000, when he first introduced his putters on the PGA Tour. Incorporating the same technology and design that has made Rife one of the most popular putters on Tour, these two new additions will retail at the remarkably low price of SEK 995

460 Mid Blade

The 460 Mid Blade combines the original Tour blade and Pro Blade in what is now a heel-shafted cavity blade without a hosel. The 460 Mid Blade has a thinner anser style look while the extreme heel toe weighting provides excellent forgiveness. The classic square look of this putter makes it the perfect “entry level” model in RIFE’s product lineup. Even at this lower price point, it still features RIFE’s patented RollGrooveTM Technology which promotes the truest no skid roll in golf. Despite its affordable price there are still several players using this model on Tour.

SRP: SEK 995

400 Mid Mallet

The 400 Mid Mallet is a compact cavity back mallet that has equal tooling on both the heel and toe to create a very symmetrical mallet. The neck has been eliminated to save weight, and when combined with the large rear cavity and scalloped rear flange, the heel-toe effect is maximized and greatly enlarges the sweet spot. Like all Rife putters the 400 Mid Mallet features Rife’s patented RollGroove™ technology.

SRP: SEK 995

“It’s always exciting to launch a new line,” said Matt Molloy, President of Rife Putters. “To see all the research and hard work come together like this is very rewarding. This year we have something new for the consumer. We priced the 460 Mid Blade and the 400 Mid Mallet at a very reasonable SEK 995 to introduce RIFE’s technology to as

broad an audience as possiblefe’s latest additions – Same great technology, new lower prices

460 Mid Blade

SRP: SEK 995

400 Mid Mallet

SRP: SEK 995

broad an audience as possible.”

SON GUAL CELEBRATES A PHENOMENAL TWO YEARS

Uncategorized No Responses »

Nov 252009

3947192869_84a4ae89ba_b Mallorca’s top golf course, Son Gual, can look back on staggering progress as it celebrates its second birthday this month.

The 7,240-yard, Thomas Himmel-designed course opened in 2007 and within 18 months was hosting its first professional tour event: the Son Gual Mallorca Senior Open, won by former Ryder Cup captain Mark James.

Another former Ryder Cup captain, Ian Woosnam, walked off the course and compared the greens with those at Augusta National.

The 1991 Masters winner said: “It’s a bit like Augusta. There are a lot of slopes on the greens. You’ve got to get the ball on the right side of the hole – if you don’t you’ll be struggling. Miss it on the wrong side and you’re dead.”

Six months later Son Gual entered Golf World’s top 100 European courses list and the magazine described it as “…one of the more spectacular courses in the Mediterranean region.”

The reputation it has garnered within its first two years of operation has seen celebrities flock to the course to experience it for themselves.

The Sky Sports football ‘team’ played Son Gual as part of the end-of-season get-together and the likes of Andy Gray, Alan McInally, Alan Smith, Charlie Nicholas, Graeme Sharp and Jamie Redknapp were left eulogising over the quality of the venue.

Indeed Redknapp was so impressed he returned a few weeks later to play it again.

Other regular visitors include the world number two tennis player, Rafael Nadal and Liverpool’s flying Spanish winger, Albert Riera – who has gone on record as saying Son Gual is his favourite course.

Other familiar faces at the course have included Goldenballs’ presenter, comedian Jasper Carrott, tennis legend Boris Becker and German national football coach Joachim Löw.

Son Gual’s managing director, Andreas Pamer, insists achieving a place in the top 100 is just the beginning for Son Gual and not the pinnacle.

“It is good to be recognised as the best golf course in Mallorca,” he said.

“But it is our aim to also be recognised as the best in Spain and one of the top 10 courses in Europe.

“That was always the intention. We realised it was not going to be something we could achieve overnight. We are taking things gradually but we have made a considerable impact on the market in two years and we will continue to provide a premium product for the discerning golfer.”

It is a premium product which is appreciated: its debenture launch earlier this year brought in €1m-worth of memberships in the first month.

And despite the much-publicised credit crunch, more than 30 per cent of the new members came from the UK, as Son Gual’s reputation spread among owners of villas and the cruisers moored in the marina at Palma.

The debentures are valid for life, transferable and cover spouse and all children under 21 years of age.

By the time Mallorca’s number one golf course reaches its third anniversary there might not be many memberships remaining.

Mallorca’s top golf course, Son Gual, can look back on staggering progress as it celebrates its second birthday this month.