Costa del Sol Golf News » Issue 86

El Paraiso Golf Club News

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:56:00 +0000

Saint Valentine’s Ball
No amount of rain could dampen the enjoyment of The St. Valentine’s Ball held at the clubhouse on 14th February.
The dining hall was beautifully decked out in a manner befitting the occasion, the chef provided a very special menu for the evening, and with music from “It Takes Two” adding the romantic ingredient, love was in the air at El Paraiso, and a memorable evening was enjoyed by everyone.
Ladies’ Entertainment
On one of our wet Ladies Days, we had a quiz along the lines of “A Question of Sport”. During a round which involved miming different sports, it fell to a lady of very small stature to mime sumo wrestling! This provoked a great deal of laughter, even though nobody had a clue what the sport was.
We had a list of anagrams of European Ryder Cup players, and some proved very difficult, such as “Lost Brokers Ran” which turned out to be Robert Karlsson. Some of us found “Is Carriage Go” equally hard, and a loud groan went up from those who failed to identify it as Sergio Garcia. Inevitably the rains will stop and we shall all be heading for the first tee, with wet days forgotten – hopefully that day will come soon!
I sit here writing this article, in the hope that the clouds will roll away and we will return to warm, sunny skies. We seem to be paying the penalty of 10 months of dry, hot weather, with 2 months of almost continual rain. Perhaps its time for an El Paraiso swimming gala, or water polo in our lakes! Despite the poor weather, I’ve been delighted to welcome many new lady members to the club this year. In the expectation of some sunny weather, I hope to be playing golf with them very soon.
Captain’s Dinner
Everyone knows that the sun shines 320 days a year on the Costa De Sol and normality will soon be restored. The Committee are busy preparing for Captains Day on the 27th March. The dinner will be held this year at The Kempinski Hotel, and it promises to be another great occasion.
Members’ Week
Preparations are also in hand for The El Paraiso Team Week, – the Club’s premier competition, to be held in Easter week. A very full field is expected and it might be wise to start praying now for some decent weather. The week will start with the reception cocktail on the 4th of April.
Two-Generation Tournament
On January the 17th the two generation scramble competition was finally held after it was rained off back in December. We had 12 teams competing on the par 3 course and 19 teams on the big course. The course played long and for a number of youngsters it was their first time playing 18 holes, well done to you all.
A special mention must go to 9 year old Alejandro Dominguez who won the nearest to the pin on the 135 meter long 14th using a driver. After play we all gathered at the driving range for picnic and prize giving. Many thanks to the sponsor Marbella-Estepona Estates and El Paraiso Golf Club for offering the course. First prize winners: Luca Harrington and daddy – 59 points (18 hole) and Saida Fernandez and daddy – 33 (9 hole par 3).
LATE NEWS
By the time the next issue of this newspaper is published, El Paraiso Golf Club will have made public the launch of its new web site which will feature on-line booking for visitors and tour operators alike.
The new web page will also reflect the new marketing image for El Paraiso Golf Club, a more dynamic and modern look. Watch this space for more information and update on last minute deals.

Player of the Year

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:53:05 +0000

Kath Todd, of Sunshine Golf Society, received the 2009 Player of the Year award from the 2008 winner, Captain Les Wildgoose.
A great years golf Kath, well done.
This handsome Trophy was sponsored and supplied by Sunshine Golf.

Future Champions Junior Academy

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:52:07 +0000

The academy is now in its second year and we already have over 30 junior members, which we would like to increase to 60 by the end of this season.
This year some of our junior members have gone on to play and perform extremely well in international events. Sophie Phillips won the under 12s girls GM Spanish Open at Los Flamingos as well as the under 14 British Junior golf tour event at Forest Pines, and took first place again in the under 16s girls stableford section at the Hacienda del Alamo Ladies Golf Festival in Murcia. In addition George Twyman came third in the boys section at the GM Spanish Open at Los Flamingos, and Jack Hawkins came second in the boys section in the British Junior event at Forest Pines.
This academy is aimed at all juniors, boys and girls aged between 5 and 18. There will be a registration and membership fee of 50€, this fee is to join the academy for one year and to receive your academy membership card (with added benefits, eg discounted green fees, discount at selected restaurants), your academy shirt and cap, that you will be required to wear at all events.
The junior academy members will be split into three categories
Category 3: Handicaps 28 and over-play all tournaments at El Soto Club de Golf
Category 2: Handicaps 18 to 28- play tournaments at El Soto Club de Golf & 9 hole tournaments at Calanova Golf.
Category 1: Handicaps 18 and under- play two tournaments a month, one at El Soto Club de Golf and one at Calanova Golf.
There will also be five yearly major events, The F.C.J.A Open Championship, The F.C.J.A Masters, The F.C.J.A PGA Championship, The F.C.J.A Players Championships,
and The F.C.J.A Short course Championships. In these major events the order of merit points will be doubled.
Before each tournament a one hour coaching session will be held at the hosting golf club.
When a tournament is being staged at Calanova, Head PGA Golf Professional Monty Bordelon will hold a long game coaching session.When a tournament is being staged at El Soto Club de Golf, Head PGA Golf Professional Sean Stiff will hold a short game coaching session.
For more information, check out our website www.futurechampionsjunioracademy.com

Golf’s Mental!

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:47:33 +0000

So ask the expert!

Welcome to my column here in Costa Del Sol Golf News.
Every edition, I will give my view on some of the mental aspects of the game of golf that prevent players progressing. At the bottom of the column you will find my e-mail address and each edition I will answer a couple of the best questions I receive. My aim is to get you playing better and enjoying the game just a little bit more! Let’s start with a question from Simon in Sotogrande.
“When does confidence become arrogance?
This question could relate to a golfer very much in the news – Mr Poulter!
I have heard lots of people describe Ian Poulter as arrogant But isn’t he just an example of someone with extreme confidence?
The difference for me is the way other people view the comments that are made. Does the individual talk down the efforts of others or do they over state their level of ability. If people hear either, they tend to feel the person is arrogant. Ian Poulter may have been guilty of over-stating his ability when he claimed that when at his best, “there is only me and Tiger” However, look at him now! Poulter
has got better and better and is currently ranked 5 in the world. The question we should ask is why shouldn’t he think very highly of himself and use his supreme selfconfidence to underpin his efforts.
He also draws attention to himself with his loud outfits, memorably those union jack trousers!
Something you may not know about Ian Poulter – he was 4 handicap when he was 18 and can be used as great inspiration to young players who believe in themselves.
I say good luck to him! The game needs characters and a few who believe they can be the best and genuinely strive for that.
A question?
stuart@thesportsacademy.org

Looking for New Talent!

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:45:55 +0000

Although it seems early to be talking about next season already, The Sports Academy started to recruit new clients for September 2009 at this time last year.
The project at Alhaurin Golf will go into its second year hopefully with plenty of bright new talent. Interviews have already taken place with potential clients from as far afield as Sweden and Poland.
The Sports Academy’s golf programmes have been developed with a single goal in mind; to provide junior golfers with a platform to reach their true potential in golf without restricting possible alternative careers. The course contents are built around our three main components: Golf Coaching, Golf Competition and Education. In addition to the development of a better golf game, we also seek to bring a sense of purpose and perspective to the time each student spends at the academy. Our aim is to nurture the talents of each student, through our strong emphasis on developing the total person, to arm them with the life skills to succeed in any chosen field.
The Sports Academy’s unique programme provides students with many routes of progression following their time with us and opens many doors.
The Programme can lead to access to professional golf, higher education, careers in the golf industry, careers in general sports industries and also a lower handicap!
The Sports Academy employs top class golf coaches, experienced in the delivery of both the technical and physical aspects of the game.
The Sports Academy can offer courses at Alhaurin to suit every young players needs. From the fulltime education inclusive course to Saturday morning classes, a prospective students’ requirements can be met.
For more details please call Patsy Fomes on 626 063 225 or e-mail patsy@thesportsacademy.org.

TSA NEWS
This issue, I would like to mention players at The Sports Academy with higher handicaps. The two youngest students, Jake Rose 14 and Myles King 13, have done extremely well already.
Jake started in October with a handicap of 15 and has performed so well in TSA competitions that he currently leads the nett Order of Merit and has reduced his handicap to 8 already!
It is a similar story for Myles, who started with a handicap of 13. Myles has played really well too in TSA competitions with his best score of 76 helping to reduce his handicap to 8 as well.
He also won a junior competition at Magna Marbella with a score of 1 over par.
Also worthy of mention are Jordan Abbasciano and Dani Anderson. Jordan joined the academy in October with a handicap of 9 and excellent scores including a level par 72 have moved his handicap to 5. Dani performed superbly at the Golf Festival at Hacienda del Aloma. Playing off a 4 handicap in a very strong field, Dani finished 6th in her category and 2nd in the nett completion.

Alhaurin Golf Update

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:39:23 +0000

ROADWORKS…
The Coín road has now been asphalted, painted, and is now open to traffic! (This benefits those golfers coming from Marbella area)

Directions:
• From A-7 (Autopista del Mediterraneo)
• Take A-355 towards Ojen for about 18 to 20 minutes.
• Take the exit towards MA-3303 connecting Coin (to the left) with Fuengirola and Mijas (to the right).
• Go right towards Fuengirola and Mijas.
• After 5 minutes you will get to a roundabout where Alhaurin Golf is sign posted.
Alternatively, for people coming from Fuengirola, Benalmadena, and the Mijas area, they need to drive up to Mijas Village from Fuengirola ( A-387).
When you are on A-7 / AP-7, this is exit 214 when coming from Malaga or exit 213 when coming from Cadiz)

ONLINE BOOKINGS
Our new online booking system is proving very popular, as it allows the golfer to book at any time of the day, from any location.The benefits are many, including
• Direct booking, choosing your tee time personally
• Reduced tariffs
• Environmentally friendly as no paper is wasted
• Reduced cost of booking (no phone calls or faxes)
• Payment on arrival
• Immediate confirmation
UPCOMING CHARITY TOURNAMENT
We are holding a great charity event with Miguel Ángel Jiménez on 21st March.
In summary, the day will consist of:
• Golf clinic by Miguel Ángel Jiménez at the driving range, where he will spend some time with each child.
• Pro-Am competition for kids on the par 3 course (The Pros will include some of the Sports Academy Team.
(www.thesportsacademy.org)
• Adult competition on the main course.
• Mercedes Benz for hole in one.
• Longest drive competition from the bar terrace to fairway number 1!
• Prize giving by Miguel Ángel Jiménez.
• Special prize auction: Real Madrid signed shirts, Fernando Alonso signed Spanish Flag, etc.
All funds will be to support Colegio Internacional Torrequebrada setting up a School in Haití. The school building will be financed by Real Madrid Football Club.
It will be a great day and we would very much appreciate if you could find the time to contribute to such a worthwhile event.

Calanova News

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:37:56 +0000

TOURNAMENTS
Despite the horrendous weather conditions over the last few months, we still were able to celebrate three tournaments during the month of February.
We were the first golf club on the coast to organise a CHARITY TOURNAMENT FOR HAITI, and money raised on the day was donated to Medicos Sin Fronteras to help the tragic victims in this country.
Early February we played host to the 2ND HOTEL BEATRIZ & SPA FUENGIROLA TOURNAMENT and romance was in the air for our St Valentine (pairs better ball) day competition.

COURSE UPDATE
The course is now really getting back into shape, and looking a lot better, despite the heavy rainfall. The greens in particular have improved greatly, and the only remaining problem is the 7th hole, where we still have a couple of problem patches. Our regular clients have been very complimentary on the hard work done by our greenkeeping staff, which is now bearing fruit as the course starts to shine again.

Golf News Travels Fast

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:36:59 +0000

The Golf News is now read by a wider audience due to recent appearance at THE GOLF WORLD PRAGUE trade show.
As usual, copies went very fast and the sold out sign was put up on the last day of the event.

Komperdell’s New Top Spin Putter

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:35:49 +0000

THE HIGHROLLER on the Green!

Unique – precise – perfect roll – control of direction – sensational putt results…
KOMPERDELL offers for 2010 a luxury limited edition of the Top Spin Putter with its round club head shape – the Golden Spin Putter which is coated with 18 carate pure gold.
Absolutely an eye-catcher in every bag! Luxury but affordable…
Local Stockist: Sunshine Golf at La Cala
Top Spin Putter: €149.95
Golden Spin Putter: €299.95

Andalucía Golf-APGA Circuit at Los Arqueros

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:34:13 +0000

The Quiros family took first position in the first event of this year’s circuit. The course was in excellent condition in spite of the weather, and 50 teams took part in the Pro-Am in a very competitive field.
The winning team comprised of professional Daniel Quirós and amateurs Ángel Acha, Javier Domínguez and Javier Guerrero.
The prize-giving and cocktail took part in the members lounge of Los Arqueros and was hosted by Agustín García, captain of Los Arqueros and on behalf of the board of directors, Miguel Antonio Jiménez, professional at Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club. Juan Rosa, president of the APGA, Angel Durán, secretary of the APGA board and Juan Jóse Guillén, secretary of the organisation were also in attendance. There were prizes for the best classifications and a raffle with sport equipment for the rest of the participants.
Thanks were extended to the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Sports of the Junta de Andalucía for sponsoring the circuit and also for promoting sports in our region and supporting our Andalusian professionals. Many thanks were also given to the staff of Los Arqueros for their hard work and courtesy.
The following day 98 professionals played the challenging course, and the strong winds saw the professionals struggle to record good scores. Nevertheless, Raúl Quirós triumphed with 67 strokes (4 under par), followed by his brother Daniel and in third position their uncle Juan Quirós, European Senior Tour player. For more information and classifications htpp://www.agp-andalucia.es

Multicultural meeting at Lauro Golf

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:31:50 +0000

Thanks to a day of dry and sunny weather Lauro Golf celebrated both the day of Finnish culture and the day of Andalucia with the “Kalevalan päivä/Día de Andalucía” competition.
Andalusian and Finnish flags were hanging as a symbol of brotherhood between the two communities.
The day of Finnish culture is known as “Kalevalan päivä” due to the famous work “Kalevala”, an epic poem compiled by Elias Lönnrot in the nineteenth century from Finnish folk sources, and it is equivalent to the Spanish “Cantar de Mio Cid”.
The competition was a great success, and a group of 15 Finnish juniors demonstrated the quality of their game and gave a good account of their passion for golf.
After the game, all the participants could enjoy an exquisite paella and a refreshing beverage served by the Mama Luchia Restaurant, the new management team at the main restaurant at Lauro Golf.
Numerous prizes were given in this occasion, thanks to all the sponsors of this event:

Results

Gentlemen
1 Alexander Walsoe   39pts
2 Jeff Cooper   37pts
3 Joonas Lehtola   36pts

Ladies
1 erry Wdowiak   32pts
2 Susan Patchett   30pts
3 Jasmiina Kivini   28pts

Nearest to the pin:
Lady: Terry Wdowiak
Gent: A. J. Suoniemi

Scratch Prize: Mikael Makisalo

News From Miraflores

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:29:39 +0000

DOUBLE CELEBRATION AS LADIES AND MEN FROM MIRAFLORES WIN BOTH SENIOR LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Each year senior golfers take part in The Costa Del Sol Senior League and the final matches of last season took place in November (Men) and December (Ladies) at Alhaurin Golf and Miraflores Golf respectively.
13 men’s and 9 ladies’ teams from Miraflores, Anoreta, Guadalmina, Alhaurin and La Canada participated throughout the season. Very well done to all who took part and a huge congratulations to the Men and Ladies of Miraflores who won both events.
LAUNCH OF THE NEW SPIKES BAR
The newly reformed Spikes bar kicked off on the 20th January with a spectacular supper evening that was attended by over 150 members and guests. The entertainment was provided by Christopher Howard who gave splendid renditions of numbers from famous Musicals, most notably ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and ‘The Rocky Horror Show’. It was a great evening and ensured sell-outs for the next event on the 10th March. Jim Bray, who oversaw the rebuilding at the club was praised for his work and his wife Janet was presented with a lovely bouquet of flowers.
Watch out for upcoming events such as Quiz Night on the last Monday of every month and a Race Night on Easter Monday evening. You don’t need to be a member as all are welcome to join in the fun.
CAPTAINS CHARITY DAY IN AID OF CUDECA AND THE HEART FOUNDATION – SATURDAY 13TH MARCH 2010
The Captains of Miraflores, David Alsop and Ann James are holding a Captains Charity Day that starts off with a fun competition in the morning and concludes with a Black-Tie Dinner in aid of the above charities. Book with the Caddy Master for day and evening.
5,500 EUROS RAISED FOR DOWNS SYNDROME CHARITY
Thanks to donators, buyers and all who participated in the final auction in November 2009 for Downs Syndrome. Raising a fantastic 5,500 Euros this was a great success.
SHARES AVAILABLE
See our advertisement on opposite page to see how you can become a member with a share in this wonderful club and have full playing rights for 2010 at an unbeatable amount of 2,500 Euros. Contact the clubhouse on 952 931 960 or email: info@miraflores-golf.com

WATCH THIS SPACE AS MIRAFLORES CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR!

Made to Measure Does Not Mean Expensive

Golf News — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:25:51 +0000

Most people have the idea that clothing or clubs which are made to a specific golfers needs are very expensive.
At Anda Golf we have demonstrated over the years that this is not always the case. Our prices start at only €65 for bermudas and €75 for trousers and we can create your own design in 3 or 4 days. Add a touch of class with your name embroidered on your garment. Our work is guaranteed and do not hesitate to contact us for small alterations which will be free of charge.
ANDA GOLF IS LOOKING FORWARD TO CREATING A UNIQUE STYLE JUST FOR YOU.
We are located just in front of the BP petrol station at La Cala (See Advert on Page 1) www.andagolf.com

Torreblanca Golf Society News

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:37:28 +0000

January and February continued where December left off, continual rain on the Costa del Sol!
Despite the terrible conditions we still managed to play some golf. The gods were kind to us as nearly every Thursday, even after heavy rain overnight, the rain stopped during play giving us at least a dry day. Unfortunately, despite the valiant efforts of the greenkeepers, the wet weather had left the fairways in a far from ideal condition. This however did not stop us enjoying the golf as we were all glad to be out in the fresh air.
January 21st saw our first major tournament of the year and was played at Lauro Golf. This was a very special day on two counts. Firstly we were playing for the first time for the much coveted “Scouser Trophy.” Secondly Jack Wilson had just become a great grandfather, another first for the society. The day was sponsored by Pat and Bill (the weather man) Giles who also supplied the trophy. There would have been similar trophies for the second and third but unfortunately the driver returned to his car. (apologies to the Ford owner who is now driving around with only three hub caps!) First place went to Arthur Casco with a score of 31 points. Second was Ian Ashworth with 30 points and third was Neil Juniper with 30 points.
The 28th January was at Calanova and sponsored by the Red Dragon Golf Bar. The winner with 31 points was Eric Chapman. Second, also with 31, was Peter Bull and third with 29 points was Leon Dore.
On the 4th February we played at the newly designed Marbella Golf and Country Club. The day was sponsored by Ian (I say) Ashworth. First with 35 Points was Sue Cobb, second with 33 points was Robyn Wheeler and third with 31 points was Chris Lawrence.
On the 18th February we again played at Calanova. The day was sponsored by Mick Gilligham. First with 33 points was Roy Ingham, yours truly came second with 30 points and third place went to Mick Gillingham with 28 points.

Sunshine Golf News

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:36:27 +0000

Sunshine Golf have secured the exclusive Spanish distribution rights to the latest fun Hair Flair caps, a great gift for the folically challenged golfer.
They come in a range of hair/cap colours and can be customised by Sunshine Golf with the golfers name or logo.
Soon to arrive are the pre logo’d caps for England, Spain and the other competing nations at this summers world cup in South Africa. Competitively priced at 19.95 euros each plus 5 euros for an embroidered logo.

Elite Golf Services Do It Again!

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:31:49 +0000

The Two Waynes Organise a Great Competition in Aid of the Diabetic Support Group

Elite Golf Services of Fuengirola organised a three-day charity golf tournament at the end of January, with 92 golfers playing, which turned out to be a great success.
THE ANDALUCIA CUP 2010 was competed for over three different courses – Santana, El Chaparral and Santa Clara. The presentation of prizes was made at POGS BAR (Paradise Of Golf Societies!) on the last evening. Ross the owner and his staff worked so hard to open on time after a disastrous few days of flooding during the bad weather.
Luckily, the three days golf was not marred by rain resulting in some good scoring.
Apart from the main sponsors AvailableNOW, MalagaMinibus.com, Shoot Golf, POGS Bar and Elite Golf Services Wayne Burton, the owner of Elite Golf Services would also like to thank the following golf courses for their kind donations to the auction: El Chaparral, El Paraiso, Finca Cortesin, La Cala Resort, La Quinta, Los Naranjos, Marbella Club, Marbella G&C, Mijas Golf, Miraflores, Monte Mayor, Rio Real, Santana, Santa Clara, Santa Maria, San Roque and Torrequebrada.
The amount raised for the Mijas La Cala Lions Diabetic Support Group at the raffle and auction amounted to 2.725 euros and Elite Golf Services made it up to 4.000 euros in total – a wonderful gesture.
Frank Bowles, the co-founder of DSG, thanked all concerned for this fantastic donation:
‘We will now be able to move forward and expand our horizons. We need a top-class website and a base in town to be able to meet up with diabetics on a weekly basis.
With the help of people like Wayne Burton we hope to make the lives of diabetics on the coast more comfortable and less stressful.’
Elite Golf Services will hold another three-day event next year – from 27th January 2011. For further details contact +34 952 464 614 or EM: info@elitegolfservices.com and book your place now!

Help for Haiti

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:27:57 +0000

Estepona Golf Day A Great Success

Estepona Golf and Talk Radio Europe recently teamed up to create the “Tournament for Haiti” with their combined efforts having now raised over 12,500 Euro for the Christian Fellowship Charity.
It began with a short phone call between Rory Leader (President of Estepona Golf) and Maurice Bolland (MD of Talk Radio Europe) which led to the brainwave and the notion that they just had to help the disaster victims in Haiti in some small way. It took just 10 days to pull it all together. “In fact we had around 60 people standing by and could have sold out a much larger venue” said Maurice.
A big thank you goes out to all those involved and to the hundreds that had supported the event so well. The Golf tournament took place at Estepona Golf on the morning of the 5th of February at 9 am. 80 keen people braved the very poor weather conditions, including many celebrities from the world of show biz and sport to play 18 holes of golf. Stan Boardman, Kenny Lynch, Mike England and Dennis Taylor all turned out to join in the fun.
After battling the conditions all day the eventual winners emerged coming from the last group out. Dennis Taylor and Mike England scored a fantastic 44 points from the 2 ball better ball format.
Following a quick beer, shower and change it was off to the Gala Dinner venue at the beautiful La Quinta resort where guests were treated to a fantastic evening of food, wine and first class entertainment from singers including Wow Factor winners Christian Fa and Rebecca Tate, Stephen Lloyd-Morgan, The Gospel Choir, and comedy acts by Stan Boardman and Kenny Lynch.
Raffles, auctions and many pledges later saw Maurice reveal late in the evening that the events together had raised around 12,500 Euros -going directly to those that need it most in Haiti!
A great effort by all and it shows you what can be done when we share an important common goal and a caring humanitarian spirit!
Photos provided by Gary Edwards.

Harro Joins Team At Los Flamingos

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:25:20 +0000

Harro Rijnders has recently been appointed as the director of the American Golf Academy and the Tramores Golf Club, both located in the fabulous Los Flamingos / Villa Padierna Golf Resort.
After work experiences in Holland, Belgium and Germany, Harro became the youngest head-professional in Holland at the age of 21, and in the same year he decided to extend his professional skills to the Costa del Golf.
After successfully assisting in the opening of the golf academies at La Quinta and Atalaya, Harro took up the challenge to direct the Monte Mayor Golf Club, a position he left after more than 8 years in charge to join this new and exciting project.
Very best wishes from the Costa del Sol Golf News.
For more information please email: info@americangolfacademy.es

They’re Back!

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:23:22 +0000

La Resina Golf and Country Club has begun a new era.
This spectacular but little – known 9 hole course is situated just off the N340 at the Selwo Safari turn off between San Pedro and Estepona and has recently been taken taken over by two well-known faces of the Costa del Golf, Marcos Lería and Javier Llagostera.
Marcos and Javier aim to make the course a reference point for quality at value for money prices, and we wish our good friends the very best of luck for their new project.
Visit them for yourselves and tell them that the Golf News sent you.

Team Tiger Add Insult To Injury

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:21:18 +0000

The sooner Tiger Woods gets back to winning golf tournaments the sooner we’ll be spared any more grotesque public confessionals.
The advisors who put him up to that excruciating performance in Florida should be forced to watch it over and over again for the rest of their working days. What possessed them to stand him up to act and speak like a Dalek in front of an audience that looked to have been collectively tranquilised beforehand? And who thought it would be a good idea to let Tiger bare his teeth and lash out at the paparazzi?
One minute he’s all humble and doe-eyed, asking for forgiveness, the next he’s back to Mr control freak trying to tell the rest of the world to leave him and his family alone. Tabloid photographers are a fact of celebrity life Tiger, especially bad-behaving celebrity’s lives. Get over it. It saddens me to poke fun at Tiger Woods because I’ve been one of his supporters and promoters over the years and he was always very good to me.
Whatever he’s done, he deserves a chance to rehabilitate himself in the eyes of his family and friends and the public at large. He also deserves proper help and advice from the people around him who, let’s face it, have done very well out of brand Tiger. From day one, they’ve been trying to fix the brand rather than the man. If they’d just concentrate on the making the man better, all the corporate stuff would fall into place eventually. Much of what he said on that bizarre day in Florida was okay but it was all wrapped up in sponsor-speak and Tiger Woods Foundation updates.
All he had to do was stand up and say his childhood was a freak show and he never had any girlfriends until he was in his twenties, only to find that suddenly he could have any girl he wanted. Sorry I messed up so badly. Please forgive me and let me try to sort this out with my wife and kids. A couple of sympathetic questions from a supportive press corps, some faltering, natural responses, a few tears. End of story.
Instead, thanks to the shameful incompetence of his “people”, the wound is still very much open and the more vindictive sections of the media are just waiting to pour more salt into it.

October, South Wales…

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:20:12 +0000

Four weeks prior to the Andalucian Masters, an altogether bigger worldwide audience will be watching the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor.
Speculation continues to rage – and a certain amount of sniggering still goes on – about just how bad the weather might be and what effect it will have on golf’s greatest showpiece. Well, the gloom and doomers might be right and it could be cold and wet and foggy and it might take an extra day to see who’s victorious. So what? We’ve had fog delays in places like Dubai and we recently had play stopped because of wind and rain in the Arizona desert so a bit of rain and fog at Celtic Manor is hardly going to be something new. All I’ll say is that having been on the course filming on a peaceful winter’s day at the end of last year, I looked around the natural amphitheatre created by the valley and imagined the roars of the galleries on different holes and felt confident that Celtic Manor and its owner Sir Terry Matthews might just have the last laugh.

October, Southern Spain…

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:18:25 +0000

Isn’t it great to see Valderrama back on the European Tour schedule?
It’s like seeing an old masterpiece restored to its rightful position on the walls of one of the famous art galleries.
Don’t expect all the top players to agree with that because some of them have never had the success at Valderrama that would allow them the luxury of admiring its natural beauty.
They can put that right in the Andalucian Masters which, with a three million euro prize fund and a prime position in the schedule in the final stages of the Race to Dubai, is sure to attract one of the season’s strongest fields.
As I’ve said before on this page, it’s important for Southern Spain to maintain its reputation for staging world-class golf events because the link between that and the tourist business is surely significant.
If the weather is kind that last week in October and plenty of fans turn out on the weekend, anyone watching on television in the UK and throughout the world will be reminded of what the Costa del Sol has to offer.

Moving up in the World

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:16:29 +0000

Golf Amigos, the tour operator business started by my wife Norma 17 years ago has just moved to new offices and is enjoying great business from its thousands of regular clients.
While many bigger companies have gone under and while the fly-by-nights who seem to spring up every week deservedly struggle, Golf Amigos has always steered a steady course through the choppy, competitive waters of the golf holiday business.
When others were so desperate for business that they sold holidays at a loss, Norma and her partner Gordon Murray refused to match their crazy prices. In the short term they perhaps lost out on bookings but the company remained on a sound financial footing and was better-placed than most when the recession came.
Also, Golf Amigos, which operated primarily on the Costa del Sol in the early years but which now offers golf holidays all over the world, always worked to the letter of the ATOL licence which provides bonding for reputable tour operators.
Now, with the holiday market picking up again, they’ve emerged as one of the strongest companies in the business and I’m very proud of my association with them. Over the years I’ve had to help out when it came to identifying some of the unlicensed chancers on the Costa Del Sol who think they can become tour operators overnight and think nothing of tapping up clients while they’re enjoying their holiday.
It hasn’t been easy for Norma and her small hard-working staff but the formula seems to be working and I hope they can continue to send golfers to the Costa del Sol for many years to come.

Spare A Thought

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:14:57 +0000

During these very difficult times we should spare a thought for the Golf Directors on the Costa del Sol.
They must be under extreme pressure from the owners to attract visiting golfers in between the dreadful weather being experienced. Wages still have to be paid and the green staff must be utilised wherever possible.
February is traditionally one of the busiest months of the year. Takings must be well down but the overheads still have to be met.
If and when you can get back to your favourite course for a game, give the Golf Director a friendly smile, commiserate with him and, despite your own feeling of frustration and discontent, understand that he has a very difficult job at the best of times.

Tom Barton

Affairs Of The Tiger!

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:13:29 +0000

It’s now time to let the man get on with playing golf. He has, by now, served his punishment. His wife appears to have forgiven the past (almost!) and he may be a reformed character after his treatment.
The likes of John Terry and Ashley Cole continued to play football during and after their affairs and the public, despite the few boo-boys, have allowed them to get on with their chosen professions.
Tiger is still the No. 1 golfer in the world and most of us want him back in his rightful place – on the tee. Let’s hope that he can find his mind clear enough and his swing smooth enough to return to compete in The Masters next month.

(Name Supplied)

El Chaparral… Overseas Membership now available

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 21:10:41 +0000

This very popular course is now offering overseas golfers the opportunity to become a part of the club.
There are two options available covering six months and one year respectively, and the offer is available to both individuals and couples.
Call Antonio Rodriguez on 952 587 733 for further details and see advert on page 24 of this issue.

Tramores Golf & American Golf Academy Opening At Flamingos Golf Resort

Golf News — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 20:58:19 +0000

Par 63 Course To Open At Easter

Tramores Golf Club, the third course at the Los Flamingos / Villa Padierna Resort will be open in time for the Easter holiday period.
Because of its technical layout it will favour the accurate rather than the bold, although you do however get the possibility to take out those woods on several occasions.
The course is a perfect setting for those players who do not have enough time to play the usual four and a half hour round, golfers that are looking for a course where they can gain a little more confidence, and those players who get a little nervous just standing on the first tee.
The American Golf Academy is located next to the golf course. “Having an 18 hole golf course on the doorsteps of the Academy is unique, it will allow us to incorporate playing golf from the first day people touch a club” comments Academy Director Harro Rijnders.
“There is no better way of learning the game than through playing. Novice golfers will absorb the atmosphere of a golf course, learn how to move, talk, enjoy and prepare much faster then on your usual driving range,” added Harro, “With over 25 top greens to work with it is also an Academy which will offer short game clinics at all levels.”
For more information contact info@tramoresgolf.com or info@americangolfacademy.es

Golf News Tournament at San Roque

Golf News — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:55:26 +0000

We are delighted to announce that we will be sponsoring the SAN ROQUE OPEN DAY TOURNAMENT on Saturday 27th March, to be held on the New Course at 10.00 am.

The event will be played under Pairs Better Ball format and will have some great prizes on offer. Reservations can be made by contacting the club on info@sanroqueclub.com or by calling 956 613 030.

GREEN FEE ONLY €60 INCLUDING BUGGY AND PRIZE-GIVING COCKTAIL