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Friday, 1/Dec/2006
Lady Joan Bader was back in the Algarve again this November to officiate at the grand final of
Lady Joan Bader was back in the Algarve again this November to officiate at the grand final of
The Bader Cup. This annual mixed-greensomes Stableford event involves 12 regional finals that are played throughout the UK and has now been staged for some 20 years. This years grand final took place at the recently opened Alamos course with its cunningly contoured greens and a variety of interesting holes in the beautiful rural setting north of Portimao. On the day it was 8-handicapper Simon Smith and his school teacher wife Jill, members of the Rye Hill Golf Club, who produced the best rounds by carding a total of 43 points to receive the coveted cup from Lady Bader. She being the widow of the famed World War ace pilot Douglas Bader, and President of the Foundation set up in his name shortly after he passed away in 1982. Three points behind the winners were Anthony Thompson and Linda Farrington (Fishwick Hall), followed by Steven Frazer and Elizabeth Morgan (Callander) with 39 pts. TheDouglas Bader Foundationis a charitable institution that aids the disabled, and the many golfers have collectively raised over £300,000 during the years for its worthy cause.
Friday, 1/Dec/2006
The 28th annual Open run by Portuguese Airline TAP, attracted 250 amateur golfers which including 70 ladies from 14 countries. Many were Portuguese expatriates who took this opportunity to visit their country of origin. One of such was this year
The 28th annual Open run by Portuguese Airline TAP, attracted 250 amateur golfers which including 70 ladies from 14 countries. Many were Portuguese expatriates who took this opportunity to visit their country of origin. One of such was this year
s winner Virgílio Carolino, a resident in Brazil for 47 years. A member of Guaruja Golf Club near Santos, Carolino carded a 72-hole net score of 278 over the Penina, Palmares, Gramacho and Vale da Pinta courses. This placed him eight strokes clear of 2nd placed Rui Alves. The ladiesprize went to former basketball player Ligia Santos from Portugal, after a count back from Rolanda Witmann from Austria as both having tied on 315 net. Rolanda is the wife of rally driver Franz Witmann, a 12-time champion in his home country and once winner of the New Zealand rally, as well as being current chairman of the Austrian Golf Federation. Apart from the overall net prizes, others prizes were awarded for the leading net and gross scores in several handicap divisions.
Friday, 1/Dec/2006
There was an exciting conclusion to the PGA European Seniors Tour qualifying school staged at the Vale da Pinta course in the Carvoeiro area. All the usual sudden death play-offs for the top six full cards and 11 provisional cards for the 2007 Seniors Tour season created a sense of keen competition. However, two players created a stir when Spain
There was an exciting conclusion to the PGA European Seniors Tour qualifying school staged at the Vale da Pinta course in the Carvoeiro area. All the usual sudden death play-offs for the top six full cards and 11 provisional cards for the 2007 Seniors Tour season created a sense of keen competition. However, two players created a stir when Spain
s excitable Emílio Rodriguez and the much calmer David Merriman from Australia, tied on 9 under par and fought out a sudden death decider for the £3,500 (€5,168) winners cheque. It was the Australian club pro from Sydney who triumphed at the 2nd play-off hole, a par-5 fourth hole, calmly sinking a 14-foot birdie putt after Rodriguez failed to reach the green in three following a wayward fairway wood 2nd shot ended up blocked out in the right-hand rough. David Merriman had previously said:As a golf pro you want to play competitive golf, so I thought I would come over to Europe and give it a crack. Winning the event was the icing on the cake for him.
Friday, 1/Dec/2006
The Algarve Tourist Association has offered to host the International Golf Travel Market in 2008. This event was last held in the Algarve in 1999 at Vilamoura, when the region was nominated the best established golf destination by IAGTO (International Golf Travel Agent Association). This award given to the Algarve again in 2005. The IGTM board is at present analyzing the various 2008 venue applications and the result will be published in the near future.
The Algarve Tourist Association has offered to host the International Golf Travel Market in 2008. This event was last held in the Algarve in 1999 at Vilamoura, when the region was nominated the best established golf destination by IAGTO (International Golf Travel Agent Association). This award given to the Algarve again in 2005. The IGTM board is at present analyzing the various 2008 venue applications and the result will be published in the near future.
Sunday, 1/Oct/2006
Early in September the 4th Portuguese Cardiology Foundation tournament was played on the fine 18-hole course Quinta de Cima. Many of the 88 participants driving down from Lisbon and much further a field. The two-player better-ball team event was won by Tiago Almeida and Luis Pereira with a net medal score of 58 strokes, edging out two other teams with scores of 59 and 60.
Early in September the 4th Portuguese Cardiology Foundation tournament was played on the fine 18-hole course Quinta de Cima. Many of the 88 participants driving down from Lisbon and much further a field. The two-player better-ball team event was won by Tiago Almeida and Luis Pereira with a net medal score of 58 strokes, edging out two other teams with scores of 59 and 60.
Sunday, 1/Oct/2006
After another exceptionally hot summer which extended into September which was tempered by a few rain showers, we are back into the golf season when one can witness hundreds of trolleys with golf bags being wheeled out of Faro airport. Some of the golf tourists come to play the courses just over the Spanish border along the Costa de la Luz. By far the vast majority are attracted to the thirty-odd fine courses spread along the coastline of the Algarve which is enjoying its second times award as the World
After another exceptionally hot summer which extended into September which was tempered by a few rain showers, we are back into the golf season when one can witness hundreds of trolleys with golf bags being wheeled out of Faro airport. Some of the golf tourists come to play the courses just over the Spanish border along the Costa de la Luz. By far the vast majority are attracted to the thirty-odd fine courses spread along the coastline of the Algarve which is enjoying its second times award as the World
s Best Golf Destination for 2006.
Sunday, 1/Oct/2006
As usual several charity events are held in the summer to raise funds. An example of such is the annual
As usual several charity events are held in the summer to raise funds. An example of such is the annual
David Seaman Safe Hands Classicat Parque da Floresta in the far western point of the region.
Sunday, 1/Oct/2006
Former footballer, John Aldridge, is hosting the 5th edition of his
Former footballer, John Aldridge, is hosting the 5th edition of his
Charity Classicfrom 12th to the 14th October, with participants playing along with several celebrity footballers, jockeys Keiran Fallon and John Carroll, as well as Vince Earle the comedian. The golfing part of the programme takes place at the Palmares and Morgado courses.
Friday, 1/Sep/2006
The biggest date in golf coming up soon is Penina
The biggest date in golf coming up soon is Penina
s 40th anniversary. As most of the golfing cognoscenti know, the Penina Championship course is the Algarves pioneering golf venue and idealised by the legendary Sir Henry Cotton in the late 1960s. The official date of this anniversary and of the famous Penina Hotel is the 5th of November. This date will be preceded by a 36-hole 4-player team tournament, for theHenry Cotton Team Trophyon 27th and 28th of October.
Friday, 1/Sep/2006
On 6th and 7th of November, some local preparatory competitions are being held for the grand final on the 8th to decide the winners of the
On 6th and 7th of November, some local preparatory competitions are being held for the grand final on the 8th to decide the winners of the
2006 Douglas Bader Cup. This tournament is being held under the auspices of theDouglas Bader Foundationfor the 20th successive year. Regional qualifying events were held throughout the UK, and the winning mixed greensome pairs in each of twelve UK regional finals during the summer earned places in the Algarve Grand Final on the Alamos course. Lady Bader OBE, widow of the famous and legendary ace pilot, attended this event last year and it is hoped she will be able to grace the event with her presence once more.
Saturday, 1/Jul/2006
The 54-hole Portuguese PGA event staged at the Morgado course near Portimao was won convincingly by Antonio Sobrinho sponsered by Vale do Lobo with an aggregate of 14 under par 205, nine strokes clear of Nuno Campino (Paco do Lumiar/Callaway). Sobrinho, second in the national Order of Merit behind Jose Filipe Lima, who presently plays on the European Tour. In the opening round he established a new course record of 64 on the par 73 layout and giving him an unassailable lead. Alfonso Mohedano (Andaluzia PGA), was third, followed by Ricardo Santos (Lusotur Golfes), Sean Hawker (Prosecom) and Christian Wesserlund (Quinta da Ria) tied 4th on 2 under par. The Pro-Am was won by Morgado resident pro, Nelson Cavalheiro, partnered by the course golf director Jorge Papa with a score of 64 after a count-back.
The 54-hole Portuguese PGA event staged at the Morgado course near Portimao was won convincingly by Antonio Sobrinho sponsered by Vale do Lobo with an aggregate of 14 under par 205, nine strokes clear of Nuno Campino (Paco do Lumiar/Callaway). Sobrinho, second in the national Order of Merit behind Jose Filipe Lima, who presently plays on the European Tour. In the opening round he established a new course record of 64 on the par 73 layout and giving him an unassailable lead. Alfonso Mohedano (Andaluzia PGA), was third, followed by Ricardo Santos (Lusotur Golfes), Sean Hawker (Prosecom) and Christian Wesserlund (Quinta da Ria) tied 4th on 2 under par. The Pro-Am was won by Morgado resident pro, Nelson Cavalheiro, partnered by the course golf director Jorge Papa with a score of 64 after a count-back.
Saturday, 1/Jul/2006
The Parque da Floresta Resort has already held an enjoyable
The Parque da Floresta Resort has already held an enjoyable
Am-Amcompetition and a Texas Scramble over two days to raise funds for worthy causes. They exceeded their forecast of €50,000 by 20% thanks in part to donations with an auction for valuable prizes and celebrity souvenirs. The monies went to an orphanage in Lagos, the local volunteer fire department and a cardiac defibrillator. The Resort are preparing plans for a second golf course designed by Dave Thomas which will be supported by a hotel.
Saturday, 1/Jul/2006
On 13th-16th July, David Seaman and his many celebrity friends will be taking part in his
On 13th-16th July, David Seaman and his many celebrity friends will be taking part in his
Safe Hands Charity Golf Classicat Parque da Floresta. Together with 22 amateur teams of three golfers they will take part and contribute to theBobby Moore Fundfor bowel cancer research.
Saturday, 1/Jul/2006
Pestana
Pestana
s new Silves course is taking shape fast and is programmed for opening in a few months time. The par-70 layout in a rural area between the towns of Lagoa and Silves has all the promise of a challenging course. Centuries-old olives and other trees, fast and undulating greens and fairways guarded by tricky bunkers will afford a true test of golfing skill for players of all handicap categories.
Thursday, 1/Jun/2006
The Alamos course at Morgado de Reguengo is now in fully playable condition after its completion was seriously hindered firstly by the 2004/5 drought and then some torrential rainfalls last winter. It has several tight fairways, and a number of severely undulating greens that will test the patience of all standards of golfers. One of the first local tournaments to be held on the scenic layout is the 36-hole
The Alamos course at Morgado de Reguengo is now in fully playable condition after its completion was seriously hindered firstly by the 2004/5 drought and then some torrential rainfalls last winter. It has several tight fairways, and a number of severely undulating greens that will test the patience of all standards of golfers. One of the first local tournaments to be held on the scenic layout is the 36-hole
Solverde Algarve Amateur Challengeis taking place on 1st-2nd June, simultaneously with a local PGA event at the Morgado course on the same complex. On 31st May, the amateurs in this Challenge event played in a one-on-one medal play Pro-Am with members of the Portuguese PGA.
Thursday, 1/Jun/2006
In mid-May, the Morgado course also hosted the
In mid-May, the Morgado course also hosted the
Oceanico International Open, a PGA EuroPro tournament with a £75,000 prize fund. Played in beautiful sunny, but somewhat breezy weather - in contrast to the previous wet EuroPro event with gale-force winds on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores archipelago. The title was decided after the 2nd hole of a sudden-death play-off between Adam Frayne (St. Mellion) and Zane Scotland of Woodcote Park, both after finishing on 14-under 205. Aussie Daniel Gaunt almost joined them on that total but scored bogey on the par-4 final hole. After both leaders bogeyed the first play-off hole on the 18th, they returned to the tee but Fraynes 2-putt par was good enough to edge out Scotland who failed to get up and down to keep the contest alive. Local brothers Ricardo and Hugo Santos, graduates of the successful Vilamoura Golf Club junior golf school, came in 9th equal on 8 under par. Ricardo recovered well after a horrendous 9 on the par-5 third to score level par 73 on the opening day, following this with a 67 and 72.
Thursday, 1/Jun/2006
Salgados was the venue of a competition on the 8th APDC (Portuguese Assn. for Communications Development) calendar on 20th May, organised by Sr. Joao Patricio and his team from the publishers of Clubehouse Magazine. Apart from association members and sponsors the field included guests from the host club, the Architect
Salgados was the venue of a competition on the 8th APDC (Portuguese Assn. for Communications Development) calendar on 20th May, organised by Sr. Joao Patricio and his team from the publishers of Clubehouse Magazine. Apart from association members and sponsors the field included guests from the host club, the Architect
s and Barmens golf societies, and the press. Pedro Real scored 40 Stableford points to take the mens net prize, and the ladies was won by Gloria Carr with 33 points. Paul Pingo returned the best gross score of 37 points.
Thursday, 1/Jun/2006
The Penina Championship course staged its annual tournament for the prestigious Sir Henry Cotton Trophy on the final Sunday in May. Local knowledge was obviously the key to winning as club members were well represented in the five leading players. It was the lady captain, Ulla Bischoff, who had her name engraved on the cup by carding a 4-under score of 69. Three strokes behind her were Doug Moody, Pedro Rio and Pim Hirschmann, followed by Peter Hills in 5th place on level-par 73. Prizes for the best ladies and mens gross scores went to Ann Munro (88 strokes) and Steve Juster with a well gained 75.
The Penina Championship course staged its annual tournament for the prestigious Sir Henry Cotton Trophy on the final Sunday in May. Local knowledge was obviously the key to winning as club members were well represented in the five leading players. It was the lady captain, Ulla Bischoff, who had her name engraved on the cup by carding a 4-under score of 69. Three strokes behind her were Doug Moody, Pedro Rio and Pim Hirschmann, followed by Peter Hills in 5th place on level-par 73. Prizes for the best ladies and mens gross scores went to Ann Munro (88 strokes) and Steve Juster with a well gained 75.
Thursday, 1/Jun/2006
The
The
Sir Henry Cooper and Mike Reid Charity Classicwas a special success for 6-handicapper Sion Tudor-Owen this year. Playing in this Penina based event for the sixth time, the well-known TV and film actor was pleased as punch to win the main 54-hole competition leading his Herald Graphics team to victory with a score of 236 Stableford points. Clive Russells Regal Bandits were the runner-up team on 233, closely followed by the Sony 3 team headed by Clive Abbot another shot adrift. The event raised a sizable sum for childrens charities and was played on Sky Sports TV.
Thursday, 1/Jun/2006
On the 10th of June, the Alto Golf will be holding the annual
On the 10th of June, the Alto Golf will be holding the annual
Norman Collisson Trophy Texas Scramblefor teams of eight golfers. This is usually a well-contested tournament where plenty tactics as well as good golf are predominate. The event takes place close to the 15th anniversary of the opening of this course in Alvor.
Thursday, 1/Jun/2006
The Qualifying School for 14 places on the 2007 PGA Seniors Tour will be held once again in the Algarve this year. Quinta de Cima and Pinheiros Altos will host the Stage One qualifiers on the 16-17th November, followed by the 72-hole final at the Vale de Pinta course at the Pestana Golf Resort, Carvoeiro on November the 20th-23rd.
The Qualifying School for 14 places on the 2007 PGA Seniors Tour will be held once again in the Algarve this year. Quinta de Cima and Pinheiros Altos will host the Stage One qualifiers on the 16-17th November, followed by the 72-hole final at the Vale de Pinta course at the Pestana Golf Resort, Carvoeiro on November the 20th-23rd.
Monday, 1/May/2006
After the
After the
Ladies Portuguese Openat Oitavos, Cascais, a Ladies European Tour event, several of the players will once again visit the Algarve to take part in the ACCA Pro-Am on Sunday 25th June, being played for the 6th time. This year it is being staged at the Victoria Course in Vilamoura. ACCA is a locally registered charity forchildren in need, and is open for amateurs of either gender.
Monday, 1/May/2006
It was recently reported by the local tourist and golf authorities that March was an all-time record month for the number of golf rounds played on Algarve courses. The tally came to 126,597 rounds, an 8.3% increase over the equivalent month last year. Vilamoura courses alone registered an increase of 21.7% for March, and even more (25.9%) for the first fortnight in April. This is mainly due to the strong marketing and also as a consequence of having staged the
It was recently reported by the local tourist and golf authorities that March was an all-time record month for the number of golf rounds played on Algarve courses. The tally came to 126,597 rounds, an 8.3% increase over the equivalent month last year. Vilamoura courses alone registered an increase of 21.7% for March, and even more (25.9%) for the first fortnight in April. This is mainly due to the strong marketing and also as a consequence of having staged the
World Cup Championshipat the Victoria Course last November.
Monday, 1/May/2006
In mid-April, the Junior Algarve versus Andalucia match was held on successive days on a home-and-away basis. The format for the 10-player mixed boy and girl teams was match-play with two foursomes and six singles matches, and after the first day at the Vilamoura Millennium course the scores were level on 4 – 4. It seemed that home course advantage would lead to victory for the Spanish youngsters at Isla Canela which is a course in Spain. Incredibly the second days play ended in another tie and the teams were locked on 8 points each. The match was therefore decided by a sudden-death play-off and Joao Carlota for the Algarve team - which incidentally comprised of only juniors from Vilamoura - beat Oliver Ruiz at the first hole.
In mid-April, the Junior Algarve versus Andalucia match was held on successive days on a home-and-away basis. The format for the 10-player mixed boy and girl teams was match-play with two foursomes and six singles matches, and after the first day at the Vilamoura Millennium course the scores were level on 4 – 4. It seemed that home course advantage would lead to victory for the Spanish youngsters at Isla Canela which is a course in Spain. Incredibly the second days play ended in another tie and the teams were locked on 8 points each. The match was therefore decided by a sudden-death play-off and Joao Carlota for the Algarve team - which incidentally comprised of only juniors from Vilamoura - beat Oliver Ruiz at the first hole.
Monday, 1/May/2006
Later in the April another international match between local and Spanish players the visiting players were more successful. During last year’s
Later in the April another international match between local and Spanish players the visiting players were more successful. During last year’s
World Cup Championshipat the Victoria Course, when director Antonio Henriques da Silva was chatting with some media representatives from Spain, he suggested a match between them and their Portuguese counterparts. This led to a match for thePortunol Cup. In the two-day match on Vilamouras Millennium and Victoria courses and the visitors snatched victory by 27 Stableford points (639 to 612) with the best ten scores on each side counting towards the result.
Monday, 1/May/2006
Vila Sol is holding an international Golf Challenge involving a total of 68 qualifying rounds at selected courses in 15 countries in both Europe and North America. The event has the backing of the Tourist Board and other tourist orientated associations and the sponsorship of several private companies. The qualifying competitions started in March and will end in October and the finals will be held on 18th and 19th of November on both the Vila Sol and Victoria courses in Vilamoura.
Vila Sol is holding an international Golf Challenge involving a total of 68 qualifying rounds at selected courses in 15 countries in both Europe and North America. The event has the backing of the Tourist Board and other tourist orientated associations and the sponsorship of several private companies. The qualifying competitions started in March and will end in October and the finals will be held on 18th and 19th of November on both the Vila Sol and Victoria courses in Vilamoura.
Monday, 1/May/2006
From 14th to 19th May, the Penina is hosting the 8th
From 14th to 19th May, the Penina is hosting the 8th
Sir Henry Cooper & Mike Reid Charity Golf Classicwith many sports and entertainment celebrities who play alongside teams of three amateur golfers to raise funds for good causes. The famous celebrates coming this year are: Sir Henry Cooper, Mike Reid, Clive Abbot, Michael Greco, Willie Thorne, Tim Healy, Sion Tudor Owen, Gareth Hunt, Dave Jessup, Dennis Waterman, Kenny Lynch, Berni Flint, Johnny Briggs, PH Moriarty, John Dymond, Stan Boardman, Robert Pugh and Allan Wells. Apart from playing twice on the Penina course, the participants will also have competition rounds at Boavista, San Lorenzo and Palmares. On Sunday the 28th, Penina will also be holding their annualSir Henry Cotton Trophy, a traditional tournament on the Algarve golfing calendar.
Monday, 1/May/2006
PGA Europro Tournamentis being played at the Morgado course near Portimao and this a chance to see some of the budding young guns of the European Tours in action, seeking promotion to next years Challenge Tour or even the main PGA European Tour.
Saturday, 1/Apr/2006
Jean Van de Velde - (France) Madeira Island Open Santo da Serra - Madeira - Portugal - 23rd to 26th March, 2006 Jean Van de Velde from France secured his second European Tour title with a one stroke victory over 2004 Challenge Tour winner Lee Slattery at the Madeira Island Open. Jean Van de Velde moved from Nº 295 to Nº 135 in the Rankings.
Jean Van de Velde - (France) Madeira Island Open Santo da Serra - Madeira - Portugal - 23rd to 26th March, 2006 Jean Van de Velde from France secured his second European Tour title with a one stroke victory over 2004 Challenge Tour winner Lee Slattery at the Madeira Island Open. Jean Van de Velde moved from Nº 295 to Nº 135 in the Rankings.
Saturday, 1/Apr/2006
Paul Broadhurst - (England) Algarve Open de Portugal Penina Golf & Resort - Portimao - Portugal - 30th to 2nd April, 2006 Many golfers will have watched Paul Broadhurst
Paul Broadhurst - (England) Algarve Open de Portugal Penina Golf & Resort - Portimao - Portugal - 30th to 2nd April, 2006 Many golfers will have watched Paul Broadhurst
s successful defense of his last years Portuguese Open title on TV. This was the 10th time it was staged at the Sir Henry Cotton Championship course at Penina, and was also the 50th Portuguese Open. It took place in ideal Algarve weather, with the main difficulty being the rough which had been allowed to grow and causing players to place a premium on precision driving and approach shots. In fact, that proved to be the secret of Paul Broadhursts victory, allied to some inspired putting on the large, immaculate greens. When the long-hitting Argentine, Ricardo Gonzalez snatched a 1-stroke lead after a 3rd round record-equaling 64 to go 13 under par, it seemed that he would follow this up with a win. Especially after Paul Broadhurst, the 18- and 36-hole leader, had stumbled to a double bogey and a bogey birdie finish in his 3rd round. But it was Ricardo Gonzalez who faltered right from the start of the last round with errant driving and failed to find the fairway off the tee on the opening 5 holes which he still covered in level par. Paul Broadhurst picked up 4 birdies over these holes and was only eventually threatened by surges from two other players. The talented Argentine, 24-year-old rookie Andres Romero, who scored 30 for the front nine, and Anthony Wall, who scored 3 birdies in the last 4 holes and carded his 3rd consecutive 67, in spite of having a 10-foot putt on the 17th lip out of the hole. Paul Broadhurst had a few scares with wayward shots over the closing holes, including a tee-shot into the lake on the 185-metre 13th for a double bogey, and a dropped shot on the 17th. In the press interview afterwards Paul Broadhurst admitted he did not know how he stood in the competition until the 18th tee when he learned that he required a birdie on the last hole. He proceeded to achieve this with a chip from the back left of the green and leaving him a virtual tap-in for his 1-stroke victory. As far as local golfers are concerned, only Tiago Cruz who had recently turned Pro, had managed to pass the 36-hole cut and he ended on 2 over par in a tie for 67th place.
Saturday, 1/Apr/2006
At the end of March your golf correspondent made a foray into new golfing territory in Portugal, away from the Algarve to accompany a group of European Golf Writers on tour. Organised by Esay Golf Management, a joint-venture firm between the Portuguese Grupo Espírito Santo (GES) and Aymerich, a Spanish golf course owner and Management Company. GES amongst other things also own the well-known Tivoli Hotel chain in Portugal. The six-day excursion commenced at the Tivoli Almansor Hotel in the Algarve and the group of almost thirty golf writers from several European countries were invited to play 9 holes at the Morgado de Reguengo course and view the new Golfe dos Alamos layout alongside which will be officially opened this June. The visitors
At the end of March your golf correspondent made a foray into new golfing territory in Portugal, away from the Algarve to accompany a group of European Golf Writers on tour. Organised by Esay Golf Management, a joint-venture firm between the Portuguese Grupo Espírito Santo (GES) and Aymerich, a Spanish golf course owner and Management Company. GES amongst other things also own the well-known Tivoli Hotel chain in Portugal. The six-day excursion commenced at the Tivoli Almansor Hotel in the Algarve and the group of almost thirty golf writers from several European countries were invited to play 9 holes at the Morgado de Reguengo course and view the new Golfe dos Alamos layout alongside which will be officially opened this June. The visitors
next stop was at Vimeiro on Portugals west coast, about 60 kms northwest of Lisbon. The Tivoli Golf Mar Hotel with its spa, towers over the western coastline and inland it overlooks a short holiday type 9-hole course as well as horse-riding and facilities. A new 18-hole course is being planned for the future for this attractive location.
Saturday, 1/Apr/2006
The Ribagolfe I & II plus Santo Estevao (a Donald Steel design), courses which all opened in 2004. All three are beautifully laid out in gently undulating terrain of the northern Alentejo and covered mainly by mature cork oaks. Ribagolfe I, designed by Peter Townsend, is a particularly challenging course although the others hopefully can be rated close behind.
The Ribagolfe I & II plus Santo Estevao (a Donald Steel design), courses which all opened in 2004. All three are beautifully laid out in gently undulating terrain of the northern Alentejo and covered mainly by mature cork oaks. Ribagolfe I, designed by Peter Townsend, is a particularly challenging course although the others hopefully can be rated close behind.
Wednesday, 1/Mar/2006
During the 29th Almond Blossom Tournament week the weather was ideal for golf apart from a one-hour delay on the second day due to frost, The main winners were: Individual Stableford: Ladies – Kornelia Troyer (31 points); Men – David Minns (38) after a count-back from Terence McManus. Solverde Casinos Trophy: Pairs, Better-ball Stableford – 1st, Barry Milner & William Spearing (41 pts.); 2nd, Jack Walters & Oliver Snushull (39); 3rd, Peter Pihlgren & Christer Cajander (38). Oceanico Developments Trophy: Pairs, Aggregate Stableford – 1st, Jose Custodio & Johannes Zegers (68 ps.); 2nd, Lars Enstrom & Svante Odman (65); 3rd, Candido de Oliveira Sr. & Jr. (65). Palmares Golf Trophy: Individual Medal Play – Overall (Net), David Minns (67 strokes); Gross, Jose Custodio (79); Ladies - Net, Kornelia Troyer (78); Men – 1st H
During the 29th Almond Blossom Tournament week the weather was ideal for golf apart from a one-hour delay on the second day due to frost, The main winners were: Individual Stableford: Ladies – Kornelia Troyer (31 points); Men – David Minns (38) after a count-back from Terence McManus. Solverde Casinos Trophy: Pairs, Better-ball Stableford – 1st, Barry Milner & William Spearing (41 pts.); 2nd, Jack Walters & Oliver Snushull (39); 3rd, Peter Pihlgren & Christer Cajander (38). Oceanico Developments Trophy: Pairs, Aggregate Stableford – 1st, Jose Custodio & Johannes Zegers (68 ps.); 2nd, Lars Enstrom & Svante Odman (65); 3rd, Candido de Oliveira Sr. & Jr. (65). Palmares Golf Trophy: Individual Medal Play – Overall (Net), David Minns (67 strokes); Gross, Jose Custodio (79); Ladies - Net, Kornelia Troyer (78); Men – 1st H
cap Division, Alan Perry (74 net), and 2nd Hcap Division, C. Pinto Coelho (71 net).
Wednesday, 1/Mar/2006
The Portuguese President, Jorge Sampaio, attended the launch of a book on the Algarve World Cup edited by Lusotur Golfes S.A., held at Belas Clube de Campo. This occurred on the same day that the inaugural
The Portuguese President, Jorge Sampaio, attended the launch of a book on the Algarve World Cup edited by Lusotur Golfes S.A., held at Belas Clube de Campo. This occurred on the same day that the inaugural
Jorge Sampaio Cupwas played for at this same Lisbon golf course. The amply illustrated book is accompanied by a DVD with excerpts of the World Cup of Golf held last November at the Victoria course in Vilamoura where the Welsh duo of Dredge and Dodds dramatically snatched victory from the Swedish and English teams in the 54-hole weather shortened event. The Belas Course was also the setting for the launch of another book documenting thePresidente da Republica Cup, held from 2000 to 2005.
Wednesday, 1/Mar/2006
The well-organized 4-day Divot Tournament took place at the Palmares course with a daily field of about 40 players. Three different competitions were held, the main one being a 36-hole individual Stableford for the Divot Trophy. In the opening Texas Scramble, the team comprising of Janet Kaye, David Minns, Ken Harvey and former Portuguese international footballer Amilcar Fonseca took the top prize. The Better Ball pairs Stableford was won by Sue Dicken and Dennis Martin, whilst the Divot Trophy went to Stuart Buckley who is a recent arrival in the Algarve. Tony Seal and Jeff Hardman followed closely behind.
The well-organized 4-day Divot Tournament took place at the Palmares course with a daily field of about 40 players. Three different competitions were held, the main one being a 36-hole individual Stableford for the Divot Trophy. In the opening Texas Scramble, the team comprising of Janet Kaye, David Minns, Ken Harvey and former Portuguese international footballer Amilcar Fonseca took the top prize. The Better Ball pairs Stableford was won by Sue Dicken and Dennis Martin, whilst the Divot Trophy went to Stuart Buckley who is a recent arrival in the Algarve. Tony Seal and Jeff Hardman followed closely behind.
Wednesday, 1/Mar/2006
The next big upcoming attraction golf-wise is the
The next big upcoming attraction golf-wise is the
Portuguese Openthat returns to Sir Henry Cottons Championship course at Penina (March 30 to April 2). The winner of this important competition when last held at the Penina was Miguel Angel Jimenez from Spain and nicknamedThe Mechanic. Since he now actively plays most of his golf on the USPGA Tour it is unlikely that he will be back to defend his title. The surprise winner last year of thePortuguese Openwhich was staged on the Oitavos course near Cascais was Paul Broadhurst. He won his title after several players ruined their last round cards on the few closing holes. We anticipate some big names taking part at the Penina this year as the need for Ryder Cup points becomes more pressing.
Wednesday, 1/Feb/2006
For the second time in six years the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) nominated the Algarve as the best established golf destination, one of its most prestigious awards. Regardless of a lack of rain during the autumn, there was an upturn in business and the courses announced a total of almost one million rounds of golf played. December and January are normally slow months due to the Christmas season but a reasonable numbers of golfers visit to take advantage of the emptier courses. Also, during the while year there are a number of tournaments held for both local and visiting players. One of these is the annual visit of the
For the second time in six years the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) nominated the Algarve as the best established golf destination, one of its most prestigious awards. Regardless of a lack of rain during the autumn, there was an upturn in business and the courses announced a total of almost one million rounds of golf played. December and January are normally slow months due to the Christmas season but a reasonable numbers of golfers visit to take advantage of the emptier courses. Also, during the while year there are a number of tournaments held for both local and visiting players. One of these is the annual visit of the
UK Barmens Guildgolfers who played together with their Portuguese counterparts during the second week of the year. A well-established group of golfers which celebrated their 25th annual visit to Vilamoura is theSussex Professional Golf Union, comprising about 200 businessmen composed of executives as well as Pro golfers. During this years visit they played all five of the Vilamoura courses. TheVale do Lobo Golf Weekis another popular Amateur Tournament in mid-January attracting many visitors as well as the resident golfers of the Algarve.
Wednesday, 1/Feb/2006
In December, Lusotur Golfes, held their flagship medal-play tournament
In December, Lusotur Golfes, held their flagship medal-play tournament
Grande Trofeuwhich was played for the 18th time and this year on the Millennium, Pinhal and the Old Course courses. A total of 285 players representing many countries took part. Including were 44 ladies, with all golfers of each gender split into four handicap sections. Prizes were awarded for the three best net scores and the best gross score in each section, in addition to the best overall net and gross scores. A special prize was awarded to Stuart Symmons who scored a stunning hole-in-one on the 157 metre long 3rd hole of the Millennium course.
Wednesday, 1/Feb/2006
The last qualifying event for the finals of the 15th
The last qualifying event for the finals of the 15th
Golfe & Comunicacao Tourtook place on the sister courses near Tavira, the Quinta da Ria and Quinta de Cima. Two well-known Portuguese personalities were in the field, Joao de Deus Pinheiro (former Foreign Minister and European Commissioner), and General Vasco Rocha Vieira, an ex-Governor of Macau. Both claimed prizes for their efforts, Joao Pinheiro taking 2nd place in the 2nd Handicap section, and General Vieira who gained the best net score for the Seniors. The winners in each section qualified for the finals which will be held in China later in this year.
Wednesday, 1/Feb/2006
During the last week in January, the 14th
During the last week in January, the 14th
International Senior Amateur Ladiesgolf competition was held on the top two Vilamoura golf venues, the Victoria and the Old Course. About 200 Senior Amateur ladies from 14 European countries played in the 3-day event consisting of an 18-hole Better-Ball tournament followed by the main Single Medal-Play. Cecilia Mourgue dAlgue, winner of the lowest handicap division, retained the gross title she has previously conquered in 2005. The respective gross winners in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th divisions were: Bebe Cabral (Portugal), Manoli Zaspe and Brownen Denza.
Wednesday, 1/Feb/2006
The 9th annual
The 9th annual
Charity Golf Tournament, now a respected and traditional part of the golfing calendar was held on the Victoria course at the end of January. Due to renovation work at the venue, the traditional gala fund-raising dinner was postponed until later to take place in June. The Tournament was held with a field of 108 golfers and the event raised 9,350 Euros for the four charities designated for 2006. This popular event was heavily sponsored by dozens of local and not so local businesses. The main winners of the golf tournament were: 1st – Colin Watts and Colin Whittingham; 2nd - Willie Scott and Alfredo Germano; and 3rd – Oliver Hart and Sebastian Keeping.