LUXURY SOUVENIR EDITION VOLUME 6 EDITION 4 THE FINEST A SOUVENIR GUIDE TO THE TOP THREE GOLF EVENTS IN SCANDINAVIA DELIVERING EXCELLENCE SINCE 1999 2015 VINTAGE Ladies European Tour highlight McIlroy: the best of my generation? MADE IN DENMARK
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LUXURY SOUVENIR EDITION VOLUME 6 EDITION 4
THE FINESTA SOUVENIR GUIDE TO THE TOP THREE GOLF EVENTS IN SCANDINAVIA
DELIVERING EXCELLENCE SINCE 1999 2015 VINTAGE
Ladies European Tour highlightMcIlroy: the best
of my generation?MADE INDENMARK
8 Editors Introduction
10 Nordea Masters Foreword A foreword from the PGA National for the Nordea event
12 Made In Denmark ForewordA foreword from the Himmerland GC.
14 Helsingborg Open ForewordA foreword from Vasatorps GC to the Helsingborg Open
36 PGA National - Sweden. ,
44 Denmark’s Himmerland GCsuperb, spectacular and amazing golf club!
48 Vasatorps GC -the very, very special GC
76 Great Clubs in Scandinavia - must visit - world classvenues
154 Nordqvist’s FEDEX Trophy smash…
172 Nextjet - Shrinking Sweden. Effortlessly :-)
CONTENTSpremiumTHE FINEST
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WThe Finest Scandinavia
FROM THE EDITOR
Scandinavia retains its culture, personality and warmth of welcomeand adds a year’s more experience this time around - the things that makeScandinavian golf so memorable and unique just got better.
I hope you enjoy the events themselves, this book and the great clubsand experiences we present. Go and visit the clubs and let me know what youthink. The events are listed in chronological order so enjoy all three!
Dr James Gunn: Editor
elcome to the Finest Scandinavia - Event Special. Scandinavia and golf are becoming synonymous with style,challenge and an abundance of world class golf courses and clubs. Perhaps the highlight and pinnacle of golfin this region are the three top European Golf and ladies Tour Golf events, namely, the Nordea Masters, Madein Denmark and the superb Helsingborg Open.Make no mistake - these are three of the best golf events to be enjoyed anywhere and are all widelyanticipated by golfers and golf fans across the world. All three events boast enormous fan bases and areattended to the brim with local fans and well travelled golf connoisseurs alike.
Coming off the back of our recent ‘Finest Golf Scandinavian Special’ which has this far received in excess of500,000 readers, downloads, impressions and printed copies, this series of publications will be thecornerstone and hand book both to the attending masses and golf fans who enjoy Scandinavia golf.
Once again, in addition to enjoying these three awesome events, we decided to raise the bar and ourlevel of expectation to present the best golf in Scandinavia We have been supported and assisted by the greatclubs we feature as well as the National Golf Unions and Federations who know a thing or two about theirown strengths and weaknesses. This is a golfers book, for and by golfers. We hope you enjoy this edition andit helps you select the very best golf and travel experiences available in this wonderful part of the world. Ifyou have downloaded this publication at one of the events, please enjoy it on your smart devices (withoutforgetting you are at a LIVE event and being considerate to your fellow attendees).
Nordic Events Special
Our thanks to,
Sweden Golf
Danish Golf Union
Finland Golf
Iceland Golf
NORDEA MASTERS
A warm WelcomeTo the Nordea Masters
On behalf of the PGA National of Sweden andthe Nordea Masters Tournament, our thanks toall those who attended this summers spectacularevent from the 4th June - 7th June.
This years event was played at the highest leveland one which The PGA National of Swedenprepared and ensured the very best preparationsand quality of course was available allowing thegreat players to perform at the highest level.
For those who watched at home, we hope youenjoyed the class, quality and challenge of thegolf. For those fortunate enough to have hadtickets - we trust you enjoyed the superbhospitality and quality of service provided andwill return again soon.
Have a wonderful year’s golf and best of luck toyou all.
MADE IN DENMARK
Himmerland successfully hosts one ofthe European Tour’s great new events
After last years spectacularly successful and enjoyable Made In Denmark European Tour tournament,2015 saw the second event take place at the beautiful and superbly challenging Himmerland Golf andSpa Resort.
Himmerland excelled in hosting the event for the second successive year to great acclaim from thehundreds of thousands who attended, the players who made such a memorable and world class eventthrough to the countless millions who enjoyed the golf at home on TV.
A world class line up of many of the best professional golfers on the planet entertained the hundreds ofthousands of avid golf fans from the 20th - 23rd August 2015 until David Horsey took the 2015 honoursat a sunny Himmerland.
We hope you enjoyed the service, surroundings, quality of the resort as well as one of the best golfevents and tournaments anywhere and look forward to welcoming you in 2016 for the tournament or toHimmerland for an enjoyable get away!
20-23rd August 2015
the European Tour’s great new events
H E L S I N G B O R G O P E N
A Welcome to Vasatorp
Helsingborg Open
3-6th September 2015www.helsingborgopen.com/www.vasatorpsgk.se/
Marc Potter, CEO Vasatorps Golf Club
A welcome to VasatorpVasatorps Golf Club has a strong history of delivering first class events and its champions rollincludes major winners such as Seve Ballesteros, Sandy Lyle, Greg Norman and AnnikaSörenstam.
In a new era of the game, Vasatorps Golf Club is proud to host the Helsingborg Open for thethird consecutive year. An event now recognised as one of the leading and favouredtournaments on the Ladies European Tour.
At last year’s memorable event, Holland's Dewi Claire Schreefel secured her first win on theLadies European Tour with a commanding victory. Schreefel led from start to finish and savedher best round of the week until last, a closing 66 giving her a 17-under-par total of 271 and aseven-shot win over defending champion Rebecca Artis.
Recently inducted World Golf Hall of Famer, Laura Davies finished a shot behind Artis inthird after a closing 66 which featured eagles on the third and sixth. All three women as well asmany of the world’s top lady golfers will contest this year’s event which promises to be one ofthe closest and most competitive on the Ladies tour.
A true celebration of golf and excellence which highlighted perfectly the challenge anddemands unique to Vasatorps Golf Club’s Tournament Course and also the superb level of theLadies game today.
The Tournament Course is in pristine condition and promises to provide a uniquely difficultand treasured event and we at Vasatorp will provide the warmest welcome with unrivalledcharm, facilities and quality to compliment one of the world’s top Golf events.Enjoy the beautiful scenery, surroundings and hospitality we offer at Vasatorp and indulge inthe magnificent golf of the Helsingborg Open 2015.
Sincerely
Marc L. PotterCEOVasatorps Golf Club
D U M M Y CD U M M Y C
Thongchai Jaidee overcame Victor Dubuissonand Stephen Gallacher in a play-off to seal adramatic victory at the Nordea Masters.The Thai carded a closing 65 at PGA SwedenNational, where a host of players – includingWorld Number Two Henrik Stenson – sawtheir chances of victory come and go.Having set the clubhouse mark at 16 underpar, Jaidee then had to wait as the last fourgroups made their way down the par five last– with only Dubuisson and Gallacher able toreach his score.On the first trip back down the 18th, Jaideespun his third shot to three feet and, afterseeing Dubuisson and Gallacher miss lengthybirdie putts, converted to seal a sixth Europe-an Tour title.“I worked hard today,” said Jaidee. “I startedwith three birdies in a row, had another oneon six, then a good comeback on 11 [where hemade an eagle three].“We were nervous the last few holes - 16, 17and 18 are tough holes – but 16 under wasgood enough for a play-off.“The golf course is wide open, you have to hitgood golf shots and the weather helped alittle bit.”France’s Dubuisson would have won with abirdie on 18 in regulation play, but three-putt-ed from just off the green.Gallacher’s chance looked to have gone whenhe bogeyed the 17th from a greenside bunker,but he bravely converted from 20 feet at thenext.
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S TM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S TNORDEA MASTERS
THE NORDEA MASTERS 2014
A glance back to the 2014 event in preparation for this years extravaganza!Rewind twelve months to 2014 ‘s event at the PGA National. By PeterAllinson
Stenson, playing in the final group withEddie Pepperell, needed an eagle to winhis national title for the first time, butpushed his second into trouble right of thegreen and eventually bogeyed.“It was a disappointing last day,” theSwede, who lost a play-off for this event in2005, said of his 71. “Apart from the firsthole I got off to a good start and made acouple of birdies, but the bogey on thesixth was a momentum killer.“It was one of those days when I didn’tquite get it going and missed a few chanc-es and a couple of bogeys slipped onto thecard too easily. You can’t afford that if youare going to win the tournament.“I was still fighting and in with a chance onthe last, but I just missed it in the wrongplace. It left me in a bad spot.“It would have been nice to win in front ofhome fans, but there will be more chancesand there will be more chances to winother golf tournaments, so you can’t betoo disappointed.”Dutchman Robert-Jan Derksen matchedJaidee’s 65 to take fourth on 15 under,with Stenson alone in fifth and Pepperellsharing sixth with Spain’s Alvaro Quirosand another local favourite in RobertKarlsson – whose 63 was the best round ofthe week.Earlier Jaidee had followed his openinghat-trick of gains with a birdie form closerange at the sixth.
His only dropped shot of the day came at theseventh, but a lengthy eagle putt on the 11thwas followed by birdies on the 14th and 15th- not that the former paratrooper felt he haddone enough coming down the stretch.“I thought 16 under would be second or thirdwith the last hole being a par five,” he added.“Then you never know in a play-off. A play-offwas good for me as I finished early so I wasvery lucky.”Asked about his tactics in the play-off, he con-tinued: “I had a good drive, then I knew Icouldn’t get reach the green. I played a greatshot as I knew the pin was very tough, so Iplayed the hole really well.”Gallacher, whose missed birdie putt in theplay-off was similar to the one he had made atthe same hole 30 minutes earlier, was stillpleased with his week’s work despite failing toadd to his win in Dubai earlier this year.“I had a good week and I was delighted to getinto the play-off,” he said.
“I holed a lovely putt on the last after lippingout on both 16 and 17. Jaidee just hit a lovelyshot there, or lovely three shots, on the last,which was playing really tough.
“I was hoping to peak for a couple of weeks. Iknew I was playing well, so to finish fifth andthen second is not bad. I’m delighted with that.
“Play-offs are fine margins. My ball got up tofour foot from the hole and then spun back. Ifthe wind drops a bit instead of gusting and I’mstone dead. Play-off golf, you need that bit ofluck, but the putt to get into the play-off wasgreat.”
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
Above & Below :
Thongchai Jaidee
NORDEA MASTERS
First played: 1991Most wins: 3 - Colin Montgomerie, 1991, 1999 and 2001,
3 - Lee Westwood, 1996, 2000 and 2012
Youngest winner: Graeme McDowell, 23 years and 5 days, 2002Oldest winner: Thongachi Jaidee, 44 years and 205 days, 2014Lowest 18 hole score: 61 (-11), Fred Couples, 1991Lowest first 18 hole score: 63 (-9), Lee Westwood, 2000, Anthony Wall, 2001, 63 (-8), Marc Cayeux, 2005Lowest first 36 hole score: 129 (-13), Bradley Dredge, 2005Lowest first 54 hole score: 195 (-18), Barry Lane, Bradley Dredge, 2005Lowest 72 hole score: 262 (-22), Mark Hensby, Henrik Stenson, 2005Lowest under par winning score: 262 (-22), Mark Hensby, 2005Lowest final round by a winner: 64 (-8), Vijay Singh, 1994Wire-to-wire-winners: Peter Baker, 1993, Lee Westwood, 2000, Peter Hanson, 2008, Alex Noren, 2011Largest 18 hole lead: 3 shots, Anthony Wall, 2001Largest 36 hole lead: 3 shots, Thomas Bjørn, 1996, Nick Dougherty, 2003, Alex Noren, 2011,
Lee Westwood, 2012Largest 54 hole lead: 11 shots, Alex Noren, 2011Largest winning margin: 9 shots, Colin Montgomerie, 1999Biggest final round 4 shots: Colin Montgomerie, 1991, Thongchai Jaidee, 2014Play-offs: Peter Baker beat Anders Forsbrand, 1993 Lee Westwood beat Paul Broadhurst and Russell Claydon, 1996 Mark Hensby beat Henrik Stenson, 2005 Marc Warren beat Robert Karlsson, 2006 Thongchai Jaidee beat Victor Dubuisson and Stephen Gallacher, 2014Holes-in-one: Masahiro Kuramoto, 17th hole, round 2, (Drottningholm), 1991 Philip Walton, 8th hole, round 4, (Barsebäck), 1992 Patrik Sjöland, 8th hole, round 1, (Barsebäck), 1999 Maarten Lafeber, hole 4, round 3, (Kungsängen), 2002 Peter Hanson, hole 15, round 2, (Barsebäck), 2004 Martin Maritz, hole 6, round 2, (Kungsängen), 2005 Robert Karlsson (AM), hole 4, round 4 (Bro Hof Slott), 2012 Andrew Dodt, hole 7, round 2 (Bro Hof Slott), 2013 Andrew Dodt, hole 11, round 2 (Bro Hof Slott), 2013 José Maria Olazábal, hole 16, round 4 (Bro Hof Slott), 2013
Albatrosses: Lloyd Saltman, hole 12, round 2 (Bro Hoff Slott) 2012Low cut: 138 (-4), 2005High cut: 148 (+4), (par 72), 1996, 148 (+2) (par 73), 2009
NORDEA MASTERS
NORDEA MASTERS FACTS & FIGURES
NORDEA MASTERS HISTORY
NORDEA MASTERS
Scandinavian masters1991 Colin Montgomery 270 (-18)1992 Nick Faldo 277 (-11)1993 Peter Baker 278 (-10) - Play off1994 Vijay Singh 268 (-20)
Volvo Scandinavian Masters1995 Jesper Parnevik 270 (−18)1996 Lee Westwood 281 (−7) - Play off1997 Joakim Haeggman 270 (−18)1998 Jesper Parnevik (2) 273 (−11)1999 Colin Montgomerie (2) 268 (−20)2000 Lee Westwood (2) 270 (−14)2001 Colin Montgomerie (3) 274 (−14)2002 Graeme McDowell 270 (−14)
Scandinavian Masters - Carlsberg2003 Adam Scott 277 (−11)2004 Luke Donald 272 (−16)2005 Mark Hensby 262 (−22)PO
Entercard Scandinavian Masters2006 Mark Warren 278 (-10) - Play off
Scandinavian masters2007 Mikko Ilonen 274 (-6)
SAS Masters2008 Peter Hanson 271 (−9)2009 Ricardo Gonzalez’ 282 (-10)
Nordea Masters2010 Richard S. Johnson 277 (−11)2011 Alexander Norén 273 (−15)20122012 Lee Westwood (3) 269 (−19)2013 Mikko Ilonen (2) 267 (−21)2014 Thongchai Jaidee 272 (−16) - Play off2015 Alex Noren 276 (-12)
M A D E I N D E N M A R K
MADE IN DENMARK 2015
David Horsey overcame a nervy final round to clinch thefourth European Tour title of his career with a wire-to-wire win at the Made In Denmark.Horsey failed to build on an early birdie and kept thechasing pack interested with dropped shots at theseventh, 14th and 16th holes, but a two-over 73 wasenough to claim a two-shot victory as his closestovernight challengers faded down the stretch.The early stages of the final day at Himmerland weredominated by Kristoffer Broberg, who was languishing in52nd place after 54 holes before making giant strides upthe leaderboard with a run of five birdies in six holes inan outward 31. The Swede picked up further shots at 10and 11, and further birdies at the 14th and 16th saw himpost a sparkling 62 - the low round of the tournament -and gave him the clubhouse lead on 11 under par.Daniel Gaunt closed with a 66 to join Broberg on the samescore, while Soren Kjeldsen maintained his chances ofcelebrating his 500th European Tour start with a win as hemade four birdies in five holes either side of a bogey atthe fifth. The home favourite was just one off the leadwhen he birdied 13 and Horsey bogeyed 14, but the Danemissed a huge chance to pile the pressure on the long-time leader when his three-foot par putt on the last greenlipped out on the left.
Kjeldsen's 68 earned him a share of the clubhouse lead,but his final-hole lapse gave Horsey the luxury of a two-stroke advantage coming down the last, which lookedlikely to be a crucial buffer when he tugged his drive intothick rough on the left.But the Englishman made great connection despite ahanging lie and managed to forced his ball onto thefront-left portion of the green, from where he safelytwo-putted for par to land the winner's prize of250,000euros.
"It feels fantastic," said Horsey afterwards. "It's startingto sink in now. Coming down those last few holes I wasvery much in my own zone just trying to focus on myself.It probably helped that there weren't many leaderboardsout there. "The crowds were unbelievable. We havegood fans in the UK, but the fans here are just fantastic.They are so loud. To get clapped in on all the greens likewe did was amazing. "As I was standing over that shotinto 18, I knew I was two ahead, but I knew Terry couldmake birdie and get to 12 under, and when he hit it into20 feet that sort of made my mind up. I only had 160 tothe flag and I knew anywhere left was fine. I hit seven,making sure I kept it left, and it came out perfectly."
David Horsey overcomes nerves to win the 2015 Made in Denmark Event - Peter Allinson
M A D E I N D E N M A R K
Australian veteran Terry Pilkadaris had started theday just a shot behind Horsey, and he vaulted intothe outright lead when he birdied the second andsixth to get to 16 under.But he slipped up with back-to-back bogeys at eightand nine, and he dropped another shot at 14 beforetaking himself out of contention when he was forcedto take a drop from the deep rough beyond the 15thgreen and ran up a double-bogey six.Pilkadaris hadto settle for a 74 and a share of second, while BradleyDredge was a shot further back after he offset fivebirdies with four bogeys - including one at the last -in a closing 70. The Welshman did at least provideone of the highlights of the day when he cameagonisingly close to a hole-in-one in front of the vastcrowds surrounding the short 16th green, his ballpitching 15 feet beyond the pin and spinning backbefore coming to rest just an inch from the cup.Dredge shared sixth with Paul Lawrie, who recoveredfrom a double-bogey at the first to post a 69, whileMads Sogaard and Richard Green also finished on 10under, with John Parry completing the top 10 aftera double-bogey at the last in a 73.ile Bradley Dredge was a shot further back after heoffset five birdies with four bogeys - including oneat the last - in a closing 70.
M A D E I N D E N M A R K
Right: DavidHorsey holding theTrophy
Right: Soren Kjeldsen
missed a short putt at
the last, but he
finished tied for
second in his 500th
European Tour start
.
Left: The crowdshave been out inforce again thisyear.
H E L S I N G B O R G O P E N
Dewi Claire Schreefel secured her first win on theLadies European Tour as she raced seven strokesclear of Rebecca Artis at the Helsingborg Open inSweden.She comfortably kept the lead that she had heldfrom the first round, saving the best until last. Withrounds of 68, 70, 68 and 66, she ended on a total of271, 17 under par at Vasatorps Golfklubb.The 28-year-old from Alkmaar in Netherlands start-ed the day two strokes ahead of the 2013 tourna-ment champion Artis and set her goal at 15 under.In the final round, Schreefel bogeyed the fourth butfound her groove with three straight birdies fromthe fifth hole, gaining a five stroke advantage untilArtis birdied the eighth and both players then bo-geyed the ninth hole.Artis continued to chase with three straight birdiesfrom the 10th and another on 14, but Schreefelmatched them with birdies on 10, 12, 14 and 15.After Artis bogeyed 16, Schreefel was five strokesahead before a two shot swing on the last holewhich Artis bogeyed and Schreefel birdied.“It’s a good way to win. Rebecca had a good chaseon and I was glad to be playing well to keep up withher and I can’t find a better way to win that this,”said Schreefel, who turned professional in 2008 andwon her first pro title at the 2009 New England GolfClassic in her rookie season on the US Futures Tour.
HELSINGBORG OPEN 2014
“I’ve been a pro for five years and every year has gotbetter but I felt like this year it was going to come. Allthe elements came together,” said the Dutch profes-sional, whose previous best finish on the Ladies Eu-ropean Tour was second at the 2012 Omega DubaiLadies Masters and who holds full playing status onthe LPGA. Schreefel may have had a stranglehold onthe tournament from day one, but Artis produced aperformance to remember. With rounds of 69, 70,68 and 71, she ended in solo second on 10-under-par. “I chased late in the back nine, birdied 10, 11, 12and 14 but she was matching me, so there was notmuch I could do about it,” said the 25-year-old Aus-tralian. “I probably didn’t play my best golf on thefront nine; I needed to get it going early and makesome birdies early and put pressure on her and Ididn’t do that. I turned one over through nine and Imade a bit of flurry on the back nine and a charge butevery time I made a birdie she matched me. I playedpretty good golf out there today and was happy withmy effort and what can I say? Second when I comeback to defend: I’m happy with that.”Dame Laura Davies finished a stroke further behindin third place after a final round 66, which includedtwo eagles and two bogeys on the front nine andfour birdies on the back. “A 67 for a top five waswhat we were looking at, so a 66 for a top three isobviously a bonus,” said Davies, who flew out of theblocks with eagles on the third and sixth holes.
The Superb Helsingborg Open Event at Vasatorp - 2014 - Peter Allinson
H E L S I N G B O R G O P E N
“I was just short of the third in two and had 40 yards and hit a little pitch, checked upand it ran right up in the middle, so that was nice,” she continued. “Number six, justpulled a five-iron into the greenside bunker but it was an easy bunker shot, flopped itout and it just went in like a putt again.“The British Open was more important in that it got me into a lot of stuff in Americabut a top three is better than a top nine. I don’t judge tournaments by money orprestige: if you play well on the week, top three is a great finish so this is a big weekfor me.”Frenchwoman Valentine Derrey ended fourth on six under par, with England’s Felici-ty Johnson and Line Vedel of Denmark a stroke behind in a tie for fifth.Johnson won a VW Golf Sport Combi car as the first professional to ace the 17thfrom 145 yards using an 8-iron and she said: “This is my third hole in one. I had oneat home when I was 10, one in a practice round in Sweden in 2008 and this is mythird today. This is the first important one.“The pin was in the middle of the back tier so I knew that we didn’t want to go pastthe flag and I knew 8-iron wasn’t bringing the back into play. There was very littlewind and what there was, was just off the left. It was pretty calm so I hit a really solid8-iron, probably one of the best strikes of the week.”
Scandinavian Masters was first played in 1991 and has quickly established itself as one of the most prestigious competitions on the PGAEuropean Tour. Scandinavian Masters was created by a merger between two former professional competitions – Scandinavian Enter-prise Open (SEO) and PLM Open.
Today, the competition is called Nordea Masters and is has one of the largest audiences of all the 50 contests on the European Golf Tour.It is only the 139-year-old British Open that attracts more spectators.During the competition, Stenson managed to stand the pressure and went out in the lead ball on the last day. Unfortunately, he didn’tlast all the way. Tongchai Jaidee won after a playoff with Victor Dubuisson and Stephen Gallagher. Stenson finished in fifth place and stillhas to wait for his first Nordea Masters-victory.
The first Scandinavian Masters was played at Drottningholm Golf Club outside of Stockholm and the winner was Colin Montgomerie. hevictory was also Montgomerie’s first big step on his way to world fame.
The event was hosted by Barsebäck Golf & Country Club. The competition was a success, both in terms of a sports event and a publicevent. More than 80,000 spectators camE to see former number one Nick Faldo win the game.
1993’s competition, at Forsgårdens Golfklubb in Kungsbacka south of Gothenburg, was marred by persistent rain. But it didn’t preventthe attendance record from being beaten. As a sports event, the contest was a cliffhanger and a playoff was needed to determine thewinner. Anders Forsbrand became the first Swedish winner, beating Brit Peter Baker.
In glorious Swedish midsummer it was again time for Drottningholm to welcome the Scandinavian Masters’ stars. With temperaturesconstantly over 30 degrees everyone enjoyed the heat. Vijay Singh from Fiji, with a magnificent final round triumphed.
Hosted at Barsebäck with more than 120,000 spectators, Jesper Parnevik managed to play almost perfectly and secure a 5-point victoryover Europe’s number one Colin Montgomerie. John Daly also starred after winning the British Open.
The 1996-year’s contest at Forsgården was contested by three Brits in a truly thrilling playoff. Lee Westwood, (then a talented 23-year-old) finally defeated his compatriots Russell Claydon and Paul Broadhurst.
The 1997-year’s contest was much alike the one in 1995. Again Barsebäck was the venue and the public got to pay tribute to a popularSwedish winner‐ Joakim Haeggman, who just like Jesper Parnevik in 1995 entered the 72ⁿ and final tee as unchallenged leader.
The PGA European Tour Course in Kungsängen hosted the 97’ event. For the third time in four years a Swedish player won theScandinavian Masters, when Jesper Parnevik became the first two time winner beating Darren Clarke.
In 1999, Jesper Parnevik was defeated by Colin Montgomerie was superior in almost every respect. The Scot won by nine shots overParnevik, making this his second victory at the Scandinavian Masters.
In 2000, the contest was played at Kungsängen once again and won by Lee Westwood.
Colin Montgomerie took the victory in ‘01, beating the unfortunate Peter Hedblom who suffered a triple bogey on the final hole.
Greame McDowell won his first victory on the European Tour, winning the 2002 event in style.
Adam Scott led the young brigade, winning the 2003 event and continuing a fine career in the world’s elite.
Another talent presented himself in the form of Luke Donald from England. The Swedes Peter Hanson and Henrik Stenson sharedsecond place but were never really close to pinching the victory during the final round in the 2004 event.
The contest was played at Kungsängens GC. It was marred by heavy rain and after a playoff against Henrik Stenson, Mark Hensbymanaged to take home the victory.
THE NORDEA MASTERS HISTORY
NORDEA MASTERS
199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005
NORDEA MASTERS
In 2006, the competition returned to Barsebäck G&CC attracting 100,000 spectators. Home favourites, Henrik Stenson, Jesper Parnevik,Carl Pettersson and Fredrik Jacobsson failed to meet the expectations. The competition was exciting all the way till the end whenRobert Karlsson fell on the finish line and was caught up by Marc Warren, who after a playoff took his first victory on the EuropeanTour.
First year at Arlandastad Golf. In front of crowded terraces on the 18th hole, the German Martin Kaymer finally lost to Mikko Ilonenfrom Finland.
Another Swedish winner in 2008- Peter Hanson took the lead on Thursday and never let it go. He was challenged by another Swedishplayer, Pelle Edberg, who took the second place and just missed his first European Tour victory.
On the final day, in glorious weather, Ricardo Gonzalez played dream golf on the last six holes and won two shots over the WelshmanJamie Donaldson. The ninth Masters competition on Barsebäck G&CC was over.
Choi, Sabatini, Fowler and Dustin Johnson worked on their shape early in the week on beautiful Bro Hof. The British Open winner LouisOostehuizen led until a rainy Sunday, when Richard Johnson birdied on the 18th hole to win.
It was the second year at Bro Hof Slott, and the second year in a row a Swede won. Alexander Norén went out on Sunday with a safeeleven-shot lead ahead of Bubba Watson. Despite severe gales, he managed to control the game and won by seven shots before tens ofthousands of spectators in Victory Valley.
Lee Westwood won in 2012 after a world-class golf performance! Sergio Garcia finished nicely in third, but never looked as though hecould overtake the Englishman.
Finland’s Mikko Ilonen ended a six-year victory drought by once again winning the Nordea Masters in Sweden. Ilonen’s final round of 69had a victory margin of three shots, 21 under par in total. Conditions at Bro Hof in Stockholm were amazing. The course was in top trimand the sun was shining brightly all week. Jonas Blixt chased Ilonen into the final and finished second. 2014
In 2014, Nordea Masters returned to Skåne, which meant a premiere for PGA National in Bara outside of Malmö. Henrik Stenson,number two in the world at the time of competition, was the brightest star on the Lakes Course 31 May-1 June. He was accompanied byamong others Thomas Björn, the Spaniard Miguel Angel Jimenez and the home player Jonas Blixt. The Thai Thongchai Jaidee won inimpressive form and has vowed to retain his championship. His recent top showings in the Irish Open (May 2015) suggest he is in fineform to mount a strong challenge once again.
2006
20072008200920102011201220132014
(Opp page) Far Left:Parnevik in 1997
Left:Westwood 2012
Sweden's Alex Noren sealed his second Nordea Masters title with a one-under final-round 71 to win by four shots at PGA Sweden National inMalmo.The 32-year-old finished 12-under for the tournament with Denmark's Soren Kjeldsen (71) in second.Noren, who missed most of last year with tendonitis, said: "Last year this moment seemed a very long way off."England's Lee Slattery (70) and Tom Murray (71) were the highest placed Britons on five-under.Noren took a two-shot lead into the final round and despite a bogey on the second that cut his advantage in half, henever looked like being caught in windy conditions.Playing partner Max Kieffer had matched Noren's birdie on the first but then ran up a double bogey on the fourth,where his tee shot hit a male spectator on the head, and also double-bogeyed the next after his second shot caughtthe lip of a fairway bunker.Noren eased four shots clear of the chasing pack and although Sebastian Soderberg and then Kjeldsen got withinthree, Noren reeled off 15 straight pars before a birdie on the last sealed a fourth European Tour title in the sameevent which provided his third in 2011.The winner added: "It was pretty much the toughest weekend I've ever felt. When you are in the lead especially youthink a lot and it was so tough."
Norda Masters2015:Alex Noren wins title by four shots in Malmo
Norda Masters 2015 final round leaderboard-12 A Noren (Swe); -8 S Kjeldsen (Den); -6 A Levy (Fra), J Dantrop (Swe), S Soderberg (Swe), M Kieffer(Ger); -5 F Zanotti (Par), L Slattery (Eng), J Blixt (Swe), B Ritthammer (Ger), T Murray (Eng)
Newly crowned US Open champion Jordan Spiethsays he is excited to be part of a young generationof players currently dominating golf's top events.
The 21-year-old has won 2015's first two majors,with his victory on Sunday coming after hisMasters win in April.
Rory McIlroy, 26, holds the other two major titles,the Open and US PGA Championship, withRickie Fowler, 26, the Players Championshipchampion.
"It's awesome that the game is in young hands,"said Spieth.
"It's kind of cool I think to have two playersholding the four majors and Rickie having thefifth [Players Championship]."
Spieth's victories this year are his first in the majorsand match the achievement of McIlroy in winningback-to-back titles after the Northern Irishman'svictories in the Open at Hoylake in July 2014 and inthe US PGA at Valhalla the following month.
Spieth is ranked second in the world, behindMcIlroy, but the American downplayedsuggestions of a rivalry between the two.
"I don't think there is much of a rivalry. I've saidthat from the beginning," stated Spieth. "Rory hasfour majors and dozens of wins and I'm just startingout.
"Again, I'm certainly quite a bit younger than he is.I'm just happy to have this and to be chasing thatnumber one spot that he holds. So I'm certainlyfocused on that."
Spieth's victory at Chambers Bay on Sunday saw himfinish five under and one shot ahead of fellowAmerican Dustin Johnson, who three-putted the lastfrom 12 feet.
It means Spieth is now the sixth player to win theMasters and US Open in the same year, the youngestplayer to win the latter since Bobby Jones in 1923,and keeps him on course to potentially become thefirst player to win all four majors in a calendar year.
The next major is The Open at St Andrews on 16-19July, followed by the US PGA Championship inWisconsin on 13-16 August.
Tiger Woods came the closest to achieving the featwhen he won all four major titles consecutively, butover two calendar years in 2000 and 2001.
"I think it's in the realm of possibility," said Spiethwhen asked if he could add the Open and US PGA tohis haul this year.
"I'm just focused on the Claret Jug [the prize forwinning the Open] now.
"I think that the Grand Slam is something that Inever could really fathom somebody doing,considering I watched Tiger win when he waswinning whatever percentage of the majors heplayed in and he won the 'Tiger Slam', but henever won the four in one year.
"And I figured if anybody was going to do it, itwould be him, which he still can.
"I've proven to myself that I can win on aBritish-style golf course now. Now I take it tothe truest British-style golf course of any in theworld.
"I'm just excited for the opportunity comingthen, and I'm not going to think about whatcould possibly happen after."
Jordan Spieth Rory McIlroyUnited States Northern Ireland
21 AGE 262012 Turned Pro 20072 Ranking 12 Major Wins 43 2015 Wins 2
*FORMULA: PGA Tour/European Tour wins since start of 2012 (WGC, FedEx Playoff, Players &BMW PGA events weighted more) + Average Official World Golf Ranking points + Career "closecalls" in major championships (finishing within four shots of winner).
In the midst of a Tournament special edition, we thought it might be interesting to have a sneakypeek into the best golfers who haven’t won a major… Please bear in mind that this is aScandinavian special and as such - it might fall into the hands of a Scandinavian…. We wanted thevictor to have consolation in at least one triumph…
The 5 Best (current) Golfers Without A Major
5. IAN POULTER
Holding him back: Ball-striking
Best chance: 2013 British Open (A torridSunday stretch got him to within twoshots of the lead on the back nine beforehe cooled off and finished T-3)
Breakdown: People may be surprised tofind Poulter so far down the list, but theclutch putting he's displayed in the RyderCup hasn't always carried over to thegame's biggest individual events. Thatdoesn't mix well for a below-averageplayer on the PGA Tour when it comes togreens in regulation.
4. LUKE DONALD
Holding him back: Total driving
Best chance: 2011 Masters (A late flurry, includinga chip-in on the final hole of regulation, gave him aT-4, four shots behind winner Charl Schwartzel)
Breakdown: Of the players on this list, Donald haswon the most tournaments since the start of 2011,a big reason why he's spent the most time rankedNo. 1. However, his lack of high finishes in majorsis perplexing. Only one time has he played in thefinal group at a major (2006 PGA Championship)and he did not fare well. If you recall, he matchedTiger Woods by wearing red that day (left). Let'sjust say he didn't match his score.
3. LEE WESTWOOD
Holding him back: Short game
Closest call: 2009 British Open (Three-puttedfinal hole of regulation to finish T-3, one shot outof a playoff with Stewart Cink and Tom Watson)
Breakdown: Westwood has put himself incontention at golf's four biggest events as often asanyone in recent years. He's finished in top threeat all four, including in seven of 15 at one stretchfrom 2008 to 2012. However, his putter has gonecold at some inopportune times, most notably atTurnberry in 2009. Westwood picked up an eighthtop-three finish at a major at the 2013 BritishOpen at Muirfield, where he led by two after 54holes before being passed by Phil Mickelson andhis magical final-round 66.
2. SERGIO GARCIA
Holding him back: Attitude
Closest Call: 2007 British Open (Missed an eight-footerfor the win in regulation before losing in a playoff toPadraig Harrington)
Breakdown: The playoff loss at Carnoustie was Garcia'stoughest loss (left), but there have been other close calls.The Spaniard has 18 top 10s and nine top fives in majors,including a runner-up to Tiger Woods at the 1999 PGAChampionship at 19. Combine that with his eight PGATour wins, including a Players, and Garcia probably hasthe best career resume of anyone on this list.Unfortunately, those close calls have created enough scartissue for Garcia to hint numerous times that he doesn'thave what it takes to win a major. Yeah, that kind ofthinking probably doesn't help.
AND THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD WITHOUT A MAJOR IS. . .
1. HENRIK STENSON
Holding him back: Short game
Best chance: 2013 PGA Championship (Finished third to Jason Dufner)
Breakdown: After a couple quiet years, the Swede is back and playing the best golf of his life. His third placefinish at the PGA came three weeks after a runner-up to Phil Mickelson at the British Open. He then capturedtwo of the four FedEx Cup Playoff events, including the Tour Championship. Having won golf's biggestpayday -- the $10 million bonus that comes with claiming the FedEx Cup -- Stenson is a heavy favorite to bethe first person to remove his name from this list in 2015-6
PGA OF SWEDEN NATIONALpremiumTHE FINEST
In 1996 the Swedish Board of the PGA had just concluded their dailychores and retired to enjoy a whisky (or two) and discuss the futureof Swedish golf, advancement and the possibilities of creating worldclass golf courses to rival the very best in the world.
The idea excited everyone, but the sheer scale of the task gave areality check to most who had been so enthused the evening before.All that is - except one. The next morning, Mikael Sorling began aproject that 13 years later would result in one of the world’s greatestgolf courses – The PGA Course of Sweden.The investment was sourced and found, Kyle Phillips was recruitedas the Golf course architect (and lead design) and its location perim-eters (proximity to Denmark, Germany and accessible to golfers) allset and implemented.
Finding prime land resources to match the strict criteria was an un-enviable task - securing over 275 hectares of land - ticking all theboxes - seemed almost impossible. Nils Yngvesson the former citycouncillor knew of Malmö council´s interest in selling the magnificentgrounds of Torup Castle. Kyle gave the thumbs up for the site andthe vision had now become reality.
A vast project begun in re-developing the land back to itsformer undulating and natural state from its agriculturally flat-tened condition. Easier options were always available, but thisproject had to be perfect and this course to be the veryfinest in Sweden and one of the best in the world – so NO cor-ners were cut.
The ethos of the PGA Course, Sweden was to create a worldclass modern golf venue, one which had everything a top-tierclub needed, but also one which was sympathetic to traditionand included the very best classical features. The service andquality had to exceed excellence in every department from thequality of the facilities to the challenge of the golf – whilst re-maining accessible and open to all golfers and being thecourse where every player sought to return to and enjoy again.
When everything is complete there will be two magnificent 18hole golf courses, a fantastic 9 hole par three course, confer-ence centre, state of the art practice facilities, a restaurantoverlooking the finishing holes on both courses, spa, magnifi-cent hotel rooms, teaching studio´s, golf shop and a customfitting service.Thirteen years after the preliminary discussions the officialopening of the PGA of Sweden National took place on the12th of June 2009 – and a club exceeding all earlier expecta-tions was formed.
The venue houses the renowned Links Course and a park landinspired course, the Lakes course. Both championship 18 holecourses and together under the PGA course banner – formi-dable! Their attachment to nature and sympathetic allegianceto the harmony of the land make them unique in their quality,experience and of course challenge to golfers.
The club house, another feat of perseverance and design ex-cellence contains 16 luxury suites, a restaurant, bar and facili-ties all meeting those high exacting standards.
All these enviable attributes and assets however are onlytopped by the sheer friendly professionalism of the superbstaff who welcome everyone with the same custom and makeit a real pleasure to visit and enjoy the PGA Sweden.
The project with all its tireless dedication, hurdles and chal-lenges together with all of the money, time and minute plan-ning that went into creating this masterpiece, would only beworthwhile if the challenge and enjoyment of the golf exceed-ed all other things. As you may have gathered by now –
- and how!!
The only way to properly share the fun to be had at the Linksand the Lakes courses is to suggest you make plans to playboth. For the purpose of at least wetting your appetite thougha brief overview of each and the 9 hole Academy course forbasic and golfers to play.
Lakes Course
On May 29, 2010 the Lakes Course was inaugurated by Euro-pean Tour winner Peter Hanson and course architect Kyle Phil-lips, it was fully opened just a month later on the 29th June.Here the player faces typical creeping bent grasses, smallgreens, more water hazards and large bunkers. The course hasbeen built with the most modern methods and completely inharmony with nature. Right from the opening, the Lakes Courseis a terrific test of golf and thoroughly examines and pushes themost avid and dedicated golfers of all standards.You play with the clubhouse in the background and views overthe beautiful countryside all around you. The large, purpose-builtlake bordering holes 9, 17 and 18 is daunting and provides atrue test and fabulous backdrop for any connoisseur of thegame. Bunkers on the Lakes Course are 74 in number, no few-er than on the Links Course but with an overall area equal toalmost three times that of the Links course. Most definitely ob-stacles to be reckoned with or avoided.
The Lakes Course opens with a slight dog leg right par fivemeasuring nearly 500 meters. Uphill, heavily bunkered all theway to a small undulating green. .The secret of the ninth hole is to get the ball in play. A greatdrive, slightly right of the fairway, will help. But it is long and nar-row all the way to the green, where both water and bunkersawait, An extremely challenging golf hole.The tenth green is tricky to say the least tricky and there aresome extremely tough flag placements, Carelessness can easilyresult in a double bogey. The three finishing holes are demand-ing and require great courage and skill. The sixteenth although“only” protected by a little winding creek is all the more reasonto keep the ball on the fairway.
Seventeenth on the Lakes Course and the Links Course arecrucial short holes. You have to fly the ball 155 meters over thewater, into a narrow but deep green with several bunkersguarding the right side.The closing hole is 500 meters long with the lake all the way upthe left side. The slope down to the water will punish the una-ware or the careless.
Links Course
The Links Course is a classic 18 hole championship course createdin tandem with nature. The course has the typical characteristics oflinks golf with large undulating greens and numerous small deepbunkers.The greens are built on a bed of sand then shaped to liken the softsand dunes of a typical Scottish links course. The grass specificationfor the links course is a fescue blend, providing the playing charac-teristics typical to links courses – they all play true and consistently.The stunning red brick clubhouse is visible from every hole on thecourse and on clear days one can see all the way to Turning Torso inMalmö so it is as pretty to the eye as it is adrenaline pumping to thesoul!
With around 20 meters altitude difference the course is a demandingand exciting golf experience which requires a certain amount of guileto avoid the small stream which runs along seven of the holes on thelinks.
As with all links courses, there are no trees – in breaking with tradi-tion – even if only a little bit, the Links has one… It grows all by itselfbehind the first green – it actually adds to the unique feel of thecourse and a little badge to wear on the lapel for this true master-piece. There are also two very old mining sites on course - Legendhas it that a young farmer’s son had fallen into one of these sites andhis father tried to rescue him. His screams of help are still to beheard on the long light summer nights apparently!! (Keep an ear outwhen you pass by).
PGA of Sweden National
Box 5, 233 02 Bara, SWEDEN
Reception +46 (0) 40 635 51 00
r
http://www.pgaswedennational.se/
Academy Course
The nine hole Academy course consists of nine full length par3’s that have the same quality as the Lakes and Links. It isalso designed by Kyle Phillips so maintains all the same highstandards of play and the same spirit and stunning look andfeel. The course is perfect for those who fancy a quick roundor want to practice their short game/ iron play. It is open forpay & play as long as one player holds a handicap.
All facilities are world class, the service is fantastic and thegolf, simply some of the best we have ever played. The fair-ways and greens all play consistently, honestly and true. ThePro Shop is perfect and you get personalised scoring cardsand a detailed stroke-saver when you play. The food as youwould expect – fantastic and even when the course is quiet,the same standards and menu is available to provide freshlycooked food in the lovely surroundings.
No guide on the finest golf of Scandinavia would be completewithout the magnificent PGA National of Sweden.
HIMMERLAND GOLF & SPA RESORTpremiumTHE FINEST
O ne of the golfing highlights and featured events inScandinavia is the coveted and renowned “Made in Denmark”tournament. Essentially this is the Danish Open – the biggestand most prestigious golf event in Denmark. It’s obviously notonly an honour to host and manage this event – but a massiveresponsibility. ‘Made in Denmark’ is a top-tier European TourEvent which takes place from the 14th-17th August (2014) andis attended by the majority of top ranking professionals. Him-merland proudly hosts this tournament and what an incrediblevenue and hosting club it really is!
Making our elite list of top-tier and spectacular golfing high-lights and recommendations is the stunning Himmerland Golf& Country Club - It really is a breath taking and incredible venue.Himmerland lies approximately 20 kilometres to the West from(reputedly) Europe’s cleanest city, Aalborg (a stunning andrelatively undiscovered city location in the exposed North ofJutland, Denmark. This is an area of outstanding naturalbeauty and history and boasts a natural effervescence andscenic beauty which can only be enjoyed in this part of theworld.Not only is Himmerland a stunning, superb and absolutely topquality country club, it’s Northern Europe’s largest golf resortboasting 45 superb holes and extensive practice facilities ofthe highest order.With so many challenges contained within the luxurious centreof excellence, there is a decision to be made with regards towhich course to select! Each option offers its own set ofchallenges and pushes your game in different ways; however,many will choose the PGA New Course ( , Back-Tee New)which was originally laid out by Jan Sederholm in 1993.
It was completely closed for renovation by Spogard and Vander Vaart Course architects to stunning acclaim and openedto play in April 2013. The work has been incredibly wellreceived and has transformed this already superb course intoa world-beater of a golf course! It looks and plays amazinglywith so many beautifully crafted hazards and a layout to pushyour shot selection and strategic thinking to the full.The redeveloped PGA New Course, now measures almost7,400 yards (and now renamed the ‘Back-tee New’) and willdebut on the European Tour circuit in 2014. The course ismade for top quality golf. It is a dream to play for both longhitters with ultra-High-Tec kit and regular players with triedand trusted clubs. It is designed so that each and every holewill push your game should you allow it and provide the vigourand mental intrigue that all world class circuits need to deliver.
www.himmerlandgolf.dk Bookings: +45 96496100
Himmerland has a pedigree in hosting major events andthe quality and standard testifies as such - Thomas Bjørn,for example, won his first professional title here in 1995 atthe New Course. The greens, fairways and overall condi-tion of the course is superb. Manicured and maintainedwith precision and dedication. It is managed with theutmost of professionalism and it looks like ‘money is noobject’ in providing you with the best quality in comfort,play design and upkeep to enjoy a terrific and memorableround (or two) of golf.Although the course measures almost 7,400 yards, itshouldn’t intimidate you. Different Tee placements meanthat regular hitters can also find the right challenge to suit.
The resort, as mentioned, has two full 18 hole courses(The Garia and aforementioned Back-Tee) as well as apractice/ beginners course – The Bette Course. Thoughthe Back-Tee steals the headlines with its sheer playingand fluid challenges, the Garia is well worth a visit too!Himmerland ticks so many boxes and fulfils so much it isdifficult to simply review or critique the golfing parts alone.Golf is much more than just the round itself. It has toprovide a complete experience and be comparable tonumerous other recreational activities and pleasures, thatthese days, clubs and resorts have to be resourceful andgenerous if they want to succeed. Himmerland gets ourvote as it simply achieves on every single level to most, ifnot all groups of golfers and travellers. Families, friends,business groups or get-together's can all arrive at Him-merland to one of the warmest welcomes you are everlikely, and lucky, enough to be spoilt to!As a complete country club, Himmerland is bursting withactivities and facilities. From Bowling , an incredible bar(The Sky Bar) as well as the simply opulent restaurants(the POLO fine dining restaurant and the Brasserie - myfavourite!) which serves superb classic and contemporarycuisine and will satisfy…Genuinely, I cannot fault any of the facilities, set-up andoffered services. It is managed to such a high degree ofcare and ‘ . All staff we encounteredcouldn’t be happier to help and provide a service whichwill make you glad to be there. It all feels genuine, as ifthey know how good an experience this is and are gladthey can help add to your enjoyment.I visited with two fellow golf writers, and trying to combinemy obsession with golf with an even greater professionalobsession to find objective faults or failure became thechallenge of the week-end! We gave up looking for faultas it just oozed comfort and provided a welcoming andrelaxed ambience Such is the attention to detail, therecould be no suggestion, improvement or “what if..” thatyou may have experienced in a get-away or round of golf.Everything about Himmerland (as mentioned) deservesthe maximum credit.
The course is made for top quality golf. It is a dreamto play for both long hitters with ultra-High-Tec kitand regular players with tried and trusted clubs. ”
“
www.himmerlandgolf.dk Bookings: +45 96496100
In searching for the finest in golf and golf travel,Himmerland delivers in a truly unique and gratifyingway. From a purely aesthetic vantage point, it has aunique and definitely Danish charm and elegance –full of typical Danish wildlife and scenery. Everycorner holds a little surprise and something to enjoyand the quality of care and finish - to everything - addsthat something extra.The golf challenge, as stated, is here in abundance andwith a breadth and variety unmatched anywhere inEurope the longevity and longer visits are not onlypossible, but virtually a requirement! All facilitiesfrom fitness to feeding will astonish and surpass yourexpectations and that magic ingredient of ‘quality ofservice’ and management is possibly the greatest assetand most impressive feature!I will certainly be returning to Himmerland Golf &Country Club and can happily recommend and awardthem the highest acclaim as one of Scandinavia’sstand-out and superb venues.
Himmerland Golf & Country ClubCentervej 1, Gatten.DK-9640 FarsøDenmark
Phone: +45 96496100
premiumTHE FINEST
VASATORPS GOLF CLUB
Vasatorps Golf Club is recognised as one of Europe’stop golf courses and having indulged ourselves andplayed this magnificent course, we can absolutely seewhy all golf writers and visitors rave about the quality,ambience, condition and service they have all receivedhere. Vasatorp was conceived and the dream child of UlfWiederström the former head of Skanska constructioncompany. Situated approx 12km from Helsingborg inSweden and easily accessible to visitors, Vasatorp ranksas one of the great golf experiences to be enjoyedanywhere. Everything about this course and clubscreams class - the grounds are meticulously andexpertly groomed to such a high standard and with suchcare and attention that it is a rare and real privilege tovisit and especially to play here.
The golf club has been hosting major events since the1970’s - the original course designed by Thure Bruce -was completed in 1974 and within six years, the likes ofSeve Ballesteros, Sandy Lyle and Greg Norman werewinning the Scandinavian Enterprise Open here andenjoying every minute of it!!
“SERIOUSLY, SOME OF THEGREAT HOLES IN WORLD GOLF”
VASATORPS GOLF CLUBpremiumTHE FINEST
Vasatorp is now established as one of the great golfclubs and with the new management structure in placeand establishing a level of quality others sadly do noteven strive for, the future looks even brighter for thisspectacular club. The Helsingborg Open has beensuccessfully staged here and the level of play achievedhas been partially due to the challenge Vasatorpspossesses. Many spectators were promoting Vasatorp asa venue for the 2018 Ryder Cup which was awarded toFrance for golf developmental considerations, but itmust surely be a matter of time before they will beasked to bid.The introduction in 2008 of the Tournament coursedesigned by Arthur Hills and Steve Forrest has raisedthe bar in terms of golf across Sweden and Europe. Itslayout is a combination of remodelled and upgradedholes within a complex that extends to 54 holes ofsuperb golf!The short par 4, 8th and the tough par 4 13th are twostand out holes amongst 18 adrenalin filled holes andthe shape, design and intelligent design all combine tomake the TC (Tournament Course) one which lingers inthe memory and captivates you as you play it.
Vasatorps GC stunning 16th Hole
Every inch of the grounds through to the world class facilities are prepared with accuracy, warmthand affection. The service and quality standards displayed are unequalled and perhaps mostnoteworthy is the comfort and relaxation you enjoy the instant you arrive. All staff areprofessional, welcoming, happy and genuinely warm in character. Its obvious they are proud oftheir club and want you to enjoy your stay here. The greenkeepers and ground staff – althoughexpert in their care and maintenance are almost invisible.It is everything a world class club should be and Vasatorps GC reaches even further – extending itsambition to become even greater. In terms of receiving the most welcoming and enjoyable roundof golf and experience it is impossible to see beyond Vasatorp. Across the web, golf writers anddelighted guests and visitors all agree that Vasatorps Golf club excels in every way. A privilegeand delight to visit, topped with outstanding golf. Our advice, provided with the greatestconfidence and reassurance is to make your visit several days and indulge in more than one round,take in the beauty of the courses, the challenge of the golf and the warmth of the welcome fromthis exceptional club.
VASATORPS GOLF CLUBpremiumTHE FINEST
The TC was designed by international golf course architect SteveForrest, a past president of the distinguished American Society ofGolf Course Architects. Forrest brought over thirty years of designexperience to the drawing board when he began designing the“Tournament Course”. He was no stranger to the Swedish lands-cape at the time, having created Hills Golf Club in Gothenburg andSand Golf Club near Jonkoping, both of which have been praised bySwedish and international golf publications.The site that Forrest was given for the TC was a mix of open farm-land and some wooded hole corridors from an existing nine holeson the Club property. His direction from the Committee was to“design a dramatic, links-style course like Sand, but to soften it upa little.” So, in the open farmland areas, the Scottish linksland wascreated, while in the existing wooded corridors, a parkland stylecourse with just a touch of ruggedness was put in place.
The result is a varied, interesting and dynamic test of golf that has alittle something for everyone. Power hitters will appreciate holes 6and 10 where they can get home in two. Accurate drivers will shineon 7 and 13. Precise iron play will be rewarded on holes 2 and 17.Everyone will have fun with the tempting choices on holes 5 and 8.
What are Forrest’s favourite holes? He likes the beauty of hole 3,the intrigue of hole 11, and the deceptiveness of hole 15. Skilledplayers and casual golfers alike have fallen in love with TC. It hasrisen steadily in the Golf Digest rankings and promises to providechallenge and enjoyment for the golfers of Sweden for manyyears to come.
The Tournament Course,Vasatorps GC
Renowned architect:Steve Forrest
TournamentCourse (TC)
13th Hole
-2,5 m*
**position height relative tothe green
0
14
28
41
60
57
63
51
47
327
365
379
272
407
67
422
169159
8369
36
NextTee
63 22560 198
67 24257 183
63 235 60 20767 25251 156 47 101
51 236 47 181
57 193
1Par 4
Index 10
51
47
57
60
63
67
N
SE
W
116BRUNNSLOCK
VASATORPS GOLF CLUB‘TOURNAMENT COURSE’ GUIDE
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0
32
914
16 1216
29
60 140
63 162
67 162
4751
57
67 63
60
N
SE
W
2Par 3
Index 12
Green depth is measured fromthe Tee
60
57
63
51
47
108
129
156
108
178
67
178
114
92
92
2521:A TRÄ D/ BJÖ RK
208DUBBELBJÖ RK
161ENSAM BJÖ RK
100
7256
EK
1:A TRÄ D63 259 60 23467 25951 175 47 17557 208
67 63
60
57
51 47
N
S
E
W0
20
12
-9
25
8
60
57
63
51
47
426
454
486
426
512
67
512
3Par 5
Index 4
VASATORPS GOLF CLUB‘TOURNAMENT COURSE’ GUIDE
premiumTHE FINEST
0
35
21
45
15
3
25
67
63
60
57
51
47N
S
EW
4Par 3
Index 18
60
57
63
51
47
131
163
168
116
197
67
226
60
57
51
47
15163 18167 210
146115100
63 252 60 21067 280 51 165 47 16557 210
63 275 60 23167 304 51 183 47 18357 231
0
-4
35
19
9
28
60
63
51
257
301
301
257
345
67
373
7088
67SLUT DAMM
RYGG / Å S
113 BRUNN
106
5Par 4
Index 2
67
63
60 57
51 47
N
S
E
W
51
47
129
6788
165 BJÖ RK
START WASTE
-27
197
OUT OF BOUNDS
BJÖ
START WA
63 231 60 23167 25851 156 47 13757 193
63 247 60 24767 27451 172 47 15357 210
63 298 60 29867 32651 225 47 20557 262
67
63 60
57
51
47
N
S
E
W
0
18
36
24
1419
6Par 5
Index 16
60
57
63
51
47
368
406
443
349
443
67
472
VASATORPS GOLF CLUB‘TOURNAMENT COURSE’ GUIDE
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0
39
28
148
3 9
15
60
57
63
51
47288
321
356
262
356
67
379
129TOPP
SLUT WASTE
104
72
33
DIKESHÖ RN
SLUT WASTE
149
63 231 60 23167 25451 164 47 13857 196
7Par 4
Index 8
67
63 60
57
51
47
N
S
E
W
31
69 ÅS
106 ÅS
ÅS
ÅS57
89
63 260 60 23467 260 51 199 47 16657 199
63 218 60 19167 218 51 156 47 12357 156
63
60
67
57 51
47
N
S E
W
0
13
8
19
3125
14
8Par 4
Index 14
60
63
51
235
235
271
205
298
67
298
VASATORPS GOLF CLUB‘TOURNAMENT COURSE’ GUIDE
premiumTHE FINEST
63 186 60 16067 186 51 127 47 9157 127
47
57
0
36
13
22
30
60
57
63
51
47
312
345
378
275
378
67
404
155
129
83SLUT WASTE
44
OUT OFBOUNDS
9Par 4
Index 6
47
51
63 60
67
57
63 238 60 23867 264 51 171 47 13557 205
63 216 60 21667 242 51 150 47 11357 183
63 27067 29657 23860 2704751 203 173
N
S
E
W
297
265START MUR
173
145
86START DAMM
NextTee
63 287 60 28767 34651 248 47 22857 272
63 170 60 17067 22951 132 47 11257 155
63 60
67
57
51
47
N
S
E
W
0
22
10
10
16
10Par 5
Index 9
60
57
63
51
47
434
457
473
413
473
67
532
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0
26
7
12
19
15
60
57
63
51
47
280
313
321
249
340
67
376
4661
119
63 215 60 19667 25051 155 47 12357 189
63 25667 29257 23060 23747 16951 196
11Par 4
Index 15
63
60
67
57
51
47
N
S
E
W
+ 2 8
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131
178
232259
290
80
OUT OFBOUNDS
63 255 60 22967 255 51 166 47 13057 198
67 63
60
57
51
47
N
S
E
W
0
24
1414
5
-9
12Par 5
Index 7
60
63
51
440
474
506
402
534
67
534
57
47
63 218 60 19067 218 51 126 47 8857 159
DAMM / RÖ
63 20667 24157 17760 17747 14351 143
60
57
51
47
265
63 290
67 320
265
232232
0
40
9
16
23 21
98
147
125
167
13Par 4
Index 1
63
60
67
57
51 47
N
S
E
W
60
57
63
51
47
326
359
359
326
386
67
419
0
33
7
1723
63
60
67
57
51 47
N
S
E
W
14Par 3
Index 13
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60
57
63
51
47
113
135
145
113
172
67
200
60
57
51
47
13063 15667 185
1209898
63 172 60 17267 20651 110 47 7457 140
63 2 1 2 60 21267 24351 1 5 8 47 12657 184
63 251 60 25167 28551 189 47 15257 219
60
57
63
51
47
331
361
391
293
391
67
426
0
38
15
27
48
134
175
156
15Par 4
Index 3
63 60
67
57
51
47
N
S
EW
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60
57
63
51
47
334
366
366
305
425
67
425
BJÖ
63 227 60 16967 22751 136 47 10857 169
63 258 60 20067 25851 170 47 14157 200
63 316 60 25767 31651 226 47 19757 257
49
99 BJÖ RK
158START DUNGE
178 MUR
60 57
51
47
67 63
N
S
E
W
0
38
1114
20 21
16Par 4
Index 5
24
4
1211
15
0
6
1113
19
17Par 3
Index 17
4751
60 57
67 63
N
S
E
W
60
57
63
51
47
100
123
123
100
135
67
135
60
57
51
47
11363 12567 125
1139090
51
117 MUR
161 MUR
204
OUT OFBOUNDS
OUT OFBOUNDS
MUR
67
63
60 57
51
47
N
S
E
W
0
41
10
19
2818Par 4
Index 11
VASATORPS GOLF CLUB‘TOURNAMENT COURSE’ GUIDE
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60
57
63
51
47
326
363
363
285
397
67
428
MUR
63 295 60 25867 32751 218 47 17657 258
63 230 60 19267 26351 152 47 11057 192
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1: Aim for the right side of the fairway from the tee to get a good angle of attack to the green. Keep in mind that thegreen is very deep so take an extra club if the flag is in the back.2: It is better to be short than long on this green to give you the best opportunity for two putts and a par.3: Generous fairway. If you are not certain that you can carry the stone wall on the second shot, take a club less to setup a safe third shot to the green. Aim at the left side of the green as the green tilts right.4: Aim at the left side of the green to avoid the waste-area to the right where your ball can end up in a difficult location.5: Place your tee ball to the right of the fairway bunker if you do not feel safe. The second shot view over the creek canbe blocked so make sure you aim on the trees behind and determine the length of the stroke required. Do not hesitate!6: Stay on the left side of the fairway all the way to the green to give you the best chance for a good outcome of the hole.7: Aim as close to the right side of the fairway as you dare to get a good view and angle of the second shot to the green.8: A tempting hole to go for the green, but think twice. Let the flag placement determine your opportunity. Rather layup short and attack with your favorite club increasing your chance of making par.9: Challenge the left side of the fairway from the tee to give you an open shot to the green. Make sure to leave it short ofthe flag rather than long on this heavily undulated green.10: There is plenty of space both on the right and left off the tee. Leave your second stroke short of the water so thatyou get a full stroke towards the green. Forget the pin on the approach. Instead aim to the left side of the green and letgravitation do the rest of the job.11: Keep your drive on the right side of the fairway. The approach is hidden and the green slopes in all directions.12: There's more space to the left of the fairway than you think off the tee. Always place your second shot on the rightside of the fairway giving you the best angle to the green.13: Signature hole. Aim for the fairway bunkers. If you end up in one of them play the hole as a par 5. The green is deepso take an extra club if necessary.14: Favor the left side of the green. If the ball does not stop on the green, you can putt the ball from the short grass offthe green.15: There's plenty of space to the left of the fairway, so challenge the left fairway bunker to get a good angle into thegreen. Take an extra club to the green as it plays uphill.16: The right side of the fairway is recommended. When you lie there, the path is open to the middle of the green. Doeverything to avoid the deep green side bunker.17. Always play to the middle of the green, regardless of the flag placement. If you play past the pin you will often face afast and tricky downhill putt and ending up short leaves a difficult chip or pitch uphill.18: Make sure to utilize the left side of the fairway so that you will get a good angle into the green on the second shot.Play the approach towards the left side of the green where hills will help the ball toward the center of the green.
TOURNAMENT COURSE: PLAYING TIPS
THE BEST SCANDINAVIAN GOLF CLUBS
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As part of this souvenir and guide to the best golf events in Scandinavia, we would like toshowcase the very finest golf clubs to visit and enjoy whilst you take in the ambience andhospitality of this fine region.
The clubs have been visited, played, tasted and pushed to the limits. Only the very best madethe cut and we are certain that you too will find the following clubs both challenging and awelcome experience to savour.
Enjoy these clubs
Dan Loria
Left: Vasatorps GC, TC Hole 16
Opp: Bro Hof Slott
Choose between The Castle Course, a challengingfirst-rate beauty with a Scottish links character andsmall challenging bunkers, and The StadiumCourse, one of Europe’s absolute finest coursesand either way you are spoilt for choice!
Virtually all observers and professional writers alikeagree that these really are special places andcourses. Upon reflection, you’d better play both,as they offer different challenges and throw up theirown conundrums whilst allowing you to inhalesuch a special atmosphere and feeling of privilegewhen you play through each hole and each round.
In Sweden, Golf Digest ranked the ‘Stadiumcourse’ in first place (once again) whilst ‘The Castlecourse’ placed fifth - so competition is high, evenbetween these two world class courses!
Bro Hof Slott is regularly ranked in the world’s topcourses in every (and any) course ranking. Consid-ering there are more than 32,000 golf clubs acrossthe world and tastes differ of course, more-the-remarkable given both appears in recognised top50’s lists.
omance, history, desire and tradition. Just four wordsthat come close to summing up even a fraction ofone of the finest Golf Clubs in the World. Bro Hof Slott is adelight to all the senses.
Outside of the UK, The Stadium course is considered thesecond best course in Europe (according to many journal-ists), The Castle course, similarly, is thought of in suchterms. We look for the experience, the charm and chal-lenge, the facilities and the club in an overall capacitybefore we can honestly recommend or rave about anycourse or club.
From tee-off to the final hole, from the changing room hottubs to exquisite lunches on the terrace, this is an experi-ence you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Bro Hof Slott is located in Upplands-Bro near Stockholm,Sweden, approx. 30 minutes’ drive from the city centre.Superlatives are difficult to begin to describe the qualityand feeling when you arrive and play these landmarkcourses. A ‘Things to do before you die’ list, to includeboth the Stadium and Castle courses at Bro Hof Slott.The main gates, in keeping with the elegance and grandeur,present a view of the Castle. You should have goosebumps all over by this point!)
It’s taken centuries to create and develop this area, even beforethe recent huge investments from the Club and its history andtraditions are as great as they are esteemed. In the Middle Ages,Brogård (now Bro Hof Slott) was a royal demesne estate. TheRålamb, Funck, Ribbing, Cederhielm, Sparre and Reuterskiöldfamilies all owned it at one time or another and under thedynamic management of Count Johan Sparre (1856-1938), theestate flourished.
The existing castle, which was designed by architect HermanHolmgren and built in 1888, was given a Baroque architecturalstyle with Empirical elements, as was typical of the period.
Through various leases and sales, wealthy businessman BjörnÖrås purchased the property in 2002 and began its transforma-tion into the Bro Hof Slott Golf Club we see today. The Castlehas been completely and meticulously renovated to recreate itsoriginal appearance and is a breath taking feature and surelyone of the world’s great Club residences.
One of the rooms, the 'Sparre Room', is named after the afore-mentioned Count Johan and is adorned with befitting furnish-ings and a portrait of the Count himself. The current banquethall, which previously consisted of two unfurnished storagerooms, has been restored, painted and again looks and feelstreasured, exquisite and as though you are immersed in Royalhistory.The garden surrounding the castle has been redesigned withgreen open spaces and those period-typical gates we men-tioned. A further 250 hectares off the golf course is managed byBro Hof Slott and is dedicated to Nature (which flourishes) andis enjoyed by a plethora of wildlife and too many species of birdsto list.The golf development has resulted in the preservation andmaintenance of the cultural and natural heritage of the area,safeguarding this astonishing landmark and area for generationsto come and visitors from across the globe.
It is undeniably Swedish, though it has many of the best at-tributes of US, Scottish and Links courses. The fairways, greens,approaches, tees, the rough (!) – In fact everything is perfect. Itis managed and maintained expertly. The level of commitmentand skill required to develop and keep all features in their pristinestate is truly testament to the expert management and teamability Bro Hof Slott has in abundance.
"We are very proud and happy about the high ranking that we getin Sweden, Europe and Worldwide. It's amazing that a coursein northern Stockholm can compete world-wide," the proudowner, Björn Örås says of his prized Stadium Course.
Though every part of the course is ideal and cared for perfectly,not for one second do you feel awkward or in awe.
From tee-off to the final hole, from thechanging room hot tubs to exquisite luncheson the terrace, this is an experience you’llremember for the rest of your life…
”“
You will be made to feel welcome, part of thefamily and cared for in the same manner aseach part of the grounds (which is a goodthing!). The luxurious and superb facilities,equipment and level of service, serve only toexpand and take your experience further intogolf heaven.
The “Boka Bord” restaurant would be in keep-ing with many of the top restaurants ,golfing or otherwise. Again, service and com-mitment from the staff make this more than justtop quality food and drink. The friendly smilesand genuine feeling of warmth you receivemake this special – very special, but with all thecomfort and relaxation you could wish to enjoy.
The par 72, 18-hole Stadium Course, which,like the estate's second Championship layout,the Castle course, was designed by US golfcourse architect, Robert Trent Jones Jnr,opened its doors to the public in 2007 and isamongst the very longest in Europe, stretchingup to 6 955 metres (7 607 yards) from its backtees.
Jones commented: “Everything is big at BroHof. The holes are longer, greens bigger,course has more water and bunkers larger andwell placed. Besides which, the wind is alwayspart of the game. On the dogleg holes, you notonly have to hit the ball a long way, you have toget it to stop too!”
The Stadiums thick roughs and elevated greenswill really punish wayward approaches anddrives, its design tempts and teases you inequal measure. The twists and turns encour-age you to add a little risk into your game –irrespective of whether you are a regular or longhitter, though longer shots may be handy here.
Choose to tee up from the white or black teesand each hole presents a brand new set ofchallenges and add a few notches to the diffi-culty...
The Castle Course, which opened in 2009, isshorter and a little more forgiving though full ofits own special challenges and personality. Itincludes numerous spectacular holes and itsgreens are fast and true.
Our first goal was to create the best GolfCourse in Sweden. Our next goal is to havethe best course in Europe. Björn Örås”“
[email protected]: + 46 (0) 8 545 279 90
The stunning water features and hazards on both holes, thoughtypically stunning are there for the challenge of the course and notmerely for show.
The practice facilities with a superb driving range and chipping andputting greens as well as a top notch pro shop complete the envia-ble list of features Bro Hof Slott boasts.
There is simply no better way to explain the quality, feel and charmof Bro Hof than to encourage you to enjoy and visit yourself. It is atrue marvel and experience to repeat and repeat again. You willseriously indulge in one of the finest golf experiences available.
ContactPhone: + 46 (0) 8 545 279 90
E-mail: [email protected] Hof SlottSE-197 91 BRO
Absolutely, positively NO trip to play golf inScandinavia should be made without a trip tothe unbelievable Falsterbo Golf Club of Sweden.It shares numerous members with Royal CountyDown and Prestwick to name but twocourses. Make no mistake. Falsterbo is abso-lutely in that league.If we are to uncover a gem which may not bethe most familiar with golfers from the UK, US,Southern Europe or Asia – this has to be it.Falsterbo was actually founded in 1909 and isSweden’s third oldest club. It is located in oneof the most stunning and picturesque conserva-tion areas in the world, at the Southernmost tipof Sweden on the Falsterbo Peninsula – which isas remarkable as it is beautiful. The Oresundand Baltic meet here and its bird colonies andrare varieties bring not only golfers but birdwatchers to witness the extremely rare breedswhich enjoy this area. It can rightly claim to havethe utmost authority on birdies… (apologies -my last pun)…
It was designed by the remarkable Gunnar Bau-er – a local Doctor with a passion for golf and anintelligence and character to match. He took theexisting 9 hole course which was built roundthe lighthouse and extended the course to the18 magnificent and extraordinary holes we knowtoday. Only the 7th and 14th remain of the origi-nal 9 to this day.
Between 1996 and 2001 some course moderni-sation and remedial work was carried out on thegreens, but apart from that, the course staystrue to the exquisite design and challenge Bauerfirst dreamt back in the early 1900’s.
The 7th green by the clubhouse
Having played Falsterbo recently, it is the more remarka-ble given the modern advancements in the game and thecourse still plays and holds true (& then some!). It is asdifficult and challenging as it is thought provoking andcharismatic. Every hole, each shot asks a question andrequires thought and technical know-how. Big hitters,short tacticians, combination players. There is somethinghere for everyone. Professional through to beginners, Idefy any golfer not to enjoy and be mesmerised by thequality of this world class venue.
The course and climate are quite British-esque in a way.The wind and sea breeze meets the sand and rough withperfect harmony. It is effectively looking at the best ofBritish Links with all the wisdom, wit and character of theSwede’s. An absolute delight.
You will find yourself smiling from ear to ear as you suckin the fresh sea air and admire the scenery which enve-lopes the course. White sandy beaches on your side, theSea crashing away and the rugged rough lining the per-fect fairways leading to perfection in the greens.
The brilliant 18th is everything a short par 5 should aspireto be. The green can (just) be reached in two should theprevailing wind assist you, however should you stray offline a bucket and spade should be in your bag (to helplocate your ball in the dazzling white sands!).
The climate is mild and the sea’s impact on the coursemeans that Falsterbo can be played all year round and isa different beast in Winter than Spring and again a wholenew course to play in Summer as opposed to the climac-tic variances of any other season. It literally takes on anew personality depending on when you play.
In 1984, David Blair (Captain of the R&A Club of St An-drews) when visiting Falsterbo exclaimed “this is an out-standing Links!” – he was notoriously hard to please.
Falsterbo is a classic example of the original Scottish golf-ing terrain - links. Sand dunes with sparse vegetation in-tervenes with lower lying areas where under decades anatural and fine turf has come forth. The natural waterhazards, many large sand bunkers as well as depressionsand the fast running greens are some of the characteris-tics of the course, which has for many years constantlybeen ranked among Sweden’s top-3 courses.
The 17th flag
Falsterbo lies within a virtually unique selection of classicand true links courses in Scandinavia and as men-tioned, one of the oldest – full of character and tradi-tional virtue but remaining relevant to the moderngames criteria. The club house is alive with history andfeels like you are entwined with historical significance.It’s not stuffy or uncomfortable – far from it. The wel-come-could-not-be-greater!
Without exaggeration, you feel like a member in thisgreat club te moment you arrive and everything is doneto invite and make you feel at home. The importance ofthe club is not forgotten to golf in Sweden and it is dis-played throughout.
The warmth of the hospitality soon erodes when youbegin your round and make your way to the first tee.The winds are notorious and punishing on occasion – itall adds to the mystique and the challenge though. Re-action to the first hole is mixed, but we found it fantasticand a great (risky) start to your round. A careless shotcould destroy your card before you properly get started!That is exactly what golfers enjoy – hit the groundrunning and begin as we mean to go on.
The 7th hole transforms this spectacular course into theacclaimed links for real. A short dog leg par 4 whichends in front of the club house. Again, full of tricky shotsand shot-selection-posers and brimming with risk/ re-ward choices.
The 11th hole is located on a island green with a wood-en bridge providing access. Its 160 yard status beliesthe challenge which confronts you and the obviousdamage to your round such a hole can inflict.
The back nine contain many of the most beautiful holesI have experienced in world golf. With water on bothsides and dunes around you, you are isolated from theworld with only the challenge of the hole to accompanyyou around. The 17th and 18th holes run along the pe-ninsula edge towards the clubhouse and the walk is apleasure to be savoured with the rare birds to keep youcompany.
The fairways through the course, though narrow andpunishing – are consistent and true. The priority (in myopinion) is to play straight and accurately rather thanlong, though both aspects would be beneficial. Thegreens, immaculate (despite the wind and sea barrage)seem to always play true and reward brave putting.
This is an Open Championships quality course in myhumble opinion; to find such an outstanding course sofar from the traditional location of the British Isles is re-markable. Add to this the unique Scandinavian influenc-es – which make the course – and this is trulysomething special.
A refreshing drink feels and tastes so much better hav-ing earnt it on course – completing 18 gruelling and re-markable holes of world-class golf in a setting which issecond to none.
A quick paddle in the Baltic to top off one of the great-est rounds of golf to be played anywhere in the worldand your trip will be complete. – (as youwill be busy making plans for your next visit).
Falsterbo – simply one of the finest golf clubs in theworld.
Falsterbo Golf ClubFyrvägen 34
239 40 FALSTERBOSWEDEN
Phone: +46 40 47 00 78Email: [email protected]
The magnificent Ljunghusen Golf Klubb has been described asthe Turnberry of Sweden – The Ailsa course to be precise. It’sa little misleading and extremely difficult to try to find com-parisons between any two golf courses – especially two fromdifferent countries, cultures and terrains, however the similar-ities are most certainly there in several aspects.
The beautiful Swedish landscape is one feature which ofcourse cannot be replicated or compared to any other – norwould you ever want it to. Located approximately 30km Southof Malmo, just to the West of Trelleborg on the Southern tipof the Swedish (Falsterbo) peninsula lies Hollviken - A mostpicturesque and typically Swedish town.
Although quintessentially Swedish in its personality, it’s actual-ly closer to Copenhagen in Denmark than to the Swedish capi-tal, Stockholm! It is easily accessible by road to Denmark andeven Germany and well covered by airports and ferry servicestoo.
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LJUNGHUSEN GOLF KLUBB
was opened to play in 1932 and it boasts 27 spectacular holes in its unique maritime heath on the Falsterbo peninsula. It has held nu-merous championships and both National and International tournaments – such is the high level and standard of challenge – whichinclude the PLM Open, Telia Tour GP and the European Men’s Team championships. Designed by Douglas Brasier, this course this is acourse full of imagination and charisma.
Like Turnberry and other famous Scottish cousin courses, Ljunghusen is blessed by nature with both its scenery, landscape, ruggedlocation and weather variations – which ultimately mean that the course can play completely differently from one season, week, day,EVEN one hour to the next! The challenges and style of challenge that face you alter and differ so greatly that should you ever as-sume you have a particular hole beaten, the wind changes speed and direction and it plays completely differently, like a brand newhole.
Superb golf courses should always be testing and this is absolutely in that category.
The Baltic weather and climactic variations are only one hurdle you must prepare and arm yourself for. The 80 deep bunkers and nu-merous (I think 12) extreme water hazards combined with thick gorse and heather areas mean this is a genuine Championship coursedesigned to meet the highest and most exacting of golfers requirements. Some courses are designed to play with a recreational orrelaxing attitude, like a Golden retriever using dog breeds as an example: reassuring and comforting – Ljunghusen is more of a wolf,unpredictable, dangerous, fierce!
Below: Ljunghusen club house today
Below: Ljunghusen 17th
Above: Ljunghusen club house 1933
It is the epitome of a risk and reward course – take it tooeasy and your score card will reflect the safety, try to riska shot here or there and the consequences can be severe.That is exactly what golf should be about though –shouldn’t it?The 17 and 18 holes demonstrate this point exactly.The 280 metre 17 par 4 is an absolute beauty of a hole. Itinvites you to take a risk which could destroy your scorecard, or make you a hero! The water at the front, left andright is threat enough, but when added to the elevatedgreen with four bunkers around the hole, it really resultsin a spectacular hole with as much charm as it has difficul-ties to overcome.A genuine feast of golf for the connoisseur and aficionadoof golfers to savour. Ljunghusen has been consistentlyranked in the top 10 Swedish golf courses and the top 100courses of Europe so you should expect great things. Be-lieve me, you wont be disappointed.The food is magnificent in the restaurant and service is ofan extremely high standard. They take pride in everythingthey provide at the club which includes the look, feel andmaintenance of the grounds on both the course andaround the comfortable Club House.The Club House is a modern building that has an impres-sive and comfortable balcony which allows for a welcomedrink to consider your round. It houses all modern facili-ties and caters for the most demanding of golfer’s needs.The Glass walls let the light and natural scenery into theclub which helps to keep the feeling and round clear inyour thoughts. The members are equally welcoming andhappy to share their thoughts and tips on the course tomatch the day’s conditions.The environmental considerations are paramount to theclub. The exquisite heath lands and attachment to natureare evident and the club takes it’s responsibilities seriouslyin the maintenance and success of the local species whichadd to the experience and unique quality of Ljunghusen.It was incidentally the first ever course to be GEO (Golf En-vironment Org) certified, which means it exceeds all envi-ronmental and sustainable targets and leads the way inmodern golf design and maintenance. Not only does Ljun-ghusen deliver a golf experience to savour and stay withyou long after your round has been completed, the legacyand leadership it displays in collaboration with its sur-roundings and with nature is second to none.
Ljunghusen green
Ljunghusen club house from the 18th
Ljunghusen course aerial
LJUNGHUSENS GOLFKLUBBKINELLS VÄG
236 42 HÖLLVIKENSWEDEN
TEL +46 40 45 80 00
This is a golfers circuit, made to test and push your game for real en-thusiasts and high calibre players. Any local golf course can allow youto make 18 comfortable holes, it takes a wolf to stir the blood andawaken the adrenaline in you.
The fairways are tight and narrow, mis-hit your tee shot and you will befighting to recover on almost all of the holes. The sea and landscape allaround you are stunning to the eye, but you will barely have opportu-nity to enjoy the views. The ground plays consistently and true, thereis shape and undulation, however, the heights and fall of the ground isnot the major draw or consideration. Its all about accuracy, gauging thepower and dealing with the wind and conditions on each hole.Every single hole and each individual shot needs your utmost concen-tration, it’s not enough to simply select your club; you have to consid-er the wind, the feel and the pressure in the air, simply awesome asyou play your round. One of our group mentioned after the roundthat he felt like he was playing at the Open. He felt the pressure andenjoyed the challenge of every single shot raising his standard andnever allowing him to rest on his laurels. Even after playing a greatshot, a new set of challenges faced his shot where he was confrontedwith a new set of problems to overcome.The 6th, 7th and 8th holes in sequence are superb to play in particular.Be confident and free in your swing and try not to worry about thewidth of the fairway.
Though it looks tight, there is plenty of room to land safely, just trustyour game and consider your risks. Trying to steal a shot may cost youtwo or three!
LJUNGHUSENS GOLFKLUBBKINELLS VÄG
236 42 HÖLLVIKENSWEDEN
TEL +46 40 45 80 00
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The picturesque and elegant Hørsholm Golf club is one poten-tial hidden gem which we are pleased to introduce non-Danes(or those unfamiliar) to J
Its classic understatement and tranquillity are in tune with thephrase strong words spoken softly. Hørsholm, though mostlyunknown in most of Europe is actually one of Denmark’s pre-mier golf clubs, renowned and well respected by golfers andenjoyed by corporate guests and visitors alike.
The coastal town of Hørsholm is situated in Northern Zealandand is 20 minutes distance from Helsingør and about 15km or20 minutes distance from Copenhagen. It sits almost oppositeHelsingborg (across the water admittedly) and right in themidst of some of Scandinavia’s major cities and thoroughfares– although you would never, ever, know it.
It’s a peaceful, naturally impressive and superbly designed(and created) golfing masterpiece! The course itself was builtin 1992 and was officially opened in ‘93. Originally just 9holes, today it boasts 27 superb holes, broken into three 9hole divisions which are rotated accordingly. The three differ-ent courses - North, West & East - provide good room formembers and guests as well as a healthy variation. Such isthe quality and thought that has gone into creating thesecourses, it genuinely doesn’t matter which combination youplay – they are all unique and with a character unique to Hør-sholm Golf club.
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The three 9 hole courses are titled, the West Course - 'Vestbanen', the North Course - 'Nord banen', and the East Course -'Øst banen.'
The rotation of the courses changes once a week, e.g.West/North is the 18 hole course whilst East is the 9 holecourse. The rotation means that you can experience a different18 and 9 hole course every week and because of the quality anddifferences of all three, the variety and challenge though differ-ent is always exceptionally playable and just as competitive re-gardless of the title.
The East Course is usually considered the most challenging dueto the many natural lakes that are in play. But in reality, allthree offer the same relative lengths, natural hazards and tacti-cal manoeuvring to guide through.
The course itself is typically Scandinavian in character but it’scharisma is definitely Danish. The look and feel is stunning withthe native woodland and green adorning the course, full of typi-cal Danish shrubs and flora. It has been meticulously created tobe in-tune with nature and its natural surroundings, and every-thing is designed and placed with that in mind. There are appar-ently more than 400 active bird houses hosting numerousspecies of native bird – carefully and professionally fitted andcamouflaged so that we couldn’t spot many through the course.The native wildlife thrive and co-exist happily and its impact onthe local landscape is minimal – as mentioned above, understat-ed brilliance.
Every part of the course and club for that matter is perfectlymanicured and treated. The layout is so perfectly managed thatthe tree lines and shapes fit like a jigsaw into the view aroundthe course. Impressive stuff.
The green keepers and ground staff work tirelessly of course toensure the look is tidy whilst being character-full and natural.Though it is a beautiful sight, it is not just a nice walk… Far fromit in fact. Hørsholm in that respect is a wolf in sheep’s clothing…Passive and calm, but a shadowy menace lingers and contrast-ing “dark side” which all top tier golf courses need to possess.An apt comparison given they apparently utilise sheep to natu-rally manage certain rough areas – away from golfers to protectthe sheep by the way…
Below: Natural Maintenance, Horsholm’s resident (extra) green keepers.
Hørsholm Golf A/SGrønnegade 12970 Hørsholm
Denmark
Tel: +45 45 76 51 50E-mail: [email protected]
The holes are demanding, tricky, clever and will punish the lazyshot maker. The greens are fast, always true and consistent –(so completely fair) – but their placement and turns, contoursand run offs will punish the wary and reward (equally) the brave.The fairways are equally impressive and challenging ranging be-tween narrow and tricky to wide and spacious. The turns andangles all come into play and vary upon the conditions and varia-ble winds that courses create and experience – some shots willcarry whilst others hold dependent upon your striking of courses,but also the day and atmosphere. This course is almost more funin wet and windy conditions, though my preference has alwaysbeen sunny clear and warm days. We played on a variable daywhich changed from clear, bright skies to a little drizzle. It wasfortunate really as the course was great fun through the brightsunshine, but developed a new personality with the drizzle andslight wind. With some courses nick-named the “beast”, “thedevil” and so on, Hørsholm deserves a mantra befitting a varied,smiling, clever and extremely playable golf course which has thepotential to punish you should you take it lightly.
Without wishing to cliché, it’s a classic risk/ reward golf course. Itcan be the ideal relaxation and calming experience for the lei-surely golfer or the aforementioned ‘wolf’ waiting to pounce atany given occasion dependent upon your style and mood. Theopportunities exist through the golf course to push that extra fewyards, create a better angle to the green, work your approach togive better birdie opportunities or not. I am always an preacherof pushing your game to the limit – especially when a golf courseencourages and allows for it. Many courses – in fact most, playsafe and don’t. Hørsholm is definitely in the category of allowingand secretly wanting you to try to score well and push yourgame. Around every corner and hole though, lurks danger andrisk to your score card… The lakes and water hazards interminglewith lush green, the bunkers merge into the natural shape andtopography of the land.
The brilliance of Hørsholm is that it doesn’t try to recreate or in-vent an area, it has used the best mother nature can establish totempt, tease and produce some spectacularly fun and frustratinghazards a golf course can think of. Working together rather thantwo different forces pulling against each other. This I believe isthe future of golf course design and Hørsholm, though respectfulof history and tradition is full of spirit, personality and presenceand is a forward thinking modern golf club.
From beginning to end the service was top notch and always withgenuine warmth. The members were encouraging, helpful andfull of tips and advice. The facilities and academy is amongst thevery best and is recognised as the best in Denmark whichalongside the fantastic restaurant Lerbækgaard made this a trulymemorable and fantastic golfing visit. A must play golf courseand highlight of Scandinavian golf.
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DROTTNINGHOLMS GOLF CLUBpremiumTHE FINEST
Kungliga Drottningholms (as it’s name implies) is locatedclose to Drottningholms Castle – the Official residence ofthe King of Sweden. The Royal Castle is a Unesco Worldheritage site and as spectacular as it is beautiful. It islocated approximately 15km from Stockholm and takes afew mere minutes to travel to.Ask any Swede – and they ALL know where Drottningholmis located.Most think of the Swedish Royal Family´s beautiful palacejust outside Stockholm. However, for hundreds ofthousands of golfers Drottningholm is familiar as one of thebest-known golf courses in the country. RoyalDrottningholms Golf Club''s 18 holes are laid out on crownproperty and the nearly 1000 members and many guestsplayers are able to enjoy both the beauty of the surroundingnature and the nearby Royal palace. Drottningholm hasplayed host to many major competitions – and Not becauseof its Regal connections alone – mostly due to theexceptional level and quality of golf.In addition to its remarkable and unique connection andlocality to the Royal castle, not only does Drottningholmsgolf club have one of the most prestigious and “once in alifetime” play factors, it has one of – if not – the mostexceptional range of facilities available to any golfer luckyenough to have the opportunity to play here.
The course was laid out by Rafael Sundblom and Nils Skold and opened officiallyin 1959. In some of its major tournaments, Drottningholms has enjoyed Faldo,Montgomery, Singh, Couples and Ballesteros (who is quoted as saying the coursemade him feel “like a King playing the finest greens in Europe!”) – to name but afew.Johan Benestam a renowned and exceptional golf architect was bestowed withthe envious task of designing and introducing an upgrade to this classic and muchloved course fifty years after its opening.Benestam spent many years playing Drottningholms so knew almost every inch ofthe course from a golfers perspective and was already familiar with the naturalsurroundings and the local nature all around. This allowed him a uniqueopportunity to design this world renowned area and adding to an alreadyspectacular course from a perspective of affection and challenge which othersmay not have been able to offer. In 2012, the revised course opened with a brand new bunkering scheme, newgreen areasm re-capped fairways and the introduction of modern drainage andmodern practical solutions. The old course was loved - adored even - and anymodernisation was tricky to introduce. Benestam’s process has been universallyapproved and is credited with truly bringing this world class course in line withthe world’s best.For those of you who may never have enjoyed the pre-Benestam course, the newlyupgraded course will provide an experience and round which you will trulyremember. Its trickery, and thought provoking holes and layout will have youstretching your brain as much as exerting your swing!
Above: The RoyalDrottningholmPalace
It’s a beautiful parkland courses, tranquil, peaceful and truly a wonder to the eye.The new contours, bumps and run-offs make even the simplest looking shots tricky.Although always fair and consistent, the fairways will punish wayward shots andmake sure you concentrate through the entire round, The greens with newlyintroduced complex features will make approach shots demanding and thoseinevitable recovery shots both interesting and fun.
The first nine holes are played predominantly through an open scape whereas theback nine are played through a mostly wooded environment. It works andcompliments the course perfectly engaging your brain and the layout is devilishlyclever.
Throughout the course, Drottningholm provides a memorable and exquisite round ofthe finest golf to be enjoyed anywhere. It is as challenging for modern big hitters as itis for those short game connoisseurs.
The 18th hole illustrates this point perfectly. A splendid par 3 which finishes in frontof the clubhouse terrace. Those fortunate enough to navigate through the elevatedgreen without becoming victim to the run-off will be admired and enjoy a sense ofachievement – however those unfortunate enough to miss the green will join theunderstanding spectators enjoying the view whilst sympathising with your plight…
Most visitors tend to stay long after their round – which due to the long Swedishevenings can be played late into the day – enjoying the fantastic facilities,restaurant and amenities available.
It has been said that the fairways at Drottningholms roll out like the “swell of thesea”, which is a phrase I believe perfectly explains the nature of this immenselybeautiful course. It’s natural and playable to such a high level whilstaccommodating any level of golfer – that combined with the service (which ispossibly the very best we have ever enjoyed) make this an experience you have toenjoy and savour.We feared Drottningholms golf club might be pretentious, even uncomfortable.Within seconds of entering, these fears had vanished completely. You arewelcomed as one of their own, made to feel invited and absolutely a pleasure toentertain. The smiles and warmth of the staff – everyone from greenkeepersthrough to service – is testament to the good nature and management here.The golf is truly a wonderful and memorable experience and one we look forwardto enjoying once again soon, but the lasting memory is of the sheer quality ofexperience from the entrance through to our departure. It’s a universal feelingjudging by the numerous positive reviews and thanks strewn all over the web.Drottningholms maintain and provide the highest quality experience andchallenge of golf anywhere. As Seve so aptly put it, you will feel like a “King”enjoying the welcome, challenge and splendour of this memorable and uniquelybeautiful course.
Kungl. Drottningholms GK Telephone
Lovö Kyrkallé 1 Kansli +46 (0)8-759 03 11
178 93 Drottningholm Shop +46 (0)8-759 03 14
[email protected] Restaurang +46 (0) 08-759 07 50
Course Map
Hole 5
Hole 6
Hole 7
Hole 4
Hole 18
Kungl. Drottningholms GKLovö Kyrkallé 1178 93 [email protected] +46 (0)8-759 03 11Shop +46 (0)8-759 03 14Restaurant +46 (0) 08-759 07 50
AALBORG GOLF KLUBpremiumTHE FINEST
New golf clubs and courses are always an excitingproposition, better still however is to have all those newlybuilt benefits wrapped up with a pack or two of tradition,history and established charm. ’Aalborg Golf Klub’, situatedin Northern Denmark, is one of Scandinavians hidden gems.It’s Denmark’s second oldest club having recently celebrat-ed its centenary in 2008 but feels modern, classy and in thetop-tier of virtually standard of excellence.
With absolute certainty, Aalborg Golf Club features as oneof our finest golf clubs in Scandinavia. Originally an 18 holeChampionship Course designed by John D. Harris in thelate ’60s, Aalborg has recently undergone a completerefurbishment of all its greens and tees. A further 9 holeshave been added and integrated to the already superb,existing 18 holes resulting in 3 seperate 9-hole courses,which are rotated weekly to give one 18 hole course andone 9 hole course. In other words, the 18 hole coursechanges combination every week, effectively, you have anew 18 hole challenge each week.
Each 9 hole group has its own charm, challenge andindividual features. These are carefully and beautifully man-aged holes on this exceptional course all adding that
.You finish your round completely wrapped up and captivat-ed in the experience with an immediate twinge to return andplay again. There are very few courses with that specialindescribable magic.Aalborg is distinctly Danish, though unique to its own geo-graphical and elemental location. The weather, ground,climate and environment all play their part (together withexpert management and maintenance) in creating aunique experience. Having enjoyed this marvellous courseon three ocassions, each round was completely differentand conjured its own personality to my game as though itwas alive – changing windes, temperatures all adding toits mystique. It really is one of those courses that you mustenjoy more than once to fully appreciate and understand.
All 27 holes, in whichever order- are superb. The fairwaysand greens immaculately and expertly cared for with thestunning Lake and woodland features brimming with natu-ral beauty. Although its natural and designed beauty isobvious, Aalborg is not just for decoration. It is a coursethat wants to push your game to its absolute limit if youdare.
Aalborg has signature holes described and compared tothe infamous ’Amen corner’ with some of its combinations.A highlight, is the most picturesque par 3 Hole whichforms one of the three best holes in Scandinavian, Europe-an – even World golf – courses. It brimms with stunning
The clubhouse has recently undergone extensiverenovation including a first class Proshop alongwith typical Danish Cuisine in our renowned res-taurant. Danish meatballs are (in my view, obliga-tory) on any visit to Aalborg GC while sitting inthe superb restaurant which overlooks one of thefinest finishing holes in Danish golf.
The clubhouse itself is testament to the care, at-tention and spirit of the club. You are welcomedinstantly, made to feel at home and comfortable.Along with superb golf, any club seeking to reachthe summit amongst its peers must provide botha challenging and enjoyable days visit where youleave mentally and physically satisfied and
.
Aalborg, obviously makes the grade with infiniteroom to spare. The Stunning white exterior ofthe main building complimented with its darkslate roof, though of great architectural beauty,blend in to its surroundings so feel natural and inkeeping. There is an unbelievable 26 bay drivingrange and a short game area which are worthy ofa visit alone! Genuinely amongst the very best
in the world.
Aalborg Golf club is enjoyable irrespective of yourgolfing prowess. Keen amateurs, tournamentplayers and top professionals will all be pushedto the very limit. The European Challenge tour,European Team Challenge for girls as well as theEuropean Championships for men have all beenhosted by Aalborg to great success. Its layout –in any combination – is exciting and strategic,whilst ensuring your long and short game, bigand regular hitters, competitive and friendlyrounds and players are all happy and challenged.
The holes are clever in delivering tension filleddecision making shots followed by spectaculardrives and approaches. Relentless if you areseeking to score well, but not a bully if you’relooking to enjoy the round.
Aalborg prides itself on having the most success-ful mens team in Denmark with 11 champion-ships in just 20 years. Testament, once again toboth the unique and competitive challenge thecourse provides added to its quality of facilitiesand structure.
… There is an unbelievable 26 baydriving range and a short game areawhich are worthy of a visit alone!Genuinely amongst the very best any-where in the world.
“
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www.aalborggk.dkBookings: +45 98 34 14 76
Aalborg Golf Club over the last 20 years has delivered many players to the Danish National team, and European Tour playerSøren Kjeldsen is a product of Aalborg Golf Club along with ladies European Tour winner Lisa Holm Sørensen (Finish Open).
Every visitor is made to feel 100% comfortable from the moment you enter the grounds and the level of facility is onlytrumped by the quality of service filtered down from the faultless management. Every detail and part of the club has beenconsidered and designed/ implimented to ensure each guest, visitor and obviously member enjoys every part of theirexperience. It truly is such a joy to play here and one experience we recommend you do when considering the finest golfin Scandinavia.
Aalborg city itself (as featured in the guide) provides numerous attractions and reasons to visit. At the absolute forefront ofthese is Aalborg Golf Club. It really is worth the airfare and investment in time to play (and play again) alone!
It’s serviced by the excellent Aalborg Airport just 20 minutes away and connected to most major European destinationsso is convenient and easy to get to.
In selecting the very best, we were highly critical and standards/ expectations were at the highest level. Aalborg Golf Clubis one pleasure you will undoubtably agree deserves its place at the very top of our recommendations. , golf,recreation, experience and charm combined with those uniquely Danish which make it a memorable and a ”mustplay-again” treat. It really is to go on a bucket list, more a .
Aalborg Golf ClubJaegersprisvej 35, Restup EngeDK-9000 AalborgDenmark
Telephone +45 98 34 14 76Website www.aalborggk.dk
Lübker Golf Resort is a phenomenon in golf development – incredi-ble, spectacular and generous in its capacity to provide a welcom-ing, warm and relaxing environment for golfers, visitors and anyonelooking for some serious rest and recreation.
The golf course stands out as one of the finest to be created andbuilt in Europe over the past 20 years and provides not just a ‘sec-ond to none’ range of facilities, but a challenge and golf coursebursting with attractions, tricks and intricacies where Robert TrentJones Jnr., the preeminent course designer of this generation, hasinstalled a 27-hole championship course (plus an academy layout)that has, in its short existence, garnered a collection of internation-al awards.
For a country more used to exporting golfing excellence – see im-pressive European Tour winners Anders and Soren Hansen, andmore recently Jeppe Huldahl – Lübker represents a landmark shiftin the bid to attract international golfing visitors.
Lubker was opended in 2008, yet despite this relative youth – it hasalready begin to be acknowledged as one of the best fun and chal-lenging courses to play in Europe. Golf magazine for exampleawarded Lubker “Best New International Course” ahead of DavidMcLay Kidd’s Castle course at St Andrews.
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Situated close to the east coast on the bit that juts out intothe sea about halfway up the country and very near to Den-mark’s second city, , this wonderful resort sits com-fortably on gently undulating, wooded terrain. The brainchildof the eponymous Mr Lubker, it is no more than ten minutesalong the road from Aarhus airport which is connected tomost European cities and countries.
The Sky, Sand and Forest courses, although each with a dis-tinctive accent, are all carved gently into the stunning Jutlandterrain, peppered with mature pines and apparently God-giv-en for championship golf. The local restrictions on develop-ment mean that the natural landscape is fiercely protected,and the result is a golfing experience where striking naturalbeauty is assured. It must be stated from the outset that thearchitect’s brief, laid down by the inimitable Poul Anker Lübk-er himself, was to manipulate the land to produce a coursecapable for the rigours of top level tournament golf, and itseems likely that prestigious championships are not far in thedistance. Impeccable conditioning, five star golf conciergeservices and top class facilities underscore the ethos of golf-ing at Lübker.
A deluxe spa, complete with outdoor hot tubs and traditionalScandinavian thermal experiences including ice baths, is theideal antidote for weary golfers, and also for groups with non-golfers. Visitors are accommodated in the privately ownedapartments and houses, which can be rented per night or perweek; all are within easy reach of the resort amenities, and aredecorated and furnished to an astonishingly high standard.
A development such as Lubker, with various high-end proper-ties scattered around a stunning golf course, is unlike any-thing Denmark has seen before. Financed by a flotation onthe Danish stock market and with the majority of the proper-ties sold before a sod was turned, the dream has steadily tak-en shape over the past few years as various top-of-the-rangefacilities have been completed.
Robert Trent Jones and his lead architect, Bruce Charltonused a number of extremely bold and forward thinking bunkerstyles, combined with heavily contoured greens and fairways.The forest and range and depth of trees and the use of naturalfeatures really stand out and burst through many holes – pro-viding an overall feeling of being “at-one” and not against thenatural world and with nature rather than fighting it.
Lübker Golf Resort
Trent Jones Allé 3
DK-8581 Nimtofte
+45 38 40 80 00
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The very best courses manage to piece together(like Lego…) a combination of natural obstacles,hazards and perils with deliberately tricky manmade bunkers and highlights to tease, indulge orpush your game to the limits. Lubker, absolutelymanages to fulfil even the most demanding of golf-ers requirements in terms of difficulty of play andchallenge, whilst offering the comfort, relaxationand low key round for those wishing it.
Personally, I love to fight a course and try tosqueeze every ounce of play from it – my playingpartners do however occasionally play in secondgear and test different shots on different holes toplay their round at a more leisurely pace. Lubker isgenuinely THAT good that it can deliver both at thesame time.
Lubker has been described as “Scandinavia’s Val-derrama”. As mentioned, a few minutes fromAarhus and a mere 2-3 hours from Copenhagen,Lubker is as accessible to anyone in Europe as it isenjoyable and spectacular. This flawlessly main-tained, expertly conditioned 27 hole masterpiecewill only get better and better as the years pass.
LUBKER GOLF CLUB
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Of the three nine hole courses, perhaps the For-est course is the least demanding of the threewith the Sky and Sand courses supplying thepremier pairing. They are all so brilliantly de-signed and created – that it honestly doesn’tmatter which combination of courses you play –you will be delighted and will come back formore!The best advice I can give is to try all three 9hole courses over a few days as the weather,atmosphere and ambience on any given dayserves up a new set of questions and posers.The accommodation and facilities alone makethis something special and something the familycan enjoy and indulge in.
Truly a wonderful and memorable experience –Lubker Golf quite easily is one of Europe’s bestget aways – not only one of the world’s bestgolf experiences.
Trent Jones Allé 3
DK-8581 Nimtofte
+45 38 40 80 00
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ELISEFARM GOLF CLUB
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ELISEFARM GOLF CLUB
There are a few ambitious golf clubs and courses in Swedenthat provide members and guests with a complete club experi-ence rather than just having 18 holes and a simple clubhouse.
Elisefarm ranks as one of the finest, always recognised inrankings and writers favourites. Although wanting to be individ-ual and ground breaking – we have to place Elisefarm as gen-uinely something special in terms of golfing and golf holidaydestinations and one which is a must play in Scandinavia atany time of the year.
Elisefarm is situated in the South of Sweden approximately 40minutes drive from Malmo’ Airport and about an hour from Co-penhagen. It is a modern complex with the feel and grace of atraditional establishment – but without any airs or graces. Thewelcome and quality of service and staff is exceptional and thewarmth of the greeting smiles guarantee a memorable stay orround of one of the “great” rounds of golf you will ever play.
When it opened in 2005 following an exhibition match betweenHenrik Stenson and Louise Stahle – the 18 hole layout atElisefarm was the first Hawtree golf design in Sweden sinceMartin Hawtree’s grandfather completed the Old course atBastad back in 1928.
The Hawtree family has been associated with numerouschampionship courses such as Royal Birkdale, Portmarnock,Royal Dublin, Lahinch and at Royal Melbourne to name just afew world class, legendary courses – and any potential suitorto invite Hawtree had to be willing to create a masterpiece oth-erwise Hawtree simply wouldn’t consider the project.
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ELISEFARM GOLF CLUB
Martin Hawtree, the grandson of FG Hawtree, has designedElisefarm Golf Course to display some of the recognizableHawtree bunkers and green surrounds. With careful attentionand respect for the existing landscape the course was creat-ed with the classical British golf course as it’s role model -deeply rooted in the history of the game. It is obvious thatHawtree set out to tick a few, almost impossible boxes in cre-ating something unique whilst tipping his hat to tradition andhistory. He wanted a modern club, excelling in contemporaryrequirements and satisfying the needs of today’s demandinggolfer with modern lengths, facilities and a challenge not sim-ply built upon driving the ball as far as possible, but full of sur-prise, wit, questions and strategies.
Elisefarm has a minute attention to detail – designed to fulfilthe greatest traditions of golf challenge whilst pushing theboundaries of modern golf. Everything has been designed tobe near perfect, thought through and considered. It is in thestyle of a classic Heathland course, very much in the Britishsense boasting bunkers and a layout which demands preci-sion – both off the tee and in the green areas that test yourshort game repertoire. Along with the area’s stone walls, asparse but high red fescue ruff creates a natural setting foreach hole.
The Fairways on this absolute masterpiece are laid out overrolling contours that overlook the Lake Ringsjon. During con-struction, large native and natural stones which were un-earthed were strategically placed around the course,illustrating the natural feel and to enable this renownedcourse to establish an identity all of its own.
Ponds and streams were introduced to create a golf course,possibly unlike any other which you may have enjoyed be-fore. It is a truly wondrous experience playing Elisefarm – golfwriters and experts regularly rank Elisefarm as one of the fin-est courses in the world – not simply Sweden or even Scandi-navia.
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ELISEFARM GOLF CLUB
The Hawtree philosophy of creating a fair and challenging course for all players regardless of skill level also holds true for ElisefarmGC where four sets of tees allow a choice to suit your mood or ability.
The complex not only boasts one of Scandinavia’s foremost courses, but also caters for golf breaks/ holidays. The accommodationis superb, comfortable and luxurious. The facilities absolutely what you would expect and desire from a top tier golf club and and therestaurant serves food guaranteed to satisfy even the most critical of food critics.
Though bursting with quality, style and just a general feel of superbly managed, maintained and respected grounds, accommodationand service, Elisefarm is perhaps so well thought of because its welcome and attitude to players and visitors stands as an examplein “how to do things correctly”.
You are made to feel like a member instantly with a sense of belonging and freedom which puts you at ease the moment you ap-proach and drive into the grounds. The green keepers are perfectionists and experts in golf care and upkeep – the fairways, greens– even the rough areas look pristine. Staff throughout Elisefarm are helpful, welcoming and professional – there is a sense of pridein helping to provide an experience – they all seem to understand – is special.
With several top tier and exceptional clubs to select in Scandinavia – Elisefarm stand out as a very special golf course and destina-tion. Treat yourself to a few days of superb cuisine and spectacular golf with friends. You can stay right on the golf course in excep-tional rooms enjoying a buffet breakfast followed by one or two rounds of incredible golf, a fantastic lunch and visit to the Spa andcompleting a day from heaven with a delicious three course dinner accompanied by a carefully selected bottle of wine.
It simply does not get any better than this.
Elisefarm GCPhone: +46 (0) 413 330 [email protected]
GRONHOGEN LINKS GOLF CLUBpremiumTHE FINEST
Grönhögen Golf Links Country Club
Öland lies off the coast of Smaland in the Baltic Seaand is the second largest Island in Sweden. Basically itis South Eastern Sweden on a peninsula connected tothe mainland by a bridge that spans the Kalmar Strait.The small town of Grönhögen can be found at thesouthernmost tip of the Island and the golf course herestarted out as a recreational 3 hole affair that quicklygrew into 9 holes and then into an 18 hole course
into the masterpiece of design, fluency andfluidity we see today.
It was in 2004, Pierre Fulke a three time EuropeanTour winner, revamped Grönhögen with an upgradeso mesmerising that in 2005 when it re-opened it wasgreeted with widespread excitement and acclaim asgolfers and writers began to see that this was no ordi-nary course – but something very, very special.
Niklas Fasth held off the challenge of JoachimHaeggman and Pierre Fulke himself to win the firstcompetition on the course and then, most people tooknote and began to consider this as a course to savourand be rightly proud of.Hardened and serious golfers tend to like to challengethemselves in all conditions, all course types and ex-perience those pleasures to be enjoyed when coursesare not simply flat, lush greens. Possibly the hardesttype of course to master and create for that matter, isa true Links type course – the very nature of Linksmean that the elements, the conditions and the sheertask in creating and maintaining such a course make ita mammoth operation – and one many golf course
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Grönhögen I am delighted to say is a modern masterpiecewhich has built its unparalleled reputation as one of thefinest golf courses, best experiences and superb achieve-ments of golf course design and creation that anyone hasseen. Absolutely everything about this course shoutsclass, its like a school kid who had all the odds stackedagainst him yet managed, quite remarkably to find a way,not only to achieve, but to excel at the top of all of hispeers and set new standards of playability and golf excel-lence.
Set alongside the seaside, full of Links features – includinga double green on the shoreline shared by holes 4 and 14– Grönhögen is such a thoughtful and clever course that itplays like a true game of two halves. The back nine (with 4par 5’s) is more than 1,000 yards longer than the first nine.It doesn’t feel strange or out of place, each hole in se-quence leads to the next until the crescendo and sense ofachievement you will absolutely feel when you completeyour round here.
Three of the four short holes are found on the outward halfand golfers have to wait until the home hole to completethe quartet of par 3’s. Like the par 3 9th, the 18th holeplays across water (to a spectacular island green) so a vi-cious sting in the tail awaits you if you lose concentrationor misjudge the conditions.
From the first Tee to the very last putt, Grönhögen is al-most 6,500 yards of pure adrenalin. In the finest traditionsof world class courses, this course rewards the brave andfearless with the threat of losing your card altogether if itgoes astray. It will pull and push you around the course,tempt and tease the wary and punish those who aren’tconcentrating. Its as much a strategic and mental processas it is a physical one – which is exactly what playing aonce in a life time course should be.
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The winds, sea breezes and conditions make this coursedevilishly difficult to predict and mean you are alwaysforced to question your shots and club selection accord-ingly. The views over the Baltic are awe inspiring, howeversuch is the level of challenge that you will rarely get achance to relax and admire it… Each breath of the seare-invigorates and refreshes the mind to the next hole, thenext challenge. Just when you manage to navigate a“world class” approach to the green, the pace and light-ning speed of the surface wipes any chance of a birdieaway. They are fair and consistent, but the undulation,rolls and slopes are created so naturally and in keepingwith this stunning landscape that it deceives you with acalm or straight forward hole.
Although this is a modern, state of the art course, it reliesand is designed around the natural and native land andconditions. It has natural drainage utilising the naturalground rock to maintain a balance with nature. The 60kmirrigation system sustains the lake and the natural grassesand greens, as mentioned, though tournament class arealways honest and true.
There are 86 natural and characteristic bunkers – “tvärtor-vade bunkers”. Easy to get in, but oh so hard to escapefrom. Golf Digest commented that after playing Grönhö-gen, “all other course designers in Sweden over the past30 years have been designing without vision or inspiration”– perhaps a little harsh given a handful of similar extraor-dinary courses, but understandable given the brilliance tobe found here.
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Not resting on their laurels, Gronhogen completed a furtherupgrade in 2013 on holes 4 and 14, which is the course wehave enjoyed playing and without having had the pleasure toplay the previous incarnation, I can only compliment the cur-rent layout and course for the remarkable challenge it repre-sents – it is impossible to find a flaw or room forimprovement, but I’m sure the astute management will prob-ably keep tinkering in search of absolute perfection – whatev-er that may be….
The Grönhögen Wärdshus - the restaurant serves amazingfood, made with local ingredients and is typically Swedish incharacter and ambience. Worth a visit even without the golf!Accommodation is similarly comfortable and a pleasure toenjoy making this an exceptional place to stay and enjoy formore than just one round.
With golf experiences, it has to be worth the trip and worthyof pushing and testing your game as well as the recreationalside – like playing at the Bernabau or Camp Nou for a foot-baller. If you take your golf and memories of life seriously,have golf running through your veins, then you simply have totreat yourself to a visit to Gronhogen, it’s a visit you will sa-vour.
Grönhögen Golf Links Country ClubGolfvägen 1 386 63 Öland, Sweden
Address: Golfvägen 1, 380 65 Degerhamn, SwedenPhone: 0485 - 665 995E-mail: [email protected]
Anna Nordqvist receives LPGAClassic trophy smashed in post
Swedish golfer Anna Nordqvist sealed her LPGATour Shoprite Classic victory by kissing the glasstrophy.
The world number nine's one-shot win over ChristelBoeljon in New Jersey on 31 May was a moment tocherish - her first tournament success for a year.
But the next time she saw the trophy it was in pieces- smashed in the post.
On Thursday she tweeted courier FedEx, thankingthem "for delivering my Shoprite Classic [trophy] ina thousand pieces. No words to describe it."
The use of an emoticon with tears on its face perhapsunderlined her frustration.
Her tweet of complaint has drawn comments fromsympathetic fans who have used the photographicevidence to not only question the courier, but alsothe way the trophy was packaged.
Ironically, after success in New Jersey - Nordqvist'sfifth LPGA Tour win in seven years - she said: "Ifought hard today and can't believe I'm sitting herewith the trophy."
Alas, Nordqvist may need to make a trip to her localrecycling site but maybe the $225,000 (£142,000) ofprize money she claimed softened the blow.
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D U M M Y CD U M M Y CM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S TM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T
HEN ANNIKA SORENSTAM feigned a weak-kneedwobbly walk off the tenth tee at Colonial Country Clubin the 2003 Bank of America Colonial, where she becamethe first woman in more than 50 years to play a PGATOUR event, she stepped into history and carried withher the women’s game, ushering it into a new era of
appreciation. At the same time, she also opened new frontiers forherself. By the end of that magical week in Fort Worth, Annika wasin a very different place, not just as a player, but also as a person.The game of golf—and not just women’s golf—had picked up apassionate spokesperson whose words off the golf course wouldbecome as powerful as her performances on it.
ChangergameWith unparalleled determination,
ANNIKA SORENSTAMbecame not only one of golf’s best female players
but simply one of the greatest of all time
quickly, and she chose Colonial becauseIt favors strategy over length—andAnnika has always been all aboutstrategy.Essentially, her pre-tournament pressconference for the Bank of Americabegan that January day in
The run-up to Colonial had beenremarkable. Think of the two weeks ofHype before the Super Bowl—thenmultiply it By 10 time-wise. Annika letdrop at the PGA Merchandise Show inlate January that She would beinterested in playing if offered a
W
While others tried to figure out why she wouldtake such a risk—what would it mean forwomen’sgolf, the LPGA and her own legacy if she shot86?—Annika never lost her focus. “The worstthat can happen,” she told her inner circle asShe prepared, “is that I learnsomething.” On anotheroccasion she said: “No matterwhat I shoot, Nelson[her cat] will love me.” Andas they walked to the firsttee (No. 10) in that firstround, she said to her caddie,Terry McNamara, “Nomatter where this goes, andit can go anywhere, we willfind it and hit it again.”What Annika did wastake her 4-wood, whichshe normally hits about225 yards, and rip it 252right down the middle ofthe fairway. What followedafter that was pure magic:three opening pars andthen a birdie that put heron the leaderboard. In all,she putted for birdie on all18 holes and shot a 71 thatcould have been in themid-60s if nerves hadn’trobbed her hands of someof their feel on the greens.She had won the heartsof the fans, both on siteand on TV, she knockedthe socks off the U.S.Open-sized media contingent,many of who wereunfamiliar with her game,and she bonded with her playing partners, Dean Wilson and AaronBarber. It was clear from The emotion thatthe normally stoic Sorenstam shared withthe public—from that endearing openingwalk to the tearful hugs on the finalgreen—that she was surprised by theoutpouring of respect and affection forher. She responded by showing more ofher personality than those of us whofollowed her for years
Not only did Sorenstam change, she changedattitudes as well, and that, among hernumerousaccomplishments, is why she was chosen asthisyear’s Memorial Tournament Honoree.“I wasn’t smart enough to understand it,”Scott Hoch, a PGA TOUR player who was acritic of Sorenstam receiving a sponsorexemption,said after she played Colonial. “What shedid here was great for golf. I get that now.”That Annika missed the cut after a 74 onFriday in which she was clearly playing on anemotional gas tank with the needle well on
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T EM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
Annika Sorenstam wasraised near Stockholm,Sweden.
“NO MATTER WHERE THIS GOES, AND ITCAN GO ANYWHERE, WE WILL FIND IT
AND HIT IT AGAIN.”—ANNIKA SORENSTAM
“I didn’t want it to end,” shesaid.In many ways, it never didend. Annika left Colonial in avery different place, sheddingonce and for all the shySwede who,as a junior golfer intentionallyfinished second on occasionso she wouldn’t have to givea victory speech, andemerging assomeone comfortable for thefirst time with her status as asuperstar.
She left Colonial not asAnnika Sorenstam, but asANNIKA— the one-word heroeveryone now knew. And shequickly grew into that role andembraced its responsibilities.
The same woman whoarduously avoided thespotlight for nearly a decadeon tour, saying she wanted tohelp the game with herrecords not her words, leftColonial on a remarkable path.
Along the way, she becamea leader of the LPGA, aspokeswoman for the gamewho worked tirelessly with
becoming a successful businesswoman, respected TV personality, articulatepublicspeaker and champion of junior golf as shebecame Mom to the two children that she haswith her husband, Mike McGee.
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T EM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
“I am proud of this honor,” Sorenstam said. “Ireally respect Jack and all of his accomplishmentson the course, but even more as a person. Familycomes first to him, and he does so much for kidswith his charity [the Nicklaus Children’s HealthCare Foundation] and children’s hospitals. To berecognized by a legend on his stage and greatTournament means a lot to me.”The transformation in Sorenstam left her along way from where she was when I firstinterviewedher in 1996. It was so difficult to get aquote from her directly that I had to talk to hercaddie to get something I could use in my storyback then.Her journey to Colonial began at Bro BalstaGolf Club near Stockholm, Sweden, when shewas 7 and, with her younger sister Charlotta,would ride on the pull carts of their parents, Tomand Gunilla, waiting for ice cream cones at thehalfway house.By the age of 12, she was playing golf herselfand already showing her legendary passion forpractice, honing her short game by helping pickup balls on the range. With her friends, she gotgolf balls to play with by diving into a pond onthe course and retrieving them. By 17, Annikawas on the acclaimed Swedish national team, forwhom she played from 1987-92.In 1992, she won the World AmateurChampionship and was runner-up in the U.S.
“I REALIZED THAT IF I WAS GOING TO BETHE PLAYER I WANTED TO BE, I HAD TOMAKE A 100 PERCENT COMMITMENT…”
—ANNIKA SORENSTAM
Women’s Amateur. In 1990, she brought hergame to the United States, enrolling at theUniversity of Arizona, where she was thewomen’s NCAA champion in 1991 andrunnerupin ’92, winning seven collegiate titles andsharing the 1991 NCAA Player of the Yeartitlewith Kelly Robbins. In 1994, she was theLPGARolex Rookie of the Year.Moving to the United States was key in herdevelopment. In Sweden, there is the word:“Logom.” It means “just enough.” WhenVikingswere drinking from a beer skin they wouldmutter“logom,” meaning take just enough toquench your thirst and then pass it on.And then there is this Swedish phrase:“Enough is as good as a feast.” That senseof fairness is so ingrained in Swedish culturethat
That fire first flickered brightlyat the 1995 U.S. Women’sOpen at the Broadmoor, herinitial LPGA victory. The nextyear she made it two U.S.Women’s Opens in a row atPine Needles when she hit 51of 56 fairways and wonBy six strokes. There areseveral snapshots that standout that reveal what makesSorenstam a great player andremarkable person. The first isin 1999 atthe U.S. Women’s Open at OldWaverly in Mississippi, whereshe missed the cut. Sorenstamalready had won 16 LPGAevents and two majors. Yet,she was furious that she puttedso poorly at Old Waverly. Sheskipped the next major—theDuMaurier Classic—and setabout redoubling hercommitment to the game. “Irealized that if I was going to bethe player I wanted to be, I hadto make a 100 percentcommitment to every aspect ofthe game—not just technical
Sorenstam learned howto play golf at Bro BalstaGolf Club in Sweden,then began to hone hergame at the University ofArizona.
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T EM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
Left: Annika and heryounger sisterCharlotta.
Below: Sorenstam wonthe NCAA Division IWomen’s GolfChampionshipindividual title in 1991at The Ohio StateUniversity ScarletCourse in Columbus,and she finished as therunner-up in ’92.
THE TEAM SHE PUT IN PLACE WAS PARTOF
A PLAN THAT WOULD TAKE HER TO AVERY SPECIAL PLACE IN GOLF.
I was furious with me.Late on Friday, afterher post-round practicesession, we had it outon the range. “I’m sorryif what I wrote hurtyour feelings,” I said. “But I am not sorryAbout what I wrote.” I explained that othersclose to the LPGA felt the same way I did.They wanted to see her raise her game as amarketer of the tour.“That’s not who I am,” she replied. “I’m notNancy Lopez. She’s a talker. That part cameeasily for her. I try to help the LPGA andwomen’s golf by playing great golf.” I saidthat was a fair point and that she should writethat in a column for us. With my help, that iswhat she did. A month later was the Mastersand the Golf Writers Association of Americaannual awards dinner. Annika was there toaccept the Female Player of the Year award.As a Board member of the GWAA, I wassitting at her table.Her speech was amazing—pitch perfect,recognizing all the proper people, showingemotion as she brushed away a tear andconnecting with the crowd. When she gotback to the table I leaned over and said,
as well,” Sorenstam said.She changed caddies that September, hiringMcNamara, who remained with her the rest ofher career. That winter, she sought out DaveStockton for a putting lesson and for six weekshit no other golf shots other than putts. Shortlylater, she hired Kai Fusser as her fitness coach.The team she put in place—along with HenriReis, who has been her swing coach since hermid-teens—was part of a plan that would takeher to a very special place in golf.The second window into the wonder ofAnnika comes in 2002. Then-LPGACommissioner Ty Votaw called a mandatoryplayers summit in Phoenix early in the year todiscuss how to better market the tour.On Saturday during the marketing meeting,the LPGA had its annual awards banquet andSorenstam had won them all, including PlayerOf the Year and the Vare Trophy. Her speechwas not a good effort, sabotaged by the shynessThat consumed her. It was brief, mentioned noneOf her sponsors and did little to enhance theimage of the LPGA. That seemed to me to beironically problematic for the LPGA, coming asit did at a meeting about how to better marketthe tour.
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
of the year. But she never won again.What I lost sight of was one of thethings that made Annika such a greatwinner—her complete commitment toher decisions. When she settled on aclub and on a shot, there was neverone ounce of doubt when she swungthe club. When she decided to retirefrom competition, there was a part ofher brain that retired. The hard partwas the decision. Once made, she wascompletely committed.When we finished our interviewthat Sunday night, sitting alone in aclosed restaurant at the KingsmillResort, she said to me, “What are yougoing to do?” When I asked what shemeant she said with a giggle, “You oncetold me that you only write threestories—Annika won, Annika shouldhave won or Annika didn’t play thisweek—and you said when I retiredyou’d have to retire, too.”We laughed and I told her howsome executives at an equipmentcompany whose clubs she did not playhad taken to calling me “Ronika”because I wrote about her so much.And I told her I said to the equipment
Left: Sorenstam wonher second straightU.S. Women’s Open in1996 at Pine NeedlesLodge and Golf Club inSouthern Pines, N.C.
Below: Sorenstam withher 1999 New AlbanyGolf Classic trophy.
I KNEW ANNIKA DID EVERYTHINGONLY ONE WAY—TOTALLY ANDWITH COMPLETE COMMITMENT
home run.” Without missing a beat she lookedat me and said, “Couldn’t have been worsethan the last time, could it?”At the Michelob ULTRA Open at Kingsmillin 2008, Annika took me aside on Wednesdayand told me that the following Tuesday she wasgoing to announce that she would retire fromcompetitive golf at the end of the year. I wasstunned but not completely surprised. She wasonly 38 and, along with Lorena Ochoa, stillconsidered to be the best player in the game.But Iknew she wanted to start a family. And I knewAnnika did everything only one way—totallyand with complete commitment or not at all. Itwould be competitive golf or family, but it couldnot be both.We agreed that we would do an interviewfor an exclusive story on her retirement Sundaynight after the tournament was over. What Iwitnessed over the next four days was one ofthe most remarkable athletic achievements Ihave ever seen. Annika won by six strokes,shattering the tournament scoring record,knowing—but not telling anyone—that twodays after the tournament she was going toannounce her retirement.At the time, I thought she might run thetables and win every event she entered the rest
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T EM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
Above: From left,Charlotta, Annika andcoach Pia Nilsson takea celebratory leap intothe water after Annika’s2006 ScandinavianTPC win in Sweden, anevent she also hosted.
Left: Sorenstam withthe 2001 World LadiesMatch Play Championshiptrophy, won atSohsei Country Club inNarita, Japan, afterbeating Se Ri Pak 1 upin the final.
executive that I’d write about one of their playersjust as much when they get one who wins 72times with 10 majors. I realized at that momentthat I felt the way Annika did when she missedthe cut at Colonial: I didn’t want it to end.Those stories detail the fire, the passion, thededication, the humor, the humanity, theDecency and determination of AnnikaSorenstam.Now let me share with you some numbers thatdemonstrate exactly how dominant she was.From 2001 through 2006, Annika had what Icame to refer to as her “Sandy Koufax Years.”She was as dominant in her time on the golfcourse as the old Dodgers pitchers was 40Years earlier on the baseball diamond.For those six years, Annika may have playedgolf on a consistently higher level thananyone—male or female—has ever played.From 2001-06, she competed in 124 LPGAevents, missed only two cuts, won 46 times,had 76 top-three finishes, was in the top-10 anunbelievable 102 times (82 percent) and woneight major championships.She was so good during those years that hermost memorable shots, in my mind, were herBad ones because there were so few of them.When they happened, they were startling.Annika led the tour in greens hit in regulation2001 through 2005 and was second in 2006.She shot the LPGA’s only 59 in 2001, makingbirdies on the first eight holes and 12 of thefirst 13.“If you’re kicking yourself because you didn’t
see Wayne Gretzky, Michael Jordan, SandyKoufax or Nolan Ryan in his prime, you shouldcome see Annika Sorenstam, because you’reseeing a once-in-a-lifetime excellence in aSport,” Votaw said at the time.
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T EM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
“[ANNIKA] HAD AS GOOD OF AREPEATING SWING AS I HAVE EVER
SEEN, RIGHT THERE WITH BEN HOGANAND MICKEY WRIGHT.”
—JUDY RANKIN
Sorenstam finishes thesecond round of thePGA TOUR’s Bank ofAmerica Colonial atColonial Country Clubin Fort Worth, Texas,with playing partnersAaron Barber, left, andDean Wilson.
the best in LPGA history, and she owns five ofthe six lowest season scoring averages. Her 72career victories trail only Mickey Wright andKathy Whitworth, and her 10 majors are behindonly Louise Suggs, Wright and Patty Berg andiseasily the best in the modern era, three betterthan Juli Inkster and Karrie Webb.“I don’t ever think you can say any womanplays at a man’s level because of a lot of factors,but Annika is as close as we’ve seen,” Hall ofFamer and TV commentator Judy Rankin says.“She had as good of a repeating swing as I haveever seen, right there with Ben Hogan andMickey Wright.”Two other Hall of Famers singled out herdedication and mental toughness. “When she
was on the range, it was all work,” says BethDaniel. “She played golf for one reason: Tobeat you. She wasn’t there to chat, just workand win.”“Her mind was on another level,” says JuliInkster, who snatched the 2002 U.S. Women’sOpen from Sorenstam at Prairie Dunes with abrilliant 66 on Sunday. “You could almost hearherthink. And she just about never lost her focus.”Go back to that 2003 season. While it isremembered—and rightly so—for herappearancein a PGA TOUR event, she accomplishedso much more that year. First off, she came withina couple strokes of pulling off the calendaryear Grand Slam, finishing second in the KraftNabisco Championship by one stroke andmissingthe playoff in the U.S. Women’s Open by onestroke while winning the LPGA Championshipand the Women’s British Open.That victory at Royal Lytham & St. Annescompleted the career Grand Slam, and a monthlater Sorenstam led Europe to an emotionalvictoryin the Solheim Cup in her native Sweden,the first time the event had been played anywhereother than the United States or Britain. InOctober, she was inducted into the World GolfHall of Fame. Not a bad year.“I suppose I am most proud of being in theHall of Fame,” she said of her many feats. “I havea lot of wonderful accomplishments that I nevercould have dreamed possible … the 10 majors,all the wins, Colonial, 59, Solheim Cups, etc.However the Hall of Fame covers the overallbody of work. I was able to remain consistentover my entire 15-year career and steadilyimprove my game.”That Sorenstam’s first major was the U.S.Women’s Open and that her last was the sameevent says a lot about her. It’s the hardesttournamentin women’s golf—by far. And threeconsecutive years—2002-04—Sorenstamfinishedsecond, one stroke out of a three-wayplayoff and second again before winning atNewport Country Club in 2006. That the lastshot she ever hit in a U.S. Women’s Open wasahole-out 6-iron for eagle at InterlachenCountry Club in 2008 is somehow appropriate.When I look back on Annika’s career—andother than her caddie, McNamara, I haveprobablyseen her hit more shots in competition thanany other person—the things that stand outmore than the shots and the victories are thequalities she possesses that led to those victories.
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T EM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
Above: Sorenstam’svictory at the 2006U.S. Women’s Open atNewport Country Clubin Rhode Island cameafter early-round fogdelays, 36 holes onSunday, and an 18-holeMonday playoff againstPat Hurst.
Right: Sorenstam withthe U.S. Women’s Opentrophy in 2006. Shewon the championshipthree times.
repeating swings in the history of thegame,and her commitment to the mental aspectsof championship golf was unmatched.There were times she made the late BenHogan look like a daydreamer. No oneworked harder than her—both in hittingballs and in hitting the workout room—andno one made smarter decisions on the golfcourse and then stayed totally committedto those decisions than Annika did. Shealso is remarkable for her commitment tothe team she puts in place around her.Loyalty is an Annika attribute. She has hadone swing coach—Henri; one agent—IMG;one equipment company— Callaway; andfrom 1999, only one caddie—Terry—andone trainer—Kai. Now Henri, Kai andCharlotta work at the ANNIKA Academy atthe Reunion Resort in Orlando, Fla. In anage in which many players like to blametheir failures on others— firing caddies,coaches, agents and equipment companieswhen things go wrong—Annika was alwaysabout taking responsibility. At the end ofthe 2003 season, as she was inducted intothe World Golf Hall of Fame, Sorenstamended her speech by saying: “Shortly afterColonial, Ron Sirak, a golf writer and a
friend, was quoted as saying: ‘Annika is nolongera female golfer, she is a golfer.’ Truly, that isall I
remembered—not as one of the best in thehistory of the women’s game, but as one ofThe best in the history of the game.Typically, she hopes her legacy is aboutthat logom notion of the greater good.“I guess I would like to be remembered assomeone who loved and respected thegame,”
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T EM E M O R I A L H O N O R E E D O W F I N S T E
“I GUESS I WOULD LIKE TO BEREMEMBERED AS SOMEONE WHO
LOVED AND RESPECTED THE GAME.”—ANNIKA SORENSTAM
Right: Sorenstam withJack Nicklaus.Below left: AssistantCaptain AnnikaSorenstam at the2013 Solheim Cup atColorado Golf ClubWith EuropeanCaptain LiselotteNeumann,center, and AssistantCaptain Carin Koch.Below right:Sorenstamwith Arnold Palmer.
always remembered that she didn’t make golf,golf made her. And because of that, she neverstrayed from her mission to give back to thegame. Enough is as good as a feast, the Swedessay, and in both her achievements and the wayshe has given back, Annika has been more thanenough. She has been one of the best. MTRon Sirak is executive editor at Golf World anda senior writer at Golf Digest.
M E M O R I A L H O N O R E E A N N I K A S O R
Above: The McGeesand Sorenstams posefor a family photo.From left: MikeMcGee(holding William),Ava McGee, GunillaSorenstam, JerryMcGee, Jill McGee,Tom Sorenstam andAnnika.Above right:Sorenstamhas won ESPN’sESPYAward for BestFemaleGolfer six times andfor Best FemaleAthlete twice.Right: Annika andMikewith their twochildren,Ava and William.
MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORIES1995 U.S. Women’s Open1996 U.S. Women’s Open2001 Nabisco Championship2002 Nabisco Championship2003 LPGA Championship, Women’s British Open2004 LPGA Championship2005 Nabisco Championship, LPGA Championship2006 U.S. Women’s OpenLPGA TOUR VICTORIES1995 GHP Heartland Classic,Samsung World Championship1996 CoreStates Betsy King Classic,Samsung World Championship1997 Chrysler-Plymouth Tournament ofChampions,Cup Noodles, Ladies Open,Longs Drugs Challenge, Michelob Light Classic,CoreStates Betsy King Classic,ITT LPGA Tour Championship1998 Michelob Light Classic, ShopRite LPGAClassic,JAL Big Apple Classic, SAFECO Classic1999 Michelob Light Classic, New Albany GolfClassic2000 Welch’s/Circle K Championship, FirstarLPGA Classic in conjunction with the Children’s MedicalCenter, Evian Masters, Jamie Farr Kroger Classic,Japan Airlines Big Apple Classic2001 Welch’s/Circle K Championship, StandardRegisterPING, The Office Depot hosted by Amy Alcott,Chick-fil-A Charity Championship hostedby Nancy Lopez, Bank of Montreal CanadianWomen’s Open, CISCO World Ladies Match PlayChampionship, Mizuno Classic2002 LPGA Takefuji Classic, Aerus Electrolux USAChampionship hosted by Vince Gill and AmyGrant,Kellogg-Keebler Classic, Evian Masters, ShopRiteLPGA Classic, Williams Championship, SafewayClassic,Samsung World Championship,Mizuno Classic, ADT Championship2003 The Office Depot Championship hosted byAmy Alcott, Kellogg Keebler Classic, SafewayClassicpresented by Pepsi, Mizuno Classic
2005 MasterCard Classic honoring Alejo Peralta,Safeway International presented by Coca-Cola,Chick-fil-A Charity Championship hosted byNancyLopez, ShopRite LPGA Classic, John Q. HammonsHotel Classic, Samsung World Championship,Mizuno Classic, ADT Championship,2006 MasterCard Classic honoring Alejo Peralta,State Farm Classic,2008 SBS Open, Stanford International Pro-Am,Michelob Ultra OpenOTHER VICTORIES1995 Holden Women’s Australian Open1997 JCPenney/LPGA Skins Game2001 Wendy’s 3-Tour Challenge (with DottiePepperand Karrie Webb)2006 Women’s World Cup of Golf (with LiselotteNeumann for Team Sweden)INTERNATIONAL VICTORIES1995 OVB Damen Open, Hennessy Cup1996 Trygg Hansa Ladies’ Open1997 Compaq Open1998 Compaq Open2002 ANZ Ladies Masters, Compaq Open2004 ANZ Ladies Masters, HP Open2005 Scandinavian TPC hosted by Annika2006 Scandinavian TPC hosted by Annika,Dubai Ladies Masters2007 Dubai Ladies Masters2008 Suzhou Taihu Ladies OpenOTHER CAREER HIGHLIGHTS• LPGA Player of the Year 1995, ’97, ’98, 2001,’02, ’03, ’04, ’05• LET Player of the Year 2004, ’05• Vare Trophy 1995, ’96, ’98, 2001, ’02 ’05• Rookie of the Year 1994• Solheim Cup 1994, ’96, ’98, 2000, ’02, ’03, ’05,’07• Inducted into World Golf Hall of Fame 2003• Patty Berg Award 2003• Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year2003, ’04, ’05• Bob Jones Award 2012• Old Tom Morris Award 2014
ANNIKA SORENSTAM’S CAREER RECORD
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The Bro Hof Slott :Black Tee Challenge
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Number of aircraft: 5
THE FINEST - SCANDINAVIA 2015
Publisher AP Ltd./ One off media (Spain) Sky Communications Editor Dr J Gunn Project Director J Roberts Co-ordinator Gary Little Design 70byseventy design London Art Director Marcus Lafayette Deputy Art Director Sheila Jones Photography Alan C Birch Phil Sheldon Lacoste Jeff Kelly Hugo Boss Yves Mittaz Zeke McCabe David Cannon Getty Images Augusta National Peter Dazeley Popperfoto St Andrews Uni. Victor R Caivano All of the great golf clubs featured
Contributing Writers Alistair Tait Alexandra Lyon-Dean Dan Loria Ted Jones Jnr. Katherine Crisp and material Bernard Gallacher OBE Julian Small Peter Dawson Graham Cochrane Michael Morton Niall Carroll Grainne O’ Malley Veronique Prado Lacoste Ramon Roman Paul Sanders Peter Rishworth Maria O’Connor Glenna Beasley Jochem Gelderman Sweden Golf Union -Lina Hoof` Norway Golf Federation
Iceland Golf Union - Thordur ThorsteinssonDenmark Golf Union - Mikkel NielsenFinland Golf Union - Pelti Peltoniemi
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