Inspirational

From Postage Stamp to Turnberry: the extremes of Royal Troon at the 152nd Open

Posted on by

The 152nd Open Championship, the oldest and most prestigious tournament in golf, will take place at the iconic Royal Troon Golf Club from July 18 to 21.

The 152nd Open Championship, the oldest and most prestigious tournament in golf, will take place at the iconic Royal Troon Golf Club from July 18 to 21. As the year’s final major, this historic event promises a week filled with thrilling competition and memorable moments on one of the world’s most challenging courses and connects you to the sport’s rich legacy.

Royal Troon (par 71), a venue hosting The Open for the tenth time, has seen several great champions such as Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Bobby Locke, Justin Leonard, and most recently, Henrik Stenson in 2016. This year’s The Open promises to be just as thrilling with a star-studded lineup that includes Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, Bryson DeChambeau, Ludvig Aberg, Jon Rahm, Viktor Hovland, Brooks Koepka, and Collin Morikawa. And, of course, Tiger Woods. We can’t wait to see what this edition has in store!

Royal Troon extremes

Royal Troon, a Scottish course steeped in history and tradition, is a treasure trove of secrets and stories that have shaped its legendary status. The course boasts two particularly notable holes among its many renowned features: the sixth and the eighth. Each offers a unique challenge and a distinct place in the Open Championship history, promising an intriguing and exciting experience for all.

At 601 yards, the sixth hole at Royal Troon is the longest in Open Championship history. It demands precision and power from the tee, with an arrow-straight drive needed to land between fairway bunkers on both sides. The second shot, typically with a fairway wood, must be aimed slightly left to avoid the right-side bunker, setting up a soft pitch to a narrow green framed by picturesque sand dunes.

The eighth hole, the “Postage Stamp,” is the shortest in Open Championship history, measuring just 123 yards. And from the front tee to a short flag, it’s just 99 yards. Originally called “Ailsa” for its perfect view of the rocky islet of that name, it earned its current moniker when William Park described the green as “a pitching surface skimmed down to the size of a postage stamp” in Golf Illustrated. The tee shot is played from high ground over a gully to a long, narrow green set into a sandhill. Bunkers on the left and a large crater bunker guarding the approach add to the challenge, making accuracy paramount. Over the years, this tiny target has been the downfall of many top players, underscoring its reputation as a deceptively tricky hole.

As the world’s best golfers gather at Royal Troon, Tee Times Golf Agency extends its best wishes to all participants and spectators. We hope you enjoy a spectacular week of golf at the year’s final major. May the players find inspiration in the rich history of this remarkable course, and may the fans revel in the excitement and beauty of the game.

Photos by: Royal Troon.

Finca Cortesin and the 2023 Solheim Cup: a golf championship venue like no other

Posted on by

Finca Cortesin, nestled in the charming town of Casares on the Andalusian coast, stands as a unique gem in Tee Times Golf Agency‘s Spanish collection. Spanning 215 hectares, this opulent golf resort is divided into six grand areas: an internationally acclaimed hotel, an exceptional residential offering, a championship golf course, an extraordinary spa and sports area, a stunning beach club, and an exclusive shopping gallery.

The resort’s exceptional site allows easy access to Marbella, the capital of Costa del Sol, and Puerto Banús and Sotogrande, two of the Mediterranean’s most significant marinas, for unforgettable Spain golf holidays. The Malaga International Airport is just a 50-minute drive away, and Gibraltar’s airport is even closer, at a 15-minute drive.

Finca Cortesin Golf Course: a renowned design

Finca Cortesin’s golf course, designed by Cabell Robinson, is world-renowned, having hosted the Volvo World Match Play Championship three times (2009, 2011, and 2012) and, most recently, the Solheim Cup in 2023. This event marked Spain’s first time hosting the prestigious tournament, held from September 18 to 24, 2023. The competition saw Europe’s top female golfers face off against the United States, culminating in a historic tie, the first in the Solheim Cup’s history. The European team retained the cup thanks to Carlota Ciganda’s decisive putt on the 17th hole.

Golf Digest ranked Finca Cortesin among the best golf courses in Spain. The 18-hole course harmoniously integrates the natural Mediterranean landscape, offering an aesthetically stunning and challenging golf experience. The meticulously maintained fairways and greens and the perfect climate provide an ideal setting for year-round golf.

The resort’s hotel, ranked among the world’s top 50, ensures unparalleled luxury. Upon arrival, security guides guests to the appropriate parking area, where service assistants take care of their golf equipment, providing a seamless and opulent experience.

Finca Cortesin and sustainability

Finca Cortesin’s dedication to sustainability is unwavering, earning the prestigious GEO Certified® seal in July 2023. The resort’s golf course sets a benchmark, using 100% reclaimed water from nearby Manilva, surpassing the 50% requirement set by ACOSOL for efficient water use. Advanced water management techniques and weather monitoring systems ensure optimal water usage year-round, reflecting our deep-rooted commitment to the environment.

Finca Cortesin is not just a golf destination but a complete resort experience. It offers natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and world-class golf. It is one of the best high-level experiences for Spain golf holidays with Tee Times Golf Agency.

Photos by: Finca Cortesin & LPGA Tour.

The Algarve: your ideal destination for the best golfing experiences

Posted on by

https://www.teetimes.pt/slideshow/pictures/course/36/portugal-golf-quinta-lago-north-img8.webp

The Algarve, easily accessible from major European cities, is nestled in Portugal’s southernmost region and stands out as one of Europe’s premier golf destinations. With its stunning coastline, year-round mild climate, and plethora of world-class golf courses, it’s no wonder the Algarve attracts golf enthusiasts from around the globe.

The Algarve’s unique appeal lies in its exclusive collection of over 40 golf courses, each offering distinct challenges and breathtaking views. Among these, the Quinta do Lago stands out with its meticulously maintained greens and fairways. Nestled in the picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park, it offers a serene backdrop of lagoons and coastal pine forests.

For those seeking a championship-level experience, the Dom Pedro Victoria Golf Course, designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, is a must-visit. This course, which hosts the prestigious Portugal Masters annually, offers wide fairways, strategically placed hazards, and expansive greens, making it a challenging and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.

The Algarve’s golf designs

The Algarve’s golf courses are not just about the game; they are about the experience. The Vale do Lobo Ocean and Royal Courses offer stunning views, with several holes set along the coastline, providing a dramatic and unforgettable golfing experience. Luxurious amenities, including top-notch clubhouses, fine dining, and spa facilities, ensure that golfers and their families can relax and enjoy their stay.

Courses like Monte Rei Golf & Country Club present challenges with their undulating terrain and well-placed bunkers. This Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is known for its meticulous design and impeccable maintenance, offering an actual test of golfing skill.

The Algarve’s allure extends beyond its world-class golf courses. Visitors can explore charming towns and pristine beaches and indulge in exquisite Portuguese cuisine. The region’s rich history and culture add another layer of appeal, making it a perfect destination for a golfing holiday and a memorable vacation experience full of exciting possibilities.

Tee Times Golf Agency can make all your golf dreams come true with about forty courses along the coastline. Whether you would like to play some rounds in Albufeira, Faro, Tavira, Lagos, or any other spot, let us take you to the best golf courses in the Algarve area.

The Algarve is a golfer’s paradise. It offers a blend of world-class courses, scenic beauty, and luxurious amenities, making it one of Europe’s top golfing destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice, the Algarve promises an unforgettable and reassuringly memorable golfing experience.