Inspirational

The final DP World Tour chapter for golf icon Bernhard Langer

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Bernhard Langer, a golf legend with an illustrious career, will make his final appearance on the European Tour at the BMW International Open in Munich starting Thursday (3 July). This marks the end of an era in European golf as Langer, a player who has left an indelible mark on the sport, bids farewell to the tour.

Langer’s career, spanning five decades, includes 42 titles on the DP World Tour, making him Germany’s most successful player and second only to Severiano Ballesteros in titles won. He was also the first golfer to be ranked world number one, a testament to his exceptional skill and determination.

At 66, Langer continues to compete on the PGA TOUR Champions, where he holds a record 46 career titles. His final appearance on the European Tour at Golfclub München Eichenried marks his 513th tournament. Reflecting on this milestone, Langer shared his mixed emotions with the DP World Tour. “I don’t know yet how I will react,” he admitted. “I’ve never said goodbye to anything so far in terms of golf. This is going to be a first experience and I have a feeling it’s going to be very emotional.”

Bernhard Langer and his time in Portugal and Spain

Despite never securing a victory in Portugal, Langer’s success in Spain is noteworthy. He claimed the Spanish Open in 1984 and 1989, the Volvo Masters in Andalusia in 1994 and 2002, and the Madrid Open in 1990. These victories solidified his status as a global golf icon and endeared him to Spanish golf fans.

Earlier plans for his farewell at the Masters Tournament in April were delayed due to an Achilles tendon injury sustained while playing pickleball. Remarkably, Langer returned to competitive play less than three months post-surgery, continuing to excel on the PGA TOUR Champions.

Langer’s return to the BMW International Open, where he last played in 2012 and finished second five times, brings both excitement and challenge. The course, now longer than in past years, poses a significant test for him. “I’m getting shorter, and the course is getting longer and that’s not a good combination,” he noted. His return to this prestigious event after a long hiatus is a moment of anticipation and excitement for all golf fans.

Playing in front of a home crowd holds special significance for Langer, as the venue is near where he began his golfing journey. “I grew up about 45 minutes from here,” he explained in dialogue with DP World Tour. “I have a lot of friends, some relatives, and people who have supported me for many years in the game of golf. It’s the only one I haven’t won yet in Germany. So it was always tricky, but I’m glad to be back.”

Joining Langer are fellow German golfers Marcel Siem and Martin Kaymer, adding to the sense of a fitting and emotional farewell for one of golf’s greatest players.

The team at Tee Times Golf Agency would like to salute Bernhard Langer for his exceptional career on the European Tour. His dedication, skill, and, above all, his unwavering sportsmanship have inspired golfers worldwide and helped shape the game’s spirit.

Photo by: Revista Fairway.

Driving greatness: the impact of World Golf Awards

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The 11th annual World Golf Awards, a prestigious event that sets high standards in the industry, will be held on November 21-22, 2024, on the scenic island of Madeira.

Since its inception in 2014, the World Golf Awards have become a benchmark for excellence in golf tourism and a prestigious gathering of the industry’s top courses, destinations, and tour operators. This exclusive annual event brings together the crème de la crème of the golfing world, including VIPs and leaders from the golf tourism sector, to honour outstanding achievements and set new standards in the industry.

Tee Times Golf Agency has garnered significant accolades, being named Portugal’s Best Inbound Golf Tour Operator in 2020 and 2021 and Portugal’s Best Outbound Golf Tour Operator in 2022. This recognition underscores the agency’s commitment to delivering exceptional service in a country renowned as a premier golf destination. Portugal has frequently been honoured as the World’s Best Golf Destination, adding prestige to these awards.

World Golf Awards: the importance of exemplary service in golf tourism

Providing exceptional service is paramount for golf tour operators. Tee Times Golf Agency goes beyond this, offering personalised experiences that cater to golf enthusiasts’ unique needs. Our dedication has not just set them apart in the competitive field of golf tourism, but it has also created a buzz among golf enthusiasts. A tour operator’s role extends beyond booking rounds; it involves creating unforgettable golfing experiences, ensuring seamless logistics, and delivering unparalleled customer service.

Shaping the future of golf

The World Golf Awards are not just a celebration; they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of golf tourism. By recognising excellence, these awards drive standards of quality and innovation across the industry, inspiring hope for a brighter future. The rigorous voting process involves golf travel and tourism professionals, ensuring that only the best are acknowledged. This year, Tee Times Golf Agency is in the running for Best Tour Operator in Europe 2024 (you can vote here), a testament to our continuous pursuit of excellence.

Acknowledging leaders in golf tourism

These awards significantly raise industry standards by spotlighting leaders in golf tourism. With extensive media coverage from partners like Destination Golf, TV5Monde, Bloomberg, and CNBC, the awards reach a global audience, reinforcing their status as the ultimate accolade in golf tourism.

Tee Times Golf Agency’s consistent recognition by the World Golf Awards highlights our vital role in the industry and our unwavering commitment to providing top-tier service. As we contest for Best Tour Operator in Europe 2024, our story continues to inspire excellence and innovation in golf tourism.

Tee Times highlights Portugal and Spain in the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention

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Carlos Ferreira, CEO and founder of Tee Times Golf Agency, and Jorge Diogo, Director of Sales and Marketing, recently represented the agency at the 15th IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC) held from June 17-19, 2024, at the Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa in Boyne Falls, Northern Michigan. This prestigious event is a pivotal gathering for the golf tourism industry, bringing together prominent golf resorts, clubs, hotels, tourist boards, and other suppliers from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.

The IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention is known for its highly structured format, facilitating pre-scheduled meetings between suppliers and buyers over two days. This setup fosters meaningful business relationships and networking opportunities. The convention started with a golf tournament at two of Northern Michigan’s premier courses, followed by social functions, including a Welcome Reception and a Farewell Evening function. Delegates enjoyed buffet lunches and evening meetings, ensuring ample informal networking and discussion opportunities.

IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention opportunities

Carlos Ferreira and Jorge Diogo seized the opportunity to connect with top tour operators. They successfully showcased the exceptional experiences that Tee Times Golf Agency offers in Portugal, Spain, and other destinations. They effectively highlighted the luxurious golf holidays available through the agency, emphasising their wide range of golf packages, top-class courses, and comprehensive facilities. As an IAGTO member, Tee Times ensures a seamless booking experience and unparalleled golf trips, a testament to our proven track record.

 

Our agency specialises in providing tailored golf holiday packages that cater to every golf enthusiast, from solo players to professional groups. Whether it’s the sun-soaked courses of the Algarve and Costa del Sol, the vibrant streets of Lisbon and Madrid, or the serene landscapes of the Canary Islands, Tee Times ensures a golf trip that exceeds expectations.

During fantastic days, we made valuable business connections at the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention, enjoyed the camaraderie, and shared our experiences with colleagues and friends. We had the opportunity to play golf, participate in the convention’s dinners and activities, and strengthen existing partnerships. This personal touch underscores Tee Times Golf Agency’s commitment to delivering exceptional golf tourism experiences and the warm, welcoming nature of the industry. Congratulations to the organizers. Thank you very much for receiving us and making us feel at home. See you next year!