Els Club Teluk Datai is ‘Best New Course in the World’
The Ernie Els-designed Els Club Teluk Datai in Malaysia has been recognised as ‘The Best New Golf Course in The World’ at the inaugural World Golf Awards.
Just two weeks following its official opening, Ernie Els’ stunning Langkawi layout, which sits amidst tropical rainforest stretching to the shores of the Andaman Sea, scooped the much-coveted accolade, voted upon by golf travel executives and members of the media.
“To come away with this award gives us great confidence in what has been created and the experience we offer our guests at The Els Club Teluk Datai”, commented David Townend, Senior Vice President, The Els Club Malaysia.
“The island of Langkawi is one of Malaysia’s treasures and to receive such an accolade fills us with a great sense of pride and achievement.”
This award is validation of both the vision of the ownership group, Destination Resorts & Hotels and the quality of our team’s delivery on site" Townsend added: “We are also moving forward with two other Els Club Malaysia properties on the mainland, The Els Club Desaru Coast and The Els Club Desaru Valley, which will complete an unrivalled golfing proposition in South East Asia.”
“This award is validation of both the vision of the ownership group, Destination Resorts & Hotels and the quality of our team’s delivery on site,” said Bruce Glasco COO & Managing Director International Division, Troon Golf.
“Last weekend’s achievement will certainly help drive awareness and grow confidence amongst consumers and the trade. The addition of a world-class golf experience to the island of Langkawi will enhance the economic impact from golf tourism, improving hotel and airline bookings, as well as local leisure and F&B revenue.”
In further recognition The Els Club Teluk Datai also collected the ‘Best New Golf Course in Asia’ award.
Other Troon managed properties had reason to celebrate as Costa Navarino collected ‘Greece’s Best Golf Course,’ The Address Montgomerie, Dubai claimed ‘UAE’s Best Golf Course’ and Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort won ‘Morocco’s Best Golf Course’.
Involving the leading 130 nations which are shaping the future of golf, the inaugural World Golf Awards were designed to celebrate and reward excellence in golf tourism, world-class courses and golf destinations.
Part of the long-established World Travel Awards, ‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’, it is hoped the ceremony will raise the customer experience and stimulate domestic and international golf travel markets.
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James Savage
Former equipment editor of NCG. Inconsistent ball-striker and tea-maker.