In the last two years, golf course renovations remained the most coveted actions/plans according to ASGCA. Turf conditioning and golf course design are still among the TOP 3 aspects of golfers where to play golf.
Slowly, sustainability will also be one of the most important aspects. It is not an exaggeration to say that Millennials (born between 1980-2000) are the core sustainability target market. They are also the main segment of the new generation of golfers.
They spend their money on ethical and sustainable experiences. Such attitudes lead to an active lifestyle and eco-friendly transport behavior too. For Millennials wellness is a daily, active pursuit.
The notion of sustainability is not a new thing for Quinta do Lago. In 2014, I wrote:
“As part of a commitment to the environment and to a sustainable golf course, Quinta do Lago will plant more than 2,000 trees in the next 5 years. “
Quinta do Lago is working closely with GEO Foundation and following its OnCourse environmental stewardship program for the last couple of years.
Now Quinta do Lago has reached another milestone in sustainability development.
Quinta do Lago – South Course – New look & sustainability
Recently, Quinta do Lago invested €7m in its South Course to elevate the playing experience and further enhance the Portuguese resort’s environmental credentials.
An 8-time host of the Portuguese Open, the popular layout reopened on September 1 following a major overhaul over the last 18 months.
Among the improvements made, all of the South Course’s
- fairways,
- bunkers,
- tees and green surrounds have received an upgrade,
- with subtle changes also being made to a number of holes to enhance the golfing experience.
All 48 bunkers on the course, which was designed in 1974 by William Mitchell, have been renovated to their original size, with new drainage and sand added.
Several bunkers previously within the pine tree canopy have been adjusted to give access to the green and two bunkers relocated to favor the modern game.
In addition, the lakes on the 3rd and 17th holes have been upgraded with new retaining walls giving a sharp modern look consistent with the other lakes on the course.
The fairway on the eighth hole has been softened and a number of pine trees relocated to allow greater access to the green; and golfers will face a new challenge on the 16th hole with the lake behind the green brought into play, adding drama to the closing holes.
Sustainability efforts & investment
Sustainability was a goal throughout the project, with Quinta do Lago golf course superintendent Mark Tupling and his team working with the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) and local non-profit company VitaNativa to record and enhance environmental stewardship across the golf courses.
Water management has been a key element of the changes made with new Irrigation Pumps being installed along with enhancements to the existing system – giving greater control and saving precious resources.