Hanoi, Vietnam: Four-time Major champion and World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els has set foot in Vietnam for the first time to survey his latest project: The Els Performance Golf Academy – Vietnam (EPGA – Vietnam).
Els was given a warm welcome to the township masterplan at Ecopark that is located on the borders of Hanoi and Hung Yen Province.
“Selecting any partner for Ecopark is a decision we make from both the head and the heart,” said Dao Ngoc Thanh, Vihajico’s CEO. “Ecopark is a legacy development, designed for the generations of today, tomorrow and thereafter and we take great care with each decision and every detail. Ernie’s attributes as a master golfer, designer and a family man strike the perfect balance for Ecopark.”
Els took time out to inspect progress at the site and also hit the inaugural tee shot at the academy in view of dignitaries and presented Dao Ngoc Thanh with the traditional gift of the driver that was used to hit the first shot.
“Vietnam is one of golf’s most vibrant markets right now and we are proud to have forged a partnership with Ecopark,” said Els. “We take great pride in our business partnerships and this is no exception. I can see Ecopark quickly establishing itself as a major force in Vietnam’s golf landscape.”
Ecopark comprises a broad residential component, strategic commercial districts and a distinct educational hub from primary level all the way to international higher-education standard. The EPGA – Vietnam aims to become the foremost golf academy in the region, dedicated not only to enhancing golf performance, but creating an environment framed by world-class service and hospitality.
The range of amenities on offer at the Els Performance Golf Academy includes a grassed practice tee and fairway, nine-hole par-three academy course, performance gymnasium, bio-mechanical swing studios with video analysis, putting lab, dedicated short game practice area, a large contoured putting green and physiotherapy treatment room.
There is also a 30-bay shaded practice tee with Titleist practice balls, academy terrace cafe, and business lounge and conference room.
“Ecopark stands for investment in the future, and we want to mirror that with our own activities,” said Els. “If we can get golf into schools and encourage youngsters to take up the game, there are hundreds of social benefits. Golf teaches discipline, sportsmanship, integrity, camaraderie to name but a few and we want the next generation to have these in abundance. We want people here, we want them enjoying what Chairman Ha has envisaged.”
Respected golf tuition expert Wayne Johnson will head up the team at EPGA – Vietnam alongside Asin Golf Industry Federational Executive Member Troon Golf, one of the world’s leading management companies, whose direction across agronomy practices, operations, service and hospitality standards will enhance the guest experience.
The EPGA – Vietnam is scheduled for opening in the second quarter of 2016.