Laguna National Chairman Peter Kwee strikes the ceremonial tee shot.
Singapore:
Tiger Woods has congratulated Laguna National Golf & Country Club on the re-opening of its Classic Course.
The layout underwent an 18-month makeover. The result is a fairer test of golf with a reduction in the number of bunkers, less severe mounding and fewer undulations on the putting greens.
To mark the official re-opening, the Asian Golf Industry Federation Golf Course Facility Member staged a commemorative event for its members.
Speaking at the dinner gathering,
Patrick Bowers, Laguna National’s Managing Director and CEO, thanked Members for their patience while the Classic Course was being reconfigured.
He said: “We appreciate the understanding that our Members have shown. We are delighted with the way the Classic Course has turned out and how it has retained its bite while also being very playable – if you’re going off from the correct tees!”
Bowers also read out a message sent by 14-time Major champion Woods, who visited Laguna National in 2011 and played the Classic Course.
Woods said: “Congratulations on the return of the Classic Course. I have fond memories of my visit to Laguna National … and the warm and kind hospitality afforded to me.
“I also have vivid memories of playing the Classic Course, especially the par-three third hole where I needed to hit a three-wood!
“I’m pleased to hear that you now have a new third hole! I look forward to returning to Singapore and playing the new Classic Course in the near future.”
Lunch was served at a specially-erected Classic Course View Deck with panoramic vistas of the course after which Laguna National Chairman
Peter Kwee struck the ceremonial tee shot.
The mood of a fun-filled day was captured by
Paula Chepelsky, the reigning Women’s Club Championship winner. She said: “What a fantastic day! Congratulations to all those involved in the organisation and execution.”
Patrick Bowers and Tiger at Laguna National in 2011.
Long-standing member
Dicky Goh and his wife,
Chen, echoed those sentiments.
Goh said: “Thanks to the Laguna National management for making the effort to connect with members. It was much appreciated.
“Chen and I have been playing the new Classic Course holes since they were released partially and we think the club has done a marvellous job.
“Overall, the Classic is more forgiving to social golfers like us yet still challenging enough off the blue and competition tees. The number of unseen bunkers are much reduced.”
