Moscow, Russia: Designed by 18-time Major champion Jack Nicklaus, Raevo Golf & Country Club has entered Golf World’s Top 100 Courses in Continental Europe list in 18th position, the highest ever new entry for a new golf course. The course also topped the list of Russian entries and marked the first time that Russian clubs had been included in the rankings.
Raevo is a private members club and offers a high quality, family-orientated and welcoming community in Moscow. The property is managed by IMG, a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
Iain McInally, the Club’s General Manager, said: “The vision of Raevo is driven by our stakeholders who conceived the project and have brought it all to fruition. It has reached this stage through the engagement of Jack Nicklaus, and all required resources have been provided throughout to create something very special.
“For a golf course in Moscow to have received the level of acclaim and interest internationally before its opening is unprecedented, and to have gained the recognition as 18th best in Continental Europe and first in Russia is testament to this vision and drive.
“My role now is to take this and create a club that is befitting of the asset and infrastructure – to focus at all times on the vision and values of absolute quality and to lead the teams that will deliver this.
“The main feature of Raevo will always be the golf course, but every other aspect must match the overall quality of facility created. There are many studies and examples to show that the influence of ‘golf’ within any resort is greater than its operational value alone – for instance bedrooms within hotels on a prestigious golf resort will sell for a far higher price than equivalent rooms locally and this effect is strongest in particular with real estate where the value of property is not only higher as a result of the golf course but enjoys a greater protection against market downturns, increased rental returns and quicker resales.”
McInally said IMG can help bring a wealth of benefit to Raevo, extending to management practices, marketing reach and access to industry information.
McInally said: “From a club perspective, it brings a platform of direct benefits for our members. IMG have a network of 200-plus Prestige golf and resort venues worldwide that offer preferential access to members of Raevo, including venues such as Monte Rei in Portugal, Ba Na Hills in Vietnam, Ile aux Cerfs in Mauritius, Le Golf National in Paris, Turnberry in Scotland and Emirates Golf Club in Dubai.
“IMG also promotes and manages events locally such as Moscow Fashion Week, Taste of Moscow, UFC fights along with tennis and other sports events at which Raevo members can be afforded exclusive privileges.”