Phnom Penh, Cambodia: Vattanac Golf Resort, one of Asia’s most distinctive golfing venues, has joined the Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF).

Located 45 minutes from downtown Phnom Penh, the resort features two 18-hole courses sculpted by Faldo Design, as Associate Business Member of the AGIF.

The club is managed by Troon International, the international operating division of Troon, an Executive Member of the AGIF.

Owned by Sam Ang Vattanac, the facility is committed to placing Cambodia on the global golfing map.

Karl Whitehead, General Manager at Vattanac Golf Resort, said: “We are proud of the facilities we have. Once travel restrictions ease, we very much look forward to showcasing our two outstanding Faldo Design courses with golfers from around Asia, and beyond.”

Both the East Course and West Course provide spectacular settings around famous cultural expressions that include scale model replicas of Khmer historical architectural sites, such as Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear Templeand Bayon Temple.

There is also a statueof the great historical King Jayavarman VII as well as a Terrace of the Elephants-inspired statue.

Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo said: “By integrating cultural inspiration into the landscape, the courses have a real sense of place and their local features help to create an unforgettable experience.

“The West Course complements the East Course magnificently with its fluid shaping giving the design its own identity.

“Much like the East, the West Course project focused heavily on celebrating the amazing culture in Cambodia and Vattanac Golf Resort’s surrounding environment to create the course’s truly unique character.”

A strategic layout that utilises dramatic water features, creative bunkering and various forms of native fauna,the East Course was the first course to open at Vattanac Golf Resort in May, 2019.

The West Course has distinctive differences from the East Course. Opened in October, 2020, it’s defined by narrower and more undulating fairways, a variety of unique water features and testing Paspalum greens.

Another unique characteristic at Vattanac Golf Resort is the Dragon Lake, located in the centre of the course, creatingvarious challenges on a player’s way to the green.

In between the exciting on-course features, three crafted wooden tee-houses keep guests hydrated in Cambodia’s tropical climate.

Richard Walne, AGIF President, said: “With two fabulous Faldo Design courses, Vattanac Golf Resort has quickly established itself as one of the region’s most attractive getaways and is playing a leading role in developing golf in Cambodia.

“We’re pleased to welcome them to the Asian Golf Industry Federation as a Facility Member.”