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World Kids Golf by Amendoeira Golf Resort 2024

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The World Kids Golf has maintained its status as the first Portuguese junior international event to count towards the World Amateur Golf Ranking.The World Kids Golf by Amendoeira Golf Resort was again held in Silves, Algarve, from July 24th to 26th. Golfers from nine countries participated, showcasing an impressive increase in numbers and diversity. Talented and young golfers competed on the renowned Faldo Golf Course and O’Connor Jnr Golf Course, representing nations such as Portugal, Spain, Belgium, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, Norway, and France.

World Kids Golf in detail

The tournament has maintained its status as the first Portuguese junior international event to count towards the World Amateur Golf Ranking. Despite the emergence of other youth events in Portugal, World Kids Golf by Amendoeira Golf Resort has always stood out, offering a professional experience to its participants. From learning to give TV interviews to managing their equipment with a caddie, young golfers gain invaluable insights into professional golf, ensuring a high-quality experience for all participants.

The event started with a fun pitch-and-putt tournament for parents and children at the Amendoeira Golf Academy’s 9-hole course. However, the competition quickly heated up as the first round of the 13th edition began on Wednesday.

Sanctioned by the Portuguese Golf Federation and recognized by the R&A, the event featured male and female players in age groups ranging from under 10 to under 18. Notably, the under-16 and under-18 categories were combined this year, with all players competing from the challenging ‘white’ tees.

Tournament Director Nelson Cavalheiro explained, “To ensure we meet the minimum participant numbers required for the World Amateur Golf Ranking points, we combined the under-16 and under-18 categories. All players competed this year from the ‘white’ tees, making it even more challenging.”

The competition ended with an awards ceremony and dinner. This year’s changes, including the adjusted timing, added to the event’s unique charm, creating an intriguing and memorable experience for all involved.

For the final results, click here. 

The golf courses

The young golfers competed on two of the finest courses in the Algarve: the Faldo Golf Course and the O’Connor Jnr Golf Course. The Faldo Course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, features elevated greens, numerous bunkers, and beautiful views of the Algarve countryside. It is known for its challenging layout, making it a perfect test for these aspiring professionals. The O’Connor Jnr Course, designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr, is characterized by its wide fairways, large fast greens, and various water features. Its slightly hilly terrain and stunning views make it a favourite among golfers of all talents.

For those looking to experience these world-class courses, Tee Times Golf Agency offers exceptional packages that include accommodation and unlimited golf at the Amendoeira Golf Resort. With Tee Times, golfers can enjoy a seamless booking experience and access to some of the best golf courses in the Algarve, providing an exciting opportunity for all golf enthusiasts.

With 34 participants representing nine nations, the World Kids Golf by Amendoeira Golf Resort 2024 celebrated young talent, sportsmanship, and the unyielding spirit of golf.

Photos by: Carlos Sousa.

Golfing in the Azores: an Atlantic haven

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Golfing in the Azores: perfect for golfers and nature lovers, as it boasts three exceptional courses and a variety of activities. Nature is on full display in the Azores, an archipelago in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean. The island’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity provide an unparalleled golfing in the Azores experience amidst breathtaking scenery. This destination is perfect for golfers and nature lovers, as it boasts three exceptional courses and a variety of activities. At Tee Times Golf Agency, we pride ourselves on offering exclusive packages, ensuring our guests enjoy this paradise at the highest level and feel privileged.

Reaching the Azores

Travelling to the Azores is an adventure that can be undertaken by air or sea. Major European and North American cities offer regular flights to the islands, with airlines like SATA Azores Airlines and TAP Air Portugal providing convenient routes to Ponta Delgada, the capital of São Miguel, and other islands. Alternatively, cruise ships frequently visit the archipelago, offering a picturesque journey through the Atlantic.

The Azores are celebrated for their awe-inspiring landscapes, from verdant hills to dramatic volcanic formations. On Santa Maria Island, visitors can unwind on warm white sand beaches and explore vineyards cascading down the slopes like giant staircases. São Miguel, the largest island, captivates with the stunning Sete Cidades and Fogo Lagoons, geysers, hot springs, and volcanic lakes. The Central Group—comprising Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and Graciosa—presents a harmonious mix of history, culture, and natural wonders. The Azores enjoy a mild climate, making it a perfect year-round destination for golfing and other outdoor activities. Activities, like whale and dolphin watching, hiking, and savouring local specialities like São Jorge cheese, add to the allure.

Golfing in the Azores

The Azores boast three remarkable golf courses, each offering a unique combination of challenging play and scenic beauty. These courses are not just about the views but also about the thrill of the game, making them a must-visit for any golf fan.

Furnas Golf Course: nestled on São Miguel Island near the renowned Furnas Valley, the Furnas Golf Course is a testament to the island’s volcanic origins. Designed by Mackenzie Ross and later expanded by Cameron Powell, this 18-hole course features undulating fairways bordered by towering cryptomeria trees. Known for its Scottish character and superb greens, Furnas provides a British golfing experience in the Azores.

Batalha Golf Club: also on São Miguel, Batalha Golf Club offers 27 holes spread over 120 hectares of rolling hills with stunning ocean views. Designed by Cameron Powell, the course features wide fairways, expansive greens, and contoured bunkers. Each hole presents a unique challenge, with the 6th Tee of the B loop offering an especially memorable view. The clubhouse at Batalha is ideal for relaxing after a round or hosting special events.

Golfe da Ilha Terceira: located on Terceira Island, this golf course presents a par-72 layout extending over 6,332 yards. The fairways, lined with cryptomeria trees, and the challenging par-4 5th hole make this course a favourite among golfers. The club’s pro shop, stocked with a wide range of golf equipment, is a popular visitor stop.

Tailored golf packages by Tee Times Golf Agency

To experience the best golfing in the Azores, Tee Times Golf Agency offers customised packages that combine rounds at these stunning courses with comfortable accommodations and additional activities. Whether planning a week-long golfing vacation or a shorter getaway, Tee Times ensures an unforgettable experience in this Atlantic paradise.

With its natural beauty, diverse activities, and exceptional golf courses, the Azores are a unique destination for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure. Discover the enchantment of these islands and indulge in a golfing experience like no other.

Valderrama shines: the economic impact of LIV Golf Andalucía

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The LIV Golf Andalucía at the Real Club Valderrama has once again underscored the immense potential of sporting events in boosting tourism and economic growth in Andalucía. The regional Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, Arturo Bernal, highlighted in dialogue with ‘La Voz de Cádiz’ the tournament’s significant contribution to promoting Andalucía as a prime sports tourism destination. This year’s event is projected to generate an impressive economic impact of around €30 million, according to the Junta de Andalucía, a promising sign for the region’s financial future.

During the final day of the competition in San Roque, Cádiz, Bernal highlighted the significance of the Costa del Golf. This renowned destination gained iconic status following the 1997 Ryder Cup. He noted that the tournament showcases world-class golfing, is a powerful economic driver for the region, and is a superb platform for promoting sports tourism, reaching over 360 million viewers across 180 countries.

LIV Golf Andalucía: a premier global event

Bernal praised the LIV Golf Andalucía as one of the premier global sporting events, asserting that such prestigious tournaments rightly belong on the Costa del Golf in Andalucía. The region’s long-standing partnership with the Real Club Valderrama and the broader golf industry generates approximately €3 billion in revenue annually. Bernal assured the Andalusian government’s unwavering commitment to supporting major sporting events, a reassuring sign for the future of sports tourism in the region.

Alongside key figures such as Francisco Javier Ros Rodríguez, the Junta de Andalucía’s Deputy Delegate in the Campo de Gibraltar, and Tania Barcelona, the Regional Delegate for Tourism, Culture, and Sport in Cádiz, Bernal attended the tournament where Sergio García triumphed, winning in a thrilling playoff.

The Real Club Valderrama’s reputation

The Real Club Valderrama, with its exquisitely maintained fairways and challenging yet enjoyable 6356-meter par-71 course, is widely regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the world. Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course’s exceptional design and storied history make it the perfect destination for golfers of all skill levels. Its unique features, such as the iconic 17th hole, add to the allure of the course and the tournament.

Tee Times Golf Agency offers the best packages for those looking to play at this wonderful course and experience one of the finest golf designs in the world. Booking a package with Tee Times ensures a memorable golfing experience in one of Spain’s premier destinations.

Photos by: LIV Golf.