Fota Island gets nine new holes
Jeff Howes Golf Design completes works on additional new nine holes and short Game Academy at Fota Island Golf Resort, Ireland
Jeff Howes Golf Design has recently completed work on an additional new Championship standard nine holes and a short Game Academy at Fota Island Golf Resort, Cork. The course is now open for play and the Official Opening is taking place 20th August 2007 in combination with a European Seniors ProAm.
The new developments are the latest project to be undertaken by Jeff Howes Golf Design at Fota Island. The Resort was host to the Irish Open in 2001 and 2002, following a re-design of the course by Jeff Howes.
“This new nine hole addition comprises mature woodlands and a man-made lake which the existing 18 holes blends perfectly with and we are confident that in a few years it will be almost impossible to tell the difference between the 18 hole golf course and the nine hole extension. The highlight of the extension will probably be the 7th, where the second shot to the green is played over a quarry and will be a very enjoyable hole for all types of golfers. Overall, this nine hole addition will ensure that Fota Island will remain one of Ireland’s best golf resorts” said Jeff Howes, Managing Director, Jeff Howes Golf Design.
Commenting on the new developments at the Resort, resident Pro, Kevin Morris said “Like the existing course, the additional nine holes are demanding but fair, being very well bunkered and requiring accurate tee shots and very precise approach shots into the greens. In addition the short game academy is a tremendous boost to the Club, allowing players to really sharpen their skills from 80 yards in, which is the weakest part of everyone’s game, whether they like to admit it or not!”
“I’ve been at Fota for 13 years now and it’s wonderful to see how the course has developed over that time into one of the top tier courses in Ireland” concluded Kevin Morris.
The Resort views the additional holes and the Academy primarily as an opportunity to increase the Club’s capacity, providing additional revenue streams and greater flexibility for members, hotel guests and on-site Lodge owners.
“Jeff Howes and his team have been instrumental in developing Fota into one of Ireland’s best regarded courses and we’ve been delighted to work with Jeff again, following his highly regarded course re-design here in 2000” said Jonathan Woods, General Manager, Fota Island Golf Resort.
Jeff Howes Golf Design – August 2007
