|
The falcon may have swooped down on Abu Dhabi less than 10 years ago, yet a plan that was hatched in 1992 is what sets this course apart from its rivals in the UAE. The giant bird of prey – under whose wings the clubhouse is based – dominates the landscape as it stands imperiously overlooking the fairways, but it is the gentle natural beauty of the course that leaves a lasting impression.
Like a woman who has succumbed to the temptation of plastic surgery, many of the UAE’s manicured courses – although exquisite in appearance – are almost too perfect.
This, though, could certainly not be said of Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which is reaping the rewards of the seeds that were sown 14 years ago.
The par-72, 7,400-yard, National Course looks like it has been there for decades and has aged gracefully, bristling with so much greenery it is hard to believe you are in fact in the middle of a desert. An irrigation system, pumping out 2.5 million gallons of water a day, has transformed an arid landscape into a colourful garden, rich in vegetation, shrubs and ornamental trees.
Rows of mature trees, brought to life by twittering birds, are spread along many of the lush fairways that meander around seven salt-water lakes which, although easy on the eye, are quick to punish wayward shots.
Swathes of vibrant bright crimson Ipomoea Biloba climbing vines are dotted throughout the course, often flanking the fairways and constituting the rough. Looks can be deceiving, as the tangle of vines that support the tropical carpet of colour are extremely tough to play out of.
The Ipomoea Biloba make their greatest impact at the par-three 12th where they are a sight to behold, rather than fear.
The hole is undoubtedly the greatest contribution of Peter Harradine, the renowned designer behind more than 160 courses in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, including Jebel Ali and Doha.
Cascading down a rock wall at the back of the green, the showy flowers provide a stunning backdrop as you stand 183 yards back on the tee. A fountain spouting water from the lake that extends to the edge of the green adds to the scene, and your dread. Three large bunkers cradle the narrow roller-coaster green, making accuracy paramount if you are to stand any chance of a birdie.
No doubt spectators will hone in on this hole next January when Martin Kaymer returns to defend his Abu Dhabi Golf Championship title in the first event of the 2009 European Tour schedule.
A host of the world’s top players will also be chasing a share of the huge prize fund, which will surely help the tournament build on the large crowd it attracted last year and consolidate its status on the international golfing calendar.
Lakes, lightning-quick undulating greens and the strategically placed bunkers at the National Course provide a stern enough test, but work has recently been carried out to make the course even more fearsome, ensuring returning visitors are given a stiffer, yet still fair, challenge.
The imposing image of the stone falcon clutching a huge golf ball, which seems carved out of the 1970s, gives Abu Dhabi Golf Club an iconic symbol that distinguishes it from other courses. The TV cameras will love it, but I’m sure what will keep the world’s best players coming back to Abu Dhabi is the more understated beauty of the course itself.
Green Fees
To play in the winter at the weekend (Thursday, Friday and Saturday) costs Dhs 450 for 18 holes and Dhs 270 for nine. The off-peak rate is Dhs 395/245. During the summer it costs Dhs 280 for 18 at the weekend and Dhs 185 for nine, while off-peak it costs Dhs 220/150.
Equipment Hire
A buggy with GPS costs Dhs 50 for a full round and Dhs 35 for nine holes. Trolleys can also be hired for Dhs 20/10. To rent a set of Callaway X16 clubs costs Dhs 120, while shoes can be borrowed for Dhs 60.
Training Facilities
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which is managed by Troon Golf, has an extensive range of facilities, including the largest range in the Gulf at 350 yards. The double-ended range is floodlit and allows golfers to tee up on grass for the cost of just Dhs 20 for a bucket of balls.
The academy also features an 18-hole putting green, chipping greens and practice bunkers. A range of tuition packages are available to suit any requirement, however an individual lesson costs Dhs 230 for one hour and Dhs 120 for 30 minutes, while a playing lesson costs Dhs 695 for 18 holes and Dhs 370 for nine.
The 19th hole
The clubhouse is just as impressive inside as it is outside. Beneath the falcon’s wings are three floors of lounges and restaurants, all featuring panoramic views of the course. Two stylish restaurants serve up Mediterranean dishes and sushi, while traditional fare can be enjoyed in the less formal cafe.
The clubhouse also has two bars, one of which features a snooker table. The frustrations of a gruelling round can be forgotten at the Country Club, which has a stylish outdoor pool, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. Elsewhere, the club boasts a state-of-the art gym, squash courts and a four floodlit tennis courts, including a 600-seater stadium court.
Membership
A golf and country club package, which includes use of a wide range of leisure facilities, costs Dhs 12,500 per annum for men and Dhs 10,000 for ladies, plus a Dhs 5,000 joining fee.
A family ticket costs Dhs 17,500, plus Dhs 6,000 joining fee, while juniors can join free at an annual rate of Dhs 3,500. To join the country club costs Dhs 7,000, plus Dhs 1,500 joining fee, while for families it costs Dhs 8,000, plus Dhs 2,000 joining fee.
What to wear
Rubber-soled golf shoes or soft spike are essential and the usual golfing attire, such as collared polo shirts and tailored shorts and skirts, are expected.
How to get there
From Emirates Towers, take the Shaikh Zayed Road and head for Abu Dhabi. At the first roundabout take the left exit for Abu Dhabi International Airport/Khalifa City. Turn right at the next roundabout and follow signs for Abu Dhabi Golf Club.
More information
Tel: 02 5588990
E-mail: info@adgolfclub.com
www.adgolfclub.com
*All prices and information correct when first published in June, 2007.
Have you played this course? Do you find its facilities to be accessible? Are the fees fair, low or high? How would you compare it to other courses in the country? Which is the best course in the UAE? Share your views with us.
Send us your comments
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Gulf News may edit comments for length and clarity but will not change the tone of the message. Comments will only be accepted if all fields (including name) are filled correctly and the message isn't abusive, defamatory or offensive. The Gulf News website will only print your first name along with your comment. Please state in the message if you wish to remain anonymous. All comments sent may be forwarded for use in the Gulf News newspaper.
|
