The PGA of Denmark have revealed an exciting new educational seminar programme focused on Junior Development for early 2020, and registration is now open for all interested delegates.

Hosted by the Himmerland Golf & Spa Resort, host venue of the European Tour’s Made in Denmark Event, the series of seminars will draw key speakers from across various coaching disciplines including kinesiology, coaching children and elite level golf.

Whilst the first day will be in Danish, the final three days will be provided in English and so interested parties from international PGA’s are encouraged to attend and engage with what will be an insightful and progressive educational event.

Seminar packages are available on a daily basis with a €150 fee per day to allow flexibility to pick and choose which events to attend.

For more information and to register, please use the links below.

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VISIT THE PGA OF DENMARK

Just recently, Martin Westphal visited the country as part of the CPG’s and Royal and Ancient’s (R&A) mission to driving the game’s development globally. This mandate is delivered by the CPG, considered experts in this field, on behalf of the Royal & Ancient.

We spoke to both Martin Westphal [MW] and the President of the Jordanian Golf Federation, Hali Alabdallat [HA], on the visit and how the two organisations will work together in the weeks to come on developing the game in Jordan.

HA: “In Jordan we have approximately 300 golfers and two facilities. The first is a 9 hole course in Oman and the second is a Greg Norman – designed Championship course with a golf academy.

“Our main missions are to have more people involved in the game of golf. This is not just in terms of participants, but also in the form of coaches, educators, referees, managers and tournament administrators as well.

“Creating a network of homegrown, Jordanian Golf Professionals is with the eventual goal of growing golf participation numbers and developing competitive, national squads that play against the very best all year round.

“We contacted the R&A to help us achieve these ambitions, particularly in helping set up an effective coach education system that will eventually produce homegrown PGA Professionals. They recommneded the CPG’s Martin Westphal to bring his knowledge and expertise in this matter to Jordan”.

MW: “My visit was an initial fact-finding mission that started at Bisharat Golf Course. I met board members of the Jordanian Golf Federation (JGF) and the General Secretary of the Jordanian Olympic Committee, Mr Nasser Majali – these conversations resulted in the JGF becoming the recognised body of golf in the country.

“My week also consisted of developing conversation with these officials on better ways to coach golf (including delivering some of my own sessions to juniors) and ways to maximise efficiency and profitability of golf facilities.

“The week was very productive and as a result, we held some excellent conversations together that will over the coming weeks and months, bear fruit in achieving the JGF’s objectives.”

VISIT THE JORDANIAN GOLF FEDERATION WEBSITE

VISIT THE R&A WEBSITE – GOLF DEVELOPMENT

Despite a challenging third round for him and the entire field, Elli showed his experience and class on the final day with sensible shot making and consistency from the tee to shoot a final round 72 (Level Par) and finish the tournament on three-under-par (284 Total).

It means the Italian has now finished Winner, Runner-Up, Runner-Up, Winner in his last four Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG] Sanctioned Pro-Am events, capping off a fine season for Elli, who juggles his playing commitments with running a coaching business:

“It has been a fantastic week here in Marbella, with great golf courses, fantastic weather and overall I feel I played very solid across the board to win.

“It is very challenging trying to balance the two commitments, but I try to play and practice as much as I can when I am not coaching, and all that hard work has definitely paid off this year”.

Behind Elli in second and third places was Francisco Lo Valvo (PGA of Spain) on five-over-par (292 Total) and British Professional Michael McCarthy on nine-over-par (296 Total).

In the team event it was exactly the same story for Team Elli (with amateurs Marian Abrashev, Aleksander Abrashev and Francesco Mandracchia), as they romped to victory with a final round score of 82 points to leave them on 332 for the tournament (-44 Total) – 27 points ahead of Team Lo Valvo in runners up.

Full Final Scores Available at cp.golf/2019Marbella

For more information visit the Tournament Hub Page https://cp.golf/2019Marbella. For more information on the CPG visit cpg.golf, or find the CPG on Twitter (@cpg_golf), Facebook (@cpg.golf), LinkedIn, Instagram (@cpg_golf) and Anchor.fm.

Visit Los Naranjos Golf Club (losnaranjos.com) and Atalaya Golf & Country Club (atalya-golf.com).

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The Old Course at Atalaya Golf & Country Club, the third course on the tournament’s rotation, proved to be a serious thorn for the entire field, with only one player (second-placed Francisco Lo Valvo) managing to shoot level-par for the day (72).

Reflecting on his round, Elli commented: “Conditions were really tough today with hard, fast and bouncy greens that made it very tricky.

“My putting was not as solid as the previous two days either, but I am still in the lead so generally I am very happy.”

In a repeat of the second round, Elli will tee it up with the rest of the field at Los Naranjos Golf Club tomorrow, as he bids to claim the inaugural title with the comfort of a nine-shot margin between him and Lo Valvo.

Team Elli (with amateurs Marian Abrashev, Aleksander Abrashev and Francesco Mandracchia) continued to press their claim for the team event title with a score of 80 points on day three (251, -35 total). They now lead nearest rivals Team Lo Valvo and Team Gedminas by 28 and 29 points respectively.

For Full Round 03 Scores Visit cp.golf/2019Marbella

For more information visit the Tournament Hub Page https://cp.golf/2019Marbella. For more information on the CPG visit cpg.golf, or find the CPG on Twitter (@cpg_golf), Facebook (@cpg.golf), LinkedIn, Instagram (@cpg_golf) and Anchor.fm.

Visit Los Naranjos Golf Club (losnaranjos.com) and Atalaya Golf & Country Club (atalya-golf.com).

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In addition to the current agreement, the new agreement provides access to all GolfBox add-on modules, which will enable the Norwegian Golf Federation and especially the golf clubs to take full advantage of GolfBox’s golf management platform.

The GolfBox platform provides a centralised golf management solution for the Norwegian Golf Federation, including delivering the World Handicap System (WHS) to Norwegian golfers from spring 2020. Moving forward, Norwegian Golf Clubs will have access to a single software solution to deliver member engagement, including members administration, tee time booking, PGA lesson booking (GolfBox ProPlanner), handicapping and tournament software.

”We are very pleased with this new 5-year agreement with GolfBox. It ensures that we continue to be at the forefront of technology advancements as a Federation, but more importantly the updated agreement also provides further access to GolfBox to Norwegian golf clubs.

“In addition, this new agreement helps us to ensure a smooth transition with the upcoming implementation of the World Handicap System in 2020” said Tor-Anders Hansen, General Secretary of the Norwegian Golf Federation.

“GolfBox is looking forward to extending our long-term partnership with the Norwegian Golf Federation”, said GolfBox Chief Executive Officer Christian Faergemann.

“We are happy with the trust the Norwegian Golf Federation continues to put in us, including our vision for the future and our focus on technology innovation.”

GolfBox is the leading software company experienced in operating a cloud-based administration platform for the golf industry, having done so since 2003. By combining its established global solutions and market opportunities they are the leading provider of handicapping services to national associations. In Europe alone, GolfBox currently supports 15+ Federations with software, servicing 1 million+ golfers and approximately 1,000+ golf clubs with handicapping and golf management solutions.

Find out more about GolfBox here

What is GolfBox’s ProPlanner?

Despite having never played the course before at Los Naranjos Golf Club, Elli played with a cool head and a tight, controlled game plan to open up an unprecedented 15-stroke margin between him and his nearest challengers Francisco Lo Valvo (PGA of Spain) and British Professional Michael McCarthy.

Following the conclusion of his round, Elli commented: “Even in these tough conditions, which have been very windy, I managed to play solid golf.

“The greens were very, very fast but I managed to give myself a lot of short putts for birdies across the day, which meant I could take the pressure away from my short game”.

It was a very similar story in the Team Event, as Team Elli – with amateurs Marian Abrashev, Aleksander Abrashev and Francesco Mandracchia – shot a second-round score of 85 points (171 total), continuing to distance themselves from their nearest challenger Team Gedminas (154 total).

Full Round 02 Scores at cp.golf/2019Marbella

For more information visit the Tournament Hub Page https://cp.golf/2019Marbella. For more information on the CPG visit cpg.golf, or find the CPG on Twitter (@cpg_golf), Facebook (@cpg.golf), LinkedIn, Instagram (@cpg_golf) and Anchor.fm.

Visit Los Naranjos Golf Club (losnaranjos.com) and Atalaya Golf & Country Club (atalya-golf.com).

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The inaugural Marbella Pro-Am, presented by travel company Golf Escapes, presents differing challenges compared to most of the Confederation of Professional Golf’s [CPG] sanctioned Pro-Am events, as competitors face continuous course alternation across the week.

This didn’t seem to faze Elli however, who plotted his way around the fast and firm New Course of Atalaya Golf & Country Club superbly, opening up a three-shot margin between himself and his nearest opponent, Francisco Lo Valvo (PGA of Spain).

“It is a golf course that suits me – it is not very long but tricky and you have to hit a lot of irons off the tee and overall I managed to play very solid golf shots” said Elli, who’s recent finishes have included a win in Lithuania and two runner-up finishes in Bulgaria and Greece.

In the team event it was Team Elli – with amateurs Marian Abrashev, Aleksander Abrashev and Francesco Mandracchia – who claimed an early 7-point lead over Team Gedminas (with amateurs Regimantas Barvydas, Tomas Bertulis and Vytautus Pliuskus), with a strong score of 86 points (14-under-par).

Full Round 01 Scores at cp.golf/2019Marbella

For more information visit the Tournament Hub Page https://cp.golf/2019Marbella. For more information on the CPG visit cpg.golf, or find the CPG on Twitter (@cpg_golf), Facebook (@cpg.golf), LinkedIn, Instagram (@cpg_golf) and Anchor.fm.

Visit Los Naranjos Golf Club (losnaranjos.com) and Atalaya Golf & Country Club (atalya-golf.com).

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The Confederation of Professional Golf’s [CPG] longstanding pairs Championship is open to male and female PGA Professionals and is a hugely popular season-starting event.

With an expanded field size of up to 128 pairs, facilitated by a slightly later date in the calendar, the Championship is further cementing its place as one of the largest Professional golf tournaments in the world.

The Championship takes place across Lumine’s Lakes and Hills courses that have also played host to events such as the European Tour’s Final Qualifying Stage, and recently won the title of ‘Europe’s Best Golf Venue 2019’ at the World Golf Awards.

“The Fourball Championship has always been a jewel in our crown combining high-level competition with a fun and relaxed atmosphere that allows PGA Members from our across our membership to spend quality time in each other’s company before the playing season gets fully underway in many of their home countries,” said CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell.

“Providing this opportunity, in conjunction with our partners at Lumine, for PGA Members to engage in international activity is an important element of the CPG’s strategy that is developing under our new name and brand.”

Calle Carlsson, General Manager, Lumine Mediterránea Beach & Golf Club, said: “We are so pleased to be welcoming the Costa Daurada CPG Fourball Championship in March as it will be a fantastic way to kick-start the golf season.

“Hosting this event will allow us to showcase not only the exceptional facilities at Lumine but also the Costa Daurada in its full capacity, which has helped affirm our position on the map as a fantastic tourist destination”.

The 2019 Championship title was won by the PGA of Spain pair of Pep Angles & Toni Ferrer, who headed up an all PGA of Spain top-three at one of the most competitive editions of the Championship yet.

To Find out More & Enter Visit cp.golf/2020Fourball

For more information visit the Tournament Hub Page https://cp.golf/2020Fourball. For more information on the CPG visit cpg.golf, or find the CPG on Twitter (@cpg_golf), Facebook (@cpg.golf), LinkedIn, Instagram (@cpg_golf) and Anchor.fm.

With thanks to Lumine Mediterránea Beach & Golf Community (lumine.com) and Sol Port Cambrils (melia.com).

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Voted for by professionals working within golf travel and tourism, this latest accolade for the Spanish destination is recognition, in part, of the extensive renovation Lumine has undertaken this year.

Part of an ongoing €2m investment programme, not only has it carried out a complete refit of the Lumine Lakes Clubhouse, it has also upgraded elements of the Hills Golf Course, ensuring the quality of the guest experience throughout the property.

As host venue for the European Tour Final Qualifying Stage for the previous two years and set to welcome the next generation of talent from across the world this November, it is further proof of the high regard Lumine is held in across the industry.

Calle Carlsson, General Manager, Lumine Mediterránea Beach & Golf Community, said: “It’s an honour to be recognised by World Golf Awards. We are delighted to have made much such an impact in the marketplace and it is thanks to the public and industry voters we can celebrate this achievement. It has been an incredible year for us at Lumine and we look forward to welcoming many more international visitors to our golf courses.

“Achieving this award is a testament to the entire team here, who are fully committed to providing a first-class service to all of our guests. Our goal is to offer a complete golf experience for every guest, that will leave them with long-lasting memories and a desire to return.”

Offering an unrivalled golf experience in the Costa Daurada for every level of golfer, Lumine is the perfect blend of challenge and reward across 45 exceptional holes. With two courses designed by World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman, the Lakes is a technically challenging 6,300-metre, par-71 golf course and the Ruins is a nine-hole layout built alongside Roman archaeological remains from the second century BC.

Lumine Hills completes the line-up, offering a 6,334-metre par-72 course in sharp contrast to the Lakes, with its incredible coastal views, set amongst leafy woods and olive plantations.

A trip to Lumine is not simply for the golf, with leisure and culture playing an integral role in the destination’s appeal. The luxury onsite Beach Club with seven swimming pools and two fantastic clubhouses, each offering first-class hospitality, make for a rich and varied stay. Nestled between three wine regions, Lumine also offers the chance to taste some of the finest produce in the world, rounding off any golfing retreat in style.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT LUMINE HERE

Located on the outskirts of Portimao, 45 minutes from Faro airport and two hours from the country’s capital Lisbon, Penina Hotel & Golf Resort provides an idyllic location to host the series of seminars, presentations and delegate activities that are synonymous with the Annual Congress.

Chief Executive of the CPG, Ian Randell, gave comment on the news: “We are very excited to be returning to the Algarve for our Annual Congress and International Team Championship this year.

“Penina’s five-star hotel and golf course will provide an exceptional experience for our Delegates and Competitors. We are thrilled to be working with the team at Penina in delivering what will be another exciting Congress, sharing knowledge across our membership and advancing our Collaboration & Digitalisation Project in conjunction with them.”

Penina’s 18-hole championship golf course, dubbed ‘The Home of Portugal Golf’ will also offer an enticing stage for the ITC. In its 31st year, the tournament provides some of the CPG’s Member Country PGA’s best PGA Professionals with the opportunity to represent their country in a team format.

Chief Operations Officer for JJW Hotels & Resorts, Ruben Paula, said: “It is a great honour to host the CPG’s Annual Congress and ITC at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort. Holding events of this scale requires extensive facilities of high quality, so Penina’s offering of championship golf and high-end hospitality means this will undoubtedly be an enjoyable week for the delegates and competitors alike.”

In combination, the Annual Congress and ITC, as well the Annual Gala Awards Supported by Rolex, consistently highlight the CPG’s Educational and Tournament schedule every year, and are sure to be another successful version of the events when they returns to Portugal’s Algarve region.

Visit the Annual Congress Hub Page

Visit the International Team Championship Page

The love.golf approach, which focuses on learning golf on the course with a group of peers rather than through technical lessons on a driving range, was piloted to a group of eight passionate Canadian coaches at Blue Springs Golf Club, Ontario, ahead of a roll out in 2020.

The pilot took place over two days and included a mix of theoretical and practical education. It was supported by the PGA of Canada and Golf Ontario, and headed up by love.golf Head Coach and Founder, Alastair Spink.

Matt Allen, Chief Innovation Officer for the PGA of Canada, who first explored the possibility of bringing love.golf to the country, commented: “There have been many attempts to grow female participation in Canada which have not worked.

“From the moment we met Alastair we saw real value in what he and love.golf are doing, and the pilot is a vindication of PGA of Canada’s belief in the concept and product. It’s a potential game-changer.”

During the second day, a number of women took part in a love.golf session so that Canadian professionals could see the initiative in practice. Afterwards, these women were invited to share their feedback and reflections with the group.

“This was truly a watershed moment for the coaches in attendance,” reflects Matt. “They have been trained to coach technique for the majority of their respective careers, so this switch to seeing the benefits of emotional and aesthetic learning was a profound one.”

love.golf Head Coach and Founder, Alastair Spink, added: “I have been blown away by the enthusiasm and appetite of the Canadian coaching community.

“Their desire and open-mindedness to try something completely different was palpable during the two days, and I look forward to helping them develop and market love.golf in the coming months.”

A series of love.golf pilots are set to take place across Canada in early 2020 ahead of a nationwide launch, underlining the initiative’s commitments to The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter.

Click here to find out more about the PGA of Canada

Click here to find out more about love.golf