The past week has seen the LET visit a new city, Pattaya, through the inaugural Ladies European Thailand Championship at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club.
This is not the first time the LET has visited Thailand, as the Thailand Ladies Open was held in Bangkok 12 years ago, in 2005, however Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club has given the LET a wonderful location to host a significant tournament. The venue has been first class with a wonderful clubhouse, course and practice facilities, not to mention the beautiful hotel D Varee right on the beach in Pattaya.
The golf course has proved to be a challenging experience. On first inspection, there were many that thought that the length may not be long enough to test the top players. However, at the start of the final round, there were only six players from the original field of 126 who were under par. The firm greens coupled with unpredictable winds on a cleverly designed golf course tested the competitors to the full.
The experience was second to none, from the welcoming staff and caddies to caterers and it is no surprise that Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles.
The flag ship of the course is of course the club house. This magnificent structure has provided an amazing base to host a top championship and we are all grateful for the welcome given by all.
There is no doubt that Pattaya is a hidden gem in the golfing world. With over 30 first class golf courses all within 45 minutes of Pattaya it is amazing that the area has been hidden away for so long.
With such great transport facilities, beaches, hotels and other entertainment facilities available in the area, everyone is looking forward to visiting the area in 2018 and in further years to come.
Article by Richard C Talbot with editing by LET
