As forecasted, rain started to pour Wednesday morning during the NH Collection Open Pro-Am – 11 litres which have not affected the superb Cabell B. Robinson layout.
This is no surprise, and the result of the maintenance team’s thorough preparation of the course for its first European Tour Event. “We have been working on drainage measures for the last month, such as green and fairway aeration in case of eventual rainfall” explains La Reserva de Sotogrande Director Juan Álvarez. “The greens are cut at a speed of 11 to 12 and, although the rain will soften them up, they will be firm during the weekend as the forecast improves. In any case, the ball rolls very true.”
Western wind (poniente) over 20 miles per hour is expected on Thursday which could toughen the course considerably. “Our fast and slopey greens become a real challenge with poniente”, adds Álvarez.
La Reserva has done a tremendous job putting the course in top condition in less than two months under Head Greenkeeper José María Menacho. The maintenance team has been increased by 7 members up to the 23 who are currently working non-stop to present a perfect course. Amongst the improvements purposely made for the occasion is the new practice area to the right of the first tee.
“We have a very high year-round maintenance standard, so we didn’t need to make many changes. We are particularly grateful to Toro for providing us with the necessary equipment to cope with an event of this magnitude”, concludes Álvarez.