Spain’s La Manga Club has joined the golfing world in paying tribute to former Ryder Cup player and leading golf course architect Dave Thomas following his death at the age of 79.
After an illustrious career as a professional which included four Ryder Cup appearances, Thomas turned his hand to course design and created more than 100 courses around the world, including La Manga Club’s popular West Course.
The 6,347-yard par-72 lay-out was built in 1991 and is regarded by many players as their favourite of the three championship courses at the award-winning venue in Murcia, offering a unique setting, outstanding views and emphasis on accuracy and course management rather than length.
Covering a variety of terrain, much of it in pine woodland, the course examines every element of a golfer’s game with changes in elevation, undulating fairways and quick greens before the crowning moment – the stunning vista offered from the 18th tee, looking across the resort to the sea beyond.
As well as the UK and Europe, Thomas also designed courses in Africa, China, Japan and South America, with his most renowned venues including The Belfry’s Brabazon Course, four-time host of the Ryder Cup, De Vere Slaley Hall, San Roque and Terre Blanche.
Gary Silcock, director of golf at La Manga Club, said: “Dave was both a great golfer and designer, and it’s very sad to hear that he has passed away.
“He brought such a lot to the game during his playing career and that continued when he retired with his work as a golf course architect, especially in Spain.
“It was a great honour for La Manga Club when he agreed to design the West Course and you only have to look at the feedback we receive to see what a good job he did. It is the highest rated of all our courses and continues to give real pleasure to everyone who plays it.”
La Manga Club is regarded as Europe’s premier sports, leisure and lifestyle resort and continues to set the benchmark for destinations of its kind across the continent and beyond.
The resort boasts unrivalled facilities as a sport and leisure venue including three 18-hole championship golf courses, a 28-court tennis centre and a 2,000sqm spa and fitness centre. It also offers the choice of a five-star hotel, four-star serviced apartments and townhouses, more than 20 bars and restaurants and great fun for children.