The NH Collection Open, a new dual-ranking event split equally between the European and Challenge Tour categories, will be held on April 3-6 at the La Reserva de Sotogrande Club de Golf, in the southern Spanish region of Andalucía. The prestigious Cabell Robinson layout will be tested this week and will “pass the test with flying colours”, according to Tournament Director José María Zamora.
José María Zamora: “The course is in top condition. It will be staging the International Spanish Amateur Championship this week, featuring the top European amateur players, and is sure to pass the test with flying colours.
“The rough is not overly penal, and will be left as is for the NH Collection Open in April. The practice tee has been reseeded with ryegrass and so will some tees, probably on the par 3’s. The greens are currently quite fast (12). The European tour will need to control the speed during the tournament, due to the windy conditions in the area.
“Everybody at La Reserva de Sotogrande is committed to the tournament. We really appreciate their cooperation which makes us feel confident that the new event will be a great success.”
Four-time national champion Santiago Luna is a big fan of the Andalusia track where he often enjoys practicing. In addition to winning the Spanish Championship through three decades (1988, 90, 92 and 2000), Santi has lifted six international trophies, including the 2013 Scottish Senior Open, and is delighted to have been invited to the inaugural NH Collection Open.
“La Reserva is a great layout where wind is a big factor. One day the breeze might blow from the east (levante) and the next from the west (poniente), so you get to play two completely different courses.
“Most fairways are generous, except on holes #1 and #11, and give you a feeling of space. The big slopey greens are a challenge, if you don’t place the ball on the right platform you might struggle to make par. #7 is a beautiful hole, a reachable par 5 with a view to the sea. #6 is a long, challenging par 3, the other par 3’s are downhill with tricky greens.
“The NH Collection Open is a bonus for this area and it would be great to see it return many more years. We need to keep promoting the Costa del Sol as a major golf destination and this event will help showcase our golfing facilities to the world.
“I believe that this initiative by NH Group and Sotogrande will mark a big step forward for Spanish golf, proving that by doing things properly, good tournaments can be organized even in these difficult times.
“I wish to thank both NH Group and Sotogrande, with whom I have a very special relationship, for inviting me to play. I am confident that their initiative will be well-received by the players, although I realize that schedules are planned at the start of the season and it’s difficult to fit in new events.”