THE BRABAZON
Playing The Brabazon at The Belfry has always been one of the great experiences in golf. Now more so than ever. After a £2.4 million redevelopment to prepare it for the 2001 Ryder Cup and beyond, it was officially reopened in September 1998 by HRH Duke of York to great acclaim from the golf world. Former Ryder Cup captain Tony Jacklin said: "It is a course of the highest standard. Now The Brabazon compares with places such as Pebble Beach and that makes me personally very, very happy." Brilliant young golfer Lee Westwood said: "I have played some of the greatest courses and in my opinion The Brabazon at The Belfry ranks up with the best." Tommy Horton, one of the top seniors golfers, agreed. "This golf course will fit in anywhere in the world now."
The new-look Brabazon is even more testing and visually more dramatic. Streams and lakes have been reshaped and many holes have been redesigned by former Ryder Cup star Dave Thomas, although holes recognised around the world like the famous 10th and the 18th, with its lakes and its amphitheatre around the final green, have remained as they were, breathtaking and unforgettable.
You can be sure, whatever drama we have already seen enacted here over the years, there is more to come. The Brabazon is one of the great courses in world golf. It carries a handicap restriction and, as such, if suitable for very experienced golfers.
THE PGA NATIONAL
Opened in June 1997 and designed by Dave Thomas, the younger more precocious brother of The Brabazon has already become one of the most talked about new courses in the country. Skilful use of large visible bunkering and mounding has created a very dramatic course which on some holes where there are no trees almost gives the feel of a links course. Four large lakes which are cleverly brought into play add to the immense variety of the golf on offer. The greens are large and undulating, making it a true test for top golfers. Different tee positions on each hole create various routes around the course, varying from a monster 7,072 yards from the back tees, through a still difficult 6,737 yards to a more modest 6,205 yards.
The PGA National carries a restriction and is ideal for experienced golf parties.
THE DERBY
For those who like their golf a little easier or like to get back into the swing gently, the Derby course is ideal and can be played by golfers of any.