Ryder cup course re-opens at gleneagles at weekend

This weekend marks the official re-opening of the PGA Centenary Course at The Gleneagles Hotel, venue of the 2014 Ryder Cup.

The PGA Centenary, which will see the golfing great of the US and Europe do battle over the three day tournament, has been under maintenance since October 2011 to allow for extensive course modifications, devised in consultation with course designer Jack Nicklaus. 

It will re-open to the public on Saturday, allowing golfers the chance to experience the Ryder Cup course for themselves in the two-year run-up to the tournament.

Over 50,000 tonnes of earth have been moved at the course over the past six months, with 30,000 square metres of turf laid, and 1,000 tonnes of new sand used in bunkers.

The improvements include the installation of a SubAir system – an aeration and moisture removal system – on all 18 greens in addition to the putting green. 

Substantial changes have been made to the layout of several holes – with the most dramatic alterations apparent on the 9th and 18th. Drainage in all bunkers has been improved using the “Better Billy Bunker Method” developed at Augusta National.  

Stuart McEwen, Gleneagles’ Director of Golf, said: “It’s been a challenging but hugely rewarding six months for all involved in the redesign of the PGA Centenary Course. 

“We are thrilled with how the golf course is shaping up and the recent changes made will certainly make a big difference, particularly the 18th.  By successfully completing the redesign changes now, thousands of golfers will be able to enjoy playing the golf course prior to the 2014 Ryder Cup. I’m excited about getting out there for a game – the golf course looks in terrific condition and will only continue to improve.”   

Scott Fenwick, Golf Courses & Estate Manager, said: “Some of the technology we’re using really is at the cutting edge. We’re the first club in the UK to have a fully installed SubAir system on all 19 greens – which should help the greens withstand some of the vagaries of Scotland’s climate.

“We’re also the first in Europe to use the “Better Billy Bunker” drainage method, developed by former Augusta superintendent Billy Fuller.  

*Don’t forget that the revamped PGA Centenary belongs to 2-FORE!-1 – as does the other two Gleneagles layouts (King’s & Queen’s) and is available to play for half-price with a 2-FORE!-1 voucher. To book a tee-time on the PGA Centenary, or any Gleneagles course, contact  0800 704 705 or visit www.gleneagles.com