Belfry man is new director of golf at la manga

Experienced professional Gary Silcock has become a part of La Manga Club’s illustrious golfing history after being appointed as the new director of golf at the luxury resort in Murcia, Spain.

Silcock has a proven track record in the golf industry having worked at a number of top resorts worldwide over the last two decades including St Andrews’ Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, PGA National Ireland and, most recently, at The Belfry – the setting for four Ryder Cups.

The Scot took up his new role in the new year and joins a prestigious list of names to be associated with the award-winning venue including Gary Player (La Manga Club’s first director of golf), Arnold Palmer (winner of the 1975 Spanish Open and re-designer of its South Course) and the late Severiano Ballesteros – the resort’s touring professional from 1980-85.

With facilities including three 18-hole championship courses and a nine-hole academy course, and having hosted the Spanish Open five times from 1973-77, La Manga Club is regarded as one of Europe’s foremost sports destinations and Silcock is relishing the chance of a playing a key role in its continued success.

Silcock said: “La Manga Club is a name that is synonymous with golf and sport, not just in Europe but around the world, and it’s a great honour to be working here.

“Some of the biggest names in the game have been associated with the resort and it has always been a venue that I’ve admired and respected.

“Having worked for some top destinations in several different countries, I feel I have a lot to offer in in improving the service and the overall golf experience that La Manga Club can provide. It’s a great opportunity and I’m looking forward to a new challenge.”

Silcock’s arrival comes at an exciting time for La Manga Club with the five-star venue having celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2012, and he faces a busy time in his new role over the coming months.

Europe’s top amateur golfers will travel to La Manga Club at the end of next month to take part in the 2013 Copa S.M El Rey – the Spanish International Amateur Championship – on its renowned South Course from February 27 to March 3.

In addition, the resort will stage the Ecco Tour’s Nordic League Winter Series for a fourth time from March 12-22, and as well as hosting the Swedish PGA and the 17th edition of the popular Addison Lee Footballers’ Classic later this spring.

La Manga Club boasts unrivalled facilities as a sports and leisure destination 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 provides a rewarding holiday experience for adults and children alike.

*For more information and to book call 0034 968 17 5577, email reserve@lamangaclub.com or visit www.lamangaclub.com