2024 Morocco-America Friendship Cup

November 6-14, 2024

ABOUT THE FRIENDSHIP CUP

After the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War in 1775 and the signing of the Declaration of Independence a year later, the United States desperately needed friends. Fortunately, the young country found one right away in the Kingdom of Morocco. Its leader, Sultan Mohammed III, decreed in 1777 that his nation open its ports to American ships. That same year, he made Morocco the first country in the world to recognize U.S. independence. Then in 1786, the Kingdom executed a treaty of peace and friendship with the nascent nation. Renegotiated in 1836, the pact remains in effect to this day, making America’s relationship with Morocco the longest unbroken one in U.S. history. Not surprisingly, leaders from both lands describe the relationship between America and Morocco as “special.”

That close connection is also inspired the establishment of an annual golf tournament, staged for the first time in January of 2023. In many ways, the competition, which is called the Morocco-America Friendship Cup and features players from many of the most esteemed golf clubs in America, celebrates that longstanding link. The event is also designed to highlight the Kingdom as a tourist destination and entice American travelers to visit the North African land and experience its people, its natural beauty and its many cultural riches. In addition, the new competition seeks to honor the legacy of Sultan Mohammed III, the man who first established relations with America, as it also pays tribute to the late King Hassan II, who also prized the special connection between Morocco and the U.S. - and who came to see golf as a way to further advance ties between those two lands while promoting tourism in the Kingdom.

— John Steinbreder

THE COURSES

Royal

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1974, Royal Golf Dar Es Salam boasts 45 holes over three courses, spread over 440 hectares of cork oaks, local flora and waterways. A favorite of King Hassan II, the Green Course was designed for fun rather than competition, ideal to warm up and stretch out the kinks from travel.

Known for its variety, with many greens hidden behind doglegs and rolling fairways, the Blue Course is home to the prestigious Lalla Meryem Cup, a staple on the Ladies European Tour. The 18-hole, par 72 course was renovated in 2019 by Cabell Robinson, a longtime associate of Trent Jones.

The well-known Red Course at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam is home to the Hassan II Trophy, named for the Moroccan monarch who commissioned Trent Jones to create the course, and is now a stop on the PGA Champions Tour. Though designed by RTJ, he never saw the final completion of the layout. As it was being renovated in 2016 by architect James Duncan in partnership with His Royal Highness Moulay Rachid, Duncan discovered the original plans for the course in the archives of Cornell University. They depicted greens much larger than what were originally built, so Duncan implemented the expansion of the greens as RTJ intended as part of the final renovation.

Michlifen Golf Course, Ifrane

Enjoy a round of golf with the breathtaking backdrop of the Atlas Mountainsat the Michlifen golf course. The first Jack Nicklaus Signature mountain course in Africa, the 18-hole course is located at an altitude of 1650 meters (roughly 5,000 feet), amid stunning mountain landscapes with evergreen oak and cedar forests.

Royal Golf Marrakech

Royal Golf Marrakech is the second oldest course in Morocco. Inaugurated in 1927 by the Pascha of Marrakech, the layout was designed initially by Gustave Golias, whose passion for botanicals carries through to today, with some individual plants reaching nearly a century old and still line the course. It was further updated with the assistance of British Open Champion Arnaud Massy in 1933. A favorite course of His Majesty Hassan II, Royal Golf Marrakech has hosted many figures from history, including Winston Churchill and Dwight D. Eisenhower. In 2007, an additional 9-hole course was added by Gert Watine and Thierry Sprecher. In 2018, a renovation of all three nines was overseen by Stuart Hallett and Jonathan Davison.

ACCOMODATIONS

Fairmount La Marina Rabat-Sale, Rabat

Discover a world of luxury and sophistication at Fairmont Rabat, a five-star hotel that stands as a beacon of elegance in Morocco’s capital city. Located the heart of Rabat and overlooking the historic Royal Palace, the Fairmont blends contemporary design with the rich cultural heritage of the region. Each meticulously appointed room and suite offers a haven of comfort and style, while the hotel’s amenities include gourmet dining options, a rejuvenating spa, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

Michlifen, Ifrane

Michlifen: your mountain resort in Ifrane. Looking out over the enchanting town of Ifrane, it is a haven of sophistication with elegant architecture and refined interiors, seamlessly blending modern comforts with timeless charm. This resort also offers a retreat into nature, with opportunities for outdoor adventures and leisure. Whether indulging in world-class spa treatments, teeing off at the scenic, Jack Nicklaus golf course, or simply basking in the tranquility of the setting, Michlifen promises an unparalleled escape.

The Oberoi, Marrakech

Relax and unwind at The Oberoi Marrakech, a luxurious sanctuary situated within the captivating landscape of Morocco. Set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, this 5 star resort redefines sophistication with its exquisite architecture, lush gardens, and sumptuously appointed accommodations.

ITINERARY

NOVEMBER 6 - Departure

• Depart JFK or IAD in the evening for an overnight flight to Casablanca via Royal Air Maroc.

NOVEMBER 7 - Casablanca

& Rabat

• Arrive in Casablanca in the morning. Make your way through passport control and meet your driver outside the airport.

• Visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque, the largest in Morocco and the third largest mosque in the world that non-Muslims are allowed to enter. Able to accommodate up to 105,000 in prayer, this marvel of modern Moroccan architecture is the work of hundreds of expert craftsmen from around the country, many of them donating their work.

• Journey to Rabat, savoring a gourmet box lunch along the way. Drive time: 1 hour.

• Check into the Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Sale.

• Discover a world of luxury and sophistication at this five-star hotel that stands as a beacon of elegance in Morocco’s capital city. Located in the heart of Rabat and overlooking the historic Royal Palace, it seamlessly blends contemporary design with the rich cultural heritage of the region. Each meticulously appointed room and suite offers a haven of comfort and style,while the hotel’s amenities include gourmet dining options, a rejuvenating spa, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

OPTIONAL: In the afternoon, head to the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam for 9 holes on the Green Course. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. in 1974, Royal Golf Dar Es Salam boasts 45 holes over three courses, spread over 440 hectares of cork oaks, local flora and waterways. A favorite of King Hassan II, the Green Course was designed for fun rather than competition and is ideal to warm up and stretch out the kinks from travel.

• That evening, head into Rabat’s medina for a welcome dinner at Dar Chrifa (dinner included, jacket required, tie not required). Dar Chrifa is a hidden gem whose history and architecture have been preserved with contemporary elements, creating a majestic setting that is both charming and edgy, thanks to designer Amal Guessous. It is also noteworthy for the exceptional Moroccan cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chef Rachid Agouray.

• Overnight in Rabat at Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Sale.

NOVEMBER 8 - Rabat

• Play a friendly round at the Blue Course at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam. Known for its variety, with many greens hidden behind doglegs and rolling fairways, the Blue Course is home to the prestigious Lalla Meryem Cup, a staple on the Ladies European Tour. The 18-hole, par 72 course was renovated in 2019 by Cabell Robinson, a longtime associate of Trent Jones.

• Enjoy lunch at Le Clubhouse Robuchon, which offers Mediterranean cuisine and views of the courses (lunch included).

• After lunch, tour the nearby First Tee facility, one of six in the Kingdom and a testament to the desire by the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation to grow the game in that country.

• In the evening, head to dinner at the beautiful Al Marsa, a Mediterranean seafood restaurant with stunning views of the Marina Bouregreg that specializes in fresh, locally-caught seafood (dinner included).

• Overnight in Rabat at Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Sale.

Hassan II Mosque

Fairmount La Marina Rabat Sale

NOVEMBER 9 - Rabat, Meknes, & Ifrane

• Play Round One of the Friendship Cup at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam Red Course. This well-known layout is home to the Hassan II Trophy, named for the Moroccan monarch who commissioned Trent Jones to create it, and is now a stop on the PGA Champions Tour. Though designed by RTJ, he never saw the final completion of the track. As it was being renovated in 2016 by architect James Duncan in partnership with His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid, Duncan discovered the original plans for the course in the archives of Cornell University. They depicted what were initially designed, and Duncan implemented their expansion as part of the final renovation.

• Pick up a quick box lunch before checking out of the hotel and heading to Morocco’s premier winery, Chateau Roslane, located in Meknes. Drive time: 3 hours.

• Enjoy a wine tasting and dinner (dinner included). Nestled in the picturesque region of Meknes and surrounded by rolling vineyards, it is renowned for producing superb wines that embody the essence of the terroir. With a commitment to craftsmanship and a fusion of traditional and modern viticulture techniques, Chateau Roslane offers a unique and immersive experience for wine enthusiasts and is a testament to the thriving wine culture in the heart of Morocco.

• After dinner, make your way to Michlifen, your mountain resort in Ifrane. Looking out over the enchanting town of Ifrane, it is a haven of sophistication with elegant architecture and refined interiors, seamlessly blending modern comforts with timeless charm. This resort also offers a retreat into nature, with opportunities for outdoor adventures and leisure. Whether indulging in world-class spa treatments, teeing off at the scenic Jack Nicklaus golf course, or simply basking in the tranquility of the settings, Michlifen promises an unparalleled escape.

• Overnight in Ifrane at Michlifen Resort

Royal Dar Es Salam Red Course, Rabat

Chateau Roslane, Meknes

• After breakfast, head out to play the second round of the Friendship Cup on the Michlifen golf course with the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. The first Jack Nicklaus Signature mountain course in Africa, the 18-hole layout is located at an altitude of 1650 meters (roughly 5,000 feet), amid stunning mountain landscapes with evergreen, oak and cedar forests.

• Enjoy an afternoon at your leisure and experience the resort’s world-class spa, or perhaps play another round on the course.

• Dinner will be at your pleasure at one of the three restaurants at the resort: Le Cedray, L’Oriental, or Le Chalet.

• Overnight in Ifrane at Michlifen Resort.

NOVEMBER 11 - Fes & Marrakech

• In the morning, travel to nearby Fes for a visit to the historic medina. Drive time: 1 hour.

• Head into the ancient medina with your guide and step into a sort of living museum. It is a place full of life, with people going about their daily business while you explore a bustling marketplace that dates back centuries. The Fes medina has been continuously inhabited since 250 AD. Be sure to watch out for those donkeys who carry loads through the winding alleyways where motorized vehicles are not permitted.

• The Al-Quaraouiyine University is the oldest degree-granting university still in operation, having been founded by women 859 years ago. Though you are not allowed to enter this Quoranic school, you can glimpse inside the stunning courtyard.

• The medina’s handicraft workshops offer a unique insight into the country’s ancient culture and history. Visitors can witness how traditional techniques are still being used today, such as those employed by silk weavers who produce beautifully colored fabrics from threads sourced exclusively in Morocco; or those used for animal hide tanning, a process which has been done for nearly 1,000 years. Your tour will end with a buffet lunch at a restaurant in the medina (lunch included).

• After lunch, head to the Fes airport for your domestic flight to Marrakech (flight included). Flight time: 1 hour.

• Upon arrival in Marrakech, your driver will take you to The Oberoi Marrakech, a luxurious sanctuary situated within the captivating landscape of Morocco. Set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, this five-star resort redefines sophistication with its exquisite architecture, lush gardens and sumptuously appointed accommodations.

• Overnight in Marrakech at The Oberoi Marrakech.

Michlifen Resort, Ifrane

The Oberoi Marrakech

• Immerse yourself in the wonders of Marrakech during a leisurely day at your own pace. Explore the city’s rich cultural tapestry by visiting renowned sites such as the Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the Berber Museum, or lose yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Majorelle Garden.

• For a truly rejuvenating experience, consider indulging in a traditional hammam sesson. Alternatively, you may delve into Marrakech’s artisanal traditions by booking a hands-on cooking class or handicraft lesson. Choose from a variety of options, including leatherworking, wood carving or pottery making and let your creativity flourish.

• If you prefer a more laid-back day, simply embrace the city’s vibrant energy with a guide and explore the bustling souks surrounding the iconic Jemaa el Fna, where treasures await at every corner, and savor the unique atmosphere of Marrakech by people-watching from charming streetside cafes.

• For those looking for a greater thrill, you can head up to the Atlas Mountains for hiking and paragliding, or perhaps zip through the city riding in the sidecar of a motorcycle.

• As the late afternoon sun casts a warm glow over the landscape, embark on a captivating adventure to the Agafay Desert. It begins with a camel trek across the rugged desert terrain, absorbing the tranquility of the surroundings. Then, as evening descends, savor a delightful dinner at a luxurious camp that overlooks the valleys of the desert.

• Overnight in Marrakech at The Oberoi Marrakech.

YSL Museum

Jemaa el Fna

Agafay Desert

Atlas Mountains

Marrakech, Morocco

NOVEMBER

• Play the final round of the Friendship Cup at Royal Golf Marrakech, the second oldest course in Morocco. Inaugurated in 1927 by the Pascha of Marrakech, the course was designed initially by Gustave Gollas, whose passion for botanicals carries through to today, with some individual plants reaching nearly a century old and still lining the course. It was further updated with the assistance of British Open Champion Arnaud Massy in 1933. A favorite course of His Majesty Hassan II, Royal Golf Marrakech has hosted many figures from history, including Winston Churchill and Dwight D. Eisenhower. In 2007, an additional 9-hole course was added by Gert Watine and Thierry Sprecher. In 2018, a renovation of all three nines was overseen by Stuart Hallett and Jonathan Davison.

• Enjoy lunch at the clubhouse, where chef Abdeljalil Khalidi offers simple cuisine that focuses on fresh, organic produce sourced from nearby farms (lunch included).

• The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. In the evening we celebrate the end of the tournament with a farewell dinner and awards ceremony at Royal Mansour (dinner included - jacket required, tie not required). Designed by King Mohammed VI, the property is a showcase of the best of Moroccan craftsmanship. Under 3 Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alieno, Royal Mansour’s Le Grande Table Marocaine is undisputedly the best Moroccan restaurant in Marrakech, elevating traditional Moroccan cuisine to new heights.

• Overnight in Marrakech at The Oberoi Marrakech.

NOVEMBER 14 - Departure

• After breakfast, travel to the Casablanca airport for your afternoon departure flight to JFK or IAD. Drive time: 3 hours.

If you’re interested in this learning more about this one-of-a-kind trip, please contact Mike Rymer. 706.854.6970 | mike@championsretreat.net

Royal Golf Marrakech

Royal Mansour

2024 MOROCCO-AMERICA FRIENDSHIP CUP

NOVEMBER 6-14, 2024