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Top Tour player Simon Dyson at La Cala - EuroPro Tour holds tournament at the resort - Max Clifford Golf Challenge raises over â‚Ź160,000 - National Media Tournament returns - Budding golf star is one of new residents - Resort reaches the million green fee mark
LA CALA NEWS
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Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
LA CALA NEWS
WELCOME
Dear Members, Residents and Guests, Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter where I hope you will find something of interest. This is the 30th edition of the publication in 10 years which shows that La Cala, apart from being the biggest, is one of the best-established golf resorts in Spain. There is always something happening at La Cala. We are continually upgrading facilities and the number of important national and international events and competitions that return year after year is evidence of our success in promoting the complex and managing events. At a time of global economic uncertainty we can point to our track record of continued development and investment. Over a million green fees have been recorded at La Cala since the opening of Hotel La Cala in 1997. The Spanish National Media Tournament is planning to return for an unprecedented fifth year next summer. The annual golf challenge, hosted by publicist Max Clifford this year, will come back for the ninth time in 2009. The La Cala GolfWorld Open is now in its fourth year and goes from strength to strength. The EuroPro Tour is expanding its reach into continental Europe and we are delighted the organisers have chosen our resort to host the ladbrokescasino.com Masters. We are very experienced in hosting professional golf events having staged the Ladies European Tour Q-school on two occasions and the PGA Spanish Pairs Championship. These are just some of a long list of annual tournaments and competitions that are always well supported. As an Irish-owned golf resort, we were clearly delighted when Dubliner Padraig Harrington set the golf world alight with his successful defence of the Open Championship and his stunning victory in the US PGA. It was very pleasing to discover that before winning the Open Championship, Padraig met with the u-14 Junior Open winner, Frederik Hildebrandt Hammer. Frederik is a regular visitor to La Cala since his grandparents bought a holiday home here in January. We will be following his progress closely as he receives instruction at La Cala’s David Leadbetter Golf Academy. It was also great to welcome top European professional, Simon Dyson, to the resort in July. Simon kindly staged a clinic during his stay and also unveiled the commemorative plaque for the Guinness World Record we achieved in 2007. Last but not least, a special welcome is extended to our newest residents at Monte Alto and Real Altavista. The offer of golf membership when buying directly from the promoter continues as does the Privilege Card Scheme which allows owners to avail of a number of advantages at the various resort facilities. Don’t forget that whether you are at home or away you can stay in touch through our website, www.lacala.com, where you can also reserve, golf, hotel and spa and view our latest property opportunities. Early booking is advisable for the La Cala GolfWorld Open in late November. Our next edition will be in spring 2009, so we hope you have an enjoyable time at La Cala and that you will recommend us to your family and friends. Thank you for choosing Spain’s largest golf resort to enjoy the best winter climate in mainland Europe.
CONTENTS: Top Tour player Simon Dyson at La Cala EuroPro Tour holds tournament at the resort Max Clifford Golf Challenge raises over €160,000 National Media Tournament returns Budding golf star is one of new residents Resort reaches the million green fee mark
Denis Foley Managing Director La Cala Resort
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British Open and US PGA champion, Padraig Harrington with Frederik Hildebrandt Hammer (La Cala Resort) & Johanne Svendsen, the Danish representatives in the Junior Open. Frederik won the u-14 category.
Some of the companies and organisations that feature in this edition:
BUGAR MOTOR
We welcome your comments and suggestions. Please contact Dion Breen at: La Cala Resort - Mijas Costa - España - Apdo. de Correos 106 - La Cala de Mijas - 29649 Mijas Costa - Málaga Tel: (+34) 952 669 041 - Fax: (+34) 952 669 022 - press@lacala.com - www.lacala.com La Cala Resort is the official registered trademark of Ranchos Reunidos S.A., the promotor and management company behind the development. Ranchos Reunidos S.A. is 100% owned by the Irish insurance Company, FBD Holdings plc.
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LA CALA NEWS
Simon Dyson chooses La Cala Resort for holidays
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imon Dyson was born in York, England in 1977. In 1999, he was a member of the Great Britain & Ireland Walker Cup team, before turning professional in September. In 2000, Dyson topped the Asian Tour Order of Merit after winning three tournaments and was also Rookie of the Year. Since 2001 he has played mainly on the European Tour, and has finished in the top 100 on the Order of Merit six times. In March 2006 he won his maiden European Tour title at the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open, which he followed up later that year by winning the KLM Open in Holland after a play-off. These victories helped him to finish in a career-high 21st place on the Order of Merit and move into the top 100 of the Official World Golf Rankings.
Simon and Anton Haig practising at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy
Last year he finished joint 6th in the US PGA and was beaten in a play-off for the Volvo Masters at Valderrama. We spoke to Simon during a week’s
holidays at our resort ahead of the year’s last major, the US PGA. Simon, what do you regard as your career highlights to date? As an amateur it was playing on the Walker Cup. We had a really strong team that year and all of us have subsequently held European Tour cards at some stage. The team included Paul Casey, Luke Donald and Graeme Storm. As a professional my two wins on the European Tour stand out. After turning pro I played the Asian Tour in 2000 and won three times and topped the Order of Merit. That was a great year but getting my European Tour card at San Roque for 2001 was also a big step. Shooting 64 in the final round of the US PGA was also memorable as it propelled me up the field to joint 6th, my highest finish in a major. What about disappointments? The big disappointment was losing the Volvo Masters at Valderrama last year. On the 72nd hole my drive landed in a deep divot and was right against the face. If there had been no wind it would have been alright but it was blowing hard and it cost me a bogey and the title. I felt I deserved to win but that’s golf; you get good and bad breaks. How did you get interested in golf? My older brother Nick got me interested when I was 10 and our dad brought us to the local club to hit a few balls. I was immediately hooked. I would play 54 holes a day for seven days a week during the school holidays. I improved rapidly and got to scratch when I was 15. I knew by then I wanted to be a professional and five years later I was playing off +3 when I was picked for the Walker Cup. You’ve never regretted turning pro? No, I absolutely love the lifestyle. You get to visit some beautiful countries and it’s lots of fun. There is great camaraderie on the European Tour and I have made some great friends such as Nick Dougherty, Graeme McDowell and Steve Webster. It’s true that you come from a family with a fine sporting background? Yes, my grandfather was a jockey; dad, John, is a bookmaker and my uncle, Terry, played in Tottenham’s double-winning team in 1960-61.
Simon giving a clinic on Campo Asia
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Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
Are you interested in other sports? I was always good at football. I was on the books
LA CALA NEWS
of York City and Scarborough as a teenager. I knew I could have been OK but never great. Anyway, when I found I was thinking of playing golf while I was training for football, I decided it was time to dedicate myself to golf. I play tennis as well and would love to do more skiing but don’t want to risk getting injured and missing part of the season. What are your aims for the future? I’d like to win more tournaments and do well in the majors. Getting into the top 50 and later the top 20 is a big goal in that respect and, of course, I would love to play in the Ryder Cup. You play with a lot of amateurs in Pro-Ams. What are the main mistakes they make? Trying to hit the ball too hard. They see me hitting it 300 yards (280 metres) and they try and hit it hard to copy me. That will never work as distance is about technique and timing. Sometimes, when I try to hit it easy it just flies and flies and ends up further than when I try for more distance. There has been a lot of discussion about advancements in technology and the lengthening of courses. What are your views? I think everything has to move on and technological developments are great. However, a round of golf can take too long and courses of 7,600 yards and more are not really necessary. To make courses harder you can reduce the width of the fairways and make the greens smaller with more bunkers
and hazards off the putting surface. Any tips that you have found particularly useful? This year my long game has been really good and I’ve been hitting loads of greens in regulation. However, my short putting was bad until the last few weeks. I’m now concentrating very hard on keeping my head down until the putt is well gone. I’m concentrating on one point on the ball and my putting is much better. It has given me great confidence for the rest of the season. Why are you here at La Cala Resort? I wanted to prepare for the USPGA with a relaxing week with my girlfriend. I wanted to train and play a little and to relax in nice sunny weather and therefore acclimatise. I like playing in warm weather as it loosens you up and I find it helps my game. I had been at La Cala Resort to practice at the David Leadbetter Academy with Anton Haig before the Spanish Open in Seville earlier this year and I fell in love with the place. It is so quiet and peaceful and has great golf facilities and a selection of three courses. It is near the airport but away from the hustle and bustle of the coast. I feel really revitalised after the week here and I will definitely be back. In fact, I am going to arrange a visit with some of my golfing friends in the near future. It is a fantastic place and the views here are stunning. I’m sorry I didn’t bring my camera when I played the courses. I play all over the world but these views are memorable.
Simon on Campo Europa
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LA CALA NEWS
Ivobank PGA EuroPro Tour event at the resort
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he Ivobank PGA EuroPro Tour has announced that the Ladbrokescasino.com Masters will take place at our resort from 21-25 September as the curtain comes down on an exciting year. The event will be held on Campo Asia.
Following on from the Tour travelling to Portugal in July and to France for the Tour Championship, the EuroPro Tour is taking the best players all over Europe to test their game, and La Cala are more than happy to accommodate.
Eddie Hearn, chief executive of the Tour, said: “We are delighted to take the Tour to La Cala for the Ladbrokescasino.com Masters. This year the Ivobank PGA EuroPro Tour has secured some of the finest venues in Europe for the best young players in the world and La Cala falls into that category. We are also happy to have Ladbrokescasino.com on board again after their excellent backing last year.”
“La Cala Resort is delighted to host this important event,” said Alan Saunders, director of golf at the complex. “As the biggest golf resort in Spain we have already hosted the Ladies European Tour Q-school on more than one occasion and last year we welcomed the Spanish Professionals’ Pairs final which was won by Miguel Ángel Jiménez and Andrés Jiménez. As a resort we have been heavily involved in the promotion of junior golf at the highest levels and regard the EuroPro Tour as a natural extension of that policy by promoting competition for the next generation of professional golfers. By hosting major international amateur events we have seen European Tour players such as Álvaro Quirós and Pablo Martín compete successfully at La Cala before joining the paid ranks. Campo Asia is one of three 18hole courses in the complex and is also the oldest. Although, at just under 6,500 yards it is not long, it demands accuracy and good course management with a number of risk/ reward holes. It is all set up for an exciting tournament.”
Andy Harris, Managing Director of Ladbrokescasino.com added: “We’re really pleased to be able to lend our support to a tournament that provides a platform that contributes to the potential future success of young players on the golfing circuit. We are delighted to continue the association between Ladbrokescasino.com and the Ivobank PGA EuroPro Tour and take it to the next level by going international. We are sure our valued customers will enjoy the superb facilities at La Cala Resort and hopefully chart the emergence of Europe’s next top golfers.”
L to R: Alan Saunders, Simon Higginbottom, PGA Senior Tournament Director, Edward Johnson, PGA Tournament Controller & Ana Nyblom, La Cala Golf Events Manager.
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LA CALA NEWS
La Cala coach helps EuroPro Tour player qualify for Open Championship
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uroPro Tour golfer Peter Appleyard has credited the Head Instructor at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy with helping him qualify for the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. Peter, who turned pro in 2003, beat a field of over 3,500 professional and amateur golfers to gain one of the coveted places and after holding the joint lead at one stage with Australian superstar Adam Scott, he missed the halfway cut by only one shot. Peter was staying on the Costa del Sol last February and browsing the internet when he discovered on the resort’s site, www.lacala.com, that Spain’s only David Leadbetter Golf Academy in Spain was located in the complex. He booked a series of classes with Quintin van der Berg and described it as “a fantastic experience.” Peter, who plays out of the Wildernesse Golf Club in England, previously had lessons at a Leadbetter academy in the U.K. and he was extremely impressed with the
professionalism of the La Cala set up. “I found Quintin to be a very, very good coach. He is really up to date with the latest technological innovations and can provide expert analysis of the technical information. He used the 3D TaylorMade Performance Lab to identify something in my swing that was affecting my game. I am delighted with the progress I have made since the instruction and it undoubtedly helped me to raise my game. I am returning to work again with Quintin later in the year. My main goal this year is to qualify for the PGA European Tour and I intend to compete in the qualifying school in November. The experience of teeing up alongside the best players in the world and the star treatment we received has really whetted my appetite for the Tour. However, I am also nearly positive I will be playing in the EuroPro Tour’s Ladbrokes Masters at La Cala in September. I really liked what I saw of the resort when I was there earlier in the year and I would love to play in the tournament.” Peter Appleyard
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LA CALA NEWS
Max Clifford Golf Challenge raises over €160,000
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he Max Clifford Celebrity Golf Challenge in aid of the UK-based charity, the Rhys Daniels Trust was held at the resort in June. Once again, it was a huge success, raising €160,700. Max Clifford is the most famous publicist in the U.K.. The charity has held a golf competition on the Costa Del Sol for the past eight years and has raised a total of approximately €820,000, (£650,500). The event consisted of two days of team golf on two of La Cala’s three 18-hole courses, Campo Asia and Campo Europa. A charity auction was then held in Marbella with large sums being paid for the wide range of special auction items. These included: seven framed and signed pictures of former English prime ministers; Ricky Hatton’s gloves that he wore in the fight when he beat Juan Lazcano; a signed and framed picture of Princess Diana; a signed Picasso drawing; a signed and framed racing jacket and balaclava from Lewis Hamilton; a signed Wayne Rooney England shirt; a Liverpool shirt signed by Steven Gerrard plus a pair of his football boots and a pair of Justin Rose’s
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autographed shoes. The Rhys Daniels Trust provides dedicated ‘Home from Home’ accommodation close to regional hospitals around the UK for families to use free of charge whilst their child is receiving life saving, often long term treatment a long way from home. Founder and chairman of the charity, Barry Daniels, experienced the need for this service when his son Rhys was undergoing a bone marrow transplant in Bristol. Barry said he was once again delighted with the event and confirmed it would return to La Cala next year. The proceedings were filmed for Sky Sports and were shown on all four sports channels in a 90 minute programme presented by wellknown broadcaster, Chris Tarrant. Among the football stars present were: John Gregory, Gordon Cowans, Kenny Sansom, Terry Gibson and Vinny Samways. One of the celebrities who attended for the first time this year was former Coronation Street star, Johnny Briggs, aka Mike Baldwin. Also present was comedian and Eastenders star, Bobby Davro.
LA CALA NEWS
L to R: Pete Sands (Elvis), Jess Conrad, Bobby Davro & James Hewitt.
L to R: Des O’ Connor, Jodie O’ Connor, Jo Westwood, Max Clifford, Jessica Westwood & James Deakin
TV presenter Chris Tarrant
The winning team from Obelisk Property Investment receive their trophies
Sky Sports filming on tee 10 of Campo Europa
Actor Johnny Briggs
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Everything you desire in one location, La Cala Resort, the best location for your dream home. Monte Alto is an exclusive development of luxury townhouses located in a private community with fantastic views of our three 18-hole courses. • Golf Membership available for our three golf courses. • Panoramic views of La Cala Resort. • Exclusive Community with private pool and landscaped gardens. • Resort Management Company offers owners complete aftersales services. • Developed by the Irish Insurance Group, FBD Holdings plc. • Designed by Architects with experience in developing Residential Golf Resorts in the USA and Europe
102 luxury two and three-bedroomed townhouses • Private gated community • Each property has a private underground garage • Air-conditioning/heating • Fully-fitted kitchens • Master bedroom/dressing room with en suite bathroom • Master bathroom with spa bath and underfloor heating • Open dining/living area with fireplace • Ample terraces and private gardens
The Property Sales Team. L to R: Elena Montes, Bernd Dellwig & Nicole Kniesel.
The La Cala Property Sales team are available 7 days a week to answer any inquiries you may have regarding the Monte Alto development. La Cala Resort also has an in-house legal team and an after-sales department that can look after all your administrative requirements.
For further information please contact: Bernd Dellwig at the Property Sales Office. property@lacala.com • www.lacala.com T. +34 952 669 027 • Fax: +34 952 669 022
A team of professionals to guarantee your new home G & J Arquitectura SL Monte Alto has been constructed with total respect for the environment. The design allows for the best views and best orientation to take advantage of the sun and light. When the number of buildings and their layout was being decided, we were very conscious of the existing architectural style of the resort but also added the latest in design features and the most modern facilities. Carlos González & Rodolfo Jacobson, G &J
MDCI Project Developers SL MDCI’s assignment in all residential projects at La Cala has been to manage, coordinate and supervise the strict fulfilment of the promoter’s targets by all parties involved in the design and development process, thus guaranteeing the delivery of a truly exceptional product. “We are proud to be part of the development of Monte Alto, our sixth project for La Cala Resort, where the quality of design, construction, lifestyle and respect for the environment have prevailed. “We have been, and continue to be, actively involved in all stages of the project – from inception to final delivery – and we are pleased to congratulate La Cala and all future owners of Monte Alto for their outstanding choice.” – Mark Lawson, MDCI Managing Director
Mark Lawson, MDCI
Ejecucion del Planeamiento SL Ejecución de Planeamiento SL (Ejecupla) is the company charged with ensuring that all the property designs related to the development conform to the various local authority regulations and meet the highest standards. It is a company with many years’ experience in urban design and planning and deals with all the administrative, legal and technical issues involved.
José García Pulido & Fernando García Jiménez, Ejecupla
The La Cala Technical Team The La Cala Technical team are responsible for the co-ordination of the project with the project managers, MDCI. Salvador and Javier are in charge of the supervision of the works and the handover of the properties to the clients. They ensure that the properties meet all the technical and quality specifications and all the requirements of the new owners.
Salvador Sánchez & Javier Berrocal, Project Co-ordinators
LA CALA NEWS
11th National Media Golf Tournament
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he 11th prestigious Gran Premio de España for the communications media was held at the resort in early July. This is a highly significant golf tournament for the Spanish national media and over 130 players took part, including some of the biggest names in the world of Spanish journalism, such as Antena 3 news anchorman Matías Prats. It took place in perfect, sunny but windy conditions on two of our three 18-hole courses, Campo America and Campo Asia. The organisers were so pleased with La Cala that they plan to return again next year. “This was great and everyone is very happy. The two courses were in great condition
Matías Prats.
The winning teams
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and everything was truly fantastic. So much so that we are going to return again next year for the fifth year in a row,” commented event organiser Ángel Diez. Meanwhile, Jesús Gasanz of sponsors Audi added: “There was a great atmosphere here and the standard of the event was once again marvellous.” Matías Prats was also fulsome in his praise: “The courses were in great condition but the strong winds made it difficult to score well. We won the trophy last year and as a team we are very happy with finishing fifth this time in defence of the title. I have now played all three La Cala courses and I have enjoyed them all.” The teams are divided into two divisions with relegation and promotion each year. The first division was won by Golf + with Canal Sur second and Motorpress Iberica in third place. The second division prize went to Golf Int Approach. The best scratch result was recorded by Hugo Costa with 37 points off 3 handicap. The tournament is sponsored by Audi and also promoted by the Junta de Andalucía and was filmed by Golf + for transmission on Canal 51 and also by Canal Málaga.
LA CALA NEWS
New Clubhouse Extension
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n June we opened our new extension to the clubhouse. The fantastic new covered terrace can seat 250 people and brings the total seating capacity of the clubhouse terrace area to over 500. The extension offers magnificent views over Campo Asia and has been very favourably received. Already proving popular for lunch and evening meals, the new terrace is the ideal place for a wedding or other social function. As we have a range of different terraces and inside function rooms available, the lay-out of the event can be tailored to your special needs. The extension utilises the of the new buggy garage houses 160 buggies. The cost of the extension was
€1 million and provides a further example of the resort developer’s commitment to a continual programme of improvement and expansion.
roof that total over
PROMOTUR Circuit
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he annual PROMOTUR Circuit visited the resort in August. The Promoters Association of Residential Tourism and Sports in Andalusia (PROMOTUR) is a non-profit business association which represents the main Andalusian companies involved in residential tourism and sports. Almost 100 players entered for the event; the best supported in the calendar. Played on Campo Europa in hot, almost windless conditions, the course was in great condition, requiring accurate mid irons to well bunkered greens. The winner, Mathias Grotzke, has qualified for the circuit final at Valderrama. Special prizes; Mathias Groztke (longest drive – men), Ritva Hagglund (longest drive – women) and Francisco Cervilla (nearest the pin). Mathias Groztke with Gabriel De la Rosa & Ana Nyblom of La Cala Resort
Results: 1st Mathias Groztke 2nd Carlos Arroyo Moreno 3rd José Antonio Rivas Espada
38 points 38 points 37 points
DINING & ENTERTAINMENT
Come and join us in La Terraza Restaurant or the 19th Hole for the best Spanish and international dishes. Alternatively, why not let us organise your special dinner or social function. We can cater for all types of events in Hotel La Cala or in our spacious clubhouse. Depending on the season, we offer our valued guests a variety of themed evenings and entertainment. SPORT ON TV
All major sporting events are broadcast live in the 19th Hole (clubhouse) or in Bar Califa (hotel). Why not come along and watch your favourite sports in comfort? We have all the major sports channels, including Setanta Sports with live coverage of the U.S. Tour.
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LA CALA NEWS LA CALA NEWS
New Danish residents bring budding golf star
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wo of the newest property owners in La Cala Resort are Aase and Jorgen Hildebrandt from Denmark who bought a three-bedroom apartment in the Los Altos development in January. Aase and Jorgen built and managed the 4-star Ascot Hotel in central Copenhagen and intend to use the apartment as a holiday home in conjunction with their children and their families. In July we caught up with their daughter, Lene, and son-in-law Nicolai who were here with son Frederik (14) and daughter Julie (11). The family had just come from the British Open Junior Championship, where scratch golfer Frederik, who was representing Denmark, won the u-14 event and was sixth in the u-16s. Frederik was also introduced to the defending Open champion, Padraig Harrington. Harrington went on to successfully defend his title and three weeks later added the year’s last major, the US PGA.
L to R: Lene, Nicolai, Julie & Frederik.
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Lene explains why her parents, in conjunction with the family, chose La Cala: “My parents wanted a place in Spain, not too far from an airport. Somewhere all the children could come and visit. It was important that the location was on the mainland as after three or four years on an island you have seen everything and culturally it’s much more interesting than Majorca or the Canary Islands. La Cala was recommended to us by friends and we flew down in November and stayed at the hotel. We really liked it with
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
the Caracala Spa, the beautiful pool and the fantastic, peaceful environment. Remember, we don’t really have mountains in Denmark. The location really impressed us as it was away from the noise of the coast, yet near enough to enjoy the beaches and the coastal towns. Proximity to the airport was also very important. If you are coming for four days, you don’t want to waste more time in travelling. “We are also delighted with the property. From the first minute we saw it, we liked this apartment and now all the family really love it. It is great to have three bedrooms as we can travel with my parents. The people in the complex are also very nice. They made us all feel very welcome; even in the first week we had drinks with them and feel we have so much in common.” One family member who certainly will be making good use of the property is Frederik. A member of the Danish Junior team, his performance at the British Open Juniors was the first time he represented his country abroad. He has been taking lessons from the Head Instructor at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, Quintin van der Berg, since January. Frederik has only been playing golf for four years but is already being tipped as one of the stars of the future. He is coached in Denmark by James Petts, who also coaches European Tour players Soren Hansen, Mads Vibe-Hastrup and Iben Tinning. James recommended Quintin as one of the best teachers in Europe and Frederik said he is delighted to be able to train with such a highly respected instructor who stays in contact with his ‘home’ coach to ensure his instruction in both countries is co-ordinated. He intends to travel to the Leadbetter academy every month over the winter season, when weather conditions are not conducive to training or playing in Denmark. He has already been fitted at the TaylorMade Performance Lab and has upgraded his equipment as his rapid rise in the game progresses.
LA CALA NEWS
La Cala Resort hits the million green fee mark
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a Cala Resort, already recognised as the biggest in Spain, has passed a new milestone after welcoming its one millionth green fee since 1997. When David Neill from Scotland teed off on April 24th at 8 am little did he realise that he was setting the record breaking millionth round since the relaunch of La Cala Resort and the opening of Hotel La Cala in 1997. David and his wife Janette are regular visitors to the resort, coming three times a year to Hotel La Cala for the past seven years. “It’s a marvellous destination. We love the choice and standard of the courses and the Andalusian-style hotel and its attentive staff. We first saw the resort in a golf holiday brochure. When you come here once, you keep returning as it’s so spectacular,” says David. “We will keep coming back and hopefully we can be the two millionth customers as well,” joked Janette. A special award was made to David by the acting mayor of Mijas with responsibility for Tourism, Fuensanta Lima. She described the figure as “a magnificent achievement” and added, “we are very proud to have the complex in Mijas. Not just because of the outstanding facilities and the stunning location but also because the management and staff are great.”
La Cala’s Director of Leisure, José Navas, said the achievement was good news for the region at a time of international market uncertainty: “We have seen the economic fluctuations over the past ten years with highs and lows. We are therefore conscious of the great need for a coordinated approach in the marketing of the Costa del Golf given the uncertain, global economic situation at this time. We hope that this significant milestone will assist in the promotion of the area as one of the largest and best golf destinations in Europe. However, we also appreciate the need for continual investment and upgrading of facilities. The new terrace area that we are using today forms part of our €1 million clubhouse refurbishment that also includes a new garage for our significant fleet of 160 buggies. It is another stage in our continual investment in facilities to improve the service to our customers. The hosting of a special event and the presentation of an award to Mr Neill is our way of acknowledging all the golfers that have visited La Cala Resort over the years. Additionally, we see no reason why we should not be able to achieve another million golfers within the next decade and are already on our way to achieving this.”
L to R: José Navas, David Neill, Fuensanta Lima & Ana Nyblom, La Cala Resort Events Manager.
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LA CALA NEWS
Peterborough United F.C.
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nglish League One side Peterborough United F.C. returned to the resort this summer for a week-long training camp. The club used the resort as a training base for the first time last year before gaining promotion from League Two. Their manager is Darren Ferguson, the ex-Manchester United striker and son of Sir Alex Ferguson. He said the visit last year was important in preparing the squad for their successful season. “We got off
to a great start last year after being here in La Cala. With the excellent, warm weather conditions it is a great fitness test. Last year we trained three times a day, this year it’s only two but we are also playing a couple of matches.” One of the matches was a 3-0 victory over a team from the Glenn Hoddle Academy, whose aim is to give another chance to young players released by Premier League clubs. Darren was very impressed with the La Cala facilities: “Everything here is excellent. The pitch is absolutely superb. We have also been using the gym and some of the lads have been playing golf too. It is a great break for them and a great change of scenery. We are very fortunate to have this training camp and access to these top-class facilities. Furthermore, everyone has been very helpful and all our needs are attended to immediately, so it’s top-class service.”
L to R: Charlie Lee, Craig Morgan, Darren Ferguson, Renee Howe & Scott Rendell.
Peterborough United’s links with the Costa del Sol have been forged by their chairman, Darragh MacAnthony of MRI Overseas Property, based in Marbella. “La Cala ticks all the boxes as far as I’m concerned. It has all the facilities we need,” he commented.
Sevilla Atlético
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he General Manager of Sevilla Atlético has been loud in his praise of the resort after his team spent two weeks training in the complex in late July and early August. Antonio Abades said the complex was “perfect” for the pre-season training and had helped them greatly last year: “Last summer we came to La Cala for the first time and it undoubtedly helped us to have a positive start to the season and a great year. We are hoping for the same this year as everything has once again been perfect.” The team will play the 2008/09 season in the Second Division. They are the reserve team of Sevilla FC. Unlike in other countries such as England, reserve teams in Spain play in the same football pyramid as their senior team rather than a separate league. However, reserve teams cannot play in
the same division as their senior team. Therefore the team is ineligible for promotion to La Liga, the division in which Sevilla FC currently play. Sevilla Atlético played a series of friendly games against local opposition during their stay, including: Mijas, Fuengirola, Marbella, Antequera and the Malaga first team. In addition to two training sessions per day they also used the La Cala gymnasium and Caracala Spa. Antonio Abades says the facilities are ideal: “The pitch here is in perfect condition. There are very few pitches as good. Playing in a national league every year we visit many cities and towns and there are always complaints from players about the hotels we stay in, their facilities and food. However, not one player has had anything negative to say about La Cala Resort. Everything has been marvellous. The fact that we are located away from the coast is another advantage. It is easier to have a more ‘professional’ training camp when there are fewer external distractions for the players. It is important to build the team spirit as this is the first time that many of the players will have come together after arriving from different clubs since the end of the last season.” During the 2007/08 season the complex was used as a training base by top clubs from eight countries, including: Sunderland AFC, Reading FC and Peterborough United (UK); Dynamo Moscow (Russia); Borussia Monchengladbach (Germany); BSC Young Boys (Switzerland); Heracles Almelo (Holland); Bohemians FC (Ireland); FC Fyn Odense (Denmark) and Sevilla Atlético (Spain).
16
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
LA CALA NEWS
Manfred & Ursula Wetzel win Peter Stock Memorial Trophy
T
he Peter Stock Memorial trophy in June was won by husband and wife team, Manfred and Ursula Wetzel. The two-day competition is the highlight of the annual Peter Stock memorial week and was played over Campo Asia and Campo America. The Wetzels’ better-ball total of 125 was enough to win from Richard Hinds and Ritva Hagglund with Carol Rees and Clive Upton, third. Other winners during the week were: Judi Lentelink, Paul Massey, Maggie Coombes, Linda
Jackson, Gordon Edwards, Sylvia Robbins and Peter Bradley. The Peter Stock Week is organised by Peter’s widow Joan and is one of the high points in the La Cala members’ calendar. This year it raised almost €1,700 for the Cudeca cancer care hospice in Benalmadena. Another notable happening was the first hole-in-one during a Peter Stock Week. It was recorded by Vivienne Youngs on the 8th hole of Campo America.
Members’ competition results can be checked on the monthly members’ and residents’ bulletin, The Mulligan, at
www.lacala.com
Celtic Viajes Texas Scramble winning team: L to R: Judi Lentelink, Maggie Coombes, Paul Massey and Linda Jackson with Loraine and Damien Murphy of the sponsors.
Ranchos Reunidos SA Foursomes winners, Gordon Edwards and Sylvia Robbins.
Coombes plate winners: Peter Bradley (13) 44 pts & Judy Lentelink (16) 40 pts.
Manfred and Ursula Wetzel
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
17
Blue Skies at Christmas
R
ecovering from the washout? Fed up with spending the Christmas/New Year’s holidays in the middle of the cold, dark, Northern winter? Looking to start the New Year on a brighter footing? Why not take a break in the sunshine and let us organise your vacation and nights out. We have prepared special Christmas & New Year’s packages that make a relaxing break an affordable reality. Be the envy of your friends and celebrate the festive season in mainland Europe’s best winter climate.
Christmas Eve Dinner – December 24th Aperitif followed by Christmas Eve dinner with festive music in La Terraza Restaurant. After dinner you can relax and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in the Lobby Bar. €55 pp + 7% VAT. Children up to 12 years: €25 + 7% VAT. News Year’s Eve Gala Dinner – December 31st The evening begins at 20:00 with a glass of Spanish champagne, (Cava), after which we will enjoy the New Year’s Eve dinner and at midnight our New Year’s Eve party and dance kicks off.
Aperitif, six-course menu, wines, Cava & New Year’s grapes. Price per person €145 + 7% VAT. Children up to 12 years €50 + 7% VAT. Supplement for guests on half board €107 + 7% VAT. New Year’s Package New Years’s Package 3 Nights B&B Free entry to San Miguel End of Year Golf Competition Free Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience New Year’s Eve Dinner €399 + 7% VAT. Double room supplement for single use: €112 + 7% VAT. Rates are per person sharing a double room with terrace. Offer valid for a minimum stay of three nights from December 29th to January 2nd. Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience (2 hours), subject to availability. Tee times are subject to availability.
For reservations call (+34) 952 669 016 • Fax (+34) 952 669 013 • e-mail hotel@lacala.com • or visit 18
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
www.lacala.com
LA CALA NEWS
Charity Week raises funds for West Syndrome Foundation
A
charity week held at the end of July raised
players also on 34. In Category 2, handicaps
over €2,000 for the West Syndrome
18.5 to 36.4, the winner was José Antonio Molina
Foundation. A reduced green fee of only
(25) with 39 points. He won by five from Juan
€30, including buggy, was available on three
José Merino (18) with 34. The junior section was
days during the week with a percentage of
won by Valentin Molina (27) with 40 points.
each green fee going to the foundation. Meanwhile, on Sunday July 27th, there was an open competition for €35 followed by a clinic with top European Tour professional, Simon
L to R: Simon Dyson, José Antonio Molina & Elena Barbero of the West Syndrome Foundation.
Dyson. The President of the Foundation, Nuria Pombo, said she was delighted with the public response. “We never before had a full charity week. We are very happy with the response for the golfing public and apart from the very welcome funds, it is a great way of raising public awareness of the illness and the foundation.” West Syndrome, otherwise known as infantile spasms, is a rare to serious form of epilepsy
Junior section winner Valentin Molina accepting his prize.
in infants. Up to 90% of children suffer severe physical and cognitive impairments, even when treatment for the attacks is successful. As many as 6 out of 10 children with West syndrome suffer from epilepsy later in life. The West Syndrome Foundation was established in 2003 and provides physical and practical help to the affected children and their families. It has initiated a number of programmes of physiotherapy,
Simon Dyson giving instruction during the clinic on Camp Asia.
hydrotherapy, etc. and also runs summer camps with recreation and rehabilitation programmes. Simon Dyson attended the prize-giving and also held a clinic for the participants. He said he was delighted to be able to help the charity by putting on a demonstration of his shot-making ability and he also invited members of the gallery to hit some balls and offered individual advice. The competition was divided into three categories. Category 1, for handicaps up to 18.4 was won on a count back by Mohamed Rizk (8) with 34 points, from Russell Woodward (15). There were three other
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
19
Hotel Offers
Golf & Hotel Packages
3 Nights B&B & 1 Green Fee, from 5 Nights B&B & 2 Green Fees, from 7 Nights B&B & 5 Green Fees, from
€276 €474 €751
David Leadbetter Golf Academy & Hotel Packages
3 Nights B&B and 2 days Mini School, from 4 Nights B&B and 3 days Mini School, from 5 Nights B&B and 4 days Mini School, from 5 Nights B&B and 4 days Beginner to Winner, from
Rates are per person sharing a double room with terrace. Rates include room, buffet breakfast & golf (excl. 7% VAT). Rates & David Leadbetter Golf Academy are subject to availability.
€470 €639 €785 €673 Supplement for Clubfitting Session in TaylorMade Performance Lab (2 hours session): €104 (incl. VAT)
Family Hotel Package
Junior Golf Camp
During the holiday season La Cala Resort turns into the ideal location for parents, children and grandparents alike to relax and have fun.
Junior Golf Camp at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy 5 days for children between 7 & 16 years. €150 per child, incl. 7% VAT.
Two connecting rooms for the price of one. For only €252 per night, including buffet breakfast, excl. 7% VAT. Offer valid for families and children up to 16 years. Maximum 2 adults and 2 children. If you stay for more than five nights you will receive 2 free green fees and a shared buggy (to be played during the stay). You will also receive 2 free vouchers for our Spa Experience/ Thermal Circuit.
For further information please contact the David Leadbetter Golf Academy directly. Tel (+34) 952 669 037.
Valid from:December 1st – 28th, 2008 and April 3rd – 26th, 2009. BOOK NOW AND GET A SPECIAL
10% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT Save 10% of your selected rate when booking 90 days in advance.
Tel: 952 669 016 • Fax: 952 669 013 • hotel@lacala.com Don’t forget, you can also book online at
www.lacala.com
GOLF RATES 2008
Green Fee
Green Fee
18 holes
Before 10:00
Season Ticket
3 Course Pass
SPECIAL OFFERS ONE FREE FOR EACH 12 One green fee free of charge for each group booking of 12 players or more.
September, 15th - 28th
€57
€57*
-
€150
September, 29th - November, 30th
€72
€72*
-
€180
December, 1st - 31st
€45*
-
€230*
-
Season Ticket
3 Course Pass
GOLF RATES 2009
Green Fee
Green Fee
18 holes
Before 10:00
January, 1 - 31
€45*
-
€199*
-
February, 1st - 28th
€57*
-
-
€150*
€72
€72*
-
€180
€45*
-
€199*
-
€57*
-
-
€150*
October, 1 - November, 30
€72
€72*
-
€180
December, 1st - 31st
€45*
-
€199*
-
st
st
March, 1st - May, 23rd May, 24 - August 31 th
st
September, 1st - 30th st
th
2nd ROUND WITH FREE BUGGY During the periods when shared buggy is not included, free shared buggy will be given for 2nd round played on the same day SEASON TICKET Unlimited golf during a week (seven consecutive days), including shared buggy 3 COURSE PASS Play one round on each of our three 18 holes golf courses within a period of 14 days. Ask us for details of TWILIGHT GOLF, 9 HOLE GREEN FEE RATES and other SPECIAL OFFERS with or without HOTEL & SPA packages
* Shared buggy included
Forthcoming Golf Events at La Cala Resort.
2008 SEPTEMBER
21st – 25th
Ivobank PGA EuroPro Ladbrokescasino.com Masters
Tour/
OCTOBER
26th
Golf Societies Autumn Challenge
NOVEMBER
23rd XV Cudeca Cup 26th – 28th La Cala GolfWorld Open 30th Golf Societies Winter Challenge Final
DECEMBER
6th – 9th 11th 13th 20th 31st
III Marbella Amateur Open ASGA Circuit Christmas Trophy Final of UNICEF ‘Relevo De Golf’ Circuit II laCala & You Open San Miguel End of Year Competition
2009 JANUARY
3rd – 4th
La Cala Resort Junior Masters
FEBRUARY
21st – 22nd Spanish Federation National Ranking Competition u-14s & u-16s 28th Andalucia Day Competition
MARCH
17th
St Patrick’s Day Competition
9th 11th 12th
Caracala Spa Ladies Open El Corte Ingles Trophy Parent & Child Competition
APRIL
Visit
w w w. l a c a l a . c o m for the latest offers & events Tel. (+34) 952 669 033 Fax (+34) 952 669 034 E-mail: golf@lacala.com
LA CALA NEWS
First La Cala & You Summer Challenge
T
he first La Cala & You Summer Challenge took place in late July for the members of the resort’s affinity programme. The event consisted of three days of golf and accommodation. After an opening practice round, the better-ball, stableford competition
was held over two days with the eventual winners being Pierre Siret and Daniele Miecret who had travelled from Belgium to take part. There was a wide range of nationalities represented with players from Spain, the UK, Ireland and Norway competing. The general reaction of the competitors was extremely positive, not only to the competition format and organisation, but also to the concept of the card holders having the opportunity to meet and develop friendships that can be renewed on an annual basis at subsequent events. There are now over 650 members of the La Cala & You scheme that was launched in May of 2007. In total, 22 countries are represented. The scheme offers a range of discounts on the resort’s facilities, including hotel and golf offers, vouchers for complimentary buggies and special competitions, such as the Summer Challenge.
L to R: Andrés Báez, La Cala Marketing, Daniele Miecret, Pierre Siret and Ana Nyblom, La Cala Golf Events Manager.
There is no joining fee for the La Cala & You scheme. For more information e-mail: you@lacala.com or visit www.lacala.com.
Eleventh staging of Co-op Day
T
he eleventh La Cala Resort Co-op Day was held in the complex at the end of May. The day is organised as a mark of appreciation to all the agents and tour operators who collaborate with the resort throughout the year. Seventy five representatives of the largest operators on the coast as well as officials from the Costa del Sol’s Tourism Board and the acting mayor of Mijas with responsibility for tourism, Fuensanta Lima, attended the event. The day was divided between a 9-hole competition
The Co-op invitees with the clubhouse extension in the background.
22
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
on Campo Europa, golf clinics at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy in addition to putting and chipping competitions. The day was completed by lunch on the magnificent new extension to the clubhouse terrace area that was opened for the first time to welcome the agents. This event has now become a fixture on the golf calendar for the tour operators who were looking forward to another successful season. They were lavish in their praise for La Cala, which has been reconfirmed by the Royal Spanish Golf Federation as the largest in the country. The general opinion was that the resort has a range of top quality facilities and services that enable it to act as a point of reference in the golf-tourism market. The new dining and entertainment area also drew much favourable comment as it greatly increases the outdoor seating area and extends the options available for the staging of all types of golf and social functions with a fantastic backdrop of Campo Asia.
LA CALA NEWS
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Tel: (+34) 952 669 033 Fax: (+34) 952 669 034 e-mail golf@lacala.com www.lacala.com
Adrian Murphy: “I canʼt wait until next year.”
Lesley Kitching: “Itʼs my first time here and itʼs wonderful.” Jeff Rawlins: “Excellent, great value for money.” Mark Holland: “Beautiful surroundings, superb weather and organisation.”
Now you have the chance to play all three of our courses in one tournament, enjoying the superb winter weather of the Costa del Sol. Campo America, Asia and Europa present different challenges to golfers of all levels. All three courses require
Harri Huovila: “Itʼs a fantastic event.”
informed decisions from the tees and a level of course management that will test your golfing strategy. The format is stableford and the overall winner is the player with the best score over three rounds. There are also daily prizes.
FULL PROGRAMME PACKAGES: Hotel - Golf - Spa Price for Golfer: €625 + 7% VAT
Price for Companion €395 + 7% VAT
• 5 nights in shared double room with daily Breakfast Buffet • 4 Days of Golf including shared Buggy and on competition days, Picnic Bag • 4 Days Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience • Welcome cocktail • Lunch Buffet (including beverages) • Gala Dinner with prize-giving ceremony (including beverages) • Individual Use supplement: €165 + 7% VAT
• 5 nights in shared double room with daily Breakfast Buffet • 4 Days Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience • Nuat Namman Treatment at Caracala Spa • Visit to Mijas village • Welcome cocktail • Lunch Buffet (including beverages) • Gala Dinner with prize-giving ceremony (including beverages)
Golf Only Price for Golfer: €260 + 7% VAT includes:
Price for Companion: €150 + 7% VAT includes:
4 Days Golf and Shared Buggy, Welcome cocktail, Lunch Buffet at Clubhouse (including beverages), Gala Dinner with prizegiving ceremony (including beverages), 1 Day Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience.
Includes: Welcome cocktail, Spa Experience - 2 hours, Spa Mosaic Decleor Treatment, Gala Dinner with prize-giving ceremony (including beverages), 1 Day Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience.
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009 Limited number of spaces available
23
3 BEDROOM DUPLEX PENTHOUSE OVERLOOKING CAMPO ASIA WITH VIEWS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Pool: • Marble floors throughout, except kitchen • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Underfloor heating in the main bathroom • Stunning golf, sea and mountain views • Gated Community
€450,000 188 m2, including terraces 3 3 (2 en suite) Communal pool and landscaped gardens
• Fully fitted kitchen • Built-in wardrobes • Electric shutters in the master bedroom • Video porter entry
• Alarm system installed • East-West facing • Underground private parking • Private storeroom
COLINAS DEL GOLF 4 BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED VILLA
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Plot: • Marble floors throughout, except kitchen • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Fully fitted kitchen • Electric shutters in main rooms • Open fireplace
• Built-in wardrobes • Alarm system fitted • Video porter entry system • Private garage for 3 cars • Private pool and garden
€899,000 344 m2 and 133 m2 terrace 4 4 338 m2 • South-West facing • Views to golf courses and mountains • Gated community • Walking distance to the clubhouse
TWO THREE-BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES WEST-FACING WITH VIEWS OVER THE 17TH & 18TH HOLES OF CAMPO ASIA
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Pool: • Marble floors throughout, except kitchen • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Underfloor heating in both master bathrooms • Electric shutters in main rooms • Open fireplace
• Fully-fitted kitchen • Built-in wardrobes • Video porter entry system • Views to golf course • East-West facing
From €525,000 to €595,000 246 m2 + 112 m2 de porches and terraces 3 3 (1 en suite) Communal pool and green areas • Private garage and storeroom • Walking distance to clubhouse • Gated community • Private urbanisation of just 22 townhouses and 10 semi-detached villas
3 BEDROOM TOWNHOUSE ALONGSIDE FIRST FAIRWAY OF SOUTH COURSE AT LA CALA GOLF WITH VIEWS TOWARDS THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Pool: • Marble floors throughout, except kitchen • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Open fireplace • Fully fitted kitchen • Built-in wardrobes
€325,000 142 m living area + porches, terraces & patio 3 3 (en suite) + 1 guest toilet Communal pool and green areas 2
• Video porter entry system • Private roof terrace • Views overlooking Campo Asia towards the Mediterranean • East-West facing
• Private car port • Walking distance to the clubhouse • Gated community • Iron bars on kitchen door/guest toilet • Private garden
FOUR-BEDROOM DETACHED SOUTH-WEST FACING VILLA WITH VIEWS OF CAMPO ASIA
Now Reduced by €100,000 Sales Price: Plot size: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Pool: • Air-conditioning • Jacuzzi in master bathroom • Shutters in all bedrooms
€795,000 €695,000 501 m2 180 m2 plus private garden, car port & terraces 3 2 Private pool and gardens
• Pre-installation for alarm • Gress floor tiling
• Built-in wardrobes • Open fireplace
LOS ALTOS 5 BEDROOM FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Terraces: • Marble floor throughout except kitchen • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Fully fitted kitchen • Shutters in bedrooms
€770,000 267 m2 5 5 (1 en suite) 51 m2
• Alarm system installed • Built-in wardrobes • Video porter entry system • 2 private garages and 2 storerooms
• East-West facing • Views to golf course, sea and mountains • Gated community • Communal pool and gardens
LA CALA NEWS
Busy golfi ng Easter
T
he Easter holiday week was one of the busiest times of the golfing year at the resort with a range of competitions for family members of all ages. Male or female, young or old; there was something for everyone and the members certainly made their mark with a number using their local knowledge to scoop a prize. The St Patrick’s Day Trophy was a fourball better-ball on Campo Europa and the club members swept away all the prizes. Marcus and Riitta Liisa Backman led the way with 45 points; James Reid and David Gilchrist were second on 41, the same score as Philip Shute and Roy Davis. Annelie and Heikki Alanen were fourth on 39 and Joy and Brian Garvey were fifth, also on 39. Local pride of place in the annual AESGOLF Circuit for seniors on Good Friday went to Ritva Hagglund who won the ladies event with 33 points. Her husband Bo took fourth place in the men’s higher handicap category with a handicap-committee pleasing 36. The next day 90 players teed off in the ‘El Corte Inglés’ competition on Campo Asia. In spite of the large turnout nobody managed to play to their handicap with a score of 35 points being enough to win. The club was well represented here with second, third, fourth and sixth places going to John Vernon (33), Terry Riggs (33), Brian Garvey (32) and
Bjorn Ljunggren (30) respectively. Easter Sunday was a real family day with the annual Parent & Child trophy on Campo Europa. Giving family members the chance to play together in the Greensomes, alternate shot format, the best La Cala pair were Alan and Sean Jewett in sixth place. Last, but not least, the ladies had their own competition on Easter Monday and the action returned to Campo America with the Caracala Spa Ladies Open. With a great range of prizes and treatments from the luxurious spa on offer, this is an event that no lady golfer should miss. There was even a goody bag for all the players. The La Cala ladies almost completed a clean sweep of the prizes. Alison Kirk won with 37 points. The lady vice-captain, Vivien Shute was second on 36 with Jenny Chesterton third, also on 36.
Alison Kirk receiving her prize at the Caracala Spa Ladies Open.
St Patrick’s Day players entering into the Irish spirit or at least the colour scheme!
26
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
Ana Nyblom gets more than she bargained for.
LA CALA NEWS
AON loud in praise of La Cala
T
he AON Corporation held a golf competition for customers and associates in the resort at the end of June. Aon is a global provider of insurance brokerage services, insurance products and risk and insurance advice, as well as other consulting services, conducting business in more than 120 countries. Over 100 people attended the event, which was the company’s first golf day in Andalucía. There was a special prize of a Smart car for a hole-in-one on the 9th (see photo on right), but this went unclaimed. Following 18 holes on Campo Europa, lunch was served in the new covered terrace of the clubhouse. Company director, Álvaro Martín Quevedo was loud in his praise of La Cala as a location and for the organisation of the event. “We were very proud to receive such unanimous praise from our customers about the event, its location in the magnificent La Cala Resort and the superb organisation of the day. Everything was looked after to the smallest detail.”
Peugeot Challenge Cup
C
ongratulations to Carol Rees and José Luis Oliva Rodriguez-Pastor who qualified for the national finals of the Peugeot Challenge Cup after leading the qualification competition held at the resort in May. Seventy seven players took part in the event, played in testy, windy conditions on Campo Asia. José Luis shot a nett 67 off 18 handicap to record the best men’s score while Carol’s 74 off 12 was the leading return by a lady. The best scratch score of the day was a fine 75 gross by Antonio Cecilla Donoso. The competition was organised in conjunction with the Fuengirola/Mijas Peugeot dealership, Bugar Motor. Managing Director, Pedro Narváez, was very happy with the first staging of the event in La Cala. “I’m delighted with the running of the competition at La Cala. The organisation of the event was excellent and all the competitors were very happy with the day. Everything went according to plan and the only thing we couldn’t change was the wind, which made conditions quite difficult. We
certainly hope to return to the resort in the near future with another golfing event.”
The ladies winner Carol Rees (centre) with the event organisers.
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
27
LA CALA NEWS
First TaylorMade Junior Championship
T
Some of the players in the Junior Championship
he first TaylorMade Junior Championship to be played at the resort took place at the end of June. Limited to under-22s, 85 players took part. The main competition was played over 18 holes on Campo Asia while the
under-10s played a 12-hole competition on the resort’s par three course. The standard was very high with the scratch winner, Dean Maassen, shooting a level par round of 72. Two of the players were sons of the famous singer Julio Iglesias. TaylorMade is one of the largest golf equipment manufacturers in the world. It is part of the Adidas group and in late 2005 it officially became the number 1 driver in golf. TaylorMade-adidas Golf had its first 1 billion dollar revenue year in 2006, marking only the second time a golf brand has achieved this in the history of the industry. Company spokesman Marco Cuevas said “We are proud to have sponsored this fantastic junior event at La Cala this year. Our aim is to help encourage and develop junior golf on the Costa del Sol. We will be privileged to sponsor this competition for many years to come, in conjunction with the David Leadbetter Golf Academy.
First Summer Parent & Child competition
Pedro Gracia & Antonio Pimentel.
T
he first ever Parent & Child competition to be held during the summer at the resort took place in early August. The
competition has traditionally been held at Easter and it was decided to add a summer staging in addition to Easter due to a large number of requests from golfing families who thoroughly enjoy the format, as it offers the chance for two generations to play together. Almost 40 pairings, the largest ever entry for the competition, battled it out for the title. The format used was Greensomes and it was played on Campo Europa. Given the difficult format, where the players take every second shot, there were some very good results. The winners, Pedro Gracia and Antonio Pimentel, who were both playing off 18 handicap, managed 44 points. Results: 1st Pedro Gracia & Antonio Pimentel 2nd Richard Goldman & Forbes Goldman 3rd Juan Jose Dominguez & Sergio Dominguez 4th Carlo Lucca & Alberto Lucca 5th Carlos Pelaez & Carmen Triviño
28
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
44 points 43 points 41 points 41 points 40 points
LA CALA NEWS
Feria La Cala de Mijas Trophy
T
he 12th Feria de Mijas trophy played at the resort at the end of July was a total sell-out with 120 players taking part. The competition was played on Campo America in perfect conditions. This was reflected in the excellent scoring on slope adjusted handicaps. The competition was divided into three sections. The scratch to 16.4 handicap section went to José Antonio Rivas (11) with 45 points, while the 16.5 to 25.4 section was won by Alfonso Mata (18) with 41 points. The 25.5 to 36.4 handicap section went to Antonio Carmona with 41 points.
Town Hall and the presentation of prizes was performed by two Mijas councillors, Mª Del Carmen Jiménez and Fuensanta Lima who expressed their satisfaction with the ongoing success of the annual event that continues to attract high entry levels and focuses attention on the Mijas area.
Category 1 winner, José Antonio Rivas, and Mijas councillors, Fuensanta Lima & Mª Del Carmen Jiménez.
The competition was sponsored by the Mijas Results: Category 1: Hcp —16.4 1st José Antonio Rivas (11) 2nd Rochelle Morris (8) 3rd Guillermo Morreno (13)
45 points 38 points 36 points
Category 2: Hcp 16.5—25.4 1st Alfonso Gonzalez 2nd Diego Gomez 3rd Ramiro Eliseo Cupeiro
41 points 38 points 37 points
Category 3: Hcp 25.5—36.4 1st Antonio Carmona 2nd Manuel Gonzalez 3rd Luis Martinez
41 points 37 points 36 points
SOS Animal Charity Day
T
he SOS Animal Charity day held in early May was a great success, attracting over 80 players and raising over €2,200. Organiser, Stan Moxon, said it was “fantastic” and everyone really enjoyed themselves. After the golf, which was played on Campo Asia, there was a buffet lunch with drinks. SOS is based in the Fuengirola/Mijas area of the Costa del Sol. Part of their mission is to alleviate the problem of stray cats and dogs in the area by a programme of re-homing them in either Spain or Northern Europe. For more information visit www.sosanimals.org.
Results: 1st S. Eaton, K. Eason, D. Eason, G. Pearson. 2nd M. Robbins, P. Daly, G. Kirk, A. Kirk. 3rd P. Barker, J. King, M. Whitwell, K. Stenson.
The SOS premises in Mijas.
Autumn 2008 - Spring 2009
29
REAL ALTAVISTA GOLF IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROJECT OF LUXURY APARTMENTS, LOCATED IN A NATURAL RETREAT WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF OUR 3 GOLF COURSES. • Panoramic views of La Cala Resort • Golf Membership available • Exclusive Community with private pool and landscaped gardens • Resort Management Company offers complete after - sales services
• 2 and 3 bedroom luxurious frontline golf apartments with high standard quality fi ttings. • 2 Bedroom 148m2 plus private garage and storeroom • 3 Bedroom 190m2 plus private garage and storeroom
LA CALA NEWS
The sudden death takes place of FBD President, Philip Fitzsimons
T
he sudden death occurred of the FBD President, Philip Fitzsimons, on Saturday night, April 19th. He was taken ill while attending a company-related function at Faithlegg House Hotel in Ireland. Philip, who was 60, had headed FBD since 2003. He had spent all his working life with the company. He was also President of La Cala Golf Club S.A. and Rachos Reunidos S.A.. He is survived by his wife Paula and their five children. The funeral service was attended by La Cala’s M.D., Denis Foley, club and company secretary, Joaquín Jiménez, Director of Golf, Alan Saunders and the longest serving director of the golf club, Lars Granberg.
“At our tapas and cocktails after the meetings he would be sure to speak to all those present and listen to all our ideas and/or complaints with patience and interest. He was always the politest of men and represented his company with dignity and commitment. We will miss him at La Cala, and all the shareholders and members send his family our sincere condolences and sympathy.”
The funeral of Philip Fitzsimons
Sylvia, shot a magnificent 44 points to win the guests’ category. In the past captains’ team event the following day, Sylvia recorded a hole-in-one on the 16th of Campo America.
The past captains
La Cala’s first captain Iain Macaulay and Philip first became acquainted in the late 1990s: “The many members who knew or who had attended the many AGM meetings he chaired at La Cala, are all shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Philip Fitzsimons, CEO of our major shareholder FBD. Our individual relationships with him were always more as a personal friend rather than as ‘the boss’ of the ultimate owner.
First Philip Fitzsimons Memorial Cup
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n late June it was decided to inaugurate the Philip Fitzsimons Memorial Cup and award it to the winner of the annual past captains’ day competition. Campbell McGarvie, the captain in 2005, shot 37 points to win by two from Sue Young, with Francisco Cervilla in third. Campbell’s wife and current lady captain, Results: 1) Campbell McGarvie 2) Susan Young 3) Francisco Cervilla 4) Edna Sullivan 5) Erling Johnsen 6) Iain Macaulay 7) Don Cameron
Score 37 35 33 32 26 24 21
Capt/Year 2005 2000 2007 2001 1999 1998 2004
Guest: 1) Sylvia McGarvie 2) Brian Gray 3) Ian Young 4) Ron Sullivan 5) Enda O´Brien
Score 44 36 34 30 20
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200 carers spend a day at the resort
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wo hundred carers of the elderly from all over Andalucía spent a day at the resort at the end of June. The trip was organised by the Geron Foundation in conjunction with the Junta
de Andalucía and was attended by the mayor of Mijas, Antonio Sánchez. The participants enjoyed the Caracala Spa, putting competitions and Tai Chi classes before a gala lunch that was followed by dancing. This was the second year such a trip was organised and its purpose was simply to provide carers with a day of luxury and enjoyment in recognition of the demanding and valuable work that they perform. Studies by the foundation have indicated that this work often leads to personal problems such as depression and also problems with other family members. The foundation’s Vice-President, Sebastián Domínguez, said they were very pleased with La Cala as a venue and added that the facilities and attention they received were excellent.
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LA CALA NEWS
Top golfer unveils world record plaque at La Cala Resort
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imon Dyson has unveiled the presentation plaque to commemorate La Cala Resort’s achievement in setting a Guinness World Record for the highest number of golfers to play in a single competition in the same venue. Unveiled a year to the date after the record was set, the English European Tour winner said it was “a really impressive achievement” and he congratulated all involved. The event took place in late July 2007, in collaboration with Mijas Town Hall. In total 614 players competed and it also raised €18,000 for UNICEF. La Cala Resort and UNICEF have also been officially honoured by the Málaga Tourism Board for staging the event at an award ceremony in Ronda. In total, six prizes were awarded to Malaga-based initiatives that attracted tourism business to the region. The winners were selected because of the level and volume of business they generated. The Managing Director of Turismo Andaluz, Rafael Centeno, stressed the importance of the awards as an instrument to promote meetings and conference tourism. He pointed out that nationally, Andalucía ranked only behind Madrid in the sector. This is the third time the bi-annual awards have been presented and they are intended to reward and thank event organisers who are working with the Tourism Board and contributing to the industry in the area. The La Cala award was also in recognition of the important role played by the golf industry combined with the worldwide promotion of the
area and the fundraising for charity. La Cala’s Director of Leisure, José Navas, said he was delighted that the World Record was recognised locally. “We are pleased that we could promote the area internationally and simultaneously raise funds for UNICEF. Málaga has long been recognised as a top-class golf destination. As Spain’s largest golf resort, we feel we are in a position to promote this fantastic location, not only amongst the golfing community but also to a wider audience. Therefore, it is gratifying to be recognised by the Tourism Board and we will continue to work together to guarantee the future of Málaga as a destination for all types of tourism.” The awards were presented at a gala dinner in the famous Ronda bullring. Guests attended from 18 countries. Music was provided by the Provincial Orchestra of Málaga. Simon Dyson with the Guinness World Record plaque.
José Navas, Director of Leisure La Cala Resort & Isabel López Calderón, Vice –president UNICEF, Andalucía.
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Interclub Day
E The winning Desert Springs team with the La Cala Resort captains, Sylvia McGarvie (far left) and Brian Gray (far right).
who beat the home club into second place with Guadalmina third. The Desert Springs victory was all the more impressive as the team had only played one practice round on the course, Campo Asia, the day before the event. Other clubs that played for the first time this year include Antequera and Novo Sancti Petri.
ight clubs from across Andalucía contested the annual interclub day, held at the resort in early June. The teams were comprised of four fourballs and the team score was the total of their stableford results. The eventual winners were Desert Springs from Almería
The interclub day was introduced to offer clubs the opportunity to play free of charge in a team format at the resort. There was an extremely positive reaction from the participants with most planning to return next year. Results: 1st Desert Springs 2nd La Cala Golf Club 3rd Guadalmina Golf 4th Santa Clara Golf 5th Atalaya Golf 6th Golf Novo Sancti Petri 7th El Paraiso Club de Golf 8th Golf Antequera
143 points 133 points 129 points 127 points 117 points 115 points 113 points 104 points
SPA MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE If you like our spa (and we know you will), why not apply for membership? Membership is available on a weekly, monthly, four monthly or annual basis. Membership offers you extra benefits at the spa and gymnasium in addition to great discounts throughout the resort. Weekly membership is €120 with a full year’s subscription only €950. Owners and golf club members have preferential rates.
Benefits included in the membership programme: • Access to the Spa Experience, Hydrotherapy Pool and Exercise Pools for up to 3 hours each day. • Access to the gymnasium at the clubhouse. • Access to professional skin-care advice. • Use of private lockers, complimentary towels and robes. • Discounts on hotel prices, tennis courts and in the bars and restaurants.
Caracala Spa: The Costa del Sol’s finest indoor/outdoor spa facility • Spa Experience/Thermal Suite • Treatments: Spa Packages, Body Treatments, Hair & Beauty Treatments, Special Treatments for Men
• Product Range: Decleor & Ytsara • Membership & Gift Vouchers • Open 10:00 to 20:00 • Located in Hotel La Cala
Contact us: Tel: 952 669 010 Fax: 952 669 042
spa@lacala.com www.lacala.com
HOTEL & SPA PACKAGES 2008
SPECIALLY FOR GOLFERS
HOTEL & SPA PACKAGES 2 Nights B&B and Energy Booster, from €251 pp + 7% VAT 3 Nights B&B and a Beauty Break, from €316 pp + 7% VAT 5 Nights B&B and a Tranquillity Escape, from €532 pp + 7% VAT 7 Nights B&B and a 3 day Destress and Pamper Programme, from €824 pp + 7% VAT
Golfers Revival €60 pp incl. VAT Spa Experience, Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage, Selected Herbal Infusion.
10% Discount when you book 90 days in advance Don’t forget, you can also book online at
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Spa Experience (2 Hours) €30 pp incl. VAT The Thermal Suite which includes: Hammam, Herbal Steam Room, Garden Crystal Sauna, Experience Showers, Igloo, Kneipp Foot Baths, Tepidarium with heated seats and Relaxation Room. The Indoor and Outdoor Hydropools plus Sun Deck. The Indoor Exercise Pool. Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage (25 mins.) A localised treatment for commonly tense areas.
€35 pp incl. VAT
Tel: 952 669 016 • Fax: 952 669 013 hotel@lacala.com
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