Spring - Summer 2009 - nº 31
EuroPro Tour - La Cala Junior Masters -Best Golf Resort in Andalucía - Biggest Golf Resort in Spain - 20 Years’ Celebration - New Captains
LA CALA NEWS
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Spring - Summer 2009
LA CALA NEWS
WELCOME
Dear Members, Residents and Guests, Welcome once again to the latest newsletter where we review what’s been happening at the resort over the past few months and look ahead to the coming summer and autumn seasons. This is a very important year for the resort. In 1989 we laid the first bricks of the clubhouse and work began on the first nine holes of Campo Asia, then called the South Course. What a lot has happened since then with more than a million visitors playing our three 18-hole courses, which together with the par 3 course, make us the biggest golf resort in the country. Inside, you will find some photos from the very early days that give an idea of the scale of our development to date. All concerned must be very proud of how the resort has progressed. Elsewhere in the newsletter, you can read about the important competitions we have staged recently, such as the EuroPro Tour Masters, the Spanish National Junior Ranking, the Junior Masters and the Golf World Open. We were very pleased to be awarded ‘Best Golf Resort in Andalucía’, by the important publication Andalucía Golf. The decision was made by an independent panel of industry experts in the region and being the inaugural year of the awards, we were especially delighted to be selected. Everyone knows these are difficult economic times and at La Cala Resort we are working hard to ensure that we continue to offer great value to all our customers. I feel confident that when you take time to look at our offers and special deals, you will be pleasantly surprised at the rates. We are constantly revising our deals and I recommend you to visit www.lacala.com on a regular basis to view the latest offers. 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. As we look back twenty years to 1989, it is worth noting that the resort was confronted with challenging times similar to today when Europe entered recession in the early 1990s. La Cala was able to survive that downturn due to the strength and support of the resort’s main promoter, the publicly quoted Irish Insurance company FBD Holdings plc. Today, we are fortunate to have the continued support and involvement of FBD as we adapt to the new environment in which we find ourselves. I am confident, based on our track record over many years, that we have the people, plans and strength to ensure that La Cala continues to be one of the leading residential golf resorts in Southern Europe. Last but not least, I am delighted to wish Mike Fisher and Vivien Shute every success in their roles as captains for this year. Until the next edition in the autumn, I hope you enjoy your time with us.
CONTENTS: Spring - Summer 2009 - nº 31
Denis Foley Managing Director La Cala Resort EuroPro Tour - National Junior Ranking - La Cala Junior Masters -Best Golf Resort in Andalucía - Biggest Golf Resort in Spain - 20 Years’ Celebration - New Captains
4, 5 6 7 7 19-22 30
EuroPro Tour La Cala Junior Masters Best Golf Resort in Andalucía Biggest Golf Resort in Spain 20 Years’ Celebration New Captains La Cala Resort 2009 Captains, Mike Fisher & Vivien Shute.
Thanks to www.juliosevillano.com and www.legia.com for some of the photographic material. Some of the companies and organisations that feature in this edition:
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
Parry wins Ivobank EuroPro Tour Ladbrokescasino.com Masters
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he Ivobank EuroPro Tour Ladbrokescasino. com Masters played on Campo Asia last September was won by England’s John Parry, whose 12-under par total of 132 gave him a two shot victory over Matthew Ford, with Colin Roope a shot further back in third. The tournament is part of the Ivobank PGA EuroPro Tour, regarded as the world’s leading developmental Tour. Parry (Harrogate GC) dropped just one shot in the 36-hole tournament, with the opening day cancelled due to rain. He posted 67 in his opening round to sit two shots behind the leaders at five under, before a faultless final round of 65 clinched the title.
L to R: Alan Saunders, Director of Golf, Matthew Ford, John Parry & Colin Roope.
Birdies at the first, seventh and eleventh moved Parry to eight under and an eagle at 14 took him level with clubhouse leader Matthew Ford at ten under. Pars at 15 and 16 preceded birdies on the last two holes to take him to 12 under for the tournament and the £10,000
winner’s cheque. “I was steady up to the last five holes and the eagle really did it for me – I guess I kind of sneaked in under the radar towards the end. I wasn’t quite sure how the others were getting on and I was just concentrating on my own game really. I was good from tee to green both days, hitting pretty much every green and I never put any pressure on my putting. The course was in really nice condition and puts the emphasis on accuracy and distance control. If you hit the fairways you can go low but if you miss the fairways it’s pretty much a lost ball,” said Parry. Second placed Matthew Ford agreed, “The course was good but quite demanding. I was playing with Colin (Roope) and it was like the Ryder Cup. When he made a birdie I did also and we were high fiving. Ford also posted 65 for his final round – with six birdies in the last eight holes of his tournament. Among those to miss the cut, which was set at 1-under, was Order of Merit leader Noel Fox from Dublin who shot a level par 72. Noel is a good friend of British Open and US PGA champion Padraig Harrington and Harrington’s caddy Ronan Flood, who also caddied for Fox on the opening day.
Ronan Flood and Noel Fox on the 10 th tee.
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The tour is owned by Matchroom Sport and run by the PGA. Operations Manager Danny Nickless explains that the Tour has gone from strength to strength since the two organisations came together in 2002. “The Tour has improved every year and so has the prize money. We now have 16 tournaments and that is the maximum we want at the moment. Only three are outside the UK and Ireland; the Tour Championship in France, an event in Portugal and the Ladbrokescasino.com Masters here in La Cala. This is the second year of this tournament and we decided to come to Spain as last year it was held in England and it never stopped raining. La Cala was very suitable for us because of its three courses, which give it the flexibility to hold a tournament and still cater for its green fee customers and members and also because of its on-site hotel, which makes transport and organisation a lot easier. We are very happy with how everything has gone. Nothing could be done about the rain on the first day but the rest of the week was uninterrupted. It’s been a good tournament and the Pro-Am was also a big success and a fantastic break for the invitees.” The tournament was later broadcast on the Sky Sports digital network that serves the U.K. and Ireland.
LA CALA NEWS
The Matchroom team of Kevin Lye, Edwin Martin and Richard Cipa won the Pro-Am that was played on the Sunday and Monday before the tournament began. The professionals who played with the winning side were Jason Kelly and Lloyd Kennedy. Most of the teams were comprised of VIP customers of Ladbrokescasino. com. There were also winners of a Golf Monthly magazine competition and cardholders of the La Cala & You loyalty scheme. The players came mostly from the U.K., Ireland and Scandinavia.
Tour Q-school on more than one occasion and in 2007 it welcomed the Spanish Professionals’ Pairs final which was won by Miguel Ángel Jiménez and Andrés Jiménez. By hosting major international amateur events, La Cala has also welcomed a number of European Tour winners such as Álvaro Quirós and Pablo Martín before they joined the paid ranks.
Winner, John Parry, in action during the final round.
The Ladbrokescasino.com Marketing Manager, Ruairi Boyle, was delighted with the competition and said he had not received one negative comment from his 63 guests. “The venue here at La Cala is truly fantastic. The weather was perfect and the food and accommodation were also really good. Last year was the first year of this tournament and it was held in Croydon in the U.K.. However, it’s a better idea for us to take our top customers abroad as it is more relaxing for them. One of our female guests spent a day by the hotel pool and in Caracala Spa and she told me it was the most relaxing day she ever spent.” La Cala Resort has hosted the Ladies European
The players before the start of the Pro- Am.
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LA CALA NEWS
World number two presents Andalucía with La Cala Junior Masters
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ndalucía, the winning team in the La Cala Junior Masters, received their prizes this January from Jorge Campillo, the world number two amateur player. The annual inter-federation 36-hole strokeplay competition takes place every January at La Cala Resort. Teams of two boys and two girls competed over two days on Campo America, with the best three scores on each day counting. Jorge Campillo represented Extremadura in the same event in 2006. This year nine federations, representing all parts of mainland Spain and the Canary Islands, took part in the competition on Campo America. Andalucía’s winning captain, Jacinto Sánchez Montoro, said it was, “an excellent experience for the players to compete in teams and was a great start to the competitive season.” Jacinto’s daughter, Rocío, shot an impressive one-under par 71 in difficult conditions in the first round, the best score of the day by six shots. She had just returned from the premier international tournament for juniors, the Doral Publix Junior in Florida, USA, where she came second. Jacinto paid tribute to the organisation of the Junior Masters in La Cala saying it was “top class and was a fine challenge of golf.”
The president of junior golf in Andalucía, Manuel Garvayo García, said it is great to have such a high-level competition at La Cala at the start of the season, describing Campo America as a “challenging and demanding course.” Manuel stated he felt that the success of Andalucía in the Junior Masters was due in part to the strong connection between the clubs and the federation, adding that it was important for the promising juniors to play in teams. This was the third time that Andalucía has won the title since its inception in 2004. The first staging of the competition in 2004, saw some of the top names in amateur golf in Spain competing. These included subsequent European Tour winners; Pablo Martín Benavides and Álvaro Quirós. Amongst the girls who took part were Belén Mozo and Azahara Muñoz who were part of the victorious European Ping Junior Solheim Cup team in Sweden in 2003. A native of Cáceres in Extremadura, Jorge Campillo is studying at the University of Indiana in the U.S.. His current handicap is +3.8. Jorge competed in a number of junior events in La Cala and described Campo America as “very testing and enjoyable with narrow greens that place a premium on accuracy and distance control.”
The winning Andalucía team
Jorge Campillo
La Cala Resort welcomes top Spanish juniors
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he leading Spanish junior golfers from all the country played their annual national ranking competition in the resort during February. This competition, together with the national championships, is used to select the u-12, u-14 and u-16 national, junior squads. The quality of the golfers was exceptionally high with handicaps in the u-16 category starting from +1, the u-14s starting from 1 and the u-12s from 5. The boys’ competition was held on Campo America and the girls played Campo Asia. Both courses were in great condition and proved to be very testing with strengthening winds and fast greens. There was a large crowd of spectators present with parents and coaches following many of the players. Macarena Tey Duclos, Director of the Royal Spanish Golf Federation’s Juvenile Committee said they were delighted with condition of the courses and the organisation of the competition. “It was the first time we were able to have both the boys’ and girls’ events in the same complex. This led to a great atmosphere.” Manuel Garvayo García is the President of the Federation’s Junior Committee. “It was a great event with a fabulous mix of ages. It is more than a golf competition as there is also great friendship between the players and their parents. It was very important to have both the boys’ and girls’ tournaments in the
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same location and it was a total success.” La Cala Resort is at the forefront of the promotion of junior golf and hosts numerous junior events at local, national and international level.
L to R: Ana Nyblom, La Cala Resort, the girls’ u-16 winner, Camilla Hedberg, and Manuel Garvayo García.
LA CALA NEWS
La Cala Resort continues to be the biggest in Spain
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a Cala continues to be the largest golf resort in Spain. For the fourth consecutive year, the Royal Spanish Golf Federation has confirmed that La Cala, with 60 holes, is the country’s largest golf resort. In total there are now 380 golf clubs in the country, an increase of 21 over the previous year. Andalucía, with 96 is the region with the most clubs, followed by Catalonia with 46. During the year 10 new 18-hole courses were federated as well as eight 9-holes, one par 3 and three pitch and putt courses.
Andalusian Golf Federation. “The RFGA is delighted that La Cala Resort continues as the market leader for golf resorts in the country. It shows the importance of Andalucía as a major golf destination and highlights the range of world class facilities in the region. La Cala has not sacrificed quality for size and the standard of its courses and facilities is evidenced by the number of prestigious national and international competitions held on its three 18-hole courses.”
6 th Hole, Campo America.
The Mayor of Mijas, Antonio Sánchez, welcomed the announcement. “Mijas Town Hall is proud that the market leader and largest golf resort in the country is one of the facilities available in the municipality. We recognise the positive impact for the whole area of having such a prestigious development located here and feel sure that La Cala Resort will continue to lead the way in promoting tourism and economic activity in the area. We now recognise that the resort is well recognised at a European level and this also has a very positive impact for Mijas and whole Costa del Sol area.” The news has also been welcomed by The
La Cala Resort voted as the best golf complex in Andalucía
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a Cala Resort has been voted the best golf resort in Andalucía by a panel of industry experts. The award was one of five presented during the inaugural Andalucian Golf Awards, organised by the prestigious industry publication, Andalucía Golf. Miguel Ángel Jimenéz and Azahara Muñoz were adjudged the best golfers in 2008, Valderrama received the award as the best course and its owner, Jaime Patiño, received a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to golf in the region. The Junta de Andalucía and the Patronato de Turismo in the Costa del Sol also received awards in recognition of their work in promotion of the golf industry. The adjudication panel was drawn from the main golfing associations and official bodies in the area.
who has stood out for his or her contribution and commitment to golf in Andalucía. La Cala’s Leisure Manager, José Navas, said he was delighted to accept the award on behalf of the resort. “As Spain’s largest golf resort, we are very aware of our role in the promotion of the industry in the region. We always try to give the best, most professional service to all our customers as the key is to get golfers to return to La Cala and to Andalucía. I would like to give credit to our staff whose professionalism is evidenced by the number of return customers to the complex.”
L to R: Pedro Negrette, General Property Manager, José Navas, Director of Leisure & Denis Foley, Managing Director.
The awards were presented during a gala dinner in Marbella in November. The editor of Andalucía Golf, Antonio Sánchez, said the awards were initiated to offer richly-deserved tributes to an industry that gives so much to tourism in Andalucía and he promised they will be held on an annual basis. “Every year from this edition we will gather leading representatives of the industry together for a magnificent gala to honour the season’s best: the golfer, the course, the resort, the institution that has done most to promote our golfing region and a special award for an individual
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LA CALA NEWS
La Cala GolfWorld Open attracts over 100 players from all over Europe
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ver 100 players for all over Europe competed for the 4th La Cala GolfWorld Open played at the end of November. This 54-hole event is unique in the region as the competitors play the three La Cala 18-hole courses: Campo America, Campo Asia and Campo Europa over three days. There is a real party atmosphere for the tournament with the pairings changing each day and this combined with the unique format and excellent weather means many of the players now consider it a permanent fixture in their diaries. Indeed, a large number of the competitors signed up for next year’s event immediately after the gala dinner.
Rory presenting Paul with his first prize.
The competitors wave for the cameras on day 1.
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In spite of the large field, the top prize was kept in the family; the family in question being the Gilsenans from Meath in Ireland. The defending champion was 16-handicapper Rory Gilsenean and he handed over his title to his 21-handicapper brother, Paul, who won this year’s event by seven points from Victor José Macias. A third Gilsenan brother who competed this year, 6-handicapper Donal, didn’t leave empty handed either as he won
LA CALA NEWS
longest drive and nearest-the-pin prizes. There was an increased number of Spanish players this year in addition to golfers from all over the U.K. and Ireland, Scandinavia, Iceland and Finland. Paul Gilsenan described the event as a great week and fantastic value for money. He said he looks forward to seeing the same faces at each staging of the event and to renewing friendships made through the competition. La Cala’s Director of Leisure is José Navas. “This competition just goes from strength to strength. The fact that so many of the players are returning year after year and recommending it to their friends is proof enough that the combination of the unique format, the great weather and the competitive pricing has resulted in something very attractive to the golfing market. We also run special trips and outings for non-golfing companions to nearby areas of interest and have special programmes in our spa. Just by wordof-mouth this is becoming one of our biggest competitions of the year.” There was also a full programme for nongolfers, including thermal circuits and treatments at Caracala Spa and day trips to local areas of interest. Pictured below are some of the group during a visit to the typical Andalusian white village of Mijas, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Costa del Sol.
For details of the 2009 La Cala GolfWorld Open, see page 27
On top of the world on Campo Asia’s 2nd tee.
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Monte Alto is located within La Cala Resort, the biggest golf complex in Spain. The resort also has the five-star Hotel La Cala, the luxurious Caracala Spa and the only David Leadbetter golf academy in the country. Each property in this exclusive development of 102 luxury townhouses has been architecturally designed with painstaking attention to detail. Set in natural, unspoiled surroundings with breathtaking views to the mountains and across the golf valley to the Mediterranean. All the townhouses are spacious with natural light. They have been finished with top quality fittings and are ready for immediate occupancy.
• Two & three-level townhouses. • Views to Mediterranean, the golf valley and the Mijas mountains. • Bedrooms with large terraces. • Fabulous lounge with fireplace and quiet terrace, ideal for summer dining. • Hot/Cold air conditioning in all rooms & underfloor heating in all bathrooms. • Marble floors throughout. • Alarm system and electric shutters. • Spacious, fully fitted wardrobes. • Short drive to sandy beaches, coastal town and all amenities. • Exquisite choice of material and attention to details. • Contemporary Mediterranean construction. • Private gated community with video entry phone. • Each property has its own private underground garage. • Fully fitted kitchens, including electrical appliances. • Ample terraces and private gardens facing the golf courses.
A family golf membership for the three courses is included when you buy a townhouse from the promoter.
The La Cala Property Sales team is available 7 days a week to answer any inquiries you may have regarding the Monte Alto development. La Cala Resort also has an inhouse legal team and an after-sales department that can look after all your administrative requirements.
The Property Sales Team Elena Montes & Nicole Kniesel
For further information please contact:
property@lacala.com • www.lacala.com Tel. +34 952 669 027 Fax. +34 952 669 022
LA CALA LA CALA NEWSNEWS
Sanjiv and Jennifer Jari
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ne of the first couples to reserve a house in the Monte Alto development, Sanjiv and Jennifer Jari from Cheshire in the U.K., have taken possession of the property and are delighted with their purchase. Jari, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon, is the joint owner and director of the Manchester Sports Medicine Clinic and together with Jennifer and Hemma (8) and Priya (5), they plan to use the house for lots of long weekend visits as well as for longer summer breaks. “We had been looking for a property in Spain for three years and we went to many other golf complexes. As soon as we saw this property we knew we had found just what we wanted,” explains Jennifer. “It is only eight minutes from the beach but is away from all the hullabaloo of the tourist season. We want to learn to play golf as a family and the choice of courses and the practice facilities were also a big attraction. Being near to Málaga airport is also a big plus as we are only three miles from Manchester airport and there are loads of airlines flying the route.” Sanjiv says they are delighted with the way the property and the development has turned out. “Since we bought offplan, we didn’t know exactly how the views would turn out but the location is fantastic. It’s also great to have the pool so near. Most of the owners use their properties themselves so you can get to know your neighbours and there is a good community feeling.” “We use the hotel and clubhouse a lot and the Caracala Spa is absolutely stunning, its a fabulous facility,” adds Jennifer.
Sanjiv specialises in treating lower limb conditions and has dealt with a lot of professional sportspeople, including Premier League and Rugby League teams. In addition, he is team surgeon for the British Wrestling squad. “A number of ex-pats come to me for treatment from Spain. The location of the clinic makes it easy to get to from the airport. However, I’m interested in looking at the possibility of setting up a clinic here too as there are many UK-trained physiotherapists living here. I would like to spend more time in Spain for the lifestyle and climate and that is easier to manage now with high-speed internet. More information about Sanjiv’s clinic is available at www. thekneedoc.co.uk.
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LA CALA NEWS
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ast winter was a very busy time for the resort with a number of important football clubs training in the complex before the resumption of their domestic seasons. Sparta Prague (Czech Republic), Legia Warsaw (Poland), SC Freiburg (Germany) and Dynamo Moscow (Russia) all availed
of the resort’s training facilities. Apart from the opportunity to train in good weather condition and the range of professional facilities, the clubs are also attracted by the exclusive access they get to the grass football pitch that was built to FIFA specifications.
Sparta Prague
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The Sparta Prague team and staff in front of their official coach at Hotel la Cala.
he most successful football club in the Czech Republic, Sparta Prague was long the main source for the Czech Republic national football team and a number of outstanding players have played for the club
over the years. These include: Pavel Nedvěd, Petr Čech, Tomáš Rosický, Jan Koller, Karel Poborský, Patrik Berger and Ivan Hašek. Sparta are one of the most successful teams of Central Europe having reached the semifinals of the European Cup in 1992. This was their first training camp in La Cala and spokesman, Rudi Barta said they were very pleased with all aspects of the stay. “This is a really good venue for training. Everything has been perfect for us, the pitch, hotel, spa, gymnasium and food. The location is very quiet and yet it is near the airport and other pitches for friendly matches. This is the second half of our winter training schedule. Before we came to La Cala we spent a week in the mountains in the Czech Republic for conditioning. We are now well set for the remainder of the season after the training here in Mijas and the four friendly matches we played. We will certainly consider returning.”
Dynamo Moscow
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ynamo are one of the most famous Russian clubs and the current squad includes players from seven countries. In 1972, for the only time in the history of Russian football, they made it to the final of the European Cup Winners Cup but lost to Glasgow Rangers in Barcelona.
Dynamo Moscow training camp.
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Team manager, Alexander Kifelev said: “We have returned for the fourth time in the last five years because of the quality of the facilities and the exclusivity provided. We are the only football team using the pitch and the only team staying in the resort. This is very important for us as it gives us great privacy and also flexibility. In addition, we are treated very well here and the staff are more than willing to help us in any way. It is great to get the chance of warm-weather training at this time of year. The players have been very impressed with Caracala Spa in the hotel.”
LA CALA NEWS
Legia Warsaw
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ased in the capital of Poland, Legia Warsaw is one of the most successful Polish football clubs in history winning a total of eight league championships and a record 13 Polish cups. One of their best European runs to date was the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup 1990–91 where Legia advanced all the way to the semi-finals only to lose to the eventual champions Manchester United.
for the rest of the season, from the condition of the pitch and the ancillary facilities to the quality of the food and the hotel.”
Legia Warsaw’s acrobatic training session.
Legia has a very international squad with nine countries being represented. There are three Spaniards and central defender Alberto Ortiz Moreno (Tito), who’s on loan from Españyol, commented: “We are very happy that we chose La Cala Resort. In Andalusia there is always sun and great weather. We had great conditions here for training.” Polish forward, Kamil Majkowski added: “It is very nice here. It is my first time in Spain, and this country is wonderful. The hotel and resort is of a very high standard and in a beautiful location being so close to the mountains. Everything has been perfect to prepare us
SC Freiburg
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ased in the city of the same name in the southwest of the country, SC Freiburg, was renowned for having the longest-serving manager in the history of professional football in Germany, when Volker Finke served as manager from 1991 to 2007. When Finke was in charge the team always held its winter training break in Portugal and after breaking with tradition and going to Turkey last year, the club decided to return to Europe and chose La Cala Resort. Sports Director, Dirk Dufner, said they were totally delighted with the decision and would be keen to return to La Cala again next year. “We are really, really happy with all the facilities in
the complex. The hotel is excellent and so is the pitch. The players are also using the impressive Caracala Spa and gymnasium and in their spare time they can play golf. Although the weather has been a bit colder than usual here it is still great for us. It is now -10C in Freiburg, so we’re not complaining. This training camp has been excellent and should serve us well for the rest of the season as we push for promotion to the first division of the Bundesliga.” The club’s greatest success was reaching the UEFA Cup in 1995 and 2001.
The SC Freiburg squad on the La Cala pitch.
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LA CALA NEWS
Top Golf Writer visits the Tournament Golf College
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ewine Mair, one of the most important golf writers in the U.K., has visited the Tournament Golf College (TGC), which is based in the resort. The TGC offers a foundation science degree under the auspices of Plymouth University in the U.K.. The idea behind the course is to offer a degree level qualification for aspiring professional golfers that will prepare them for life on tour but also give them a business background should they later decide to pursue a golf-related business career.
Lewine Mair
Lewine Mair was the first woman to serve as the Daily Telegraph’s Golf Correspondent – she left in December after 12 years in the post – and was the first woman to have been given a specialist staff position on the sports pages of a national paper in the U.K.. She is now working for the Telegraph’s sports supplements department. Currently the chairman of the Association of Golf Writers, Lewine is also a contributing editor for Women & Golf magazine. During her visit to La Cala, Lewine spoke to the students on media relations and how to conduct themselves in public as professional golfers and how to represent themselves, their sponsors, the TGC and the resort. Lewine says she is fully supportive of the TGC and that it provides a badly needed service. “It’s important to encourage junior golfers to stay in education. Since lottery funding was introduced in the U.K., there has been pressure on the amateur associations to produce golfers of the highest calibre and the youngsters’ education is often suffering as a result. Some of the authorities give the impression that kids will miss out on this team if they are not available for all the squad sessions they have to offer.” Lewine pointed to TGC figures which suggest that only four out of 40 golfers aged between
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16 and 23 on top English Golf Union squads were still in education. She went on to say that she feels that too many young amateurs are expected to be like professionals too soon. “There needs to be a difference between amateur golf and professional golf,” she said. “Even at the highest levels, the amateur game should allow for a boy or girl to finish his or her schooling and to enjoy a bit of the game’s social side as well. “I am totally in favour of the TGC and have been supportive since the idea was first proposed in 2001. I’ve always heard Colin Montgomerie saying that the degree he got served as an insurance policy. Once he had got it, he felt safe giving golf his all because he knew that if something went wrong, he would be in a position to turn his hand to something else. “I hope the college takes off in a big way. It is very satisfying for parents who don’t want to dash their kids’ hopes of becoming professionals but are keen for them to have a useful qualification in the bag.” Lewine added, “This is my first time here at La Cala Resort and I love what I’ve seen. I also have a huge admiration for the way that the club has taken such a genuine interest in promoting junior golf and the ladies game – two areas which even in this day and age are often sadly neglected.” The 12 students, from the U.K., Ireland, France and Singapore, were based at the resort from January to March. They worked on class-based modules as well as honing their golf skills and physical fitness. Performance Director, Nick Sherriff, says La Cala is an ideal location for the course: “Our students will have a big advantage over other players when they return to play in big events after having had the opportunity to play throughout the start of the year here in La Cala. They have a choice of three courses and all the practice facilities at a time when many courses in their home countries are closed due to the weather conditions. In addition, the courses here are very demanding and present challenges many of them will not have been used to. They force the students to become competent at many important skills such as: course management, distance control, playing from sloping lies, etc. Their home federations are also very happy as they are not losing top-level players to the U.S. collegiate system. It is only a couple of hours from Spain to the rest of Europe and the players can still be involved in representative golf. This is just the first year and next year we already expect to increase the class size to about 60. The EuroPro Tour has already reserved a number of tournament slots for the leading students.”
GOLF RATES 2009
Green Fee
Green Fee
18 holes
Before 10:00
March, 1st - May, 23rd
€72
€72*
-
€180
May, 24th - August 31st
€45*
-
€199*
-
€22.50
September, 1st - 30th
€57*
-
-
€150*
€28.50
€72*
-
€180
€36
-
€199*
-
October, 1st - November, 30th €72 December, 1st - 31st
€45*
Season Ticket 3 Course Pass
ONE FREE FOR EACH 12 One green fee free of charge for each group booking of 12 players or more.
Junior
€36
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
€22.50
* Shared buggy included
3 COURSE PASS Play one round on each of our three 18-hole golf courses within a period of 14 days. GOLF & HOTEL PACKAGES For great combined golf & hotel deals visit pages 24 & 25.
Until May 23rd From 15:00
Visit: www.lacala.com for other Playing with Amigos dates during the year & for more great offers
FREE BUGGIES Check www.lacala.com for other deals offering free shared buggies.
Golf Competitions in 2009 April
5th laCala & You Open - Canada Cup 9th Caracala Spa Ladies Open 10th AESGOLF Annual Circuit 11th El Corte Ingles Trophy 12th Parent & Child Trophy 18th Peugeot Challenge Cup
May
16th Andalusian International Ladies Circuit 30th Andalucía Golf Circuit - La Cala Resort Trophy 31st Invitational Interclub Day
June
3rd Four Seasons Challenge 12th Max Clifford Celebrity World Cup Golf Challenge 21st TaylorMade Junior Championship
July
11th La Cala & You Summer Challenge 19th Feria La Cala de Mijas Trophy 25th Andalucía Golf Circuit - La Cala Resort Trophy
August
15th Promotur Circuit 19th Sun Spain Golf Open Tour 26th Final AESGOLF Summer Circuit
September
16th Four Seasons Challenge 19th Andalucía Golf Circuit - La Cala Resort Trophy 26th Circuit Match Quality Golf
November
Visit
w w w. l a c a l a .com Our Golf Reservations Call Centre is Open 7 days a Week from 8:00 to 20:00 Tel. (+34) 952 669 033 • Fax (+34) 952 669 034 E-mail: golf@lacala.com
19th Final ASGA Circuit 21st Andalucía Golf Circuit - La Cala Resort Trophy 25th La Cala GolfWorld Open 28th Cudeca Cup
December
7th Gran Premio de Mijas 12th Final Andalucía Golf Circuit - La Cala Resort Trophy 31st End of Year Tournament - San Miguel
LA CALA NEWS
Scratch Championship ends in close finish
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he club championships were held at the end of October, during the annual festival of golf, Members’ Festival Week. Most attention centred on the 36-hole scratch championships. The men’s event was won by just one shot with Sigursteinn Runarsson shooting a three over par total of 147 to win by just one shot from David Krajny. The competition was held over Campo Asia and Campo America. There was a real international flavour to the event with Iceland, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Holland and England all represented in the top ten. The ladies scratch event was won by Ursula Wetzel on 163, with Lucie Madlova second on 171 and Carol Rees third, another two shots further back. The men’s stableford champion is Terry Franklin (14) who also took the 14.5 and upwards category with 78 points. Danny Rees (12) won the up to 14.4 category with 69 points. The ladies stableford event went to Kirsti Makela with 59 points. The club championships were sponsored by Ranchos Reunidos and Prosegur.
Trophy fourball champions are the last two men’s captains, Brian Gray and Francisco Cervilla. They returned 41 points on Campo Europa, a score that was equalled by three other pairs. Carol and Danny Rees were second, Bertil Josefsson and Roland Nilsson came third and Anne and Raymond Clarke were fourth. The competition sponsors were Bancaja. Meanwhile, the first event of the week was the very popular Texas Scramble sponsored by La Cala Golf Club. One hundred players took part and afterwards enjoyed tapas and drinks in the clubhouse. The winning team was: Peter Goslar, Patrick Daly, Sonya Foster and Cecilia Massey. Members’ competition results can be checked on the monthly members’ and residents’ bulletin, The Mulligan at www.lacala.com
In another well-supported competition held during Members’ Festival Week, the Millennium
The Club Champions.
Stableford Winners
Sigursteinn Runarsson lines up a putt watched by David Krajny.
Fourball Winners
Texas Scramble Winners
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LA CALA NEWS
VII Property Owners’ Championship
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he VII La Cala Resort Property Owners’ Championship at the resort held last September was won by Jenny Chesterton (28) with 37 points. Jenny lives with husband Ron in the Real Altavista Golf apartment development. Sean Jewett (24) from the Las Colinas townhouse urbanisation on 38 points took the men’s section while Peter Robinson (11) with 30 points was the best invited guest. This was the seventh staging of this competition and 55 players took part, representing a 20% increase on last year. The competition was played in beautiful conditions on Campo America and was followed by tapas and the prize-giving on the clubhouse terrace Brian Farmer and James Reid enjoying the Property Owners’ day.
Property Agencies Golf Challenge
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a Cala Resort hosted its 8th Property Agencies Golf Challenge at the end of October. Over fifty property professionals from all along the Costa del Sol competed in the individual stableford on Campo Asia. The course was in pristine condition and some good scores were returned in spite of a strong breeze. The overall winner was Renny Brown of Buyrightspain on 35 points. In second place was Terry Birtles of Emma Chissett Homes on 33, while John Birch of Your Key to Spain was third with 32. The presentation of prizes was held in one of two apartments on special offer in Real Altavista Golf, a development of luxury apartments in the complex. The three prize-winners with Pedro Negrette and Elena Montes of La Cala Property Sales.
UNICEF Golf Circuit Final
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he golf circuit that was launched by UNICEF at La Cala Resort with the aim of buying a million doses of antibiotics to help children infected with HIV/AIDS, finished with the final also being held at La Cala. In all, there were eight competitions, raising a total of €18,000. UNICEF spokesman in Málaga, Antonio Jesús Coral González, said they were very pleased with the circuit and would definitely be continuing their involvement with golf next year. “Apart from the great sum of money raised, the circuit also raised our public profile and highlighted the important work we do. We will certainly run golf-based fundraising events next year but we have to meet to decide on the exact format.”
Over the last 60 years UNICEF has worked in 156 countries and territories in helping children to reach adolescence. It is the major provider of vaccinations in the world’s poorest countries, aids the health and nutrition of children, improves water quality, provides basic education, protects against violence and the impact of HIV/AIDS. The circuit winners in the three different handicap categories were: Francisco Ruiz Gonzalez, Daniel Cameron and Carmen De Luna Bellido
The circuit, called Relevo de Golf UNICEF, employed an Olympic theme with an Olympic-style torch symbolically going from course to course, collecting money for the charity. The circuit was enthusiastically supported by the brothers and sisters of the late Olympic skiing champion, Francisco (Paco) Fernández-Ochoa, who had offered his services as the torch bearer for the circuit when it was first proposed in 2001. Blanca Fernández-Ochoa said the family members were delighted to be able to assist in the promotion of the circuit in memory of their brother Paco, who was himself a fine golfer. As well as the circuit final, an open competition was also held at La Cala. In July 2007, when setting a Guinness World Record for the largest number of golfers to participate in one competition in one day, La Cala Resort raised over €18,000 for UNICEF.
Spring - Summer 2009
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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. Throughout the year the resort offers a wide variety of special culinary nights, featuring dishes from different regions of Spain and from other countries. We also offer live music, both in Hotel La Cala and in the clubhouse. Weddings The resort is one of the best locations you could choose for your wedding celebration or special banquet. Set amid the rolling hills and green fairways of the superb golf courses. The very select environment ensures a picturesque and memorable event. Unlike hotels on the coast whose high season is summer, La Cala can offer a greater selection of dates in addition to more privacy and personal attention during the summer months as well as in other seasons. In addition, you will find that our rates are extremely competitive. For more information, call our Groups Co-ordinator and Wedding Planner, RocĂo Freire on 952 669 025 or e-mail: comercial@lacala.com. Social Functions La Cala is proving to be extremely popular for all types of social functions, from small get-togethers to official celebrations. The range of options for every type of event is unparalleled, with function rooms and terraces to accommodate any size of group or event. For example, last January, resort residents, Brian and Muriel Elmore, held a special birthday celebration during January. The big day began with a golf competition and after the battle was completed on the fairways (and rough, bunkers, water, etc.), all involved retired to the El Mirador room in the clubhouse for dinner and the party celebrations. La Terraza Restaurant - OFFERING fusion food The menu of fusion food in La Terraza Restaurant, introduced by Executive Chef David H. Del Amo, has proved to be a big success. David, who has extensive experience in top restaurants in Spain, has decided to offer a fusion of Spanish and Oriental menus to complement the range of international dishes that has always been available. David is from Burgos in northern Spain and has many years experience in top restaurants. These include restaurant Martin Berasategui in San Sebastian, which received three stars from the Michelin Guide and which they also rated as one of the top 30 restaurants of the world and in Barcelona’s Neichel restaurant, which has two Michelin stars. The regional dishes of Spain allow him to showcase the cuisine of one of the emerging gastronomic cultures of Europe. Whenever possible he insists on using local produce and the menu also offers a wide range of popular Mediterranean and international dishes.
SPORT ON TV All major sporting events are broadcast live in the 19th Hole (clubhouse) or in Bar Califa (Hotel La Cala), Why not come along and watch your favourite sports in comfort? We have all the major sports channels, including Setanta Golf, with live coverage of the US PGA Tour.
La Cala Resort - Twenty Years growing
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his year marks the 20 th anniversary of the opening of Campo Asia and the effective opening of the resort. Those 20 years have witnessed huge changes and great development with the construction of two more 18-hole courses, a six-hole par 3 course and teaching academy, six urbanisations and numerous private villas, a clubhouse, hotel and spa, football pitch, gymnasium and other facilities. The resort has been officially recognised as the largest golf resort in Spain for the past four years and has also received numerous awards, the latest being ‘Golf Resort of the Year’ from the prestigious publication, Andalucía Golf. The complex has staged numerous important competitions such as the Ladies European Tour Q-school, The EuroPro Tour Masters and the Spanish Pairs final, won by Miguel Ángel Jiménez and Andrés Jiménez. Internationally recognised as a fantastic golfing destination, La Cala Resort each year welcomes elite squads and national teams from
many European countries and regions. Over the next three pages we are taking a trip down memory lane with a collection of photographs from the opening ceremony and early days. Given the old adage that a picture tells a thousand words, we hope you enjoy this glimpse of what was. On July 18th and 19 th we will have an anniversary celebration weekend with a golf competition over two days, a barbecue and a prize-giving dinner for current and former shareholders, members and their guests. This will be a great opportunity to catch up with old friends. In recognition of this important milestone a special package has been put together at an extremely reasonable price. More details on www.lacala.com/20years. Thanks to Joan Stock, Bjorn Magnusson, Erling Johnsen, Lennart Molander and Damien Murphy for the photographs. If anyone else has any photographs or other material from the early days and years of the resort we would love to hear from you as an exhibition of memorabilia is planned to coincide with the anniversary celebration weekend.
LA CALA NEWS
Final of the La Cala Resort Madrid Circuit
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he final has been held of the La Cala Resort Madrid Circuit, held in conjunction with the Madrid Golf Technical Centre and the Royal Spanish Golf Federation. More than 400 golfers took part in the five qualification competitions at the Technical Centre, played from March to July last year. The best two scores from each competition made it through to the final, held on Campo Europa.
All the finalists were delighted with their stay in the resort and expressed their hope that the circuit would be repeated soon.
The circuit follows on from an agreement signed between the Federation and La Cala Resort to increase mutual cooperation and allow Madrid players to benefit from special discounts and offers at the complex. The Federation has over 87,000 members but there are only 24 courses in the Madrid area, resulting in great difficulties in securing tee times. Given the excellent yearround climate of the Costa del Sol and the new high-speed AVE train links from the capital to Málaga, as the largest resort in the country, La Cala is in a position to welcome large numbers of Madrid golfers. The Circuit final winner, Rosa Roca with Nicole Kniesel and Ana Nyblom of La Cala Resort
La Cala Resort promotion in Germany
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a Cala Resort has hosted a group of the leading travel operators in Germany. The group was comprised of winners of a series of golf competitions held in the five German cities of Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Munich and Frankfurt. The competitions were aimed at influential figures in the German tourism industry and over 500 travel agencies and tour operators participated. The final was held in the Costa del Sol last October when the winners were invited to Spain by Turismo Andaluz. The visit also included visits to popular tourist destinations in Mijas, Jerez and Málaga and concluded with a gala dinner in La Cala Resort. This German golf circuit has been held for the last six years but this was the first time the final was played in Andalucía. It is organised by one of the leading travel trade magazines in the country, Touristik Aktuell. Its owner, Horst Ebel, says: “Everyone has been delighted with the trip and it gives them a chance to meet and talk with their colleagues from other parts of the country. It also offers locations, such as La Cala Resort, the opportunity to market themselves to some of the key decision makers in the important German market.”
Night-time entertainment for the German Tour operators.
La Cala’s Director of Marketing, José Navas, says it is a very important promotional opportunity for the resort. “These are some of the key decision makers and reference points in the German tourism industry. It would be very difficult and time consuming for us to try and make personal contact with each of them on an individual basis. This circuit offers us the chance to showcase the attractions of Spain’s largest golf resort and the Mijas region to individuals and companies who may or may not be aware of our presence.” La Cala Sales executive, Rocío Álvarez, third from left, at the Frankfurt competition. La Cala’s Executive Chef, David H Del Amo, was flown in especially to the competitions to showcase Spanish dishes.
Spring - Summer 2009
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LA CALA NEWS
Hotel, Golf & Dinner Offer 3 Nights Accommodation + 2 Green Fees pp during the stay + 1 Dinner pp at La Terraza Restaurant
€285
5 Nights Accommodation + 3 Green Fees pp during the stay + 1 Dinner pp at La Terraza Restaurant
€455
7 Nights Accommodation + 4 Green Fees pp during the stay + 2 Dinners pp at La Terraza Restaurant
€625
• Rates are per person sharing a double room with terrace • Rates include room, buffet breakfast & golf (excl. 7% VAT) • Rates & tee times are subject to availability
• 3 Courses: Campo America, Campo Asia & Campo Europa • Free shared buggy for the following periods: 24/05/09 - 30/09/09 | 01/12/09 - 31/12/09 • These offers are valid until December 31st, 2009
David Leadbetter Golf Academy & Hotel Packages 3 Nights B&B and 2 days Mini School
from
€473
4 Nights B&B and 3 days Mini School
from
€644
5 Nights B&B and 4 days Mini School
from
€791
5 Nights B&B and 4 days Beginner to Winner
from
€679
• Rates are per person sharing a double room with terrace • Rates include room, buffet breakfast & golf lessons (excl. 7% VAT) • Rates & David Leadbetter Golf Academy are subject to availability
• Includes free clubfitting in the TaylorMade Performance Lab. Normal price €100 • These offers are valid until December 31st , 2009
BOOK NOW AND GET A SPECIAL
10% EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT Save 10% of your selected rate when booking 90 days in advance.
Our Reservations Call Centre is Open 7 days a Week from 8:00 to 20:00
Tel: 952 669 016 • Fax: 952 669 013 •
hotel@lacala.com
Don’t forget, you can also book online at
www.lacala.com 24
Spring - Summer 2009
LA CALA NEWS
Free Golf Offer
1 Night B&B sharing a standard double room + 1 Green Fee or 1 Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience at Caracala Spa
Family Hotel Package
Limited number of rooms. Subject to availability. Per Person Sharing.
€99 PPS + VAT
Valid to: 31/12/2009
• Two connecting double rooms for the price of one. • 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 & 2 Thermal Circuit Spa Experiences to be used during the stay.
Valid from April 3rd to 26th & June 28th to August 29th 2009
For reservations call (+34) 952 669 016/ 033 • hotel@lacala.com Don’t forget, you can also book online at
www.lacala.com Spring - Summer 2009
25
LA CALA NEWS
La Cala & You
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he La Cala & You affinity scheme goes from strength to strength. Over 100 players took part in the St. Valentine’s Open, held last February. Played on Campo America, the
competition is one of a series held every year for members of the resort’s affinity programme. The general reaction of the competitors to the scheme has been extremely positive, not only to the competition formats 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 1,000 members of the La Cala & You scheme that was launched in May, 2007. In total, 22 countries are represented. The scheme offers a range of discounts on the resort’s facilities, including green fee offers, vouchers for complimentary buggies, special competitions and Caracala Spa. For more information e-mail: you@lacala.com or visit www.lacala.com.
First Gran Premio de Mijas
Andalucía Day
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he First Gran Premio de Mijas golf competition held at the resort over the December bank holiday weekend was very successful with over 80 players taking part and it is now hoped that the event will become an annual fixture. The 36-hole competition was organised by Chaparracing with the support of Mijas Town Hall and a large number of commercial sponsors. It was played on Campo Europa and Campo America and also included a practice day. La Cala member, Paul Massey (10), used his local knowledge to record the best overall score with 74 points over the two days, following his opening 42 with a solid 32 to win by two points. High-handicapper Francisco Valencia Espejo returned the second best overall card with 72 points, while another category three player, José Antonio Bueno Moya, playing off 24, recorded 71. The best scratch result on the Saturday was recorded by Gabriel Dandanell (3) with 36 while the best scratch score returned on Sunday was by Jessica Wilcox (scratch), with 30 points.
Paul Massey and Mijas Sports Councillor Francisco Marín.
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Spring - Summer 2009
ixty six players competed in the annual Andalucía Day competition on February 28th. The day was a huge success and after the round on Campo Europa the players were treated to a special range of Andalusian tapas. There was a big effort made to speed up the play with information notices positioned in each buggy advising the players of the normal length of time required to complete each section of the course. This resulted in faster rounds than in previous competitions. The best score (both gross and nett) was recorded by 4-handicapper Nick Whiting with 39 points (35 points gross) in the junior category.
Nick Whiting with Gabriel De la Rosa and Ana Nyblom of La Cala Resort.
d Open color.pdf
17/03/2009
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LA CALA NEWS
From 23rd to 28th November, 2009 FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Tel: (+34) 952 669 033 Fax: (+34) 952 669 034
Adrian Murphy: “I can’t wait until next year.”
e-mail golf@lacala.com www.lacala.com Lesley Kitching:
“It’s my first time here and it’s wonderful.” Jeff Rawlins: “Excellent, great value for money.” Harri Huovila: “It’s a fantastic event.”
Mark Holland: “Beautiful surroundings, superb weather and organisation.”
La Cala is the largest golf resort in Spain with three 18-hole courses, a six hole par 3 ‘executive’ and the only David Leadbetter Golf Academy in the country. Now you have the chance to play all three courses in a spectacular annual tournament, enjoying the superb winter weather of the Costa del Sol.
will have the opportunity to meet all the other participants and the resort’s management. The prize-giving will take place on Friday night during the gala dinner.
From November 23rd to November 28th 2009, La Cala Resort invites you to enjoy the V La Cala GolfWorld Open.
The format is stableford and the competition open to anybody with an official handicap. The overall winner will be the player with the best score over the three rounds. There are three categories with prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each category, as well as daily prizes.
The tournament is comprised of three days of competition. It begins with the tournament presentation and a welcome cocktail on Monday 23rd, where you
Non-golfing companions won’t miss out either as there is a wide-range of other activities planned such as day trips and spa treatments.
FULL PROGRAMME PACKAGES: Hotel - Golf - Spa Price for Golfer: €625 + 7% VAT • 5 nights in shared double room with daily breakfast buffet. • 4 days of golf, shared buggy and, on competition days, picnic bag. • Welcome cocktail. • 4 Days Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience in Caracala Spa. • Lunch Buffet (including beverages). • Andalusian-style lunch (including beverages). • Gala Dinner with prize-giving ceremony (including beverages). Individual use supplement: €165 + 7% VAT
Price for Companion €395 + 7% VAT • 5 nights in shared double room with daily breakfast buffet. • Welcome cocktail. • 3 Days Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience in Caracala Spa. • 1 Swedish Massage in Caracala Spa. • Visit to Málaga. • Lunch Buffet (including beverages). • Andalusian-style lunch (including beverages). • Gala Dinner with prize-giving ceremony (including beverages).
Golf Only
Companion
Price for Golfer: €295 + 7% VAT includes:
Price for Companion: €195 + 7% VAT includes:
Welcome cocktail. 4 days of golf including shared buggy, picnic bag (Competition days) 1 Day Thermal Circuit/Spa Experience at Caracala Spa. Lunch Buffet (including beverages). Andalusian-style lunch (including beverages). Gala Dinner with prize-giving ceremony (including beverages).
Welcome cocktail. 3 Days Thermal Circuit & 1 Swedish Massage in Caracala Spa. Visit to Málaga. Buffet Lunch (including beverages). Andalusian-style lunch (including beverages). Gala Dinner with prize-giving ceremony (including beverages).
Limited number of spaces available
Spring - Summer 2009
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Resales 2 BEDROOM GARDEN APARTMENT WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS OVERLOOKING CAMPO AMERICA
• Marble floors throughout • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Fully fitted kitchen incl. electrical appliances • Electric shutters in bedrooms & living room
Sales Price:
€320,000
Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Pool:
157 m2 incl. terraces 2 2 (1 en suite) Communal pool and landscaped gardens
• Alarm system fitted • Built-in wardrobes • Video entry phone
• Private garage and storeroom • Gated community • Furniture included
2 & 3 BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES IN LAS TERRAZAS DEL GOLF
• • • •
Marble floors throughout except kitchen Hot/Cold air-conditioning Fully fitted kitchen Open working fireplace
• • • •
Sales Price:
From €290,000 – €299,000
Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Plot:
182 m2 & 197 m2 incl. terraces 2&3 2&3 Communal pool and private garden
Built-in wardrobes Alarm system pre-installed Shutters in main rooms Video entry phone
• East-West facing • Views to golf course and mountains • Gated community & private car port • Walking distance to clubhouse
VERY PRIVATE 4-BEDROOM VILLA IN FIRST-LINE GOLF
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Pool: Plot:
€999,000 305 m2 incl. terraces 4 3 (1 en suite) Private pool and landscaped, floodlit garden 1001 m2
• Marble floors & underfloor heating throughout • Two tiled elevated sun decks with spectacular • Hot/Cold air-conditioning & working open fireplace golf & mountain views • Fully fitted kitchen incl. electrical appliances & luxury • Frontline golf & walking distance to the Falcon electric range cooker Clubhouse • All doors and built-in wardrobes made of cherry wood • Private pool & landscaped, floodlit garden
• TV points and satellite system • Full sprinkler system • Top quality double glazing throughout • Electric gate to double carport • Security gate entry system wired for alarm
Tel.: (+34) 952 669 027 • property@lacala.com • www.lacala.com
Resales ATTRACTIVE DUPLEX-PENTHOUSE WITH STUNNING VIEWS
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Pool: • Marble floors throughout except kitchen • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Fully fitted kitchen • Electric shutters in main room
• • • •
€ 399,000 Build Approx 188 m2 incl. terraces 3 3 Communal pool and landscaped garden
Pre-installation for alarm system Built-in wardrobes Video entry phone Private garage and storeroom
• • • •
East-West facing Views to golf course, sea and mountains Gated community Communal pool and landscaped gardens
CHARMING FIRST-LINE GOLF 3-BEDROOM DETACHED VILLA
Sales Price: Build Approx: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Plot:
€575,000 228 m incl. terraces 2
3 2
711 m2
• Gres floors throughout • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Shutters in bedrooms • Open fireplace • Built-in wardrobes • Jacuzzi bath in master bathroom
• Private car port & private storeroom • Solarium • East-West orientation • Views to golf course and mountains • Private pool and garden • Located at the end of a cul-de-sac
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 incl. electrical appliances • Electric shutters in main rooms • Open fireplace
• Built-in wardrobes • Alarm system fitted • Video entry phone • Private garage for 3 cars
€899,000 456 m2 incl. terraces & 108 m2 private garden
4 4 (2 en suite) 337 m2
• Community pool, private pool & garden • South-West facing • Views to golf courses and mountains • Gated community • Walking distance to the clubhouse
Tel.: (+34) 952 669 027 • property@lacala.com • www.lacala.com
LA CALA LA CALA NEWS NEWS
New Captains of Golf Club are both Property Owners in the Resort
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he current captains of La Cala’s golf club, Mike Fisher and Vivien Shute, are both property owners in the complex who fell in love with La Cala Resort when visiting for a holiday and have never regretted their decision to purchase. Mike and his wife, Pearl, moved to Spain from Solihull in England. They bought a property in the resort in 2004 after he retired as Chief Executive of a manufacturing company. Mike and Pearl have owned a villa in Ibiza for 20 years but found the winters there too damp and elected to retire to the Costa del Sol for its year-round climate. Mike says he hasn’t regretted his move in any way. “My brother-in-law has a property in La Cala and we came on a visit during Christmas, 2003. I immediately fell in love with the resort and put down a deposit on an apartment during that trip. We both started playing golf after moving to La Cala and now play three times a week. It has great views and fantastic golfing facilities and we have never, ever, regretted our decision.” Vivien Shute divides her time between Spain and Hampshire. Together with husband Philip, she built a property in the resort in 2005 after
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Spring - Summer 2009
his retirement from the oil industry. Philip and Vivien are members at the Brockenhurst Manor club and normally spend the summer at their home in Milford on Sea in Hampshire. Their introduction to La Cala happened by accident when a golf holiday they had booked in 1999 in another golf resort in Spain had to be changed and the agent recommended La Cala Resort. “We fell in love with La Cala and came back the next year and bought a plot. Our friends have a house in the resort and they also love it,” says Vivien. Although Vivien and Philip spend the summers in the U.K., she accepts that due to the responsibilities of being lady captain, she will not be able to visit for long this year. However, both sons are keen golfers and will be visiting La Cala. She has no regrets about dividing her time between the two countries. “We absolutely love it here, we are in seventh heaven. We play golf at least three times a week and have found that being a member of such an active club as La Cala, it’s easy to make friends. However, we also like going back to Britain. I am a keen quilter and a member of the New Forest Quilters and I also help out in the Citizens’ Advice Bureau. I think we have the best of both worlds.”
LF HIP O G RS + E MBUDED E M CL RS A N E I 3 Y REE ED F T IMI F L UN GOL
Bedrooms
2
Real Altavista Golf
Two-bedroom Ground Floor Apartment
€298,000 VAT not included
Bathrooms
• Marble floors throughout • Hot/Cold air-conditioning • Fully fitted kitchen incl.electrical appliances • Electric shutters in bedrooms & living room • Alarm system fitted
2
M 2 built
114
• Built-in wardrobes • Underfloor heating and jacuzzi in main bathroom • Video porter entry system • Private garage and storeroom
M 2 terraces
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M 2 garden
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• New build, never occupied, all guarantees • Views to golf course, sea and mountains • Gated community • Communal pool and gardens • Three 18-hole golf courses
Fantastic Golf and Countryside Plots available from VAT not included €200,000 within La Cala Resort
Tel.: (+34) 952 669 027 • property@lacala.com • www.lacala.com
LA CALA NEWS
Over €10,000 raised for Cudeca
L to R: Lady Captain, Vivien Shute, Francisco Cervilla and Men’s Captain, Mike Fisher.
T
he 15th annual Cudeca Cup fundraising golf competition held at the resort in November, raised €10,500 for the cancer care organisation. Cudeca provides palliative
home care, free of charge, to patients suffering from terminal cancer and to their families. It has also opened a hospice in Benalmadena and the funds will go towards the day-to-day running costs of the hospice and the organisation, which receives no state funding. Cudeca is in urgent need of funds to maintain its inpatients’ department. The President and founder of Cudeca, Joan Hunt O.B.E., expressed her gratitude to all the people who supported the competition and pointed out that well over €110,000 had been raised by the La Cala competitions since the event began in 1994. “This event is a lifeline for us as we have no regular income. It was a wonderful day with great, sunny weather, fine golf and a super lunch.” The stableford competition was held on Campo Europa and the event was organised by Cudeca volunteer and La Cala member Joan Stock. The overall winner was La Cala Resort member, Francisco Cervilla with a magnificent 42 points.
San Miguel Trophy
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The winners Enrique Hermana Salcedo & Miguel González Gimenez with La Cala Director of Leisure, José Navas, and Rocío from sponsors, San Miguel.
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he 10th San Miguel Trophy was held at the resort on New Year’s Eve. This open fourball is one of the most popular competitions of the year with over 100 players taking part in the stableford event, held on Campo America. Two pairings returned 42
points with the winners being decided on joint handicap. The regional marketing manager for San Miguel, Miguel de Hoyos, said the competition presents a unique opportunity for the company: “We have been involved in the promotion of golf for a number of years. It is a sport that shares common values with our company and our brand: the drive to improve day-by-day, great enthusiasm and the search for perfection. In addition, staging the event at La Cala Resort brings added value as it is one of the finest resorts on the Costa del Sol. The close relationship between San Miguel and Andalucía is not accidental. One of our production centres is in Málaga city. We feel particularly linked to the city and its environs and are therefore pleased to be able to contribute to the cultural and sporting development of the area.” After the completion of the competition there was a cocktail and tapas in Los Olivos before the revellers left to prepare for the New Year celebrations. The competition was won by Enrique Hermana Salcedo (7) and Miguel González Gimenez (14) with 42 points.
LA CALA NEWS
Norwegian Church raises €8,000
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he Norwegian Seaman’s Church in Calahonda has raised €8,000 through a fundraising golf competition at the resort in early February. The money will be used to fund a number of church projects including the provision of a new bell. Over 100 golfers entered the competition, played on Campo America. Steinar Lindvig is the Seaman’s Church pastor: “It was a very successful day and everything was perfect. We had many more players than last year and we raised a fantastic amount of money. Everybody is talking about how well La Cala organised the event and we also got great support from our sponsors, volunteers and of course, all the players. Everyone wants to come back again next year to La Cala.”
Norway to marry in Spain. Later in the same week, the resort hosted another large Scandinavian golf event when the Spanish-Nordic Association held a competition on Campo Europa. Fifty players took part in the Saxobank sponsored event. The association holds 60 golf competitions annually and has 700 members, 400 of whom play golf.
Seaman´s church category winners, Wencke Waage & Bjorn Enoksen with sponsor, Einar Asvig, far left.
The Norwegian seamen’s churches are an international network of social meeting places where Norwegians can come “home” for a while. Founded in 1864, the organisation was established to secure the moral and religious education of Scandinavian seafarers, but also to give them a “breathing space” where a fellow countryman was available to lend an ear and give some attention. Steinar Lindvig says the Calahonda Church had more than 50,000 guests last year and performed 85 weddings, most of the couples coming from
The Saxobank Spanish/Nordic Association prize-winners.
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Real Altavista Golf is an exclusive project of luxury apartments, located in a natural retreat with breathtaking views of our 3 golf courses.
Luxurious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses located in an exceptional position near the coast, only 25 minutes from Málaga International Airprt and within driving distance of Marbella and other towns of interest.
These impeccable apartments have been delightfully designed with the highest quality finishes to the smallest detail. They offer homes of quality and comfort located in a truly unique location.
The resort boasts three 18-hole golf courses and a par 3 course, making it the biggest golf resort in Spain. It has the country’s only David Leadbetter Golf Academy and Europe’s only TaylorMade Performance Lab.
Beautiful, landscaped gardens complete the complex together with large swimming pools and children’s pools. Each property has its own underground parking space and private storeroom. The community is gated and protected by 24-hour security.
A family golf membership for the three courses is included when you buy an apartment from the promoter.
The apartments offer spectacular views from their large terraces over the Golf Valley to the Mediterranean and the Mijas Mountains.
Residents enjoy great benefits and discounts on the resort’s facilities such as the luxurious Caracala Spa, the five-star Hotel La Cala, the 19th Hole in the clubhouse, tennis, squash, gymnasium, and other attractions. This represents an unequalled opportunity to enjoy outstanding attractions in Europe’s most favourable microclimate.
The La Cala Property Sales team is available 7 days a week to answer any inquiries you may have regarding the Real Altavista Golf 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 Elena Montes or Nicole Kniesel at the Property Sales Office next to the clubhouse. La Cala Resort. Apdo. de Correos 106, La Cala de Mijas. 29649 Mijas Costa. Málaga-Spain. property@lacala.com - www.lacala.com - Tel.: 34 952 669 027 - Fax 34 952 669 022
LA CALA NEWS
Leadbetter Academy Directors hold AGM at La Cala
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nternational Directors and Senior Management from IMG, the organisation that runs the David Leadbetter Golf Academies worldwide, held their annual meeting in the resort at the end of October. The two-day meeting was chaired by IMG Senior Vice-President, Michael Pask who incidentally has a long association with La Cala, having first used the resort in 1995 as a base to practise his own golf game before turning to the administration side of the business. The meeting was attended by 13 directors from Europe and the U.S.. Michael says that IMG is very proud of the Leadbetter academy in La Cala and they use it as an example of the high levels of instruction and customer experience that characterise the organisation as a whole. The Academy Director at Bad Tatzmansdorf in Austria is Richard Senninger: “I saw many, many things here at La Cala that we can try to emulate in Austria. The system here of producing and updating player profiles is one of these innovations that interests me. It is very interesting for directors to compare notes and see how other academies deal with their clients.” Michael Pask adds: “We take all the best practices we have around the world and implement them in business and training. Our instructors undergo constant evaluation and recertification. At these annual meetings, the directors can update how they are doing and exchange ideas
on the upholding of quality in instructional matters and more general business ideas.” La Cala is the location of the only David Leadbetter Golf Academy in Spain, an executive 6 hole, par 3 course, a driving range and putting and chipping greens. The academy includes some of the most advanced training systems available, including Europe’s only TaylorMade Performance Lab, featuring 3D Motion Analysis.
Management and academy directors with La Cala Resort Golf Director, Alan Saunders, far left and Michael Pask second from left.
Royal Golf Federation of Andalucía holds AGM in the resort
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or the first time in its history, the Royal Golf Federation of Andalusia has held its AGM in our resort. In addition to the honour of holding the annual meeting of the controlling body of golf in the region, La Cala also staged the annual competition for the staff who work in golf courses throughout Andalucía. During the visit, the Federation President, Ángel de la Riva Gómez, was presented with a copy of the 2009 Guinness World Records by the Managing Director of La Cala Resort, Denis Foley. In 2007 the resort set a Guinness World Record for the largest number of golfers to play in a single competition in the same venue. In total 614 players competed and it raised €18,000 for UNICEF. Only a small percentage of records feature in the Guinness World Records book. Each year the publishers
receive approximately 65,000 enquiries from around the world from people who want to set or break records. However, they only publish around 4,000 records in the book annually.
Federation President Ángel de la Riva Gómez, the Managing Director of La Cala Resort, Denis Foley and José Navas, the Director de Leisure at the complex.
International Golf Federations
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he general secretaries of the golf federations of Britain, Ireland and the Nordic countries held a weekend series of meetings at the resort last winter to discuss areas of mutual interest and joint co-operation. This was the first time such a meeting has been held at La Cala and the delegates expressed their satisfaction with the organisation of the event and the range of facilities on offer.
The group of general secretaries in Hotel La Cala.
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LA CALA NEWS
2008 Captains’ Day
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Peter Penney and Carol Rees
a Cala Resort’s golf club, one of the most active on the coast, had its joint 2008 captains’ day in October with a large turnout contesting two of the most valued trophies
of the year. The stableford competition took place on Campo Europa and conditions were difficult for scoring with a strengthening breeze. In spite of some tough pin positions, 41 points took the men’s title with 38 points being needed to capture the ladies crown. Peter Penney won the men’s section by just a point from the lady captain’s other half, Campbell, while one of the ladies most consistent performers, Carol Rees, won the ladies section.
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ll the players enjoyed mid-round snacks, courtesy of the 2008 captains, Brian Gray and Sylvia McGarvie who situated themselves on the par-3 tenth, which also employed the special “Captains’ Tee” for the occasion. The dinner and prize-giving were followed by an enjoyable night of dancing in the clubhouse. Results: Men 41 points 1st Peter Penney 2nd Campbell McGarvie 40 points 3rd Paul Massey 38 points Ladies 1st Carol Rees 38 points 2nd Vivienne Youngs 38 points 3rd Ursula Wetzel 37 points Guest Junior
Linda Cognet Jess Wilcox
Property Owner gets MBE
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ne of La Cala’s property owners has been honoured in the U.K. with an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire). Gary Lumby, who has a townhouse in the Terrazas del Golf development, got the honour in recognition of his services to the finance industry. He was presented with the MBE by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace. Born and educated in Hartlepool, Mr Lumby is head of retail and small business
banking for Yorkshire Bank in Leeds. He said: “I am delighted, very honoured as well as very surprised. It has been a pleasure working in financial services and helping business across the country in different ways over many years.” Gary has been part of a wide variety of industry fora, including Leeds City Skills Board, Yorkshire, Humber and East Midlands Industrial Development Board and Leeds Chamber of Commerce where he has served as both director and Vice President. He is also a trustee of Leeds Sports Trust. Gary and his wife, Hayley, bought their property in La Cala in 2005 and spend about five weeks a year there in addition to a number of long weekends. They are both keen golfers and say they are delighted with their decision to buy in the resort. “We chose La Cala because of the whole environment, the stunning scenery and the facilities, particularly the golf, tennis, gymnasium and the driving range; all of which are excellent,” says Hayley.
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LA CALA NEWS
Warren Jacklin brings group of golfers to La Cala Resort
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arren Jacklin, son of Tony Jacklin - one of the most famous English golfers of all time, brought a group of German visitors on a week-long golfing trip to the resort in November. Warren is the club pro at Baden Golf & Country Club near Heidelberg and he normally takes groups of members on away trips twice a year. This was the first time he had visited La Cala and he was impressed with the resort. “La Cala is ideal for trips with professionals. It was snowing when we left Germany and here the sun is shining and the sky is blue. The infrastructure in the complex is brilliant as everything is on-site. The hotel is fine. My group members can be demanding and they are all very happy with the hotel and the golf facilities. I also liked the three courses. They are challenging but not overly difficult for high handicappers. I definitely plan to return and would recommend it to other club professionals.”
Warren’s dad Tony won two majors. In 1969, he became the first British player to win The Open Championship for 18 years. The following season he won the U.S. Open. It was the first victory by a British player in that tournament since 1920 and remains the only one by any European in the post-World War II era.
The German group with Warren Jacklin, fourth from right.
As the non-playing captain of Europe in four consecutive Ryder Cups from 1983 to 1989, he had a 2.5 1.5 winning record, captaining his men to their first victory for 28 years in 1985, and to their first ever victory in the United States in 1987.
Dutch Medical Specialists take a Training Break
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group of 35 Ear, Nose and Throat specialists from Holland spend five days in the resort in September. The doctors combined training seminars, which they have to attend under Dutch regulations, with a golfing break. Dutch law obliges the specialists to familiarise themselves with latest advances and the SNK training company combines these classes with leisure breaks. The La Cala visit featured golf but other breaks have incorporated skiing and safari trips. The visit was arranged by 3D Golf Vakanties and organiser Bert Trommelen says La Cala meets all their requirements: “The great thing about La Cala is there are three golf courses within a few minutes walk of the hotel and we
don’t have to bother about arranging transport from the seminars to the courses. It’s great that we don’t have to rush around and can have a more relaxing time. The social side of the trip is very important and La Cala is ideal for this as everyone is in the same location. The doctors and medical suppliers can have time to mingle in a relaxing environment; something they don’t get a chance to do in Holland. Everyone is very happy with the decision to come to the resort.”
SNK Group
Conferences
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or those in search of the perfect combination of business and pleasure, La Cala Resort’s spectacular location serves as the ideal setting for corporate meetings, conferences, and events offering a range of conference rooms with capacity for up to 226 people. We have different meeting facilities to cater for different needs, equipped with the most modern technologies at your disposal for conferences, private meetings, dinners or exhibitions. You can also avail of the beautiful area surrounding both the pool and our exclusive La Terraza Restaurant. Our personnel in the Groups & Events Department will be delighted to provide you with all the material and audio-visual equipment
that you may require for your meeting. They can also organise extra group activities, such as golf competitions (for all levels), team-building excursions around the area, bus transfers, car rental, secretarial services etc... La Cala Resort has been the choice for business meetings and conferences for a large number of major international companies. For more information, call our Groups Co-ordinator, Rocío Freire on 952 669 025 or e-mail: comercial@ lacala.com.
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The Costa del Sol’s finest indoor/outdoor spa facility • Spa Experience/Thermal Circuit • 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
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.
Designed by Wheway Lifestyle
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aracala Spa was designed by one of the most prestigious spa consultancy firms in the world, Wheway Lifestyle International (WLI). They point out that one of the features is an indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool and they are not aware of any other spa with such a service. They add that it offers fantastic views of the resort and this level of luxury is unique on the Costa del Sol. Tanya Wheway says: “There are very few spas with such an extensive range of facilities and face and body treatments. The focus of the spa is on the individual and we aim to achieve specific results with the client.” “The Couple Suite is also very uncommon. Friends, partners, mothers and daughters, etc. can share top-to-toe treatments in total privacy. Relaxation areas are becoming more and more important. The Thermal Suite is a heated relaxation area with a cooler relaxation zone beside it. The sun decks also offer a luxurious location to take in the fantastic views of the resort. Furthermore, with the addition of an indoor exercise pool, the resort has three swimming pools,” comments Tanya Wheway.
Caracala Spa has a full range of treatment packages to awaken your senses and to relax you totally using top brands, such as Ytsara and Decleor. Additionally, you can avail of a fantastic massage from as little as €35.
Gift Vouchers
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visit to Caracala Spa is a wonderful gift to give someone special; they make great treats for occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, Christmas or Valentine’s Day or for just saying a heartfelt “thank you”. Caracala Spa offers the choice of vouchers where the recipient can select therapies or services of their choice or can treat himself or herself to a beautiful gift from the spa boutique. Alternatively, you may prefer to select from the innovative and delightful gift programmes listed under Packages. Gift Vouchers are available in our spa boutique, hotel reception or pro shop. All gift voucher programmes need to be prebooked. Vouchers can also be purchased online at www.lacala.com.
Information & Reservations,
Tel: 952 669 010 www.lacala.com - spa@lacala.com
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Spring - Summer 2009