Vienna AUSTRIA | The perfect host for the 2022 Ryder Cup in the heart of Europe

Vienna AUSTRIA The perfect host for The 2022 Ryder Cup in the heart of Europe

Austrian Pioneer Felix Baumgartner’s Red Bull Stratos Space Jump 2012

Vienna – best choice in europe Robert Green

Co-Founder/Consultant Editor of Golf International magazine and author of the book Seve: Golf’s Flawed Genius It would be fitting if Austria were to make golf history in 2022: it would be the first land-locked country to host the Ryder Cup. Of course, although true, that’s not what I had in mind. Among the many appealing aspects of the Austrian bid to hold the 44th staging of the sport’s most alluring team competition is its evangelical element, the specific spreading of the word beyond the host’s borders. The grand scheme envisages a significant expansion of the game in nine countries beyond Austria, some of which have hitherto been amid golf’s hinterlands. In alphabetical order, these are Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Hungary, Macedonia, Russia, Slovakia and Slovenia. The Ryder Cup in Vienna is unique in that it has been specifically developed in order to stimulate the growth of the game in a wider region.

Jay Nemeth/Red Bull Content Pool

In a geographical sense, Vienna is in the heart of Europe. Over 140 million people live within 400 miles of it, making travel comparatively easy for European fans. The venue, the Fontana Golf Club, an established destination on the European Tour, is about a half-hour’s drive from both the international airport and the centre of the city. The prospective venue could not be closer to one of the great cultural capitals of Europe. From spectacular architecture to the famous coffee shops, the city offers so much that…well, you might feel you have to drag yourself off to the golf.

From a logistical perspective, in what have long been uncertain financial times for many economies, it is manifestly reassuring that the Viennese bid has been backed by the passing of a cabinet resolution guaranteeing federal government funds to support the Ryder Cup. From the point of view of providing an enduring legacy, associated youth programmes will mean that children until 12 can play golf for free.

Austria has a breadth of experience in organising major international events – the Winter Olympics, the UEFA European Football Championships and, earlier this year, the Eurovision Song Contest! The 2022 Ryder Cup would be staged with care and confidence.

So, all that remains is for Bernd Wiesberger – the Austrian raised within last year to the Top 10 Golfers on the European Tour and Top 30 in the Official World Golf Ranking – to keep his game in shape for the next seven seasons (he’ll only be 36 then) and perhaps to have inspired more of his fellow countrymen to become winners on the European Tour.

Content 06

all together now Supporting Austria as Host Candidate of The 2022 Ryder Cup

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Welcome to Vienna!

The Heart of Europe

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VIENNA, YOU AND YOU ALONE A personal view from an ex-pat living in Vienna

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Ladies Welcome!

Vienna offers a variety of shopping, wellness & beauty treatments

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Lower Austria, encircling Vienna

Austria’s largest province is a region of diversity and contrasts

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City trips: Short Distances, lasting memories

Ideal starting point for a wide range of exciting day trips

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World ChampionS in Hospitality A long tradition of hospitality makes Austrians perfect hosts

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Fantastic Fontana awaits you Fontana GC is ranked among the best courses in Europe

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Building bridges in the heart of Europe We integrate ten neighbour countries into The 2022 Ryder Cup

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Golf in Austria

Picturesque courses gives you more than 170 reasons to golf

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thumbs up for austria Stage for international golf tournaments for decades

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Hello Juniors – Youth Golf Program

Building the future of golf

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22 reasons Why Austria should host The 2022 Ryder Cup

Austria, the perfect host in the heart of Europe!

Christoph Payer (ExtraGolf & Reisen), Klaus Nadizar (Golfrevue), Thomas Weidinger (Perfect Eagle) & Sascha Zelenka (Golf Week)

The Ryder Cup brings people together, and that is certainly true of this unique collaboration between Austria’s four renowned golf magazines. Their entire teams right up to the editors in chief have come together to create this magazine on Austria’s bid to host The 2022 Ryder Cup. The Austrian Golf Association submitted its bid in spring 2015 in the conviction that together we can write golf history. Any initial scepticism as to whether the world’s most prestigious golfing event could be held in a country that is still relatively uncharted waters on the international golf map has been dispelled. By now the whole nation, including its politicians and economic players, is right behind the project. Thanks to the strength of the arguments presented in its bid, Austria has gone from underdog to the hot tip to host The 2022 Ryder Cup. Over the following pages you too can discover the advantages of Austria’s bid for this prestigious tournament!!

The world-famous city of Vienna and the renowned Fontana Golf Club, a proven European Tour course just outside the capital, have everything that the Ryder Cup could want. Visitors and organisers will be thrilled by the short distances between the airport, city and golf course, as well as the perfect existing infrastructure and transport options.

The leisure options are also world-class. Vienna and its surroundings offer numerous excellent golf courses and recreational options to suit every taste, from cultural highlights and sightseeing to shopping (and not just for the ladies).

Of course visitors can combine their journey to Vienna for the Ryder Cup with a short trip to other vibrant cities such as Prague, Bratislava or Munich in the spirit of the slogan of Austria’s The 2022 Ryder Cup bid: “Golf in the Heart of Europe!”. We are also proud of the fact that nine Eastern European Countries, from the Czech Republic to Russia, are designated “Partner Nations” of the Austrian Ryder Cup bid. In a single stroke, the golfing wilderness in Central and Eastern Europe will become a thing of the past when Austria is awarded The 2022 Ryder Cup.

all together now Thomas Pisan | Golf Week

It’s rare to find wholehearted unity in Austria. But as far as the Ryder Cup is concerned, everyone agrees: this major event in the golfing calendar is a way of building bridges between Austria, the European countries and the USA.

Olympic gold medal winners Franz Klammer and Stefan Eberharter, are also behind the project, as is the former Austrian Head Coach; Swedish golfer Anders Forsband, who was vicecaptain in 2004 when the Europeans defeated the Americans.

The bid to stage the Ryder Cup is enjoying the massive support of the population of Austria at large. The whole country is behind this unique opportunity for Austria to host one of the world’s largest sporting events. Since the decision was taken to bid for the event, no opportunity has been lost in becoming actively involved in the support machinery.

Furthermore, all the 156 golf clubs in Austria unanimously decided at their general meeting to actively support the bid and took part in the AUSTRIA2022 Supporter Tour tournament: almost 190 tournaments have taken place since May 2015, during which several thousand golfers have signalled their personal support by taking part.

The decision by the Council of Ministers at the end of April 2015 signalled the Austrian government’s willingness to set aside funds to secure the financing of the project. Various government representatives and ministers have also promised their support to representatives of the golf association. The association has received letters of support from the heads of the major city of Vienna and the provincial government of Lower Austria, as well as from the mayor of the municipality of Oberwaltersdorf – the home of the host golf club, Fontana GC.

This is indicative of the massive commitment on the part of the domestic golf scene. As golf and business enjoy a close symbiosis in Austria, a number of well-known companies and Austrian world brands have welcomed the Ryder Cup bid and written letters of support.

The Austrian Sports Association and the Austrian Olympic Committee have also promised to support the Ryder Cup bid and have signed declarations to this effect along with the PGA of Austria which is important for joint cooperation of the future development of the game.

Former sports stars, such as the former world tennis number one and French Open winner Thomas Muster and the downhill

Austrian media outlets have fully embraced the bidding concept and did not have to be asked twice to support the cause. All the relevant golf media are working closely with the association on promotional projects, such as this magazine, and, just like the rest of the country, want to leave everyone in no doubt that this huge 2022 sporting event could not find a more fitting venue than the Fontana GC and Vienna. ///

Photos: Austrian Golf Association, Gepa pictures, Wolfgang Hueber, Roland Rudolh, pro.media, Valery Vorobye, provided

AUSTRIA Welcome to the heart of Europe!

221miles

G E R M A N Y Munich 240 miles

Salzburg

Basel Bregenz Zurich

263 miles

Innsbruck

S W I T Z E R L A N D 270 miles

Bolzano

I T A L Y

10 miles

50 miles

100 miles

Udine

Venice

photos: Mauritius Images, Oesterreich Werbung/Peter Burgstaller & Popp Hackner & Bartl & Volker Preussner, Tirol Werbung, foto-dpi.com, David Iliff, Shutterstock, TV Linz/Roebl, Kaernten Werbung,/Franz Gerdl, 123rf, croatia.hr/Marko Vrdoljak, Corbis

P O L A N D

Prague

C Z E C H

R E P U B L I C

157 miles

Brno

69 miles

S L O V A K I A Linz St. Pรถlten

34 miles

Bratislava

Vienna

157 miles

133 miles 22 miles

Fontana GC Eisenstadt Sopron

A U S T R I A Budapest

173 miles

Graz IS

H U N G A R Y

167 miles

Villach

Klagenfurt

Partner nations

find more Information in this magazine, FIN pages 64-69

NOR EST SE DK

IRL

Ljubljana

LT UK

BY

NL

S L O V E N I A

BE

Zagreb

PL D

LU FR

SK AT

CH IT

ES

UA

CZ

SI

C R O A T IPT A

RU

LV

MD

HU RO

HR BIH

SRB BG

ME AL

MK GR

TR

Schönbrunn Palace Sorry, you aren’t allowed to play golf at Empress Sisi’s former summer residence, but you can visit an enchanting park, the Palm House, the Gloriette and a zoo at this touristic highlight.

Vienna ///

The perfect host This beautiful city is ready to put on an international celebration of golf for all visitors to The 2022 Ryder Cup.

Welcome to Vienna, the Heart of Europe!

Thomas Weidinger | Perfect Eagle

Welcome to a city with a very high quality of life, a feature that is highly appreciated by the many visitors who come to the Austrian capital. Vienna is old, Vienna is new, and so varied: from magnificent Baroque buildings to “golden” art and from the quiet Giant Ferris Wheel to buzzing party venues.

photo: Mirjah Geh

Walk in the footsteps of the Habsburgs, visit the splendid Baroque Schönbrunn and Belvedere Palaces, or stroll along the magnificent Ring Boulevard and take a look at the heart of the former vast Habsburg empire, the Imperial Palace. Get a sense of the lustre and glory of the old empire by visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Spanish Riding School or the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater.

Welcome to the world’s music capital! More famous composers have lived here than in any other city – in Vienna, music is literally in the air. Waltzes and operettas have their home here, as do "made in Vienna" musicals, which have wowed international audiences. The city’s concert halls and stages offer the whole range from classical to progressive sounds with festivals the whole year round. Opera fans will have the chance to see international stars here and jazz

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lovers will find a pulsating jazz scene. Pop and rock gigs and concerts provide live music experiences almost every day of the year.

The Viennese coffee house is known around the globe for its unique charm. Traditional cafés offer an enticing variety of coffees and pastries, together with a range of international newspapers. Since 2011, the traditional Viennese coffee house culture has even been part of the UNESCO cultural heritage.

Did you know that Vienna is the only metropolis in the world that grows enough wine within its city limits to be worth mentioning? Some 700 hectares of vineyards shape Vienna’s cityscape and lifestyle, which is all the more reason to taste the wine in a traditional Viennese “Heuriger” (wine tavern). In the legendary inviting atmosphere, they primarily offer the Viennese and their guests entertainment, fine Viennese wines and the fitting culinary accompaniments.

And, last but not least, for guests who are younger at heart, Vienna is also an excellent place to dance and "chill" – after all, Vienna’s electronic music scene is world-renowned. The line-up there varies as much as it does at other party venues in the city.

The Gürtel establishments under the railway arches, like in Chelsea’s, B72 and Rhiz have been permanent fixtures on Vienna’s nightlife scene for years. A new party strip is developing in the Prater with Fluc and Pratersauna.

And if your interests revolve around golf, then you’ll find three attractive golf courses within the city boundaries: the most outstanding is the refined Wien-Freudenau GC, where you can play golf within the famous “Wiener Prater”. Horse races are frequently held right next to the golf course, which opened in 1949.

To sum up, Vienna is a very liveable and “smart” city as confirmed by the renowned Mercer Study and the Smart City Index of US climate strategist Boyd Cohen (3rd place in the current ranking). Of course, it’s not only the high quality of life that makes Vienna a popular travel destination The perfect infrastructure, forward-looking mobility and “smart” offerings for guests are also what make the city on the Danube so attractive.

See you in Vienna – in 2022 at the latest! ///

Perfect

Vienna knows how to celebrate. Just think of the Life Ball (pictured), the Opera Ball, the Eurovision Song Contest or the UEFA European Championship to get an idea of what the atmosphere will be like at the official Opening Ceremony of The 2022 Ryder Cup in front of the Vienna City Hall: an international celebration of golf, the like of which the Ryder Cup has never seen before.

Imagine the Opening and Closing Ceremony of The Ryder Cup 2022 in front of the Vienna City Hall. Impressive, as this Red Carpet-picture of the Life Ball Aids Charity shows.

photos: life ball/Juergen Hammerschmied, Wien Tourismus/Christian Stemper, Shutterstock

host

Vienna ///

Most liveable city The 2022 Ryder Cup will feel very comfortable, because Vienna was crowned the world’s most liveable city for the sixth year in a row!

You literally float in the sky on the Giant Ferris Wheel (left), which provides an incomparable view of the city and the Prater amusement park at your feet.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the symbol of Vienna (right) and a must for every visitor. Construction commenced in the 12th century. Today, it is one of the most important Gothic structures in Austria.

Short

distances The journey from Vienna International Airport to the centre of Vienna takes 25 minutes.

From the centre of Vienna, you can travel to the Fontana GC in 30 minutes.

The journey from Vienna International Airport to the Fontana GC takes 30 minutes.

The Ryder Cup 2022 would be an event of "short distances“!

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photo: Mirjah Geh

Spanish Riding School The famous Lipizzan ballet can be experienced live in the baroque ambience of the Imperial Palace. Admire riding skills of the highest order – from pirouettes to caprioles. And, as you can see, the Lipizzan horses enjoy watching golf!

Vienna ///

Perfect combination Imperial tradition meets young, modern culture. Even the famous Lipizzan dancing horses at the Spanish Riding School love watching golf.

Photos: iStock, MQ/Hertha Hurnaus, Wien Tourismus/Christian Stemper & Peter Rigaud

More than 100 museums exhibit art ranging from old masters to the young avant-garde.

From the Museum of Art History (above), which is considered one of the most eminent museums in the world, to the Leopold Museum (right) at the MuseumsQuartier with the most renowned Egon Schiele collection and major works by Gustav Klimt.

More than 51 percent of this city is green space! Vienna has been ranked the city with the highest quality of living in the world by the international consulting company Mercer for several years running.

Vienna ///

The best choice In addition to The 2022 Ryder Cup matches, Vienna has amazing sights to see and activities to try.

Vienna is the only metropolis in the world that grows enough wine within its city limits to be worth mentioning.

You can taste the Viennese wines in the Heurige� (wine taverns) and enjoy the view over Vienna from the wine gardens (right).

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Summer Night Concert at Schรถnbrunn The Vienna Philharmonic performs its annual open-air Summer Night Concert in the unique ambience of the gardens of Schรถnbrunn Palace. In 2015 some 100,000 visitors attended this cultural highlight in Vienna.

Vienna ///

The Sound of Music

photo: WPH/Richard Schuster

Not only are the hills alive with the Sound of Music, but most of our historical buildings are as well.

Imagine the electric atmosphere here during The 2022 Ryder Cup week against this amazing backdrop.

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Getting to Vienna Whether by plane, by train or by car, many paths lead to Vienna. Its central position in Europe makes it a hub offering optimal transport connections to the whole world.

Good to know about

VIENNA

Vienna has been named “the world’s best place to live” for seven years in a row! (2009–2015)

As a tourist in Vienna, you can experience the traditional coffee houses right alongside the city's contemporary music, art scene and nightlife.

Vienna is one of the most popular conference cities in the world. A total of 779 international conferences with over 250,000 participants were held in 2014.

With approximately 1.8 million inhabitants, Vienna is one of the largest cities in the EU and is located in the heart of Europe with an idyllic setting on the Danube.

Vienna is an important diplomatic centre and home to one of the four official seats of the United Nations.

Vienna is a safe and clean city with centuries of history, imperial architecture, museums, theatres and cultural festivals.

Vienna is the host city for numerous international organisations such as the UN, OPEC, OSCE and IAEA.

Vienna’s Ringstrasse is the most magnificent boulevard in the world. Nowhere else can so many prestigious buildings, palaces and parks be found in such density.

Vienna has an excellent infrastructure and its public transport system is one of the best in the world

Vienna offers a stunning combination of imperial and modern architecture.

Vienna is the place where three pan-European mainline rail routes intersect and a major Central European rail interchange.

With two major opera houses and the renowned Vienna Philharmonic, Vienna is Europe's music capital.

The ultra-modern Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Main Station) is an international transit hub used by around 150,000 people and 1,000 trains each day.

50 % of Vienna is “green” – the city boasts numerous parks, long bike paths (over 200 km), swimming and sailing opportunities.

Vienna International Airport offers non-stop flights to 160 worldwide destinations, 42 of which are in Eastern Europe.

Vienna ///

The time is right!

photo: Wien Tourismus/Christian Stemper

Vienna is the best choice and we can’t wait for our guests to experience a warm Viennese WELCOME at The 2022 Ryder Cup.

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A personal view from an ex-pat living in Vienna for the past 5 years

VIENNA, YOU AND YOU ALONE Jan-Christoph Poppe | Golf Revue

The capital of Austria boasts a rich heritage – and is a monument to European history. A journey through a city full of beauty and individuality.

Yet the city sometimes seems too small for some of its residents; they occasionally accuse it of being rather provincial. But this may be because they go to extraordinary lengths to avoid any sort of regular interaction with the city. They probably only hear about an opening night at the Burgtheater by reading about it in their newspapers, but will nevertheless have such a firm opinion about the performance that one could be forgiven for thinking that they followed every second of the drama from a seat in their box. In reality, they actually spent the evening with a few glasses of wine in the bistro round the corner. It’s no wonder, then, that they remain completely oblivious to the grandiose welcome that their homeland extends to its visitors from afar. Dragged on from his arrival on the slopes of the Viennese Woods, the guest emerges into a bustling cultural metropolis ready to make an impression on the 21st century. Vienna is a melting pot of people and influences from all points of the compass. A place where they intermingle and leave their mark. And leave their mark they do – what would suit the Europe of today better than to have a home in a city that is an international beacon of culture at a time of upheaval and uncertainty? And what symbolises the unifying power of the Ryder Cup for Europe more than this city?

Vienna has always been a special place, both in an historical and a social context. Perhaps that’s why its residents have such an ambivalent relationship with their city. One has to love Vienna, with all its alleyways and songs. Its charm, which harks back to the Imperial era, and it is not always just for tourism ends, it is instead thoroughly ingrained in the city’s tasteful unhurriedness. It follows that one must also like the Viennese, who like to be serious. And seriously morbid besides. This quotation is attributed to Helmut

Qualtinger, the venerated cabaret performer and even more idolized resident of Vienna: “The only type of satisfaction to be found in Vienna is death.” At least the Viennese have turned dealing with this eventuality with a degree of good humour into an art form.

The central cemetery in the east of the city is one of the largest in Europe, but far from being the scene of the dark deeds of a horror story, it is more a tourist attraction. This is where Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert are laid to rest. The contrast between the epochs is exemplified by the honorary graves dedicated to Mozart and Falco – musical brothers of the Zeitgeist, so to speak. And all this in an expansive setting that really does encourage leisurely strolls. It is this deadpan approach to what are generally undesirable circumstances that makes the Viennese what they are. The much-vaunted and still greatly respected “Schmäh” certainly earns its reputation as a witty joke containing a fair dollop of black humour. The stranger may feel he’s been put upon – but being the recipient of a good dose of “Schmäh” is nothing more than the verbal equivalent of a slap on the back. Crude, but charming.

No visitor to the city should fear the nature of such a beast. OK, the city may tease a little with its dark side, but its visual glories alone are reason enough for the superlatives heaped upon it. If one had to find a snappy bit of PR-speak to describe the Danube metropolis, then “Wellness for the eyes” would be first choice. It is the postcard-pretty images of the Hofburg, the City Hall and St Stephen’s Cathedral that make the city such a magnet for tourists. The Opera Ball and New Year’s Concert have supporters all over the globe, while the Burgtheater is one of the most important drama theatres on the planet. And may indeed be what epitomises the Viennese approach to life: no matter how wonderful the performance, someone will always have a grumble.

Vienna was the heart of Europe for a long time. A Europe of nation states was first conceived at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. For centuries it was an imperial metropolis, the centre of a monarchy and

vienna ///

A different point of view

nothing happening in Vienna can be counted on Ambling through a city the fingers of one hand. In full of beauty and character. addition we should mention the infrastructure, the ideal traffic connections via the motorways and Vienna International Airport. Vienna has for many years been seen as one of the cities offering the world’s best quality of living. The international Mercer Study again put the city at the top of its rankings for 2015, leaving such attractive places as Auckland, Zurich and Vancouver trailing in its wake. Vienna entertained 13.5 million guests from all over the world in 2014 – and more than a few decide, following their first visit, to come back again. Or simply to stay. Vienna reflects the Zeitgeist; it’s approachable, enjoyable and has something for every taste: from the loud nightlife that stretches from Mariahilf down to the Danube Canal in the city centre or the

a legendary site of beautiful art, but then faded into the backwaters of Europe during the cooler years following the Second World War. Which is why, even today, much about Vienna dates back to days long ago: guests can follow in the footsteps of the omnipresent Empress Sisi between the palaces of Belvedere and Schönbrunn in the city centre before coming back down to earth in the Imperial Crypt. They can amble aimlessly through the green Prater, enjoy stunning views over the whole city from the world-famous Giant Wheel, and then waltz alongside the beautiful Blue Danube. And the local residents, as well as visitors from much further afield, take immense pleasure in spending whole afternoons and evenings in one of the traditional locals in Nußdorf. There’s a celebratory mood in the air in the Heuriger along the Kahlenberg and the Cobenzl when the first wine of the year is enjoyed in the courtyards and the vineyards and the last, hot days of summer drift downstream on the Danube towards Bratislava and Budapest. This is when Vienna once again revels in its own special charm. With more than 600 hectares of vineyards within the urban area, it is no surprise that it has for centuries been one of the few international cities to produce its own wine. Culinary delights

“

Vienna may sometimes seem too small to the Viennese – but that’s only because it has so many superlatives to offer.

Superlatives that it loves to share with its guests from all over the world.

„

are consequently a big deal in Vienna. The global reputation of the Wiener Schnitzel may have pushed more than a few local delicacies to the margins, but every good restaurant will soon acquaint the resourceful guest with the unique specialities of Viennese cuisine – and let’s be honest and remember that the first Wiener Schnitzel was actually made in Milan.

Vienna boasts proudly of its historical achievements to its guests from all over the world, yet this is a trait that it shares with many other important cities. This is why Vienna has long been part of the modern era, and why it today represents a united Europe and looks upon its prominent position with growing pride: following the fall of the Iron Curtain, the Austrian capital has established itself as the centre of the continent, a driving force behind the “Heart of Europe”.

The cultural scene exudes tremendous energy. Inspired by youthful music, the Impulse Dance Festival, the Viennale or the Wiener Festwochen – the number of days in the year on which there’s

peaceful beaches of the Danube islands. With a rented bike and some hipster friends to the next best private viewing, just because the wine is free. Or in a carriage to the clip-clop rhythm of the hooves back to imperial times, with a gala dinner followed by a visit to the opera, all included of course. Vienna is tempting at whatever time of year. And the Viennese certainly appreciate that. They feel honoured that the world loves their city so much. But they usually express this feeling in, let us say, a rather convoluted way. The fact that they have to share the love of their city with so many visitors is a way of coming to terms with the gentle abuse. Sometimes, according to the recently deceased cabaret artist Michael Mohapp, “the Viennese look only too anxious to leave the city, but no sooner have they reached Purkersdorf, then they’re on their way back again.”

Purkersdorf is no more than three kilometres from the city boundary.

Vienna may sometimes seem too small to the Viennese – but that’s only because it has so many superlatives to offer. Superlatives that it loves to share with its guests from all over the world. ///

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LADIES, WELCOME TO VIENNA! Nina Weidinger | Golf Week

It would be almost sinful only to explore the country’s golf greens when Vienna is so close and has so much to offer. International luxury labels have long had a love affair with Vienna and their flagship stores on the exclusive Kohlmarkt, Graben and Kärntner Strasse, right beside the leading traditional Viennese stores, are just waiting for you to explore them. The window displays in the new Golden Quarter will make any woman’s heart beat faster, while the jewellery from the famous Viennese jewellers Wagner, Bucherer and Schullin will make her eyes sparkle like never before. And if the Art Deco jewellery and designer pieces get your pulse racing, then head for the oldest auction house in the world at the Dorotheum.

With the new pedestrian zone on the Mariahilferstrasse, Vienna has gained another promenade for window-shopping – that’s where you’ll find not only the international fashion chains but also crowds of bright young things, trendy little boutiques and, last but not least, the Museums District, where you can spend an entire afternoon enjoying beautiful works of art (Leopold Museum & mumok), good food and relaxing in the sun on the colourful Enzi loungers. Anyone in search of a designer bargain should not confine themselves to the city outlet boutiques of Amicis and Chegini but also venture out on a little shopping excursion to the Parndorf designer outlet.

It only takes 30 minutes to get there on the shuttle bus from the city. An insider’s tip for energetic ladies is district hopping: discover Vienna’s hippest districts away from the magnificent boulevards and the historic city centre, on a free CityBike. Our tip: Vienna’s 4th district, next to the lovely Naschmarkt, is simply bursting with individuality, creativity and culinary delights.

Gourmet & Café – the taste of Vienna!

A top award-winning, modern Austrian restaurant in the park, a sundowner on the beach or a café in the Palmenhaus – Vienna’s food scene is young and contemporary but classic and cosmopolitan at the same time. Between the Danube Canal and the Naschmarkt, the city is a lovely place to stroll around and indulge yourself, perhaps in one of the best spots right by the water on the trendy Tel Aviv Beach (nowhere else in the city can you sit for longer and enjoy the sunshine!) or in the cool, floating restaurant, Motto am Fluss.

Vienna’s famous cosy atmosphere is about far more than just coffee & cake, but of course, you do have to experience that too, and you can find it round nearly every corner in the beautiful Old Viennese coffee houses. Try Café Mozart behind Vienna’s State Opera House, the traditional Café Central on Herrengasse or Café Landmann next to the Burgtheater. And another tip for those with a sweet tooth: go to Demel’s Imperial Royal Court Confectionery Bakery to sample their tempting Demeltorte.

A coffee on the lovely terrace of the Palm House brasserie in the wonderful Burggarten is the perfect way to get you in the mood to visit the Albertina Museum with its world-famous art collection – just round the corner. A delightful way to combine Viennese culture & coffee. Enchanté, Madame! ///

photos: Swarovski Wien, WienTourismus/Peter Rigaud

Vienna means art, music & enjoyment. Vienna is the dynamic city on the Danube that combines lifestyle and tradition, Vienna means deluxe shopping and youthful, cool designer fashion – ladies, welcome to Vienna! Here women with style will find absolutely everything their hearts desire – from Art Deco diamonds to Demel chocolates. This city is simply too sweet and too delicious not to be enjoyed to the full!

vienna ///

What Ladies like To fully enjoy everything Vienna has to offer one day is simply not enough!

Fashion Made in

austria Boutique Runway About 1,000 Made in Austria collection pieces in an area of 300 m2 right on the Petersplatz, 1., Goldschmidgasse 10 www.runway-boutique.com Stroll through beautiful Vienna, along the magnificent boulevards and right into the trendy designer fashion scene.

Lena Hoschek Vienna This designer is responsible for the revival of classic lines and the feminine hourglass silhouette on international catwalks.

Opulent vintage-style fabrics are made into distinctive and unique garments by hand, using traditional methods.

7., Gutenberggasse 17 www.lenahoschek.com

Ep Anoui The Austrian designer Eva Poleschinski established her fashion label in 2008, at the age of 23. In 2014 she was „Designer of the Year“ and her designs can now be seen in international magazines like Vogue, Elle or Madame. Poleschinski’s new Up Store Vienna and workshop are located in a typically Viennese period building on a side street off the Mariahilfer Strasse, 6., Schadekgasse 2 www.evapoleschinski.at Deluxe shopping experience (left) in Vienna.

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Wellness & Beauty

in the city Ladies looking for a short spa break away from art, culture & shopping, in the heart of the city, will strike gold at one of Vienna‘s leading luxury hotels:

Hotel Sacher One Day Spa The Sacher One Day Spa at the prestigious Hotel Sacher, home of the world-famous Sacher Torte offers a truly sinful spa offering including luxury chocolate treatments. www.sacher.com

Sans Souci Vienna Day Spa You don’t have to be a resident at the charming Hotel Sans Souci in the 7th district, right next to the Volkstheater on the Vienna Ring, in order to spend a day being pampered in the hotel’s spa. The elegant Spa Club is an oasis of well-being covering 450 m², with views over Vienna. www.sansouci-wien.com/Day-Spa

vienna ///

For the right treatment

photo: Sacher

After a strenuous shopping day here you will find the perfect place to recover!

RoofTop

tips The best views of the Vienna rooftops and St Stephen’s Cathedral, combined with architecture, art & luxury designer shopping – Das Loft in the Sofitel Design Tower is worth a visit.

The Museums Quarter is the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon of culture and enjoyment in the heart of the city.

Das Loft On the 18th floor of the 5-star Superior Hotel Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom, with probably the best views of Vienna and St Stephen’s Cathedral, beneath a stunning, dazzling ceiling by multimedia artist Pippilotti Rist. Worth a visit simply for the award-winning architecture of glass, steel and concrete designed by Jean Nouvel and the exclusive stores in the Sofitel Design Tower. www.dasloftwien.at

Dachboden loft at the 25hours Hotel

The versatile Dachboden loft serves as everything from a hideaway to a hotel bar and a popular place for revellers to meet.

In summer, the large rooftop terrace is perfect for unforgettable evenings surrounded by Vienna’s stunning museum district. www.25hours-hotels.com

Cafe Bar Bloom Rooftop Bar As you enjoy a Wiener Melange coffee or a sundowner here, you would think you could almost reach out and touch the colourful tiled roof of St Stephen’s Cathedral. www.cafebarbloom.at

Vienna ///

Gourmet temples of

vienna

Pink on the green: women’s golf is big in Austria. Austria tops the gender rankings in Europe, with 40 % of its golfers being female.

Rooms with a view Enjoy Vienna’s diverse culinary delights whilst taking in the sights.

Zum Schwarzen Kameel Vienna’s only genuine Jugendstil restaurant with original décor www.kameel.at

Steirereck in the Stadtpark Award-winning world-class dining followed by a stroll along the Jugendstil promenade

photos: Gerhard Wasserbauer, MQ/Hertha Hurnaus, Rafaela Proell, Mirja Geh

www.steirereck.at

The Bank Restaurant At the stylish Park Hyatt Hotel dine in the historic cashiers’ hall of this former bank www.vienna.park.hyatt.com

Fabios The ultimate Italian place in Vienna to see and be seen, on Tuchlauben in the Golden Quarter overlooking Miu Miu and Valentino www.fabios.at

The modern Viennese cosy setting by the Danube Canal – trendy venues like the Tel Aviv Beach and the Motto am Fluss are the place to be on warm summer nights.

Ladies & golf in

AUSTRIA There are several things about golf in Austria that are special, and one is that the “old boys’ sport” is also very popular with women. With 40 % of its golfers being women (2014: 39,244 % women, 63,981 % men), Austria not only boasts the highest proportion of female players anywhere in Europe, but also a modern, contemporary approach to this traditional sport.

Women not only play an important role as active players with the same tournament rights as men, but also help encourage the next generation. This is one reason why junior golf is so popular here, and the sport is regarded as one for all the family. Not only the successes of the Austrian Golf Association’s national ladies’ team, but also the fact that they have their own Gender Officer in the ÖGV, demonstrate that equal opportunities are really put into practice on the greens. Their leading position in Europe is indicative of the forward thinking and successful development of golf in Austria.

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How to get

there The stretch of the Danube valley between the towns of Krems and Melk is known as the Wachau. It lies approximately 80 km east of Vienna and can be reached easily and quickly by motorway. Boat trips along the river are an excellent way to experience the region.

Lower Austria ///

Enjoying life in the heart of Austria Austria’s largest province and home to the Fontana Golf Club is a region of diversity and contrasts, with unlimited holiday opportunities waiting to be discovered by visitors to The 2022 Ryder Cup.

Lower Austria, encircling Vienna Ernst Porkristl | ExtraGolf & Reisen

photo: Donau Niederoesterreich/Steve Haider

When it comes to scenery, Lower Austria is like Austria in miniature – many of the typical Austrian landscape features can be found in the county surrounding Vienna.

Austria is renowned for classical music, its imperial legacy in Vienna and, above all, its snow-covered mountains. Yet Austria also boasts sprawling plains, dense forests, farmland, rolling hills with fruit trees, the mighty Danube, crystal-clear lakes, picturesque towns and idyllic villages.

What makes Lower Austria special Lower Austria lies in the foothills of the Alps; the famous Semmering railway (which opened in 1854) winds its way up via several viaducts to the 1000-metre-high mountain pass. The highest mountain, with its summit of 2076 metres, is the Schneeberg, which is a favourite of ski tourers from Vienna. The Danube, Austria’s most important waterway, is a defining feature of Lower Austria – it runs for many kilometres through the diverse landscapes of this Austrian heartland.

The water meadows it has left behind are a natural treasure, and a

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national park conserving them has been established to the east of Vienna. The Weinviertel (“wine quarter”), Tullnerfeld plain, Marchfeld plain and the Vienna Basin are home to farmland, allotments, orchards and vineyards. The Mostviertel (“cider quarter”) takes its name from its many fruit trees whose produce is pressed and fermented into “Most” (cider). The Waldviertel (“forest quarter”), which is named after its dense forests, is a remote swathe of land that is rugged, mystical and pristine. Specialities from the Waldviertel include beers from Zwettl and Weitra, farmed carp, potatoes and delicious pastries made using the grey poppy seeds of the region.

“By the beautiful blue Danube …”

Wachau – a UNESCO world heritage and cultural landscape site that boasts a perfect-scoring Riesling wine The Wachau valley is an extremely felicitous symbiosis of nature and culture. It’s natural environment has been formed by the Danube as it cuts its way through the mountainous landscape. Nowadays, we see a narrow valley with steep sides, wooded at the top. Near the river, the slopes are often terraced. Monks began to create these terraces more than 1000 years ago. With their dry stone walls, they are emblematic of the Wachau. Man and nature in harmony have thus created an impressive landscape that is a delight to behold.

Wine-growers make the superb grapes that ripen on the terraces into outstanding white wines. Viniculture often leads to wealth, and the early abbots used their resulting affluence to build magnificent buildings, especially sacred buildings, such as the abbeys of Melk, Göttweig and Dürnstein, the latter with its impressive tower that is practically the “signature hole” of the Wachau. Robber barons ensconced themselves in spectacular castles on the steep valley sides overlooking the Danube. Dürnstein Castle, today in ruins, became the involuntary place of residence for King Richard the Lionheart.

Visitors to the Wachau can enjoy local delicacies such as the delicious dumplings made from the distinctive Wachau apricots, known as “Marillenknödel”. Haute cuisine revolving around and matching the excellent wines has developed, and there are several outstanding restaurants in the region.The more down-to-earth alternative is the “Heuriger”, where guests can enjoy hearty fare and tasty wines. ///

Lower Austria ///

Where the Danube flows

photo: Donau Niederoesterreich/Steve Haider, Michael Liebert

WACHAU - This scenic valley has been voted „best historic destination world wide“ by National Geographic Traveler Magazine.

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The Benedictine Melk Abbey (right), one of Europe’s most beautiful and largest Baroque edifices.

The library is not to be missed!

Highlights &

“Wine is the most useful of drinks, the sweetest-tasting medicine and the most pleasant of foods.”

Plutarch (around 80 A.D.)

M ust S ee The old towns of Krems and Stein, Melk Abbey with its library, Dürnstein with its abbey church and ruin, Weißenkirchen and Spitz an der Donau.

Wine &

cuisine Wines of Wachau The Wachau‘s flagship wines are Riesling (fruity, spicy wines which later become complex), Grüner Veltliner (spicy, peppery), Muskateller (with a Muscat aroma) and Traminer (low in acidity and rich in extracts and aromas). Wines of the highest quality are referred to as „Smaragd“ („emerald“) wines.

The Wine Advocate recently awarded 100 points to the 1995 Riesling Vinothek made by Nikolaihof in Mautern.

Cuisine The Landhaus Bacher restaurant in Mautern is well established on the culinary map. In addition visitors will find countless wine taverns, which are typically more down-to-earth and are full of local character.

Lower Austria ///

Only a drive away Lower Austria has everything that defines Austria, just packed into a smaller area: modern museums, warm hospitality and excellent cuisine.

In the Vicinity of the

F ontana G C The imperial town of Baden

photos: Oesterreich Werbung/Volker Preusser, www.top-heuriger.at/Raidt-Lager, Picturedesk

The Biedermeier town boasts a thermal bath, spa park (“Kurpark”), rose garden, harness racing course, casino, hotels, restaurants, cake shops, cafés and wine taverns.

Wine from the thermal springs region This wine-growing region extends from the southern city limits of Vienna to beyond Bad Vöslau. The northern part of the region is chiefly associated with full-bodied, mature white wines, while to the south of Baden, the superb red wines have led to the wine-growing region becoming known as “the Austrian Burgundy”. The region is home to a wide range of upmarket hotels and restaurants. In addition, visitors can stop in at one of the plentiful wine taverns called “Heurige” - an Austrian institution.

Baden (above) exudes old-world charm

Guests can unwind and luxuriate in the Römertherme (“Roman Baths”) (below).

Thermal Sulfur Springs Three thermal baths, strung out like pearls on a necklace: the Roman baths of Baden, the Bad Vöslau thermal baths, and the “Crystal Spa” of Bad Fischau.

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Bratislava Bratislava Castle towers over the city, providing the perfect spot to admire the splendid view.

Excursions ///

Vienna and beyond Vienna is the ideal starting point for a wide range of exciting day trips and excursions you can enjoy during the week of The 2022 Ryder Cup.

City trips: Short Distances, lasting memories Thomas Pisan | Golf Week

photo: Fotolia

Foto: Donau Niederösterreich / Steve Haider

On top of immersing yourself in Austria and all it has to offer in the form of its wonderful landscape, people, culture and cuisine, The Ryder Cup 2022 will also give you the opportunity to get to know the surrounding countries and the locals there.

After all, Austria’s position at the very heart of Europe means it is the perfect starting point for an excursion or two – here’s a selection of some of the wonderful destinations that await you?

Bratislava (approx. 34 miles from Vienna) Whether you choose to get there by train or car, or even cruise down the Danube, we would recommend that you pay a visit to the Slovakian capital of Bratislava. It’s just a stone’s throw from Vienna – you can travel the 34 miles journey within an hour and a half. The most popular way of reaching this destination is aboard the Twin City Liner on River Danube, which takes swarms of enthusiastic travellers straight from the centre of Vienna to its neighbouring city. As you approach your destination, you will be greeted by a truly spectacular view of the castle grounds, the Old Town and St. Martin’s Cathedral.

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The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul has come to be symbolic of the city as well as being the church of the Diocese of Brno.

Brno (69 miles from Vienna) The charm of Brno is embodied in its beautiful historic centre with its countless Baroque and Renaissance buildings, whilst the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul standing atop Petrov Hill is without a doubt the city’s most dominant feature. This Southern Moravian university town is a major research centre and host to many trade fairs. It isn’t a place likely to be overrun with crowds of tourists. Located just 69 miles away from Vienna, it doesn’t take long to get to Brno – just 1 hour and 40 minutes by train or car.

Budapest (133 miles from Vienna) The Danube is the real star attraction of Budapest, with nine bridges providing crossing points within the city and defining the skyline. The oldest of these landmarks is the Chain Bridge – the city’s emblem.

However, the Danube is not the only connection between Vienna and this former Habsburg city, with both also having a distinct coffeehouse culture. You can drive from Vienna to Budapest in just two and a half hours, or opt for a slightly longer but much more comfortable trip on the train. Alternatively, you could travel in style on the hydrofoil – you are sure to enjoy every second of the five and a half hour journey.

The Chain Bridge boasts two supporting arches reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe and has come to be the landmark of the city of Budapest.

Excursions From Hohensalzburg Castle you can enjoy a magnificent view over the Old Town and the nearby mountains.

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Just a stone’s throw away – #1 Combine your visit to The 2022 Ryder Cup with a day trip to neighbouring capital cities, which are well worth a visit.

photos: Mauritius Images, Tourismus Salzburg GmbH, iStock

Salzburg (157 miles from Vienna) Salzburg is known the world over as the birthplace of Mozart and the city’s heritage has led to it becoming a cultural stronghold that is epitomised in the Salzburg Festival. With Hohensalzburg Castle towering over it, the city’s Old Town is exceptionally well looked after and boasts striking religious and secular buildings from across the centuries. The city centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, as a testament to the beauty of Salzburg’s cultural and natural landscape as well as the extreme care that goes into preserving its history. It will take you somewhere between two and a half to three hours to get to Salzburg from Vienna.

Prague (157 miles from Vienna) Prague – the capital city of the Czech Republic, known as ‘The Golden City’ thanks to its numerous sandstone cliffs that shimmer in the sun – is 157 miles away as the crow flies. The Vltava River runs right through its centre, with Prague Castle and the Little Quarter on the left bank and the Old Town and Jewish Quarter on the right bank.

The way to really soak up the enchanting atmosphere here is to set off on a walk through the cobbled streets. You can get from Vienna to Prague in four and a half hours on the train, and by car you will need about three and a half hours.

Life in Prague is best enjoyed along the banks of the Vltava River.

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These fearsome and rather lifelike masterpieces have been keeping watch over the city of Ljubljana since 1901.

Ljubljana (173 miles from Vienna) Located between Vienna and Venice, Ljubljana is one of Europe’s hidden gems. The cityscape is characterised by different eras, with the work of renowned architect Jože Plečnik as the focal point.

The statue atop the Dragon Bridge has come to be the symbol of Ljubljana, but the city’s most striking landmark is without question its castle, where you can enjoy a truly spectacular view of the Old Town from the viewing tower. Travelling to Ljubljana by train is recommended really only for enthusiasts though, as it is so much quicker to get there by car. In fact, in just three and a half hours you can be admiring the picturesque buildings along the skyline.

Munich (221 miles from Vienna) The Bavarian state capital of Munich is just 221 miles away from Vienna – that’s a mere four hours by car or train. October is the best time to visit, as you can take part in tradition and treat yourself to a Bavarian veal sausage, a pretzel or specially brewed beer at Oktoberfest (which will be being held for the 189th time in 2022) and really get to know the people of Munich. Check out the locals in their Lederhosen and walk in the footsteps of the global football stars from FC Bayern München.

Venice (270 miles from Vienna) The former merchant city of Venice and its historical centre are amongst the most stunningly beautiful places on the planet.

Referred to by Napoleon as “the most beautiful drawing room in Europe”, St. Mark’s Square has been the subject of many a work of art and everyone can conjure up images of gondoliers standing aboard their gondolas as they travel through the maze of narrow streets and under the many Venetian bridges. Venice has also been a centre for Western music, opera and theatre since the Baroque Period. The journey time of just under six hours means it is a bit of a trek from Vienna, but flying will shave five hours off this total. ///

Experience the quintessential joie de vivre of the people of Bavaria at Oktoberfest in Munich.

Excursions ///

Just a stone’s throw away – #2

photos: Getty Images, iStock

Whether you want to drink a beer in Munich or take a gondola ride in Venice, Vienna is the perfect starting point right at the heart of Europe!

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Impressions from the Vienna Life Ball, annually the world’s biggest Aids Charity Event. The square in front of the stunning Vienna City Hall will be a perfect venue for the Opening and Closing Ceremony of The 2022 Ryder Cup.

H o s p i ta l i t y ///

Feel at home A long tradition of hospitality makes Austrians professional and committed hosts.

We proactively recognise the needs and wishes of our guests.

Austria – World ChampionS in Hospitality Claudio Honsal | Perfect Eagle

photo: Life Ball/ Harald Klemm

Over the years, Austria has built up an excellent reputation as a host country for major events, both cultural and sporting.

And the Ryder Cup could soon join this line-up of honoured occasions!

Austria has hosted and managed one-off mega-events such as the 2008 European Football Championship and the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest as well as other celebrated major annual spectacles, each with the efficient logistics, excitement, smooth running, security and charm that Austria is renowned for, never ceasing to fulfil the highest of expectations and always boasting an extensive range of attractive side events alongside. The annual events include the Hahnenkamm ski weekend in Kitzbühel, the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring in Zeltweg, and the world’s largest Aids benefits event, the ‘Life Ball’ in and around Vienna City Hall, as well as the four-day ‘Donauinselfest’, where up to 3.1 million people attend this free event every year. Thanks to its competence, warm hospitality, enthusiasm and charisma, Austria is the right country for major events and therefore the ideal place to host the Ryder Cup.

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2008 European Football Championship The neighbouring countries Austria and Switzerland shared hosting responsibilities for the 2008 European Football Championship under the motto ‘Expect Emotions’. 15 games were played on Austrian soil in stadiums in Salzburg, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt and Vienna, including the grand final in which Spain became the new European champions in front of 52,000 enthusiastic fans in the Ernst-Happel Stadium in Vienna.

Public viewing events were held at every venue and large sections of Vienna city centre were turned into temporary fan fest areas during the European Championship, offering food and drink, entertainment and football to millions of visitors. The successful 2008 event and each of the 31 final-round games were watched live on screens around the world by at least 155 million fans – and Austria impressively demonstrated its hosting abilities.

Hahnenkamm race, Kitzbühel, Tyrol It’s probably the most legendary, difficult and glamorous Alpine skiing weekend in the whole World Cup circus that has played out every year at Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel since 1931. Around 100,000 visitors from Austria and abroad transform all of Kitz (not just the area between Streif and Ganslernhang) into a central sports attraction, while the whole of Kitzbühel and region turns into the Alps’ premier party zone. Anyone who wants the live experience of skiing, après-ski and winter society entertainment should hurry up and book tickets and accommodation for the dates between 19 and 24 January 2016 in Kitzbühel!

Ski Flying World Championships, Kulm, Styria While the slopes of Kitz are the draw for Alpine skiing, the major chance of taking to the sky for Nordic winter sports is at Kulm in the Styrian town of Bad Mitterndorf. International ski flying history has been made and celebrated here with great enthusiasm and passion since 1953. Around 50,000 fans flood into the Taupliz region every year to experience new ski jump records and the wide range

photos: Foto: Picturedesk, Donau Niederösterreich Getty Images/Red / Steve BullHaider Content Pool, Gepa pictures, Kitzbühel Tourismus

Major famous events that are ‘Made in Austria’ prove that we not only focus on superb efficiency and organisation, but that we pour our hearts and souls into these events: Formula One Grand Prix in Zeltweg/Styria (left), Hahnenkamm downhill ski race at the Streif in Kitzbühel/Tyrol (below), Ski Jumping World Championship at Kulm in Bad Mitterndorf/Styria (left) or Beach Volleyball EM in Klagenfurt/Carinthia (below).

H o s p i ta l i t y ///

Reliably capable Whether it’s the Football European Championship, the Formula 1 Race or the Winter Olympics, Austria has vast experience in delivering perfection to major sporting events.

of traditional side events. Kulm will once again host the Ski Flying World Championships in 2016 between 14 - 17 January.

Formula 1 Grand Prix, Red Bull Ring, Spielberg, Styria After a long break, the sound of Formula 1 engines has been heard for the first time since 2014 at the completely redesigned Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, and the winner’s cup for the ‘greatest prize in Austria’ has already been taken home twice by Nico Rosberg. The Formula 1 drivers love the natural ambience around the race track, the professional organisation and, not least, the public, with Formula 1 Reloaded setting new records in Austria in June 2015 with up to 200,000 visitors. The Formula 1 race cars will be making their next pit stop in Spielberg between 1–3 July 2016.

Beach Volleyball Tournament, Klagenfurt, Carinthia: It’s not the Caribbean or a Malibu beach... and the sand and the crash of waves may well be hundreds of kilometres away. Nevertheless,

the annual beach volleyball tournament in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee has become one of the most popular stops for international grand slam tournaments since 1996. More than 150,000 visitors come back each year to enjoy the sports event, the entertainment options outside the courts and the wonderful Wörthersee, which turns into a party scene and international society hotspot every year at the end of July.

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The Eurovision Song Contest 2015 in Vienna – a sparkling example of how exciting Austrian organisation can be.

The Life Ball (below) proves every year how impressive a red carpet in front of Vienna City Hall can be – and maybe will be for the Ryder Cup Ceremonies 2022.

Eurovision Song Contest 2015, Vienna It was thanks to the flamboyant Conchita Wurst that Vienna hosted the largest music spectacular in the world, the Eurovision Song Contest, for its second time in 2015 (the first being in 1967). Under the motto ‘Building Bridges’, the preliminary stages were celebrated in style and the final on 23 May 2015 consisted of a party inside the newly renovated Vienna Stadthalle which also extended to the Eurovision Village around the city hall square and throughout Vienna as a whole. 1800 journalists ensured that all the news was transmitted around the world in 45 countries to over 200 million fans. The motto ‘Building Bridges’ spread like wildfire in 50 different languages.

Life Ball, Vienna Thousands of revellers, incredible costumes, a high-class fashion show and famous names from art, culture, politics and sport have been coming together every year since 1992 in May in and around Vienna City Hall to create a world of tolerance and support – when the ‘Life Ball’ comes to town, the largest benefit event in aid of those infected with HIV and AIDS. 7,000 people celebrate inside, while more than 30,000 join the party around Vienna City Hall and the Burgtheater. The guest list of celebrities lending their support to the event ranges from Bill Clinton to Elton John to every famous fashion designer – Vienna City Hall turns into an internationally renowned event venue for this good cause once a year.

H o s p i ta l i t y ///

Huge crowds - great fun

photos: Picturedesk, Donauinselfest/Hubert Dimko, SPOE/Wien Markus Sibrawa

Vienna manages to navigate its guests with a balance of Viennese charm and safety, to ensure a fantastic 2022 Ryder Cup.

Donauinselfest, Vienna The Donauinselfest in the Viennese recreational area has been held in June since 1984, providing three days of entertainment, a party atmosphere, culinary delights and, above all, music. With over three million visitors in only three days, it is the largest open-air music festival in Europe, giving over 150 national and international bands and artists the opportunity to take to one of the 30 stages distributed around the area and play before an incredibly large audience – and it’s all entirely free. ///

3 million people celebrate the ‘Donauinselfest Vienna’, the biggest open-air music festival in Europe, every year – without any traffic troubles or security problems.

Vienna knows how to handle the biggest and liveliest crowds with competence and charm.

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Dramatic matches are guaranteed on the finishing holes of Fontana Golf Club, as on the 17th green.

Host Venue ///

World-class golf facility Fontana GC is ranked among the best courses in Europe and is perfectly maintained and prepared for The 2022 Ryder Cup.

Fantastic Fontana awaits you Klaus Nadizar | Golfrevue

Fontana GC, which is less than 30 minutes from the centre of Vienna, took golf in Austria to a new level when it opened 20 years ago. Colin Montgomerie predicted early on that the course has got what it takes to be a Ryder Cup venue.

Einstiegsfoto photo: Fontana GC Fontana: GC ???

Even before construction got under way two decades ago, Fontana’s reputation preceded it. The club was tipped to take Austria to the top international level in Europe if not worldwide, at a time when Jack Nicklaus had already made his mark in Austria near to Salzburg with his first course in Europe, and the European Tour had long discovered Austria’s benefits as a golfing destination, with winners crowned there like Ronan Rafferty, Alex Cejka and Paul McGinley.

However, from the outset Fontana had greater ambitions, which it brought to fruition. The Austro-Canadian self-made billionaire Frank Stronach opened up new horizons for golf in Austria. Stronach relocated his company headquarters to the Oberwaltersdorf Palace, commenting “If you want to attract good people, then you have to give them something in return”. He meant what he said – Canadian golf course designer Doug Carrick was allowed to let his imagination

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run riot, resulting in a course par excellence. He was assisted by the expertise of Barry Britton, a golf course superintendent who kept a watchful eye over the quality of the golf course from day one.

Britton’s motto was “drainage, drainage, drainage”. Austria’s new flagship golf course opened its doors in 1997, featuring a clubhouse of dimensions that were and are breathtaking. All the facilities anyone could wish for are available, ranging from the tennis centre to the indoor pool and sauna and, last but not least, the almost 25acre lake with turquoise water and a sandy beach redolent of the Caribbean.

On the course itself Britton coordinated up to 35 greenkeepers, who manicured the course as though a European Tour event, at the very minimum, were being hosted there every day. Indeed, that was and is his intention. “It’s easy to whip a course into shape for one or two weeks, but the secret of a good golf course is consistent quality all year round.” His efforts soon won the recognition of the international golf press. Less than three years after the opening, Fontana GC was listed in the top three, or at the very least in the top five, of the major European golf course rankings.

It was time to take things up a level. Soon the course became a European Tour venue and hosted the Austrian Open on three occasions, at which Markus Brier, then the face of Austrian golf thanks to his debut win on the European Tour, the Spaniard Rafael Cabrera-Bello and the Indian Jeev Milkha Singh were crowned winners. After such a flurry of activity in the early years, Fontana afforded itself a breather until 2014.

Already fit for the Ryder Cup In 2014 Sigi Wolf, former CEO of Stronach’s Magna empire, acquired the course. His aim was clear: “I want to put Fontana back into Europe’s top three”. Wolf has also set his sights on staging the Ryder Cup (see interview). When he took over the course, he therefore engaged the Fontana designer Doug Carrick and brought back the former superintendent Barry Britton, who in the meantime was managing several leading international projects. The duo is going all out to create the “New Fontana”. Even before the bid was submitted, it was clear that the New Fontana is ready to host the Ryder Cup even today. The routing has been and is being modified to meet the specifications, and the vast grounds are to be adapted to meet the needs of the 60,000 visitors expected daily.

The location stands out for the fact that the 120-acre grounds already have all the infrastructure that needed to be specially built at previous Ryder Cup venues. The tennis centre, which is situated five minutes from the first tee can be readily converted into a huge media centre, while the expansive Oberwaltersdorf Palace, which is just a stone’s throw from the course, would serve as a more than fitting headquarters for the tour during the Ryder Cup week, and comes with plenty of space to park to boot.

Speaking of parking, there are also three huge, surfaced car parks for spectators. A Bon Jovi concert, for instance, was held at the Magna Racino racetrack, which is located 15 minutes away, with 50,000 people in attendance. Barely 10 minutes from the course is an airfield. Situated right by the motorway, like the Magna Racino, it would serve as a car park. What’s more, it’s easy to travel to Fontana by rail from Vienna and the south of Austria since Baden railway station is situated in the immediate vicinity of the course.

The whole Fontana area already has perfect infrastructure close at hand. On the image below you can see the tennis centre for press and media left, the Oberwaltersdorf Palace top centre and the Magna HQ right.

Host Venue ///

Excellent infrastructure

photos: Google Earth, Fontana GC

Fontana Golf Club boasts prestigious buildings and facilities that will fully meet the exacting requirements of The 2022 Ryder Cup, while also protecting the environment.

The Fontana Golf Club is a highly popular place to live, as the Fontana Residential Park proves.

Good to

know Total area of 120 acres (including existing facilities for press & event/tour staff)

Three motorway exits in the immediate vicinity

Baden railway station in the immediate vicinity

Parking space for over 30,000 cars within a 15-minute radius

45 minutes to Vienna International Airport

www.fontana.at

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52 | Ryder Cup Austria 2022 | Fontana GC

“

The Ryder Cup can be staged any time on a stadium course like Fontana.

Colin Montgomerie during the Austrian Open 2006

photos: Fontana/Mirja Geh, Fontana GC

„

Host Venue ///

Monty sees the future Fontana was designed 20 years ago so that the hills separating the holes would act as natural tribunes. The redesign will preserve that feature. The vast open areas created by the redesign (some holes will be closed and replaced by new, even more thrilling ones) alone will provide more than enough space to cater to every need. From a stage for the opening ceremony to the tented village, the redesign will take into consideration and fulfil every desire and need.

Particular attention has been paid to the finishing holes, which are always of special importance with a match play format like that of the Ryder Cup. The focus is on risk and reward.

The involvement of Barry Britton is an iron-clad guarantee that no compromises will be made when it comes to quality. Britton has known Fontana right from the start and his expertise put the course on the international golfing map. Britton knows Fontana like the back of his hand.

“We’ll work above all on making the course into an exciting match play course, without ignoring the fact that the members also need to play their rounds on the course without coming a cropper,” he says.

Everything spectators could wish for With Fontana’s Stadium Course setup, The 2022 Ryder Cup spectators will have perfect viewing conditions.

As an aside, Britton, when asked whether the Ryder Cup would come to Fontana one day, once said he doubted it, whereas Colin Montgomerie even then expressed his conviction that the Ryder Cup could be staged any time on a stadium course like Fontana. You were spot on, Monty. ///

Nature meets design at the entrance to the Fontana Golf Club. There’s a sense that the course is destined to be an outstanding Ryder Cup venue. /// 53

The challenging design of the course at Fontana Golf Club promises thrilling matches for players and spectators alike.

Host Venue ///

A respected European Tour venue

photo: Gepa pictures

In 2006 Markus Brier became the first Austrian to win a European Tour event on his home course Fontana Golf Club.

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“We want the Ryder Cup“ Interview with Sigi Wolf Fontana owner Sigi Wolf explains why Austria has what it takes to host The 2022 Ryder Cup.

The question on everyone’s lips is how Austria’s bid for The 2022 Ryder Cup went down.

Since Austria was something of an underdog, there was great surprise that we submitted an extremely strong bid, both in terms of content and visually. It’s rumoured to be the best of the four candidates. Now the officials in London will make their decision on the basis of the bid process. We delivered the very best bid we could, which can naturally still be fine-tuned.

Figures in excess of EUR 100 million have been swirling around in the media. Aside from Fontana, what other organisations have made financing commitments in the event that Austria is awarded the Ryder Cup? The main sponsors essentially come from the Ryder Cup environment, but of course partners from the tourism sector are very welcome to come on board. Their revenues need to be incorporated into the business model, since Austria is ultimately a tourist destination and most of the money will flow into that sector if we’re awarded the Ryder Cup. Austria is a top contender for The 2022 Ryder Cup. What does your bid rest on?

We took the bid seriously from the get-go, rather than making a half-hearted effort. There are substantial costs involved in submitting a bid, so we wanted to make sure we stand a good chance by

pulling out all the stops. Then the Austrian government passed a ministerial council decision, which has to be unanimous, committing itself to the Ryder Cup. That’s a really solid foundation for the bid.

Anyone hosting a major event needs to ask themselves whether they set more store by the commitments of their government or of a potential sponsor. I believe Austria’s triple-A credit rating will be judged very favourably in London.

“

We took the bid seriously from the get-go, rather than making a half-hearted effort.

„

What are your plans for the weeks leading up to the decision?

We’re still hard at work of course to make sure our bid is the very best it can be.

Host Venue ///

We’re in it to win Aiming for the top, the owner and his whole team are passionately committed to the Austrian bid to host The 2022 Ryder Cup.

„A perfect course for spectators“ Interview with Barry Britton Golf course superintendent Barry Britton and golf course designer Doug Carrick are working together to conjure up the perfect Ryder Cup conditions.

What stage are the redesign plans for Fontana at?

After the visit by the Ryder Cup committee in the middle of August, we incorporated some last minor requests, but basically everything’s going to plan.

photos: Gepa pictures/Daniel Goetzhaber & M. Hoermandinger

What’s the main focus of the redesign?

There are a number of points, each of which is important in its own right.

Let’s start by talking about the course …

We’ll close three fairways, which will then serve as the perfect spots for the tented village, ceremonies and tribunes at the centre of the course. And since the venue is designed as a stadium course, there’s a natural amphitheatre feeling throughout. We’ll seed all the greens with Penn grass, and make the fairways and the greens firmer and faster.

Will some bunkers also be moved?

The bunkers will not only be moved, but fundamentally redesigned.

We’ll raise the bunker edges and bring the green bunkers closer to the greens. Additional excitement can be created with the slope of

the greens and the roll-out areas. That’s the MacKenzie style, which is rarely seen in continental Europe.

What about the time frame?

We’re on schedule. We had to fine-tune the routing and design almost a dozen times, but the corrections were only minor ones. Within the next two years everything will be ready for Fontana to stage The 2022 Ryder Cup.

“

Within the next two years everything will be ready for Fontana to stage The 2022 Ryder Cup.

„

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Nine partner nations Hungary is one of nine eastern European partner nations supporting the Austrian candidature for The Ryder Cup 2022.

Pa r t n e r N a t i o n s ///

Contribution to the development of golf The 2022 Ryder Cup is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Austria, and for our partner nations, to showcase golf in the heart of Europe.

Building bridges in the heart of Europe Martin Angerer | Perfect Eagle

photo: Yulia Stepanova

Located at the very heart of Europe and therefore serving as gateway to Eastern Europe and the Balkans, Austria had the vision of inviting countries from around the region to share in a once in a lifetime opportunity and be part of the bidding process for The 2022 Ryder Cup. In total, nine partner countries, all of which find themselves at various stages in terms of golf development, are part of this exciting adventure.

For example, Czech Republic can look back at a rich golfing history, today boasting 102 courses, whereas Macedonia established its golf federation only three years ago and is yet to build its first golf course.

Austria has a long mediatory history and is therefore well suited to paving the way and actively helping the developing East European Countries. A strong emphasis will be placed on the transfer of knowledge. While Austria may be ahead of others in terms of developing creative concepts, which have already been successfully put to the test, the Austrian Golf Federation intends to impart this kind of knowledge to their partner nations by sharing best practices from the recent past, anchoring and securing the growth of golf in the heart of Europe.

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The concept behind the “Hello Juniors” programme has received international recognition and is fully supported by the R&A. Over 100 Austrian golf clubs agreed to allow children under 12 to play golf for free. This initiative will see golf assuming a pioneering role in Austria, as there are no comparable programmes in other sports. “Winning the bid for The Ryder Cup 2022 would allow us to extend this programme, e.g. by increasing the age limit to 14, enabling thousands of youngsters to participate” says Dr. Peter Enzinger, President of the Austrian Golf Association.

“We want the Ryder Cup 2022 to further strengthen golf across Europe, not only in Austria, but in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Russia and Cyprus” informs Fiegl. In this regard, we hold regular meetings and exchange ideas and expertise via “Coach the Coaches” activities, combined tournaments and training camps and joint youth support programmes. Successful nationwide projects like “Hello Juniors” and “School Goes Golf” are set to take off in the partner nations.

Over the next seven years, golf, the European Tour and The Ryder Cup 2022 will thereby have the platform to explore these brand

new markets and capture hearts and minds across ten nations. This would enable The Ryder Cup to reach another level in terms of new markets and achieve another historic milestone in the history of its development.

Austria is ready to play the role of ‘bridge builder’ and visionary on this journey. Let’s cross this bridge together! ///

The Austrian Golf Association has pledged to welcome their neighbouring countries into the event. Metaphorically speaking, The Ryder Cup 2022 would not just take place in Austria, but would be experienced by all neighbouring central and eastern European countries. The Austrian Golf Association will provide financial support, and do whatever else is required to promote and implement this vision.

Participants in the Hungarian Crown Junior Golf Tournament 2015 – part of the World Junior Golf Series

Pa r t n e r N a t i o n s ///

Thanks to the regular exchange of knowledge and experience, golf is progressing well in the partner nations.

Youth development

photos: provided

Austria will share ‘best practices’ gained from years of experience, including the successful “Hello Juniors” programme, which offers under 12s the chance to play golf for free.

The nine partner nations find themselves at various stages of their golfing development. For example, Czech Republic can look back at a rich golfing history, today boasting 102 courses, whereas Macedonia established its golf federation only three years ago and is yet to build its first golf course.

Full support for the Austrian Ryder Cup vision from the Bulgarian Golf Association team

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“Development of golf in the heart of Europe“ Interview with Seth Underwood Seth Underwood is General Secretary of the Bulgarian Golf Association

Mr. Underwood, Austria is hoping to build bridges by involving nine partner countries in its official bid for the Ryder Cup in 2022.

To what extent do international relations matter from a golfing perspective?

The answer to this question begins with ‘vision’. When Austria decided to bid for the Ryder Cup, they looked outside the box and thought for ways to create an opportunity for golf to benefit from our bid – the idea of the partner nations was born. In the context of international relations, this is a showcase on how geographic regions can come together under the umbrella of golf and develop relationships that will benefit all of us in our future growth.

As general secretary of the Bulgarian Golf Association, you also represent one of the partner nations. What does golf in Bulgaria in particular draw from this fruitful cooperation?

The main benefit is from the developing relationship with the Austrian Golf Association, for example by sharing in the success of their “Hello Juniors” programme. Along with more of their best practice, this is of enormous support for us as a developing golfing nation.

A golf course close to Sofia supports the Macedonian Golf Association by serving as their official home course. What does this mean for the Austrian bid (and vice versa)?

We were very fortunate when establishing our association to be taken under the wing of the Scottish & Welsh Golf Unions. When Macedonia started the process of setting up their federation, we were given the opportunity to give something back to the game, hence the home golf course in Sofia. This highlights the possibilities of large and small

nations assisting each other. Austria choosing Macedonia as a partner nation shows a forward-thinking vision that should be applauded.

“

Looking at Austria on the map, it is ideally situated to achieve this.

„

You have been involved in the whole process. What is your personal impression of what Austria has to offer, and who else, other than those already mentioned, would benefit from a positive result this upcoming autumn?

My first impression was “Wow, you are bidding for the Ryder Cup!’” Once I started getting into the whole bid process and the various components that bind it all together, I truly believe the bid is as strong as any other candidate with an angle of building bridges that nobody has considered before. Looking at Austria on the map, it is ideally situated to achieve this. All of us partner nations will benefit, and the seven year run-up to 2022 creates a wonderful opportunity to use the power of the Ryder cup with our Ministry of Sport to further support the development of our game and of course leverage the incredible international media coverage that the Ryder Cup generates.

Pa r t n e r N a t i o n s ///

Austria - the nation of ten In the coming years, Austria and all of these countries will be committed to working together as a team to rewrite the legacy of golf and The 2022 Ryder Cup.

official austria 2022 partnernations

Bulgaria

Croatia

Cyprus

7 golf courses // 843 registered players Like many of the Balkan countries, golf is relatively new to Bulgaria. The Association, founded in 2000, promotes the sport to a younger audience and has already been able to send youth teams to a number of European Golf Association events.

Bulgaria has formed good relationships with established golfing nations such as Scotland and Wales. These experiences have helped both Macedonia and Albania to form their own Federations and propose them for European Golf Association membership. Offering the course in Sofia as their home club has enabled them to host their countries Amateur Championships.

5 golf courses // 1420 registered players Golf has not yet gripped Croatia since the disintegration of former Yugoslavia but does date back here to the roaring twenties.

With a newly established golf association accepted into the European Golf Association last year and Croatia participating in its first EGA team event this July, the future is bright and there is a desire to grow the game. The country could truly benefit from the partner nation concept over the coming years and has been highlighted as a shining example of golf development in an emerging country.

9 golf courses // 1303 registered players Although Cyprus has a fascinating island history, its golfing history only began in 2000. Golf was previously only played on the RAF military bases. With too little water available for maintenance, the construction of golf courses is challenging. Within our partner nations, Cyprus is the furthest away geographically. However, with the enthusiasm of the people and being an island with no neighbouring countries, this initiative is being seen as an opportunity to assist in the development of golf and become involved in the partner nation concept.

Croatian Golf Association

Cyprus Golf Federation

Bulgarian Golf Association President

photo: Bulgarian Golf Association

General Secretary

President

Krassimir Guergov Seth Underwood

Founding Year # of golfers – Year 2014 # of golfers – estim. Potential Year 2022 # of golf clubs in the country – 2015 # of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

2000 843 1830 7 +3

General Secretary

Ivan Jakovcic Drazen Slamar

President

Dr. Demetris Papapetrou

General Secretary

Nick Rossides

Founding Year

1992

Founding Year

2500

# of golfers – Year 2014

1500

# of golfers – Year 2014

1303

# of golfers – estim. Potential Year 2022

5000

# of golfers – estim. Potential Year 2022

2500

# of golf clubs in the country – 2015 # of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

34 +15

# of golf clubs in the country – 2015 # of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

9 +8

/// 63

“

Especially important for us has been the possibility of running a joint junior programme, absorbing knowledge from the Austrian Golf Federation, as a developed golf nation, and sharing ideas on how to overcome common boundaries, between the developing partner nations.

Dr. Demetris Papapetrou – President, Cyprus Golf Federation

„

Czech Republic

Hungary

Macedonia

102 golf courses // 56,438 registered players The Czech Republic is the most advanced of the partner nations with a rich history of golf dating back to 1904. Although interrupted after WWII, golf returned, peaking in hosting a European tour event and the Challenge Tour for many years. This rich experience is crucial to the rest of the partner nations and seen as a bench mark for other countries to strive to achieve. The Czech Republic is named senior nation in assisting with our development program over the next 7 years.

12 golf courses // 1498 registered players Introduced in 1909, Hungarian golf players achieved significant success and were a viable part of the European golf life between 1926 and 1936. From 1952 to 1970, political discrimination influenced golf in Hungary, calling golf a sport non grata. The Hungarian Golf Association was founded in 1989. Hungary now has the opportunity to benefit from the partner nations relationship, creating an exciting window for development in the coming years.

0 golf courses // 119 registered players The Macedonian golf association was only founded in 2011. Without any history of golf, its relationship with Bulgaria and their home club in Sofia is a virtual part of its development. Without any guarantee that a golf course will ever be built or golf to become truly recognized, we decided to take on the challenge. All the partner nations agreed to embrace Macedonia into the heart of Europe and deliver the legacy that we strive to achieve, drawing Macedonia onto the golfing map by 2022.

Czech Golf Federation

Hungarian Golf Federation

Macedonian Golf Federation

President

Zdenek Kodejs

General Secretary Founding Year # of Golf-Players – Year 2014 # of Golf-Players – estim. Potential Year 2022

Martin Bek 1931 56,438 100,000

President General Secretary

András Sugár Dr. László Tasi

President

Les Percevski

General Secretary

Milcho Popov

Founding Year

1989

Founding Year

# of Golf-Players – Year 2014

1498

# of Golf-Players – Year 2014

119

# of Golf-Players – estim. Potential Year 2022

2,000

# of Golf-Players – estim. Potential Year 2022

330

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – 2015

102

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – 2015

12

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – 2015

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

+38

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

+4

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

2011

0 +2

“

With this opportunity to be involved we can learn from Austria taking their best practice such as the "Hello Juniors" programme and benefit from everything that is connected with the Ryder Cup being one of the largest sporting events in the world and all of the attention that this creates.

Pa r t n e r N a t i o n s ///

Austria is a bridge builder Building bridges to a wider golfing community and beyond. We pledge to integrate our neighbouring countries into The 2022 Ryder Cup.

Krassimir Guergov – President, Bulgarian Golf Association

„

Russia

Slovakia

Slovenia

24 golf courses // 1341 registered players In 1987, the spade for Russia’s first, the Moscow Golf Club, was turned by the Swedish hockey player and former world champion Sven Tumba. The same day, Pelé, Tumba, Sean Connery and Alexander Ragulin hit the first shots. The golf association endeavors to popularize the sport, hosting European Tour events. The size of its population means huge potential for a golf market, making Russia a partner nations and benefit for the future.

22 golf gcourses // 7644 registered golfers Slovakia, too, has never been a golfing nation, landlocked and mountainously set in the heart of Europe. Yet, the popularity of golf has been increasing in the former member country of Czechoslovakia. With Bratislava just 45 minutes from Vienna and neighboring Czech Republic and Hungary, Slovakia is in the heart of the partner nations and ideally situated to embrace the growth earmarked for the region in the next years on the build up to the Ryder Cup.

13 golf courses // 8762 registered players Since Slovenia broke away from Yugoslavia in 1991 they have never looked back, wedged in the heart of Europe between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. Slovene golf history dates back to the 1930s, being a preserve of the Yugoslav royal family and visiting gentry.

Geographically placed next to Austria, Slovenia has had the opportunity and benefit of a close relationship, implementing best practice and being a major player in the region for future development of the sport.

Russian Golf Association

Slovak Golf Association

Slovenian Golf Association

President

Victor Khristenko

President

General Secretary

Nikolay Remizov

General Secretary

Ing. Tibor Hubík Kamil Balga

President

Marijan Jurenec

General Secretary

Gorazd Kogoj

Founding Year

1992

Founding Year

2003

Founding Year

1992

# of Golf-Players – Year 2014

1,341

# of Golf-Players – Year 2014

7,644

# of Golf-Players – Year 2014

8,762

# of Golf-Players – estim. Potential Year 2022

4,000

# of Golf-Players – estim. Potential Year 2022

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – 2015 # of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

24 +10

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – 2015 # of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

13,000 22 +12

# of Golf-Players – estim. Potential Year 2022

14,000

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – 2015

13

# of Golf-Clubs in the Country – estim. Potential 2022

+7

/// 65

Adamstal Golf Club – one of Austria’s leading golf courses. Spectacularly nestled in the Alpine foothills of Lower Austria.

Golf in Austria ///

Stunningly beautiful To have an inkling of the superb quality and unique features of Austria’s golf courses, you need to have experienced them in person.

The 2022 Ryder Cup is the perfect opportunity to do just that.

more than 170 Reasons to golf in austria Klaus Nadizar | Golfrevue

Believe it or not, there are more than 170 golf courses across Austria. And, yes, they live up to all the clichés such as mountain views, lederhosen and medieval castles serving as clubhouses, so we fully expect The Ryder Cup 2022 to be one of the most scenic tournaments ever.

photo: Golfclub Adamstal Franz Wittmann

How do you fancy a spot of skiing in the morning and golf in the afternoon, before unwinding in the spa? Or how about teeing off early in the morning, followed by a wine tasting beside the beautiful blue Danube and an evening at the opera? Picturesque views, blissful calm in the heart of nature and drives that sail miles down onto the fairway.

If that rings a bell with you, then you’ve surely already had the pleasure of playing golf in Austria. If not, it’s never too late. Whatever your golfing preferences, Austria will more than meet your expectations.

We even have links courses in the very east of the country. Though Donnerskirchen GC is an inland links course, it lies by Lake Neusiedl and gets pretty windy. But, don’t worry, there aren’t any seagulls.

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By the way, 2005 US Open champ Michael Campbell celebrated his first Challenge Tour victory in Donnerskirchen a few years ago.

In the eastern part of Austria, south from Vienna, in most years the climate allows for golfing in all seasons. To the south of Vienna, Austria is rich in medicinal thermal springs. Moreover, the volcanic rock of the region lends itself to the finest grape varieties. There are several golf courses in this region that are situated amidst vineyards or at least have a handful of wine estates in the immediate vicinity.

Within no more than an hour’s drive of Vienna there are courses like the Colony Club Gutenhof, formerly a European Tour venue where Ronan Rafferty was victorious, Ebreichsdorf GC, home of the European Tour Qualifying Stage I, Föhrenwald GC, which for many years hosted the European Ladies Tour, and Bad Tatzmansdorf, where Bernd Wiesberger learnt to play golf. To the west of Vienna, along the Danube, where the country’s best white wines are made, lies Schloss Schönborn GC, arguably Austria’s most beautiful

Diamond Country Club – Austria’s European Tour venue for the Lyoness Open

Schloss Schönborn GC. View of the 11th hole against the picturesque backdrop of the palace.

Golf in Austria ///

Delightful variety With its over 170 golf courses amid beautiful and sometimes rugged natural surroundings, Austria is undoubtedly the ultimate golfing destination for every taste and ability level.

Dellach GC. One of Austria’s oldest golf courses right by the beautiful Lake Wörthersee

parkland course. What’s more, it boasts a baroque palace as its clubhouse. It was designed by Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt, one of the best known architects of his time, who has several magnificent buildings in Vienna to his name including the Belvedere Palace and what is today the Federal Chancellery.

photos: Golfrevue, Golfclub Schloss Schönborn, Gepa Pictures, provided

Nature in its purest form The scenery of the Alpine foothills is breathtakingly beautiful.

Adamstal Golf Course, with its secluded setting, is one of Austria’s most extraordinary golf courses. Many times crowned “Austrian golf course of the year”, its 28 holes, each of which is entirely separate, take players through what feels like an enchanted forest. Adamstal is a must for anyone who relishes playing golf in unspoiled natural surroundings. It’s the masterpiece of the Irish golf course architect Jeff Howes, who also beautifully redesigned the famous Ryder Cup course “The Belfry”.

More than 3000 Fairways The golf tour of Austria continues in the sunny south with its gleaming lakes and mountain peaks. In Carinthia, the southernmost of Austria’s nine federal states, you can plunge into a different crystal clear lake after every putt. One of the country’s oldest clubs, the Kärtner Golf Club Dellach, which was founded in 1927, provides views of Lake Wörthersee that are to die for.

However, that’s not all Austria has to offer in the way of golf courses with stunning vistas. The jaw-dropping mountain backdrops of Austria’s golf courses often steal the show, but not every fairway snakes like a roller coaster. In fact, we do have different slopes for skiing and for golf.

You can take on the challenge of Bernhard Langer’s DachsteinTauern GC, which is as flat as a pancake, or the 36-hole-facility in Zell am See, better known for the two glaciers after which the Kitzsteinhorn and Schmittenhöhe golf courses are named. You can ski there even in summer, and play a round of golf later in the afternoon …

GC Murhof in the heart of Styria was the venue of the Ladies European Championship 2015.

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In southern Styria, which is also known as “the Austrian Tuscany”, small wine taverns and large wine estates are an agreeable way to round off a day of golf spent on the wonderful fairways, such as those of Murhof GC. Rory Mcllroy, Colin Montgomerie and many other Ryder Cup heroes have already had the pleasure of playing there. By the way, the European Junior Ryder Cup Captain Gary Stangl hails from this traditional club, which has hosted several major international events in the past.

Mozart, Kitzbühel & Golf Mozart’s birth place of Salzburg is also home to the first course designed by Jack Nicklaus in Europe. Gut Altentann GC ushered in a new era in Austrian golf at the end of the 1980s – think international golf course design paired with Austrian charm.

Towards Lake Constance, where Austria borders Switzerland, there are still more golf courses located in spectacular natural surroundings. Seefeld, which is idyllically situated on an alpine plateau, and Zillertal Uderns GC, the recently opened showpiece of the Tyrolean Alps number among the 170 Austrian golf courses that all have two things in common: a love of nature and a passion for quality. ///

Altentann GC: Altentann GC. International design meets Austrian charm in Salzburg

Almost around the corner, Robert Trent Jones redesigned a traditional club, Klessheim GC, and even took inspiration from Mozart in the process: “Good golf course design is like good music – it needs to flow between piano and forte.”

Further to the west are regions that are household names among skiing fans: Kitzbühel, Saalbach-Hintgerlemm and Radstadt. Yet the quality of the golf courses more than matches that of the ski slopes.

Half a dozen of the very best golf courses are situated in and around Kitzbühel. We’re proud to say that one of them, the Rasmushof, in winter even serves as the final slope of the famed Hahnenkamm downhill ski race. And it goes without saying that a brilliant golf course architect has made his mark here – Kingsbarns designer Kyle Phillips truly excelled himself in Kitzbühel with KitzbühelEichenheim GC.

Zillertal Uderns GC. Idyllic golfing amid the Tyrolean Alps

Golf in Austria ///

A blend of traditional and modern

photos: Golfrevue, Gunda Cuba, provided

In addition to idyllic landscapes, a blend of traditional and modern design and superbly maintained courses, Austria’s first-rate golf hotels provide the ultimate feel-good factor.

Above: Mondsee GC. 18 beautiful holes right by Lake Mondsee, just 25 minutes from the city of Salzburg.

Left: Close to the centre of Vienna, Golf Club Wien, one of the oldest in Austria, features a horse racetrack crossing through one of the sholes.

Good to

know The first Austrian golf course opened in 1901.

Lower Austria is blessed with the most golf courses of Austria’s nine nine counties.

Burgenland is home to the largest golf resort – Golfschaukel Stegersbach boasts five different golf courses. www.golf.at

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Golf in Austria ///

Come and visit Word has got around of Austria’s excellence as a golfing destination.

Many top international golfers have already had the pleasure of playing on the country’s golf courses and experiencing Austria’s legendary hospitality.

“

photo: Michael Werlberger

What do Rory McIlroy, Colin Montgomerie, John Daly, Paul McGinley, Padraig Harrington and many other star golfers have in common? They have all played in Austria and enjoyed our world famous hospitality.

„

/// 73

BA-CA Austrian Open Markus Brier (AUT), Clemens Prader (AUT) and Bernhard Langer (GER) on Super Tuesday at the BA-CA Austrian Open 2005

Competitive Golf ///

Great careers started in Austria Many well-known golfers today were once international tournament players in Austria and celebrated their first victories here.

thumbs up for austria Klaus Nadizar | Golfrevue

Austria had made a name for itself in international golf long before Bernd Wiesberger and the Lyoness Open. The tour has been stopping in Austria for almost 30 years, and there have been plenty of victories to celebrate.

photo: Gepa pictures

Before we turn entirely to name-dropping and listing all the major champions who have already played and won in Austria, we can recognise that Austria is a golfing nation with a great history and many stories behind it. The red/white/red pros have celebrated victories on every European tour over the last 30 years and the country is loved like no other by the tour and players when it comes to hosting.

After all, it is not just the European Tour that has been making a regular stop in Austria since 1990; the Challenge Tour has a similarly long history with Austria. And with the Ladies Tour, Third Level Tour, Amateur European Championships, European Young Masters and similar events being held regularly in Austria, it’s fair to say that Austria is a natural when it comes to hosting, without ever demanding a place in the limelight.

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Let’s go through our amazing tour legacy as hosts in chronological order. Just so we all know where we stand, we’ll start off with Jack Nicklaus. The ‘golden bear’ is pretty much the first superstar on a long list of players who have enjoyed visiting Austria regularly. It was at his golf course in Altentann, near Salzburg (the birthplace of Mozart), that the Austrian Open came into being. The winner was no less than Bernard Langer.

The first three years of the Austrian Open were packed full of recognisable names from a generation that would go on to be successful Ryder Cup players and major champions: Darren Clarke, Joakim Haeggman, Thomas Levet.

Then the tournament moved east to the greater Vienna area and even more celebrated names were added to the list. When it hit Waldviertel, where the Austrian Open set up camp between 1994 and 1996, the tour was noted for its great hospitality and every top player was keen to be part of the event. Vijay Singh teed off in Austria during that period, as well as Barry Lane, Anders Forsbrand and Paul McGinley. Later to become a Ryder Cup hero, both as a player and captain, McGinley even celebrated his first win on the European Tour in Austria in 1996. The New Zealander Michael Campbell, who celebrated his first Challenge Tour win in Austria in 1994, went on to defeat Tiger Woods in the U.S. Open eleven years later.

Even the change from Fontana to the similarly grand Diamond Country Club in 2011 did nothing to halt the upswing. The appearances of John Daly, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell and Miguel Angel Jimenez (the latter married to an Austrian) at the Lyoness Austrian Open ensured the continuation of a long tradition – Austria is worth the journey.

Speaking of the Challenge Tour, the Austrian fairways have also played host to a succession of famous names on this tour. Ian Poulter missed the cut on the Challenge Tour Event in Carinthia, while his buddy Justin Rose celebrated his first top 10 result.

High-end amateur events Ask any top amateur golfer who has played at the Ladies European Championship in Murhof how major international events are hosted in Austria, and they’ll say with the maximum possible professionalism, backed up by incredible warmth. Every player has thanked the hosts in person.

Fontana was also proof that golf in Austria could move the masses.

The years that followed were shaped by wonderful pictures from the European Tour in Austria: For example, when Nick Faldo hit balls in front of Schönbrunn Palace.

It’s certainly not the only event of its type where Austria has played its host role to perfection. Colin Montgomerie played in a European Championship in Austria in 1987, Carl Pettersson won it in 2000 and a certain Rory McIlroy teed off in the European Young Masters in Murhof in 2004. And, believe it or not, it was such a special experience that McIlroy still remembers playing at that Murhof tournament today.

The Ryder Cup players and their wives will all feel the same when they leave Austria after the 2022 Ryder Cup with a bag full of wonderful memories. /// photo: Gepa pictures, Getty Images

A new era The new century took golf in Austria to the next level; Markus Brier became our first home pro to become a regular part of the European Tour and public interest in golf hit an all-time high.

After his emotional home wins at Challenge Tour level in 2002 and 2004, Brier sent the Austrian golf community into ecstasy in 2006 at Fontana, the proposed Ryder Cup course, with the first win by an Austrian on the European Tour and on a home course too. No author could have written a better fairytale. Superstars such as Colin Montgomerie, Paul McGinley and Miguel Angel Jimenez were happy to take a step back and allow Markus Brier to celebrate with the crowd of 30,000 fans. Fontana became the birthplace of a new self-image for Austrian golf: we can do anything if we try!

Bernd Wiesberger’s victory at the Diamond Country Club in 2012, six years after Markus Brier’s emotional home win, saw the birth of yet another home star, providing a logical conclusion to a long journey that is nowhere near its end just yet.

Maria Parra Luque (ESP), International European Ladies Amateur Champion 2015 at Murhof GC in Austria

Peter Uihlein (US), European Challenge Tour champion at the Kärnten Golf Open 2012 at Klagenfurt-Seltenheim GC

Competitive Golf ///

International hosts for decades Austria has been the stage for international golf tournaments for decades and The 2022 Ryder Cup would fit seamlessly into its sporting history.

Good to

know 15 European Tour Events

15 European Challenge Tour Events

8 European Ladies Tour Events

17 main international Amateur Events (incl. European Young Masters, European Amateur Championships)

Fotos:

10 Austrian victories on main or challenge tours

Markus Brier (AUT), Colin Montgomerie (SCO) and Joakim Haeggman (SWE) at the BA-CA Austrian Open 2004

Paul McGinley (IRL), Team Europe Ryder Cup Captain 2014, winning his first European Tour title at the Austrian Golf Open in 1996 /// 77

Schรถnbrunn Palace Nick Faldo (GBR) taking aim at Schรถnbrunn Palace in 2003.

Competitive Golf ///

It would have pleased the Emperor himself

photo: Gepa pictures

The celebrated golfer Sir Nick Faldo had the chance to use the imperial Schรถnbrunn Palace as his exclusive driving range during the Austrian Golf Open. The Emperor would have been very amused.

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22 questions, 22 answers An interview with Bernd Wiesberger Why the superstar believes that Austria should host the Ryder Cup and what his favourite number is.

1. Bernd, do you remember the first time you hit a golfball?

Unfortunately, I can’t remember the first time, but I’m pretty sure it was in Bad Tatzmannsdorf and it obviously awoke my enthusiasm from the start.

2. And your first tournament win?

I can’t remember that either. I played in a lot of club tournaments as a young player and spent a lot of time on golf courses. The first victory that I can remember was a kids’ tournament in Bad Gleichenberg. I think that was in 1995.

3. At least 90 % of Austrian kids want to become Olympic or

world ski champions. Why did you choose golf?

I think it was just that I liked the environment and it gave me a certain feeling of euphoria. My parents run the pro shop in the local golf club and it was only about five minutes from our house.

4. Was there a specific moment when you made that decision: I want to be a golf pro?

No, there wasn’t really a certain moment. During the last few years of my amateur career, it was very much on my mind and I realised that this was the route I wanted to take.

5. Three wins on the European Tour, plus a major, namely

the 2014 PGA Championship on the final day, and now established in top international rankings. Are there any limits for Bernd Wiesberger?

My aim is to stay at this level for a long time and to keep playing top international tournaments. I can always come up with a surprise on a good week.

6. As an Austrian, are you able to say: I want to be number 1 in golf?

It’s not forbidden at least, as far as I know (laughs).

7. As an Austrian, are you able to say: I want to be in Team

Europe for the Ryder Cup? I believe I’ve lived up to this honour with my results at the start of the

Competitive Golf ///

Local hero Bernd Wiesberger is currently the top Austrian tour player and is on course to take Team Europe to victory in The 2022 Ryder Cup.

current season. As long as I can maintain this level, that aim doesn’t seem so far away.

Particularly important, the incredible support from both the golfing and non-golfing communities in Austria.

8. Can Austria say: we want the 2022 Ryder Cup?

12.

Why not? I’ve had confirmation from a few sources that the Austrian bid is very strong and it’s the strongest nation in certain areas. The bid means that golf is represented more in the media and that’s a step in the right direction for the development of golf in Austria as a whole. The Austrian bid certainly has many strengths. We are definitely the strongest nation in many respects.

9. Why do you believe that Austria, and more specifically Vi-

enna and its Fontana GC, is the right place to host the 2022 Ryder Cup? Fontana already has experience with European Tour tournaments.

Its proximity to Vienna and central location in Europe are definite plus points for the bid. Austria is also well known for its superb organisation of major events and its wonderful hospitality.

photos: www.stefanleitner.com, Gepa pictures

10. The Austrian government is giving the bid its full backing – is that a positive factor from your point of view?

An event like this couldn’t happen without political support. The Austrian government has recognised the huge potential of this bid, both before and during the event itself in 2022, and long after.

11. What do you think are the other points in favour

of Austria as the 2022 Ryder Cup venue?

The great atmosphere and quality of the course at Fontana GC, excellent connection to transport routes and superb infrastructure.

You are very familiar with the course that Austria is proposing for the 2022 Ryder Cup, reaching fourth place there in the Austrian Open in 2006 as an amateur. Does the course bear comparison with the other European Ryder Cup courses – after all, you’ve played a few of them?

I think that Fontana has made its mark as the host for Challenge Tour and European Tour tournaments. There are only a handful of courses around the world at most that wouldn’t have to be redesigned and adapted to a certain extent in order to be suitable for the Ryder Cup. The redesign plans for Fontana are well known and will certainly ensure a great atmosphere for an exciting match play format.

13. You’ve played with all the top stars of the golfing world,

from Rory McIlroy to Phil Mickelson and most recently Bubba Watson at the Masters and Jordan Spieth at the WGC event in Akron. Has Austria’s Ryder Cup bid come up in conversation?

It’s not a subject that’s being discussed much among the players.

Apart from anything else, there’s usually not time for much conversation like that on the course.

14. There’s still a while to go until 2022. Time for Austrian

golf talents to reach the top as potential Ryder Cup players.

You yourself are incredibly active as a home golf superstar.

What are the reasons behind your support for Austria’s largest upcoming talent tournament series?

I’m pleased to be working with the Austrian Golf Association as a

/// 81

“

The Fontana redesign will be amazing: the course is perfect for creating the best possible atmosphere and for the match play format.

It's only 30 minutes from Vienna . It doesn't get better than that!

flavour to the team, but most people agree that Paul McGinley was the best person overall to ever lead Team Europe.

20. What are your top three Ryder Cup memories?

GMac’s putt in Wales, Jamie’s wedge in Gleneagles and Tiger’s putt into the water in Valderrama (at least from a European point of view) ;)

21. Imagine we are looking into a crystal ball. The Ryder Cup

comes to Austria in 2022: what role will Bernd Wiesberger play then?

Ideally, getting five points for Europe ;)

22. What is your favourite number?

1, as in a hole-in-one.

„

patron of the Austrian Juniors Golf Tour youth series. It’s important for young people to have one or more series in which they can measure themselves against or with one another. There was a series like that when I was starting out and it really helped my development.

15. As a golf pro, your ‘workplace’ is the whole world and you

must have seen almost all of it. Nevertheless, you always like coming home and you even train at home. Why? I think everyone likes coming home from ‘work’ to relax and recharge your batteries. I also think the training conditions are perfect here.

16. What’s the particular appeal of Vienna for you personally?

I really have been almost everywhere and Vienna is the perfect, most beautiful city. Not too large, but cosmopolitan in attitude, with fantastic culture coupled with great Austrian hospitality.

17. How would you describe our country to people who’ve

never been to Austria before?

Lots of mountains, a few lakes, snow in winter, warm in summer.

Everything your heart desires.

18. Back to the subject of the Ryder Cup: which is the first Ryder Cup that you remember as a golfer?

Valderrama in 1997.

19. Which Ryder Cup captain has made the greatest impres-

sion on you so far?

I think each one has really succeeded in bringing it’s own particular

Good to

know Born: 8/10/1985

Turned pro: 2006

European Tour victories: 3 (Ballentine’s Championship 2012, Lyoness Open 2012, Alstom Open de France 2015)

Other victories: 3 (2 times Challenge Tour, 1 Asian Tour – CIMB Niaga Indonesian Masters)

Teams: Royal Trophy 2013 (winner)

Best Masters Rookie 2015 (tied 22nd)

www.bw-golf.com

Competitive Golf ///

Role model

photo: Gepa pictures

Bernd Wiesberger is a great example for many young Austrian golfers and inspires them, just like it would inspire them if The 2022 Ryder Cup were to be held in Austria.

Bernd Wiesberger (AUT) victorious at the Lyoness Open 2012.

/// 83

Horses for courses Klaus Nadizar | Golf Revue

Having three European Tour and one Asian Tour victories under his belt, Bernd Wiesberger is undoubtedly Austria’s golfing hero. But we did, and do, have quite a few more.

The most recent memories are always the freshest. That’s entirely normal. This is why the celebration of Bernd Wiesberger’s success at the Alstom Open de France on the Golf National Ryder Cup course is still lingering in people’s minds. However, despite the records that Bernd Wiesberger keeps breaking, the 28-year-old world number 30 is not the only one on the way up. Whether pro or amateur, Austrian golfers have had repeated reason to celebrate over the past 15 years.

The grand master of Austrian golfing, Markus Brier, was the first to step out onto the stage. He was the trailblazer for Austria’s golfing success, which has now seen four home players on the European Tour. Brier, the first Austrian to gain a tour card, has been a true pioneer in every respect for everything that has happened since.

Two wins on the European Challenge Tour (2002, 2004) were the first signs that Austrian golf could and should be taken seriously.

The first young Austrian upcoming golfers also made the leap into the Junior Ryder Cup Team in the same years: Katharina Werdinig joined the K-Club line-up in 2002 and Dominic Angkawidjaja made it in 2004, with a clear victory for Team Europe in the Junior Ryder Cup alongside Rory McIlroy and Oliver Fisher in Westfield, Ohio. The shuttle heading for future success was well on its way.

The big breakthrough was in 2006 when, in front of over 30,000 spectators, Markus Brier became the first Austrian on the European Tour to win the championship, and on his home course too – Fontana GC – which will hopefully be the home of The 2022 Ryder Cup, with around double the number of spectators. From then on, everything changed. The tranquillity of the Austrian professional golfing scene experienced what can only be described as a euphoric gold rush, which would soon bear fruit among the up-and-coming professionals.

The first wave was launched towards the European Tour in 2007: Markus Brier collected his second title on the European Tour in China, Martin Wiegele won events on the Challenge Tour and reached the final stage of the European Tour School, where Florian Prägant also became the third Austrian to qualify for the main tour, coming in fourth place.

Nicole Gergely was the first Austrian to win a tournament on the Ladies European Tour in 2009, and only a year later, Martin Wiegele won the title at the European Tour Event in St. Omer, after his victory at the Kärnten Golf Open (Challenge Tour).

Wiegele even showed off his hole-in-one skills on the tour, twice at the same event in consecutive years as an ace in the pack.

2010 really was the year of the Austrians on the Challenge Tour.

Martin Wiegele and Bernd Wiesberger made it onto the list of winners three times each – all at tournaments in France.

The next coup, albeit at amateur level, was not far behind: Manuel Trappel made golfing history in June 2011. The Austrian won the European Amateur Championship title in Sweden and joined Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy on this incredible list of winners.

Hit after hit followed, with all the Austrian top golfers achieving great success. Bernd Wiesberger won two titles on the European Tour in 2012 and visibly established himself as part of the international elite.

Wiesberger almost reached the top 20 in the world rankings by mid2015 with his win in the Open de France, having played in the final flight of the PGA Championship for the title with McIlroy in 2014, and he became the best Masters débutant in 2015.

Luckily for Austrian golf, there are already plenty of promising candidates who could follow Wiesberger to the top. One of them is Matthias Schwab, the top amateur Austrian, who reached a sensational second place in the British Amateur in 2013 and has played so successfully for his university in the USA. With his win in the Swiss Amateurs in 2015, Schwab qualified for the European Tour

Competitive Golf ///

Austrian colts

Left: Markus Brier (AUT) victorious at the BA-CA Austrian Golf Open 2006

photos: Gepa pictures, provided

Below: Emma Spitz (AUT), Italian International Amateur Champion 2015 at only 14 years old

The Austrian Golf Association has worked hard over the years to nurture many young talents. Some of them have already enjoyed major international success and have a great future ahead of them.

Manuel Trappel (AUT), first Austrian winner of the European Amateur Championship, in 2011

Left: Isabella Holpfer (AUT), Irish Women’s Open Amateur Stroke Play Champion at only 14 years old Right: Third Place for the Austrian Girls Team at the European Team Championships 2015.

/// 85

event in Crans Montana. He had already made the cut for a European Tour Event twice before: in 2010, he was the third youngest player ever to reach this level, when he was just 15 years old.

More and more Austrian pros are reaching the Third Level Tours, solidifying the basis for Austrian success. And there’s plenty of success there too: the brothers Lukas and Tobias Nemecz made it onto the Challenge Tour twice in a row.

The women, or really girls, have also been experiencing incredible success. Two super-talents, Emma Spitz (15) and Isabella Holpfer (14), have been winning titles in the general classes: Spitz has won the Italian Ladies Amateurs and Holpfer the Irish Ladies.

One thing is for certain: a few titles should have been added to the list for Austrian golfers by 2022. ///

Above: Challenge Tour Player Lukas Nemecz also provides strong support for the bid.

Top amateur Matthias Schwab is an international ambassador for Austrian golf.

Competitive Golf ///

Good Omen

photos: Gepa pictures

Bernd Wiesberger is the current champion of the Alstom Golf Open de France. A good omen, as this tournament was held at Le Golf National de Paris, the 2018 Ryder Cup host venue.

/// 87

Building the future of golf ///

Hello Juniors Children under 12 play for free at more than two-thirds of Austria’s golf clubs! The positive influence of hosting The 2022 Ryder Cup in Austria would pave the way for implementing the “Hello Juniors” program nationwide.

Hello Juniors – Youth Golf Program Martin Angerer | Perfect Eagle

Bring on the new generation …

photos: Austrian Golf Association, provided

… while the game remains the same Inspiring children, consistently encouraging them to excel and providing them with the best possible support in their development as golfers is of great importance to the Austrian Golf Association. That’s why children play for free up to the age of 12 in Austria.

“All Austrian youngsters should have the chance to try their hand at golf, to play and to compete in tournaments. There’s only a long-term chance of success within an organised structure,” says President Dr. Peter Enzinger, explaining the goals of the Austrian Golf Association. Together the Austrian golfing community strives to promote the development of young golfers in various areas. A wide-ranging network is available to provide professional support and mentor aspiring athletes from a young age right through until they turn pro.

The Austrian golf clubs do a great job – together with the regional associations, they form the bedrock of Austrian golf. The range of training programs and tournament series is constantly expanding, and shows how the next generation of golfers can be inspired from a young age.

/// 89

Golf Goes School and the Antenne School Golf Day are part of the “Hello Juniors” program

Paul is eight years old. His parents are looking for a suitable sport to provide an outlet for his natural agility. They’re keen for their son’s young locomotor system to be trained all round, as well as for Paul to benefit from the social aspects of a sporting community. They’re seeking an environment that they feel comfortable leaving Paul in on a regular basis and that can become his sporting home for many years.

Paul and his parents visit the “Hello Juniors Road Show” in a nearby shopping centre. The road show comes to numerous venues across the country so that kids and teenagers can try their hand at golf using specially designed equipment. Both kids and their parents are invited not only to explore the facilities at their local golf club, but also to learn more about the game of golf in general. Professionals share their expertise with all those interested.

Paul gets positive feedback – he instinctively hits the ball well. The parents have a good vibe after talking with the pros and the people running the event.

It’s not long before Paul can impress his classmates with the skills that he has already picked up. During the Antenne School Golf Day, he and his classmates have an exciting time on the golf course.

Paul’s parents and the parents of Paul’s best friend decide to enrol the two youngsters in a training programme at their local club.

The parents are pleasantly surprised by the inexpensive start to their son’s golfing career. Hello Juniors – the Austrian Golf Association’s

Generously supported by a private Austrian radio station, the annual Antenne School Golf Day takes place in the Austrian province of Styria. It welcomes some 4,000 enthusiastic pupils and encourages them to try out golf. Since 2006, some 20,000 kids between the ages of 6 and 10 have been given the chance to discover the fascination of golf. At this full-day event, entire school classes enjoy action-packed hours out at their local golf clubs. All activities are run by the clubs’ golf professionals and instructors trained by the Austrian Golf Association.

Golf Goes School – cool as golf can be!

Today the lack of physical exercise at school is a much discussed topic across Europe. With “Golf Goes School”, the Austrian Golf Association is seeking to address the physical needs of kids and teenagers directly. Launched across the country as part of the Austrian government’s initiative to introduce a daily PE lesson in schools, trained golf instructors give golf lessons at schools on a regular basis.

flagship youth golf program – enables all children under 12 to have free membership of a golf club of their choice. A total of 102 Austrian golf clubs participate in this campaign, which is to be adopted by the nine eastern European Partner Nations of Austria’s Ryder Cup bid (see Partner Nations, page 58), to sustainably promote the next generation of golfers in those countries too.

Building the future of golf ///

“Hello Juniors” is great fun and lets youngsters experience the excitement of winning their first competition medals

Competitive golf for youngsters When we are awarded The 2022 Ryder Cup we would introduce the Austria Juniors Golf Tour into all our Partner Nations to allow their youths to compete internationally on a regular basis.

photos: ÖGV, provided

During their training, Paul, his friend and the other kids all have one goal: the Junior Pass. The basic training class for kids aged 6 to 12 not only teaches them how to play golf and the relevant techniques, but also helps them in acquiring the required basic fitness level and coordination for further development of their skills. By the end of the training program, the two boys have a handicap of well under 36.

As Paul and the other youngsters get older, they train hard and get better and better. The numerous tournament series give children in all performance categories the chance to compete with others of the same age. Paul’s parents have got the golf bug thanks to the enthusiasm of their son and the parents of other kids from the golf training program, who frequently invite Paul’s parents to join them for a round of golf.

The most successful initiative called Hello Juniors enjoys international recognition. The campaign, which allows all children under 12 free membership of a golf club of their choice, with as many free rounds of golf as they wish, is to be adopted in exactly that form by the nine Partner Nations of the Austrian Ryder Cup bid.

The Schülercup introduces children and young people to competitive sport. With a total of 120 tournaments and 1,000 competitors who played 5,000 rounds, the Schülercup has proven a runaway success.

One level above the Schülercup and just below the national championships, the Austrian Juniors Golf Tour presented by Bernd Wiesberger marks the next stage in a young golfer’s career. This event seeks to familiarise kids and teenagers in the under 12 to under 21 categories with competitive golf.

/// 91

Alexander Flechl won the gold medal for Austria in the Unified Sports Team Play category of the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles 2015.

Disabled Golf in Austria In Austria people with disabilities play golf to push themselves to their limits and boost their self esteem.

The coordinated motions and mental concentration involved in playing golf clearly have a beneficial health effect. In addition, golf as a social game is probably the only sport where you can play both with and against one another.

Disabled golfers are actively integrated into Austrian golfing. Modified golf rules enable players with disabilities to participate in open competitions. Series of inclusive tournaments bring together golfers with disabilities and able-bodied golfers. The Austrian Disabled Golf

Club (BGC) was founded in 2007. The Austrian Golf Association supports its integration work both technically and financially. The tenth International Austrian Disabled Championship and an Austrian Blind Open were held in 2015.

Exemplary integration brings Olympic success The integration efforts of the Austrian Golf Association have been rewarded in the very first year that golf returned to the Olympic fold after over a hundred years. The two Austrians Alexander and Albert Flechl won the gold medal for Austria in the Unified Sports Team Play category of the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles with an impressive lead of 10 strokes. ///

Building the future of golf ///

Gold medal for Austria!

Austria has already won gold in the Golf Special Olympics! The positive impact of The 2022 Ryder Cup would greatly aid the integration process.

photos: Gepa pictures, Lebenshilfe Kaernten, KK Verein Special Olympics/Herzschlag Kaernten

Paragolf European Championships 2010 in Austria: Promoter Georg Kronberger (Paragolf-EM), Anthony Netto (RSA), Sepp Loisinger (OEBSV), Walter Althammer (BGV) and Thomas Geierspichler (AUT).

The 10th International Austrian Disabled Championship and an Austrian Blind Open were held in 2015.

Big cheers for the team Austria at the award ceremony of the Special Olympics 2015

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there are Probably way MORE THAN 2022 good Reasons…

WHY AUSTRIA SHOULD HOST THE 2022 RYDER CUP HERE ARE JUST THE FIRST 22 REASONS. COME AND EXPERIENCE FOR YOURSELF ALL THE OTHERS!

Vienna

Vienna

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The perfect host

Most liveable city

This beautiful city is ready to put on an international celebration of golf for all visitors to The 2022 Ryder Cup.

The 2022 Ryder Cup will feel very comfortable, because Vienna was crowned the world’s most liveable city for the sixth year in a row!

Vienna

Lower Austria

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The best choice

Enjoying life in the heart of Austria

In addition to The 2022 Ryder Cup matches, Vienna has amazing sights to see and activities to try.

Austria’s largest province and home to the Fontana Golf Club is a region of diversity and contrasts, with unlimited holiday opportunities waiting to be discovered by visitors to The 2022 Ryder Cup.

Lower Austria

Excursions

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Only a drive away

Vienna and beyond

Lower Austria has everything that defines Austria, just packed into a smaller area: modern museums, warm hospitality and excellent cuisine.

Vienna is the ideal starting point for a wide range of exciting day trips and excursions you can enjoy during the week of The 2022 Ryder Cup.

Excursions

H o s p i ta l i t y

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Just a stone’s throw away

Feel at home

Combine your visit to The 2022 Ryder Cup with a day trip to neighbouring capital cities, which are well worth a visit.

A long tradition of hospitality makes Austrians professional and committed hosts.

We proactively recognise the needs and wishes of our guests.

H o s p i ta l i t y /// H o s p i ta l i t y ///

Huge crowds - great fun Vienna manages to navigate its guests with a balance of Viennese charm and safety, to ensure a fantastic 2022 Ryder Cup.

Reliably capable Whether it’s the Football European Championship, the Formula 1 Race or the Winter Olympics, Austria has vast experience in delivering perfection to major sporting events.

Host Venue

Host Venue

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World-class golf facility

Everything spectators could wish for

Fontana GC is ranked among the best courses in Europe and is perfectly maintained and prepared for The 2022 Ryder Cup.

With Fontana’s Stadium Course setup, The 2022 Ryder Cup spectators will have perfect viewing conditions.

Host Venue

Pa r t n e r N a t i o n s

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A respected European Tour venue

Contribution to the development of golf

In 2006 Markus Brier became the first Austrian to win a European Tour event on his home course Fontana Golf Club.

The 2022 Ryder Cup is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Austria, and for our partner nations, to showcase golf in the heart of Europe.

Pa r t n e r N a t i o n s ///

Golf in Austria ///

Austria is a bridge builder

Stunningly beautiful

Building bridges to a wider golfing community and beyond. We pledge to integrate our neighbouring countries into The 2022 Ryder Cup.

To have an inkling of the superb quality and unique features of Austria’s golf courses, you need to have experienced them in person.

The 2022 Ryder Cup is the perfect opportunity to do just that.

Golf in Austria

Golf in Austria

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Delightful variety

A blend of traditional & modern

With its over 170 golf courses amid beautiful and sometimes rugged natural surroundings, Austria is undoubtedly the ultimate golfing destination for every taste and ability level.

In addition to idyllic landscapes, a blend of traditional and modern design and superbly maintained courses, Austria’s first-rate golf hotels provide the ultimate feel-good factor.

Competitive Golf

Competitive Golf

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International hosts for decades

Good Omen

Austria has been the stage for international golf tournaments for decades and the 2022 Ryder Cup would fit seamlessly into its sporting history.

Bernd Wiesberger is the current champion of the Alstom Golf Open de France. A good omen, as this tournament was held at Le Golf National de Paris, the 2018 Ryder Cup host venue.

Building the

Building the

future of golf

future of golf

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///

Hello Juniors

Gold medal for Austria!

Children under 12 play for free at more than two-thirds of Austria’s golf clubs! The positive influence of hosting The 2022 Ryder Cup in Austria would pave the way for implementing the “Hello Juniors” programme nationwide.

Austria has already won gold in the Golf Special Olympics! The positive impact of The 2022 Ryder Cup would greatly aid the integration process.

Our special “Thanks” for outstanding and ongoing support goes to: AUSTRIAN FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

WERNER FAYMANN Federal Chancellor

HANS-JÖRG SCHELLING Federal Minister of Finance

Vice-Chancellor Federal Minister of Science, Research and Economy

REINHOLD MITTERLEHNER

GERALD KLUG

SOPHIE KARMASIN

JOHANNA MIKL-LEITNER

SABINE OBERHAUSER

SEBASTIAN KURZ

GABRIELE HEINISCH-HOSEK

JOSEF OSTERMAYER

WOLFGANG BRANDSTETTER

Federal Minister for Family and Youth

Federal Minister for the Interior

Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs

Federal Minister for Arts and Culture, Constitution and Media

Federal Minister of Sport and Defense

Federal Minister for Health

ALOIS STÖGER

Federal Minister for Education and Women’s Affairs

Federal Minister for Justice

Federal Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology

ANDRÄ RUPPRECHTER

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and W ater Management

RUDOLF HUNDSTORFER

Federal Minister for Labour, Social Affairs and Consumer Protection

MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT

erwin PRÖLL

Governor LOWER AUSTRIA

MICHAEL HÄUPL

Governor & Mayor VIENNA

INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS, SUPPORTERS & FRIENDS

“

This has been written by passionate golf enthusiasts.

We hope that you will enjoy it so much that it entices you to come and play golf in Austria. The best reward for us would be to greet you in Vienna at the 2022 Ryder Cup!

„

Publisher and responsible for content: Austrian Golf Association (ÖGV) |1030 Vienna | Marxergasse 25 | www.golf.at All rights reserved. Any reproduction, either in part or in full, of written or photographic material contained in this publication is prohibited unless permission is given by the publisher.

Concept & Production: Score 54 GmbH | 1060 Vienna | Mariahilfer Strasse 103/27 Project Manager: Thomas Weidinger Writers in alphabetical order (Magazines): Martin Angerer (Perfect Eagle), Robert Green (Golf International), Claudio Honsal (Perfect Eagle), Klaus Nadizar (Golfrevue), Christoph Payer (ExtraGolf & Reisen), Thomas Pisan (Golf Week), Jan-Christoph Poppe (Golfrevue), Ernst Porkristl (ExtraGolf & Reisen), Nina Weidinger (Golf Week), Thomas Weidinger (Perfect Eagle), Sascha Zelenka (Golf Week) Art Director & Graphic Design: KRASA – Büro für Gestaltung, Julia Mehler Photo Editor: Natascha Senegacnik Translations: eurocom Translation Services GmbH | 1030 Vienna Print: Wyndeham Group Company | Print run: 5000 copies Photo cover & last page illustration: Mirja Geh/Friedrich Breidenbach Werbung und Kommunikation GmbH, www.fbwk.at

See you IN 2022 or before in the heart of Europe!

Vienna AUSTRIA