Golfers can start training on new course in July
Lao National Golf Federation Vice President, Mr Songkharm Silaphet, confirmed in a press announcement at the SEA Games Golf Club Site Office that golf teams will be able to train on the new golf course in preparation for the games by the end of July.
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A new golf course is being built in Xaythany district for use in the SEA Games in December. |
Players will abide by the rules of the International Golf Federation during the SEA Games competition.
Global Turf Consulting Company Managing Director, Mr Gary Chatfield, a consultant employed to plant grass on the golf course, said two particular challenges had delayed work.
“In the rainy season we had a few delays because the ground was muddy, so heavy machinery was unable to work.”
“The Booyoung Company has made some changes to the layout of the course and the design so that also delayed things a little,” he added.
On the positive side is the fact that normally a new golf course has only immature trees, but this is not the case with this golf course.
“There are some very big trees already here. When it opens it will look like it has already been here for five or ten years,” Mr Chatfield said.
Another reason construction is behind schedule is that clearing of land around the course has been delayed because some people have not yet left their homes to make way for construction.
The Booyoung Company of Korea invested about 50 billion kip (US$5 million) for construction of the 27-hole international standard golf course, which is being built on about 150 hectares of land.
“The golf course will also have a clubhouse, a driving range and a restaurant and I'm sure it will be the first international standard golf course in Laos ,” Mr Songkharm said.
The Lao Golf Federation says the new golf course in Phokham village (km18) in Xaythany district where the SEA Games' golf tournament will take place is now 80 percent complete.
Construction began in January 2008 and the three nine-hole courses will be finished by May, although only two will be used for the SEA Games.
The federation says it will be able to maintain the grass ahead of the games, despite the hot, dry weather.
Golfing events at the games comprise men's and women's singles and men's and women's team events.
“Today, we have 10 golfers in training - 4 females and 6 males - but soon two of them will be cut,” Mr Songkharm said.
“I'd like to ask Lao people to cheer on our teams in all sports and encourage them on to success and medals.”
The federation hopes to get medals in both the men's team and the women's singles events.
By Souriya Meunviseth
March 23, 2009
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