WALES
"Links in the sky" near Cardiff

by R. Bourne

Cardiff, May 2003 -
Stableford, every golfer knows the name of that scoring system. But how many golfers do know that Dr Frank Stableford introduced it for the first time on Welsh soil at the Glamorganshire Club on September 1898? Football or rugby watchers know Wales and their rough (but fair) national teams supported by thousands of singing fans at Arms Park (now Millenium). But as a golf destination, Wales has just been awarded in 2002 "best undiscovered golf and travel destination".

Incredible! The homeland of Ian Woosnam (twice Masters winner and possible next Captain of the European Ryder Cup Team) had to wait until the year 2002 to be recognized as a golf land and win the Ryder Cup in 2010 at Celtic Manor Resort at Coldra Woods, Newport. So, Roger Pride, Wales Tourist Board Marketing Director, receiving the GTWA award, declared: "This is fantastic news for golf tourism in Wales and proves what we've been saying all along - that Wales is the next big thing in global golf."

Wales which is only 20 720 km² large for a population of 3 million people, has some 200 courses set amidst spectacular scenery; looking out over unspoilt golden bays; walking in the shadow of ancient castles; taking in the sheer poetry of mystic mountain vistas. Wales is an ancient land with a noble history, yet possessing the most modern and luxurious venues.

Anne Harper, President of the Golf Travel Writers' Association, whose members voted for Wales, commented on Wales' award: "When you consider how rich Wales' golfing heritage is, it is surprising it has lain undiscovered for so long. It has its share of wonderful historic and new courses - links, heartland and parkland in stunning locations, with green fees that won't give you a nasty shock."

And according to Peter Walton, Chief Executive of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, Wales' success lies in its ability to offer stress-free golfing: "Whilst golf travel is growing faster than most other tourism sectors, the choice of places to play is expanding even faster. To be successful, golf destinations have to deliver high quality courses at value for money prices, and that is exactly what Wales has done. From the moment you set foot in any one of the many wonderful golf clubs in the country you are made to feel welcome, and being relaxed is the key to enjoying any golfing holiday."

It's certainly why the Wales Tourism Board has chosen a very expressive slogan: "Wales, golf as it should be".
                                                                                       
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Golf on links in the sky,

along the sea or

at Vale of Glamorgan resort