The region has come a long way since Sir Henry Cotton designed the course at Penina in 1966
By Martin Inglis
The Algarve is marking 50 years of golf this year and, to celebrate, it is offering you the chance to win 50 green fees to use throughout the 2017 season.
Starting in June, all of the Algarve’s top courses will feature specially-commissioned commemorative golden tee markers to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the opening of the sun-drenched region’s first course - Penina - in 1966.
MILESTONE
Each visiting golfer will be invited to play their part in marking the milestone by playing from the new golden tees at the various layouts, before getting the chance to register their details on a dedicated website for an opportunity to win the 50 green fees.
Upon the conclusion of the promotion, one lucky winner chosen at random to enjoy free golf.
The president of the Algarve Tourism Association, Carlos Luis, said: ìWe are honoured to be able to mark the 50th anniversary of golf in the Algarve and hope golfers will be part of the celebrations with us.
ìIt’s just another perfect reason for golfers to visit us in 2016 as the Algarve golf industry continues to provide the very best in hospitality, accommodation and golf venues with great value and diversity.î
QUALITY
Since Henry Cotton paved the way with his debut design and those first shots were struck at Penina, the quality and diversity of the courses on the Algarve have become the envy of the rest of the world.
Record green fee numbers were reported in 2015, with over 1.2million rounds played, and the early indications are that 2016 is set to continue on a similar path.
Keith Pelley, chief executive of the European Tour, added: “The Algarve continues to be a terrific backdrop for tournament golf.”
