Troon Golf has been selected to manage golf operations at Astbury Hall in Shropshire, England. Joining an impressive UK portfolio including Prince’s Golf Club, Turnberry Resort and The Grove, Astbury Hall has a distinctive story behind its development as the brain child of K.K.Downing, the lead guitarist of critically acclaimed Heavy Metal band, Judas Priest.
Sitting on 350 acres of traditional English countryside in the heart of Shropshire, the course which opened nine holes to the general public earlier this year plans to open the remaining nine in mid-September 2010, which will complete K.K. Downing’s first-ever course design.
Combining natural features, tactically placed bunkers and beautifully manicured playing surfaces that have been subtly contoured to USGA standards, the course is aimed at testing golfers of all ability.
“This is one of the great stories in golf. It not only highlights K.K. Downing’s extraordinary achievement in personally designing such a remarkable course, but it captures the very essence of golf’s universal appeal. We are delighted to have been selected to take on such a unique and character filled property and marks another significant milestone for Troon Golf’s growing UK presence,” commented Bruce Glasco, Managing Director Troon Golf Europe, Middle East & Africa.
Downing is regarded as a true icon in the music industry as part of the Grammy award winning heavy metal band. Judas Priest secured a series of global hits and is no surprise that Astbury Hall has already caught the attention of the media. As awareness of the property grows and the course and accommodation establish themselves even further, interest is expected from far and wide.
“Astbury Hall has been born from my experiences on golf courses from around the World. I am fortunate enough to have played some of the finest the world has to offer and I feel privileged to have been able to create a property that encompasses all my cherished experiences,” commented K.K.Downing. “I have been lucky to work in two industries that have allowed me to be so creative, especially golf course architecture, which has enabled the visions in my head to be transformed beautifully into a reality.”
Astbury Hall will also boast a series of exclusive lodges and barn conversions in several different designs that will enhance its appeal. With the highest standards set for customer service and quality throughout its amenities, coupled with the idyllic setting, Astbury Hall is well on its way to becoming one of the most highly regarded leisure attractions in the UK.
Astbury Hall www.AstburyHall.co.uk
Troon Golf www.troongolf.com
K.K.Downing www.kkdowning.net