There are several credible reports that Donald Trump is planning to build his first course outside the USA and that the location for what will undoubtedly be a luxury development, possibly including housing, is likely to be in the area around Aberdeen.
The property tycoon already owns golf courses in Florida, New Jersey and California along with his company’s flagship course, the Trump National Golf Club, at Briarcliff Manor, New York.
Trump’s mother was born in Scotland and he has a strong affection for her homeland as well as for the game of golf. The international profile of Aberdeen as a golfing destination received a considerable boost when the British Seniors Open was played at Royal Aberdeen last year and won by Tom Watson. www.royalaberdeen.com
It is understood that Mr Trump met Jack McConnell, the First Minister of Scotland, at Trump Tower in Manhattan last October and indicated that he wished to build a course as part of a leisure development in Scotland, although no site has yet been confirmed.
The news has been no surprise to Jacky Selway, business tourism manager of Aberdeen Convention Bureau.
“Golf has an extremely important role to play in business tourism in the north east,” comments Jacky. “It already attracts both British and American business people to events being held in Scotland. Recent research has shown that golf is becoming increasingly popular in Germany and Sweden. The availability of high profile golfing facilities outside St Andrews and Gleneagles could be a determining factor in attracting business tourism to the north east.
“Top calibre business people will select this resort if it goes ahead as it will offer the highest standards of customer care. In short, a US customer experience with the charm and prestige of Scotland which delivers accessibility as well as exclusivity.
“The north east is a logical choice for the site of an exclusive golfing complex; Aberdeen can offer the seamless logistics which are appreciated by the discerning golfer. We have excellent transport connections with the rest of the UK and beyond, meaning that Aberdeen is only a short flight from London. In addition, we have first-rate hotels which would be able to accommodate conferences and business meetings – as well as the golfers after a day on the links. With a sixth of overseas business trips from the USA having Scotland as their destination Mr Trump’s course could easily appeal to his fellow countrymen.”
Trump Golf www.trumpgolf.com
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