PGA Catalunya Resort, home of Spain’s number one¹ golf course, proved a rigorous test of skill and nerve for players competing in the six-round European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage, 24-29 November 2012.
The 156 hopefuls who teed it up on the acclaimed 36-hole resort encountered an upgraded Stadium Course lengthened to 7,333-yards with seven new championship tees, tougher waterside greens and new bunkers.
But winner John Parry proved that a good golf course rewards good play when his 19-under-par score led home the top 28 players to earn European Tour cards for 2013.
“It is a fantastic golf course – the condition is really great,” said Parry. “I can see why it is ranked so highly in Europe. It’s a lovely layout and because it is tree-lined you can’t just blast a driver off the tee everywhere. It’s a course that makes you think – you have to shape the ball off the tee on the dogleg holes and find the right sides of the greens.”
John Parry added: “I’d rather not come back for Qualifying School, but I would like to come back for a holiday.”
Mike Stewart, European Tour Tournament Director, said: “The new championship tees, narrower fairways and modified greens at the 3rd and 11th on the Stadium Course proved a fine test of skill and nerve.
“Starting out with a field of more than 870 contenders, it is fitting that the Final Stage should be played on a course that sets the standard for European Tour events. You can sense the elation and relief of the 28 who take home their player cards – but you feel for those who have missed out.”
Miguel Girbes, Golf Director at PGA Cataluya Resort, said: “Having hosted Q School Final Stage since 2008, you come to know exactly what the European Tour requires, what the players expect and the operational standards needed to make this event a success.
“From our caddie masters, marshals and green keepers to the 90 volunteer scorers and ball spotters who help make this event what it is, we are proud to play our part in the European Tour.”
Both PGA Catalunya Resort’s acclaimed Stadium and Tour Courses are used during Q School Final Stage, with the Stadium Course hosting the final two rounds.
Mike Stewart added: “The effort, dedication and attention to detail that PGA Catalunya Resort puts into delivering a seamless event every year is commendable. The magnificent setting, professional set-up and impeccable facilities underline its reputation as a world-class golf venue and we look forward to Q School Final Stage returning here in 2013 and 2014.”
¹according to www.top100golfcourses.co.uk
PGA Catalunya Resort www.pgacatalunya.com