Ian Knox – Director of Golf, The Belfry; Coley Brenan – Principal, KSL Capital Partners; Sandy Jones – Chief Executive, The PGA; Bernard Gallacher OBE; Ian Woosnam OBE; Lynn Hood – Managing Director, The Belfry; Todd Shallan – Portfolio Manager, KSL Capital Partners; Matt Gaghen – Portfolio Manager, KSL Capital Partners
The Belfry has long been seen as one of the world’s most iconic golf resorts having hosted the prestigious Ryder Cup matches on no fewer than four occasions. The 1st May 2014 saw the legendary resort elevated once again as a world-class business, leisure and golf destination, having been re-launched in style following a comprehensive £26 million refurbishment programme. To mark the official re-opening, The new Belfry hosted an exclusive event for sports stars, key industry figures and corporate clients with Ryder Cup legends Ian Woosnam OBE and Bernard Gallacher OBE in attendance, providing a unique insight into their golfing experiences, and reliving some of the resort’s most historic Ryder Cup moments.
The welcoming lobby at The new Belfry
The world’s only four-time Ryder Cup venue, The Belfry’s Brabazon course, was at the heart of celebrations with 100 guests testing their skills on the iconic Dave Thomas and Peter Alliss design. Having Captained and competed in the legendary matches at The Belfry, Ian Woosnam and Bernard Gallacher have great experiences of the famous resort, and were on-hand during the day to share their experiences in a unique Ryder Cup Q&A. “I have been involved in three Ryder Cups at The Belfry over the years, and have some fantastic memories of playing here; when you hear about The Belfry, you immediately think of the Ryder Cup,” commented Gallacher. “The changes that have been made with the recent refurbishment are stunning, and I am delighted to see that the Ryder Cup links are recognised across the whole resort.”
Managing Director of The Belfry, Lynn Hood, spoke of her delight about the launch event’s success, “This is a proud moment for all of those who have been involved in this refurbishment process, which started in April 2013. The events today are the result of all the hard work and dedication of our fantastic team, and it was great to have so many influential individuals and guests here to celebrate this moment with us. We have a fantastic history and heritage from some of the most memorable moments in Ryder Cup history, and we are looking forward to creating memorable moments and experiences for our guests when they come to enjoy the new facilities. The investment has completely transformed the resort and puts it back on the map not only as a golfing mecca, but also as an outstanding destination for business and relaxation.”
In the evening, guests were treated to the finest hospitality and cuisine, which are at the heart of The Belfry’s stunning new bar and restaurants. A range of drinks and cocktails were provided in the stylish Brabazon Bar, before guests moved through to the modern dining experiences of The Ryder Grill, to experience the culinary delights of award-winning Chef Director, Glen Watson. The evening was rounded off by an entertainment extravaganza in the newly refurbished Bel-Air, before returning to the comfort and luxury of the newly refurbished bedrooms.
The Belfry www.TheBelfry.co.uk