Hosted in the Middle East for the first time, the 6th annual World Golf Awards proved a truly global gathering of the golf tourism industry, with pioneers, influencers and leading figureheads across the world in attendance.
The prize-giving ceremony at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi marked the climax of a three-day itinerary that included golf at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, one of the world’s most captivating golfing projects.
The rapidly-growing golf market of Vietnam was unveiled as one of the big winners, collecting trophies for both ‘Asia’s Best Golf Destination’ and ‘World’s Best Golf Destination’. Meanwhile the rich history and legendary golf of Scotland’s Carnoustie Golf Links – Championship Course was acknowledged with awards for ‘Europe’s Best Golf Course’ and ‘World’s Best Golf Course’.
Golfing icon, Colin Montgomerie, scooped top honors at the World Golf Awards 2019. The Ryder Cup legend was named ‘Golf Course Designer of the Year’ at the golf tourism industry’s event of the year in Abu Dhabi, UAE. He was also the recipient of the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ for his outstanding contribution to golf.
Chris Frost, Managing Director, World Golf Awards, said: “Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi has proven a world-class host on what has been a magnificent evening of triumph for the golf tourism industry. We have had the privilege of recognising the leading golf courses, hotels, resorts, designers and tour operators from across the world and my congratulations to each of them.”
The combination of phenomenal courses and a breath-taking Singapore skyline helped Sentosa Golf Club to the title of ‘World’s Best Golf Club’. Other winners on the night included England’s The Belfry (‘Europe’s Best Golf Hotel’ and ‘World’s Best Golf Hotel’); Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, Saudi Arabia (‘World’s Best Golf Clubhouse’); and Kalhaar Blues & Greens Golf Club (‘India’s Best Golf Course’). Home winners included Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (‘Abu Dhabi’s Best Golf Course’) and Abu Dhabi Golf Club (‘United Arab Emirates’ Best Golf Course’).
The ceremony also saw World Golf Awards welcome Golf Saudi as Presenting Partner. With Saudi Arabia quickly establishing itself as one of the world’s most dynamic new golf markets, the new partnership highlights the ambition of the Kingdom to become an international golf destination.
Majed Al-Sorour, CEO, Golf Saudi, said: “World Golf Awards is one of the game’s pre-eminent accolades and represents core values that align closely with our vision at Golf Saudi – excellence, global connectivity and dedication. As Saudi Arabia’s golf development programme gains momentum, greater integration with the global golf community is allowing us to build relations and develop pioneering initiatives that will determine how we build the game in the Kingdom.”
ftnnews.com is a media partner of World Golf Awards. For the full list of winners, click here
