News from the Celtic Manor Resort http://www.celtic-manor.com/media.aspx en-gb Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:01:54 +00:00 VSI-Thinking 2012 VSI-Thinking CMS info@vsi-thinking.com
Played over the same Twenty Ten Course as the dramatic 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor, the ISPS Handa Wales Open is sure to attract many of the stars bidding to play their way into this year’s European team to face the Americans in Chicago.

By booking before the end of February, golf fans wishing to secure their place in the galleries at Celtic Manor this summer can make significant savings. An adult ticket for a full day’s play will cost £30 on the gate but is available until February 29 at a special rate of just £21. A season ticket to see all four days is only £47 (£65 on the gate).

There are further discounts for Seniors over 60 while children under 16 go free when accompanied by an adult for the tournament which runs from May 31-June 3.

For those wishing to make it a really special occasion or to entertain clients, a full day’s VIP hospitality is also available. From just £200, plus VAT, hospitality tickets include morning coffee and pastries on arrival, a four-course lunch with wine, afternoon tea, a complimentary bar all day and TV screens to watch the tournament action.

Celtic Manor Resort Chief Executive Dylan Matthews said: “This year’s ISPS Handa Wales Open promises to be another fantastic event as we welcome on board our new title sponsor.

“With a first prize of £300,000 and a total purse of £1.8m, we know many of the European Tour’s leading players will be vying for the Ryder Cup qualifying points on offer.

“The dramatic conclusion to the last Ryder Cup here at Celtic Manor is still fresh in the memory and this is another great opportunity for sports fans to see more top-class golf on the spectacular Twenty Ten Course.”

Past winners of the tournament have included Ryder Cup stars Graeme McDowell, Robert Karlsson, Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ian Poulter, Paul Lawrie and Paul McGinley.

Last year, Alexander Noren triumphed by two strokes before going on to claim the Nordea Masters in his native Sweden and finishing 14th in the 2011 Race to Dubai.

As well as top-class golfing action, the tournament offers a great day out for all the family with a tented village including bar, food outlets, shops selling golf merchandise and opportunities for youngsters to try their hand at golf.

ISPS (International Sports Promotion Society) was founded by Japanese philanthropist, Dr Haruhisa Handa, in 2006 and has fostered partnerships with golf governing bodies worldwide to help develop the game at every level and promote blind and disabled golf.

Early Bird prices - available until 29th February 2012

Adults: Daily £21 / Season £47
Seniors: Daily £11 / Season £32
Under 16s: free when accompanied by a full paying adult or senior.

Please note a booking fee of £1.50 applies to each order.

Book Online Now

]]> To celebrate its new title sponsor for 2012, the ISPS Handa Wales Open is offering special reductions on tournament admission for fans who snap up their tickets early.

Played over the same Twenty Ten Course as the dramatic 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor, the ISPS Handa Wales Open is sure to attract many of the stars bidding to play their way into this year’s European team to face the Americans in Chicago.

By booking before the end of February, golf fans wishing to secure their place in the galleries at Celtic Manor this summer can make significant savings. An adult ticket for a full day’s play will cost £30 on the gate but is available until February 29 at a special rate of just £21. A season ticket to see all four days is only £47 (£65 on the gate).

There are further discounts for Seniors over 60 while children under 16 go free when accompanied by an adult for the tournament which runs from May 31-June 3.

For those wishing to make it a really special occasion or to entertain clients, a full day’s VIP hospitality is also available. From just £200, plus VAT, hospitality tickets include morning coffee and pastries on arrival, a four-course lunch with wine, afternoon tea, a complimentary bar all day and TV screens to watch the tournament action.

Celtic Manor Resort Chief Executive Dylan Matthews said: “This year’s ISPS Handa Wales Open promises to be another fantastic event as we welcome on board our new title sponsor.

“With a first prize of £300,000 and a total purse of £1.8m, we know many of the European Tour’s leading players will be vying for the Ryder Cup qualifying points on offer.

“The dramatic conclusion to the last Ryder Cup here at Celtic Manor is still fresh in the memory and this is another great opportunity for sports fans to see more top-class golf on the spectacular Twenty Ten Course.”

Past winners of the tournament have included Ryder Cup stars Graeme McDowell, Robert Karlsson, Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ian Poulter, Paul Lawrie and Paul McGinley.

Last year, Alexander Noren triumphed by two strokes before going on to claim the Nordea Masters in his native Sweden and finishing 14th in the 2011 Race to Dubai.

As well as top-class golfing action, the tournament offers a great day out for all the family with a tented village including bar, food outlets, shops selling golf merchandise and opportunities for youngsters to try their hand at golf.

ISPS (International Sports Promotion Society) was founded by Japanese philanthropist, Dr Haruhisa Handa, in 2006 and has fostered partnerships with golf governing bodies worldwide to help develop the game at every level and promote blind and disabled golf.

Early Bird prices - available until 29th February 2012

Adults: Daily £21 / Season £47
Seniors: Daily £11 / Season £32
Under 16s: free when accompanied by a full paying adult or senior.

Please note a booking fee of £1.50 applies to each order.

Book Online Now

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:01:54 +00:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=0
Celtic Manor was voted into first place in both Welsh categories – best golf course and best hotel/resort – in the awards run by the UK’s best selling golf magazine, in association with Your Golf Travel.

The resort’s Twenty Ten Course polled 53 per cent of the vote for best golf course in Wales, beating the celebrated links courses at Royal Porthcawl (15 per cent) and Royal St David’s, Harlech (11 per cent) into second and third place respectively. In the hotel/resort section, Celtic Manor took a massive 80 per cent of the poll with Marriott St Pierre (11 per cent) second and The Vale (7 per cent) third.

The awards came hot on the heels of further Celtic Manor recognition when it was named the Readers’ Choice for best UK golf club in the Club Mirror awards. On that occasion, it beat off competition from a shortlist of four other prestigious clubs – Sunningdale, Wentworth Club, Royal Birkdale and Gleneagles.

Celtic Manor Director of Golf and Leisure Matthew Lewis said: “It’s always pleasing to win awards but it’s particularly satisfying that these awards have been voted for by readers.

“We enjoyed a record year for numbers of visiting golfers in 2011 and the fact they have chosen us for these accolades is the finest endorsement we can get, particularly when you look at the quality of the other clubs and venues in the running.”

Shortly after hosting a Ryder Cup finale described as the “greatest ever” in 2010, The Celtic Manor Resort was named Europe’s Golf Resort of the Year for 2011 and the UK’s Sport Venue of the Year. The latest awards show that the Ryder Cup legacy is continuing to keep the South Wales venue firmly in the spotlight.

The Twenty Ten Course which provided such a dramatic stage for Europe’s nail-biting victory over the Americans continues to host the ISPS Handa Wales Open on the European Tour, which takes place this year from May 31-June 3.

For more information or to book your next round or golf trip, visit our golf section or call Reservations on 01633 410263.

]]> The Celtic Manor Resort is celebrating a double success after dominating the Wales regional section in the inaugural Today’s Golfer travel awards.

Celtic Manor was voted into first place in both Welsh categories – best golf course and best hotel/resort – in the awards run by the UK’s best selling golf magazine, in association with Your Golf Travel.

The resort’s Twenty Ten Course polled 53 per cent of the vote for best golf course in Wales, beating the celebrated links courses at Royal Porthcawl (15 per cent) and Royal St David’s, Harlech (11 per cent) into second and third place respectively. In the hotel/resort section, Celtic Manor took a massive 80 per cent of the poll with Marriott St Pierre (11 per cent) second and The Vale (7 per cent) third.

The awards came hot on the heels of further Celtic Manor recognition when it was named the Readers’ Choice for best UK golf club in the Club Mirror awards. On that occasion, it beat off competition from a shortlist of four other prestigious clubs – Sunningdale, Wentworth Club, Royal Birkdale and Gleneagles.

Celtic Manor Director of Golf and Leisure Matthew Lewis said: “It’s always pleasing to win awards but it’s particularly satisfying that these awards have been voted for by readers.

“We enjoyed a record year for numbers of visiting golfers in 2011 and the fact they have chosen us for these accolades is the finest endorsement we can get, particularly when you look at the quality of the other clubs and venues in the running.”

Shortly after hosting a Ryder Cup finale described as the “greatest ever” in 2010, The Celtic Manor Resort was named Europe’s Golf Resort of the Year for 2011 and the UK’s Sport Venue of the Year. The latest awards show that the Ryder Cup legacy is continuing to keep the South Wales venue firmly in the spotlight.

The Twenty Ten Course which provided such a dramatic stage for Europe’s nail-biting victory over the Americans continues to host the ISPS Handa Wales Open on the European Tour, which takes place this year from May 31-June 3.

For more information or to book your next round or golf trip, visit our golf section or call Reservations on 01633 410263.

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:01:44 +00:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=1
The masterclass at 2pm GMT will be streamed live on the Golfing World website. Tune in here www.golfingworld.tv/live

Dale, a Cleveland short game ambassador, will be demonstrating his golf tricks and providing some tips on how to improve your golf game.

He's also inviting your questions so if there's something bugging your game at the moment, or you'd like to know how he performs certain tricks, ask your questions on Twitter or Facebook and he will answer them live on the day.

The best question posed to @TheCelticManor or www.facebook.com/CelticManor  will win an overnight stay for two people sharing a room and a twoball on the Roman Road course.

You can also join in the conversation on Twitter @Golfingworldtv using the #GWlive hashtag.

For more details of the event visit http://www.golfingworld.tv/en/news/2011/december/05/the-golfing-world-live-instructional

; ]]> Renowned golf trick show artist Jeremy Dale will run through his impressive repertoire in a Live Trick Show and Instructional Masterclass at Celtic Manor on Tuesday 13th December.

The masterclass at 2pm GMT will be streamed live on the Golfing World website. Tune in here www.golfingworld.tv/live

Dale, a Cleveland short game ambassador, will be demonstrating his golf tricks and providing some tips on how to improve your golf game.

He's also inviting your questions so if there's something bugging your game at the moment, or you'd like to know how he performs certain tricks, ask your questions on Twitter or Facebook and he will answer them live on the day.

The best question posed to @TheCelticManor or www.facebook.com/CelticManor  will win an overnight stay for two people sharing a room and a twoball on the Roman Road course.

You can also join in the conversation on Twitter @Golfingworldtv using the #GWlive hashtag.

For more details of the event visit http://www.golfingworld.tv/en/news/2011/december/05/the-golfing-world-live-instructional

; Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:00:03 +00:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=2
Chaired by Japanese businessman and philanthropist Dr Haruhisa Handa, ISPS supports the International Blind Golf Association (IBGA) and will be raising the profile of blind and disabled golf through its association with the ISPS Handa Wales Open and other golf tournaments around the world.

The 2012 ISPS Handa Wales Open from May 31 - June 3 will be ISPS’s first European Tour event following successful sponsorships of tournaments on the European Senior Tour, Ladies European Tour, Asian Tour, Japanese Golf Tour Organisation, PGA of Japan Seniors Tour, Australian PGA and Legends Tour.

ISPS Chairman Dr Handa said: “ISPS is delighted to become title sponsor of our first European Tour event. The Celtic Manor Resort is a fantastic venue and we are looking forward to working with them on hosting the ISPS Handa Wales Open over the historic Twenty Ten Course for the next three years.

“ISPS is committed to raising the profile of blind and disabled golf throughout the world, having established the International Blind Golf Association (IBGA) in 1998. We believe the ISPS Handa Wales Open offers a great platform from which to promote our mission for golf to become a Paralympic sport.”

Welcoming the sponsorship at The Celtic Manor Resort today (Monday) was Paul McGinley, who claimed one of his four European Tour victories at Celtic Manor and was a vice-captain of the victorious European 2010 Ryder Cup team at the venue. McGinley said: “It is always a personal pleasure to return to Celtic Manor, the scene of some of my happiest memories in golf and I am very happy to be here to welcome ISPS as title sponsor of the ISPS Handa Wales Open. On behalf of European Tour players, we look forward to working with them and supporting them in raising the profile of blind and disabled golf.”

With a prize fund of £1.8m and staged on the Twenty Ten Course which hosted such a memorable Ryder Cup in 2010, the ISPS Handa Wales Open has grown into one of the most established golf events in Europe.

Celtic Manor Resort Chief Executive Dylan Matthews said: “We are delighted to welcome ISPS on board as the title sponsor of the ISPS Handa Wales Open.

“It is fantastic news that we are now able to secure the future of the tournament and raise its profile to an even higher level with this ground-breaking three-year partnership.

“It also gives us great pleasure to work with an organisation that does such valuable work in taking golf to new audiences, particularly increasing participation in blind and disabled golf across the world.”

The agreement between The Celtic Manor Resort, which continues to act as the event host and promoter, and ISPS was brokered by WSM Communications.

Andrew White, Chief Executive of WSM Communications said: “The ISPS Handa Wales Open represents a great opportunity for ISPS to raise the profile of blind and disabled golf on European golf’s elite stage for the first time. We were delighted to be able to create this partnership with The Celtic Manor Resort.”

Keith Waters, Chief Operating Officer and Director of International Policy of The European Tour, said: “We have developed a strong partnership with ISPS on the European Senior Tour and we are now delighted to welcome Dr Handa to The European Tour International Schedule through their title sponsorship of the ISPS Handa Wales Open.

“The tournament has grown in stature since its inception in 2000 and our Members will look forward to continuing their association with Sir Terry Matthews, and the event he made possible with his vision and commitment, in addition to playing the highly acclaimed Twenty Ten Course.”

Dr Handa has more than 25 years involvement in golf around the world at varying levels of the game. He is International Ambassador to the Asian Tour and the Ladies European Tour. He is also Patron of Golf Australia alongside Greg Norman and Honorary Chairman of the Legends Tour. ISPS is a Major Partner of Faldo Series Asia, Nick Faldo’s golf development programme.

Occupying a prime early summer slot in The European Tour International Schedule, immediately after the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club, the ISPS Handa Wales Open has been staged at The Celtic Manor Resort since its inception in 2000.

Many of The European Tour’s biggest names have graced the tournament during its 12-year history. Reigning champion Alexander Noren also claimed the 2011 Nordea Masters in his native Sweden, while 2010 winner McDowell went on to capture the US Open two weeks after his triumph at Celtic Manor.

Tickets for the ISPS Handa Wales Open are available at an early bird price of £21 adult daily and £47 adult season until 29th February 2012. For tickets and further information, visit www.ispshandawalesopen.com

]]> The three-year sponsorship deal with ISPS launches an exciting new chapter in the history of the tournament which counts Ryder Cup stars Paul McGinley, Paul Lawrie, Ian Poulter, Miguel Angel Jimenéz, Robert Karlsson and Graeme McDowell among its former champions.

Chaired by Japanese businessman and philanthropist Dr Haruhisa Handa, ISPS supports the International Blind Golf Association (IBGA) and will be raising the profile of blind and disabled golf through its association with the ISPS Handa Wales Open and other golf tournaments around the world.

The 2012 ISPS Handa Wales Open from May 31 - June 3 will be ISPS’s first European Tour event following successful sponsorships of tournaments on the European Senior Tour, Ladies European Tour, Asian Tour, Japanese Golf Tour Organisation, PGA of Japan Seniors Tour, Australian PGA and Legends Tour.

ISPS Chairman Dr Handa said: “ISPS is delighted to become title sponsor of our first European Tour event. The Celtic Manor Resort is a fantastic venue and we are looking forward to working with them on hosting the ISPS Handa Wales Open over the historic Twenty Ten Course for the next three years.

“ISPS is committed to raising the profile of blind and disabled golf throughout the world, having established the International Blind Golf Association (IBGA) in 1998. We believe the ISPS Handa Wales Open offers a great platform from which to promote our mission for golf to become a Paralympic sport.”

Welcoming the sponsorship at The Celtic Manor Resort today (Monday) was Paul McGinley, who claimed one of his four European Tour victories at Celtic Manor and was a vice-captain of the victorious European 2010 Ryder Cup team at the venue. McGinley said: “It is always a personal pleasure to return to Celtic Manor, the scene of some of my happiest memories in golf and I am very happy to be here to welcome ISPS as title sponsor of the ISPS Handa Wales Open. On behalf of European Tour players, we look forward to working with them and supporting them in raising the profile of blind and disabled golf.”

With a prize fund of £1.8m and staged on the Twenty Ten Course which hosted such a memorable Ryder Cup in 2010, the ISPS Handa Wales Open has grown into one of the most established golf events in Europe.

Celtic Manor Resort Chief Executive Dylan Matthews said: “We are delighted to welcome ISPS on board as the title sponsor of the ISPS Handa Wales Open.

“It is fantastic news that we are now able to secure the future of the tournament and raise its profile to an even higher level with this ground-breaking three-year partnership.

“It also gives us great pleasure to work with an organisation that does such valuable work in taking golf to new audiences, particularly increasing participation in blind and disabled golf across the world.”

The agreement between The Celtic Manor Resort, which continues to act as the event host and promoter, and ISPS was brokered by WSM Communications.

Andrew White, Chief Executive of WSM Communications said: “The ISPS Handa Wales Open represents a great opportunity for ISPS to raise the profile of blind and disabled golf on European golf’s elite stage for the first time. We were delighted to be able to create this partnership with The Celtic Manor Resort.”

Keith Waters, Chief Operating Officer and Director of International Policy of The European Tour, said: “We have developed a strong partnership with ISPS on the European Senior Tour and we are now delighted to welcome Dr Handa to The European Tour International Schedule through their title sponsorship of the ISPS Handa Wales Open.

“The tournament has grown in stature since its inception in 2000 and our Members will look forward to continuing their association with Sir Terry Matthews, and the event he made possible with his vision and commitment, in addition to playing the highly acclaimed Twenty Ten Course.”

Dr Handa has more than 25 years involvement in golf around the world at varying levels of the game. He is International Ambassador to the Asian Tour and the Ladies European Tour. He is also Patron of Golf Australia alongside Greg Norman and Honorary Chairman of the Legends Tour. ISPS is a Major Partner of Faldo Series Asia, Nick Faldo’s golf development programme.

Occupying a prime early summer slot in The European Tour International Schedule, immediately after the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club, the ISPS Handa Wales Open has been staged at The Celtic Manor Resort since its inception in 2000.

Many of The European Tour’s biggest names have graced the tournament during its 12-year history. Reigning champion Alexander Noren also claimed the 2011 Nordea Masters in his native Sweden, while 2010 winner McDowell went on to capture the US Open two weeks after his triumph at Celtic Manor.

Tickets for the ISPS Handa Wales Open are available at an early bird price of £21 adult daily and £47 adult season until 29th February 2012. For tickets and further information, visit www.ispshandawalesopen.com

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:47:05 +00:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=3
Scored on precision, speed and teamwork, the Kill family collected the most points over four rounds to win a two-night luxury stay in a two-bedroom suite at The Celtic Manor Resort.

“The hardest part was crossing the rope loops holding a beaker of water each during the Aqua Challenge, but our teamwork paid off in the end when we collected enough water to come second in that round,” said Hannah Fox, aged 13.

The winning family were also second in the opening Target Challenge and then flew around the low ropes course in 4 minutes 14 seconds to win the Speed Challenge. But they were caught and then overhauled at the top of the leaderboard when both the Stannard and Griffiths families secured their hoop bonuses in the final round.

In a thrilling finish, Hannah successfully delivered the ball into the hoop held by dad Nigel to add their own 10 bonus points and finish with a remarkable 36 points out of a possible 40.

Celtic Manor’s search for Wales’ Ultimate Family invited entries from all over Wales and the five finalist families enjoyed an overnight stay at The Celtic Manor Resort for reaching that stage of the competition.

Details of our search for Wales’ Ultimate Family 2012 will be announced shortly.

]]> The Kill family from Raglan has been crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family after winning the inaugural final challenge on the Forest Jump course.

Scored on precision, speed and teamwork, the Kill family collected the most points over four rounds to win a two-night luxury stay in a two-bedroom suite at The Celtic Manor Resort.

“The hardest part was crossing the rope loops holding a beaker of water each during the Aqua Challenge, but our teamwork paid off in the end when we collected enough water to come second in that round,” said Hannah Fox, aged 13.

The winning family were also second in the opening Target Challenge and then flew around the low ropes course in 4 minutes 14 seconds to win the Speed Challenge. But they were caught and then overhauled at the top of the leaderboard when both the Stannard and Griffiths families secured their hoop bonuses in the final round.

In a thrilling finish, Hannah successfully delivered the ball into the hoop held by dad Nigel to add their own 10 bonus points and finish with a remarkable 36 points out of a possible 40.

Celtic Manor’s search for Wales’ Ultimate Family invited entries from all over Wales and the five finalist families enjoyed an overnight stay at The Celtic Manor Resort for reaching that stage of the competition.

Details of our search for Wales’ Ultimate Family 2012 will be announced shortly.

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:23:31 +00:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=4
This network ensures that serious golfers around the world can access a Titleist club fitting service and underlines Titleist’s philosophy of ‘Better Fit. Better Game.’ Building on the success of Titleist’s National Fitting Centres in the UK and Ireland, at St. Ives Golf Club in Cambridgeshire, Kings Acre Golf Club near Edinburgh and the G.U.I National Academy at Carton House near Dublin, Titleist is further expanding its fitting network with the announcement of a National Fitting Centre based at The Celtic Manor Resort in South Wales.

Opening to the public on October 31st, the new facility will be run by Celtic Manor’s highly-trained teaching professionals who will provide guests with the same fitting processes, equipment and technology that have helped the likes of Titleist Brand Ambassadors Rory McIlroy, Matteo Manassero and Adam Scott claim victories across the worldwide professional tours this year.

“The introduction of a Titleist National Fitting Centre at The Celtic Manor Resort is a hugely exciting addition to our club fitting network. Celtic Manor is a world renowned golf destination and we are hugely proud of our association and delighted to be opening our latest National Fitting Centre at this superb venue.” commented Richard Temple, Titleist Golf Club Product and Fitting Manager. “The PGA qualified Fitting Technicians at Celtic Manor have been trained by experts in the field of club fitting, including master wedge craftsman Bob Vokey, and their knowledge, coupled with the technology at their disposal, will ensure that each and every visitor to the new facility will experience the benefits of professionally fitted Titleist golf club products,” continued Temple.

Each of the Titleist National Fitting Centres are fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology, an extensive range of the latest Titleist club product, including the 910 metals, 712 series irons and SM4 wedges, and array of shaft options. Each fitting for a 910 metal benefits from the innovative SureFit Tour technology, which allows for independent loft and lie adjustment, while fittings for the new 712 series irons, due for launch in mid-November, use an equally innovative, dual-angle SureFit hosel system that allows both interchangeable heads and shafts and for two different lie angles to be achieved from a single club-head. Such Titleist-developed fitting technology helps to ensure a precise and efficient club fitting service for the player. Club fittings at the Titleist National Fitting Centres also utilise Trackman Pro™ launch monitors, which use radar technology to provide a complete statistical analysis of each shot. Trackman Pro™ has the capacity to analyse the club at impact, the ball flight down range and provide a whole host of invaluable statistics that the Titleist fitters can use to determine the ideal club specification for the player.

A host of Titleist Brand Ambassadors have demonstrated the Titleist ‘Better Fit. Better Game.’ philosophy in recent weeks having used precisely fit Titleist club products for tournament success across the worldwide professional tours. Rickie Fowler, Kevin Na, Bryce Molder, Michael Hoey and Lee Slattery are just some of the full-line Titleist players to have topped leaderboards with Titleist products and, most recently, Ben Crane trusted Titleist equipment throughout his bag to win the PGA Tour’s McGladrey Classic and become the sixteenth different Titleist Ambassador to claim victory on the PGA Tour in 2011. Proof not only of the quality and performance of Titleist products but also a clear indication as to the importance of correctly fitted golf club product.

Bookings for the Titleist National Fitting Centre at The Celtic Manor Resort are available on an appointment only basis on Mondays and Thursdays.

More on The Academy at Celtic Manor

]]> As a market-leader in custom-fitting, Titleist utilises golf’s most advanced fitting tools and teams of highly-skilled fitters to provide a global network of club fitting services.

This network ensures that serious golfers around the world can access a Titleist club fitting service and underlines Titleist’s philosophy of ‘Better Fit. Better Game.’ Building on the success of Titleist’s National Fitting Centres in the UK and Ireland, at St. Ives Golf Club in Cambridgeshire, Kings Acre Golf Club near Edinburgh and the G.U.I National Academy at Carton House near Dublin, Titleist is further expanding its fitting network with the announcement of a National Fitting Centre based at The Celtic Manor Resort in South Wales.

Opening to the public on October 31st, the new facility will be run by Celtic Manor’s highly-trained teaching professionals who will provide guests with the same fitting processes, equipment and technology that have helped the likes of Titleist Brand Ambassadors Rory McIlroy, Matteo Manassero and Adam Scott claim victories across the worldwide professional tours this year.

“The introduction of a Titleist National Fitting Centre at The Celtic Manor Resort is a hugely exciting addition to our club fitting network. Celtic Manor is a world renowned golf destination and we are hugely proud of our association and delighted to be opening our latest National Fitting Centre at this superb venue.” commented Richard Temple, Titleist Golf Club Product and Fitting Manager. “The PGA qualified Fitting Technicians at Celtic Manor have been trained by experts in the field of club fitting, including master wedge craftsman Bob Vokey, and their knowledge, coupled with the technology at their disposal, will ensure that each and every visitor to the new facility will experience the benefits of professionally fitted Titleist golf club products,” continued Temple.

Each of the Titleist National Fitting Centres are fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology, an extensive range of the latest Titleist club product, including the 910 metals, 712 series irons and SM4 wedges, and array of shaft options. Each fitting for a 910 metal benefits from the innovative SureFit Tour technology, which allows for independent loft and lie adjustment, while fittings for the new 712 series irons, due for launch in mid-November, use an equally innovative, dual-angle SureFit hosel system that allows both interchangeable heads and shafts and for two different lie angles to be achieved from a single club-head. Such Titleist-developed fitting technology helps to ensure a precise and efficient club fitting service for the player. Club fittings at the Titleist National Fitting Centres also utilise Trackman Pro™ launch monitors, which use radar technology to provide a complete statistical analysis of each shot. Trackman Pro™ has the capacity to analyse the club at impact, the ball flight down range and provide a whole host of invaluable statistics that the Titleist fitters can use to determine the ideal club specification for the player.

A host of Titleist Brand Ambassadors have demonstrated the Titleist ‘Better Fit. Better Game.’ philosophy in recent weeks having used precisely fit Titleist club products for tournament success across the worldwide professional tours. Rickie Fowler, Kevin Na, Bryce Molder, Michael Hoey and Lee Slattery are just some of the full-line Titleist players to have topped leaderboards with Titleist products and, most recently, Ben Crane trusted Titleist equipment throughout his bag to win the PGA Tour’s McGladrey Classic and become the sixteenth different Titleist Ambassador to claim victory on the PGA Tour in 2011. Proof not only of the quality and performance of Titleist products but also a clear indication as to the importance of correctly fitted golf club product.

Bookings for the Titleist National Fitting Centre at The Celtic Manor Resort are available on an appointment only basis on Mondays and Thursdays.

More on The Academy at Celtic Manor

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:03:55 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=5
The five-star resort in South Wales topped the poll once again in Conference & Incentive Travel magazine’s prestigious Hot List Awards.

The Gold Award caps another momentous year for the venue which hosted such a memorable Ryder Cup in 2010. The venue beat off some strong competition for the prize with London’s Savoy Hotel taking the silver award and The Grove in Hertfordshire claiming bronze.

Celtic Manor had already in 2011 been named Europe’s Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators; UK Sport Venue of the Year at the Sport Industry Awards; and Best UK Hotel at the Meetings & Incentive Travel Awards.

With 400 bedrooms in two hotels, a large and versatile convention centre, three championship golf courses, five restaurants, a separate country inn, two luxurious spas and health clubs and a host of other leisure activities, The Celtic Manor Resort occupies a unique position in the marketplace.

Its recent succession of top awards has not prevented the resort from improving its conference facilities this year with new digital signage and a breakout lounge for lunch and refreshments.

The resort has also further enhanced its offering to corporate clients in 2011 with the opening of new treetop high ropes and adventure golf activities, which are ideal for team-building exercises.

Celtic Manor Chief Operating Officer Ian Edwards said: “We are delighted to receive this prestigious award, confirming our position as the best conference hotel in the UK.

“It is particularly satisfying that this comes as the result of a reader poll conducted with the industry experts, who are our clients. For them to vote for us to receive this award five years in a row is something we are very proud of.

“Having just celebrated the first anniversary of a Ryder Cup which many described as the greatest ever, it is very reassuring to know that we are still more than meeting the expectations of our customers and winning prestigious awards like this one.

“The award is a reflection not only of the excellent facilities at The Celtic Manor Resort but also the dedication to customer service of our entire staff.”

The resort’s convention centre – one of the largest hotel facilities of its kind in Europe – houses the Caernarfon Suite which can seat 1,500 delegates for a keynote lecture or 900 dining guests for a gala dinner. An additional 31 syndicate and meeting rooms with break-out areas can cater for every event from a small meeting around a table to large presentations for hundreds of people.

Celtic Manor offers an abundance of other meeting spaces including its latest addition – The Newbridge on Usk, an idyllic, riverside country inn with six bedrooms – and leisure incentives include the spectacular Twenty Ten Course and the luxurious Forum Spa.

]]> The Celtic Manor Resort has been voted the UK’s Best Conference Hotel for the fifth year running by industry experts.

The five-star resort in South Wales topped the poll once again in Conference & Incentive Travel magazine’s prestigious Hot List Awards.

The Gold Award caps another momentous year for the venue which hosted such a memorable Ryder Cup in 2010. The venue beat off some strong competition for the prize with London’s Savoy Hotel taking the silver award and The Grove in Hertfordshire claiming bronze.

Celtic Manor had already in 2011 been named Europe’s Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators; UK Sport Venue of the Year at the Sport Industry Awards; and Best UK Hotel at the Meetings & Incentive Travel Awards.

With 400 bedrooms in two hotels, a large and versatile convention centre, three championship golf courses, five restaurants, a separate country inn, two luxurious spas and health clubs and a host of other leisure activities, The Celtic Manor Resort occupies a unique position in the marketplace.

Its recent succession of top awards has not prevented the resort from improving its conference facilities this year with new digital signage and a breakout lounge for lunch and refreshments.

The resort has also further enhanced its offering to corporate clients in 2011 with the opening of new treetop high ropes and adventure golf activities, which are ideal for team-building exercises.

Celtic Manor Chief Operating Officer Ian Edwards said: “We are delighted to receive this prestigious award, confirming our position as the best conference hotel in the UK.

“It is particularly satisfying that this comes as the result of a reader poll conducted with the industry experts, who are our clients. For them to vote for us to receive this award five years in a row is something we are very proud of.

“Having just celebrated the first anniversary of a Ryder Cup which many described as the greatest ever, it is very reassuring to know that we are still more than meeting the expectations of our customers and winning prestigious awards like this one.

“The award is a reflection not only of the excellent facilities at The Celtic Manor Resort but also the dedication to customer service of our entire staff.”

The resort’s convention centre – one of the largest hotel facilities of its kind in Europe – houses the Caernarfon Suite which can seat 1,500 delegates for a keynote lecture or 900 dining guests for a gala dinner. An additional 31 syndicate and meeting rooms with break-out areas can cater for every event from a small meeting around a table to large presentations for hundreds of people.

Celtic Manor offers an abundance of other meeting spaces including its latest addition – The Newbridge on Usk, an idyllic, riverside country inn with six bedrooms – and leisure incentives include the spectacular Twenty Ten Course and the luxurious Forum Spa.

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:10:26 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=6
Brendan Cole: Live at the Manor promises to be a wonderful evening packed full of sensational steps, mesmerising moves and toe-tapping tunes, as the acclaimed dancer brings all the sparkle of ballroom to South Wales.

The glittering stage show takes place in the magnificent Caernarfon Ballroom at the five-star Celtic Manor Resort following a sumptuous three-course dinner with wine. Special packages also offer the chance to meet the star of the show at a champagne and canapé reception beforehand, and to enjoy a night’s luxury stay after the show.

Cole became an instant viewers’ favourite when he won the opening series of Strictly Come Dancing, partnering TV presenter Natasha Kaplinsky in 2004, and he has been an ever-present in every series of the iconic show.
Cole said: “The Celtic Manor Resort is a perfect venue to showcase the glitz and glamour of ballroom dancing.

“We’ve used a lot of creativity and drawn on our years of experience to present a show that gives the audience the chance to feel the passion and brilliance of dance at close quarters.

“There’s something for everyone from raunchy Latin numbers to the most beautiful, slow waltzes.”

The New Zealand-born dancer, who has developed a reputation as the ‘badboy of ballroom’, has toured the country with his Live and Unjudged show but Brendan Cole: Live at the Manor is a unique event.

Cole will be joined for the show by other world-class dancers, including his brother Scott, and a superb live band.

The premium Brendan Cole: Up Close and Personal package offers guests the chance to meet the star, guaranteed front row table seats and an overnight stay.
All tickets, which start from only £115, include a champagne reception on arrival, three-course dinner with wine, the spectacular live dance show and an after-show disco with late bar.

For tickets and more details about Brendan Cole: Live at the Manor please visit www.celtic-manor.com/Brendan-Cole-Live-At-The-Manor.aspx or contact the Special Events team on 01633 410318.

]]> Strictly Come Dancing star Brendan Cole will strut his stuff at The Celtic Manor Resort when he presents a spectacular dance extravaganza on Saturday 18th February.

Brendan Cole: Live at the Manor promises to be a wonderful evening packed full of sensational steps, mesmerising moves and toe-tapping tunes, as the acclaimed dancer brings all the sparkle of ballroom to South Wales.

The glittering stage show takes place in the magnificent Caernarfon Ballroom at the five-star Celtic Manor Resort following a sumptuous three-course dinner with wine. Special packages also offer the chance to meet the star of the show at a champagne and canapé reception beforehand, and to enjoy a night’s luxury stay after the show.

Cole became an instant viewers’ favourite when he won the opening series of Strictly Come Dancing, partnering TV presenter Natasha Kaplinsky in 2004, and he has been an ever-present in every series of the iconic show.
Cole said: “The Celtic Manor Resort is a perfect venue to showcase the glitz and glamour of ballroom dancing.

“We’ve used a lot of creativity and drawn on our years of experience to present a show that gives the audience the chance to feel the passion and brilliance of dance at close quarters.

“There’s something for everyone from raunchy Latin numbers to the most beautiful, slow waltzes.”

The New Zealand-born dancer, who has developed a reputation as the ‘badboy of ballroom’, has toured the country with his Live and Unjudged show but Brendan Cole: Live at the Manor is a unique event.

Cole will be joined for the show by other world-class dancers, including his brother Scott, and a superb live band.

The premium Brendan Cole: Up Close and Personal package offers guests the chance to meet the star, guaranteed front row table seats and an overnight stay.
All tickets, which start from only £115, include a champagne reception on arrival, three-course dinner with wine, the spectacular live dance show and an after-show disco with late bar.

For tickets and more details about Brendan Cole: Live at the Manor please visit www.celtic-manor.com/Brendan-Cole-Live-At-The-Manor.aspx or contact the Special Events team on 01633 410318.

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 16:05:53 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=7
The five-star resort in South Wales is putting on its first ever Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday 5th November with attractive packages to watch the brilliant display light up the sky with a bang before settling back for a night’s luxury accommodation.

As well as an explosive extravaganza of fireworks on the Celtic Manor grounds, the evening will be filled with live music, children’s funfair rides, a licensed bar and plenty of tasty winter warming treats, including a hog roast, hot dogs, burgers and home-made toffee apples.

The Families Fireworks Package allows two adults and two children to share a family room for £196, with breakfast, tickets to the fireworks display and complimentary use of the health club facilities included. Couples can enjoy the Fireworks Night Package from just £141 per room.

Alternatively tickets are available for non-residents priced £6.50 adults and £3.50 children under-14. Admission is free for children under-two.

Gates open at 6.00pm and the fireworks display begins at 7.30pm. For more information or to book, visit http://www.celtic-manor.com/Fireworks-Spectacular.aspx or call the Special Events team on 01633 410318.

]]> Fancy adding an extra bit of sparkle to your Bonfire Night celebrations this year? Then why not make a luxury family break of the occasion at Celtic Manor?

The five-star resort in South Wales is putting on its first ever Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday 5th November with attractive packages to watch the brilliant display light up the sky with a bang before settling back for a night’s luxury accommodation.

As well as an explosive extravaganza of fireworks on the Celtic Manor grounds, the evening will be filled with live music, children’s funfair rides, a licensed bar and plenty of tasty winter warming treats, including a hog roast, hot dogs, burgers and home-made toffee apples.

The Families Fireworks Package allows two adults and two children to share a family room for £196, with breakfast, tickets to the fireworks display and complimentary use of the health club facilities included. Couples can enjoy the Fireworks Night Package from just £141 per room.

Alternatively tickets are available for non-residents priced £6.50 adults and £3.50 children under-14. Admission is free for children under-two.

Gates open at 6.00pm and the fireworks display begins at 7.30pm. For more information or to book, visit http://www.celtic-manor.com/Fireworks-Spectacular.aspx or call the Special Events team on 01633 410318.

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 16:10:37 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=8
Hunt won the Under-18 boys’ best gross prize by an impressive eight shots as the other seven players in the field all failed to break 80 on the demanding championship layout.

The Gwent county golfer from the St Mellons club wins a year’s honorary junior membership to Celtic Manor’s prestigious Twenty Ten Club as his prize.

Hunt said: “It’s fantastic to win a big competition like this on such a prestigious golf course. Conditions were pretty much perfect with virtually no wind and I played nicely and managed to keep my good score going.

“It feels great to win the Principality Junior Wales Open because the whole tournament is really well staged and the course was in superb condition.”

Leading Welsh amateur golfer Amy Boulden signed off her junior career in style by regaining the girls’ title she won at Celtic Manor at the tender age of 14 in 2007.

The plus-three handicapper from the Maesdu club in Llandudno has already made great strides as a Great Britain & Ireland international but was delighted to win her last major junior event, carding a round of 75.

“I did not play my best but it’s great to finish my last junior event on a high,” said Boulden, the daughter of Maesdu club professional Simon Boulden.

“It’s fantastic to get the opportunity to play the Ryder Cup course here at Celtic Manor – I’d only ever played 10 holes on it before.”

Best nett score prizes went to Jessica Evans of Newport in the Under-18 age group and St Pierre’s Megan Smith in the Under-15s while Ridgeway’s Emily Swain was the Under-13 girls’ stableford winner with a score of 28 points.

Emily May Boyman, of the Nefyn & District club, won the best gross prize in the Under-15 girls age group with a round of 87 while the Under-13 section was won by Coed-y-Mwstwr’s Sounisa Bell with a score of 90.

The best nett score among the Under-18 boys was a 73 returned by 12-handicapper Luke Jennings from the Vicars Cross club in Chester. Joshua Davies, from Dewstow in Gwent, won the Under-15 boys best gross prize with a 77 while Kidderminster’s Andy Longmore scooped the best nett, also a 77.

Among the Under-13 boys, Tom Farrow-Smith from North Hants won the best gross with a round of 82, St Pierre’s Laurence Vargas took the stableford award with 32 points and Gower’s Hari Pachu returned the best nett score of 74.

Graeme Yorston, Chief Operating Officer at sponsor Principality Building Society, said: “We’ve had a fantastic day of competition and it was wonderful to see so many youngsters enjoying their golf and testing themselves against such a challenging golf course.

“We congratulate the winners on some fine scores and we thank everyone who played or supported or helped organise this event. This is the future of Welsh golf and it was very pleasing to see almost 300 juniors enter the qualifiers and 56 successful finalists here at Celtic Manor.”

All the prize winners in the various age groups won a golf bag supplied by Welsh golf company Asbri which also provided goodie bags for all competitors.

Winners

Boys: Under-18s: gross and overall champion: Toby Hunt (St Mellons) 72; nett: Luke Jennings (Vicars Cross) 85-12-73

Under-15s: gross: Joshua Davies (Dewstow) 77; nett: Andy Longmore (Kidderminster) 79-2-77

Under-13s: Div 1 gross: Tom Farrow-Smith (North Hants) 82; Div 1 nett: Hari Pachu (Gower) 84-10-74; Div 2 stableford: Laurence Vargas (St Pierre) 32pts; Div 2 stableford runner-up: Cameron Tye (Eaton) 28pts

Girls: Under-18s: gross: Amy Boulden (Llandudno Maesdu) 75; nett: Jessica Evans (Newport) 80-3-77

Under-15s: gross: Emily May Boyman (Nefyn & District) 87; nett: Megan Smith (St Pierre) 89-15-74

Under-13s Div 1 gross: Sounisa Bell (Coed-y-Mwstwr) 90; Div 2 stableford: Emily Swain (Ridgeway) 28pts; Div 2 stableford runner-up: Soraya Bell (Coed-y-Mwstwr) 26 pts

]]> Toby Hunt was crowned Principality Junior Wales Open champion after a sparkling round of one-over-par 72 on the demanding Twenty Ten Course, the stage for last year’s Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor.

Hunt won the Under-18 boys’ best gross prize by an impressive eight shots as the other seven players in the field all failed to break 80 on the demanding championship layout.

The Gwent county golfer from the St Mellons club wins a year’s honorary junior membership to Celtic Manor’s prestigious Twenty Ten Club as his prize.

Hunt said: “It’s fantastic to win a big competition like this on such a prestigious golf course. Conditions were pretty much perfect with virtually no wind and I played nicely and managed to keep my good score going.

“It feels great to win the Principality Junior Wales Open because the whole tournament is really well staged and the course was in superb condition.”

Leading Welsh amateur golfer Amy Boulden signed off her junior career in style by regaining the girls’ title she won at Celtic Manor at the tender age of 14 in 2007.

The plus-three handicapper from the Maesdu club in Llandudno has already made great strides as a Great Britain & Ireland international but was delighted to win her last major junior event, carding a round of 75.

“I did not play my best but it’s great to finish my last junior event on a high,” said Boulden, the daughter of Maesdu club professional Simon Boulden.

“It’s fantastic to get the opportunity to play the Ryder Cup course here at Celtic Manor – I’d only ever played 10 holes on it before.”

Best nett score prizes went to Jessica Evans of Newport in the Under-18 age group and St Pierre’s Megan Smith in the Under-15s while Ridgeway’s Emily Swain was the Under-13 girls’ stableford winner with a score of 28 points.

Emily May Boyman, of the Nefyn & District club, won the best gross prize in the Under-15 girls age group with a round of 87 while the Under-13 section was won by Coed-y-Mwstwr’s Sounisa Bell with a score of 90.

The best nett score among the Under-18 boys was a 73 returned by 12-handicapper Luke Jennings from the Vicars Cross club in Chester. Joshua Davies, from Dewstow in Gwent, won the Under-15 boys best gross prize with a 77 while Kidderminster’s Andy Longmore scooped the best nett, also a 77.

Among the Under-13 boys, Tom Farrow-Smith from North Hants won the best gross with a round of 82, St Pierre’s Laurence Vargas took the stableford award with 32 points and Gower’s Hari Pachu returned the best nett score of 74.

Graeme Yorston, Chief Operating Officer at sponsor Principality Building Society, said: “We’ve had a fantastic day of competition and it was wonderful to see so many youngsters enjoying their golf and testing themselves against such a challenging golf course.

“We congratulate the winners on some fine scores and we thank everyone who played or supported or helped organise this event. This is the future of Welsh golf and it was very pleasing to see almost 300 juniors enter the qualifiers and 56 successful finalists here at Celtic Manor.”

All the prize winners in the various age groups won a golf bag supplied by Welsh golf company Asbri which also provided goodie bags for all competitors.

Winners

Boys: Under-18s: gross and overall champion: Toby Hunt (St Mellons) 72; nett: Luke Jennings (Vicars Cross) 85-12-73

Under-15s: gross: Joshua Davies (Dewstow) 77; nett: Andy Longmore (Kidderminster) 79-2-77

Under-13s: Div 1 gross: Tom Farrow-Smith (North Hants) 82; Div 1 nett: Hari Pachu (Gower) 84-10-74; Div 2 stableford: Laurence Vargas (St Pierre) 32pts; Div 2 stableford runner-up: Cameron Tye (Eaton) 28pts

Girls: Under-18s: gross: Amy Boulden (Llandudno Maesdu) 75; nett: Jessica Evans (Newport) 80-3-77

Under-15s: gross: Emily May Boyman (Nefyn & District) 87; nett: Megan Smith (St Pierre) 89-15-74

Under-13s Div 1 gross: Sounisa Bell (Coed-y-Mwstwr) 90; Div 2 stableford: Emily Swain (Ridgeway) 28pts; Div 2 stableford runner-up: Soraya Bell (Coed-y-Mwstwr) 26 pts

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:53:40 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=9
If you’re a family with a taste for adventure, do you think you have what it takes to compete in Wales’ Ultimate Family Challenge at Celtic Manor? Families will be tested on their bravery, skill and communication on the resort’s exciting new Forest Jump course.

Located in woodland next to the main Resort Hotel, this adventure activity features both high and low ropes courses, bridges, walkways and challenging obstacles made from wood, rope and wire in the treetops. A special course will be laid out for the challenge.

Families throughout Wales are invited to bid for the title by first submitting an application, explaining why they think they should be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family. Five families will then be chosen as finalists, winning an overnight stay at the resort on Saturday 24th September and competing in a number of Forest Jump challenges, testing their speed, accuracy and teamwork.

The winners will be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family and will receive a two-night luxury stay in a two-bedroom suite at The Celtic Manor Resort, worth £2,000 in total and including up to £500 to spend on its amenities.

Matthew Lewis, Director of Golf and Leisure at The Celtic Manor Resort, said: “Forest Jump has been a really popular addition to our family offering since we opened the activity at the beginning of June.

“Its many challenges will provide a fantastic way of finding Wales’ Ultimate Family and we’re all looking forward to putting the country’s most adventurous families through their paces on the course. It’s going to be a lot of fun for those who reach the final challenge.”

Families must live in Wales or have at least one member of their team who is Welsh. Family teams will be made up of two adults and between 1 and 4 children from the same family. Adults need to be parents or guardians of the children taking part. Children must be aged 6-18 and be at least 3ft 11in (1.2m) tall.

If you think your family has what it takes to be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family, and to read full Terms and Conditions, please click here

]]> Celtic Manor Resort, the world-class golf, leisure and business destination in Wales and host to the 2010 Ryder Cup, is searching for Wales’ Ultimate Family.

If you’re a family with a taste for adventure, do you think you have what it takes to compete in Wales’ Ultimate Family Challenge at Celtic Manor? Families will be tested on their bravery, skill and communication on the resort’s exciting new Forest Jump course.

Located in woodland next to the main Resort Hotel, this adventure activity features both high and low ropes courses, bridges, walkways and challenging obstacles made from wood, rope and wire in the treetops. A special course will be laid out for the challenge.

Families throughout Wales are invited to bid for the title by first submitting an application, explaining why they think they should be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family. Five families will then be chosen as finalists, winning an overnight stay at the resort on Saturday 24th September and competing in a number of Forest Jump challenges, testing their speed, accuracy and teamwork.

The winners will be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family and will receive a two-night luxury stay in a two-bedroom suite at The Celtic Manor Resort, worth £2,000 in total and including up to £500 to spend on its amenities.

Matthew Lewis, Director of Golf and Leisure at The Celtic Manor Resort, said: “Forest Jump has been a really popular addition to our family offering since we opened the activity at the beginning of June.

“Its many challenges will provide a fantastic way of finding Wales’ Ultimate Family and we’re all looking forward to putting the country’s most adventurous families through their paces on the course. It’s going to be a lot of fun for those who reach the final challenge.”

Families must live in Wales or have at least one member of their team who is Welsh. Family teams will be made up of two adults and between 1 and 4 children from the same family. Adults need to be parents or guardians of the children taking part. Children must be aged 6-18 and be at least 3ft 11in (1.2m) tall.

If you think your family has what it takes to be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family, and to read full Terms and Conditions, please click here

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 14:55:47 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=10
Reliving Monty’s Magic Monday, players will have the chance to represent Team Europe or Team USA, soaking up the Ryder Cup atmosphere with breakfast in their allocated team rooms and changing at the same lockers as the world’s best players before taking on the spectacular challenge of the Twenty Ten Course.

On the one-year anniversary of what many have hailed the most exciting Ryder Cup of all-time, participants will play to the exact same pin positions which confronted Graeme McDowell and the rest of Europe’s heroes during their nail-biting, one-point triumph on the final day.

The Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge will be played as a fourball betterball competition under a shotgun start with players able to keep in touch with the overall match scoreboard throughout the day via live scoring.

At the conclusion of play, the winning team will be announced and champagne will flow on the balcony of the Twenty Ten Clubhouse, just as it did when Captain Colin Montgomerie and his delighted team celebrated in front of their ecstatic fans a year before.

Players will also enjoy a three-course dinner in the Samuel Ryder Suite to round off a memorable day. For an entry fee of £245, players will all receive:

- 18 holes on Twenty Ten Course with live scoring
- Breakfast upon arrival in allocated team room
- Commemorative team shirt, sweater and hat
- Champagne reception on balcony of Twenty Ten Clubhouse
- Three-course celebration dinner in Samuel Ryder Suite

Those wishing to stay at Celtic Manor’s five-star Resort Hotel on the eve of the Challenge can do so from just £53.

“The Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge offers an exclusive opportunity for amateur golfers to experience the atmosphere of golf’s most celebrated team competition,” says Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive of Celtic Manor.

“Test your golfing mettle and enjoy the camaraderie, pomp, pressure and elation unique to the Ryder Cup.”

For more information click here

]]> The Celtic Manor Resort is inviting golfers to come back and celebrate the first anniversary of Europe’s dramatic victory in The 2010 Ryder Cup by playing in a special challenge match on Monday 3rd October.

Reliving Monty’s Magic Monday, players will have the chance to represent Team Europe or Team USA, soaking up the Ryder Cup atmosphere with breakfast in their allocated team rooms and changing at the same lockers as the world’s best players before taking on the spectacular challenge of the Twenty Ten Course.

On the one-year anniversary of what many have hailed the most exciting Ryder Cup of all-time, participants will play to the exact same pin positions which confronted Graeme McDowell and the rest of Europe’s heroes during their nail-biting, one-point triumph on the final day.

The Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge will be played as a fourball betterball competition under a shotgun start with players able to keep in touch with the overall match scoreboard throughout the day via live scoring.

At the conclusion of play, the winning team will be announced and champagne will flow on the balcony of the Twenty Ten Clubhouse, just as it did when Captain Colin Montgomerie and his delighted team celebrated in front of their ecstatic fans a year before.

Players will also enjoy a three-course dinner in the Samuel Ryder Suite to round off a memorable day. For an entry fee of £245, players will all receive:

- 18 holes on Twenty Ten Course with live scoring
- Breakfast upon arrival in allocated team room
- Commemorative team shirt, sweater and hat
- Champagne reception on balcony of Twenty Ten Clubhouse
- Three-course celebration dinner in Samuel Ryder Suite

Those wishing to stay at Celtic Manor’s five-star Resort Hotel on the eve of the Challenge can do so from just £53.

“The Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge offers an exclusive opportunity for amateur golfers to experience the atmosphere of golf’s most celebrated team competition,” says Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive of Celtic Manor.

“Test your golfing mettle and enjoy the camaraderie, pomp, pressure and elation unique to the Ryder Cup.”

For more information click here

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 10:17:06 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=11
More than £500,000 has been invested in building a new Forest Jump treetop high ropes course and an Adventure Golf putting challenge at the five-star resort in South Wales.

Forest Jump is an exciting new development set to bring out the daredevil in visitors with a series of exhilarating climbs, swings and leaps, culminating in a breathtaking, power-fan freefall descent.

A high ropes course takes guests 12 metres up into the woodland adjacent to Celtic Manor’s main Resort Hotel, while a low ropes course allows children as young as six to enjoy the adventure, too.

Youngsters are also making swings of a different kind on the new Adventure Golf course which challenges players of all ages and abilities to putt their ball through, around and over various obstacles in search of that elusive hole in one.

Famed for hosting last year’s dramatic Ryder Cup, Celtic Manor now offers everyone the chance to play golf in miniature with fun challenges on the Celtic Challenge course including an Iona Cross, a dragon’s lair and rafts to sail between holes.

An additional nine holes are based on famous holes in world golf so, from seasoned players to toddlers taking their first steps in the game, Adventure Golf offers another fantastic way to bring the family together at Celtic Manor.

Resort Chief Executive Dylan Matthews said: “While golf and the Ryder Cup has grabbed the headlines, the resort has enjoyed record years for family and leisure bookings in 2009 and 2010.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on our family-friendly facilities and these two new adventure activities will certainly add considerably to what we can offer to all of our leisure guests.”

A packed family itinerary at Celtic Manor already includes a host of activities from face painting to fishing and from bushcraft and falconry to mountain biking and tennis. Youngsters can discover the woodland with Flora the Forest Ranger, enjoy treasure-hunting fun with Pirate Jac and blast off into space activities with Cosmo the Space Ranger.

With three championship golf courses, two luxury spas and a choice of six restaurants, there is also plenty to keep the adults amused at the resort which is situated just two hours from London by road or rail.

Attractive packages to stay at Celtic Manor and explore all the resort activities include the “Summer Rocks!” deal which has rooms starting from £89 per night for a family of four, including breakfast.*

You do not have to be a resident at the hotel to experience Forest Jump or Adventure Golf as both activities are also available to the public.

For more information or to book, visit celtic-manor.com or call Reservations on 01633 410262.



]]> Families have even more reason to book a summer break at The Celtic Manor Resort following the opening of two new adventure activities in time for the school holidays.

More than £500,000 has been invested in building a new Forest Jump treetop high ropes course and an Adventure Golf putting challenge at the five-star resort in South Wales.

Forest Jump is an exciting new development set to bring out the daredevil in visitors with a series of exhilarating climbs, swings and leaps, culminating in a breathtaking, power-fan freefall descent.

A high ropes course takes guests 12 metres up into the woodland adjacent to Celtic Manor’s main Resort Hotel, while a low ropes course allows children as young as six to enjoy the adventure, too.

Youngsters are also making swings of a different kind on the new Adventure Golf course which challenges players of all ages and abilities to putt their ball through, around and over various obstacles in search of that elusive hole in one.

Famed for hosting last year’s dramatic Ryder Cup, Celtic Manor now offers everyone the chance to play golf in miniature with fun challenges on the Celtic Challenge course including an Iona Cross, a dragon’s lair and rafts to sail between holes.

An additional nine holes are based on famous holes in world golf so, from seasoned players to toddlers taking their first steps in the game, Adventure Golf offers another fantastic way to bring the family together at Celtic Manor.

Resort Chief Executive Dylan Matthews said: “While golf and the Ryder Cup has grabbed the headlines, the resort has enjoyed record years for family and leisure bookings in 2009 and 2010.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on our family-friendly facilities and these two new adventure activities will certainly add considerably to what we can offer to all of our leisure guests.”

A packed family itinerary at Celtic Manor already includes a host of activities from face painting to fishing and from bushcraft and falconry to mountain biking and tennis. Youngsters can discover the woodland with Flora the Forest Ranger, enjoy treasure-hunting fun with Pirate Jac and blast off into space activities with Cosmo the Space Ranger.

With three championship golf courses, two luxury spas and a choice of six restaurants, there is also plenty to keep the adults amused at the resort which is situated just two hours from London by road or rail.

Attractive packages to stay at Celtic Manor and explore all the resort activities include the “Summer Rocks!” deal which has rooms starting from £89 per night for a family of four, including breakfast.*

You do not have to be a resident at the hotel to experience Forest Jump or Adventure Golf as both activities are also available to the public.

For more information or to book, visit celtic-manor.com or call Reservations on 01633 410262.



Thu, 14 Jul 2011 18:13:44 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=12
Around 1,000 hospitality guests at Elemis Polo at the Manor quenched their thirst in the soaring temperatures with Pimm’s and champagne before enjoying a three-course lunch in a huge marquee and adjoining private pods.

A similar number of spectators lined the other three sides of the polo field to watch two exhibition matches at the inaugural polo event at Celtic Manor on Saturday 2nd July.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole, Countryfile presenter Julia Bradbury and Welsh rugby legend Gareth Edwards were among the celebrities lapping up the sun-drenched hospitality.

On the specially-constructed polo field, England players Malcolm Borwick and Tom Morley lined up on different sides in the main match and, following a fast start from Cirencester Park, it was Morley’s Celtic Manor team which prevailed 7-6 after four chukkas.

Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive of The Celtic Manor Resort, said: “We’re delighted that the first Elemis Polo at the Manor has been a sell-out success and look forward to making this event a fixture on the Welsh sporting calendar.

“We couldn’t have asked for better weather and it really contributed to a wonderful day out. Many of our guests were seeing polo for the first time and I’m sure they’ll be keen to watch more polo after this.”

As well as watching top-class polo in the day's headline match, guests also participated in the traditional half-time polo custom of ‘treading the divots’ between matches.

With ladies showing off their finest summer frocks and gents looking their most dapper, a best-dressed competition sponsored by John Lewis was won by Lucy Brimble and Jason Vigliotta.

A charity raffle raised funds for Welsh children’s charity Latch and £6,000 was raised by one auction lot offering a luxury holiday to Dubai.

A fun family day out also included a Polo Village with Champagne and Pimm’s bars, a Kids Zone and the chance to sample spa treatments from title sponsor Elemis, Britain’s leading spa and skincare brand.

]]> The first-ever polo event at The Celtic Manor Resort was a sell-out success as more than 2,000 people enjoyed a glamorous afternoon of sport in the sunshine.

Around 1,000 hospitality guests at Elemis Polo at the Manor quenched their thirst in the soaring temperatures with Pimm’s and champagne before enjoying a three-course lunch in a huge marquee and adjoining private pods.

A similar number of spectators lined the other three sides of the polo field to watch two exhibition matches at the inaugural polo event at Celtic Manor on Saturday 2nd July.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole, Countryfile presenter Julia Bradbury and Welsh rugby legend Gareth Edwards were among the celebrities lapping up the sun-drenched hospitality.

On the specially-constructed polo field, England players Malcolm Borwick and Tom Morley lined up on different sides in the main match and, following a fast start from Cirencester Park, it was Morley’s Celtic Manor team which prevailed 7-6 after four chukkas.

Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive of The Celtic Manor Resort, said: “We’re delighted that the first Elemis Polo at the Manor has been a sell-out success and look forward to making this event a fixture on the Welsh sporting calendar.

“We couldn’t have asked for better weather and it really contributed to a wonderful day out. Many of our guests were seeing polo for the first time and I’m sure they’ll be keen to watch more polo after this.”

As well as watching top-class polo in the day's headline match, guests also participated in the traditional half-time polo custom of ‘treading the divots’ between matches.

With ladies showing off their finest summer frocks and gents looking their most dapper, a best-dressed competition sponsored by John Lewis was won by Lucy Brimble and Jason Vigliotta.

A charity raffle raised funds for Welsh children’s charity Latch and £6,000 was raised by one auction lot offering a luxury holiday to Dubai.

A fun family day out also included a Polo Village with Champagne and Pimm’s bars, a Kids Zone and the chance to sample spa treatments from title sponsor Elemis, Britain’s leading spa and skincare brand.

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 14:39:20 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=13
There are only a limited number of spectator tickets available for Elemis Polo at the Manor on Saturday 2nd July with all 1,000 hospitality packages completely sold out.

As well as hospitality sales exceeding expectations, the event has also attracted additional sponsorship from official sponsors City Index, one of the world leaders in spread betting and CFD trading, and Champagne Besserat de Bellefon, which will be supplying the all-important bubbly for what is billed as the social event of the season.

UK audiences for polo have grown by a third over the past two years and Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive of The Celtic Manor Resort, is anticipating this latest attraction on the venue’s exciting events calendar will be a huge success.

He said: “We’re extremely excited about the first-ever Elemis Polo at the Manor on Saturday. Ticket sales have been excellent so far and we are delighted by the response to this new venture for The Celtic Manor Resort.”

As well as watching top-class polo in the day's headline match, which features England internationals Malcolm Borwick and Tom Morley, guests will be able to participate in traditional polo customs such as the half-time ‘treading the divots,’ where the public are invited into the playing arena.

Saturday’s entertaining schedule also includes a junior development match, a best-dressed competition sponsored by John Lewis, live music from Aubrey Parsons and a variety of fundraising opportunities to support Latch, the official charity.

A fun family day out also includes a Polo Village with Champagne and Pimm’s bars, a Kids Zone and the chance to sample spa treatments from title sponsor Elemis, Britain’s leading spa and skincare brand.

Spectator tickets, priced £15 adults, £10 seniors and £5 children, are available to purchase on the gate. For more information about Elemis Polo at the Manor go to www.poloatthemanor.co.uk

]]> Tickets for this weekend’s polo contest at The Celtic Manor Resort are rapidly selling out as the world famous Welsh venue prepares to open its gates to the ‘Sport of Kings’ for the first time.

There are only a limited number of spectator tickets available for Elemis Polo at the Manor on Saturday 2nd July with all 1,000 hospitality packages completely sold out.

As well as hospitality sales exceeding expectations, the event has also attracted additional sponsorship from official sponsors City Index, one of the world leaders in spread betting and CFD trading, and Champagne Besserat de Bellefon, which will be supplying the all-important bubbly for what is billed as the social event of the season.

UK audiences for polo have grown by a third over the past two years and Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive of The Celtic Manor Resort, is anticipating this latest attraction on the venue’s exciting events calendar will be a huge success.

He said: “We’re extremely excited about the first-ever Elemis Polo at the Manor on Saturday. Ticket sales have been excellent so far and we are delighted by the response to this new venture for The Celtic Manor Resort.”

As well as watching top-class polo in the day's headline match, which features England internationals Malcolm Borwick and Tom Morley, guests will be able to participate in traditional polo customs such as the half-time ‘treading the divots,’ where the public are invited into the playing arena.

Saturday’s entertaining schedule also includes a junior development match, a best-dressed competition sponsored by John Lewis, live music from Aubrey Parsons and a variety of fundraising opportunities to support Latch, the official charity.

A fun family day out also includes a Polo Village with Champagne and Pimm’s bars, a Kids Zone and the chance to sample spa treatments from title sponsor Elemis, Britain’s leading spa and skincare brand.

Spectator tickets, priced £15 adults, £10 seniors and £5 children, are available to purchase on the gate. For more information about Elemis Polo at the Manor go to www.poloatthemanor.co.uk

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 17:38:56 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=14
Last month, Sweden’s Caroline Hedwall beat a star-studded field which included US Open champions Graeme McDowell and Paula Creamer, and Ryder Cup stars Paul Casey and Ian Poulter, to claim the inaugural PowerPlay Golf Driven by Saab: Ignition trophy.

In front of a bumper TV audience on Sky Sports, Hedwall rolled in a 12-foot birdie putt on the last hole – worth double points as a PowerPlay – to land the £100,000 first prize.

Now The Celtic Manor Resort is offering ordinary golfers the chance to try PowerPlay Golf, the exciting new format which is played over nine holes with two flags on every green. Seen as golf’s answer to Twenty20 cricket, competitors choose when they want to attack the more difficult Black Flag and aim at double points for birdies or better in the modified stableford scoring system.

“It’s a new format and a new way of playing the game,” said McDowell, who clinched the winning point in last year’s Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor.

“It’s lots of fun and a great concept. It’s all about the strategy of where and when you choose to use your PowerPlays.”

While the tour professional series moves on to the USA and Asia later this summer, PowerPlay competitions for ordinary golfers take place on the Roman Road Course at Celtic Manor on five selected dates between July 10 and September 4.

For an entry fee of £59, each competitor gets nine holes of golf with the chance to win prizes as well as a post-round, three-course dinner and prize presentation.

There is also a residential package which includes an overnight stay in the five-star Resort Hotel, full Welsh breakfast and 18 holes of golf on the Roman Road or The Montgomerie the following day, from as little as £123.

PowerPlay at Celtic Manor dates: July 10, 28; August 7, 18; September 4. For more details visit celtic-manor.com or call Reservations on 01633 410262.

]]> The superstars of world golf have contested the first tour professional PowerPlay Golf event at The Celtic Manor Resort. Now it’s your chance to play the exciting new golf format at the venue which hosted The 2010 Ryder Cup.

Last month, Sweden’s Caroline Hedwall beat a star-studded field which included US Open champions Graeme McDowell and Paula Creamer, and Ryder Cup stars Paul Casey and Ian Poulter, to claim the inaugural PowerPlay Golf Driven by Saab: Ignition trophy.

In front of a bumper TV audience on Sky Sports, Hedwall rolled in a 12-foot birdie putt on the last hole – worth double points as a PowerPlay – to land the £100,000 first prize.

Now The Celtic Manor Resort is offering ordinary golfers the chance to try PowerPlay Golf, the exciting new format which is played over nine holes with two flags on every green. Seen as golf’s answer to Twenty20 cricket, competitors choose when they want to attack the more difficult Black Flag and aim at double points for birdies or better in the modified stableford scoring system.

“It’s a new format and a new way of playing the game,” said McDowell, who clinched the winning point in last year’s Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor.

“It’s lots of fun and a great concept. It’s all about the strategy of where and when you choose to use your PowerPlays.”

While the tour professional series moves on to the USA and Asia later this summer, PowerPlay competitions for ordinary golfers take place on the Roman Road Course at Celtic Manor on five selected dates between July 10 and September 4.

For an entry fee of £59, each competitor gets nine holes of golf with the chance to win prizes as well as a post-round, three-course dinner and prize presentation.

There is also a residential package which includes an overnight stay in the five-star Resort Hotel, full Welsh breakfast and 18 holes of golf on the Roman Road or The Montgomerie the following day, from as little as £123.

PowerPlay at Celtic Manor dates: July 10, 28; August 7, 18; September 4. For more details visit celtic-manor.com or call Reservations on 01633 410262.

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:43:15 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=15
Jim McKenzie, Director of Golf Courses at Celtic Manor, and his team of 110 staff and volunteer greenkeepers had to cope with the catastrophic effects of half the average monthly rainfall pouring down on The Twenty Ten Course during the weekend of The 2010 Ryder Cup.

Prolonged suspensions in play caused by the weather on both Friday and Sunday meant the tournament was forced into an extra day for the first time in history, but the fact it was finished at all is testament to the resilience and dedication of McKenzie and his team.

It was quite some finish they cleared the course for, as well, as Graeme McDowell clinched a nail-biting, single-point victory for Europe on the 17th green of the very last match.

As winning captain Colin Montgomerie observed at the closing ceremony: “I congratulate Sir Terry Matthews and his fantastic staff at The Celtic Manor Resort and, in particular, a superb vote of thanks goes to Jim McKenzie and his team of 110 greenkeepers who made playing here possible.

“The world was watching and Wales delivered.”

McKenzie totalled less than 11 hours of sleep over four nights as he fought to keep the elements at bay and bring the biggest tournament of his professional career to a successful conclusion.

Even wife Debbie and son Elliot joined the effort as his team worked into the night, laying tons of chip bark to keep the spectator areas safe. They also toiled through long, hard days repairing bunkers and squeegeeing water off the greens and fairways once the rain eased.

“I was gobsmacked when I first heard about being awarded an MBE,” said McKenzie. “It’s an award for the whole team really because the shift they put in over those four days was absolutely extraordinary.”

McKenzie recalls meeting Europe’s skipper Montgomerie in the hotel elevators when he was at his lowest ebb during the long delay to play as the rain kept hammering down on Sunday morning.

“Monty said there was a good chance that if we got no play at all on Sunday then the matches out on the golf course from Saturday evening would be declared halved matches and Europe would go into the concluding singles session two points down.

“He said that would be a big, big blow as we were up in all six matches when play had finished on Saturday night.

“I went back down to rally the troops. I basically just stood in front of them and told them they had a really massive role to play.

“Not only could they help get the Ryder Cup played to a finish, they could also help Europe to win the Ryder Cup. I thought I had a motivated team before, but they nearly knocked me down as they rushed for the door to get out there after hearing those words!”

Since recruitment from Wentworth Club in 1993, McKenzie has overseen the development of all the golf courses at The Celtic Manor Resort having been sold the Ryder Cup dream by owner Sir Terry Matthews.

“I thought he was mad at the time,” admits the 49-year-old Scotsman. “But he pulled it off when people gave us a two per cent chance of winning the bid.

“It was the high point of my professional career. I don’t think I’ll ever describe The Ryder Cup as the most enjoyable experience of my life, but it certainly turned out to be the most satisfying.”

]]> The man who led the greenkeeping team which ensured last year’s Ryder Cup was played to its dramatic conclusion has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Jim McKenzie, Director of Golf Courses at Celtic Manor, and his team of 110 staff and volunteer greenkeepers had to cope with the catastrophic effects of half the average monthly rainfall pouring down on The Twenty Ten Course during the weekend of The 2010 Ryder Cup.

Prolonged suspensions in play caused by the weather on both Friday and Sunday meant the tournament was forced into an extra day for the first time in history, but the fact it was finished at all is testament to the resilience and dedication of McKenzie and his team.

It was quite some finish they cleared the course for, as well, as Graeme McDowell clinched a nail-biting, single-point victory for Europe on the 17th green of the very last match.

As winning captain Colin Montgomerie observed at the closing ceremony: “I congratulate Sir Terry Matthews and his fantastic staff at The Celtic Manor Resort and, in particular, a superb vote of thanks goes to Jim McKenzie and his team of 110 greenkeepers who made playing here possible.

“The world was watching and Wales delivered.”

McKenzie totalled less than 11 hours of sleep over four nights as he fought to keep the elements at bay and bring the biggest tournament of his professional career to a successful conclusion.

Even wife Debbie and son Elliot joined the effort as his team worked into the night, laying tons of chip bark to keep the spectator areas safe. They also toiled through long, hard days repairing bunkers and squeegeeing water off the greens and fairways once the rain eased.

“I was gobsmacked when I first heard about being awarded an MBE,” said McKenzie. “It’s an award for the whole team really because the shift they put in over those four days was absolutely extraordinary.”

McKenzie recalls meeting Europe’s skipper Montgomerie in the hotel elevators when he was at his lowest ebb during the long delay to play as the rain kept hammering down on Sunday morning.

“Monty said there was a good chance that if we got no play at all on Sunday then the matches out on the golf course from Saturday evening would be declared halved matches and Europe would go into the concluding singles session two points down.

“He said that would be a big, big blow as we were up in all six matches when play had finished on Saturday night.

“I went back down to rally the troops. I basically just stood in front of them and told them they had a really massive role to play.

“Not only could they help get the Ryder Cup played to a finish, they could also help Europe to win the Ryder Cup. I thought I had a motivated team before, but they nearly knocked me down as they rushed for the door to get out there after hearing those words!”

Since recruitment from Wentworth Club in 1993, McKenzie has overseen the development of all the golf courses at The Celtic Manor Resort having been sold the Ryder Cup dream by owner Sir Terry Matthews.

“I thought he was mad at the time,” admits the 49-year-old Scotsman. “But he pulled it off when people gave us a two per cent chance of winning the bid.

“It was the high point of my professional career. I don’t think I’ll ever describe The Ryder Cup as the most enjoyable experience of my life, but it certainly turned out to be the most satisfying.”

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:44:44 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=16
The Swedish premium car manufacturer was delighted to have a winner from its homeland as Noren completed an impressive champion’s performance in a tournament he had led from the second round on Friday.

Noren’s brilliant performance bookended a superb Saab Golf Week on The Twenty Ten Course as his compatriot Caroline Hedwall was the winner of the inaugural PowerPlay Golf Driven by Saab: Ignition event on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30th.

While many of his closest challengers, including defending champion Graeme McDowell, fell away in dramatic fashion over a windy weekend, Noren was a picture of Scandinavian calm as he closed out his second win on The European Tour with rounds of 71 and 70 to finish nine under par.

“You can’t relax anywhere on this golf course,” said the winner of the Omega European Masters in 2009. “There is pressure from hole one and even the wedges can spin back into the water.

“This feels great, that I could go on top leading after two rounds and still be leading after four.”

Noren began his own dream week by qualifying for the US Open at Walton Heath on Monday before collecting the biggest pay cheque of his career with the £300,000 first prize for the Saab Wales Open.

Frenchman Grégory Bourdy and Denmark’s Anders Hansen were tied second on seven under and two more Swedes, Peter Hanson and Johan Edfors, shared fourth place with Argentina’s Ricardo Gonzalez and Spaniard Pablo Larrazabal a shot further back.

Sweden ended up with five players in the top 11 as Joel Sjoholm and Magnus Carlsson shared eight place with Welshman Jamie Donaldson and Scotland’s Peter Whiteford.

“This was a great week for us,” said Saab GB Managing Director Charles Toosey at the closing ceremony. “We thank the venue, The Celtic Manor Resort, for hosting another fabulous tournament.

“To start the week with a Swedish winner of the first PowerPlay event and to finish it with another Swedish winner here at the Saab Wales Open has just been fantastic.”

]]> Sweden’s Alexander Noren provided the new title sponsor of the Saab Wales Open with a dream winner when he won the tournament by two strokes at Celtic Manor on Sunday.

The Swedish premium car manufacturer was delighted to have a winner from its homeland as Noren completed an impressive champion’s performance in a tournament he had led from the second round on Friday.

Noren’s brilliant performance bookended a superb Saab Golf Week on The Twenty Ten Course as his compatriot Caroline Hedwall was the winner of the inaugural PowerPlay Golf Driven by Saab: Ignition event on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30th.

While many of his closest challengers, including defending champion Graeme McDowell, fell away in dramatic fashion over a windy weekend, Noren was a picture of Scandinavian calm as he closed out his second win on The European Tour with rounds of 71 and 70 to finish nine under par.

“You can’t relax anywhere on this golf course,” said the winner of the Omega European Masters in 2009. “There is pressure from hole one and even the wedges can spin back into the water.

“This feels great, that I could go on top leading after two rounds and still be leading after four.”

Noren began his own dream week by qualifying for the US Open at Walton Heath on Monday before collecting the biggest pay cheque of his career with the £300,000 first prize for the Saab Wales Open.

Frenchman Grégory Bourdy and Denmark’s Anders Hansen were tied second on seven under and two more Swedes, Peter Hanson and Johan Edfors, shared fourth place with Argentina’s Ricardo Gonzalez and Spaniard Pablo Larrazabal a shot further back.

Sweden ended up with five players in the top 11 as Joel Sjoholm and Magnus Carlsson shared eight place with Welshman Jamie Donaldson and Scotland’s Peter Whiteford.

“This was a great week for us,” said Saab GB Managing Director Charles Toosey at the closing ceremony. “We thank the venue, The Celtic Manor Resort, for hosting another fabulous tournament.

“To start the week with a Swedish winner of the first PowerPlay event and to finish it with another Swedish winner here at the Saab Wales Open has just been fantastic.”

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 21:04:44 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=17
Hedwall claimed 32 points in the modified stableford scoring system which saw two flags on every green of the nine-hole course and double points on offer for birdies and eagles gained at the more difficult Black Flag hole locations.

At the same venue which produced such a dramatic Ryder Cup in October, the first event in this new PowerPlay series boiled down to a classic matchplay scenario on the ninth and final green.

Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter played a spectacular tee shot to within eight feet of the Black Flag on the reachable par-four while Hedwall laid up before pitching to 10 feet. Hedwall, a first-time winner on the Ladies European Tour just the day before, stood over her putt knowing that if she missed and Poulter holed for eagle and eight points, the Englishman would overtake her.

The Swede calmly rolled the putt home and Poulter, unable now to catch her, saw his own effort drift by the hole, leaving Hedwall the worthy winner.

“I can’t believe it,” said the 22-year-old rookie professional. “It’s been an unbelievable weekend.”

The third member of their group, Helen Alfredsson also birdied the last to take second place with the other lady in the field, Paula Creamer, third as some of the biggest names in golf including Graeme McDowell, Paul Casey and John Daly were left trailing in their wake.

]]> Sweden’s Caroline Hedwall claimed the PowerPlay Golf Driven by Saab: Ignition trophy as the ladies upstaged the men in the inaugural tour professional event for the innovative new format at Celtic Manor.

Hedwall claimed 32 points in the modified stableford scoring system which saw two flags on every green of the nine-hole course and double points on offer for birdies and eagles gained at the more difficult Black Flag hole locations.

At the same venue which produced such a dramatic Ryder Cup in October, the first event in this new PowerPlay series boiled down to a classic matchplay scenario on the ninth and final green.

Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter played a spectacular tee shot to within eight feet of the Black Flag on the reachable par-four while Hedwall laid up before pitching to 10 feet. Hedwall, a first-time winner on the Ladies European Tour just the day before, stood over her putt knowing that if she missed and Poulter holed for eagle and eight points, the Englishman would overtake her.

The Swede calmly rolled the putt home and Poulter, unable now to catch her, saw his own effort drift by the hole, leaving Hedwall the worthy winner.

“I can’t believe it,” said the 22-year-old rookie professional. “It’s been an unbelievable weekend.”

The third member of their group, Helen Alfredsson also birdied the last to take second place with the other lady in the field, Paula Creamer, third as some of the biggest names in golf including Graeme McDowell, Paul Casey and John Daly were left trailing in their wake.

Tue, 31 May 2011 09:59:36 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=18
The first year of title sponsorship from Saab will see the premium car manufacturer offer a luxury saloon as the prize for the first hole-in-one recorded on the spectacular 13th hole of The Twenty Ten Course.

The first professional to fire an ace on the 189-yard, water-protected par-3 will drive away a Saab 9-5 2.0-litre TTiD XWD worth £34,465. The model features a brand new twin-turbocharged, 2.0-litre diesel engine and is capable of producing 190 bhp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Players in the starting field for the Saab Wales Open from June 2-5 who will take aim at winning the car include Ryder Cup stars Graeme McDowell, Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ross Fisher, Darren Clarke and Thomas Bjorn, along with big-hitting American John Daly who makes his debut in the event as a sponsor’s invite.

Looking towards the target from the tee, the players will be able to see the prize on offer as the car is displayed sitting on a podium in the lake which guards the 13th green.

Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director, David Pugh, said: “Saab Golf Week at The Celtic Manor Resort is our first venture into golf sponsorship and we are delighted by the showcase the tournament offers for our products.

“To be able to offer one of our leading models as a hole-in-one prize just adds to the fun and the excitement of being involved with this great week of golf. We look forward to watching the tour professionals try to win the car over the four days of competition and wish them all the best of luck.”

The odds of a tour professional scoring a hole-in-one are reckoned to be 2,500-1 but there were three on the opening day of the 2009 Wales Open, including one by Jeev Milkha Singh on the 13th hole. Alvaro Quiros and Francois Delamontagne also holed their tee shots on two of the other par-3 holes on the course during last year’s event.

The same Saab model was also offered for a hole-in-one on the same hole during today’s (Monday’s) PowerPlay Golf Driven by Saab: Ignition for competitors choosing the more dangerous Black Flag.

As well as top class sporting action at one of The European Tour’s leading events, the Saab Wales Open also offers spectators the chance to enjoy family attractions in the tented village and provides a great value, full day out. Children Under-16 enjoy free entry if accompanied by an adult.

Daily and season tickets for the Saab Wales Open, priced £25 and £55, are available on the gate.

]]> A year of firsts at this week’s Saab Wales Open continues with a first ever hole-in-one prize for players to shoot at during the £1.8m European Tour event at Celtic Manor.

The first year of title sponsorship from Saab will see the premium car manufacturer offer a luxury saloon as the prize for the first hole-in-one recorded on the spectacular 13th hole of The Twenty Ten Course.

The first professional to fire an ace on the 189-yard, water-protected par-3 will drive away a Saab 9-5 2.0-litre TTiD XWD worth £34,465. The model features a brand new twin-turbocharged, 2.0-litre diesel engine and is capable of producing 190 bhp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Players in the starting field for the Saab Wales Open from June 2-5 who will take aim at winning the car include Ryder Cup stars Graeme McDowell, Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ross Fisher, Darren Clarke and Thomas Bjorn, along with big-hitting American John Daly who makes his debut in the event as a sponsor’s invite.

Looking towards the target from the tee, the players will be able to see the prize on offer as the car is displayed sitting on a podium in the lake which guards the 13th green.

Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director, David Pugh, said: “Saab Golf Week at The Celtic Manor Resort is our first venture into golf sponsorship and we are delighted by the showcase the tournament offers for our products.

“To be able to offer one of our leading models as a hole-in-one prize just adds to the fun and the excitement of being involved with this great week of golf. We look forward to watching the tour professionals try to win the car over the four days of competition and wish them all the best of luck.”

The odds of a tour professional scoring a hole-in-one are reckoned to be 2,500-1 but there were three on the opening day of the 2009 Wales Open, including one by Jeev Milkha Singh on the 13th hole. Alvaro Quiros and Francois Delamontagne also holed their tee shots on two of the other par-3 holes on the course during last year’s event.

The same Saab model was also offered for a hole-in-one on the same hole during today’s (Monday’s) PowerPlay Golf Driven by Saab: Ignition for competitors choosing the more dangerous Black Flag.

As well as top class sporting action at one of The European Tour’s leading events, the Saab Wales Open also offers spectators the chance to enjoy family attractions in the tented village and provides a great value, full day out. Children Under-16 enjoy free entry if accompanied by an adult.

Daily and season tickets for the Saab Wales Open, priced £25 and £55, are available on the gate.

Mon, 30 May 2011 16:06:48 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=19
Davies shot a course-record 62 in the final round of last year’s tournament to be the closest challenger to eventual champion Graeme McDowell at Celtic Manor.

Three months before, the then European Tour rookie had claimed his first top tier victory at the Trophée Hassan II in Morocco but the £200,000 the Welshman collected for finishing second in his home event remains his highest pay cheque.

Davies, who narrowly missed out on defending his Trophée Hassan II title when he was beaten by David Horsey in a play-off this April, is understandably excited about his return to home soil for the Saab Wales Open from June 2-5.

“It's great to come back and play at home and to get back to the course where I had a final day 62 last summer makes it that bit more special,” said the 25-year-old from Bridgend.

“A few more people know you and give you that extra support. The Twenty Ten Course is one that I feel suits my game and the Celtic Manor is becoming a familiar environment for me.

“The work done by the Matthews family there deserves a good field of European Tour professionals and I just love coming back to my home country to play this event.”

Davies was also involved in October’s dramatic Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor when he was invited into the team room after being the closest Welshman to qualifying for Colin Montgomerie’s European team.

His run at the title on The Twenty Ten Course last June followed another runner’s-up spot in Spain the week before and came at the end of a superb run which saw him grab five top-three finishes in three months and propelled him to 18th place on last year’s Race to Dubai in his first full season.

He is again the leading Welshman on this year’s money list but Jamie Donaldson is not far behind after four top-15 finishes in 2011. Other established Welsh players in the field include Stephen Dodd, Bradley Dredge and Phillip Price, who have eight European Tour victories between them.

Challenge Tour graduates Stuart Manley and Liam Bond are also in the starting field along with Simon Edwards, who qualifies through his performances in PGA events, and sponsors’ invites Sion Bebb and Garry Houston.

No Welshman has ever landed the Wales Open but Dredge, like Davies, has finished second. His one-shot lead coming down the last in 2007 was overturned by a brilliant birdie from South Africa’s Richard Sterne while Dredge drove into a bunker en route to a costly bogey five.

The home hopes will face stiff competition in their bid to land this year’s title as world No 5 and current US Open champion Graeme McDowell returns to defend his title. He will be joined by three of his team-mates from Europe’s thrilling Ryder Cup win at Celtic Manor in October – Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ross Fisher and Peter Hanson – their captain, Colin Montgomerie, and vice-captains Darren Clarke and Thomas Bjorn, who have both recorded European Tour wins this season.

As well as top class sporting action at one of The European Tour’s leading events, the Saab Wales Open also offers spectators the chance to enjoy family attractions in the tented village and provides a great value, full day out. Children Under-16 enjoy free entry if accompanied by an adult.

Saab Golf Week starts early on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30th, when Graeme McDowell, John Daly, Ian Poulter and Paul Casey will be among a star-studded 12-man field competing in a brand new nine-hole, two-flag shootout - PowerPlay Golf: Ignition.

Tickets for PowerPlay Golf: Ignition and the Saab Wales Open are available on the gate.

]]> Last year’s runner-up, Rhys Davies, will bid to go one better when he spearheads the Welsh challenge to produce a first home winner of the Saab Wales Open next week.

Davies shot a course-record 62 in the final round of last year’s tournament to be the closest challenger to eventual champion Graeme McDowell at Celtic Manor.

Three months before, the then European Tour rookie had claimed his first top tier victory at the Trophée Hassan II in Morocco but the £200,000 the Welshman collected for finishing second in his home event remains his highest pay cheque.

Davies, who narrowly missed out on defending his Trophée Hassan II title when he was beaten by David Horsey in a play-off this April, is understandably excited about his return to home soil for the Saab Wales Open from June 2-5.

“It's great to come back and play at home and to get back to the course where I had a final day 62 last summer makes it that bit more special,” said the 25-year-old from Bridgend.

“A few more people know you and give you that extra support. The Twenty Ten Course is one that I feel suits my game and the Celtic Manor is becoming a familiar environment for me.

“The work done by the Matthews family there deserves a good field of European Tour professionals and I just love coming back to my home country to play this event.”

Davies was also involved in October’s dramatic Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor when he was invited into the team room after being the closest Welshman to qualifying for Colin Montgomerie’s European team.

His run at the title on The Twenty Ten Course last June followed another runner’s-up spot in Spain the week before and came at the end of a superb run which saw him grab five top-three finishes in three months and propelled him to 18th place on last year’s Race to Dubai in his first full season.

He is again the leading Welshman on this year’s money list but Jamie Donaldson is not far behind after four top-15 finishes in 2011. Other established Welsh players in the field include Stephen Dodd, Bradley Dredge and Phillip Price, who have eight European Tour victories between them.

Challenge Tour graduates Stuart Manley and Liam Bond are also in the starting field along with Simon Edwards, who qualifies through his performances in PGA events, and sponsors’ invites Sion Bebb and Garry Houston.

No Welshman has ever landed the Wales Open but Dredge, like Davies, has finished second. His one-shot lead coming down the last in 2007 was overturned by a brilliant birdie from South Africa’s Richard Sterne while Dredge drove into a bunker en route to a costly bogey five.

The home hopes will face stiff competition in their bid to land this year’s title as world No 5 and current US Open champion Graeme McDowell returns to defend his title. He will be joined by three of his team-mates from Europe’s thrilling Ryder Cup win at Celtic Manor in October – Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ross Fisher and Peter Hanson – their captain, Colin Montgomerie, and vice-captains Darren Clarke and Thomas Bjorn, who have both recorded European Tour wins this season.

As well as top class sporting action at one of The European Tour’s leading events, the Saab Wales Open also offers spectators the chance to enjoy family attractions in the tented village and provides a great value, full day out. Children Under-16 enjoy free entry if accompanied by an adult.

Saab Golf Week starts early on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30th, when Graeme McDowell, John Daly, Ian Poulter and Paul Casey will be among a star-studded 12-man field competing in a brand new nine-hole, two-flag shootout - PowerPlay Golf: Ignition.

Tickets for PowerPlay Golf: Ignition and the Saab Wales Open are available on the gate.

Thu, 26 May 2011 14:57:10 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=20
Clarke, the latest European Tour winner following his success in the Iderbrola Open on Mallorca over the weekend, is among the star-studded field for the £1.8m tournament from June 2-5.

He will be joined by another Ryder Cup vice-captain who has rediscovered his form with a Tour win this season, Thomas Bjorn, their captain, Colin Montgomerie, and the man who captured the winning point, Graeme McDowell.

Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ross Fisher and Peter Hanson – all players in the team which regained the Ryder Cup from the Americans in October - also make their way back to The Celtic Manor Resort for the Saab Wales Open, which sees big-hitting John Daly make his first appearance in Wales.

Defending champion McDowell and Daly get Saab Golf Week off to an early start as they compete in a 12-person field alongside Ryder Cup stars Ian Poulter and Paul Casey, US Women’s Open champion Paula Creamer and golfing legends Gary Player, Ian Woosnam and Helen Alfredsson in a brand new event – PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, driven by Saab – on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30. This world-first event sees the launch of PowerPlay Golf’s innovative nine-hole, two-flag golfing format.

Clarke climbed back into the top 100 of golf’s world rankings with his win on a windswept final day on the Spanish island of Mallorca on Sunday. After playing a big role as part of Montgomerie’s backroom team at Celtic Manor, Clarke has now reset his sights on playing in The Ryder Cup once again in 2012.

“I still feel I have got a lot of golf left in me yet and I will be trying to qualify for the team,” he said. “I have still got an awful lot of things I want to do in the game.

“I want to start winning more frequently again. I am trying to get back into the world’s top 50 and I am now not that far away. Another good result and I will be back in there.”

The popular player from Northern Ireland made the last of his five Ryder Cup appearances in 2006 when he was at the heart of an emotional victory at The K Club after his wife, Heather, lost her battle to cancer the same year.

His victory in Mallorca was his first since winning twice in 2008 and his 13th in total on The European Tour International Schedule, a tally which includes two world golf championship titles.

Other former Ryder Cup stars teeing up in the Saab Wales Open include David Howell, Oliver Wilson, Soren Hansen, Niclas Fasth and Paul Lawrie, a former winner at Celtic Manor who has also returned to the winner’s circle in 2011.

Simon Khan, who defends his BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth next week, will also make the journey down the M4 hoping to regain the trophy he won in Wales in 2004 and in-form players among the starting field include David Horsey, Raphael Jacquelin and Anders Hansen.

]]> Ryder Cup vice-captain Darren Clarke will return to the Celtic Manor scene of so many European celebrations when he tees up in next month’s Saab Wales Open.

Clarke, the latest European Tour winner following his success in the Iderbrola Open on Mallorca over the weekend, is among the star-studded field for the £1.8m tournament from June 2-5.

He will be joined by another Ryder Cup vice-captain who has rediscovered his form with a Tour win this season, Thomas Bjorn, their captain, Colin Montgomerie, and the man who captured the winning point, Graeme McDowell.

Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ross Fisher and Peter Hanson – all players in the team which regained the Ryder Cup from the Americans in October - also make their way back to The Celtic Manor Resort for the Saab Wales Open, which sees big-hitting John Daly make his first appearance in Wales.

Defending champion McDowell and Daly get Saab Golf Week off to an early start as they compete in a 12-person field alongside Ryder Cup stars Ian Poulter and Paul Casey, US Women’s Open champion Paula Creamer and golfing legends Gary Player, Ian Woosnam and Helen Alfredsson in a brand new event – PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, driven by Saab – on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30. This world-first event sees the launch of PowerPlay Golf’s innovative nine-hole, two-flag golfing format.

Clarke climbed back into the top 100 of golf’s world rankings with his win on a windswept final day on the Spanish island of Mallorca on Sunday. After playing a big role as part of Montgomerie’s backroom team at Celtic Manor, Clarke has now reset his sights on playing in The Ryder Cup once again in 2012.

“I still feel I have got a lot of golf left in me yet and I will be trying to qualify for the team,” he said. “I have still got an awful lot of things I want to do in the game.

“I want to start winning more frequently again. I am trying to get back into the world’s top 50 and I am now not that far away. Another good result and I will be back in there.”

The popular player from Northern Ireland made the last of his five Ryder Cup appearances in 2006 when he was at the heart of an emotional victory at The K Club after his wife, Heather, lost her battle to cancer the same year.

His victory in Mallorca was his first since winning twice in 2008 and his 13th in total on The European Tour International Schedule, a tally which includes two world golf championship titles.

Other former Ryder Cup stars teeing up in the Saab Wales Open include David Howell, Oliver Wilson, Soren Hansen, Niclas Fasth and Paul Lawrie, a former winner at Celtic Manor who has also returned to the winner’s circle in 2011.

Simon Khan, who defends his BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth next week, will also make the journey down the M4 hoping to regain the trophy he won in Wales in 2004 and in-form players among the starting field include David Horsey, Raphael Jacquelin and Anders Hansen.

Fri, 20 May 2011 13:39:52 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=21
The Sport Industry Awards are Europe’s largest and most prestigious commercial sports awards and Celtic Manor won the award after a judging process involving more than 60 key industry figures and 50 hours of intensive scrutiny. Celtic Manor beat off competition from The O2 and Ascot Racecourse to win the award, whilst it was also shortlisted for “Best Use of PR in a Sport Campaign” on what proved to be a memorable evening for the Resort.

Celtic Manor’s Marketing and Commercial Director, Gareth Rees Jones, and PR Manager, Paul Williams were on hand to collect the award, which was presented by Olympic Gold Medallist, James Cracknell and TV presenter, Charlotte Jackson. The award recognises the venue that offered the most flexible, creative and meticulous approach to hosting events and serving the needs of its visitors in 2010.

Commenting on the win, Gareth Rees Jones said: “The whole team at Celtic Manor is delighted to have won this prestigious award. We’ve had a very memorable year with The 2010 Ryder Cup proving a successful climax to more than a decade of hard work from everyone involved in the Resort.

“The Ryder Cup effect continues to have a very positive impact on our business and we look forward to hosting more exciting events including the upcoming Saab Golf Week and Elemis Polo at the Manor.

“This award further highlights the calibre of our venue and the facilities it has to offer visitors coming for golf, family holidays, leisure breaks, corporate events and weddings.”

The latest recognition tops a remarkable 12 months for Celtic Manor, which is shaping up to host Saab Golf Week from 30 May – 05 June. It was crowned Europe’s ‘Golf Resort of the Year 2011’ by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the UK’s Top Conference Hotel for the fourth year running and the UK’s Best Hotel at the Meetings & Incentive Travel awards 2011.

Set in 1,400 acres of wooded parkland in the scenic Usk Valley, South Wales, The Celtic Manor Resort boasts three hotels, two luxurious spas and health clubs, tennis courts, shooting, fishing and the choice of no fewer than six restaurants, as well as its three championship golf courses.

]]> The Celtic Manor Resort, host venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup, has been named Sport Venue of the Year at the Sport Industry Awards 2011. The award caps a fantastic year for the five-star Resort, which was hailed as hosting the “greatest ever” Ryder Cup last October.

The Sport Industry Awards are Europe’s largest and most prestigious commercial sports awards and Celtic Manor won the award after a judging process involving more than 60 key industry figures and 50 hours of intensive scrutiny. Celtic Manor beat off competition from The O2 and Ascot Racecourse to win the award, whilst it was also shortlisted for “Best Use of PR in a Sport Campaign” on what proved to be a memorable evening for the Resort.

Celtic Manor’s Marketing and Commercial Director, Gareth Rees Jones, and PR Manager, Paul Williams were on hand to collect the award, which was presented by Olympic Gold Medallist, James Cracknell and TV presenter, Charlotte Jackson. The award recognises the venue that offered the most flexible, creative and meticulous approach to hosting events and serving the needs of its visitors in 2010.

Commenting on the win, Gareth Rees Jones said: “The whole team at Celtic Manor is delighted to have won this prestigious award. We’ve had a very memorable year with The 2010 Ryder Cup proving a successful climax to more than a decade of hard work from everyone involved in the Resort.

“The Ryder Cup effect continues to have a very positive impact on our business and we look forward to hosting more exciting events including the upcoming Saab Golf Week and Elemis Polo at the Manor.

“This award further highlights the calibre of our venue and the facilities it has to offer visitors coming for golf, family holidays, leisure breaks, corporate events and weddings.”

The latest recognition tops a remarkable 12 months for Celtic Manor, which is shaping up to host Saab Golf Week from 30 May – 05 June. It was crowned Europe’s ‘Golf Resort of the Year 2011’ by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the UK’s Top Conference Hotel for the fourth year running and the UK’s Best Hotel at the Meetings & Incentive Travel awards 2011.

Set in 1,400 acres of wooded parkland in the scenic Usk Valley, South Wales, The Celtic Manor Resort boasts three hotels, two luxurious spas and health clubs, tennis courts, shooting, fishing and the choice of no fewer than six restaurants, as well as its three championship golf courses.

Fri, 13 May 2011 18:05:52 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=22
The top trio are among the latest stars to confirm their entries in the £1.8m European Tour event which returns with premium car manufacturer Saab as the new title sponsor from June 2-5.

They will be able to share Ryder Cup memories with the man who secured the winning point, Graeme McDowell, and the man who masterminded the triumph, team captain Colin Montgomerie, who have both already confirmed their places in the starting field along with the swashbuckling American, John Daly.

Defending champion McDowell and Daly get Saab Golf Week off to an early start as they compete in a 12-person field alongside Ryder Cup stars Ian Poulter and Paul Casey, US Women’s Open champion Paula Creamer and golfing legends Gary Player, Ian Woosnam and Helen Alfredsson in a brand new event – PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, driven by Saab – on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30. This world-first event sees the launch of PowerPlay Golf’s innovative nine-hole, two-flag golfing format.

Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director, David Pugh, said: “We are delighted to see the heroes of October’s sensational Ryder Cup victory return for Saab Golf Week at Celtic Manor. I’m sure we’ll see many happy faces during the week when the players and their captain recall the mighty deeds and team spirit of that sensational Ryder Cup triumph.

“We look forward to all the players creating some new moments of magic on the spectacular Twenty Ten Course and on Bank Holiday Monday the spectators are in for a real treat as PowerPlay Golf: Ignition begins a full week of tournament action which does not conclude until the Saab Wales Open champion is crowned the following Sunday evening.”

With a smile and a cigar never far from his lips, Jiménez’s relaxed on-course demeanour belies a steely determination when it comes to closing out tournament wins and the 2005 Wales Open champion tasted victory three times in 2010 before making a telling contribution to Europe’s Ryder Cup success at Celtic Manor.

Jiménez paired up with Hanson to defeat the energetic American rookies, Jeff Overton and Bubba Watson, in the fourballs and the popular Spaniard beat Watson again in the singles to be one of only four European winners on the final day.

Fisher was also a tournament winner in 2010 when he secured his place in the Ryder Cup team by claiming his fourth European Tour title at the 3 Irish Open. The Englishman won two points out of four on his match debut at Celtic Manor, combining with Padraig Harrington for important wins against formidable opponents including Phil Mickelson and Jim Furyk.

Hanson won twice in 2010 – at the Iberdola Open Cala Millor Mallorca and the Czech Open – to earn his first appearance against the Americans at Celtic Manor, where he chalked up his first Ryder Cup point in partnership with Jiménez. The Swede finished the season in 17th place on the Race to Dubai.

Other Ryder Cup stars teeing up in the Saab Wales Open include Thomas Bjorn, one of Montgomerie’s assistants at Celtic Manor, and former Open champion Paul Lawrie, who have both returned to the winner’s circle this season, as well as Oliver Wilson and Soren Hansen.

With more of the European Tour’s leading players expected to confirm their entries in the coming weeks, Saab Golf Week is a rare opportunity for golf fans in England and Wales to see top tournament action on their doorstep. Tickets for both the Saab Wales Open and PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, driven by Saab are available at saabwalesopen.com with discounts or complimentary tickets on offer to those attending both events.

]]> Ryder Cup heroes Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ross Fisher and Peter Hanson will tee up in next month’s Saab Wales Open at Celtic Manor, revisiting the scene of their dramatic victory as part of the European team in October.

The top trio are among the latest stars to confirm their entries in the £1.8m European Tour event which returns with premium car manufacturer Saab as the new title sponsor from June 2-5.

They will be able to share Ryder Cup memories with the man who secured the winning point, Graeme McDowell, and the man who masterminded the triumph, team captain Colin Montgomerie, who have both already confirmed their places in the starting field along with the swashbuckling American, John Daly.

Defending champion McDowell and Daly get Saab Golf Week off to an early start as they compete in a 12-person field alongside Ryder Cup stars Ian Poulter and Paul Casey, US Women’s Open champion Paula Creamer and golfing legends Gary Player, Ian Woosnam and Helen Alfredsson in a brand new event – PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, driven by Saab – on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30. This world-first event sees the launch of PowerPlay Golf’s innovative nine-hole, two-flag golfing format.

Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director, David Pugh, said: “We are delighted to see the heroes of October’s sensational Ryder Cup victory return for Saab Golf Week at Celtic Manor. I’m sure we’ll see many happy faces during the week when the players and their captain recall the mighty deeds and team spirit of that sensational Ryder Cup triumph.

“We look forward to all the players creating some new moments of magic on the spectacular Twenty Ten Course and on Bank Holiday Monday the spectators are in for a real treat as PowerPlay Golf: Ignition begins a full week of tournament action which does not conclude until the Saab Wales Open champion is crowned the following Sunday evening.”

With a smile and a cigar never far from his lips, Jiménez’s relaxed on-course demeanour belies a steely determination when it comes to closing out tournament wins and the 2005 Wales Open champion tasted victory three times in 2010 before making a telling contribution to Europe’s Ryder Cup success at Celtic Manor.

Jiménez paired up with Hanson to defeat the energetic American rookies, Jeff Overton and Bubba Watson, in the fourballs and the popular Spaniard beat Watson again in the singles to be one of only four European winners on the final day.

Fisher was also a tournament winner in 2010 when he secured his place in the Ryder Cup team by claiming his fourth European Tour title at the 3 Irish Open. The Englishman won two points out of four on his match debut at Celtic Manor, combining with Padraig Harrington for important wins against formidable opponents including Phil Mickelson and Jim Furyk.

Hanson won twice in 2010 – at the Iberdola Open Cala Millor Mallorca and the Czech Open – to earn his first appearance against the Americans at Celtic Manor, where he chalked up his first Ryder Cup point in partnership with Jiménez. The Swede finished the season in 17th place on the Race to Dubai.

Other Ryder Cup stars teeing up in the Saab Wales Open include Thomas Bjorn, one of Montgomerie’s assistants at Celtic Manor, and former Open champion Paul Lawrie, who have both returned to the winner’s circle this season, as well as Oliver Wilson and Soren Hansen.

With more of the European Tour’s leading players expected to confirm their entries in the coming weeks, Saab Golf Week is a rare opportunity for golf fans in England and Wales to see top tournament action on their doorstep. Tickets for both the Saab Wales Open and PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, driven by Saab are available at saabwalesopen.com with discounts or complimentary tickets on offer to those attending both events.

Mon, 09 May 2011 10:58:08 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=23
The sponsorship deal with premium car manufacturer Saab launches an exciting new chapter in the history of the tournament which, since inception in 2000, has established itself as one of the leading events on The European Tour International Schedule.

Recent tournament winners include Ryder Cup stars Ian Poulter, Miguel Angel Jiménez, Robert Karlsson and Graeme McDowell, who will return to defend his title at the Saab Wales Open from June 2-5. McDowell, also the reigning US Open champion and the man who secured the winning point for Europe in October’s Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor, will be joined in the tournament field for the first time by America’s John Daly, the colourful big-hitter who has won two major championships.

Saab Golf Week will see tournament action begin early this year as an exciting new event – PowerPlay Golf: Ignition – will tee off proceedings on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30. Joining McDowell and Daly for the quickfire, nine-hole event – which features two flags on every green – will be Ryder Cup stars Paul Casey and Ian Poulter, US Women’s Open Champion Paula Creamer, Wales’ only major champion Ian Woosnam and golf legend Gary Player.

Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director, David Pugh, said: “We are very excited to sign up as the title sponsor for the Saab Wales Open at a wonderful venue like The Celtic Manor Resort. We have watched the tournament develop into one of the biggest and most established golf events in Europe and we are delighted to help take it to the next level as the Saab Wales Open. We feel that the innovative sponsorship approach in creating Saab Golf Week, encompassing the exciting launch of PowerPlay Golf’s professional series and the Saab Wales Open, is highly reflective of our brand.

“The spectacular Twenty Ten Course came to the attention of so many people during the unforgettable Ryder Cup played there in October and we look forward to seeing many of the superstars of world golf return for the first Saab Wales Open. We are delighted to associate our brand with such a prestigious tournament and such a stunning resort venue.”

Spectators purchasing day tickets (£25) to the Saab Wales Open will receive substantial discounts on tickets to PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, while anyone buying a season ticket (£55) to the 72-hole strokeplay tournament will enjoy free admission to the Bank Holiday Monday event.

Celtic Manor Resort Chairman Sir Terry Matthews said: “We are delighted to welcome Saab on board as the title sponsor of the Saab Wales Open. The Celtic Manor Resort has enjoyed a decade’s fantastic exposure as the title sponsor of this European Tour event and, in partnership with Saab, we will now be able to raise the profile of the tournament to an even higher level.

“With the launch of the exciting new PowerPlay Golf series on the Bank Holiday Monday, this is going to be one dynamite week of golf.”

Seven of Colin Montgomerie’s victorious European team at The 2010 Ryder Cup played in last year’s tournament and the international field of 156 players teeing off in this June’s Saab Wales Open will compete for a prize fund of £1.8m, with £300,000 going to the winner.

George O’Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour, said: “We are delighted that The Celtic Manor Resort has been able to attract such a prestigious sponsor and we welcome Saab to The European Tour family of sponsors. We look forward to the Saab Wales Open continuing to flourish on the celebrated Twenty Ten Course where Graeme McDowell’s putt at the 16th more or less set the seal on Europe’s Ryder Cup victory last October. Graeme’s return to Celtic Manor will be eagerly anticipated as he seeks to defend two titles in two weeks by moving on to the US Open.”

For tickets and information, visit www.saabwalesopen.com

Top Image - Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director David Pugh, left, and Celtic Manor Resort Marketing and Commercial Director Gareth Rees Jones launch the prestigious new sponsorship.

]]> The Celtic Manor Resort is proud to announce Saab as the new title sponsor for its flagship European Tour golf event – the Saab Wales Open.

The sponsorship deal with premium car manufacturer Saab launches an exciting new chapter in the history of the tournament which, since inception in 2000, has established itself as one of the leading events on The European Tour International Schedule.

Recent tournament winners include Ryder Cup stars Ian Poulter, Miguel Angel Jiménez, Robert Karlsson and Graeme McDowell, who will return to defend his title at the Saab Wales Open from June 2-5. McDowell, also the reigning US Open champion and the man who secured the winning point for Europe in October’s Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor, will be joined in the tournament field for the first time by America’s John Daly, the colourful big-hitter who has won two major championships.

Saab Golf Week will see tournament action begin early this year as an exciting new event – PowerPlay Golf: Ignition – will tee off proceedings on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30. Joining McDowell and Daly for the quickfire, nine-hole event – which features two flags on every green – will be Ryder Cup stars Paul Casey and Ian Poulter, US Women’s Open Champion Paula Creamer, Wales’ only major champion Ian Woosnam and golf legend Gary Player.

Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director, David Pugh, said: “We are very excited to sign up as the title sponsor for the Saab Wales Open at a wonderful venue like The Celtic Manor Resort. We have watched the tournament develop into one of the biggest and most established golf events in Europe and we are delighted to help take it to the next level as the Saab Wales Open. We feel that the innovative sponsorship approach in creating Saab Golf Week, encompassing the exciting launch of PowerPlay Golf’s professional series and the Saab Wales Open, is highly reflective of our brand.

“The spectacular Twenty Ten Course came to the attention of so many people during the unforgettable Ryder Cup played there in October and we look forward to seeing many of the superstars of world golf return for the first Saab Wales Open. We are delighted to associate our brand with such a prestigious tournament and such a stunning resort venue.”

Spectators purchasing day tickets (£25) to the Saab Wales Open will receive substantial discounts on tickets to PowerPlay Golf: Ignition, while anyone buying a season ticket (£55) to the 72-hole strokeplay tournament will enjoy free admission to the Bank Holiday Monday event.

Celtic Manor Resort Chairman Sir Terry Matthews said: “We are delighted to welcome Saab on board as the title sponsor of the Saab Wales Open. The Celtic Manor Resort has enjoyed a decade’s fantastic exposure as the title sponsor of this European Tour event and, in partnership with Saab, we will now be able to raise the profile of the tournament to an even higher level.

“With the launch of the exciting new PowerPlay Golf series on the Bank Holiday Monday, this is going to be one dynamite week of golf.”

Seven of Colin Montgomerie’s victorious European team at The 2010 Ryder Cup played in last year’s tournament and the international field of 156 players teeing off in this June’s Saab Wales Open will compete for a prize fund of £1.8m, with £300,000 going to the winner.

George O’Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour, said: “We are delighted that The Celtic Manor Resort has been able to attract such a prestigious sponsor and we welcome Saab to The European Tour family of sponsors. We look forward to the Saab Wales Open continuing to flourish on the celebrated Twenty Ten Course where Graeme McDowell’s putt at the 16th more or less set the seal on Europe’s Ryder Cup victory last October. Graeme’s return to Celtic Manor will be eagerly anticipated as he seeks to defend two titles in two weeks by moving on to the US Open.”

For tickets and information, visit www.saabwalesopen.com

Top Image - Saab Great Britain Ltd Marketing Director David Pugh, left, and Celtic Manor Resort Marketing and Commercial Director Gareth Rees Jones launch the prestigious new sponsorship.

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 17:09:04 +01:00 http://www.celtic-manor.com/viewNews.aspx?ni=24