World Championship fever hits Antequera

THE 13th World University Champion-ship has arrived in Antequera Golf being held over four days from 08 – 11 June. There are 22 participating nations with each country allowed to field a maximum of 11 players. The format is mens and ladies individual strokeplay with the best three gross scores counting on each day towards their respective team prizes. I mention ‘gross’ as most of the participants have a handicap of scratch or better! In fact, given the success of the collegiate system in the USA ( Luke Donald etc ), it may well be that the next Tiger Woods is unearthed amidst the dolmens and strange rock formations of a golf course only a 45 minute drive from the Costa del Sol? One to watch is Laura Kueny who, aside from becoming the most prolific player in US college golf history, has already qualified to play in the Ladies US Open this July. Expect a decision on turning pro soon. Team Great Britian is sending a full complement hoping to improve upon the bronze medals  achieved in both the mens individual and team events two years ago. Flying back from a recce golfing trip to the Czech Republic last week I found myself in the company of the South African team looking resplendent in their green blazers. This, despite the best efforts of Iberia to lose their clubs.
The 6,562 yard Par 72 course will be no pushover either which, contrary to some reports, can hardly be described as ‘resort golf.’ Having played it a couple of times myself there are some stunning views to be enjoyed of the ‘Lovers’ Peak’ ( it is a long story! ) and El Torcal Natural Park. In fact, the stretch from the 13th to the 16th is as challenging as any found down here on the coast. To coincide with the championship the EWN Golf Page has come up with some special readers’ deals in June. Play the course midweek and a fourball with two buggies will cost only 116€; weekend 156€ with no time restrictions in either case. Accommodation can also be provided at the 4*Hotel Antequera Golf or 5* Hotel Convento Magdalena. This is the perfect opportunity to visit one of Andalucia’s monumental cities. For those of you picking up their copy of the EWN early why don’t you head up to Antequera and give your country some support?

Tags: Antequera Golf, Championship