The Marriott Forest of Arden will play host to many of Europe’s leading amateur golfers when it stages next year’s English Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship (Brabazon Trophy) on May 18th-20th, 2007.

The Championship will mark the first time the Marriott Forest of Arden has staged a leading international event since 2005 when it was the venue for the British Masters Championship for a fifth time.

“We are delighted that the Forest of Arden has been selected as the venue for the 2007 English Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship,” said Iain Burns, the club’s Director of Golf. “It is a great honour to be invited to stage what is one of the most prestigious Championships in amateur golf and we look forward to welcoming many of the game’s rising stars in eight months’ time.”

“I have no doubt that the Forest of Arden will prove to be an excellent venue for the Brabazon,” said Paul Baxter, Chief Executive of the English Golf Union. “It was a big favourite among the European Tour professionals when it hosted the British Masters and will provide an excellent test for what is bound to be an extremely strong field.”

This year’s English Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship was staged at Ganton Golf and attracted a 400-strong field from 26 different countries. The Championship was won by English international, Robert Dinwiddie (Barnard Castle), who recorded rounds of 70, 73, 70 and 69 to finish three strokes ahead of Ross McGowan (Banstead Downs). Jean-Jacques Wolff from France was third.

Dinwiddie joins an impressive list of champions that includes Ronnie Shade, Peter Townsend, Michael Bonallack, Sandy Lyle, Ronan Rafferty, Gordon Brand Jnr, Peter McEvoy, Paul Way, Peter Baker, Ignacio Garrido and Charl Schwartzel.

There are no less than eleven luxurious Marriott Hotels and Country Clubs dotted throughout England, Scotland and Wales and each has at least one Championship golf course, a wide range of leisure facilities, a choice of restaurants (fine dining or casual) and much more besides.
Marriott’s list of golf resorts reads like a who’s who of British Golf courses. There are five courses which have hosted men’s or women’s Tour events, two which have recently been extensively upgraded as well as several others that are perennial favourites with golfers of all standards.

Arguably the best-known resorts are the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel and Country Club, south west of Birmingham, the Marriott St Pierre Hotel and Country Club, in Chepstow, Wales, the Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club near Ware, Hertfordshire, and the Marriott  Dalmahoy Hotel and Country near Edinburgh, Scotland. Each has hosted premiere Tour events, the most recent being Dalmahoy, which staged this year’s Charles Church Scottish Seniors Open.

Dalmahoy’s championship East Course, which has also staged the Solheim Cup and the Scottish PGA Championship, is one of two Marriott courses to have been extensively re-modelled recently, the other being the Manor Course at Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel and Country Club which Ross McMurray of European Golf Design has transformed into a fine test of golf, good enough to host a PGA EuroPro Tour event for two successive seasons.

Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel and Country Club is the quintessential country retreat, based in an elegant English manor house at the end of a long tree-lined drive, and other resorts with rich histories are the Marriott Breadsall Priory Hotel and Country Club which, as the name suggests, is based in a 13th century priory, the Marriott Goodwood Park Hotel and Country Club, set in 12,000 acres of rolling ground just below the South Downs and once the ancestral home of the Dukes of Richmond, and the Marriott Worsley Park Hotel and Country Club, an idyllic property near Manchester and formerly the home of the Duke of Bridgewater

Marriott is proud of the wide choice it offers its customers, both in terms of facilities and geographical location, and that choice is extended even further by the exquisite Marriott Hollins Hall Hotel and Country Club, situated south of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, the Mariott Meon Valley Hotel and Country Club, near Winchester and the New Forest and the Marriott Tudor Park Hotel and Country Club close to Maidstone, deep in the heart of the Garden of England. Each offers a fine range of short break facilities, the course at Hollins Hall being described by former Ryder Cup captain, Mark James, as “the best new course I have seen for some time.”
“We are proud of all the Marriott Hotel and Country Clubs and believe they offer unrivalled facilities, both for the serious golfer and those individuals who have recently taken up the game,” said Stephen Follett, Marriott UK’s Director of Golf Operations..
“As an added bonus, Marriott Golf has recently introduced an exciting new ‘Kids Golf 4-Free’ programme meaning our resorts are ideal venues not just for couples, but for whole families as well.
“Under the terms of this programme, Marriott is offering a free round of golf for children under 15 years old, provided they are accompanied by a full paying adult and book a tee time after 3.00pm. In addition, Marriott is also offering a free lesson for kids up to 15, when accompanied by an adult who is taking a fully-paid lesson from a Marriott Golf instructor.”
The “Kids Golf 4-Free” programme is available at all UK Marriott Golf properties and a 52 Marriott Golf resorts worldwide.
Find out more about Marriott UK’s Golf properties by contacting the Golf Hotline on 08702 415017 pr by logging on to the company’s website at www.marriott.co.uk.

Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club is a fine 4-star resort and a great base from which to explore Edinburgh and the rest of Central Scotland

Back in the 1720s, when the Earl of Morton elected to build a stately home on an attractive piece of wooded land above the village of Ratho, seven miles from the centre of Edinburgh, he could never have envisaged that one day it would be transformed into an elegant Hotel and Country Club.
That said, the good Earl might well have understood the appeal this site would have for a modern international hotelier. After all, three hundred years ago, when he chose to build his family home on the site, the Earl did so, not just because it was secluded, but also because it afforded easy access to Scotland’s capital city and to the wider world at large. Nowadays, some 300 years later, those same attributes remain two of the most important elements in the success of the impressive Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club.
Set in over 1000 acres of stunning Scottish countryside, surrounded by woodland, lochs and with views of the rugged Pentland Hills, the Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club offers an idyllic setting for a short golfing break. But, as close as it is to Edinburgh, its international airport and the Scottish motorway network, it also provides an ideal base for visitors who want to branch out and explore the golf courses and other tourist attractions around Edinburgh, in the Central Belt and further afield.
It is no exaggeration to suggest the Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club enjoys a prime location and its 4-star facilities are no less impressive. The original manor house has been extended and now houses a sumptuous 215-bedroom hotel. There are two 18-hole golf courses, the East and the shorter West, a 12-bay driving range, a superb leisure club, complete with tennis courts, sauna, steam room and indoor pool and, if that is not enough, also the award-winning Pentland restaurant and the less formal Long Weekend Café Bar.
Golf has been played at Dalmahoy since back in the 1920s when James Braid, the Open champion in 1901, ’05.’06, ’08 and ’10, laid out the original courses. Subsequently, the East course has staged the Solheim Cup, the Scottish Seniors Open, the Scottish PGA Championship, as well as many other prestigious tournaments, while the West, with its small greens and tight finish round the Gogar burn, is a much more strenuous test than its 5,168 (par 68) yardage suggests. The most recent event held at Dalmahoy was the 2006 Charles Church Scottish Seniors Open, which was won in fine style by Sam Torrance.
 The East course has always been regarded as a fine test of golf but during 2003-2004 Ross McMurray of European Golf Design was brought in to give it a £1 million facelift. He supervised the extension of 11 of the existing holes, the construction of two brand new holes and a major overhaul of the bunkering. When re-opened, the course, which previously had measured 6,680-yards from the championship tees, had been stretched to a much more daunting 7,475 yards. Off the back tees, it had become a formidable test, even for the most accomplished golfers. Further forward, however, the East course remains eminently playable, both for the high-handicapper and the corporate guest. 
The East course starts with a 532-yard par 5 and two testing par 4s that measure well in excess of 400 yards. Then there is a fine 144-yard par three with a green surrounded by sand and two other excellent par 4s before the golfer reaches the 204-yard par 3 7th hole with its undulating green and panoramic views of the property.
The 7th is one of the most demanding holes on the East course but the 354 yard par 4 8th offers some respite before the first half closes with a 487 yard par 5 that sweeps down and right to a green set close to the hotel and putting green. It is also a hole where a score can be improved but only if the drive is accurate and the approach finds an undulating green surrounded by bushes and trees.
McMurray and his team made minor changes to the front nine but most of their work was done on a back nine that starts with a 540-yard par 5 which runs parallel to the 1st and continues with two demanding par 4s that can be stretched to 483 yards and 459 yards respectively.
The first of the brand new holes is the 476 yard par 4 13th and what a fine hole it has turned out to be. The tee shot has to be threaded through tees to a thin sliver of fairway and the second then has to be struck accurately to find a contoured green protected by a large bunker to the right of the putting surface.
The 13th hole is now No. 1 on the West course’s adjusted Stroke Index and there is little let-up on the new 423-yard par 414th either. Once again accuracy is the key to this hole. The drive has to be judged precisely to avoid trees situated both to the left and to the right of the landing area and the second then has to be hit over a burn to a green which is surrounded by trees that looks as if it has been nestling there for years.
The 13th and 14th are both fine additions to Braid’s original design and the great man would no doubt also have approved of the extensions made to the 428-yard par 4 15th and the 605-yard par 5 16th. The latter, in particular, is a formidable test and not just because of its sheer length.  Here McMurray has added two new bunkers to catch an errant second shot and also constructed an attractive green built into the side of a hillock.
The East course’s new 16th hole is a great example of how an architect can take what was a fairly standard hole and transform it into something rather more special. In contrast he felt the need to do nothing but lengthen the par-3 177th ,a hole that lives up to its name as a Wee Wrecker, but has had more input on the 460-yard par 4 final hole that traverses a deep gully and finishes on a new green built less than 50 yards from the original 18th century stately home.
Previous visitors might well recognize the new closing hole as an adaptation of the original 16th but it is not just the green site that has been changed. McMurray has also built a new championship tee to the rear and right of the original and from there a golfer has to strike a tee shot some 270 or 280 yards to leave a 165 or 175 yard second over the gully to a green protected by bunkers on both side.
“The new 18th is a good example of what we set out to do when we brought in European Golf Design to upgrade the original East course, “said Neal Graham, Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club’s Director of Golf.
“We wanted a course that provided an enjoyable experience for our members and hotel guests but also something capable of hosting leading amateur and professional events
“EGD met our requirements by designing holes that require length and accuracy from the back tees but feature none of the carries that are often the bane of an amateur golfer’s life elsewhere
“We believe the designers have done an excellent job,” added Graham, “and that has been borne out by the mass of favourable comments we have received.” 

One of the leading championship venues in the UK, the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club has announced a fantastic “Banish the Winter Blues” golf offer.

This special offer for £48.00 is available Monday – Friday until March 31st 2007 and includes: unlimited golf, with a maximum of 1 round on the Arden course, coffee and bacon roll, £10 lunch voucher and a driving range token.

The Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club is one of the UK's leading golf destinations and has staged numerous European Tour events, including the English Open and the British Masters. Next year it will also host the best amateurs in the country, as they compete for the prestigious Brabazon Trophy over the Arden Course, 18th – 20th May 2007.

Beyond the greens, this elegant country retreat holds even more pleasures: a blissful spa, tennis, a fitness centre, a pool, even a croquet lawn. At the end of each day golfers can retreat to a well-appointed guest room, featuring luxury bedding and high-speed Internet. The hotel has two restaurants, the Broadwater, featuring the very best in international cuisine and fine wines, and the Long Weekend Cafe Bar, ideal for more casual dining. Set on 10,000 acres of parkland in the heart of the Midlands, this distinctive Warwickshire resort is close to the motorway & rail networks, and is just 10 minutes from Birmingham Airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC).

Marriott Dalmahoy Golf and Country Club has recently become involved in a new initiative to bring disaffected teenagers to the resort to inspire them to take more interest in their school work. The youngsters taking part have been nominated by their teachers because they have become disengaged with their school work.

It is hoped that rubbing shoulders with seasoned golfers will teach the teenagers about dedication, good manners and respect. Children aged 13 to 15 years of age were invited along for a days coaching session at the Marriott Dalmahoy Golf and Country Club courtesy of Lothian and Borders Police.

Pc Kevin Murphy, from the Corstorphine Youth Action Team, who set up the scheme said, “It’s a chance for these youngsters to learn that, although life isn’t easy, you can achieve your goals by listening to advice and being disciplined enough to put in the hard work. Golf was the ideal sport to promote this message. Not only do you have to put in a lot of work and dedication to achieve your goals, but you also have to adhere to the rules of the game and learn the correct etiquette on the golf course.”

During the event the pupils received coaching and advice from PGA golf professionals Scot Dickson and Norman Huguet. They also attended talks about the psychology of sport and how it can be applied to other aspects of their lives, such as education.

Neil Graham, Director of Golf at Marriott Dalmahoy Golf and Country Club, said: “We are delighted to be involved with this initiative and to give the pupils a chance to play golf and learn new skills associated with the game.”

For more information please contact: James Lovett at GMS on +44 (0)1438 718399
james@gmsgolf.co.uk      

Marriott Hotels & Resorts is offering golfers the one-off opportunity to have dinner, bed, breakfast and two rounds of golf at its spectacular 5-star Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel & Country Club near Ware, Hertfordshire – all for a remarkable price of just £149 per person.

The Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel & Country Club is widely regarded as one of the finest golf resorts in the South East of England and was once described as “London’s Favourite Country Retreat.” The resort boasts a fine Jack Nicklaus II golf course, used as the venue for three English Opens on the European Tour during the late 1990s, plus a palatial hotel renowned for its award-winning Zodiac Restaurant and its stunning Health Club.

This unique special offer, which is available from November 1st 2006 to March 31st 2007, is based on two people sharing a room and includes dinner, bed, breakfast in the Oakes Grill plus two rounds of golf, one on the day of arrival and the other the following day.

Golfers who want to take advantage of this incredible offer should contact Marriott’s Golf Hotline on 08702 415017. Further information about all eleven of Marriott’s golf resorts is available on www.marriott.co.uk.

The programme is designed to make it easier for adults and children to play and learn golf together and to attract more youngsters into the game; Available at 10 Marriott Managed Properties in the UK.

Marriott Golf, the world’s largest resort golf management company, has introduced an innovative new “Kids Golf-4-Free” programme offering a FREE round of golf for children under 15 years old, provided they are accompanied by a full paying adult and book at tee time after 3.00 pm.

In addition, Marriott Golf is also offering a FREE lesson to kids up to 15 years old when accompanied by an adult who is taking a fully paid lesson from a Marriott Golf instructor.

The “Kids Golf-4-Free” programme is available at ten UK Marriott Golf properties and at 52 Marriott Golf properties worldwide.

The participating UK Marriott Golf properties comprise Forest of Arden Country Club (Coventry, England), Breadsall Priory Country Club (Derby, England), Hanbury Manor Country Club (Ware, England), Hollins Halls Country Club (Bradford, England), Meon Valley Country Club (Southhampton, England), Sprowston Valley Country Club (Norwich, England), Tudor Park Country Club (Maidstone, England), Worsley Park Country Club (Manchester, England), Dalmahoy Country Club (Edinburgh, Scotland) and St Pierre Country Club (Chepstow, Wales).

Participating worldwide properties include Camelback Golf Club (Scottsdale, Ariz.) and Grande Pines Golf Club (Orlando, Fla.), reinforcing the message that children can get FREE access to some of the world’s finest courses and that parents and adults can play or learn together, either on vacation or at any other time.

“’Kids Golf-4-Free’ is designed to promote youth golf,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations, Marriott UK, “We feel it is important that kids have the opportunity to play at premier golf facilities and hone their skills under the direction of the world’s finest PGA professionals.

“What’s equally exciting about this programme is that it further emphasises Marriott Golf’s commitment to growing the game and encourages families to golf together.”

The rules for the “Kids Golf-4-Free” programme could not be simpler. The Free Play Programme enables kids up to 15 years old to play for free when accompanied by a full paying adult. The programme, which is based on availability, is valid for one free round per child with each full paying adult. The Free Instruction programme enables kids up to 15 years to receive a free golf lesson when accompanied by an adult who is paying for a lesson. Both golf lessons must be taken at the same time with the same instructor. For more information on the programme, including restrictions that may apply at participating clubs, log on to www.marriottgolf.com.

Marriott Golf UK has shown its commitment to the environment by introducing a revolutionary new Waste Water Treatment and Recycling System throughout all of its golf courses in the United Kingdom.

 This innovative technology known as “Waste 2 Water” was bought in to deal with the vast amounts of grass clippings and other contaminants collected by maintenance machinery on the golf course every day. Marriott felt the ideal solution to this problem was to acquire the Biological Recycling Vehicle & Equipment Wash-Off System.

This closed loop “Environmental Activity Centre” removes any risk of pollution arising from the day to day activities in a golf maintenance yard by washing all machinery on a secure wash pad.

This environmentally friendly system is designed to remove any risk of contamination by breaking down organic pollutants such as Oil, Petrol, Diesel, Fungicides and Pesticides that are generated from the cleaning of equipment.

The procedure works by passing waste water through a honeycomb media where special microbes ingest the contaminants and convert them into harmless carbon dioxide and simple water that can be re-used. The efficiency of the system enables water usage to be reduced by 90%.

“With environmental concerns at the forefront of  today’s society we are delighted that we have been able to implement such an effective system that not only makes our courses tidier but will also be of benefit for the future,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott.

Marriott has now placed the “Waste 2 Water” scheme into all ten of its golf courses in the UK, and is looking forward to reaping the benefits both on the courses and for the environment in the future.

For more information please contact: James Lovett at GMS on +44 (0) 1438 718399 james@gmsgolf.co.uk

Marriott Golf UK has announced that its Marriott Rewards card holders will be rewarded x number of Marriott rewards points when they book a Corporate Golf Day at any of its ten Marriott Golf Destinations in the United Kingdom.

This welcome initiative is designed to reward Marriott’s most loyal customers and means that its Rewards card holders can accumulate points when they visit a Marriott Golf Destination both for business and for pleasure.

Rewards points can then be redeemed when purchasing holidays, cruises, flights, hotel rooms, spa treatments, shopping vouchers and much, much more. Frequent users of the scheme can also enjoy Elite Level benefits including room upgrades, special bonuses, gifts and other exclusive privileges.

“We decided that we wanted to reward our most loyal customers and felt this was a good way to do it,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott UK

“It means that Rewards card holders can accumulate reward points much more quickly than previously and should act as an incentive for Rewards card holders to chose a Marriott Golf Destination when they book their Corporate Golf Days.”

Marriott Golf UK’s eleven resorts all offer a wide range Corporate Golf Day packages which can be customised to fit individual requirements. Further information is available from www.marriott.co.uk  or by contacting the ten resorts direct.

Individuals who want to join the Marriott Rewards programme can do so by calling 44 (0) 20 7012 7312 or logging onto http://www.marriottmeetings.co.uk/html/rewards/index.asp

First-of-its-Kind Online Golf Resort Tee Time and Room Reservation System Now Available at the Forest of Arden and Dalmahoy.

July xx, 2006 – Marriott Golf, the world’s largest resort golf management company, today announced that the “Rounds & Rooms” programme is now available at select resorts in the UK, including the Forest of Arden near Birmingham and Dalmahoy on the outskirts of Edinburgh.  A first-of-its-kind golf resort reservation system designed to simplify travel planning by allowing golfers to simultaneously book tee times and hotel rooms, “Rounds & Rooms” is now being offered at a total of 21 properties and 28 courses worldwide.

Available at www.marriottgolf.com, golfers can select a participating golf resort and book their tee times and hotel rooms instantly online.  The new service marks the first time a collection of leading golf resort properties, based throughout the world, have come together to offer a one-stop booking solution that includes both tee times and accommodation.  Marriott Golf, the golf management organization of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR), is offering this service in collaboration with GolfHero, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based global technology leader in the golf travel industry, and EZLinks, operator of the world’s largest network for golf reservations. 

“We are happy to announce the addition of these elite UK golf properties to the Rounds & Rooms programme,” said Tom Enders, Director of Marketing, Marriott Golf.  “While the programme has been very successful to date, the addition of these prestigious UK-based clubs to our portfolio of destinations significantly enhances Rounds & Rooms on a worldwide scale.”

In addition to the UK venues, the golf resorts participating in “Rounds & Rooms” include: Camelback Golf Club (Scottsdale, AZ), Cattails at MeadowView (Kingsport, TN), Doral Golf Resort (Miami, FL), The Frog Golf Club (Villa Rica, GA), Griffin Gate Golf Resort (Lexington, KY), Hawk’s Landing Golf Club, Grande Pines Golf Club and The Faldo Golf Institute (Orlando, FL), The Rookery at Marco (Naples, FL), Mirage City Golf Club (Cairo, Egypt), Royal St. Kitts Golf Club (Basseterre, St. Kitts), Seaview Golf Resort (Galloway, NJ), Stone Mountain Golf Club (Stone Mountain, GA), Desert Springs Golf Resort and Shadow Ridge Golf Club (Palm Desert, CA), Westfields Golf Club (Clifton, VA) and Wildfire Golf Club (Phoenix, AZ).

Norfolk is renowned for the quality of its links courses and in the Manor Course at Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel and Country Club it has a true inland gem

The Manor course at Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel and Country Club is widely regarded as Norfolk’s premier inland parkland championship venue.
It was opened for play in 1980 but in 2003 Marriott brought in Ross McMurray of European Golf Design to give the course a complete facelift and the end result is a delightful rolling 6,527 yard layout that is not just a fine test of golf but is also thoroughly enjoyable to play.
McMurray utilised the mature parkland from the original 18 holes plus an additional parcel of land to the rear of the palatial hotel to create a memorable course that is popular with members and is an ideal venue for corporate outings, society golf days and short golfing breaks.
The designer has worked on high profile projects of the calibre of the Wentworth Hills course at Celtic Manor, the Marquess course at Woburn and the second course at Monte Rei G & CC in Portugal and he used all the experience he has gleaned to create a course that sticks in the mind long after the golfer returns home.
The Manor course starts gently enough with a 397 yard par 4, a 490 yard par five and a 172 yard par 3 but by the time you reach the 202 yard par three sixth you begin to get an inkling that the course is not quite as straightforward as it might seem.
The sixth is a fine par three and it is followed by an excellent 362 yard dog leg par four that requires thought as well as accuracy.
The seventh is the Manor course’s signature hole and is first of a series of short and tight par fours laid out to the front of the delightful 16th manor house that now serves as the resort’s stunning four star hotel.
The second nine starts with a straightforward 215 yard par three but then the challenge begins in earnest with the formidable 475 yard par four eleventh which is guarded by water down the left and a series of well-placed bunkers on the right.
The eleventh lives up to its billing as the No.1 hole on the stroke index and it is followed by an undulating 390 yard par four and a man-sized 565 yard par five which meanders gently uphill and takes the golfer up to the highest point of the course.
Norfolk is renowned for scenic links courses such as Brancaster, Hunstanton and Sheringham – all of which are within easy driving distance of Marriott Sprowston Manor – but nowhere in the county are the views better than down the delightful 160 yard par three fourteenth to the hills beyond.
One look at that picturesque corner of the course is enough to captivate even the most critical of golfers but if that is not enough he is then faced with the fine 412 yard par four 15th where beautifully-shaped bunkers provide the main threat both in the landing area and around the well-contoured green.
McMurray’s expertise in positioning bunkers also stands out on the attractive 478 yard par four 16th and the same can be said at the 189 yard par three 17th which is another of the designer’s new creations but looks as if it has been there for years.
By this stage in the round the Manor course will have left a lasting impression on most visitors and that favourable perception will be reinforced by the 558 yard par five closing hole which ambles back towards the modern clubhouse and is protected by a ditch all the way down the left.
“We believe that we have something a little bit special here at Marriott Sprowston Manor and that’s why it is becoming increasingly popular for corporate outings and short breaks,” said Adam Moule, the resort’s Director of Golf.
“It is a course which offers a fine test for low handicap golfers but is still manageable for people who are newer to the game.
“The truth is that it’s a first class resort golf course,” added Moule. “It’s a course that entertains but never overwhelms and that’s important because it has to appeal to a wide cross-section of golfers”.

Marriott Sprowston Manor Fact File

Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel & Country Club, situated in rolling countryside on the outskirts of Norwich, has reacted to public demand by re-introducing a Golf Only Membership package after a hiatus of over three years.

Under the terms of the new initiative, 7-day Golf Only Membership will be available at the renowned Hotel & Country Club for a mere £69.00 a month, while a 5-day equivalent costs just £57.00 a month.

In addition, the usual Joining Fee will be waived for the first 20 individuals who sign up for the new Golf Only Membership. The next 20 new Golf Only Members will receive a 50% reduction on the current £250 joining fee. Thereafter, the full joining fee will apply. 

“Over the last few months, we have spent a great deal of time listening to a large number of potential customers and have discovered that a lot of people wanted us to re-introduce the Golf Only Membership we used to offer until about three years ago,” said Adam Moule, Operations Manager at Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel & Country Club.

“We are delighted to acquiesce to public opinion and, from October 13th onwards, will be offering the new Golf Only Memberships in addition to our popular Country Club Membership, which gives members access to both our golf and leisure facilities.”

The new Golf Only Memberships provide all the usual Marriott Membership benefits, including reciprocal playing rights at 15 other Marriott courses in the UK plus 20% off food and beverage at the host venue.

The existing Country Club Membership enjoys similar benefits and also represents outstanding value for money.

A 7-day Country Club Membership currently costs £90 a month while 5-day Country Club Membership is available for £73 a month. There is no Joining Fee on Country Club Memberships until March 31st, 2007.

The Marriott Sprowston Manor, situated in Sprowston Park, Wroxham Road, Norwich, is one of 11 Marriott Hotel & Country Clubs dotted around England, Scotland and Wales. Based in a quintessential 16th century English manor house, it offers a palatial haven for golfers and leisure enthusiasts alike.

The golf facilities comprise a fine 6,547-yard 18-hole golf course and a spacious 27-bay floodlit driving range. The course was extensively re-designed by Ross McMurray of European Tour Design in 2003 and has subsequently been used as a venue for two PGA EuroPro Tour events. Five resident PGA-qualified professionals work out of the driving range, offering lessons to members, hotel guests and other visitors.

Further information about Marriott Sprowston Manor’s Golf Only and Country Club Memberships is available from the Membership Office on 01603 254296.

Marriott is renowned for its ability to organise first class Golf Days and that reputation is about to be consolidated now that the company has decided to offer a free Strokesaver course guide to every golfer who takes part in a  Corporate Golf Day on one of its 10 resort courses within the United Kingdom.

This unique offer runs throughout 2007 and means that its customers can save about £500 for every 100 golfers who take part in one of their Golf Days.

It also means even more significant savings for companies who organise several Golf Days around the British Isles during the course of a year.

“Marriott is well aware that the Corporate Golf Day market is exceedingly competitive and try to do everything we can to make each Day a huge success,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott U.K.

“We pride ourselves on our ability to customise our Golf Days to suit our customers’ needs and this special Strokesaver offer is just another example of our desire to deliver a great service at a highly competitive price.”

Marriott is the UK’s No.1 in Corporate Golf with 10 resorts in England, Scotland and Wales. These resorts include the Marriott Breadsall Priory Hotel and Country Club near Derby, the Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club on the outskirts of Edinburgh, the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel and Country Club near Coventry, the Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club in Hertfordshire, the Marriott Hollins Hall Hotel and Country Club near Leeds, the Marriott Meon Valley Hotel and Country Club near Southampton, the Marriott St Pierre Hotel and Country Club in Chepstow, the Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel and Country Club in Norwich, the Marriott Tudor Park Hotel and Country Club near Maidstone and the Marriott Worsley Park Hotel and Country Club on the outskirts of Manchester.

We are offering 10 lucky readers the chance to win a dream break for two in a great prize giveaway worth more than £5000.

Marriott Golf UK has shown its commitment to the environment by introducing a revolutionary new Waste Water Treatment and Recycling System throughout all of its golf courses in the United Kingdom.

 This innovative technology known as “Waste2Water” was bought in to deal with the vast amounts of grass clippings and other contaminants collected by maintenance machinery on the golf course every day. Marriott felt the ideal solution to this problem was to acquire the Waste2Water Recycling Vehicle & Equipment Wash-Off System.

The systems have enabled the creation of an “Environmental Activity Centre” at each facility, removing any risk of pollution arising from the day to day activities in the golf maintenance yard. Washing equipment, refuelling and chemical handling activities are all treated on the secure wash pad constructed as part of the system.

This environmentally friendly system removes any risk of contamination by biologically breaking down organic pollutants such as Oil, Petrol, Diesel, Fungicides and Pesticides that are routinely handled at each facility.

The procedure works by depositing the clippings into a wheelbarrow and then
passing the waste water through a honeycomb media where special microbes ingest the contaminants and convert them into harmless carbon dioxide and water that can be continuously re-used. The efficiency of the system enables wash water usage to be reduced by 90%, which has already proved invaluable at the golf courses situated in the south.

“With environmental concerns at the forefront of  today’s society we are delighted that we have been able to implement such an effective system that not only makes our courses tidier but will also be of benefit for the future,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott.

Marriott has now placed the “Waste 2 Water” scheme into all eleven of its golf courses in the UK, and is looking forward to reaping the benefits both on the courses and for the environment in the future.

For more information please contact: James Lovett at GMS on +44 (0) 1438 718399 james@gmsgolf.co.uk

Marriott Worsley Park Hotel & Country Club has announced a tremendous “Banish the Winter Blues” offer for groups of golfers. 

This special £32 per person offer is available 7 days a week until March 31st 2007 for groups of 4 or more, and includes:  18 holes of golf on the Championship Course, coffee and bacon roll on arrival and the chefs “dish of the day” on completion of play. Offer & tee times are subject to availability.

With its beautiful parkland setting, the Championship golf course at Worsley Park is designed to USGA standards and takes full advantage of the natural terrain and water features to provide a fair test for golfers of all capabilities. At 6,611 yards it requires application of brain rather than brawn to outwit the numerous hazards.

Set in over 200 acres of rolling parkland, formerly the Duke of Bridgewater’s Estate, the prestigious Marriott Worsley Park Hotel & Country Club offers a memorable hotel and golfing experience set within a world of tranquility and elegance, all just a few miles from the vibrant city of Manchester.

The Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel & Country Club, in Norwich, is delighted to announce the appointment of Keith Grant as its new Director of Golf. 

Originally from Blairgowrie, Grant brings with him a wealth of experience from his previous position at the 5-star Fairmont St. Andrews Resort in Scotland where he was based for two years. Prior to that, he worked at another Marriott venue, Hanbury Manor Hotel & Country Club, in Hertfordshire where he held the positions of Golf Retail Manager and Head Professional. 

Keith’s many achievements as a golfer include, as an amateur winning the Grampian TV boys championship. Since turning professional he has won a number of  events including, the 2001 Shotts Pro-Am, 2002 Cawdor Pro-Am and a credible 3rd in the 2002 Kirkhill Pro-Am. Keith also won the 2004 Open Championship pre-qualifying at Ashridge.

“We are delighted that Keith has joined what is an already strong and enthusiastic team at Sprowston Manor,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott UK. “His experience in the golf resort industry will be vital in developing the role of Director of Golf.”

Commenting on his appointment Grant said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me and one that I am certainly relishing. Sprowston Manor is one of the UK’s premier golf resorts and I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

The Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel & Country Club is situated on the outskirts of Norwich and is one of 10 Marriott Hotel & Country Clubs dotted around England, Scotland and Wales. Based in a quintessential 16th century English manor house, it offers a palatial haven for golfers and leisure enthusiasts alike.

The golf facilities comprise a fine 6,547-yard 18-hole golf course and a spacious 27-bay floodlit driving range. The course was extensively re-designed by Ross McMurray of European Tour Design in 2003 and has subsequently been used as a venue for two PGA EuroPro Tour events. Two resident PGA-qualified professionals work out of the driving range, offering lessons to members, hotel guests and other visitors.

For more information on Marriott Sprowston Manor & Country Club please go to: www.MarriottSprowstonManor.co.uk  or call + 44 (0) 1603 410 871

For further information on Marriott Golf UK please contact:
James Lovett at GMS on +44 (0)1438 718399
james@gmsgolf.co.uk

Marriott UK is delighted to announce that it will be lending its full support to the Golf Foundation’s “Commit to Junior Golf” initiative.

Members at all of Marriott’s 10 UK Golf Resorts will be encouraged to contribute towards the “Commit to Junior Golf” scheme, to achieve this an optional £2 donation will be added to a monthly medal entry fee.

Marriott UK has a long history of supporting junior golf, hosting such events as the Faldo Junior Series and the Weetabix Junior Finals. Marriott also has its own Kids Golf-4-Free initiative, where juniors of 15 years of age or under play for free, when accompanied by a full paying adult and book at tee time after 3.00 pm.

“We are delighted to put our support behind this fantastic initiative, said Stephen Follett,” Director of Golf Operations, Marriott UK. “Marriott UK has a long history of supporting Junior Golf and we believe the work that the Golf Foundation does for junior golf is vital for the future of the game.”

The Golf Foundation is a charity committed to the sporting and social development of young people through golf. Working on behalf of the national golf partnerships, the Foundation has made tremendous progress over the last few years promoting and developing junior golf. Greater numbers of youngsters are now able to experience golf through school-based activities, resulting in more youngsters participating in club coaching programmes before progressing on to junior membership. 

Mike Round, Chief Executive of the Golf Foundation, said: “We are hugely grateful to Marriott UK for supporting our campaign. ‘Commit to Junior Golf’ aims to generate additional funds to enable us to continue and expand our work creating and maintaining the pool of future members of golf clubs. We will be able to help children from all backgrounds to have the opportunity to play golf and enjoy a life in the sport.”

Using high profile publicity and regular communication with golf clubs, the Golf Foundation has set itself the target of 50% of golf clubs in England, Scotland and Wales agreeing to adopt the “Commit to Junior Golf” scheme throughout the next five years. This will raise an estimated £1 million per year.

To find out more about “Commit to Junior Golf” call 01920 876200
Or email www.golf-foundation.org

Marriott Breadsall Priory & Country Club is located in the Heart of England, just a few miles from the glorious Peak District and towns of Derby and Nottingham. Originally a 13th Century Priory, the hotel offers a delightful combination of old and new, with 112 guest rooms.

Adding to the idyllic surroundings are the beautifully landscaped greens and open, undulating fairways of two of Derbyshire’s finest golf courses. The Priory Course, opened in 1977 and designed by David Cox, is a parkland course that winds its way around the hotel. At 5,875 yards accuracy is a premium on this gorgeous tree-lined course. Set on the adjacent hillside, the Moorland Course, designed by renowned architect Donald Steele meanders its way through the spectacular surrounding countryside and is one of the few courses in Derbyshire that remains open all year round on permanent greens.

There are, of course, many other modern comforts to enjoy at the Marriott Breadsall Priory Hotel & Country Club. As well as two on-site restaurants, the hotel boasts an extensive range of up-to-date leisure facilities, including an indoor pool and fitness centre, to complement the golf courses and provide an ideal setting for any golfing break.

Breadsall Priory is currently offering Tee-Times for 4 people for only £99 Monday-Friday until 30th April.

To take advantage of this offer or book a stay at Marriott Breadsall Priory & Country Club please call 01332 836016 or visit www.marriottbreadsallpriory.co.uk

Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club will play host to many of Europe’s leading amateur golfers when the English Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship for the Brabazon Trophy is staged there on May 18th to 20th, 2007.
The Championship marks the first time Marriott Forest of Arden has staged a major international amateur Championship but it is no stranger to public acclamation because it has hosted nine European Tour during the last two decades.
Marriott Forest of Arden made its European Tour debut back in the early 1990s when it staged the 1993 English Open won by Ian Woosnam. Since then it has hosted six other English Opens won by Colin Montgomerie (’94), Philip Walton (’95), Robert Allenby (’96), Darren Clarke (2000 and ‘02) and Peter O’Malley (‘03) as well as three British Masters won by Greg Owen (’03), Barry Lane (’04) and Thomas Björn (’05).
“We were delighted when the English Golf Union invited us to host the 2007 English Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship and look forward to welcoming many of Europe’s leading amateur golfers to the club,” said Marriott Forest of Arden’s Director of Golf, Iain Burns.
“The Brabazon is widely regarded as one of the world’s top amateur tournaments and is even more important because this is a Walker Cup year.
“All GB & I’s leading amateur golfers are desperate to earn a place in the team to face the Americans at Royal County Down Golf Club on September 8th – 9th and a victory in the Brabazon at Marriott Forest of Arden could do a great deal to help them to achieve that goal.”
The English Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship was inaugurated in 1957 when Doug Sewell triumphed at Moortown Golf Club in Leeds. Subsequent winners include Guy Wolstenholme, Ronnie Shade, Clive Clark, Michael Bonallack, Sandy Lyle, Gordon Brand Jr, Ronan Rafferty, Peter McEvoy, Paul Way, Peter Baker, Gary Evans, Ignacio Garrido and Charl Schwartzel. Last year’s Championship was won by England’s Robert Dinwiddie at the Ganton Golf Club in Yorkshire.
Marriott Forest of Arden Golf & Country Club is one of Britain’s top golf venues and regularly hosts over 225 Corporate Golf Days a year. It boast two fine courses – the 7,213-yard par 72 Arden course and the 5,801-yard par 72 Aylesford course – as well as a covered Driving Range and a host of other indoor and outdoor sports facilities.
Marriott Golf is the world’s largest golf management company and currently runs 60 golf courses at 45 different locations. It is also the fastest-growing golf management company and hosts 1.5 million rounds of golf each year.

Marriott manages golf operations in 14 different countries including England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the United States, Canada, the Cayman Islands, Egypt, Fiji, Jamaica, Spain and Portugal. The company’s GB & 1 portfolio comprises 11 top quality Hotel & Country Clubs: Marriott Breadsall Priory (near Derby), Marriott Dalmahoy (Edinburgh), Marriott Druids Glen (Dublin), Marriott Forest of Arden (Warwickshire), Marriott Hanbury Manor (Hertfordshire), Marriott Hollins Hall (Bradford), Marriott Meon Valley (Southampton), Marriott Spowston Manor (Norwich), Marriott St Pierre (Chepstow), Marriott Tudor Park (Maidstone) and Marriott Worsley Park (Manchester).
Marriott is proud of the standard of all its resorts. This year the Marriott Praia D’El Rey Resort in Portugal was named as the European Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Travel Operators (IAGTO) – two years after Marriott Druids Glen lifted the same coveted award.
The English Open Amateur Stroke Play is one of several prestigious events to be held at Marriott’s British golf resorts this year. Others include the Oceanico Developments Pro-Am Challenge at Marriott Worsley Park (May 31st – June 3rd), the Ryder Cup Wales 2010 Welsh Open PGA Championship at Marriott St Pierre (August 7th – 9th) and the Charles Church Scottish Seniors Open at Marriott Dalmahoy (September 28th – 30th). Marriott is also hosting the latter stages of the 2007 PING Ladies’ Fourball Championship. Marriott Tudor Park, Marriott Worsley Park, Marriott Hollins Hall, Marriott Meon Valley, Marriott St Pierre and Marriott Breadsall Priory are venues for the Regional Finals while Marriott Forest of Arden hosts the Grand Final on October 2nd.

Further information about Marriott’s golf operations in the UK is available from Neil Gray at Golf Marketing Services on 00 44 (0) 1438 718399 (neil@gmsgolf.co.uk). Information on Marriott’s golf facilities and services can also be found at www.Marriott.co.uk.

Toro appointed prefered supplier of irrigation and turf maintenance products to all Marriott Hotels International golf properties

BLOOMINGTON, Minnesota (May 14, 2007) – Toro, the world’s leading supplier of specialist irrigation and turf maintenance products, has signed a worldwide partnership agreement with Marriott Hotels International.

Building on the strong relationship the two companies share in key golf markets, Toro will now become preferred supplier to all existing and future Marriott golf properties outside the United States and Canada until at least 2012.

“This is a significant step in our partnership engaging Toro to maintain and develop its world-class golf resorts across existing and emerging international golf markets,” said Andy Brown, Toro Corporate Accounts Manager for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Announcing the deal at the KPMG Golf Business Forum in Budapest, Hungary on May 17, Brown added: “Marriott demands the highest standards in irrigation and turf care and appreciates the benefits of Toro’s experience, expertise and quality of service. As a partner, we are a comprehensive resource working at every level of the business, from corporate strategic planning to professional service at the local level via our network of 107 international distributors.”

The partnership agreement means that Marriott International’s existing 28 golf properties outside the USA and Canada, plus all new developments worldwide, will benefit from the latest Toro technology and support to ensure the highest standards both on the golf course and around resort and residential landscapes.

Marriott’s portfolio of world-class international golf resorts includes 10 properties in the UK, plus leading resorts in Spain, Portugal, Scotland, Ireland and Egypt.

About The Toro Company
The Toro Company (NYSE: TTC) is a leading worldwide provider of outdoor beautification products, support services and integrated solutions. With sales of $1.8 billion in 2006, Toro is committed to providing environmentally responsible products of customer-valued quality and innovation. Since 1914, the company has built a tradition of excellence around a number of strong brands that serve a customer base that includes golf course superintendents, groundskeepers, sports field managers, landscape and irrigation contractors, fruit and vegetable growers, and homeowners. The Toro Company is headquartered at 8111 Lyndale Avenue in Bloomington, MN. Visit the company Web site at www.thetorocompany.com.

Marriott Golf UK has announced that its Marriott Rewards card holders will now be able to earn reward points when they book a Corporate Golf Day at any of its ten Marriott Golf Destinations in the United Kingdom.

This welcome initiative is designed to reward Marriott’s most loyal customers and means that its Rewards card holders can accumulate points when they visit a Marriott Golf Destination both for business and for pleasure.

Rewards points can then be redeemed when purchasing holidays, cruises, flights, hotel rooms, spa treatments, shopping vouchers and much, much more. Frequent users of the scheme can also enjoy Elite Level benefits including room upgrades, special bonuses, gifts and other exclusive privileges.

“We decided that we wanted to reward our most loyal customers and felt this was a good way to do it,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott UK

“It means that Rewards card holders can accumulate reward points much more quickly than previously and should act as an incentive for Rewards card holders to chose a Marriott Golf Destination when they book their Corporate Golf Days.”

Marriott Golf UK’s ten resorts all offer a wide range Corporate Golf Day packages which can be customised to fit individual requirements. Further information is available from www.marriott.co.uk  or by contacting the ten resorts direct.

Individuals who want to join the Marriott Rewards programme can do so by calling 44 (0) 20 7012 7312 or logging onto
http://www.marriottmeetings.co.uk/html/rewards/index.asp

Marriott Golf UK has ten golf resorts in the UK: Marriott Breadsall Priory Hotel & Country Club near Derby, Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club near Edinburgh, Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel and Country Club in Warwickshire, Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club in Hertfordshire, Marriott Hollins Hall Hotel and Country Club in West Yorkshire, Marriott Meon Valley Hotel and Country Club near Southampton, Marriott St Pierre Hotel and Country Club near Chepstow, Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel and Country Club near Norwich, Marriott Tudor Par Hotel and Country Club in Kent and Marriott Worsley Park Hotel and Country Club near Manchester.

For more information please contact: Neil Gray or James Lovett at GMS neil@gmsgolf.co.uk or james@gmsgolf.co.uk

The Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel & Country Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Clough as its new Director of Golf.

Clough, originally from Lancaster brings a wealth of experience with him, having spent the past 10 years as the Golf Director at the Belle Mare Plage Resort in Mauritius, which is well known for having hosted 11 Mauritius Opens and four Johnnie Walker Classics. 

Simon began his career in golf back in 1976 at the Lytham Green Drive Golf Club, on the Lancashire coast, where he served as an assistant to Harold Beck, the renowned clubmaker. In 1978 he joined the Royal Waterloo Golf Club in Belgium as First Assistant, where he had the opportunity to further his teaching skills.  He then moved to the Golf Club Grand Ducal in Luxembourg in 1982 as their Head Golf Professional for 9 years, before going onto the Bossenstien Golf and Polo Club in Antwerp, Belgium in 1991, where again he held the position of Head Golf Professional
 
“We are delighted that someone with such broad and extensive experience in the golf industry as Simon has agreed to take on the role of Director of Golf at Hanbury Manor, said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott UK. His experience will be pivotal in developing what is already a fine golf resort.”

Commenting on his appointment Clough said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for me and one that I am certainly relishing. With its fantastic location just outside London, Hanbury Manor is one of the UK’s finest golf resorts, I look forward to the challenges ahead.”

The Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel & Country Club is widely regarded as one of the finest golf resorts in the South East of England and was once described as “London’s Favourite Country Retreat.” The resort boasts a fine Jack Nicklaus II golf course, used as the venue for three English Opens on the European Tour during the late 1990s, plus a palatial hotel renowned for its award-winning Zodiac Restaurant and its stunning Health Club.

For more information on Marriott Hanbury Manor & Country Club please go to: www.MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk  or call + 44 (0) 870 4007222

For further information on Marriott Golf UK please contact:
James Lovett at GMS on +44 (0)1438 718399
james@gmsgolf.co.uk

North West Pro-Am set to welcome top golfers at Worsley Park

Oceânico Developments has agreed a new two-year deal to be title sponsor of the Oceânico Developments Pro-Am Challenge, which will take place at the Marriott Worsley Park, Manchester, from 31 May – 3 June 2007.

Now in its third year at the Marriott Worsley Park, the Pro-Am Challenge is the only event of its kind on the International Challenge Tour Schedule, and tournament promoter ISM is delighted to welcome Oceânico Developments on board for 2007/8.

The event not only offers the chance to admire the European Challenge Tour professionals in action, with the full field of players taking part over the first two days, but is followed by two weekend rounds played as a Pro-Am, where each professional will pair up with an amateur to compete together as a team.  This provides the chance for amateur golfers to tee it up alongside some of golf’s young up and coming stars, as well as a few established names.

Oceânico Developments’ Director Simon Burgess commented: “Pro-Ams offer a fantastic experience for all the players and we’re very excited to be involved in this one in the North West, which is home to some fantastic courses such as Worsley Park.  We will be there to lend our support to everyone taking part, and will have our latest luxury golf properties in Portugal on show for those who like the idea of golf in the sun.”

Launched in 2000, Oceânico Developments is the market leader in luxury golf, leisure and beach developments in Portugal, and its reputation for professional service and superior quality is now being extended to its latest developments in the Azores and the Silver Coast.

Paul Marlow, Marriott’s Regional Operations Director, added, “Marriott are delighted to be hosting the Pro-Am Challenge for the third consecutive year.  Having two years experience under our belts, and after such a successful tournament last year, we are really looking forward to making the 2007 tournament even bigger and better!”

ISM’s Managing Director Andrew ‘Chubby’ Chandler, himself a former European Tour professional, commented, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Oceânico Developments on board as new title sponsor of the Pro-Am Challenge for the next two years.  We thank them for their commitment.  We are again excited about the format of the event – it gives weekend golfers the chance to have some real fun and compare their own games to that of the pros.”

Entry to come and watch this event is free to members of the public so please come down and lend the Challenge Tour players and the local amateurs teeing it up alongside them your support!

For further information on the event:

Press Contacts –

International Sports Management Ltd – tournament promoters
Matt Kendrew
mattkendrew@sportism.net
Tel: 01565 832100
Fax: 01565 832200

Oceânico Developments – title sponsor
Rachel Builder or Helena Szehidewicz
Context
oceanicodevelopments@contextpr.co.uk
Tel: 01625 511966
Fax: 01625 511967

The Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club has announced that from the 23rd July 2007, its Mathern Course will undergo a comprehensive renovation program, designed to improve both the quality and condition of the course.

Included in the improvements that will cost around £750,000 will be; a complete rebuild of all 18 teeing areas, installation of automatic irrigation on all greens, green approaches and teeing areas, construction of additional bunkers which will also include renovation and re-shaping of all current bunkers, extensive construction of new pathways, re-design of area around the 1st Tee to give an impressive look upon arrival, and construction of new bridges over waterways. Extensive tree surgery is also planned to thin out existing trees. All work is planned to be completed by early October, with the course back in play by spring 2008.

Whilst the vast majority of work is focused primarily on the Mathern course, there will also be some alterations to the resorts famous Old course, with both the 8th and 9th greens being completely reconstructed. A comprehensive renovation is planned for the Old course in 2008.

“With its beautiful setting, The Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club, has always had a reputation for being one of the leading golf resorts in the UK & Ireland and we feel that the extensive renovations that are being done will only serve to improve the quality of golf and accommodation that our guests demand,” commented Ben Laing, Director of Golf, Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club.

The Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club is one of the UK’s finest golf resorts and has previously staged the Solheim Cup and numerous European Tour events. There are two championship courses at St Pierre; the Old course is a challenging 6,764 yard par 71 layout, whilst the Mathern course provides a gentler test at 5,748 yard par 68. Construction of new tees during the course renovation process will however give some additional yardage to the Mathern course. Both courses blend seamlessly into the magnificent rolling countryside and offer a great day out for golfers of all abilities

Beyond the fairways, this elegant 14th century country retreat has also undergone major renovations and boats a wide range of first class facilities including: a blissful spa, tennis courts, a fitness club, a pool and a whole host of outdoor activities. After their rounds guests can retreat to a luxuriously-appointed room, featuring deluxe bedding and high-speed Internet access. The hotel has two restaurants, the Orangery featuring the very best in International and traditional Welsh cuisine, and the Zest which offers a more casual setting featuring contemporary modern food. Set within 400 acres of rolling Welsh countryside, this idyllic resort is within 50 miles of both Cardiff and Bristol Airports, major motorways and rail networks are also nearby.

For more information on Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club please go to: www.MarriottStPierre.co.uk 

For further information on Marriott Golf UK please contact:
James Lovett at GMS on +44 (0)1438 718399
james@gmsgolf.co.uk

Renowned Danish shoemaker ECCO announces the appointment of Stefan Guest and Thomas Maymann to the key positions of Lead Footwear Designer and Technical Product Manager, respectively, within its global Golf Division.

In these new positions, Guest and Maymann will work closely with other senior team members, including Michael Waack, ECCO’s Head of Global Golf, at company headquarters in Tønder, Denmark. They will be tasked with continuing to expand the horizons of technology, design, comfort and quality for the brand’s luxury market leading golf footwear.

Responsible for the design and development for the golf collection, from concept through finished product, Guest will focus on striking a balance between emerging market trends and creating a clear and consistent design language that is unique and recognizable throughout each ECCO Golf collection. Most recently, the 27-year-old Englishman who holds a Masters in Design from Coventry University spent two years as Footwear Designer/Developer for ECCO’s Performance Shoe Division. He also previously served as Product/Concept Designer at LEGO Group.

In his new position, Maymann will ensure continued technical innovation that maintains and advances the brand’s well-known comfort, quality and performance characteristics. The 38-year-old native of Denmark began his career with ECCO in 1997 as Leather Inspector and most recently served for five years as Golf Division Product Manager.

“The experience, creativity and passion for the brand that Stefan and Thomas share make them a tremendous asset to our golf team,” says Andreas Wortmann, Executive Vice President, Branding and Products. “Their desire to push the envelope in all aspects of design and technical innovation is in line with our mission to produce the highest quality golf shoes for the luxury market.”

Preferred by Tour stars worldwide, ECCO golf shoes are worn in competition by Fred Couples, Colin Montgomerie, Stuart Appleby, Aaron Baddeley, Thomas Bjorn, Thongchai Jaidee, John Bickerton, Steven Jeppesen, Juli Inkster, Carin Koch, Pat Hurst, Sophie Gustafson, Laura Davies, Meena Lee, Candie Kung, Linda Wessberg, Wendy Ward and others.

ECCO’s Spring/Summer 2008 golf collection features unequaled comfort, style and performance in several new designs, including the distinctive C-Force Hydromax for men – the first-ever golf shoe to incorporate a Carbon Force Plate to provide unequaled lightness, flexibility, strength and durability. For women, the new ACE series offers a unique system of interlocking Truss Support Elements that creates the most advanced swing platform in the women’s game.

About ECCO

The only major shoe manufacturer to own and manage the entire value chain from cow to consumer, ECCO is a global leader in city, casual and sport shoes for men, women and children. In 2006, the Danish company sold more than 14.8 million pairs, achieving net revenues of 4.5 billion DKK (approximately 645 million euros).

Founded in 1963 by Karl Toosbuy, ECCO has nearly 13,000 employees, direct subsidiaries in Europe, the Far East and North America, and partners worldwide. ECCO shoes are sold in more than 3,000 shops globally, including 551 mono-brand (ECCO exclusive) stores.

Following the rules of good craftsmanship to deliver genuine freedom of movement and comfort to consumers, ECCO's aim has never been to be the biggest, but always to be the best.

For further inspiration, please visit www.eccogolf.com. 

For Press Information please contact James Lovett at GMS on 01438 718399 or email james@gmsgolf.co.uk

Please find attached a flyer advertising our reduced rates for Corporate Golf this year. We are now offering Corporate golf for groups of 12 people or more, from just £99.00 per person!
The price includes everything you will need for your golf day:
Driving range token
Coffee and bacon rolls on arrival
18 holes of golf on the championship Arden Course
Strokesaver
1 x Longest drive and nearest the pin competition
3 Course meal and private room hire
Dates are subject to availability so please call now to book. You can call the hotel directly on 01676  522335 (option 4) or call me directly on the details listed below.
For information about Golf at the Marriott Forest of Arden, visit the Marriott Golf website - www.MarriottGolf.com/ForestOfArden
For information about Corporate Golf at the Marriott Forest of Arden, click here to view the stunning video detailing every aspect of this championship venue.
Play championship golf this summer for just a fraction of the price at the Marriott Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club.

Members are rewarded for planning Corporate Golf at Marriott® Hotels & Country Clubs in the United Kingdom

Marriott Golf announces Marriott Rewards members can now earn Marriott Rewards points with Rewarding Events when they plan Corporate Golf Days at any of its ten spectacular Marriott golf destinations in the United Kingdom.

Members of the award-winning loyalty programme earn 40 Marriott Rewards points for every ₤10 spent on a Corporate Gold Day, up to a maximum of 50,000 points per event.   Members may also earn Silver Elite status in the programme after holding just two events.

“We decided that we wanted to reward our most loyal customers who book these golf events and felt this was a good way to do it,” said Stephen Follett, Director of Golf Operations for Marriott UK.  “Marriott Rewards members can now earn Marriott Rewards points when they choose a Marriott golf destination for their Corporate Golf Days.”

Marriott Golf UK’s ten resorts all offer a wide range Corporate Golf Day packages which can be customised to fit individual requirements. Further information is available from www.marriott.co.uk  or by contacting the ten resorts direct.

Individuals can join Marriott Rewards by visiting www.marriott.co.uk or by calling 0800 328 3153.  For general enquiries, please call 44 (0) 20 7012 7312 or log onto www.marriott.co.uk/rewards

Marriott Rewards points may be redeemed for more than 250 rewards including hotel stays, airline miles, car rentals, cruises, spa treatments, shopping vouchers and more. Frequent users of the programme can also enjoy Elite status benefits including room upgrades, special bonuses, gifts and other exclusive privileges.

The Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel & Country Club, near Norwich has launched a fantastic “Time fore nine” membership offer aimed at the golfing enthusiast who is trapped for time.

Designed to appeal to those for whom time is of the essence, this nine-hole membership offer for £362.00 is available from April to September 2008 and consists of: unlimited nine holes after 3pm, special guest & buggy hire rates, golf shop & driving range discounts and exclusive food and beverage package. Offer is subject to availability and standard terms and conditions apply.

The Marriott Sprowston Manor is situated in Sprowston Park, Norwich and is one of 10 Marriott Hotel & Country Clubs dotted around England, Scotland and Wales. Based in a quintessential 16th century English manor house, it offers a palatial haven for golfers and leisure enthusiasts alike.

The golf facilities comprise a fine 6,547-yard 18-hole golf course and a recently refurbished spacious 27-bay floodlit driving range, offering the latest Gasp technology and luxury facilities. The course was extensively re-designed by Ross McMurray of European Tour Design in 2003 and has subsequently been used as a venue for two PGA EuroPro Tour events. Five resident PGA-qualified professionals work out of the driving range, offering lessons to members, hotel guests and other visitors.

The Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club has undergone a major transformation over the past year and has recently announced the completion of   a number of projects designed to improve both the quality of its hotel and golf courses.

Both the resorts Mathern and Old courses have undergone a £1.8 million remodel specifically designed to create 2 courses which will play to a high standard all year round. The golf development is just part of a £7 million investment at the Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club that includes a complete refurbishment of bedrooms, restaurants & bars, Leisure club and spa.

The Mathern Course has recently reopened, with work taking place throughout the summer of 2007, and the Old Course looks set to be fully open in June. Both courses feature new re-designed teeing areas, renovated, re-shaped and additional bunkers, a new automatic irrigation system on all greens, green approaches and teeing areas, new pathways, landscaped area around the 1st Tee giving an impressive look upon arrival, and new bridges over waterways. The 7th Hole on the Old Course has been completely redesigned from a par 4 to a dogleg right par 5 - taking the course over 7000 yards and creating a par of 72. The course will also feature two new greens when it reopens and there are plans to replace a further two greens a year over the next two years. All course design changes were undertaken by Ross McMurray of European Golf Design (EGD) and completed by Delta Golf.
 
“With its beautiful setting, St Pierre, has always had a reputation for being one of the leading golf resorts in the UK and now we feel that the extensive renovations will only serve to improve the quality of golf and accommodation that our guests demand,” commented Will Hewitt, Director of Golf, Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club.

The Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club is one of the UK’s finest golf resorts and has proudly staged the Solheim Cup and numerous European Tour events. There are two championship courses at St Pierre; the challenging par 72 Old Course and the Mathern Course, which at 5,748 yards par 68 provides a gentler test. Both courses benefit from the magnificent surrounding rolling countryside and offer a great experience for golfers of all abilities

Beyond the fairways, this elegant 14th century country retreat has also undergone major renovations and boats a wide range of first class facilities including: a blissful spa, tennis courts, a fitness club, a pool and a whole host of outdoor activities. After their rounds guests can retreat to a luxuriously-appointed room, featuring deluxe bedding and high-speed Internet access. The hotel has two restaurants, the Orangery featuring the very best in International and traditional Welsh cuisine, and the Zest which offers a more casual setting featuring contemporary modern food. Set within 400 acres of rolling Welsh countryside, this idyllic resort is within 50 miles of both Cardiff and Bristol Airports, major motorways and rail networks are also nearby.

For more information on Marriott St Pierre Hotel & Country Club please go to: www.stpierregolf.com

For further information on Marriott Golf UK please contact:
James Lovett at GMS on +44 (0)1438 718399
james@gmsgolf.co.uk