Ryder Cup legend Jose Maria Olazabal has opened one of the world’s most exclusive golf academies in the Maldives – inviting players to “practice in paradise”.
HONG KONG – The new Velaa Golf Academy by Olazabal on the exclusive Velaa Private Island features an idyllic 9-hole Par 3 course and high-tech swing studio.
The challenging layout is specifically designed for golfers to practice the Spanish champion’s famously accurate short and mid-iron game – featuring six immaculate greens guarded by bunkers and a lake, with nine tees from a range of distances between 65 and 180 yards.
“Golfers can hit all the shots imaginable, from mid-irons to wedges and short-game. In short, practice in paradise,” he said.
“I also want the experience to be appealing for both young and old, beginners and experts.”
“I hope visitors to the island will be inspired by what we have created and the experience enhances their enjoyment of the game I’m so passionate about.”
The facility headlines an array of recreational attractions at the prestigious new private island resort of 45 private pool villas in the northern part of Noonu Atoll, just north of Male.
Velaa Private Island fulfills a dream by Jiri Smejc and his wife Radka to create “the most perfect beyond luxury place on earth”.
“I’ve worked on some remarkable projects, but what they have created here is simply awe-inspiring,” said Olazabal, on his visit to officially open the academy.
“Jose Maria’s distinct style andpassion for the game was part of the reason he was chosen as our designer,” said Jiri Smejc, the founder of Velaa Private Island. “Renowned for his crispironshotsand fierce touch around the greens, the golf course personifies this great champion.”
One of golf’s most captivating new projects is being operated by the world’s leading golf management company Troon Golf.
Bruce Glasco, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Troon International Operations, added: “To have such an inspirational figure as the designer matches the unequivocal commitment shown by the ownership in delivering a resort destined for iconic status. It is the only golf experience of its kind anywhere in the world.”
Professional instruction is personalized with‘one-on-one’sessions at the indoor swing studio, which is fitted with all the latest gadgets for golfers to refine their game. State of the art electronic equipment includes a Flightscope simulator and latest high-speed cameras. But it’s not all serious nor aimed at experienced golfers, the Academy creates many different “Private moments” from pitching and putting with children and grandchildren to target golf competitions.
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