golf courses Archives

Favourite Golf Courses I’ve Played – Joakim’s Top 5

Posted on April 3, 2025April 3, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Growing up with both my parents in the golf and hospitality industry, I’ve been fortunate to tee it up on some truly spectacular courses, both near and far. Yet, my top five selections aren’t just about prestige or difficulty. They’re about the unforgettable moments, breathtaking scenery, and pure joy the game has brought me. These favourite golf courses hold a special place in my heart. And not just for their beauty, but for the memories they’ve created along the way.

Source: Top 100 Courses Kevin Murray

5. Old Course at St. Andrews

Location : St.Andrews, Scotland

The Home of Golf needs no introduction. Walking the fairways of the Old Course at St. Andrews is a pilgrimage for any golfer. From the iconic Swilcan Bridge to the daunting Road Hole, every step is steeped in history. The undulating fairways and massive double greens provide a unique challenge. And the unpredictable Scottish weather only adds to the drama. The course required a steady hand and major focus, but at times, the nerves were hard to control! The only reason this isn’t higher on my list is that I played it during winter repairs and had to hit off mats—though that did lead to some interesting shot-making and extra spin on the ball!

Source: Heritage Golf Group – TPC Tampa

4. TPC Tampa Bay

Location – Lutz, Florida, USA

A former Champions Tour venue, TPC Tampa Bay delivers a challenging yet enjoyable test of golf. It was a last-minute tee-time decision—we hadn’t even researched the course. But upon arrival, we were greeted by pristine fairways, gleaming white bunkers, and the natural beauty of Florida’s wetlands. The friendly, welcoming staff added to the experience, and the clubhouse had some of the most creative, one-of-a-kind merchandise, including gear inspired by NFL legend Tom Brady. I still have my Brady-themed hat to this day! If TPC Sawgrass is fully booked, this course is a fantastic alternative just a short drive away.

Source: Las Colinas Golf

3. Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

Location – Alicante, Spain

Las Colinas holds a special place in my heart—it was one of the first full 18-hole courses I ever played. Nestled in the hills of Costa Blanca, this championship course is known for its immaculate conditioning and strategic layout. The Mediterranean setting, peaceful atmosphere, and world-class facilities make it no surprise that Las Colinas is consistently ranked among Spain’s top courses. From a young age, every visit felt like an adventure, filled with great holidays, family memories, and incredible experiences on the course. With my golf ability changing over the years, I was facing new challenges every time I played (and I might have been a little too young to drive the buggy back then, but what a great time that was!).

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses

2. London Golf Club – Heritage Course (England)

Location – Kent, England

Set in the rolling Kent countryside, the Heritage Course at London Golf Club is a Jack Nicklaus design that rewards strategic play. Not only have I had the pleasure of playing the course multiple times, but I also worked at the venue for six spectacular years. During that time, I was part of two Senior Tour events and a European Tour competition, experiencing the course in every possible condition. The balance of beauty and difficulty makes it a memorable challenge, but for me, it’s the late summer rounds, the amazing people I met, and the memories I made that truly make London Golf Club special.

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses – Patrick Koenig

1. Dumbarnie Links (Scotland)

Location – Leven, Scotland

A modern links masterpiece, Dumbarnie Links offers breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth, with wide fairways, dramatic dunes, and exciting risk- reward holes. This course is an absolute thrill to play. Beyond the incredible golf, the experience was elevated by the American-style clubhouse and bar, which provided the perfect setting to relax before and after the round. Sharing food and drinks while overlooking the course made for an unforgettable memory. Dumbarnie was the ideal way to round off a St. Andrews trip. I wish this could be a Top 10 or even a Top 20—there are so many incredible courses, unforgettable experiences, and amazing people I wish I could thank and praise. To every course that has welcomed me, thank you, and I’ll see you soon.

Joakim is VPAR’s Events Manager.

With golf and hospitality in his blood, growing up in the industry was inevitable. His first taste of the professional golf world came through an internship at London Golf Club, an experience that led to a six-year career at the prestigious venue.

On the course, he enjoys a steady 14.1 handicap, embracing the art of bogey golf while still chasing the dream of single figures.

After an amazing time in club operations, he made the leap into the events and tournament world with VPAR, where he has spent the past two years helping deliver over 400 golf events across the UK and Europe. With each event bringing new experiences and incredible people, the journey is just getting started—let’s see what year three has in store!

Favourite Golf Courses I’ve Played – James’ Top 5

Posted on March 19, 2025March 19, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Source: The Belfry

5. The Belfry ( The Brabazon)

Location: Sutton Coldfield, England.

The Belfry is truly a course that needs no introduction. Famous for hosting multiple Ryder Cups and British Masters events, it’s steeped in golfing history. I’ve been lucky enough to play here several times, including during my stag do, which made for unforgettable memories. The combination of great weather and fantastic playing partners (one of whom managed to drive onto the iconic 10th green only to three-putt for par) made for a day filled with laughter and enjoyment. The Belfry is beautifully set up for visitors, ensuring an immersive and thrilling golf experience, solidifying its place as my number five course. Each of these courses has left an indelible mark on my golfing journey, offering not just challenges and beauty, but also cherished memories that I will carry with me for years to come. I hope you get the chance to experience them too!

Source: Close House

4. Close House (Lee Westwood Colt Course)

Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne, England.

During a society trip to the North East of England, 20 of us embarked on a golfing adventure to play the Colt Course at Close House. A course that has played host to Asian Tour events and The British Masters. The property itself added a special touch to our experience, and the welcoming charm of the staff perfectly complemented the beautiful presentation of the course. We were blessed with magnificent weather, a rare treat in this stunning corner of England. The layout is challenging yet rewarding, and knowing it’s the home base for former world No. 1 Lee Westwood only adds to its allure. If you get the chance, it’s absolutely worth the visit!

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses / Kevin Murray

3. Dom Pedro Old Course Golf Club

Location: Vilamoura, Portugal.

While my international golf trips have been limited to Portugal and Spain, Dom Pedro Old Course left a lasting impression on me. Ranked the 7th best course in Portugal according to Top 100 Golf Courses, its tree-lined fairways and pristine condition year-round make it a true delight. Golf is often about camaraderie, and I cherish the fond memories of a group trip here, where laughter and enjoyment were as abundant as the picturesque views.

Source: Hollinwell

2. Hollinwell (Notts Golf Club)

Location: Nottingham, England.

Steeped in history and nestled within stunning surroundings, Hollinwell comfortably holds a spot among England’s Top 20 courses. The back nine will certainly test your skills, but it’s the 13th Par 3 that captures my heart, a signature hole that exudes charm and challenge. It’s no wonder this course serves as a venue for Open Final Qualifying; every round here is a blend of tradition and excitement.

Source: JCB Golf & Country Club

1. JCB Golf & Country Club

Location: Staffordshire, England.

JCB takes the top spot on my list, and I can’t help but feel fortunate to have played it twice. Thanks to a friend who works as a greenskeeper there, I got the chance to tee off at this exclusive gem. Despite being relatively new, the course feels remarkably mature, with the vision of Lord Bamford and JCB shining through in every detail. The facilities and practice areas are immaculate, and the spacious, challenging layout is clearly designed for significant events. Who knows, maybe a future Ryder Cup is in the works! With risk-reward holes that keep you on your toes and perfectly positioned tee boxes, both tour pros and amateurs can find joy here. The standout moment? The iconic 17th island green, a breathtaking 255-yard par 3 that needs no introduction.

If you want to keep up with my adventures in golf, be sure to follow my Instagram page @golfaddyventures.

Favourite Golf Courses I’ve Played – Niall’s Top 5

Posted on March 13, 2025March 19, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses/Gary Lisbon

5. Kingsbarns

Location: St Andrews, Scotland

Just six miles from St Andrews, Kingsbarns is a modern masterpiece that perfectly complements Scotland’s legendary links courses. Although one of the few true links courses built in recent times, it has quickly cemented itself as one of the world’s best golf courses.

Kingsbarns co-hosts the annual Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, alongside the Old Course at St Andrews and Carnoustie. This unique Pro-Am event pairs professionals with amateurs, with the final round played at St Andrews after a 54-hole cut. If the dunes at Kingsbarns could accommodate spectators, it would surely be part of The Open rota. It undoubtedly belongs among the UK’s top-tier courses.

Every hole here is postcard-worthy. And the hospitality from the staff ensures that your experience is first-class from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave. All in all, Kingsbarns is a true gem, a place where every round feels like a privilege.

Source: HSBC Golf

4. Sentosa Golf Club (The Tanjong)

Location: Singapore

Sentosa Golf Club offers two exceptional 18-hole layouts: Serapong and Tanjong. Since 2005, Serapong has hosted the Singapore Open, elevating its status as a premier tournament venue. Though slightly overshadowed, the Tanjong course remains a remarkable layout. It was originally designed by Frank Pennink in 1974 and later upgraded by Max Wexler and Chris Pitman. The 2016 renovation, which rebranded it as “New Tanjong,” solidified its reputation as a modern classic.

Fast forward to 2025, and Sentosa now plays host to Asia’s Major—the HSBC Women’s World Championship, as well as LIV Golf. If you ever play here, take my advice: spend extra time on the practice green. The putting surfaces are lightning-fast and undulating, providing a stern test even for the best with the flatstick!

Source: Trump International Scotland

3. Trump International

Location: Aberdeen, Scotland

Other than the 229-yard par-three 13th, all holes at Trump International Golf Links are laid out in a north-south direction along the rugged Aberdeenshire coastline. Some have criticised this uniform orientation. But what the course may lack in variety, it more than makes up for in sheer challenge and beauty.

With multiple tee options, the course caters to a wide range of golfers. But choosing the right set of tees is crucial. Stray into the thick, punishing rough, and your ball is as good as lost. Many of the green complexes feature subtle run-offs into bunkers or swales, classic elements of a world-class links course. The course conditioning is immaculate, with hand-manicured walkways that feel like plush carpets. I played here in 2021, and it remains a course I think about often. If ever given the chance to return, my answer would be an unequivocal yes. Words and even photos fail to capture its full majesty—it simply must be experienced.

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses/ Patrick Koenig

2. Torrey Pines (South Course)

Location: California, USA

Perched above the Pacific Ocean with mountains to the north, Torrey Pines was built on the site of a former military training center. Designed by William F. Bell and completed in 1957, the course has undergone several renovations. This includes a complete overhaul of the South Course by Rees Jones in 2001. It extended the championship layout to a staggering 7,607 yards.

The panoramic views from the course come free with your green fee but be prepared for unpredictable weather. Fog, wind, and rain can roll in unexpectedly, making an already challenging course even tougher. I had the opportunity to play the famous South Course just after the Junior World Championships. And despite shooting 100+, I relished every moment. With fairways no more than 15 paces wide and a rough that was brutally thick, accuracy off the tee was critical. Playing here truly deepened my appreciation for the skill level of the Tour pros. They make this gruelling test look effortless.

Source: Clearwater Bay

1. Clearwater Bay

Location: Hong Kong

Established in 1982, Clearwater Bay Golf Club boasts a spectacular clifftop setting on a rugged peninsula extending into the South China Sea. Some of its breathtaking seaside holes have drawn comparisons to Nefyn & District in Wales, Old Head in Ireland, and Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand.

A round on the Ocean Nine begins with four stunning holes. It’s often described as “the most thrilling opening stretch in Chinese golf.” The highlight among them is the par-four 3rd, which demands a 180-yard tee shot carry over the ocean—a truly exhilarating experience. I had the privilege of playing a role in organising The Clearwater Bay Open in 2017, an event on the PGA TOUR China schedule. That week, players such as Tom Kim, Callum Tarren, and Gunn Charoenkul competed in what is undeniably one of the most awe-inspiring golfing landscapes I have ever encountered.

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!

Five Reasons Why 2025 Could Be Rory Mcllroy’s Year

Posted on February 10, 2025March 6, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

Rory Mcllroy has had one of the most decorated careers in golf. But despite his numerous wins, there’s still that one thing eluding him: a major victory since 2014. Yet, as we look ahead to 2025, there’s a strong case to be made that this could finally be the year Rory adds another major to his golf player resume. Let’s break down why everything is aligning for him.

Source: Andrew Redington/Getty Images

The Swing is in Sync

We’ve seen Rory Mcllroy go through ups and downs in terms of his swing over the years. But it’s clear that his golf game has found a new rhythm since the start of 2025. His ball striking, particularly with the driver, has been as good as it ever has been. Rory’s been hitting the ball with incredible distance and accuracy. And when he’s dialled in off the tee, like he showed at Pebble Beach, he’s nearly impossible to beat. His ability to keep the ball in play, combined with his power, means he has the tools to take on any course this year.

The New Generation of Golfers

One of the interesting things about Rory Mcllroy’s career is that while he’s been one of the top golf players in the world for over a decade, he’s now facing a new generation of golfers who are hungry for their own victories. That competitive edge might just be the spark he needs. With golf players like Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa, and Ludvig Åberg coming into their own, Rory could tap into that extra drive. With that he can show the younger crowd that he’s still a force to be reckoned with.

Course Familiarity

Rory has always excelled on certain golf courses, and many of the upcoming major venues are places where he’s had success before. With courses like Quail Hollow and Royal Portrush on the schedule, Rory knows how to navigate himself around these courses. Also, he has a history of performing well on them. His past success at these venues provides him with confidence. He knows how to tackle these major championship setups.

A Desire to Cement His Legacy

At this stage in his career, Rory isn’t just looking to win for the sake of winning. He’s chasing something much bigger. It’s the chance to solidify his place in the history books as one of the game’s all-time greats. This hunger could fuel his performance in 2025.

No Pressure—Just Golf

Rory’s also been talking about how he’s been focusing on enjoying the golf game again, and that mindset shift could be huge for him. Golf, especially at the highest level, can be exhausting mentally, and sometimes he has been caught up in the pressure of winning another major. By embracing the joy of the game, Rory might be able to approach the majors with a fresh, relaxed perspective that allows him to perform at his best.

Here’s hoping that 2025 will be Rory Mcllroy’s year to take home another piece of golfing history!

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes.
Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland.
Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.

TGL Teams Breakdown

Posted on January 7, 2025March 6, 2025 by Stephen

Source: TGL Website

Source: TGL Website

Atlanta Drive

Players: Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay, Billy Horschel, Lucas Glover

Owner: Arthur M. Blank

First match: January 21^st 2025 vs New York Golf Club (7pm EST)

Source: TGL Website

Boston Common Golf

Players: Rory Mcilroy, Hideki Matsuyama, Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott

Owner: Fenway Sports Group

Investors: Rory Mcilroy, Niall Horan

First match: January 27^th 2025 vs Jupiter Links Golf Club (6:30pm EST)

Source: TGL Website

Jupiter Links Golf Club

Players: Tiger Woods, Max Homa, Tom Kim, Kevin Kisner

Owner: TGR Ventures

Investors: David Blitzer

First match: January 14^th 2025 vs Los Angeles Golf Club (7pm EST)

Source: TGL Website

Los Angeles Golf Club

Players: Collin Morikawa, Sahith Theegala, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood

Founders: Alexis Ohanian, Serena Williams, Serena Williams, Venus Williams

Investors: Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr, Alex Antetokounmpo, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kostas Antetokounmpo, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Alex Morgan, Servando Carrasco, Michelle Wie West, Shonda Rhimes.

First match: 14^th January 2025 vs Jupiter Links Golf Club (7pm EST)

Source: TGL Website

New York Golf Club

Players: Matt Fitzpatrick, Rickie Fowler, Xander Schauffele, Cameron Young

Owner: Cohen Private Ventures (Steve A. Cohen)

First match: January 7^th 2025 vs The Bay Golf Club (9pm EST)

Source: TGL Website

The Bay Golf Club

Players: Ludvig Aberg, Wyndham Clark, Min Woo Lee, Shane Lowry

Majority owner: Marc Lasry’s Avenue Sports Fund

Investors: Stephen Curry, Andre Igodala, Klay Thompson, John Stones, Alex Albon, Leonardo Fioravanti, Kanoa Igarashi

First match: January 7^th 2025 vs New York Golf Club (9pm EST)

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

10 Gifts You Can Buy for a Golfer this Christmas

Posted on December 23, 2024March 6, 2025 by Ivana Miteva

VPAR Premium Membership

A golf membership for the modern golfer! The VPAR app allows you to take your pick from over 40K golf courses and effortlessly track scores, stats, use GPS maps and compete against friends! A VPAR Premium membership will add an additional twenty in-app features specifically designed to significantly enhance your game experience.

Putter Fitting

A personalized fitting session to determine the perfect putter for your game. With expert guidance,you will find the ideal putter to help improve putting performance, and therefore lower your handicap.

ProSendr

A training aid which will improve your game and make your training more precise and beneficial. It’s used by lots of professionals and is highly rated in the golf world.

Personalised Pro V1’s

A dozen Titleist Pro V1 golf balls, personalized with your name or custom text. They are something every golfer needs but with a personal twist.

Waterproofs

High-quality waterproof golf apparel designed to keep you dry and comfortable in any weather. If you’re based in the UK, this is a must.

RipIt Grips

A set of RipIt Grips, designed to enhance your comfort and control during your golf swing. These innovative grips are made with advanced materials to improve traction and reduce hand fatigue. They are also very unique and stand out compared to most golf grips!

FootJoy Classics

A pair of FootJoy Classics golf shoes, offering timeless style and unmatched comfort. Known for their durability, support, and superior traction, these shoes are perfect for both performance and all-day wear on the course. You can’t go wrong with a plain white or black pair.

Fifty Places to Play Golf Before You Die Guide

A beautifully illustrated book featuring 50 of the world’s most iconic and exclusive golf courses. Perfect for any golfer looking to plan their next bucket-list golf trip.

Thermals

High-performance thermal golf wear designed to keep you warm in cold weather without restricting your movement. They make a big difference when temperatures start to drop low and can be used in day to day life too.

Golf Bag

A stylish and functional golf is a must, especially if you carry. There are plenty of options out there, with many different styles depending on what you like.

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.