KGA ropes in Troon International to oversee course improvements

By Rahul Banerji

Bangalore’s blue riband Karnataka Golf Association (KGA) has tied up with the International Division of Scottsdale-based Troon, market leader in golf course management, development and marketing to work on improvements to the course, the Arizona-headquartered company has said.

Home to successful professionals like Panasonic Open India winner Khalin Joshi and Take Masters champion Viraj Madappa — both in action at the Volvo China Open — the par-72, 6,945-yard KGA course is one of India’s busiest, if not the most used already, and clearly the focus seems to be on further improving golfing facilities

Recently, the KGA has played host to two professional events, the Take Masters and the Bengaluru Open.

The Troon statement, also published by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), quoted KGA president Harish Shetty, as saying, “We are delighted to be able to call on the worldwide expertise that Troon International provides and look forward to seeing improvements to the course condition as a result of their advice.”

‘International standards’

Troon International will work with the team at KGA to enhance the course and push it into the international sphere, attracting players globally. Through their expertise in agronomy and golf course conditioning, Troon will help to guide the green-keeping team to ensure that the course is kept in top condition year round, the statement said.

Designed by Thomson Woolveridge and Associates, set up by three-time Indian Open winner (including the very first edition in 1964) Peter Thomson of Australia, the KGA first threw its doors open as a nine-hole course in 1986, before it was launched as a full-fledged 18-hole course in 1989.

“The Karnataka Golf Association houses a fantastic course and a wide range of facilities” Mark Chapleski, president of Troon International, said.

‘Great potential’

“These amenities give the complex the potential to be a world class golfing destination and Troon are thoroughly looking forward to working in developing its agronomic reputation alongside the staff currently on the ground,” he pointed out.

The KGA complex – besides the testing course – also houses a driving range, clubhouse, swimming pool and gym. These features separate the complex from surrounding courses in Karnataka’s capital city and present the potential to become an international destination, Troon International said.

Troon’s experience in golf course management will be integral in this development and their staff will ensure that result, the statement said.

KGA is the second course that Troon International works with in Bangalore after the picturesque Prestige Golfshire Club on the outskirts of the city which has been part of the Troon portfolio for more than seven years.

Also read: Sleepy NGC course almost trips up Chikka’s victory run