Langebaan Country Estate, the gem of the West Coast, celebrated the launch of their new driving range clubhouse last month.
The new facility complements the Langebaan Country Estate’s 18-hole Gary Player Designs, Black Knight golf course.
The resort’s head professional, Max Birkenhead, says, ‘I reckon this is the only facility of its kind in South Africa. We have three tiers of grass bays for up to 60 golfers hitting out to our 270m long-grass range.’
‘The tees here are all grass, cut three times a week to the fairway length of our main course. There are also two indoor bays for coaching and fitting using Flightscope, which allows me to scientifically evaluate swing technique and provide a fuller teaching experience. And if the weather changes for the worse we simply close the doors and continue in comfort from the elements, we’ve definitely got the best of all worlds,’ Max enthuses.
‘There’s also a great short game area with bunkers to hone your skills, and a purpose-built putting green is in the process of being constructed.’
An AAA PGA professional, Birkenhead has coached a number of top international golfers, including Danish pro Nanna Koerstz Madsen, who credits Max’s coaching for getting her onto the Ladies European Tour. ‘I love the West Coast and its welcoming people,’ says Birkenhead, ‘and it’s such a privilege to be working on a beautiful estate with great facilities like this.’
A purpose-built clubhouse with bar and entertainment area is attached to the Golf Studio and offers healthy food options, free WiFi for customers and a family-friendly entertainment area. There is also a larger indoor-outdoor entertainment area with braai facilities that has already hosted small and large golfing parties.
The mini pro shop at The Range stocks tees, balls, caps, clubs and various sundry items. There is a larger pro shop at the golf course clubhouse for everything else.
With its well-appointed accommodation options, extensive activity offerings and modern conference centre, the Langebaan Country Estate is a popular venue for holiday-makers as well as conference organisers. The Range adds yet another great venue.
‘The facility can be used for both intimate and larger gatherings,’ explains Chantel Reynell, Hospitality Manager at Langebaan Country Estate.
‘The Range facility was built and fitted for our golfers, of course, but it is in a fantastic location and could be used for team buildings, conferences and functions too – there is the clubhouse with all amenities needed as well as the large driving range which is perfect for break-away events or activities.’
‘And the weather here is amazing,’ Reynell adds enthusiastically.
‘In spring, the golf course and driving range explode into colour; in summer the days are sunny and long. There’s nothing better than watching our beautiful sunsets over the Langebaan Lagoon from the Range, with a sundowner, a bucket of balls and an 8 iron …’
The Langebaan Country Estate driving range (along with many other facilities at the resort) is open to the public.
For more information on Langebaan Country Estate, please visit www.LCE.co.za or call 022 772 2112. Alternatively, email: [email protected]
