Just over an hour from Calais is one of Europe’s prettiest cities, Bruges. It is known as the Venice of the North and is famous for its beautiful canals and architecture. We stayed at the wonderful Dukes Palace Hotel, which, as the name suggests is inside a 15th Century palace. The rooms are luxuriously designed and the location of the hotel is absolutely perfect with a large selection of restaurants all within a few minutes walk.
The golf programme for the week included one round on each of Damme, Royal Zoute, Royal Latem and Royal Ostend.
Round 1: Zack Rothwell Sets the Pace
The weather was just perfect for the first round which took place at Damme. Whilst this is quite a tight course, it is very playable if you are on your game. The early running came from Zack Rothwell, who playing in his first Greencard event, managed an excellent 33 points. Zack’s Dad, David Rothwell and Neil Gillam both finished the day on 30. Tim Elliott was one further back on 29.
Round 2: Unique Experience at Royal Zoute
The sun continued to shine the following day as we visited Royal Z
oute for the second round. Rated at number 8 in Europe by Golf Digest, Belgium’s top course was designed by Harry Colt in 1907. It has a unique feel of a links layout in the forest. It is a must play on a visit to this part of the world.
The day once again belonged to Zack. His brilliant 38 points ensured that the lead at the half way stage was 9 from Neil Gillam, who scored a solid 32 points. Meanwhile, Martin Fell’s 31 ensured he moved into third. Tim Elliott and Dave Rothwell were just a point further back.
Round 3: High Scoring at Royal Latem
The third round was played at Royal Latem. This is another centurion that has hosted The Belgium Open on three occasions. Whilst not the longest course on the schedule it is 
very technical and beautifully maintained.
The scores here were higher with the majority of the group scoring 30 points and above. The chasing pack were trying to put pressure on the leader with Martin Fell scoring 36, Dave Rothwell 34 and Tim Elliott 33. However, Zack continued his wonderful form by shooting 37 and extending his lead to 14 points going into the final round.
Final Round: Battle of the Rothwell’s!
The following morning we checked out of the hotel and made the relatively short journey to Royal Ostend Golf Club. This is a true links course being located on the coastline of the North Sea. Although it is not hugely long, the sea breeze more than compensates.
We all knew that the chances of anybody overcoming the 14 point gap to Rothwell Jnr – Zack were slim
to say the least. However, in this game nothing is a given as the front nine proved.At the turn our in form leader had only managed 12 points, giving a glimmer of hope to the chasing pack.
David Rothwell was making a move scoring 18 points after nine. The question was whether Zack could hold on and have a better back nine. A double bogey on the 10th hole can’t have helped his nerves, but it all changed two holes later when he carded a wonderful birdie and four points. This steadied the ship and allowed him to finish the back nine with 17 points and take his overall total to 137.
Zack Wins the Day
While Zack held on for the victory, David Rothwell’s final round of 34 was enough to
move him into second place. Neil Gillam’s consistent play throughout the week allowed him to take third, whilst Tim Elliott finished one point and place further back.
Bruges: A Golf Destination Gem – We’ll Be Back
Although we were a small group, this was a wonderful week of golf. The venue, for a short break, is superb. The journey over by Eurotunnel is quick and easy with only a 90 minute drive to the hotel once you arrive in Calais.
The combination of a luxury hotel, its location in the centre of Bruges, the ease of walking to a large selection of restaurants in the evening and the variety of courses on offer ensures that this is a venue we will be repeating in 2018. If you missed out this time, try to make the next one I think you will love it.