2001 - marc

Golf Scene in Hungary

Britain is the home of golf, like so many other sports now popular all around the world. Perhaps it had something to do with those undulating hills and green grass offered themselves for an activity, which developed into a sport that is now also a social event. The political chanes in Hungary in 1990 encouraged the advance of middle-class games such as golf, but of course Hyngary has a fair supply of undulating hills and green grass too.

The article below is not just for those who are already enthusiastic golfers, but also for those who only now want to find out more about golf. For golf is an ideal complement to the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it means a different lifestyle, and brings with it new friendships and relationships.
Although golf is still in its initial phase in Hungary, golf clubs are being established one after the other all over the country. The first golf club in Kisoroszi was soon followed by new clubs in Bük, Alcsútdoboz, Tata, Pécs and Hencse. There is now a nine-hole course in Dunakiliti and several training courses, or Driving Ranges, around Budapest.
The best-known course of all is in Bük, the Birdland Golf and Country Club, and it is located directly right beside the Danubius Thermal & Sport Hotel Bük. It is Hungary's first course of international standard, it is a member of both the Hungarian and the European Golf Association, as well as of the Relais du Golf Hotels & Escorts chain, which represents the holiday resorts recommended by the Professional Golf Association (PGA). Traditionally in many countries important businesses decisions are not made at the office desk, but on the golf course. This is becoming increasingly acceptable in Hungary, as well.
Ever since Hungarian golf clubs realised this, they have launched a range of services and ammenities for their members and guests. Golf cannot be called a sport for the masses yet, but it is getting increasingly popular in Hungary. Hungarian courses and clubs meet all the international requirements.
Golfers can enjoy their game without regard to age or seasons. It is especially useful during the winter that golfers can keep in practice with the help of a golf simulator in the 19th Hole Golf Centre in downtown Budapest. This machine gives a realistic image of eight courses it knows from around the world. Golfing here is performed with the same clubs and with the same strength and dynamics as in the open.
And there is plenty for those whoi are more advanced in years. The number of senior players is relatively high in the world of golf. The Association of Hungarian Senior Golf Players has been operating for more than five years, and it is a member of the corresponding international organisation. Even before the Second world war golf was enthusiastically taken up by those who found other games a bit too strenuous for their age and, even in their seventies and eighties, they are able to enjoy a game involving stamina and technique.