[VIETNAM GOLF COURSE INSPECTION] ChiLinh Golf - Natural masterpieces create unique challenges  12:09, 23/07/2024

ChiLinh Golf is situated between Hanoi and the renowned tourist attraction of Ha Long Bay. We departed early and took nearly two hours to reach the course. Despite persistent rain in the northern region during the initial days of our survey, we were fortunate that the weather began to clear up on the day we arrived at Chi Linh Golf.

The management and staff of Chi Linh Golf Course extended a warm welcome to us. Our brunch was promptly organized, and our golf bags were seamlessly loaded onto the cart, with caddies ready to assist. It was evident that the Chi Linh Golf team had meticulously prepared for our visit.

ChiLinh Golf was designed and constructed by Independent Golf Course Services, a premier golf course construction firm in Australia. The facility encompasses 27 holes, organized into three distinct 9-hole courses: Mountain, Lake, and Valley. From the outset of the project, the design philosophy for ChiLinh Golf emphasized a profound respect for the natural terrain and soil. By leveraging the unique features of the landscape, the course has been skillfully developed from a scenic valley, encircled by hills and charming streams, into a formidable challenge for even the most skilled golfers.

The Lake Course and the Valley Course both traverse a significant natural lake, strategically designed to incorporate water features on the majority of the holes. Certain holes are specifically crafted to provide players with a sense of "adventure" as they take their shots over the lake. In addition to the stunning and enchanting scenery, golfers will encounter a variety of terrains, offering them the chance to face intriguing challenges throughout 18 holes.

Among the golf holes that left a lasting impression on us at ChiLinh Golf, hole #2 (par-4) of the Valley Course stands out, measuring 373 yards in length. To successfully achieve par on this hole, players must demonstrate proficient driving skills while considering two critical factors: height and distance, as the green is well guarded. Additionally, hole #5 (par-5) is 558 yards and presents a challenging yet engaging experience, featuring a hillside along the right side of the fairway and a substantial lake safeguarding the left side. Precision in play will yield significant rewards on this hole.

Golfers encountering this course for the first time are likely to reduce their pace during the initial holes due to the strategic placement of bunkers throughout the layout. However, they can take comfort in the fact that the caddies are highly skilled and will assist in selecting the appropriate club and determining the optimal direction for their shots. The final challenging hole is the 9th hole, a par-5 measuring 632 yards, situated at the summit of the hill on the Lake Course. This hole serves as the ultimate assessment of skill before players make their way back to the clubhouse.

Upon completing the 18-hole round, what remains in our memory is the expansive green and its swift speed. Under optimal conditions, this setting serves as an excellent safeguard for the pin, enhanced by the strategic placement of bunkers surrounding it. The continuous variations in elevation, coupled with the presence of large lakes and hills, contribute to an unforgettable golfing experience, presenting challenges for every player.

ChiLinh Golf features three distinct 9-hole courses, making it a challenge for golfers to select a single course to play. Therefore, it is recommended that those in good physical condition attempt to experience all 27 holes. The courses present a variety of challenging terrains, including unpredictable slopes and strategically placed sand traps. Furthermore, it is essential to highlight the quality of service at Chi Linh, particularly the skilled caddies who possess extensive knowledge and are committed to providing exceptional support to players. Chi Linh is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts, and one can expect a rewarding experience during their time on the course, as noted by the jury representative following the survey day.

ChiLinh Golf not only boasts stunning landscapes but also features facilities that have been systematically developed to meet international golf course standards. The comprehensive ecosystem of amenities, coupled with a team of professionally trained staff, ensures that visitors enjoy a thoroughly enriching experience during their time at the course.

Following our round of golf, we reconvened at the restaurant alongside the management board and the staff responsible for the golf course. Seated around the banquet table, we engaged in discussions regarding the course conditions, during which the experts on the judging panel provided valuable insights and candid opinions aimed at enhancing the quality of golf course maintenance and upkeep. The banquet table was meticulously arranged in the outdoor section of the clubhouse, perched atop a hill, offering us a panoramic view of the golf course as we savored an array of dishes that artfully blended Asian and European culinary traditions.

Here are the photos we captured during our day at ChiLinh Golf