Flagstick’s Stunning Vietnam Showcases  07:43, 23/06/2025

Văn Lang Empire in Phú Thọ and Bảo Ninh Trường Thịnh Golf Course in Quảng Bình join the expanding list of outstanding courses in one of the world’s most dynamic golfing markets.

While the two sites had contrasting terrain – rugged mountains at Văn Lang Empire and coastal dunes at Bảo Ninh Trường Thịnh – the projects shared one philosophy: honouring the land ‘Mother Nature’ provided and creating exceptional golf experiences. Norman and his team at Greg Norman Golf Course Design (GNGCD) worked closely with Flagstick to blend visionary design with expert construction.

“Every detail, from routing to finish shaping, was done right the first time, ensuring long term sustainability without costly repairs,” said Martin Moore, President at Flagstick, a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

“Both courses showcase Flagstick’s deep commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability, proving that doing it right the first time is more than just a motto; it’s a promise,” added Moore.

With Văn Lang Empire’s location nestled in the rugged, forested hills of Phú Thọ Province, theFlagstick team faced tough earthworks and the need for precise shaping to meet Norman’s vision of blending dramatic elevation changes with strategic playability. To ensure turf conditions remain pristine year-round, more than 150,000 linear metres of drainage and a state-of-the-art irrigation system were installed.

Moore described the site as ‘a spectacular piece of land provided by Mother Nature’. “The mountain terrain offered opportunities to create visually striking, memorable holes. No question that Văn Lang Empire has the potential to be recognised among the best golf courses in Vietnam,” said Moore.

Ahead of the course’s projected opening this month, Norman praised the final layout during a recent visit, highlighting its balance of challenge and accessibility for all golfers, with the capability to host major tournaments.

At Bảo Ninh Trường Thịnh Golf Course, Flagstick applied a light-touch approach, moving sand instead of soil and working with natural contours and existing vegetation to preserve the site’s character. From the start, the team prioritised preserving native features and vegetation like casuarina trees and coastal grasses (known locally as ‘cỏ rười’). Natural gravity handled drainage, guiding water through low points toward the sea. Precise irrigation and minimal drainage were adapted on-site to match the topography and support sustainability. Natural bunkers were shaped to flow with the dunes, enhancing but not overpowering the native landscape. Varied topography and groundcover provided a rich natural palette to work with, allowing creativity while maintaining harmony with the land’s original character.

“Less was more at Bảo Ninh Trường Thịnh Golf Course,” said Gavin Reid, Vice President of Flagstick. “The team’s thoughtful site work created a setting that feels effortlessly natural, even though it was carefully crafted.”

Despite harsh conditions with extreme hot weather above 45 degrees Centigrade, all 18 holes were completed within 10 months with the last hole being grassed at the end of April. “The result is a course that feels timeless, grounded, and seamlessly integrated with its environment,” added Reid.

In addition to its latest Vietnam undertakings, Flagstick remains at the forefront of golf course construction in the region with on-going projects in Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia.

“Flagstick is committed to delivering excellence and passion no matter the landscape. Each course is crafted with care, not just built,” said Moore.

*Flagstick and Greg Norman Golf Course Design are both members of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.