Schmidt-Curley Design Set to Open Second Course in Vietnam 12:00, 09/08/2017

This is the third project the company has designed for the emerging golf powerhouse FLC Group and its operations arm, Biscom. The other two projects include the newly opened FLC Golf Links Resort in Quy Nhon, and they are under-construction on the spectacular dunes-land coastline of Quang Binh where a multi-course layout of rugged, natural golf is set within towering dunes and along the beach.

Featuring spectacular views of Ha Long Bay, the course plays atop a hill within the center of town that rise some 130 meters above the bay. This elevated setting creates stunning long-range views of the spectacular, vegetated karst rock formations that emerge from the sea and tower above Ha Long Bay. The 6900 yard, Par 71 layout plays up and down strong elevation changes that create very distinct holes and demand accurate play. The course was built to offer wide fairways yet they are punctuated with a strong showing of dramatic bunkering to create strategic play options.

Three incredible par threes offer views that will soon become known throughout the golfing world including the 120 yard twelfth and its stunning views that may soon be known as one of the great short par threes in golf, along the lines of the spectacular seventh at Pebble Beach. A common design concept that was incorporated often was to create extensive fairway-cut, mowed side slopes, and punchbowls to help contain shots and keep the ball in play and create strong gravity- induced roll. Bunkering is often deep and dramatic but the design team felt that the views were not to be competed with so there is often a restrained use of sand.

Construction, headed by Martin Moore of Flagstick Construction Management, was not an easy task given the dramatic elevation change and difficult material associated with the dirt move. Just short of one million cubic meters was moved to transform the severe hillsides into quality golf holes that offer playability for all levels of golfers, especially the traveling golf tourist in search of a unique experience. “We are very enthusiastic about the Ha Long Bay Course” states principal and lead designer Brian Curley. “It is certainly one of the most photogenic properties we have ever had the pleasure to work on and I believe many of the holes will soon be known throughout Asia and the World”. “Hundreds of thousands of tourists come each year to venture into the bay on iconic wooden boats to experience the rock formations but those views pale in comparison of what is seen from high above on this course”.