Royal Hague

Architect: HS Colt & CH Alison
Restoration: Frank Pont
 

Built in the mid-1930s in high dunes, Royal Hague is a stern test. Colt and Alison’s goal was to create a very tough course, the Pine Valley of Europe. Many would argue they succeeded.

In 2007, the club faced a major problem as it needed to replace its greens, the originals having been built on imported clay to make it feasible to grow grass in the hostile dune climate. Over the years, topdressing had sunk this clay layer to such a depth that it had become impenetrable. Frank was appointed consulting architect and asked to develop a programme to rebuild all 18 greens, green surrounds and bunkers.

The 13 original Alison-designed greens and surrounds were precisely replicated. The 5 that had been changed by other architects were redesigned, returning them to the same style as the originals. This project was completed in two years. The club was so happy with the results that it asked Frank to write a long-term Course Plan analysing the tees, walkways and vegetation around the course as well as the mowing lines. These facets were then amended over the following 6 years.

The course has risen spectacularly in the rankings and is now rated #78 in the world by GOLF Magazine.