When it comes to golf course architecture, there’s a certain charm in creating a new course that exudes an old-world feel. This is exactly what Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner achieved with the New Course at Les Bordes Golf Club, located in the picturesque Loire Valley of France, just south of Paris.
Les Bordes, with its rich history and elegant ambiance, captures the essence of a tasteful time capsule. The estate was once the private sanctuary of Baron Marcel Bich, the co-founder of Bic, the renowned ballpoint pen-maker. Besides his passion for hunting, the Baron also had a deep love for golf, which led to the establishment of an 18-hole course in 1987 by Texas-born architect Robert Von Hagge.
Throughout the years, Les Bordes has hosted various professional and amateur events, cementing its place in the public eye. After the passing of Baron Bich in 1994, the estate acquired an even more mythical aura. In 2018, new ownership took the reins, embarking on a mission to enhance the golf offerings exclusively for members and their guests.
The canvas on which Hanse and Wagner designed the New Course was a dream come true for any architect. The sandy soil of Les Bordes, adorned with heather, broom, ferns, and pines, presented a palette that excited both designers. Hanse, drawing inspiration from renowned courses like Merion and Pine Valley, aimed to protect and preserve the natural beauty of the landscape.
While the site had remnants of a neglected course commissioned by Baron Bich, Hanse and Wagner created an entirely fresh design that drew upon certain elements of the original layout. The New Course officially opened for play in 2021, instantly making waves in the golfing world. GOLF Magazine, recognizing its brilliance, ranked it 97th on their prestigious list of the Top 100 Courses in the World in the same year. Two years later, it rose to an impressive 83rd position.
Every Hanse design endeavors to strike the perfect balance between providing a challenge for highly skilled players and ensuring enjoyment for the average golfer. The New Course at Les Bordes epitomizes this philosophy.
“No matter your skill level, you can go out and play golf. You’ll navigate the course easily, enjoying your round without losing any balls,” says Hanse.
However, excelling on this course requires precision and strategic decision-making. Hanse emphasizes the importance of finding the optimal angle of the fairway and hitting the right quadrant of the well-designed greens.
In addition to the New Course, Hanse and Wagner crafted another gem at Les Bordes – the Wild Piglet, a remarkable 10-hole par-3 layout. This charming miniature version mirrors many of the features that make the New Course so exceptional.
The world witnessed the magnificence of Les Bordes during the Bridges Cup, a thrilling team competition between elite mid-amateurs from the United States and Europe. The high-quality golf played against the breathtaking backdrop of Les Bordes captivated players and spectators alike. The course’s seamless integration with its natural surroundings left participants marveling at its timeless appeal.
To gain deeper insights into Gil Hanse’s remarkable work at Les Bordes, watch the accompanying video.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the official name of the new course at Les Bordes Golf Club?
The new course is aptly named the New Course at Les Bordes Golf Club.
When did the New Course at Les Bordes open for play?
The New Course officially opened its fairways to golfers in 2021.
Where is Les Bordes Golf Club located?
Les Bordes Golf Club is situated in the enchanting Loire Valley of France, just south of Paris.
How did Les Bordes Golf Club gain its mythical aura?
Les Bordes Golf Club gained its mythical aura over the years due to its exclusivity, captivating history, and remarkable natural beauty.
Who were the architects behind the New Course at Les Bordes?
The New Course is a collaborative masterpiece by renowned architects Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner.
What is the Bridges Cup, and how did Les Bordes Golf Club play a part?
The Bridges Cup is a team competition showcasing the remarkable talent of elite mid-amateur golfers from the United States and Europe. Les Bordes Golf Club served as the prestigious venue for this hotly contested event.
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