Next year 100th KLM Open flies to Amsterdam?
The inland links course of The Dutch in Spijk plays host to the KLM Open for the third and final time this week (13-16 September) before the championship heads off to a new venue for the centenary edition in 2019. The Made in Scotland team at The Dutch have been the perfect hosts. Especially during their first Dutch Open when they not only presented an immaculately prepared course that duly impressed Europe’s golfing elite during four gloriously sunny days, but they also had the honour of heralding local hero Joost Luiten as the KLM Open Champion for the second time in his career. With bumper crowds lining the fairways, the 2016 KLM Open really had the wow factor.
Dating back to 1919, the Dutch International Open Championship is one of the oldest events on the European Tour. It has been sponsored by KLM, the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name, since 2004. Coincidentally, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines also celebrates its first 100 years in 2019. No doubt Tournament Director, Daan Slooter has a few surprises up his sleeve. A centenary tournament deserves to see some big names in the world of golf participating in honour of the game rather than for a sack full of starter’s money.
International rumours
After a three-year absence from the traditional old Dutch courses, a return to ancient fairways for the 100th edition of the KLM Open would be rather fitting for such a grand occasion. Yet rumour has it that the six-year old course of The International near Amsterdam will play host in 2019. It’s a fine course – challenging, rewarding and honest – that has already proved itself worthy of hosting events on the European Ladies and Senior Tour. The fact that the ‘inland links’, designed by former Masters Champion Ian Woosnam, lies right next to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport naturally makes it an ideal venue for the double celebration of the Dutch Open and the Dutch airline company. However, whilst I love innovation, I do also have a strong passion for the classic old golf courses steeped in history like the Kennemer Golf & Country Club. It’ll be interesting to see whether the ‘Ol’ School’ wins or the ‘new kid on the block’.
Until then, enjoy this year’s KLM Open (13-16 September) at The Dutch in Spijk!
Wendy Hoad
PICTURED: Golf fans enjoying the inaugural KLM Open at The Dutch in 2016. © Photography by Golfing Inspirations