COWDRAY SHORTLISTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS BIGGA AWARD AFTER ACCLAIMED COURSE TRANSFORMATION
An ambitious golf development project spanning almost two years has put Cowdray in the running for national acclaim at the highly respected 2025 BIGGA Awards.
The West Sussex club is one of only three venues to have been named as a finalist for the coveted ‘Greenkeeping Project of the Year with Price Turfcare’ accolade at the BIGGA (British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association) Awards, which will take place in Harrogate on January 21.
Cowdray’s 18-hole layout completed a stunning transformation in April 2024, including extensive improvements to the cart path network, greenside landscaping and 39 bunkers.
Two months later, the club unveiled a brand-new par-3 course that has proven an instant hit with members and guests, adding five dynamic holes with USGA specification greens to the venue’s growing golf offering.
Work across both courses was carried out almost exclusively by the club’s in-house team, overseen by Course Manager Jonathan Smith – making the project eligible for one of the most coveted honours in the industry.
Tim Allen, Director of Golf at Cowdray, said: “It’s a great thrill and honour to be shortlisted for a national award such as this one, particularly because it recognises the fantastic work that Jonathan and his team have carried out over the last years.
“We are very proud of both the improvements made to the 18-hole course and the construction of the new par-3 course, which we hope have changed the golfing experience at Cowdray for members and guests for many years to come.
“Thanks must go once again to the entire greenkeeping team for their hard work and dedication. We look forward to the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition later this month.”
Golf is just one string to the bow of Cowdray, which is also home to an award-winning farm shop and world-renowned polo club. At the heart of the 16,000-acre estate is Cowdray House, a historic house and exclusive events venue just an hour from London and its major airports.