Golfing’s Greg Norman Links With South Ocean

According to Norman, at this early stage it is impossible to put a price on the total cost of the renovation because unexpected expenses may arise.

"The estimated cost will vary because we may have to redo the irrigation and drainage systems and add new sprinklers. I would like to use the analogy of taking a piece of coal and creating a diamond out of it. It just needs time for the beauty to be brought out. This is the most exciting part for me because I don’t do a lot of golf course recreations. So at this point I can’t put a price on it. Once all of the adjustments are completed I will be able to dictate a cost. However it won’t be a dramatic cost," Norman explained.

The golf course’s design is expected to leave golfers with a memorable experience.

The front nine holes will be routed through gently rolling land and the back nine holes will wind through native Bahamian forest, featuring mature ficus and gumbo limbo trees.

Freshwater lakes, wetlands and two natural lagoon-like "blue holes" that connect to the ocean will also be developed.

In addition, South Ocean Golf and Beach Resort has developed a master plan that will feature a new beachfront hotel, marina, casino and residential apartments.

Norman pointed out that work commenced to renovate South Ocean’s Golf Club one month ago.

"My design team is going to be on top of this, stick to the budget and stay on target. We have already begun removing debris and similar things of that nature. My involvement with the renovation is to also manage the whole process which is important for me and the South Ocean Development Company," he said.

Norman, a renowned professional golfer, who spent 331 weeks of his three decade professional career as the world’s number one ranked player (among his many accolades) pointed out why this project in particular is important to him.

"I am biased towards the renovation because I have been coming to The Bahamas for a long time and this destination is second to none. I want to make sure that this project like all of the other projects that I have done, including Exuma’s Emerald Bay Golf Course, is done impeccably. I also expect for this project to create many jobs." Norman further noted.

Meanwhile, South Ocean Development Company’s director noted that, "We want to make sure the course would be flexible enough to be enjoyed by a novice golfer yet challenging for the more advanced player. We felt Greg Norman best understood that philosophy and is most capable of carrying it out."

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Neville Wisdom underlined the importance of constructing a golf course that will cater to the local and tourist communities.

"I would like to thank you (Greg Norman Golf Course Design and South Ocean Development Companies) for coming to The Bahamas and also to the rescue of golf. I have been under tremendous stress in regards to golf being played in this country.

"What we require in New Providence is a golf course that can meet the requirements of the local and tourist communities. On behalf of the government I am very pleased to welcome the renovation of the facility and would like to welcome Norman back home," Wisdom said.