Just got back from Germany

[RichardSanderson]

I don't know if any of you will will remember me asking about courses in Germany a while ago, but I have just returned from a week of hardcore German golf.

First off was Katzberg in Langenfeld - a short very well kept 9 holer with short par 4's and long 3's. Up until that day I hadn't played a course with greens so fast! The greens and general condition were impressive, but exciting it was not!

Secondly came Kurten G.C (in Kurten). This course blew me away. The greens weren't quite in the condition of Katzberg, but the setting was unreal (rolling hills surrounded by forrest and numerous eagles - the flying variety)! It was also what felt like the longest course in the world. The Germans have an unhealthy obsession with fibreglass models of people and huge walks between holes. I strongly recommend this course to anyone thinking of traveling to Germany

Thirdly was Kosaido International G.C. - This was similar to Kurten but lacked the wow factor due to the poor (by German standards) state of the greens. I thought the name sets you up for disappointment - but was still a nice course.

Finally came Leverkusen G.C. - A nice flat well kept course in the city Bayer built. Not much more can be said about it to be honest.

Apologies for the brief account but it's late.

 

[Herbie]

I remember, did you have a great time, thats the main thing?

 

[mono217]

Yeah did you have a good time well by the sounds of things you did...

 

[Atticus_Finch]

Very good Richard, Glad you enjoyed your Hardcore German ....er...Golf.
How did cost compare to golf in this country, bearing in mind the state of the exchange rate. Was it good value?
Did you end up playing with any Germans at any point?

 

[RichardSanderson]

50Euro per round at Kurten, Kosaido, and Leverkusen. Katzberg was 28Euro.

In my opinion, it was worth the money, even with the poor exchange rate. The standard of the courses is easily the same as a £50/round course over here, if not better. Once the exchange rate picks up it will definately be worth it.

Unfortunately I didnt play with any German golfers. They are way behind the times when it comes to golf over there thanks to laws governing who can play (you have to have a license to play - you get the license by taking an expensive course). Very few people play and those that do play, play for show (all the gear - no idea). It is an elitist sport for the rich and wealthy 50 handicappers.

Equipment is double the price too.

 

[Atticus_Finch]

Thanks for your reply Richard.
That's what I was trying to get to. To see if there was a different culture there regarding golf.
In this country (Scotland especially) I would say that it is an everymans game whereas abroad it's usually only afforded by the better off.
I'm looking to get to Germany at some point in the next year or so, so I'll try and keep tabs on this post for when I go.

 

[Herbie]

Its not all like that Richard, but it is like it in some areas I agree. I like the bit aboput the licence thing, that must be something of recent decades as I dont remember it when I was out there, it doesnt surprise me though

 

[Atticus_Finch]

I'm assuming thet visiting golfers don't have to go through some sort of test?
Are H/C certs required everywhere?

 

[RichardSanderson]

Yes, it's illegal to play without a h/c cert or license.

"To play golf in Germany, most golfers must possess a license called a Platzreife before they can get on the green. To get a license, you can expect to pay at least $300 for a five-day course that involves several hours of training each day. Then you have to pass a series of tests.

The Platzreife is actually a legal requirement to play golf in Germany, instituted over 40 years ago. No other country in Europe requires such a license, but German golfing associations say it is necessary to prevent unskilled players from holding up the games of others. Germany has no courses open to all, like the public ones in the U.S. So, the Platzreife is a way to control who gets to play."

 

[RichardSanderson]

Sorry, misread your question. No visiting golfers don't have to take the test - just have a handicap certificate. Some courses have a handicap limit too.

 

[Herbie]

Sorry, misread your question. No visiting golfers don't have to take the test - just have a handicap certificate. Some courses have a handicap limit too.

thats what I thought as I couldnt remember needing a license to play out there, just h/c.