Royal Golf Club du Hainaut jumps up to number 2 in the Rolex Rankings

The Royal Golf Club du Hainaut near Brussels has recently jumped from 8th place to 2nd in the Rolex Top 1000 Golf Course rankings (Belgian courses). A Tom Simpson designed course, this recognition is undoubtedly due in no small part to the recent renovation programme that has taken place already on two of its 9 hole courses, with further work scheduled for the remaining course later this year. Project managed by Dimitri van Hauwaert, the first phase started in 2010 on the La Bruyere course, focused largely on the bunkers. Phase two earlier this year was a revamp of the Le Quesnoy course and phase 3, renovation to the Hawtree designed Les Etangs course, is due to take place towards the end of 2011.

These renovations have changed the courses dramatically, and all for a very competitive budget. The programme of works has involved shaping, improvements to drainage, fine finishing, turfing and sanding. Never has a course made such progress in one year to come from 8th place in Belgium to 2nd; achieving a score of 85/100! Obviously the club is delighted and, as work continues, hopes are high for achieving further recognition in the future; breathing down the neck of Royal Zoute Golf Club – yet another of Dimitri's clients!