Rinus Huberts looks ahead to the European Strokeplay Championship

EPPA Board Member Rinus Huberts spoke to fippa.org regarding the European championship.

Q. What factors decided Orvelte as the host venue?

RH: There were several candidates to host the 2015 European Strokeplay. We have chosen Orvelte because of its success during the Dutch open 2014. The organization was fine and the course was excellent. The players were enthusiastic about the course.

Q. Describe the Orvelte course?

RH: The course is part of the landscape. There is light undulation with some very challenging holes. Shortest distance is 33 metres and 70 metres is the longest distance.You can see almost all the holes from centre of the course.

Q. Describe the surrounding district?

RH: Near the Pitch and Putt lies the village of Orvelte.  Everything is still left in the original condition as they previously lived and worked many years ago.

Q. How are preparations progressing?

RH: The  organisation is prepared and is working out the latest details. We are  waiting for the final registrations of the players. It's going to be an exciting European championship.

Q. Is it likely to be hot in Orvelte during August?

RH: It may be warm in Netherlands in August, but not as hot as during the World Strokeplay in Galicia. It will be a pleasant temperature. Still it is Holland, and there could be rain.

Q. Who are the key people involved the organisation of the European Strokeplay 2015?

RH: The key players are Suzanne Bosch, Rinus Huberts and a number of players/volunteers from Orvelte who will make this tournament a great success. Just as they did last year at the Dutch Open.

Q. How many players are expected to participate?

RH: If all the players and  unions acccept their allocations then we will have a total of 102 players.  I do not think we will have quite as many players. We are satisfied if we have 84 players.  It's not about the number of players but the quality.  It is after all a European championship.

Q. Do you believe the winner will be Dutch or Irish? Or from elsewhere?

RH: I think the winner will be a Dutch or Irish player, but it will be very close. Ireland has about 12 players who can win this championship. Holland has 3 players who can win. The course will favour Ireland and Holland, small greens and short distances

Q. What facilities will be available for spectators and what social activities are planned?

RH: In the evening there will be live music, and you can join the the barbecue for a small amount.  The NPPB will always promote international Pitch and Putt. We hope to see all the players who are invited and we will have a great sporting tournament