Dima hosts Quadrangular International - Josu Imanol Zabala Odriozo reflects
Josu Imanol Zabala Odriozo of Dima Pitch and Putt looks back with satisfaction at the successful hosting of August’s quadrangular international match.
“It has been very gratifying to host the quadrangular International in Dima,” reflects Josu. “Our intention had been to ensure players were made to feel welcome, and to leave feeling they had been well looked after during the competition and satisfied with the attraction and state of the course.”
The Basques were one of the prime movers behind the novel event. “The idea for the match between four associations was the result of a conversation with our friends in Galicia, and attracted the interest of Catalonia and the French association,” explains Josu.
Josu enthusiastically describes the project, which has consumed many days of his life in the last six or seven years. “The Dima course has 18 holes. The first six holes have quite a few natural water hazards and the remaining holes are protected with numerous fruit trees. Overall the course could be considered rather ‘technical’. The greens are shaped with undulations and various levels making putting difficult. The fairways between 50 and 90 metres require a variety different pitching shots, downhill, uphill and all need a degree of precision.”
The Dima club prepared assiduously for the 1-2 August international event. “The clubhouse did not need any special preparation as it is well equipped for all kinds of events. With respect to the course; we clearly differentiated obstacles and hazards, trimming down the rough areas so players didn’t need to suffer unduly,” explains Josu.
How did the local team selection process work? “We held two classification competitions to select the Basque team players. Jose Estaban and Juan Sanchez were the two of the best players. What was evident was that the lack of major tournament experience took its toll.”
How did the teams compare, in Josu’s estimation? “My impression of the teams of Catalonia, France and Galicia, with respect to their playing standards is diverse. The Catalans had a good and experienced team. France and Galicia were at a different level. But the personalities were magnificent!! All contributed to a super ambience and a terrific social occasion.”
Josu is somewhat frustrated that Pitch and Putt in the region hasn’t developed as quickly as he would like. “The evolution of Pitch & Putt in the Basque country is slow, and unfortunately, disperse. The recession has been hugely influential.” The Spanish regional issues have also surfaced here. “Moreover, the golf federation has been organising several Pitch & Putt competitions in different clubs, but not once in Dima! Many players participate in these events in order to lower their golf handicap. Furthermore, the golf federation assist clubs directly or indirectly – economically, those of which organise such competitions; slightly controversial, but no one complains.”
The FIPPA endorsed 2015 event will help. “The quadrangular international obviously was a significant promotion for Pitch and Putt and for FIPPA and many non-habitual players turned up to support the event. It was a great way to get to know the sport. For this reason the degree of satisfaction of the Basque association has been very positive,” concludes Josu.
