Jumeirah Golf Estates opens 'Fire'

Close to 60,000 spectators poured through the gates of Jumeirah Golf Estates last November to watch England's Westwood triumph on the neighbouring Earth course in the thrilling finale to The Race to Dubai, and as spectators walked from the car park to the first tee of Earth they got their first glimpse of the equally impressive Fire course.

As the host course to the inaugural Dubai World Championship, Earth has understandably been the focus of attention throughout the year; however, with its rustic appearance, thick rough, fire trees, and distinctive orange bunker sand, spectators were clearly intrigued by the Fire course which has been described as "red hot" and "Dubai's best kept secret".

Fire offers a completely different golfing experience to its neighbour, Earth, which resembles the playing conditions often found in North America and Europe, with broad fairways, lush vegetation, and fast flowing water, giving members freedom of choice over the style of course they wish to play.

Greg Norman, lead golf course designer, said:

"Harnessing the stark beauty of the desert, Fire has been designed to reflect the local surroundings. Features include vast areas of informal bunkering, narrow fairways, and wall-to-wall varieties of grass. I believe these elements will combine to create an equally stunning golf course, but also an equally challenging course from a player's perspective.

"Fire will reward focus and precision while offering players a variety of strategic play options. The undulating topography creates a challenging level of play - going directly at the flag may not always be the best approach, which gives Fire a strong sense of classic links-style play."

With access to both the Fire and Earth courses, members of 'The Club at Jumeirah Golf Estates' will benefit from a golf experience that is unrivalled anywhere in the Middle East.

The Jumeirah Golf Estates Tour Academy is a world-class facility designed to enhance the performance of Tour professionals and members alike. The range of practice amenities at the Academy, which is located on the practice fairway between the Fire and Earth courses, includes dedicated short game holes, practice bunkers, large contoured putting green, and practice teeing areas.

Saeed Harib, Managing Director, Nakheel Leisure, said:

"The Academy provides the unique opportunity to train alongside the very best players in the game today, under the expert guidance of fully qualified PGA professionals. Using cutting-edge technology, the Academy delivers unrivalled coaching and practice opportunities which have been creatively designed to improve your game."