By Design - Summer 2019

ASGCA, of Schmidt-Curley Design. “Most feature minimal, antiquated irrigation systems and nominal equally-antiquated maintenance equipment resulting in rather poor overall conditioning. This, however, comes with some very inexpensive green fees and a certain humble charm, but far from what most would consider an adequate overall experience. “Prior to the Second World War, Burma was one of the richest countries in south-east Asia but following the retreat of British interests, the country became quite impoverished. The country is, however, witnessing a resurgence in economic growth and has become a strong tourist destination, especially to Ancient Bagan, about 60 miles south of the Myotha National site. The countryside is awash with countless temples and pagodas, often covered in golden rooftops and there is a very welcoming culture.” Myotha National Golf Club, south of Mandalay in Myanmar, was built on an almost 2,000-acre site, and the course is the centerpiece of what is becoming an industrial manufacturing complex whose produce is shipped down the Irrawaddy, the largest river in the country. “I predict that, soon, a significant number of products will be manufactured in Myanmar for world consumption and many will be made here,” says Curley. “Having the golf course as recreation for the middle management will play a huge role in the success of the project and the ability to lure the establishment of factories, many from foreign interests, to a remote site. “While the course is relatively new— having opened early this year—it has already garnered significant attention as the best course in the country and as a significant course in the entire Asian market. “The site is quite unique for Asia with an arid climate and vegetation somewhat reminiscent of Arizona. Consequently, we created a desert- style layout with reduced overall turf and transitional bunkering that ties into the outer areas, but with a strong emphasis on wide landing areas to promote playability. Every golfer who visits is blown away by the look and its departure from all the parkland-style courses in the country today. “The primary challenges centered on the remote location and ability to get proper construction equipment,” continues Curley. “The construction process ran well short of a typical pace as the local laborers are not setting any speed records! The initial and largest hurdle was transferring water to the site from the river, over 10 miles away. This was a long process but was well worth the effort as the large reservoirs we incorporated to capture seasonal monsoon rains will likely be adequate, but cannot be 100 percent trusted. “The project will undoubtedly benefit the local population with jobs they would have never expected and the course itself will attract tourism, especially golf tourists who perhaps travel here now but without clubs in hand.” • The project will undoubtably benefit the local population with jobs they would have never expected Photos: Schmidt-Curley Design Brian Curley, ASGCA, expects Myotha National Golf Club to attract tourism and bring jobs to the local population 17