Belfry set for major changes as Sir Nick Faldo eyes 'refresh' for British Masters
- Planet Sport writer
- 28 June 2023
The British golfing great outlined plans to make significant changes to the famous venue in the near future in anticipation of a new-look British Masters.
Sir Nick Faldo is planning significant changes to The Belfry after agreeing a multi-year deal to act as tournament host of the British Masters.
Faldo made three of his 11 consecutive Ryder Cup appearances on the famous Brabazon Course, helping Europe win the trophy in 1985 and retain it four years later following a 14-14 draw.
The six-time major winner also made a hole-in-one on the 14th hole in 1993's defeat to the United States, but acknowledges that the game has moved on since the course, designed by Dave Thomas and Peter Alliss, opened in 1977.
"I want a run at it which gives you a chance to be more involved and do some things," Faldo said of his hosting agreement, which sees him follow in the footsteps of Ian Poulter, Luke Donald, Lee Westwood (twice), Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood and Danny Willett (twice).
"I want to look at the golf course - you can't waltz in on day one and wave your arms around, you've got to have a game plan on the golf course and how we elevate it for the field."
Asked if he planned major renovations, Faldo said: "I hope so. We are in serious talks. It's time for a refresh.
"All those saplings we were stuck behind at the Ryder Cup, now they're everywhere. I think it needs a little bit of a clear-out, a little bit of fresh air in there.
"The game has changed as well. We were hitting a drive 260 yards and long par fours were a drive and four iron, now they're all bombing it around the corner and it's completely different.
"So it will be nice to do a little work to keep the challenge up for these guys."
Just eight of the world's top 100 are in the field for this week's event, which has a prize fund of £2.7million compared to £6.95million at the PGA Tour's Rocket Mortgage Classic.
Faldo admits attracting star names will be one of his main challenges to boost the tournament's profile, adding: "There's 45 events a year and guys are going to pick their 22 to 25.
"So everybody is looking at their schedule, where they are coming from, where they are flying to, where they are playing next. When they look at everything you want to be on their radar and for them to come and play.
"I'm looking forward to a nice stretch over the next five years or more, and the goal is to have an impact on this event and do the best I can to help to elevate it in different areas.
"I'm excited. It looks good out there, good atmosphere. I'm ready to rock and roll."
