If you thought the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) clubs were just about sinking birdies and draining putts, think again. These clubs are driving a whole lot more than golf balls; theyโre driving community change in Central Vietnamโand doing it with the kind of panache that would make any golfer proud.
Now, letโs talk about these VGC clubs. Youโve got three heavy hitters in the lineup: Laguna Golf Lang Co, Montgomerie Links, and Ba Na Hills Golf Club.
These arenโt just any old courses; theyโre the crown jewels of Central Vietnamโs golfing scene, attracting everyone from weekend warriors to serious golfers looking for their next challenge.
But hereโs the kickerโthese clubs are as committed to their local communities as they are to perfecting their greens.
Take Montgomerie Links, for example. Theyโve spearheaded Green Hope 2024, a project thatโs about as far from a sand trap as you can get.
This initiative is tackling one of Vietnamโs most pressing issues: child drowning.
Believe it or not, drowning is one of the top killers of kids aged 5-14 in this country, especially in rural areas where swimming lessons are as rare as a hole-in-one.
So, what does Montgomerie Links do? They roll up their sleeves and offer free swimming lessons to the kids in Quang Nam province.
Itโs not just about saving lives; itโs about giving these kids a fighting chance.
“Our role extends beyond providing world-class golf experiences. By equipping children with essential life skills, we are investing in the future of our community,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, club manager at Montgomerie Links. Spoken like a true champion.
But the feel-good vibes donโt stop there. Over at Laguna Golf Lang Co, theyโve taken sustainability to a whole new level with their โedible golf course.โ
Thatโs rightโwhile most courses are content with perfectly manicured fairways, Lagunaโs got water buffalo tending to their rice paddies.
And these paddies arenโt just for show; they produce up to 20 tons of rice each year, which is used to support the organic farm on-site and is also donated to local families and seniors.
Who knew golf could be so deliciously good for the environment?
And if that doesnโt make you want to dust off your clubs, consider this: VGC clubs are making golf more accessible to the next generation of players.
Theyโve launched free golf lessons in local schools, teaching kids not just how to swing a club, but also instilling values like discipline, teamwork, and respect.
Itโs about more than just the game; itโs about giving these kids skills that will serve them both on and off the course.
“As we introduce golf to local students, weโre not just teaching them a sportโweโre providing them with skills and values that will benefit them in all aspects of life,” said Stephen Banks, director of golf at Laguna Golf Lang Co. A noble pursuit, indeed.
And letโs not forget the fundraising golf events. These arenโt your run-of-the-mill charity tournaments.
The VGC clubs are serious about raising money for local causes, whether itโs education, healthcare, or environmental conservation.
Itโs golf with a purpose, and itโs making a real difference in Central Vietnam.
But perhaps the biggest impact these clubs are having is on the local economy.
Theyโre employing a significant number of local staff in roles ranging from caddies to greenkeepers to hospitality.
And these arenโt just jobsโtheyโre opportunities for professional growth, with competitive wages and the kind of job security thatโs as solid as a well-struck iron.
“Our clubs are deeply intertwined with the local community, and we see our employees as an integral part of our success,โ said Gary Dixon, General Manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club.
โBy offering meaningful employment, we are helping to sustain local families and contributing to the broader economic health of the region.โ Thatโs the kind of leadership youโd expect from a top-tier golf club.
So, the next time you think about golf in Central Vietnam, remember: the VGC clubs are doing a whole lot more than just playing the gameโtheyโre changing it, one community at a time.
