Mangaluru's premier golfing destination, the Pilikula Golf Club, is poised for a grand reopening this January following extensive renovations. The district's only golf course has been transformed into a state-of-the-art, illuminated facility, allowing enthusiasts to play a full round even after sunset.
A New Era for Golf in Coastal Karnataka
The refurbished Pilikula Golf Club will be officially inaugurated on January 10. This significant event will be immediately followed by an open golf tournament scheduled for January 10 and 11, welcoming players to experience the upgraded greens. Club captain Manoj Shetty, addressing the media on Wednesday, outlined the venue's remarkable journey. Established in 1999, the club first underwent a major conversion from a brown to a green course in 2009.
Major Upgrades and Future Plans
The latest renovation marks its most ambitious upgrade yet. In 2024, the facility was expanded from a nine-hole to an 18-hole, A+ category course. The most striking new feature is the illumination system, which creates the region's first proper night golf course. This allows players to tee off in the evening and complete a full 18-hole round under lights.
Shetty also announced plans to launch a golf academy sponsored by philanthropist Michael D'Souza. This initiative aims to train youngsters and nurture new talent interested in taking up the sport, ensuring a pipeline of future golfers from the region.
Hosting a Historic Tournament
Adding to the excitement, the club is set to make national headlines by hosting a landmark event. On January 31, Pilikula Golf Club will stage India's first-ever floodlit pro-am golf tournament. This event is expected to draw professional and amateur golfers from across the country, putting Mangaluru firmly on India's golfing map.
The transformation of Pilikula Golf Club represents a significant boost for sports tourism and recreational infrastructure in coastal Karnataka. It offers a unique proposition for residents and visitors alike, combining sport with the region's natural beauty in a novel, illuminated format.
