Kristal Golf Resort, Penang

Golf course designed by Hideyo Sugimoto (Big Sugi) 6938 yds (Black) 6543 yds (Blue) 6047 yds (White) 5245 yds (Red) 71.5'28. 364, Jalan Valdor, 14200 Sungai Bakap, Seberang Prai Selatan, Penang, Malaysia. TEL: (604) 5822280 I 582 2744 FAX: (604) 582 2281.

Regarded as one of the best golf courses in the northern region, the sprawling Kristal Golf Resort is surrounded by mist shrouded mountains. Formerly a hilly rubber and oil palm plantation, Kristal is located in Sungai Bakap just 24 km from the Prai end of Penang Bridge.

Krisral Golf Resort was designed by a Japanese legendary pro, Hideyo Sugimoto (Big Sugi), who won the Malaysian Open in 1973. Due to the breathtaking beautiful scenery and well designed layout, Kristal was voted as one of the top ten golf courses in Malaysia by Golf Malaysia in 1997 and in 1999.

Guide to the target and hazards ahead, mature palm and rubber trees combine with sharp slopes to narrow the landing areas considerably. Powder fine bunkers are strategically placed to trap errant shots, while ponds, streams and creeks add ambience and drama to play. While the first few holes are rather friendly, golfers are warned of the challenges ahead, in particular the water-lined stretch from Hole-14 to 17 - Kristal's answer to Pebble Beach's Amen Corner. Kristal's par 72 - 702S yard layout is a work of art. While most teeboxes offer a visual.

The key to unlocking the secrets to par or better at Kristal is to hit straight, not long, as off-line shots could wind up out of bounds, unplayable or in dense vegetation. Find the fairways from the tee and your reward will be an easy second from exquisite Tifrway turfing. Much credit must go to Kristal's maintenance team for its well kept fairways and Tifrway greens. In addition to the natural beauty, Japanese-influenced landscaping enhance the scenic value of Krista!. Kristal's natural features contribute a challenging golfing experience which one will not forget.