EuroDov Cup - Tournament relocated due to Covid-19

EuroDov Reporter
Sunday, 31 January 2021
The 2021 EuroDov Cup has been announced as the first victim of the 2021 Tour Schedule.
Much like the 2020 edition of the tournament, which was cancelled on the eve of the tournament due to Covid-19, the 2021 edition has also been affected. However, the Tour has taken the decision to cancel the Open de Estoril 3 months ahead of its scheduled date and replace it with a UK based competition.
The Northumberland Open will be the first EuroDov Cup to be played in the UK, but it does prevent the tournament from being cancelled in its entirety for the second year running. Speaking to EuroDov Reporter, David McColgan, Tour Secretary said, “it isn’t the situation we want to be in. However, it was clear that both the Tour and the field were eager for the Cup to be played. The reality is that Covid-19 pandemic was going to have an impact on the event and taking the decision this far in advance allows us to host the event and allow the field plenty time to prepare.”
The Northumberland Open will be played at Slaley Hall, near Hexham over the 2-4th July 2021. Boasting 36 holes of championship golf over the Hunting and Priestman course it will be added to the EuroDov Tour schedule for 2021. The Tour will split the 54 holes across one round on the Hunting Course and two rounds on the Priestman.
Often nicknamed, 'The Augusta of the North'. The 7088 yard, par 72 "Hunting" is a treasure of a golf course, magnificently maintained and host to several flagship events. The Dave Thomas designed par course challenges the field to not be lulled by the undulating fairways, streams and lakes, towering trees and banks of rhododendrons - the course will catch out the unwary. Well placed bunkers and tricky greens make this USGA standard, multi championship hosted course a real challenge.
Set on higher ground, the Neil Coles designed, Priestman course gives panoramic views of the Tyne valley and beyond. It plays more like a moorland course which is contoured to fit the natural lay of the land, ideal for all levels of golf. Beautifully maintained, the course has matured magnificently and has already hosted numerous European Tour events.
Wind can be a factor on this 6951 yard undulating course, criss-crossed by streams. But don't be put off, this is a classic course and suitable for all levels of golfer. Pars are well earned here and worth toasting in the clubhouse after the round.
Following the change of venue and date there is one change to the field. 2 time EuroDov Cup player, John Hedges has withdrawn from the 2021 edition and will be replaced by EuroDov Cup debutant Jim Robertson.