“Pitch & Putt Golf is a form of golf that is ideal for those who want to learn golf,” says Edwin Bomers, owner of the 'Blanckenborg' in Groenlo. The course is part of Marveld Recreatie. “The golf course opened in June 2010, along with the tennis and padel courts and a multi-purpose restaurant and function center. The course completes the recreational offerings for stays at Marveld Recreatie. “You can obtain your golf proficiency certificate in a weekend,” says Edwin Bomers.
"The sustainably constructed sports complex 'Blanckenborg' forms an integral whole with what is known as a recreation ecosystem. At the campsite, bungalow park, and indoor day attraction 'Bommelwereld', we ensure that sustainability is taken into account as optimally as possible," says Edwin Bomers.
Stage-style landscape
Last year, the Groenlo entrepreneur surprised everyone by opening a unique indoor amusement park, named Bommelwereld, just a stone's throw from the golf course. It is a life-sized dream castle set in a magnificent landscape. Much attention has been paid to the landscaping. There is ample space for wildflowers and plants. The golf course is also excellently maintained in terms of landscaping. The course features a striking number of wildflowers and plants. Edwin Bomers: “I deliberately chose a single landscape architect, Nico Wissing , for the design of the landscape around the golf course and Bommelwereld . He is known for his nature-inclusive approach.” The golf course is uniquely situated in the scenic landscape of the Achterhoek. From the elevated terrace of the restaurant, visitors have a beautiful view of the vast landscape and the natural surroundings.
Stimulating vain the interest
Marveld Recreatie organizes weekly golf clinics for park guests during the high season. This allows them to get acquainted with the sport of golf. Edwin Bomers: “Those interested in golf can get to know the sport in an accessible way during clinics with a 'pro' (golf instructor) and obtain a GVB, a golf proficiency certificate. This is how we stimulate interest in the sport of golf. Golf is popular among both seniors and Millennials because it promotes health and introduces players to nature. Every Wednesday, 80 members of Pitch & Putt Groenlo play in a competition here. Golf club 'De Blanckenborg' also uses the course. These involve club competitions and tournaments. It is remarkable that players regularly switch to golf from both tennis and padel . ” Edwin Bomers has the impression that Pitch & Putt Golf is sometimes looked down upon by the golf world. “That is not correct. This variant of golf definitely requires technique and is even perceived as more difficult due to the compact greens.” 'Pitch and Putt' involves pitching and putting with short shots. 'De Blanckenborg' features an 18-hole and a 9-hole course that are certified by the Royal Dutch Golf Federation (NGF).
Growing branch of golf
As of April 1, 2026, there will be over 20 Pitch & Putt courses among the 273 golf locations in the Netherlands. Pitch & Putt is a distinct category within the Dutch golf landscape. The short holes (30-70 meters) are a striking feature. Approximately 2000 players are affiliated with the Dutch Pitch & Putt Association (PPBN). According to the association, it is 'a small, growing branch of golf'. Incidentally, Pitch & Putt has existed since 1929 when it was introduced in Ireland. The Dutch Pitch & Putt Association was founded in 1998; it is the independent players' union for the sport of Pitch & Putt. In August 2021, the PPBN was recognized by the NGF (Dutch Golf Federation). The goal of the PPBN is to develop the sport in the Netherlands, ensure uniform rules, organize tournaments, and represent the interests of the players. In addition to their sporting function for Marveld Recreatie, the 'Blanckenborg' sports complex and Pitch & Putt – Groenlo also fulfill a regional role and are used for meetings and company outings.
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With thanks to (author of this article): Frits van Wolveren, freelance journalist in recreation and tourism