Durban, South Africa (PRWEB) December 23, 2013
Fairmont Zimbali Lodge and Fairmont Zimbali Resort, both part of the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts stable, a luxury brand known for operating some of the world’s most storied hotel properties, are proud to announce the appointment of Mario van Zyl as the Head Golf Professional for both properties. Van Zyl brings with him extensive international experience in golf course operations and golf instruction.
With 11 years of experience, van Zyl arrives at Fairmont Zimbali Lodge and Fairmont Zimbali Resort from the Butch Harmon School of Golf in Dubai, where he most recently held the position of Teaching Professional. Prior to this he held a range of positions at some of the finest golf courses in the world including assignments at The Els Club in Dubai, The Grove in London, Monterei Golf & Country Club in the Algarve-Portugal, The Montgomerie in Dubai and the Julian Krinsky School of Golf in Philadelphia and Boston.
After spending 14 years abroad, Mario finally found his way back to his roots. “I felt that this was the perfect time of my life to return home and share the wealth of industry experience which I have learned in my positions across the globe with my fellow South Africans (and its visitors)”, says Van Zyl. “The position is a very exciting challenge for me and I am embracing every moment of it.” Mario and his wife (Alexis) have lived a fast-paced-life in Dubai for the last 6 years and felt that moving down to Durban will benefit them both.
Mario spent his formative years at High School Florida after which he completed a Diploma in Golf Directorship and Club Management from Damelin. He is certified by the Titleist Performance Institute and is a member of the Professional Golfers Association of South Africa.
With Mario’s addition to the team, we are proud to announce the opening of a dedicated pro shop at both Fairmont Zimbali Lodge and Fairmont Zimbali Resort. The store at the Fairmont Zimbali Lodge is scheduled to open on the 13th of December and the store at Fairmont Zimbali Resort on the 5th of January. Guests will be able to make golf bookings for the Zimbali Country Club at the shops, as well as bookings for personal or group lessons with Mario. The stores will stock a range of high end golfing accessories and clothing.
During the Festive Season, van Zyl will be based at the Fairmont Zimbali Lodge with Foresight GC2 Performance Simulation Equipment. Already proven as the industry’s most preferred and trusted launch monitor there is no way better way to have your swing analyzed or new clubs fitted. This combined with Mario’s focus on the fitness component of golf, which stems from his TPI training, will leave your golf buddies in the bunker.
About Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts connects guests to the very best of its destinations worldwide, reflecting each locale's energy, culture and history. Passionate travelers choose the luxury hotel brand for its ability to deliver memorable travel experiences, personalized and thoughtful service, and hotels that are one-of-a-kind. Serving as genuine gateways to their destinations, Fairmont hotels offer locally-inspired cuisine and spirited bars and lounges, distinctive design and décor, and a steadfast responsibility to environmental and social priorities. With more than 65 hotels globally, and many more in development, landmark hotels in the Fairmont collection include The Plaza in New York, London’s The Savoy, Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai and Quebec City’s Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Fairmont is owned by FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global hotel company with over 105 hotels under the Fairmont, Raffles, and Swissôtel brands. The company also manages Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel branded luxury private residences club, whole-ownership residences and serviced residences properties. For more information or reservations, please call +27 (0)32 538 5000, visit fairmont.com or contact your local travel professional.