Leadbetter academy opens at La Manga

David Leadbetter has officially opened his brand new top-of-the-range golf facility at La Manga Club in Spain

David Leadbetter has officially opened his brand new top-of-the-range golf facility at La Manga Club in Spain.

The renowned instructor - who has worked with the likes of Nick Faldo and Ernie Els throughout his esteemed career - cut the ribbon this week following a £1m redevelopment of the Murcia venue's teaching and practice centre.

The new training centre has two tuition studios and the latest digital technology and is situated adjured to the remodelled 300-metre range, which features two 36-metre Huxley grass tees, a 15-metre wide, 35-metre deep grass teeing area, target greens, tees and bunkers.

The revamped practice area also boasts four short-game areas, three large putting greens and four teaching classrooms.

"I have heard so many good things about La Manga Club for so long, and the opportunity to open a facility at the resort was one to jump at," said Leadbetter.

"La Manga Club has incredible facilities for golf, but also for tennis and other sports, and this new development is right up there with anything I have seen in the world."

The American held a special clinic with elite Spanish juniors before his inaugural drive-in in front of guests, media and La Manga Board members, including non-executive chairman PY Gerbeau.

Jose Ansejo, general manager of La Manga Club, added:

"We're delighted David could be with us to celebrate the opening of this new facility, which we believe once again demonstrates La Manga's commitment to providing visitors with the finest environment and facilities for learning and enjoying sport."

La Manga is home to three championship-standard courses - including the South, past host of the European Tour's Spanish Open - a 28-court tennis centre, restaurants, bars, villas and a host of other leisure amenities.