Andalucía has long been famed as a centre for World Class golf courses, a hot-spot for sporting tourism and those looking for a healthy lifestyle. This year it has raised the bar even higher and there are a wide range of exciting sporting events and activities to take part in.

The image of the Costa del Sol as a fantastic place for sports has been given a huge boost by Marbella being elected the European City for Sport 2009. In conjunction with winning this prestigious title, Marbella Town Hall and the Andalucía Council have set a plan in motion to invest 105 million Euros in improving sporting facilities over the next twelve years. They have also scheduled an amazing programme of sporting events to take place throughout the region this year..

2009 Sporting Calendar

2009 has already been a busy year for sport. Marbella hosted The Andalucia Tennis Experience in April, featuring Serena Williams and Jelena Jankovic. This well-attended event showcased some of the best young Spanish talent. The tournament lasted a week and was won by Jankovic in an exciting final against Spaniard Carla Suarez. Throughout the year, the 2nd Costa del Sol Sailing Grand Prix has been taking place from marinas along the Coast. This exciting sailing event consists of ten races featuring the fast and light Platu 25 boats. The final race has been scheduled for June 6-7, and the city is also hosting its 6th Regatta on 13 and 14 of June. .

The important series of local golf tournaments kicked off with the Andalucía Open Golf tournament from 26th to 29th March in Seville. Golf fans are eagerly anticipating the 2009 Volvo World Match Play from 24th to 27th September 2009 at the Finca Cortesin Golf Club near Estepona. This is part of PGA European Tour and will feature some of the world’s best players competing for the €3,250,000 prize fund.

The Spanish Tennis Federation has approved Marbella’s application to host the Davis Cup quarter-final between the Spanish and German teams. The event will take place between the 10th and 12th of July at the Plaza de Toros bullring in Puerto Banus. Spain is the defending champion of the Davis Cup and has a great record in this competition, winning the title in 2000, 2004 and last year. This 11,000 capacity stadium is set to see huge local support for the Spanish team, which includes the ever popular Rafael Nadal, as well as tennis fans from all around the world.

There are also two great local football teams performing well in the 2009 season; Malaga CF and UC Marbella. Malaga is currently in 8th position in the Spanish First League. Home games are played at the La Rosaleda stadium in Malaga and information can be found in English here. Tickets can be bought from five days before the match at the stadium from 25€ per ticket. Marbella FC has been playing better than ever and battling bravely in Division 2B to move up to the next division. Matches are held in the football stadium close to Marbella centre and are a great day out. Tickets start from just 8€ with kids going for free, more information can be found at www.marbellafc.com .

Of course, if you don’t want to attend a spectator sport, you can always enjoy something sporting yourself. There are approximately 50 fantastic golf courses on the Coast to enjoy a round, many sports centres offering great tennis facilities and numerous seaside promenades in the area for a bit of exercise. The Department of Environment of Marbella is also organizing a programme of guided walks around the local area, including the iconic La Concha mountain. .

Accommodation .

If you’re coming to the Costa del Sol to enjoy any of these fantastic sporting events, take a look at www.HolidayRentalOntheWeb.com. for a wide range of great value self-catering accommodation. HolidayRentalontheWeb.com offers a portfolio of fully-managed, quality assured holiday rental properties along the Costa del Sol, from villas with heated pools, to luxury apartments right by the best golf courses. You can obtain your own personal copy of their free must-have guide to the Marbella area by visiting their sister site www.homecareontheweb.com.

© Shaw Marketing Services 2009

Georgina Shaw
georgina@shawmarketingservices.com
www.shawmarketingservices.com
+34 685 719 136