Q&A with Laura Bortolato, Golf Sales Manager at Antognolla
Heralding Italy’s Golf Era
It’s a rainy day at Antognolla, but that stops nobody from playing golf, and certainly not Laura Bortolato, who walks confidently by the course, embodying her new position as Golf Sales Manager. In her white polo shirt and navy-blue windbreaker, and with an intense gaze, she fits the part. After all, for Laura, golf is not only a game but a way of living.
“I was initially drawn to the world of golf through a profound sense of connection to the sport as not only a practice but also a lifestyle. I was captivated by the elegance, grace, and precision that golf itself and golf management demanded”, she says.
It is no coincidence that after a thriving 25 years working for private clubs and resorts, including Pevero Golf Club when it was part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Vigne del Barolo under Troon Golf management, and Castiglion del Bosco when owned by Ferragamo, Laura has now chosen Antognolla Golf. She joined in March 2023.
At this stage in her career, Laura will settle for nothing less than ‘Italy’s Best Golf Course’. An established professional, her decision to join the Antognolla team is not only about prestige. “From the moment I first set foot on the property, I was captivated by its undeniable charm and unparalleled beauty”, she says. “Antognolla boasts a golf course that is nothing short of a masterpiece.”
Staying focused for a round of golf becomes all the more difficult with the location’s stunning green scenery. Beauty becomes part of the challenge at Antognolla. That’s yet another reason to visit since, according to Laura, “golf has undeniably made its mark on the list of Italian wonders”.
Ready for a round?
Q: What attracted you to the golf industry?
A: When I stepped onto a golf course for the first time, I felt I had entered an atmosphere that was simultaneously dynamic and overwhelmingly tranquil. I had never experienced such a sensation before. After that, golf became my sanctuary, a place where I could immerse myself in a world of camaraderie, strategy, and personal growth.
Embarking on my journey in the golf resort industry has been a remarkable adventure. Every day, I experience first-hand the profound impact golf has on individuals’ lives. The emotions that bind us to this sport are truly extraordinary, whether it’s the pure elation on a player’s face after sinking a crucial putt or the genuine friendships that form over
a round. Through my love for golf and hospitality, I now aim to craft unforgettable experiences where guests can indulge in the beauty of nature, connect with fellow golf enthusiasts, discover their true potential, and feel those exhilarating emotions that can only be felt on a course.
Q: When people think of Italy, they think of history, picturesque landscapes, and delicious flavors. But what about golf?
A: Italy’s golfing scene has grown exponentially in recent years, attracting both professional golfers and enthusiasts from around the world. The country’s commitment to developing top-notch facilities and hosting prestigious tournaments has elevated its status in the global golfing community, and is garnering the world’s attention, especially with the Ryder Cup taking place in Rome this year.
From the picturesque coastal fairways and rolling hills of Umbria and Tuscany, to the mountain courses in the North of Italy, the country’s golf courses offer a unique blend of natural beauty and architectural genius. All in all, Italy offers an irresistible package to golfers. Beyond the courses themselves, golf in Italy is also accompanied by the country’s renowned hospitality, exquisite local cuisine, fascinating history, and enchanting traditions. I think that golf will become a captivating addition to the country’s treasures in no time.
Q: What influenced your decision to join the team at Antognolla?
A: One of the key aspects that drew me to Antognolla is the ambition of the project, the company’s structure and development, combined with the fact that in such a short amount of time, Antognolla Golf has managed to earn the title of ‘Italy’s Best Golf Course’. The Antognolla luxury resort is nestled within the historic Antognolla castle estate, which dates back centuries and carries an incredible sense of heritage. Being part of a place that has witnessed such significant moments in time and embodies the essence of Italian culture is truly inspiring to me.
The team at Antognolla is deeply committed to providing a personalised and memorable experience for every guest, ensuring they feel welcomed, cared for, and truly valued. This dedication to creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere resonated with me and aligned perfectly with my own values. The team’s hospitality and meticulous attention to detail and the course’s strategic layout and impeccable conditioning make playing and working at Antognolla Golf a true delight.
Q: What do you enjoy about your job?
A: A workday for me is dynamic and filled with exciting opportunities thanks to the global and creative nature of my role. One of the most thrilling aspects of my work is being at the forefront of original projects and initiatives, whether it’s exploring creative marketing strategies or implementing new guest experiences. I’ve particularly enjoyed working with the team to organise a special event for Antognolla Golf’s friends at the Ryder Cup, which, for the first time, is taking place in Italy. Bringing an experience like this one to life required lots of organisation, coordination, and creativity.
I also find immense gratification in working in a global context which allows me to interact with partners and clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and broadens my understanding of different markets. This international exposure provides me with unique perspectives on golf, its global history, and the different ways it is enjoyed around the world.
Q: What is your most memorable golf story?
A: More than just memorable, this is one of the funniest moments I have ever experienced in golf. For some people, the pressure of the game is simply too much to handle. They go into fits of rage, throwing clubs or cursing and swearing. One member of a previous club where I worked through his entire set of clubs into a water hazard after a terrible round. He then came to the clubhouse to ask the staff members to pull his bag out of the water. Upon receiving his bag, he removed his wallet, and then tossed the clubs back into the water!
Q: What’s coming up next for Antognolla Golf?
A: Antognolla Golf has an exciting period ahead in line with its dedication to excellence in the golfing and hospitality world. The renovation of the 12th century Antognolla castle and the construction of the Golf Clubhouse and the Antognolla resort and residences, which will come under the management of Six Senses, is the key highlight of this incredible project. Our ambitions and standards are as high as ever.
In terms of tournaments, Antognolla Golf will keep hosting the annual Antognolla Open, a thrilling competition that brings together golfers from around the world, select guests, and artists, with special and novel prizes each year. Furthermore, Antognolla Golf has forged strategic partnerships with renowned golfing organisations and brands. These collaborations aim to elevate the golfing experience at Antognolla, offering unparalleled opportunities for golf enthusiasts to engage with the sport and its professionals.
With an impressive tournament lineup, valuable partnerships, and accolades, Antognolla Golf continues to push the boundaries of golfing excellence. Golfers and golf enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the remarkable experiences that lie ahead at this exceptional golf destination.
Q: How can we join the world of Antognolla Golf?
A: Antognolla Golf welcomes golfers of all levels who share a passion for the sport and want to learn. For those who wish to elevate their game, we also offer four membership packages that come with exciting benefits. To name a few, membership offers priority booking for tee times and golf lessons, personalised golf lessons from PGA professionals, complimentary equipment storage, discounted rates on accommodation for themselves and their guests, special rates for hosting private events, and a whole lot more. Members also get access to exclusive events, tournaments, and networking opportunities. We also offer special access to affiliated private golf courses and partner resorts and are in the process of enhancing our benefits.
More information can be found on our Antognolla Golf website and we are always happy to guide potential members and answer their questions. You can come to our course anytime and join us for a glass of wine at La Boiola restaurant. I look forward to welcoming everyone on our course!