The history of Sri Lanka’s golf runs all the way to the Dutch rule of Sri Lanka in the 17th century, making it the oldest modern sport played in Sri Lanka.
It is well established that the Dutch word “Kolf” refers to a stick shaped to hit Kolf balls in a game which was later to become the National Sport of Scotland as Golf, the Sri Lanka golf website defines.
Although it was considered a luxury sport in Sri Lanka, golf is popular to a certain extent among certain social groups in the country, as well as among tourists.
Giving the sport a boost, the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) inaugurated its latest international-standard golf course, the Eagles’ Citadel Golf Course, at SLAF Station Sigiriya on 17 January, the Air Force website confirms.
The grand opening was attended by distinguished guests, including the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), and the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa.
Nestled in the scenic backdrop of Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic tourist destinations, the Eagles’ Citadel Golf Course is designed to attract local and international visitors.
Featuring unique elements such as Island T and Island Bay, the course combines aesthetic beauty with a challenging golfing experience.
This marks the fourth international-standard golf course under SLAF’s management, joining facilities in Trincomalee, Anuradhapura, and Koggala.
In addition to the top-tier course design, the Sigiriya location offers a range of amenities, including high-quality sports equipment, accommodations, and dining services.
The launch of this facility aligns with SLAF’s broader mission to support national economic development by promoting recreational sports tourism.
The addition of Eagles’ Citadel to Sigiriya’s rich cultural and natural appeal is expected to bolster the region’s status as a must-visit destination for tourists worldwide.
Sri Lanka Air Force officials emphasized the role of such projects in diversifying the nation’s tourism offerings, fostering economic growth, and showcasing Sri Lanka as a prime location for leisure and sports activities.
(Images: Sri Lanka Air Force official website)
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