Cameron Powell
Cameron Powell is a golf course designer, based in the UK.
Background
Originally formed in 1987, in partnership with PGA Golf Professional Bob Cameron (1952–2009), Chris Powell (1949–present) now operates independently under the Cameron Powell appellation. Chris originally qualified as an associate of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 1972. He was introduced to golf course design in 1981 whilst managing the company of Cotton Pennink Lawrie, the internationally renowned golf course architects, who designed over 300 golf courses in more than 30 countries.
Furnas Golf Course, San Miguel, Azores
Cameron Powell is probably best known for remodelling and extending Furnas Golf Course on the island of San Miguel in the Azores. The original 9 hole course was designed in 1939 by Mackenzie Ross, designer of the Ailsa course at Turnberry. The upgraded and extended course was re-opened in 1990 and is rated by the Pocket Guide to Golf Courses as the joint best golf course in the whole of Spain and Portugal. Coincidentally, the designer of their other joint best rated course - Vilamoura Old Course - was Frank Pennink, the senior partner in Cotton Pennink Lawrie.
Batalha Golf Course, San Miguel, Azores
Cameron Powell designed the 27 hole Batalha Golf Course, also on the island of San Miguel in the Azores, 10 minutes from the capital, Ponta Delgada, and 30 minutes from Furnas. The course, which opened in 1997, has a dramatic backdrop of surrounding hills and spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean (with occasional glimpses of whales and dolphins). It has hosted PGA EuroPro Tour and PGA European Seniors Tour events.
Campo de Golf Vidago Palace, Vidago, Portugal
Cameron Powell have also remodelled and extended another Mackenzie Ross golf course, at the Vidago Palace hotel in Vidago, Northern Portugal. The original short course was completed in 1936. The 9 original holes have now been remodelled and upgraded to form 6 extended holes, using existing tee and green positions. There are 12 completely new holes, constructed on adjoining land. The new course is due to open in June 2010 as part of the refurbished 5 star Vidago Palace hotel, spa & golf resort.