Treat awaits pros as Palmer's unique vision takes shape at K-Club

THE PRIDE and sense of expectation in the two men was palpable as they cast their gaze over terrain that up to a couple of years ago was dull pasture land but is now rapidly developing into one of Ireland's great golf courses.

It may not open until the end of next year but the new Arnold Palmer-designed course at the K-Club is progressing so nicely, it has already been pencilled in as the venue for the 2004 Smurfit European Open. It's not beyond the bounds of possibility that it will also house the Ryder Cup two years later.

The golf course is costing in the region of 10m the three storey clubhouse on which work will commence early next year will be considerably more expensive. And when everything is completed, the K-Club will be one of the world's foremost golfing resorts.