As part of a new winter series called 'Let's Hear From', the EGA will give the floor to individuals in impactful roles from across the world of amateur golf.
Earlier this month, the EGA sat down with Vincent Paris, General Manager of Cabot Bordeaux.
Let’s hear about Vincent’s extensive experience managing a leading golf resort for 20 years. What has changed in his role during that time? How has the recent acquisition by the Cabot group changed Vincent’s perspectives? And what role do EGA Championship play in the overall strategy?
The full written interview follows below:
Vincent, first of all, thank you very much for taking the time for this interview! Would you mind starting by telling us a little bit about your professional history within golf?
I started my professional career in golf 25 years ago in the Pays Basque - "my home country" - by managing a golf course in Biarritz. I have been the general manager of Golf du Médoc, recently rebranded as Cabot Bordeaux, for the past 20 years.
How would you describe your overall role at Cabot Bordeaux? And what are its biggest challenges?
Like any General Manager of a golf resort, my role is multifaceted!
First of all, we are currently in a transition period following the recent acquisition by the Cabot Group, and we are working on the rebranding and the implementation of a global strategy for Cabot Bordeaux.
My role is to oversee the development of Cabot Bordeaux, which includes operations, investments, finances, marketing, and agronomy.
The biggest challenge is to elevate the overall quality of the resort to meet the expectations of North American Cabot clients while maintaining a national and local offering, which remains a significant part of our business.
Congratulations on completing 20 years at the head of the resort! How has your role developed or changed in this time?
It has evolved tremendously, I started with a “traditional” golf club comprising two courses and a clubhouse. Over the years, we transformed the property into a golf resort with the construction of a hotel, a spa, and the addition of a training center to develop golf coaching programs.
Our clientele has gradually expanded internationally, and today, Cabot Bordeaux is considered one of the top golf resorts in Continental Europe.
What has been your most memorable or rewarding experience as General Manager so far?
Definitely the fact that such a prestigious group like Cabot took an interest in Golf du Médoc and wanted to add our property to their portfolio of prestigious resorts. This is the result of years of hard work by our teams.
Additionally, I had the opportunity to lead the acquisition process, which was an incredibly enriching experience.
The resort has recently joined the Cabot Collection, renowned for world-class golf destinations. What sets it apart?
There are many world-class golf resorts, but that alone is not what sets Cabot apart.
Cabot distinguishes itself by offering golfers a deep, magical experience that they will remember for years to come.
The resort has been a committed host to EGA and French championships for many years, including hosting flagship events such as the European Amateur Championship, as well as the upcoming 50th edition of the European Men’s Club Trophy. How do elite-level golf events fit into the resort’s strategy, and to what extent can they benefit a resort such as Cabot Bordeaux?
Hosting major amateur and professional tournaments is in Cabot Bordeaux’s DNA, and this must continue.
Sustainability is an increasingly important topic in the world of golf. How is Cabot Bordeaux integrating eco-friendly practices in course maintenance and its overall operations?
We launched a large-scale CSR program several years ago. The golf course benefits from a modern irrigation system that helps limit water consumption and ensures precise watering in the right places and in the right amounts.
At the same time, as required by French law, we are restricting the use of chemical products in favor of larger-scale mechanical maintenance operations.
On the hospitality side, we were one of the first hotels to implement a zero-plastic policy, offset our clients' carbon footprint, combat food waste, and establish a highly selective waste sorting system.
Finally, we have obtained the Biodiversity label for the golf course and the ‘Green Key’ certification for our hotel.
Looking ahead, what’s next for Cabot Bordeaux? Are there any upcoming developments or enhancements that will further elevate the golfer’s experience?
We have launched an improvement program for our courses to further enhance the golfing experience. This includes a complete renovation of the bunkers, extensive drainage and aeration/sanding work on the fairways, and the refurbishment of certain teeing areas.
Additionally, we are carrying out a magnificent landscaping program, starting from the entrance of the resort.
What trends are you seeing in the luxury golf travel market, and how do you anticipate golfers’ expectations evolving in the coming years?
In the coming years, the focus will be primarily on the customer experience.
A stunning golf course and a beautiful hotel are no longer enough. We must develop the experience by enhancing the overall appeal of the destination, and incorporating a comprehensive tourism offering.
If you could give one piece of advice to new or aspiring golf club general managers, what would it be?
Simply, be passionate.
