Dare to defy bombs and bullets for a round of golf at Kabul Golf Club?

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Embark on an Adventure at Kabul Golf Club, the World's Most Hazardous Golf Course

An Overview of Kabul Golf Club

The Ebb and Flow of Kabul Golf Club's History

Nestled deep in what's deemed the world's most dangerous territory, Kabul Golf Club now caters to adventurous golf enthusiasts seeking a thrill, eager to experience a golfing adventure in one of the most unique terrains.

Welcome to Kabul Golf Club, dubbed as the 'most dangerous' and 'least played' golf course in the world! An Arabic word adorns Kabul Golf Club's logo, translating to 'Peace.' But in reality, thoughts of Kabul and Afghanistan largely revolve around a nation engulfed in bombs and bullets, leading the fight against global terrorism threats.

Kabul Golf Club currently serves thrill-seeking golf tourists, offering them a chance to experience an adrenaline-pumping adventure alongside the sport of golf. Photo: Golf Digest Middle East

Embark on an Adventure at Kabul Golf Club, the World's Most Hazardous Golf Course

An Overview of Kabul Golf Club

Kabul Golf Club, a 9-hole golf course situated on sand and desert, approximately 10 km from downtown Kabul. It's not a place adorned with lush greenery like other famous golf courses around the world, but instead, it's a rugged mountainous terrain, somewhat harsh in nature.

Kabul Golf Club, a 9-hole golf course situated on sand and desert, approximately 10 km from downtown Kabul. Photo: NBC News

Not stopping there, the Clubhouse of this world's most hazardous golf course isn't the luxurious building many expect; instead, it's a dilapidated old structure, increasingly ravaged by numerous rocket attacks.

Brave the bombs and bullets to play golf at Kabul Golf Club. Are you up for it? Photo: Twitter

There are particularly stringent rules to abide by when playing golf at Kabul Golf Club, rules that all golfing tourists worldwide must remember, such as: 'Hold the ball, prepare, and place it within a 2-club-length distance but not allowed near the hole or to carry any firearms within the golf course.

There are rules set in stone when playing golf at Kabul Golf Club, rules that all golfing tourists worldwide must remember. Photo: Golf Digest Middle East

The Ebb and Flow of Kabul Golf Club's History

Against the tide of history, the sport of Golf was first introduced to Afghanistan by King Emir Hajibullah Khan in 1911, two years before the first American tennis player won the US Open.

Kabul Golf Club has witnessed many ups and downs throughout its history. Photo: Roger Arnold

As for Kabul Golf Club, it only has 9 holes, first opened in 1967 during the reign of Mohammed Zahir Shah. Over the years, in 1973, after the monarchy was overthrown, Kabul Golf Course was relocated to its current location.

Throughout the years, in 1973, after the overthrow of the monarchy, Kabul Golf Course was relocated to its current site. Photo: Roger Arnold

By 1993, Kabul Golf Club reopened its doors but closed down three years later when the Taliban regime banned all forms of sports. Furthermore, after the invasion of Afghanistan by the coalition forces in 2001, the Kabul course was utilized as a military training area for landmine clearance.

During the restoration process of this golfing area, the club had to remove 3 damaged Soviet tanks and endured multiple rocket launches. Unfortunately, the Soviet tanks had dug deep into the fairways.

By 1993, Kabul Golf Club reopened its doors. Photo: Roger Arnold

In the past, there was a time when the 8th Division of the Afghan Army was situated in a valley, and Kabul Golf Club was engulfed in a barrage of bullets at night as Mujahideen forces attacked from the west, facing off against Soviet and Afghan forces.

After enduring many upheavals, in 2004, Kabul Golf Club reopened accompanied by a report from the Christian Science Monitor stating: 'The mine-clearing process was funded by the US Military Fund, but the actual profits fell into the hands of a warlord, a commander of the Northern Alliance named Abdul Rashid'.

Following numerous tumultuous events, in 2004, Kabul Golf Club officially reopened its doors. Photo: Roger Arnold

Today, Abdul serves as the representative of Kabul Golf Club. Abdul's journey with golf began over 50 years ago when he was given a 5-iron club by a US Embassy at the age of 8. He started his career in Kabul as a caddie, swiftly rising to the rank of Caddie Master.

Subsequently, he was appointed as the club expert at Kabul Golf Club, but his current job includes management, serving staff, PR director cum dishwasher, ...

The grounds had to undergo landmine clearance before reopening. Photo: Twitter

Abdul can be considered the backbone of Kabul Golf Club. Currently, he's tirelessly fundraising and collecting anything from balls, tees, to gloves...

In a country where the main sports are football and cricket, like Afghanistan, the number of members at Kabul Golf Club is only about 120 people. The majority of members are men, but Abdul hopes to soon have more female members. Among them, there are about 15 to 20 members who are diplomats from different countries, including Australia, the United States, and Germany. However, when diplomats visit the golf course, they usually come with 1-2 bodyguards.

Kabul Golf Club still holds a unique allure, enticing adventurous golfers to pack their bags and hit the road. Photo: Roger Arnold

Despite being dubbed the world's most dangerous golf course, Kabul Golf Club still holds a distinct charm, motivating daring golfers to embark on the journey. What about you? Are you brave enough to play golf at Kabul Golf Club amidst bombs and bullets?

Lê Vân
According to Vietnam Sports Newspaper

Posted by: Huỳnh Phương Thùy

From dodging bullets to playing golf at Kabul Golf Club, are you up for the challenge?

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Frequently Asked Questions

What unique challenges do golfers face at Kabul Golf Club?

Golfers at Kabul Golf Club encounter a variety of unique challenges, primarily due to its location in a conflict-prone area. The course, situated in a rugged mountainous terrain, is not only physically demanding but also requires strict adherence to safety rules. Golfers must be cautious of their surroundings, as the area has a history of violence. Additionally, the dilapidated clubhouse and the lack of modern amenities add to the overall adventure of playing here.

How did Kabul Golf Club become known as the world's most dangerous golf course?

Kabul Golf Club earned its reputation as the world's most dangerous golf course due to its location in Afghanistan, a country historically marked by conflict and instability. The course has witnessed numerous upheavals, including rocket attacks and military presence, making it a thrilling yet hazardous place for golfers. This unique blend of sport and adventure has attracted a niche group of thrill-seeking golf enthusiasts.

What are the historical roots of Kabul Golf Club and its significance?

Kabul Golf Club has historical roots dating back to 1967 when it was established during the reign of Mohammed Zahir Shah. The sport was introduced to Afghanistan in 1911, and the club has since become a symbol of resilience amid adversity. Despite periods of closure and violence, the club has reopened several times, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Afghan people and their passion for golf in a challenging environment.

What precautions must golfers take when visiting Kabul Golf Club?

When visiting Kabul Golf Club, golfers must follow specific precautions to ensure their safety. They are required to keep the ball within a two-club-length distance, avoid bringing firearms onto the course, and remain vigilant of their surroundings due to the area's history of violence. These rules not only enhance safety but also contribute to a unique golfing experience amidst the extraordinary backdrop of Kabul.

How has the management of Kabul Golf Club adapted over the years?

Over the years, the management of Kabul Golf Club has adapted significantly to the challenges posed by its environment. Abdul, the current representative, has worked tirelessly to fundraise and gather necessary equipment while maintaining the club's operations. His journey from a caddie to a manager illustrates the club's commitment to promoting golf in Afghanistan, despite facing numerous hurdles and a limited membership base.