Tee Times Present at IAGTO European Convention: Connecting, Growing, Evolving

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The IAGTO European Convention (IEC) is back. From May 19 to 21, the spotlight will shine on Gran Canaria, and the golf travel community will come together again. With more than 30 years delivering top-tier golf experiences in Portugal, Spain, and other destinations, Tee Times Golf Holidays is proud to be part of this essential industry event as an IAGTO member.

This year’s IEC will be held at ExpoMeloneras — a world-class venue in the heart of Gran Canaria’s hospitality district.

For us, the IEC is much more than just a business convention. It’s a place to reconnect with long-time friends, strengthen trusted partnerships, and explore fresh opportunities. Carlos Ferreira, Founder & CEO, said: “IEC isn’t just a schedule full of meetings — it’s a chance to reconnect with partners who’ve been part of our journey for years. In this industry, relationships matter, and meeting face-to-face helps keep that trust strong.”

From Algarve to the World

Over three decades, Tee Times has grown from a local expert in the Algarve into a leading DMC serving golfers across Europe and other destinations. Our secret? A deep love for the game, personalised attention, and a constant drive to innovate, offering the best golf package for unforgettable golf holidays.

“Being at IEC is essential for us,” Ferreira adds. “It’s about reinforcing what we’ve built and staying open to new opportunities as a DMC — finding fresh connections with suppliers and buyers who share our passion for golf and quality service.”

Jorge Diogo, our Director of Sales & Marketing, agrees: “There’s nothing quite like a real conversation. Events like this let you connect with long-time partners and discover new opportunities.” And he continues: “We’re excited to be part of the IAGTO European Convention because it’s the perfect stage to show what we do at Tee Times. Meeting new buyers and suppliers helps us stay ahead and improve the experience we offer golf travellers.”

We look forward to another memorable edition of the IAGTO European Convention and continuing our mission of bringing golfers closer to the best courses, cultures, and connections across Portugal, Spain and some of the best world golf destinations.

Fontanals Golf Club 2025 – Charmasson Claims Breakout Win

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The Challenge de España 2025 wrapped up on May 11 at the scenic Fontanals Golf Club in Girona, and it delivered exactly what golf fans hoped for: tight competition, a picturesque setting, and a new champion on the rise. Clément Charmasson of France secured his first Challenge Tour title, edging out a strong international field and marking a career-defining moment on the Road to Mallorca.

Held in the early heart of the European golf season, this year’s Challenge de España drew heightened attention from players, fans, and media alike, in part thanks to the debut of Fontanals Golf Club as host. The tournament not only highlighted emerging talent but also showcased Spain’s ability to stage world-class events that blend athletic drama with unforgettable scenery. For Charmasson and others on the Challenge Tour, Girona was far more than a stop on the calendar, it was a high-stakes opportunity to change the trajectory of their careers.

This tournament is part of the Challenge Tour, Europe’s second-tier professional golf circuit. For many players, it’s the gateway to the DP World Tour, and for Charmasson, it now represents a major step forward.

A Career Milestone for Clément Charmasson

Charmasson’s performance in Girona was as composed as it was compelling. Finishing atop a packed leaderboard, he took home the winner’s share of €48,000, drawn from a €300,000 total prize fund. The win not only boosts his confidence but also significantly improves his position in the season rankings, putting him in strong contention for a DP World Tour card later this year.

The Challenge Tour has been a proving ground for some of Europe’s most successful golfers, think Brooks Koepka, Tommy Fleetwood, and Victor Perez, and Charmasson’s name now joins the list of potential future stars.

Fontanals Golf Club Shines on Tour Debut

Hosting the event for the first time, Fontanals Golf Club offered up a well-balanced test for the field. Nestled in the Catalan Pyrenees, the course provided strategic challenges, fast greens, and unforgettable mountain backdrops, a striking contrast to some of the flatter, sun-baked layouts elsewhere on tour.

The successful staging of the tournament also reinforced Girona’s rising profile as a competitive golf destination in Spain. It’s a region that blends natural beauty with high-level golf, and its presence on the Challenge Tour calendar helps solidify its status.

The Road to Mallorca Continues

As part of the Road to Mallorca, the Challenge de España plays a critical role in the season-long race for promotion to the DP World Tour. Points earned here contribute to players’ overall standings, with only the top 20 advancing at the season’s end.

For Charmasson, this victory could be the beginning of a breakthrough season. For the rest of the field, it’s a reminder of how slim the margins are, and how every week counts.

Spain’s Enduring Golf Legacy

For those inspired to follow in Charmasson’s footsteps or simply enjoy Spain’s rich golf offering, take a look at our Costa del Sol Stay and Play Packages. They combine top-tier golf with exceptional accommodation on the sun-drenched southern coast.

And for seamless travel arrangements throughout Spain, our Car Hire and Transfers ensure a stress-free experience from airport to tee box.

Events like the Challenge de España reinforce Spain’s reputation not just as a premier holiday destination, but as a serious stage for competitive golf. With world-class courses, year-round playability, and a growing calendar of international events, the country continues to support the game at all levels, from grassroots to elite.

For golf fans and players alike, tournaments like this offer a glimpse into the future of the sport, and perhaps the next global star.

Oporto Mid-Amateur Golf Tournament 2025

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The 3rd tournament of Portugal’s Mid-Amateur & Senior Golf Circuit 2025 wrapped up this past weekend at the historic Oporto Golf Club (Par 71) in Espinho, showcasing standout performances from both rising and seasoned players. Among the winners were Pedro Sá Lima, Mark Mance, and Marta Lampreia, all of whom topped their respective categories with grit and consistency.

If you’re planning a golf visit to the Porto area, consider exploring our Porto Golf Courses, home to some of the most historic and scenic layouts in Portugal. To make the most of your trip, our Car Hire and Transfers ensure smooth, convenient access to the fairways and beyond.

Known for its rich legacy, Oporto Golf Club is the oldest golf club in Portugal and one of the oldest in continental Europe, a fitting backdrop for a tournament that celebrates both competitive spirit and the timeless appeal of the game. The Mid-Amateur & Senior Circuit provides an essential space for players outside the professional sphere to continue competing at a high level, maintaining the camaraderie, skill, and mental sharpness that define the sport.

With over 70 participants competing across various divisions, the tournament reflected the strength of Portugal’s golfing community and the depth of talent at the amateur level. From tense playoffs to steady comebacks, the weekend offered no shortage of compelling golf.

 

Sá Lima and Mance Dominate the Men’s Field

Representing Vale Pisão, Pedro Sá Lima shot a second-round 72, the lowest round of the day, to secure the gross victory by four strokes. With a total of 147 (+5) over two rounds, he edged out Francisco Silva (Quinta do Perú) and Mark Mance (Oitavos), both finishing at 151 (+9).

Mark Mance, who had already won gross and senior honours at the season opener at Quinta do Vale, returned to form by clinching the Senior Men’s title, narrowly ahead of Miguel Lourenço (ACP Golfe).

Lourenço led after round one with a 74, but a second-round 78 left him tied for fourth with José Pedro Patacão (Vale Pisão) at 152 (+10).

Marta Lampreia Seals Victory in Sudden Death

In the women’s competition, Marta Lampreia (Quinta do Perú) delivered a clutch performance. Tied at 166 (+24) with Diana Pacheco (Paredes) after two rounds (80–86 and 81–85 respectively), she secured the win on the first sudden-death playoff hole, the par-5 18th, with a birdie.

It was a hard-fought victory over Pacheco and Sofia Paiva (Estoril), who had won the first two tournaments of the circuit and finished just one shot out of the playoff at 167 (+25).

Lampreia’s win gave her the double: both gross and senior titles in the women’s division.

Portugal’s Mid-Amateur Golf Scene Grows in Strength

The Mid-Amateur & Senior Circuit is proving to be a valuable platform for competitive golf beyond the junior and elite amateur ranks. Events like this, staged at legacy venues such as Oporto Golf Club, help nurture talent, maintain competitive spirit, and spotlight Portugal’s deep pool of golfing enthusiasts.

The next tournament in the series is set for 27–28 September at Palmares Ocean Living & Golf Resort.