The Road to Mallorca heads to France for the first of back-to-back events in the country, with the 19th edition of the Blot Play9 taking place at Golf Blue Green de Pléneuf Val André this week. Here’s everything you need to know…
Unbeatable location
Golf Bluegreen Pléneuf Val André is widely regarded as one the best and most scenic courses in Brittany, offering breath-taking views along the coastline. The course is set upon the cliffs and has a links-like style to it with deep rough lining the wide fairways. The Blot Play9 has been part of the HotelPlanner Tour schedule since 2007 and Golf Bluegreen Pléneuf Val André has consistently provided a formidable test for the players, especially when high coastal winds are present.
Situated in the Northwest region of Britanny, the town of Pléneuf-Val-Andre has established itself as a popular area of France for natives and tourists alike.
An event like no other
Blot Play9 has enhanced the spectator experience over recent years, with hospitality areas overlooking both the 12th and 18th greens and the addition of a Saturday night music set to create a festival style atmosphere in Pléneuf. This year’s concert includes DJ sets from local artists such as Kavinsky, Petit Biscuit, Banbz, Sweet Galley and Queen Amann.
Past Champions
With many notable winners over the years, Blot Play9 has established itself as one of the highlights on the HotelPlanner Tour schedule. England’s Eddie Pepperell announced his arrival as a potential star of the future at Golf Blue Green de Pléneuf Val André in 2012 after he defeated Denmark’s Jeppe Huldahl on the first play-off hole to secure his maiden professional victory.
Frenchmen Benjamin Herbert and Julien Brun secured memorable victories on home turf, with the latter ending his nine-year wait for his second HotelPlanner Tour triumph in 2021.
A year later, England’s Alfie Plant secured his second HotelPlanner Tour victory, while fellow countryman John Parry triumphed in 2024 on his way to earning a DP World Tour card after finishing second on the Road to Mallorca Rankings.
Last year’s winner, James Morrison also earned promotion last term with his win in Pléneuf propelling him up the Rankings.
Signature hole
Golf Blue Green de Pléneuf Val André’s signature hole is the jaw-dropping par five 11th. The hole measures 523 yards from the back tee, which is positioned on an overhanging cliff edge and offers sensational sea views. The wide fairway encourages a positive tee shot and is parallel to the English Channel, however players must be wary of over shaping the ball towards the beach, especially when the wind is up. A good tee shot will give the players an opportunity to attack the well defended green in two.
