Mangaluru: The Pilikula Golf Club, the only golf course in the district, is set to reopen after a major renovation that has transformed it into an illuminated night golf facility. With the upgrade, golfers will be able to tee off after sunset and complete a full 18-hole round under floodlights, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the region. The refurbished course will be formally inaugurated on January 10, followed by an open golf tournament scheduled for January 10 and 11.
Major upgrade to night golf facility
The renovation has elevated the Pilikula Golf Club into a modern sporting venue capable of hosting night-time play. The newly installed floodlighting system enables uninterrupted play even after dusk, offering golfers greater flexibility and extending playing hours. Club officials said the development places Pilikula among a small number of golf courses in the country equipped for full-scale night golf.
Addressing reporters on Wednesday, club captain Manoj Shetty said the transformation was part of a long-term vision to modernise the facility and make golf more accessible to a wider section of people. “The introduction of a floodlit 18-hole course is a major step forward for the club. It allows working professionals and enthusiasts to play after regular hours,” he said.
Evolution of the golf course
The Pilikula Golf Club was established in 1999 and has steadily evolved over the years. Manoj Shetty recalled that the course initially functioned as a brown course, relying largely on natural terrain and limited landscaping.
“In 2009, the club underwent its first major transformation when it was converted from a brown course into a green course. This significantly improved playing conditions and brought the course closer to professional standards,” he said.
The most recent upgrade was completed in 2024, when the club expanded from a nine-hole layout to a full 18-hole course. Shetty said the course has now been categorised as an A+ facility, reflecting improvements in turf quality, layout design, drainage and overall infrastructure.
Inauguration and open tournament
The reopening of the refurbished course will be marked by an official inauguration on January 10. The event is expected to draw golf enthusiasts, sports administrators and invited guests.
Following the inauguration, the club will host an open golf tournament on January 10 and 11. The tournament will give players an opportunity to experience the upgraded course and its night golf facilities. Organisers said the event is expected to attract participants from across the region, adding momentum to the growing golfing culture.
Focus on nurturing young talent
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the Pilikula Golf Club is placing strong emphasis on talent development. Manoj Shetty announced plans to launch a dedicated golf academy aimed at training youngsters and newcomers interested in the sport.
The academy will be sponsored by philanthropist Michael D’Souza and is expected to begin operations soon. According to Shetty, the initiative is intended to make golf more inclusive and accessible, particularly for young athletes who may not otherwise have exposure to the sport.
“The academy will focus on identifying and nurturing talent at an early stage. We want to create a pathway for young players to take up golf seriously, whether as a competitive sport or a lifelong recreational activity,” he said.
Hosting a national-level milestone event
One of the most notable announcements made by the club was its plan to host India’s first-ever floodlit pro-am golf tournament on January 31. The event is expected to bring together professional golfers and amateur players in a unique night-time competitive format.
Club officials described the pro-am tournament as a landmark event not only for Pilikula Golf Club but also for Indian golf. The floodlit format is expected to add a new dimension to the game, offering spectators and players a distinctive experience.
Boost to sports and tourism
The reopening of the Pilikula Golf Club as a night golf facility is also expected to contribute to sports tourism. With enhanced infrastructure and high-profile events, the club aims to attract golfers from other districts and states.
Officials believe that the upgraded course will complement existing recreational and tourism facilities in the Pilikula complex, strengthening its position as a multi-sport and leisure destination.
Conclusion
The reopening of the Pilikula Golf Club marks a significant chapter in the development of golf in the district. With its transition into a floodlit 18-hole, A+ category course, the club is poised to host major tournaments, nurture young talent through its upcoming academy, and introduce innovative formats such as night golf. As the facility opens its doors once again, it signals renewed ambition to place the region firmly on India’s golfing map.