Renowned academies heading towards Dubai

Dubai: The Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy and David Leadbetter Golf Academy, two of the world's foremost training facilities within the IMG Academies, will be part of the Dubai Lifestyle City.

Adding a significant milestone to Dubai's success story, Dubai Lifestyle City LLC has announced that IMG Academies (IMGA), the world's premier multi-sport training facility, will open its first ever branch outside the US in Dubai Life Style City (DLC).

The famed Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy and the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, both part of the IMG Academies and among the foremost training facilities in the world, will set up shop in DLC and provide training to aspiring athletes from among DLC residents and others.

In addition, IMGA will also set up an International Performance Institute in Dubai Lifestyle City.

Ted Meekma, Senior Vice President IMG, Director IMG Academies, who is in Dubai to hold talks with Dubai Lifestyle City officials, said he was thrilled at the prospect of opening a branch in the Middle East.

"I have come to Dubai before and am a great admirer of the tremendous growth that Dubai has achieved over the years. I have no doubt that this is the best place for us to open a branch outside the Western Hemisphere," he added.

Hub of activities

"We want DLC to become the destination in Dubai and the region for serious tennis players and golfers to come, train and play. Our International Performance Institute programme will be a hub of healthy mind, body, and spirit development for all those who are committed to improving the quality of their lives. IMGA at DLC will also include swimming, basketball, volleyball, squash and table sports facilities and instructional programs," he explained.

Expressing his happiness at the unique partnership, Arif Rahman, Managing Director, Dubai Lifestyle City, said that the presence of IMG Academies would for the first time make available to aspiring athletes and 'sports parents' in the Middle East and the neighbouring regions the best training opportunities in golf and tennis and other sports.